Must visit Islands in Goa

The state of Goa, which is renowned as the essential stop for beach lovers, provides a wide range of amenities to its visitors. But because it has mild weather all year long, tourists tend to always be in high demand for this little slice of heaven. You must visit some of the best islands in Goa if you want to escape the crowds and take in some quiet time while you're on vacation. Therefore, I am here to help you out and make your trip to Goa memorable.

Ø Divar Island

The Divar Island in Goa is the ideal place for you to spend some quality time in the presence of nature while on vacation. This stunning location is one of Goa's most well-known islands. This small area, which is only 8 miles from Old Goa, is dotted with charming homes that beautifully display the elegance of traditional Portuguese architecture. You can enjoy the traditional Goan culture by visiting the local churches, in addition to savouring the sensual view of this location.

How To Reach?

A ferry is your only option for getting to Divar Island's coast. You will need to take a boat from Old Goa to get to the island's southernmost point. You must take a ferry from Naroa, though, if you want to travel to the island's eastern region.

Things To Do?

The Bonderam Festival is Divar Island's most well-known event. The locals knock down each other's flags during the Bonderam celebrations in remembrance of an ancestor's old custom. The attractive fusion of Portuguese and Indian architectural styles will mesmerise you. The island and the Mandovi River are fully visible from a hilltop church. There isn't a fancy restaurant, but there are a few little snack bars where you can sip an ice-cold beer or a cup of chai. Two substantial Portuguese homes are available for short-term rental from their owners. Spend a day or two on Divar Island if you want to escape the busy cities.

Ø Chorao Island

Chorao Island is one of the largest islands in the state and is located just five kilometres from the capital of the tourist paradise. This tiny but beautiful isle is well known among those who enjoy the outdoors because it displays an uncanny sense of old-world charm and has charming pathways. Along with exploring Mother Nature, you can also see magnificent buildings that beautifully display the richness of Portuguese culture over the course of centuries. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, a well-known attraction on Chorao Island that is home to a large number of bird species, is the island's main draw. Thus, this location is among the best islands in Goa if you are an avid birdwatcher.

How To Reach?

There is a boat ride between Panaji and Chorao Island from Ribandar, which is approximately four miles away.

Things to do?

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is the main attraction. An estimated 400 migratory and Indian birds can be found on the island. A few old Portuguese homes, some of which are vacant, can be found while exploring the island. In the village, there is a small church. The ancient traditions and customs that people still adhere to on the isolated island will astound you. Reis Magos Fort and the mouth of the Mandovi River should not be missed while returning along the jetty.

Ø Butterfly Island

Butterfly Island, one of Goa's most well-known islands, is situated a little bit to the south of the picturesque Palolem beach. This location can make your trip memorable in some way, whether it is through engaging in water activities or spending time with your loved one. Since the beach is located in a far-off area from the mainland, few people typically visit it. Butterfly Beach would therefore be your best option if you want to spend some time away from the busy crowds of Goa.

How To Reach?

By boat, it's simple to get to Butterfly Island. Many tour packages include Butterfly Island in the itinerary. You can easily catch a boat to the island from Palolem or Agonda beaches. It is accessible by road from Panjim and Margao at distances of 44 and 80 kilometres, respectively. This island, which is semi-circular in shape, is so serene and lovely that the serenity drives you insane. I adore this location and would personally advise friends travelling to Goa to visit it.

Things to do?

Since dolphins enjoy congregating in such pristine and remote areas, you can see dolphins easily from this location. It's quite an accomplishment to see the sunset from the island. Your memory of the wonderful experience will last a lifetime. In the water, you can swim and have fun. The most common activity there is canoeing. Rock climbing and trekking are also available here. Get a tan while sunbathing and have no regrets whatsoever.

Ø Sao Jacinto Island

One of the undiscovered islands of Goa is Sao Jacinto Island, which is regarded as one of the smallest islands in South Goa. Similar to Butterfly Island, this one is situated quite a distance from the mainland. Sao Jacinto Island thus remains somewhat uncrowded throughout the year, in contrast to the other isles in Goa. So be sure to stop by here at least once during your time in Goa if you want to spend some time alone wandering through the dense forests.

How To Reach?

This island is easily accessible; it is only 22 km from Panjim and 7 km from Bogmalo beach. The island and the NH-17 Vasco-Panaji coastal highway is connected by a bridge. A jetty allows you to access the island as well.

Things to do?

The picturesque surroundings are the island's next best feature after the church, which is its main draw. The best location to find comfort is here. Vasco-da-gama is not too far away, but the area is still very quiet compared to the city. You can wander the island, taking in its beauty and some of the old Portuguese homes. To discover new things, all you need to do is stroll through the village streets. Walking around Sao Jacinto Island, I came across a deserted beach. Simply take a seat, put your feet in the water, and let your worries drift away.

