The first thought when you think of Goa usually is about the shimmering beaches, gently swaying palm trees, vibrant shacks by the Arabian Sea and its party culture. But apart from all of this, Goa is also known as the melting pot of deep yogic practices which attracts thousands of wellness enthusiasts from every corner of the world. 

This small state in India is a place where colorful churches are nestled alongside the beautiful temples, where the retreats and YTT programs exist with the all-night rave parties at the beach and the bustling markets with fresh seafood. The ability of this coastal paradise to offer different versions to every explorer is what makes it truly special and unique. If you wish for relaxation and unwinding yourself, then the tranquil beaches of South Goa are the best option to consider. If you are a party lover and like to experience the bustling crowd of tourists in Goa, then the North side is the ideal place for you to stay. 

Read this blog to get the exact guide about the best experiences in Goa and what will help you explore the hidden gems of this destination. By the end of this blog, you will understand why this coastal haven continues to charm travel enthusiasts from all over the globe and why it is different for every individual. 

Enjoy your Evenings with the Intimate Goan-Portuguese Culture

The soul of Goa is not only in its beaches or its bustling market, but it resides deeply in the music and its culture. While most of the travelers think of this state for its sunset DJs and trance beats by the beachside, the deeper way to understand its real culture is to experience an evening wrapped in the Fado and Mando melodies. Head to the capital of the state, Panaji, where every cultural space, especially the Centre for Indo-Portuguese Arts (CIPA) will feel like a beautiful artwork. 

If you wish to understand the culture and traditions of Goa, then spend time in Panaji’s Heritage Home Experiences which host cultural evenings featuring their famous band Entre Nous. Their performances feel like stepping into a museum that not just exhibits songs but also invites you to join it. The Goan heritage is so much more than just beaches or parties, and you will start realizing that after you’ve spent time in the cultural programs hosted here. 

Explore the Architectures of Old Goa

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Old Goa used to be the grand capital of Portuguese India and was referred to as the Rome of the East. Here the skyline is full of domes, facades, and towing spires which reflect the influence of Europe in Asia. Old Goa is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and when you enter it, it will feel like you stepped into another era. They have Baroque alters, sweeping courtyards, and red laterite stores that reflect the stories of conquest, devotion, and faith. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus here, which was built in 1605. It is one of the iconic architectures in Goa and is famous for holding the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. 

Exploring Old Goa is a treat for history buffs and enthusiasts as it beautifully combines the spirituality, art, and culture of the Goans. There are many churches still holding daily mass, which gives the travelers an opportunity to see the living spaces of worship rather than seeing a monument. Old Goa provides a glimpse of every chapter of Goan history and is as powerful and impacting as the beaches of Goa. 

The Night Life of Goa

Goa’s nightlife is one of its major attractions for tourists. When the sun sets into the Arabian Sea, the beachside becomes extra lively and trades their lowkey calm for a vibrant burst of energy. Suddenly everything and everyone takes on an entirely new character at night. When you are along the North side of the coast, the nightlife reflects neon lights, trance music, and dance floors that don’t stop until dawn. 

But this vibrant nightlife is not only about the big clubs of Goa but also about the unique and quirky experiences that you will not find anywhere else. In South Goa, the silence of Palolem beach’s silent disco nights is a perfect way to blend in with the strangers without compromising your taste in music. The beach shacks come to life at night and their jazz nights become people’s favourite attraction. You can either lose yourself in a jam packed club or simply listen to the calming live music as the cool breeze carries the soothing sound. 

Participate in the Adventurous Activities

Goa is a paradise for adventure lovers and for someone seeking thrill in life. The vast Arabian Sea gives an open invitation to dive into sea adventures, especially if you are an adrenaline junkie. Imagine parasailing at the Baga beach or Candolim, or going beneath the surface in the Grande island and Bat island. Kayaking is another adventure activity which you can explore in Goa at a slower pace. Pad through the mangroves of Chapora River and witness the beauty of this coastal paradise. 

Apart from the water adventure sports, you can also try jet skiing and banana boat rides which are the staple in every touristy beach. Try white water rafting if you wish to do something more than ordinary during the monsoon season. Bungee jumping at Anjuna beach or trekking into the mist-covered trails of Western Ghats is also another set of adventures you can be a part of. 

