There is more to Goa than beaches: wildlife parks, river cruises, the Portuguese colonial heritage in Old Goa and visits to spice farms are some of the things to do in Goa (if you manage to leave the beaches, that is).
A Lazy Day in Goa India (Enzo Coribello)
The Colonial Old Goa
When Goa was a Portuguese colony, the area that is now Old Goa (or Velha Goa) was the colonial capital. Today you can visit Old Goa to see 16th century Portuguese-style architecture, old cathedrals and museums. The16th century Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most famous buildings here and also houses a museum. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Old Goa is located near the state capital Panjim (Panaji) and you can get here by taxi or by local bus.
Goa River Cruises
Cruise along the Mandovi River for a few hours or for a whole day: travel agencies and hotels in Goa offer a variety of cruises from sunset and dinner cruises to moonlight cruises, day trips and to overnight trips on a river boat.
Wildlife Parks in Goa
There are several wildlife sanctuaries in Goa on the foothills of the Western Ghats mountains. You can spot elephants, several species of deer, monkeys, snakes and birds in the wildlife sanctuaries and if you have not visited the ghats before, you’ll love the green and lush forests, especially right after the monsoon. The Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, the Bonda Wildlife Sanctuary and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary are all close enough for a day trip. Cotigao has some accommodation options, provided by the Forest Department, but these must apparently be booked in advance.
Spice Farms in Goa
The sunny climate in Goa is ideal for growing nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, cardamon, pepper, chilli and other exotic spices. Around Ponda, in the central part of Goa, are several spice farms, and many of them offer short tours to visitors. Some also provide overnight accommodation. The Sahakari Spice Farm and the Savoi Spice Plantation,as well as several others, can arrange educating tours around the plantation. Many spice farms also grow tropical fruits or medicinal herbs. You can learn about the cultivation of spices, taste local spices and buy some to take home. Some plantations also offer other activities; the Shakari Spice Farm arranges elephant rides. Contact the spice farms directly, or talk to travel agents for an organized tour.
