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Things to Do in South Goa

Goa is home to some of India’s best heritage sites owing to the wonderful architecture on display as well as the local culture which appeals to a wide section of people. A Goa Heritage Tour is the perfect way to explore the various historically significant locations on offer. The cathedrals stand out as architectural marvels (Basilica of Bon Jesus and Se Cathedral). There are a few museums which showcase the local culture of the place.

The best way to undertake a heritage tour in South Goa is by walking to some of these destinations. There are usually guides that are well-informed about the places. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Wax World Museum and Shri Manguesh Temple are just some of the heritage sites which are form part of the tour itinerary and are also regarded as some of the most interesting tourist places to visit in South Goa.

When embarking on these tours, it is advised to dress comfortably, wear sneakers to support long walks and carry water for replenishment.

One of the ways to appreciate the flora and fauna of Goa is to undertake a trek. Unravelling uncharted territories, they are usually designed to provide a wholesome experience to the group members. 

The Cotiago Wildlife Sanctuary is one such place which provides the setting for a fun and adventurous trek and should be on the list of places to visit in South Goa.

The path undertaken in the sanctuary can be quite difficult in parts with the trail becoming muddy. Expect to catch a glimpse of some wild animals as well as some rare bird species and flora. Group members are instructed by the guides to dress comfortably to enjoy the trekking in Goa. Usually, enough pit stops are given to rest before starting again.

Romance the backwaters of South Goa and discover the place in a unique way. These boats are usually well-furnished and equipped with modern amenities and luxuries. The view provided will keep you gripped throughout the entire journey – one of the definite things to do in South Goa. Cruise in Goa is quite popular among the people who visit to Goa.

One would find these boat house packages available at the Palolem and Cola beaches. While on the all – night journey, catch a glimpse of some heritage sites and old churches in Goa. Also, individuals on board the marvel at the range of flora and fauna that is visible.

When on the boat house, be careful not to get to close to the railings especially when inebriated. For individuals prone to sea sickness, ensure that the appropriate medicine is carried on board. Make sure to carry warm clothes because the nights could get a little chilly especially during the winter months.

Dolphin spotting tours is considered as a delightful activity in Goa. A boat will usually transport the group members to a particular point where they can catch a glimpse of the dolphins as well as the tricks they perform. This activity has now gained popularity for its appeal. Most people prefer to go in a group.

The best time to undertake one of these tours would be during the winter months spanning November – February. 

Parents are asked to ensure that their children do not get to close to the water to avoid any incidents. Also, all group members are asked to wear life jackets to be cautious.

Scuba Diving packages in Goa are also available at this time to make the place more attractive to tourists.

Among the best places to visit in South Goa, spice plantation is becoming popular because of the history involved. The price trade in Goa began with the entry of the Portugese in India.

 Spices were even used as a system of barter and were valued more than gold or any other form of currency.

These are used today to add flavor to some authentic Goan dishes. A spice plantation tour will allow you to truly understand how these seasonings are grown, harvested and processed before being sold to the markets for purchase.

Nothing is more relaxing and liberating that an ayurvedic massage while being surrounded by the peace and quiet that South Goa provides. Special medicinal oils are used which are heated at times to provide relief to the muscles, making it one of the best things to do in South Goa. The massages will not only help in relieving pain but will also increase blood circulation to revitalize the body.

Margao, Palolem, Vasco Da Gama and Agonda are just some of the places that provide these ayurvedic massages. Other places include Vendankur Ayurvedic, Yoga and Panchakarma Clinic and Sathgiri Ashram in Vasco Da Gama.

These ayurvedic massages of India are designed to relieve body pain but they also help in healing certain ailments which can be caused as a result of stress. Most of these centres usually provide the Marmas in Ayurvedic Massage where the forefinger is used to increase circulation and release toxins around the forehead area.

There are beauty massages also given by these ayurvedic experts. There are also ayurvedic massage houseboats which provide these massages to a lot of people at a time. These treatments are beneficial throughout the year and you can opt for a specific one depending upon the climate.

Suggested Read: 15 Best Goa Beaches for Foreigners

If you ever decide to visit the small town of Margao in South Goa, you must visit the main tourist attraction there – the covered markets, among the best places to visit in South Goa. The entire bazaar is loud and comprises of a fish and produce market. The varieties of fish and other seafood available for sale are worth the buy.

They are sold fresh and are great when making an authentic Goan dish. The best time to visit the market is during the early parts of the morning when the produce is fresh – and when the aroma is pretty awesome too.

Nothing really embodies the spirit of Goa like a good full moon party on the beach. Full-moon parties are just as their name implies – an all-night party which is held just before, on or after a full moon. 

They are usually bursting with energy and filled with people of different nationalities from around the world. Food and drinks flow freely and music blares all night. There are bars that come together to host a combined party, thereby catering to a large audience.

Colva is known for its churches and its vibrant nightlife, which is replete with parties, discos and other night spots. Some of the other beaches which host these parties include Arossim Beach, Cavelossim and Dona Paula. 

However, one should note that these full-moon parties can get quite suffocating because of the huge crowds of people that come to visit. The winter months are perfect for these full-moon parties as the weather is conducive to such an event.

Guests at these parties are advised to keep their valuables at home because of the amount of people that attend these events. Despite the rush, Colva Beach is among the best places to visit in South Goa.

Popular Read: 25 Best Resorts in North Goa

Apart from its beaches, Goa is also famously known for the wide range of seafood on offer. One can buy a variety which includes pomfret, shark, tuna, mackerel, prawns, squid, mussels and lobsters, among others. Popular delicacies which one should taste in Goa are the Goan fish curry, Prawn Balchow and Prawn and Lady Finger Curry, among a host of other dishes which are available locally.

Some of the best places to dig in some sumptuous seafood in South Goa include Gaffinos in Cavelossim Beach and Johncy’s in Benaulim Beach, a few of the beach shacks serve authentic Goan food as well. One of the best things to do in South Goa is to find a shack that serves these delicacies and enjoy a good meal.

For sports enthusiast, playing beach football on Varca Beach is a riveting experience. The beauty of the beach lies in its white sands and the sense of privacy that it provides. The wide, unhindered expanse makes it perfect for a game of football on the shore. 

There is no obstruction in the form of people – this is a hidden gem which many people do not know much about.

However, it should be noted that people wanting to engage in a game of football should play farther from the sea to avoid the waves disrupting the game. Do carry a first-aid kit in case there are any individuals from the group who might get cut as a result of contact with the sometimes coarse sand.