Goa is known as the party capital of India but that is just a tiny part of its personality. Whenever someone talks about Goa the topic is either the beaches in Goa or the nightlife and seafood available there. But Goa is not restricted to just these aspects, the state has a lot to offer other than the crazy parties, the yummy food, and the water bodies. The state is filled with historic monuments and wildlife sanctuaries. There are many famous forts in Goa like the Chapora Fort and Fort Aguada. It is a place surrounded by palm trees, you will come across tourists from all around the world. People who travel to Goa with family for a vacation can be seen sitting by the side of a beach and teaching their kids while some youngsters can be seen sunbathing. It has its ways of keeping travelers entertained. It offers a variety of stay options, from resorts, and 5 star hotels in Goa to budget stays.
Many hotels in Goa are located facing the beach so even if you are not fond of beaches you can enjoy the view and the sound of waves. If Goa without beaches makes your excitement vanish then hold a bit. This blog is for you, here we will take you down the lane where Goa without beaches will also sound fun to you. Come accompany us on a ride where we explore the hidden gems of Goa.
Six top places you can visit in Goa other than the crowded beaches are mentioned below:
1. Tambi Surla Temple and Water Fall (trek)
In the depths of the Bhagwan Mahavir National Park is hidden a divine Shiva temple at Tambi Surla. It is an exciting trek surrounded by natural beauty. The ancient temple was built along the lines of the Kadamba-Yadava architecture. The stone carving and the statues of Lord Brahma and Vishnu are mesmerizingly beautiful. These stone carvings leave behind a lot of questions in your mind. The waterfall acts as a golden feather in the hat of the location named Tambi Surla. You can even rest at the campsite once you reach the destination and enjoy the picturesque view.
2- Dudhsagar Waterfall, North Goa
This location falls on the border of Goa and Karnataka. The beauty within the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and the Mollem National Park. This waterfall is famous as it is the 5th tallest waterfall in India. The four-tiered waterfall is a must-visit destination in Goa. Surrounded by nature this waterfall is unadulterated and calming. Once you visit this place your gallery will be filled to the brim with the images of this flora and fauna belt.
3- The Latin Quarters
Some structures of this Heritage Zone may have lost their color with time after facing the wrath of different seasons but the charm and Portuguese vibe are still intact. Surrounded by soothing yet slightly vibrant colors Goa’s Latin Quarters are a magnet for tourists. It is located in Panjim. These quarters take you back to the days when the Portuguese ruled India. The houses there are left behind by the families that were last to survive from their clan. The shops, bakeries, and galleries built on the narrow streets give these quarters a mysterious depth.
4- Anjuna Flea Market
If One-stop-shop was a place it would be the Anjuna Flea Market. This market represents the culture, vibe, and style of Goa as a state. From bohemian hippie clothing to local cuisines and art forms everything can be easily found here. Walk by the shops while you listen to the Goan music playing in the background. This market is the heart of Goa. This is a place where you can polish your haggling skills. A fun fact is that this market was set up by hippies who smoked joints.
5- Basilica of Bom Jesus
During the Portuguese rule in India Velha Goa was the capital. Many historical monuments can be spotted in this area. The Basilica of Bom is one of the UNESCO- listed heritage sites of Goa. Completed in 1605 this church is dedicated to little Jesus. A finely carved statue of St. Francis Xavier, as well as his mortal remains, is placed in this church. The interior of the church is unique and it has a spectacular gold altar.
6- Fort Aguada
This fort plays an important role in the history of Goa. It is one of the largest forts and one of its many impressive features is the rustic lighthouse. It was built in 1864 and is considered one of the oldest built lighthouses in Asia. Do catch a glimpse of the sunset from this fort. Constructed on the banks of Mandovi River it acted as a fearless defense of the Portuguese against its enemies.
What are you waiting for? Go and book your hotel in Goa as soon as possible. Hope this blog was helpful. We would be delighted to help you by making your hotel bookings hassle-free. Do visit HotelDekho.com to get the best deals and prices on hotel bookings in Goa.
