A little beach hopping, lazing at the shacks, partying at Tito’s and a few sips of Feni – that about covers your itinerary if you’re a tourist in Goa. But if you’re a real traveler you wouldn’t be satisfied with just that. To feel the beating pulses of Goa, you have to dig a little deeper and look for the places that are beyond a tourist’s perspective. Read on to know of some offbeat things to do in Goa.
29 Offbeat Things To Do In Goa
While Goa is most famous for its shacks and pary vibes, don’t restrict yourself to just partying wild in Goa. There is so much more to do than just hopping from shack to shack. From kayaking to island hopping, and from exploring the mystical caves to quenching your adrenaline rush, there are many fascinating things to do in Goa. So, here are some of the most amazing and offbeat places in Goa and if you’re going to miss them you have seen nothing:
- Butterfly Conservatory – Pay A Visit
- Spice Plantations – Take A Walk
- Goan Backwaters – Go Crab Catching
- Mandovi River – Go On A Romantic Sunset Cruise
- Go Island Hopping – For Variety
- Sinquerim – Play With The Dolphins
- Devil’s Canyon – Feel The Chills
- Goan Caves – Walk Through The Dark Passages
- Cabo De Rama – Witness The Ruins
- Kayaking – Have Fun
- Catamaran Sailing – Sail Through The Waters
- Chapora River – Dine On A Houseboat
- Mandrem – Practice Yoga
- Miramar Beach – Go Cycling
- Grande Island – Take A Day Trip
- Arambol Beach – Go On An Ocean Trek
- Chandor – Enjoy Hot Air Ballooning
- Todo Waterfalls – Go On An Offbeat Trek
- Mhadei River – Experience White Water Rafting
- Calangute Beach – Try Parasailing
- Mandrem Beach – Enjoy Quad Biking
- Mapusa – Take Wing Chun Kung Fu Training
- Zuari River – Crocodile Spotting
- Anjuna Flea Market – Indulge In Shopping
- Dudhsagar Falls – Take A Trek
- Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary – Witness Endangered Animals
1. Butterfly Conservatory – Pay A Visit
Wondering what to do in Goa? On your way back from the lush spice plantations of Goa you can visit the Butterfly Conservatory and see the most happy and colourful fluttering things to do in Goa. And not just stand and watch, you can feed those beautiful beings with juicy fruits and watch them cheerfully gathering nectar. Doesn’t it sound exciting? For more information you can check their website.
Timings: 9 Am – 4 Pm
Entry Fee: INR 150
Location: Ponda, Pisgal, Priol, Goa 403401
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2. Spice Plantations – Take A Walk
In search of some places to visit in Goa other than beaches? The spice plantations are some of the most offbeat places to visit in Goa. Walk through the aromatic fresh plantation and learn about various spices. Savoi plantations and Sahakar Spice Farm are the two of the most famous plantations that you must visit. Apart from enjoying the natural beauty and walking through the plantation that happens to be one of the best things to do in Goa, you also get to play with the majestic tuskers. Give them a bath or sit on their back while the splash you with water.
Places To Visit: Savoi plantations and Sahakar Spice Farm
Location: H.No. A-14 , Arla Bazar Keri, Ponda, Kerim, Goa 403401
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3. Goan Backwaters – Go Crab Catching
Crab catching is no child’s play! Don’t want to get your hands dirty? Scared of getting a little snap? Well, then it’s not your cup of tea. You make thing that it is one of the crazy things to do in Goa, but it’s fun nevertheless. With homemade nets called ‘Kobblem’ you set up traps for the crabs and catch them in the Goan backwaters or the sea side. There are various crab catching tours that takes place in Goa or you could just make a local friend in one of the villages and tag along with them for a little adventure. Do not miss out on this one as it is one of the must do things in Goa.
Places to visit:Sonalium
Location: Doodh Sagar Waterfalls Trail, Goa
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4. Mandovi River – Go On A Romantic Sunset Cruise
Wondering what to do in Goa in the evenings? The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) runs different river cruises on the Mandovi river during daytime, sunset, and moonlight. If you want to take a day cruise, there are two kinds- one from the Panaji jetty down the Mandovi into the Zuari bay and the second is up the Mandovi to Aldona and a mineral water spring.
There are also a few private firms that offer a variety of exclusive cruises or boat tours for sunset views as well as for crocodile or dolphin spotting.
Duration: 2 hours
Charges: INR 300
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5. Go Island Hopping – For Variety
Confused what to do in Goa? The choose to go island hopping – one of the must do things in Goa. Far from the city din and the rowdy tourists, these secluded islands of Goa are perhaps the most beautiful part of the state. Multiple ferry rides away, these villages welcome you with old Portuguese-style houses dotting the landscape, lush vegetation and a quaint environment. Indulge in the local ambiance, hog on some of the most delicious bakeries you’ve ever tried and interact with the lovely locals.
Places to visit: Ilha Grande, Divar Island, Vanxim Island
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6. Sinquerim – Play With The Dolphins
Dolphin sighting is one of the most wonderfully offbeat things to do in Goa. Not many people know of this amazing activity here and it is often ignored. The cruises usually start from Fort Aguada, Sinquerim or Panaji Jetty. If you’re allowed you can also take a dip in the sea and play with these lovely creatures but only if the adequate safety arrangements are made. Excited? Do add this to your list of things to do in Goa.
Other Things To Do In Goa: Banana ride, Para Gliding, Jet Skiing
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7. Devil’s Canyon – Feel The Chills
Looking for places to visit in Goa other than beaches? Then Devil’s Canyon is the place to be. They say a demon use to reign at this place having control over every living creature in the area including the fishes. However, when a local duped the demon and stole his fishes, the area was cursed. Even today when you go to the place you can feel it’s eerie vibes and the uncanny silence. The turbulent river flowing in a deep gorge with various rock faces are infamous for taking the lives of many swimmers. Of all the offbeat places in Goa, this one is really an interesting one if spooky adventure is your thing.
Location: Caranzol, Goa 403410
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8. Goan Caves – Walk Through The Dark Passages
Few people know that there are surreal caves in Goa and that they have great historical and natural importance and can also be termed as some of the most romantic places in Goa. Some of these caves are even man-made. Some of the most important Goan caves that you must check out are the Arvalem Caves, the Lamgau Caves, and the Rivona Caves. The next time you visit Goa don’t miss out on caving. We bet that the experience would be totally amazing! Do strike off one of the most impressive activities to do in Goa off your wishlist.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
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9. Cabo De Rama – Witness The Ruins
Said to be Goa’s oldest fort, Cabo De Rama has been conquered too many time in the starting from the Hindus to the Mughals to the Portuguese. The chapel and barracks were built by the Portuguese after conquering it in 1700. Even though the fort is not very well kept and not very well known among tourists, you can see mind-blowing views of the sea from every corner of the fort. If you ever wonder what to do in Goa on your vacation, just find your way to the fort.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Location: Taluka Cabo da Rama, Canacona, Goa 403702
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10. Kayaking – Have Fun
Water activities are the best in Goa and kayaking is one of the offbeat activity to enjoy in Goa. One of the crazy things to do in Goa, there’s nothing like rowing across the charming creeks crossing the villages of northern Goa. Row along the shore or into the sea and enjoy nature at it’s tranquil best and carve some beautiful memories. Do add kayaking to your list!
Best Spots For Kayaking: Mandrem Beach, Penha de Franca
Approximate charges: ₹500-₹800 per person
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11. Catamaran Sailing – Sail Through The Waters
Another offbeat experience is catamaran sailing. Goa is the ideal destination for sailing and this is one activity that you should really try. One can see the locals set sail often, and this is your chance to do the same. The weather conditions in Goa, apart from monsoons are quite favorable to go sailing. Book yourself a cruise and enjoy sailing into the sea. The activity can be best enjoyed from morning till sunset. So, next time you wonder what to do in Goa, do add this to your list!
Ideal Duration: 2 hours
Approximate cost: ₹1000 per person
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12. Chapora River – Dine On A Houseboat
When we talk of Goa, houseboats usually do not come to our minds. But there are some amazing places offering a complete fun houseboat experience. Book yourself a place and go dine and dance on a houseboat in the waters of Goa, under the sky. Plan a date for your partner, or dance the night away with your friends on one of these houseboats on your vacay to Goa. One can choose an overnight tour or a day tour on a houseboat there.
Duration Of Stay: 2 days
Approximate cost: ₹2800 per person
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13. Mandrem – Practice Yoga
When we talk about Goa, then yoga is probably the last thing to come to our minds. But Goa has some amazing centers and yoga retreats. So if you want to relax, and unwind then heading to Goa to one of the yoga retreats is a great option. Mandrem, a village in Goa has a famous yoga retreat that you can check out if you are looking for some offbeat experiences there.
Best Time To Visit: March and April
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14. Miramar Beach – Go Cycling
Goa is famous for hiring a bike, wandering, exploring, and partying. But instead of a bike, hire a cycle for a day. Try the cycling tours that are available there. It would be one of the best experiences you have in Goa. it is always fun to cycle, and exploring the beaches in Goa and rural parts of the city on a cycle can be very exciting. Some tours start at the Miramar beach, so that is one place where you can rent a cycle and explore around.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
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15. Grande Island – Take A Day Trip
Ilha Grande in Goa is more popularly known as Grande Island or Bat Island. The only way to reach the island is by sailing to it and boat tours are available for the same. The tours to Ilha Grande are usually half-day tours which start in the morning around 8 or 9 depending on the operators via which one has booked the tour. It includes a visit to Bat Island and other activities like dolphin spotting, snorkeling, swimming, and lunch. The activities might vary from operator to operator and it is better to take complete details in advance. Nonetheless, Grande Island is one of the most offbeat places in Goa, so what are you waiting for? Pack your bags already!
Things To Do: Sun Bath, Swimming, Play football
Ideal Duration: 1 day
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16. Arambol Beach – Go On An Ocean Trek
All of us are familiar with hill and mountain treks, but one offbeat thing to experience in Goa is the ocean trek. There are quite a few secluded areas of Goa that one can discover through these treks. Trekking through green groves, right by the vast endless ocean is altogether a different experience. One can enjoy an ocean trek at Arambol beach in Goa.
Ideal Duration: 2 hours
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17. Chandor – Enjoy Hot Air Ballooning
If you are looking for an offbeat yet romantic experience in Goa, then go hot air ballooning on your next trip there. Chandor is a village in south Goa where one can enjoy this experience. One would be accompanied by the pilot in the wicker basket of the hot air balloon. The balloon rides can accommodate up to 10 people, but one can also book for a private tour with their special someone! So, planning on proposing on a hot air balloon this time?
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
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18. Todo Waterfalls – Go On An Offbeat Trek
If there are new experiences that you are seeking in Goa, then this waterfall trek is something that you can add to your list of offbeat things to do in Goa. Todo waterfalls are in Netravali, a town in Goa. It is an exciting trek that would take you through the dense forests of Goa. Cross small streams on your way as you enjoy the natural scenic beauty till you reach the final destination, Todo Waterfalls.
Price Of Trek: INR 3000 – INR 4000 per adult
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19. Mhadei River – Experience White Water Rafting
When one talks of rafting, Goa doesn’t usually come to mind. But it sure is something that one can experience on their trip to Goa. One can enjoy white water rafting at river Mhadei in Goa. This thrilling water sport is available for one to enjoy during the months of June to September when the river is in full flow. The 6 km stretch of the river is full of rapids. So, get ready to raft through high and low waves, whirlpools, and more.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Approximate cost: ₹1,589 per adult
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20. Calangute Beach – Try Parasailing
If you are looking for must do things in Goa then trying parasailing is one. Calangute Beach is not just a place to try exotic seafood and try Goan cuisine but also for water scooter rides and parasailing. The best part is that you can try it here at affordable prices. An evergreen Goan attraction, Calanagute is one of the best places to visit in Goa in May.
Ideal Duration: 20 minutes
Best Time To Visit: After monsoon to enjoy the water sports
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21. Mandrem Beach – Enjoy Quad Biking
Imagine being on a bike that doesn’t even look like a bike but a beast in the real sense of the term! Well, that’s somewhat quad biking looks like. Mandarem Beach is one of the offbeat places in Goa and trying quad biking here is exciting. Get an exciting off roading experience while trying one of the most exciting things to do in Goa.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
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22. Mapusa – Take Wing Chun Kung Fu Training
If you are looking for offbeat things to do in Goa then go out and try learning Wing Chun Kung Fu. A comprehensive martial art used for self defense, Wing Chun Kung Fu is one of the most interesting things to learn. Its not like any other martial art and emphasises on lethal street self defense.
Location: Mapusa town, main highway NH-17, North Goa
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23. Zuari River – Crocodile Spotting
Now this might seem scary but what’s life if not a little adventure? Well, Zuari River is one of the most beautiful places in Goa and you can spot crocodiles here which makes it even more popular. The crocodiles sun themselves on the mudflats. If you dare then you can even indulge in boating here.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
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24. Anjuna Flea Market – Indulge In Shopping
Its common knowledge that shopping in Goa is one of the most exciting activities to indulge in and therefore Anjuna Flea Market has become one of the best places to indulge in shopping here. There is a weekly flea market here that sells everything at dirt cheap prices. You can even try street food here.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Best Time To Visit: Dmello Vaddo, Anjuna, Goa 403509
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25. Dudhsagar Falls – Take A Trek
Another one of the offbeat things to do in Goa is to take a trek to the very popular Dudhsagar Falls. The falls got its name because of the milky white colour of its water. Dudhsagar is one of the tallest falls in India and is beautifully tucked between the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. In fact, when you visit Goa during monsoons, visiting Dhudhsagar Falls is one of the must-do things in Goa to keep in mind.
Best time to visit: Monsoon and soon after the rainy months
Location: Sonaulim, Goa 403410
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26. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary – Witness Endangered Animals
Home to many endangered animals and majestic because it is home to Bengal Tiger, Mhadeo Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best tourist places to visit in Goa. Spread across a sprawling area of 208.5 square kilometers, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled in the Western Ghats and is a place that you can’t miss out. If you are nature lover, then there are other wildlife sanctuaries in Goa that you can explore.
Ideal Duration: 1 -2 hours
Location: Valpoi, Goa 403505
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27. Chapora River – Flyboarding
One of the crazy things to do in Goa is flyboarding. It is a kind of activity where you wear a hydroflighting device and you go springing in the air. You may have seen this thrilling activity in the movies but now you can experience it on your Goan vacation. Don’t worry if it is your first time because there will be instructors guiding you. If you have an interest in such thrilling experiences, then you must definitely sign up for it. And, certainly Chapora River is one of the most exciting places to visit in North Goa.
Location: North Goa, near Chapora fort
Approximate cost: ₹1999 per person
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28. Upper Sauri – Canyoning
One of the most amazing activities to do in Goa is canyoning. The lush forests of Goa provide a gut-wrenching experience of canyoning. Upper Sauri Canyon in Palolem is one such place where you can feel the adrenaline rushing in your veins. It has six main waterfalls from where you can descend. It is an easy grade-activity and can easily be enjoyed by all age groups.
Location: Panjim, South Goa
Approximate cost: Starting price ₹3150
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29. Culinary Class
If you are a big time foodie, then you will find taking a culinary class as one of the most fulfilling activities to do in Goa. Why just stop at relishing the delicious Goan cuisine when you can learn its cooking secrets too? These recipes are an amalgamation of Indian, Portuguese and Coastal traditions. Interact with the chef and learn all you can about the art of cooking. If you are a home chef or just adore food experiences, then this is one of the must do things in goa, especially if you are a couple on a honeymoon. Nothing will bring you closer than cooking together.
Places to visit: Rita’s Gourmet Goa, Siolim Cooking School
Approximate charge: ₹2500-₹8500
Further Read: Nightlife In Goa: The Best After-Dark Experiences Offered Here
Finally taking that Goa trip which has been getting canceled for a while now? These offbeat places to visit in Goa are what defines a real travelers experience in the beach city. How many have you covered? If not all, take a trip to Goa again, and cover them all!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Offbeat Things To Do In Goa
What should I avoid in Goa?
Some of the don’t that travelers should keep in mind are:
1. Avoid going to secluded places at night
2. Don’t drive after drinking
3. Don’t fall asleep on the beach as there are crabs and snappers
4. Don’t get carried away while spending time at the casino
5. Throw trash in the trashcan only and don’t litter
Is Goa open for tourists?
Yes, the state of Goa is currently open for domestic tourists and travelers from all parts of the country. As per the Unlock 5 guidelines announced by the government, travelers no longer need to show a Covid-19 test or book accommodation in advance. You can easily travel from your home state by just undergoing a temperature check at entry points.
Which part of Goa is best for couples?
It depends on couples how they want to spend their vacation. If they want to witness the glamour and glitz, North Goa is the area for them that specially includes Tito’s Lane. There are also various beaches in the north like Baga Beach, Candolim Beach, Anjuna Beach, etc. where they can enjoy the Goan Nightlife. Besides this, if couples are seeking solace, they can head to South Goa which is much quieter than North Goa while having a smaller crowd.
Which are the best places to Visit in Goa?
If you wish to explore the best of Goa, make sure to visit places like Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort, Vagator Beach, Archives Museum, Diver Island, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Shri Mangeshi Temple, Candolim Beach, Anjuna Beach, and more.
When is the ideal time to visit Goa?
The months between November to May offer travellers to see the best of Goa. During this time, the temperature oscillates between 20°C to 33°C. You can indulge in several water activities and visit the top tourist attractions.
What are the offbeat things to do in Goa?
There are a plethora of offbeat things to do in Goa. Some of these are:
1. Walk through the spice garden
2. Visit the Butterfly Observatory
3. Try flyboarding at Chapora River
4. Enjoy an exciting trip to Dudhsagar Falls
5. Savour some exotic Goan seafood
6. Enjoy Crocodile spotting near Zuari River
7. Dine on a houseboat
Where can you go in Goa for dolphin sightings?
Dolphin sighting is one of the most exquisite things to do in Goa. You can visit certain spots, like Fort Aguada and Panaji Jetty to have this experience.
Where can you have a spooky experience in Goa?
Being a historical city, there are ruins and myths associated with it. But, if you are looking for an offbeat place which is a bit uncanny, visit Devil’s Canyon. The river is turbulent here and which offers one a thrilling experience.
How many days are enough to visit Goa?
Whether you are a conventional tourist or want to add adventure in your days in Goa, 3 to 4 days are enough to visit the city and indulge in several activities.
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