Off-beat Goa

Anjali Notandas

Beyond the ordinary beaches and parties, lies the heart and soul of Goa, which for years I have been exploring and relishing in. For decades, Goa has attracted a certain type of crowd - the party people, foreigners escaping their country's harsh winters, and adventure lovers. It's no surprise that so much beauty has already been tarnished. I too found it hard to find places that I loved, but after years of exploring, I am thrilled to be sharing my off-beat experiences that made me know the real goa - one that is for nature lovers and conscious travelers, looking for the authentic Goa experience. My top 4 places to experience the real Goa + the best of stays ~ Netravali: Disconnect & Rejuvenate ~ Cabo de Rama: Witness the Ruins ~ Betul: Seaside Tranquility ~ Divar Island & beyond: Goa's Timeless Heritage

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Netravali

@anjalinotandas

This one's for the real nature lovers, looking to disconnect, and seek beyond the Goa that they already know. It is a real, hidden gem, but not to be missed if you're up for a great experience. Flora and fauna are abundant, and Netravali has breathtaking waterfalls if you like hiking. Even if you're not the adventure type and want to enjoy a relaxing stay in the woods, it has wonderful eco-stay options, with spice farms and activities. Even the drive is pleasant and lush, and the roads are great for a weekend cycling trip too! The forests are a mix of evergreen & deciduous, totally enveloping the place. If you venture deep enough, you can find panthers, hornbills, king cobras, and other species. One important thing to note is that network will not be great, and even if the stays have WiFi, it won't be very strong. So if you're planning to work, it's better to take a break (totally worth it!) Life here is quite slow and soft. The villagers are incredibly peaceful, nights come early, and mornings will be welcomed by the sounds of birds chirping and probably knocking at your window. Netravali tops my list anyday, because of the comfortable, yet sustainable accomodation, and surrounding wildlife sanctuaries, and scenic drive-thrus. Check out the stay recs!

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Divar Island

@anjalinotandas

This peaceful island, accessible only by ferry, is one of Goa's best kept secrets, and is a serene escape from the mainland. Its charm lies in the untouched beauty of its landscapes, the traditional Goan houses, and the warm hospitality of its residents. The island is home to stunning Portuguese-era churches, lush paddy fields, and quiet, winding roads perfect for cycling or leisurely walks. Exploring Divar is like stepping back in time, with its traditional Goan festivities and architecture. This is perfect for those who want to slow down and enjoy traditional Goan lifestyle, local cuisine, and scenic beauty. Beyond Divar lies Vanxim and Chorao islands that you can drive thru.

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Cabo de Rama

@anjalinotandas

This is a historic and visually stunning destination, known for its ancient fort ruins that date back to before the Portuguese occupation. Perched atop a cliff with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, the Cabo de Rama Fort offers a glimpse into Goa's rich history and architectural heritage. Exploring the ruins, with their age-old walls and remnants of past battles, transports travelers back in time. The fort also houses a quaint church that is still in use today, adding to its charm. The fort's location offers spectacular views of the sea and surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. On good days, you can head to the beach that even has a stream, and enjoy a group picnic.

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Betul

@anjalinotandas

Not many know about this gem, but it certainly is a wonderful secret. Betul has a charming fishing community, and you can witness the life of traditional fishermen, and maybe even try it out for yourself. The beach is quite hidden away with sand dunes, which is a perk because it's quiet enough for a truly relaxing vacation. Betul offers scenic trails and walks, leading through lush greenery and offering stunning views of the coastline. It is also close to other scenic Spots in south Goa. Betul is best known for its unspoiled landscape, relaxed lifestyle, and fresh seafood. In a way, it offers a glimpse into Goa's rich past.

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Mangaal Farmstay

@anjalinotandas

Jungle Hideaway with Farm-to-Table dining experience in Netravali.

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Tanshikar Spice Farm

@anjalinotandas

Eco-stay in the middle of a spice farm, with homemade meals, excursions, and a warm host. The WiFi is not too good if you're working, but it's expected. The highlight is definitely the tour of the spice farm, and the host knows each and every spice and plant growing there. It is also educational and fun.

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Cabo De Rama Cottage

@anjalinotandas

A budget 1bhk stay close to the fort, the cottage is surrounded by nature, and has all the amenities you require. It's great if you're looking for a tranquil visit and want to explore the beauty of South Goa.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Anjali Notandas

Namaste travelers! Greetings from India - the land I have called home for the last 20 years. I was born in Indonesia, but raised in India, and have been living in Goa for the past 5 years. Traveling is quite literally in my genes, I think. My mother worked in the travel industry for most of her life, and I tagged along whenever I could. At 23, I have traveled to over 5 countries, most of them in Asia. I love exploring culture, learning about people and history, food, and languages. Now, I am thrilled to put my experiences to good use by curating travel guides for visiting Asia, with a focus on India. What's my travel style? I'm a digital nomad and a slow & soft traveler! I spend at least a month in new countries and immerse myself in the local culture and learning as much as I can while working and volunteering. In my guides and consultations, you'll always find top local/off-beat experiences, which is what ultimately makes a true traveler. Yes, I do enjoy some 'touristy' stuff too, and fall for the 'Instagram-able' trap occasionally, but I make the guides I wish I had when I was traveling. What will you find here? 🛕 Cultural exploration recommendations 🤼‍♀️ Offbeat activities 🏘 Top stays (mostly hostels) 🥘Things to eat 🤹‍♀️Where I volunteer I love helping travelers discover hidden gems and build connections through authentic experiences. Let's go!

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