Ø Conco Island

The Conco Isle, also known as the "Monkey Island," is one of the most popular destinations in the Pearl of the Orient. This picturesque island, which has a five-acre expanse of lush greenery, is not far from the well-known Palolem Beach. So, by planning a picnic there, you can not only enjoy the stunning surroundings of the location but also make some wonderful, long-lasting memories with your family.

How To Reach?

Conco Island, also known as Monkey Island, is a popular tourist destination for visitors from abroad. It is situated in the Canacona region, at the bay of Palolem Beach. You can only see the Arabian Sea around you when you are on this island. There are numerous boats that will take you to Monkey Island from Palolem beach. The monkeys that inhabit the island forests are the source of the name. An additional chance to see some gleaming dolphins in the Arabian Sea is on the boat ride from Palolem Beach.

Things to do?

On the island, you can pass the day sipping chilled beer and eating a tasty meal. On the beach, you can also have fun. It's a lovely location for beach lovers. You can go to Agonda or Palolem beaches if you'd like to engage in exciting water sports like scuba diving or snorkelling. You can take as many pictures as you want without any hassle. You can easily swim for a while during a low tide. If you're fortunate, you might have the opportunity to see some dolphins playing in the pristine Arabian Sea.

Got Guts?? Do Bungee Jumping in Goa

To attract a large number of travelers, the Goa Tourist Development Corporation has come up with a thrilling adventure, that is, Bungee Jumping at the Mayem Lake. By collaborating with Jumpin Heights, which is a bungee-jumping company in India, the safety measures are well taken care of.

This activity can be enjoyed at the Mayem Lake in North Goa, where you will be leaped from an altitude of 55 meters above the edge of the lake. This is as high as a 15-floor building and a perfect sport for adventure lovers. The Jumpin Heights crew is well-trained to ensure the safety of the jumpers. This adventure is open to children older than 15 and adults under 40. You will not be permitted to take the jump, in case you are suffering from certain medical problems like epilepsy, osteoporosis or any other ailment, which can be a barrier.

What is the cost?

The jump is absolutely worth the price, that is INR 4,200 per head inclusive of taxes. It takes around 2 to 5 minutes to do this activity. Before you plan to jump, inform the team about your health conditions.

Best time to do Bungee Jumping in Goa

Bungee Jumping run whole year in Goa. Still, after October till May is the best time for Bungee Jumping. This sport doesn’t have a specific reason as you can do it at any time of the year. Just don’t choose a rainy day as the activity is shut down at that time to ensure the safety of the jumpers.

Things to keep in mind before planning to jump

If you are an adventure junkie, bungee jumpee is a sport for you. But, make sure that, you have checked the pre-requisites of the sport. Take up the sport only if you are physically fit, otherwise it could pose severe risks. This sport should be avoided, if you are suffering from low or high blood pressure, heart problems, anxiety, asthma, or have any recent fractures. Evidently, pregnant women are also not allowed from being a part of this activity as this can be a risk for them. Before experiencing Bungee Jumping, you will have to sign a consent. So, make sure to inform about your ailments to the instructors, as they can assist you the best.

How to do the bookings?

To keep away the last-minute hassle, online booking is the new trend. Seemingly, there are several online and offline platforms, where the bookings could be done. To avoid the long queues on the day of the jump, make sure that you make an advance booking. The payment can be made using internet banking, debit cards, or even cash. As different companies offer different prices, will suggest you to choose the best package for yourself.

What to wear for jump?

Wearing comfortable clothes is always advisable, be it bungee jumping in Goa or any other sports. You can wear a comfortable T-Shirt along with pants or shorts, according to your preference. Keep in mind that, you can wear comfortable footwear or you can witness the sport barefoot if you wish. The footwear you wear should not be loose, but rather secure and should give you a good grip. You should avoid wearing heels.

Location Details

Location: Mayem Lake, Bicholim Taluka, North Goa District, Goa, 403504

Operating Hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 am (Closed on Tuesday)

How to reach the jumping point: It’s an easy task to reach the jumping point. It is just 49 minutes journey from Panjim. Even, the local transport and private taxis are readily available and affordable.

Isolated Staycations in Goa

Goa is a state with lot of natural beauty, and there are so many stay options available in the sunshine state. There are times when all you want is a quiet place to spend some quality time, far away from home, amidst nature. Most of us prefer to vacation in Isolated locations, when the pandemic hovering around. There are hundreds of resorts in Goa, which resort to eco-friendly practices and have a harmonious relationship with nature. Here's are some of the best eco-friendly resorts to visit in Goa.

1. Wildernest Nature Resort, North Goa

This is one of the most beautiful resorts in Goa, and is very popular among families, couples and group of friends who want to relax, rewind and rejuvenate themselves. Wildernest is a resort with an experience beyond words. The resort is located deep in the Swapnagandha Valley in the Sahyadris, overlooking twin Vazra Falls and offers panoramic views of Goa. This resort offers a variety of accommodation options, from forest view, valley view, waterfall view, and family size.

