What comes to your mind when we think of Goa? A plan that takes forever to be made and once we are there, we do not want to step away from the beach.?
However, for the ones who are bored of going to the same beaches again and again, here is a list of places that are a must-see for anyone who wants to actually explore the coastal state. These places offer a great insight into the natural beauty and history of Goa, and should be missed the next time you go on a vacation.
Earlier known as Mollem Game Sanctuary, this place was officially named as a Wildlife sanctuary in 1969. The existence of this sanctuary proves that Goa is much more than just beaches. Apart from offering an insight into the coastal wildlife, this sanctuary is best known for trekking and hiking trails.?
If lazily lying down on the beach and sipping on a beer isn’t your thing and adventure is what you seek, you can take a backwater cruise through dense mangrove trees and marsh at this canal. You also have the opportunity to spot lazy crocodiles soaking in some sun on the banks.?
Savoi Spice Gardens offers people the chance to experience organic heaven that has everything from rare herbs to colourful flora. The gardens are also home to very unique-looking plants and are a must-see for nature lovers.?
This lake is proof that nature works in mysterious but mesmerising ways. Due to the presence of natural gas like methane under the lake, it provides a continuous bubbling sensation which is extremely beautiful to watch.
Snugly located in the Western Ghats along the Goa-Karnataka-Maharashtra border, Chorla ghat is heaven made up of lush valleys and tropical jungles. Adventure-lovers who want to stay away from the hustle-bustle of a crowded place should definitely visit this place. You can choose to go bird watching, trekking or just enjoy the beauties of nature.?
Hidden in lush tropical jungles, this waterfall is one of the most beautiful things Goa has to offer. Pearl-white water falls down hard sturdy boulders and since the waterfall is tucked away in lush jungles, you can expect complete privacy.
A beautiful place for bird-watching enthusiasts, this is sanctuary is located on the island of Chorao. You can experience migratory birds here with Siberian ones being the most common during the winter season.?
You don’t need other people around you to enjoy your time at the beach. Made up of milky-white sand, eye-catching beach shacks, Querim Beach offers you the chance to witness the Tiracol River merging with the Arabian Sea which is a breathtaking natural phenomenon.?
Known for its Buddhist history, Rivona Cave is home to laterite rocks where apparently monks carried out their meditations there. You can see several beautiful Buddhist sculptures and paintings inside the cave.?
Also known as ‘Tiger Beach’, this is a beautiful tiny beach which offers absolute isolation since there are no houses in that area, except just one cabin. Since it doesn’t get a lot of visitors, you can enjoy your privacy along with the view.?
Also known as one of the cleanest beaches in Goa, it is the hatching site for the endangered Olive Ridley turtle. With glistening water and white sand, this beach is a blessing for someone who loves coastal areas.?
Imagine having a beach where you can spot dolphins, crabs and several varieties of butterflies; Butterfly Beach offers exactly that. This is the perfect spot for people who are craving isolation and cleanliness on a holiday.?
The fort is home to ruins and old canons which were built by the Portuguese back in the day when they ruled Goa. You can experience the breathtaking Cabo de Rama beach below the fort which is also a great place for picnics.
Home to over 133 species of butterflies, this park was established with the sole purpose of conserving them. It offers you a mesmerising view of at least 25 species on a regular day and it’s a blessing for nature lovers.
You can spot migratory birds, moorhens, harriers, kingfishers and several other bird species in and around this lake. It also provides water for irrigation for paddy fields that are spread out across the area.?
Asia's only museum which is home to a collection of things which show the emergence of Christianity in the state. You can experience several paintings, sculptures, textiles ivory and furniture. This museums heavily reminds you of the Portuguese era in Goa and is a blessing for those who want to click pictures since photography is permitted inside the building.
It offers you knowledge about the colonial times in Goa when it was ruled by the Portuguese. It is home to several Persian and Arabic weapons which were used by the Portuguese army and shows the extent of how prominent the foreigners were in the state.?
Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments!