Introduction:
Goa is India’s smallest state and it is also one of its most beautiful. It has always been popular with tourism mainly because of its beaches, the nightlife, etc. But for those looking for some more offbeat attractions there are quite a few things to see and do! In this post we take a look at some of Goa’s offbest places!
1.ashwem beach
The peaceful and pristine Ashwem Beach is located in Mandrem, Pernem, North Goa. Ashwem is one of those beaches in Goa that are least crowded and popular among the locals. This beach is a great place for sunbathing and swimming since it has clean waters, calm waves and absolutely no rocks.
In addition to all its other attractions, Ashwem beach is home to Olive Ridley Turtles who come here every year between October and December to lay their eggs on the sand. Apart from turtles, there are other marine animals like dolphins and whales that can be spotted while enjoying water activities at Ashwem Beach.
2.velsao beach
This beach is a paradise for people who love to spend time in a quiet environment. The beach is very calm and the waves are not very strong. Coconut trees decorate the beach, providing shade to the visitors.
The calm waters and the beautiful surroundings of this beach make this place a very popular destination for those who want to spend some quality time with their loved ones. There are plenty of options available for accommodation ranging from 5 star hotels to budget-friendly resorts. You can also find budget-friendly homestays at velsao.
3. Harvalem falls.
The waterfall is a picture of serenity with its sky high waterfalls and the water crashing down over rugged boulders. The cascading water turns milky white as it flows over smooth rocks and dense vegetation.
In addition to the main falls, there are two smaller but equally spectacular waterfalls nearby.
To reach the falls, visitors can take a morning walk from Harvalem village or drive all the way to the falls from Sanquelim village. Another option is to hail a boat from Dudhsagar resort near the falls.
4.mollem National park
Mollem National Park is located in South Goa and covers an area of 400 hectares. It is considered as one of the best places to spot wildlife in Goa. You can find various species of birds, animals and reptiles here. In fact, there are also some endangered species found in this park like mugger crocodiles and marsh crocodiles.
5.bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is also a great place for wildlife lovers who want to explore the nature in Goa. The sanctuary covers an area of 60 square kilometres or 24 square miles and consists of two parts – Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. This sanctuary is home to many wild creatures including leopards, sloth bears, gaur, tigers etc.
6.ella church:Our Lady Of The Mount
the Church of Our Lady of the Mount, located in the village of Old Goa. This church is one of the oldest churches dedicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, in India. It is also known as Nossa Senhora Do Monte (meaning Our Lady of The Mount) and was built by the Portuguese in 1566. It is a must visit for anyone visiting Goa.
Also, it sits atop a small hill which provides stunning views of the city below during sunrise and sunset
It is best to visit this church early morning or late evening since it’s usually deserted during these times.
7.Chorla ghats
The Sahyadri mountain range, located off Sankhali, Chorla in North Goa, is a beautiful hill station among the Western Ghats
Sahyadri offers scenic views of the surrounding Sahyadri ranges. The undulating hillsides are covered in dense foliage and accentuated by wild flowers and creeping vines that hang from overhanging branches. The area serves as a sanctuary for birds such as parrots and peacocks; butterflies such as the common brown butterfly and the crimson rose butterfly; jackals; various types of monkeys; and sloth bears. You can also see rare species of plants including orchids and bromelias.
8.The Arvalem caves.
Arvalem Caves is one of the most visited places in Goa. It is located at a distance of 29 km from Panjim and 46 km from Vasco Da Gama Railway station, in the Sanquelim village, District Bicholim. These caves dating back to the 6th century are famous for their mixed architecture.
The mythological legend says that these caves were originally used by Pandavas. It is believed that Pandavas stayed here during their exile period. Shivlingas can be seen here which confirms that they are Hindus’ cave. Some people believe that Buddhist monks too used it as a shelter.
9.savoi spice garden
A visit to the Savoi Spice Garden is one of the best things you can do in North Goa. You will be amazed by the vast collection of spices that you might not have even heard of before. Located near the village of Ponda, it boasts some organic herbs and spices that are not cultivated anywhere else in India. The guide will take you through the garden and explain their properties, such as their medicinal use, culinary use, and various other aspects.
10.hollant beach
Hollant Beach is located on the western coast of Goa, near Merceshwar temple. This beach is about 10 km from Vasco da Gama and can be reached through NH 17 or Calangute-Baga road. The best part about Hollant beach is that it has no hotels or restaurants nearby which makes it an ideal place for those who want to spend some quality time with their family members or alone without any disturbance from outsiders. It also has a small creek that flows into the sea which makes it even more beautiful and peaceful.
Takeaway
Goa has always been crowded with tourists and backpackers, but if you are looking for a quieter time of your life, look no further. Here’s the best 10 places to visit in Goa and where they are in order to get you away from crowds, and on an adventure in one of the most beautiful paradise destinations.