Cost: Approximately INR 7,500/night onwards

Website: https://www.wildernest-goa.com/

2. Bhakti Kutir, South Goa

On a list of eco-friendly resorts, Bhakti Kutir should not be missed. This resort is nestled in a tropical forest on a two-acre property near Palolem Beach (South Goa). This resort has long been a tourist haven in the Canacona area, being one of the oldest and most established. The most beautiful huts to stay in this resort are, the single-storeyed or double-storeyed bamboo and wood huts (Cabana style). You don’t have to worry about the bookings as the resort offers a total of 22 similar cottages.

Cost: Approximately INR 1,700/night

Website: http://www.bhaktikutir.com/

3.   Nature’s Nest, South Goa

Nature’s Nest is a eco-friendly resort located in the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats in Goa. They have a total of 8 rooms with ample space in the property, as the cottages are placed in a 4.5-acre mixed plantation. They have in-house restaurant, The Kokum Tree, which serves authentic Goan cuisine. They also have a naturally-recharged spring pool (operational from mid-October to mid-May, in non-rainy days) and a unique bubble spring within the property. You would be able to experience various nature and wildlife activities with their naturalists.   

Cost: Approximately INR 3,000/night

Website: http://www.naturenestgoa.com/

4.   The Palm Tree, South Goa

Ayurvedic heritage resort, The Palm Tree, offers a quiet, peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is located in Canacona, South Goa and is surrounded by coconut trees. For a truly authentic Goan experience, this is the perfect place. All the cottages here are equally beautiful.

Cost: Approximately INR 1,700/room

Website: http://www.thepalmtreesgoa.com/

5. Khaama Kethna Ecological Village, South Goa

The eco-resort, Khaama Kethna Ecological Village, is located in a forest between Palolem and Uganda in South Goa. This resort was founded by a German couple in 2005, with the aim of offering an alternative way to life by embracing organic farming in South Goa. All structures at this resort are made of bamboo, clay, stones, and leaves. Also, this resort sources fresh fruit, cashews and herbs. The most interesting kind of room to stay in, is the deluxe treehouse.

Cost: Approximately INR 3,250/night

Website: http://www.khaamakhetna.com/

The Unexplored Places in Goa

Goa is presumably the most popular traveller destination and is often known as the Las Vegas of India.

The sightseers frequently visit the beaches in Goa. They overlook other places because they are hardly know-about these spots' presence. Hidden spots give explorers with a serene and beautiful place to relax and respect nature.

Though Goa is largely seen as a summer destination, the coastal state is stunning in the rains. While numerous popular attractions close down, this is when the natural beauty of Goa takes centre stage. 

Monsoon in Goa starts from end-May and usually last till October. Goa is in the Konkan seacoast of India, which receives a lot of rain. There is a lot of verdure far and wide, thanks to the rain, making Goa beautiful. The rains bring to limelight Goa’s unexplored hinterlands and generates employment for locals, while giving sightseers a chance to explore a different side of the state.

Goa used to be empty during the rainy season as the travellers stayed away, preferring to visit the place in peak winter season. But that has changed now. Lot of people visit Goa in the monsoon now, to enjoy the rains and verdure. The rains, overcast conditions, the always happy Goan spirit, ample food and drinks, have made Goa a popular destination indeed, during the monsoons.

Here are the Finest Choices for Things to do in Goa in Monsoon

1. Witness the Majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Dudhsagar Waterfalls are located in Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa. The tourists can walk jungle paths and cross raging waterway torrents to get to the base of the waterfalls. Otherwise, travel via train and pass through the falls - both options are worth a trip.

Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Collem, Goa

2. River Rafting in Mhadei River

The strong torrents of Mhadei River, with the occasional big swells, make it a perfect point for river rafting. As the river passes through thick tropical timberlands, the excitement increases manifold. And if you encounter an unanticipated shower or two, the feeling is pure bliss.

River Rafting in Mhadei River, Valpoi, Goa

3. Visit the Spice Gardens

There are numerous spice gardens in Goa, and visiting them in the rains is the best thing you can do. The air is aromatic with the intoxicating smells of different spices. And when the cool wind carries the flavours with it, it is even more inviting.

Sahakari Spice Farm, Curti, Ponda, Goa

4. Go for River Cruise

Going on a luxury cruise on Mandovi River is another relaxing thing to do for the duration of the monsoons in Goa. Evenings are the best time to undertake the cruise.

The two-hour cruise is a dazzling experience, after the cruise boat receives illuminated with amazing lights. Also, activities like casino, dance and musical performances, snacks etc. are held aboard the cruise. 

River Cruise, Captain of Ports, Panjim, Goa

5. Explore the Forts

In the rain showers, the forts in Goa also take on a new look. As rains wash down the dust on the walls, fortifications, cannons, and other structures in the forts, they are encircled by fresh greenery. The views from atop these forts look more splendid than ever.

Exploring the forts in the monsoons is a thrilling activity you can look forward to. The important ones to visit during the monsoons are Khorjuem Fort, Chapora Fort, Aguada Fort, and Reis Magos fort.

Reis Magos Fort, Verem, Goa