A holiday in Goa is definitely one for the bucket list! A Goa trip with buddies, family or even that special someone promises magical memories intermingled with ample excitement and adventure. This beach destination has several attractions for visitors but if you wish to venture off the beaten track, you’ll be pleasantly surprised! There are some really unusual things to do in Goa that you can try. You can take a break from your regular itinerary of beach hopping and partying to indulge in some of these fun activities. Here’s a look at the 10 offbeat things to do in Goa:
1. Capturing colorful Butterflies
Did you know that Goa is home to a beautiful butterfly conservatory? This is located at Ponda and makes for a splendid experience. You will definitely experience a rush of happiness when you see hordes of colorful butterflies flying around. You can also feed them with fresh fruits and watch the arduous process of nectar gathering. You will find several budget hotels in Goa near Ponda that offer hassle-free stay.
2. Visiting Spice Plantation
Take a trip to the beautiful spice plantations in Goa for that heady aroma of fresh spices. Sahakari Spice Farm and Savoi Plantations are worth visiting, and the added bonus? You get to play with majestic elephants, bathe them or even sit on their backs!
Also Read: Trekking Places in Goa
3. Crab Catching
Catching a crab is harder than you think! If you are ready to get dirty, venture out on a crab catching expedition with homemade Kobblem nets. Make traps for crabs and catch them anywhere on the sea coast or backwaters. There are several tours which take place in this regard. You can consider hotels in Goa near popular beaches to indulge in this fun activity.
4. Backwater Kayaking
Goa has beautiful rivers and backwaters that many don’t explore. If you’re into adventure sports and kayaking seems your thing, feel free to indulge in the same on the Nerul/Mandovi rivers or the Sal and Zuari backwaters.
5. Wine Tasting
Grape Escapade is the largest wine fest in India and is held in Goa (where else!). This is an annual stop for party lovers in the country and you can enjoy awesome wine tasting sessions in gorgeous and serene surroundings.
6. Discovering Underwater Shipwrecks
Yes, it’s straight out of a pirate novel; Goa was under Portuguese rule for over 450 years and shipwrecks were frequent since the sea was the primary transportation channel. You can book out of the world scuba diving experiences in Goa and take guided tours of underwater shipwrecks. If this isn’t exciting, then what is?
7. Getting up-close to Crocodiles
Goa has one of the biggest crocodile populations in the country and you can spend some time watching these magnificent beasts laze around and waltz in their natural habitats. Most of these aquatic predators can be seen in the dense jungle near Cumbarjua canal. Book crocodile sighting trips with local operators and have the most thrilling time of your life!
8. Indulging in Retail Therapy
Goa is a heaven for shopaholics and fashionistas alike! Anjuna Flea Market is one of the best places to pick up almost anything you desire; from trinkets to chic clothing and decorative items, it offers it all. The Tibetan markets are the go-to place for home décor pieces and accessories. You can also buy fresh fish from the well-known Chapora fish market and the famous cashew feni from Margao. For pocket-friendly stays near these famous markets, check out FabHotel King’s Court Calangute which is – one of the best budget hotels in Goa.
9. Bird watching
Bird lovers will rejoice since Goa is home to some of the most exotic birds in India. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit for getting some lovely snaps along with the Carambolim Lake and Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Saligao are other hotspots for bird watching along with Morjim Beach. You can check out budget hotels in Morjim like FabHotel Retreat Morjim if you want to experience Goa’s beautiful flora and fauna.
Also Read: Beaches in South Goa
10. Dancing with Dolphins
Prepare to be blown away by the gregarious dolphins frequenting Goa’s waters. Dolphin sighting is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Goa and the cruises usually run from Sinquerim, Fort Aguada or the Panaji Jetty. In case you’re allowed and adequate safety measures are in place, jump into the sea and play with these delightful creatures!
Goa has a lot to offer in terms of touristy and off-beat attractions, and fun things to do. A Goa holiday can be versatile in more ways than one. Spend a few days and you will fall in love with the laidback, warm and welcoming vibe of the place and its inhabitants. If you are on a budget and want comfortable and clean hotels with all necessary amenities, choose FabHotels – a leading budget hotel brand with more than 500 hotels across 45+ Indian cities. FabHotels makes use of modern technology for ensuring efficient operations and hassle-free customer experience. The brand’s hallmarks include top-notch housekeeping, excellent service, and stringent auditing mechanisms. Among its Goa hotels, FabHotel Tahira Ashwem Beachfront and FabHotel Ashvem Beach Resort are the most preferred by tourists.