Be a Part of the Monsoon Festival in Goa

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A majority of the tourist crowd think that Goa is a winter destination, but if you discuss with the locals you will realize that the monsoon season brings out the true magic of this state. Here the rains transform this paradise into a completely green landscape which also includes a lineup of interesting and vibrant festivals. These festivals and religious celebrations reflect the true culture and traditions followed by the locals of Goa. One of the most amazing festivals to attend is Sao Joao, which is celebrated in the month of June. Here the young men leap into the overflowing wells as well as rivers while wearing a floral crown. This is celebrated in honor of St. John the Baptist and the festival symbolises renewal as well as abundance. 

The off season time also showcases a deeper and quiet aspect of cultural events. In the month of August, Bonderam festival takes over Diver Island. The narrow lanes of the island come alive with dance, music, and street food, making it an electric experience for visitors. These festivals are not just about entertainment but a way to witness Goa beyond its usual beaches and nightlife. Monsoons in Goa also give you the opportunity to witness the roaring waterfalls and misty hills. 

Immerse in Yoga Practices with the YTT Programs and Wellness Retreats

Goa has swiftly emerged as one of the major wellness destinations across the globe. Yoga enthusiasts, every year, visit Goa to get the opportunity of deepening their wellness practices and reconnecting with themselves. The tranquil beach surroundings, tropical weather, and a relaxed environment here, makes it easier for practitioners to unwind themselves, slow down, and focus inward. Here, you will find numerous yoga schools teaching different aspects of yoga and taking multiple sessions to help you focus on your practices. Schools like India Yogashala are reputed and extremely famous in providing YTT programs as well as retreats with a combination of ancient wisdom of yoga and modern techniques. 

If you are serious about understanding and immersing yourself in the different aspects of yoga, then you must attend the yoga teacher training programs or retreats provided by various yoga schools here. Whether you are here for a week or want a committed month-long training, Goa has everything you need. The yoga schools here provide certified 200, 300, and 500-hour yoga teacher training programs which are accredited by the Yoga Alliance, USA. This means that if you are interested in making yoga teaching your profession, then this is the perfect place for you. For someone who wants to get introduced to the world of yoga and wishes to understand its wisdom, yoga retreats are the one for you. Sessions in these programs are extremely insightful about yoga asanas, pranayama, as well as meditation. With the help of such retreats you will be able to escape from the stressors of life and learn to live a balanced and sustainable life ahead. 

Authentic Ayurvedic Therapies 

Apart from the shimmering beaches and a vibrant culture, Goa is also home to numerous wellness activities like yoga and ayurveda. In the peaceful settings of this coastal paradise, ayurveda thrives as one of the most popular wellness activities. There are various therapies and herbal treatments which are offered by multiple yoga schools and wellness centers in order to treat your chronic diseases, anxiety, stress, or boosting overall health. 

a. Abhyanga- Being one of the most sought-after ayurvedic therapies in Goa, Abhyanga is performed by two therapists who are in sync. It is performed by using a warm herbal oil for massaging your entire body in specific directions that are aligned with your energy chakras. This is the best therapy for improving your lymphatic drainage and boosting immunity. 

b. Shirodhara- Shirodhara is yet another important therapy in ayurveda which includes pouring the warm herbal oil over your forehead in a continuous stream for 30-60 minutes. This is a calming therapy which soothes your third eye chakra and reduces insomnia as well as mental stress. 

c. Swedana- Swedana is an ayurvedic therapy that involves targeted steam vessels for opening up your pores and deeply detoxifying your body. This particular therapy is performed after Abhyanga in order to support its effects. 

Spice Plantation of Goa

The Spice Plantation in Goa is a must visit for every tourist visiting. It feels like a typical tourist activity but it is so much more than that. Ponda’s spice plantation is said to be a historic place in Goa. Because of its humid and warm climate, it is an ideal region for cultivating a variety of spices. Here you will find plantations which run through generations of families and follow the same practices of organic farming which are passed down to them by their ancestors. 

As you begin your tour of the spice plantation, you will be provided a guide or an expert who will help you with the details of every spice and their harvesting methods. You will see the traditional tools used for drying, pounding and extracting oils from the spice plants which is a whole different experience altogether. You will breathe the aroma of spices such as fresh turmeric, cinnamon, and black pepper. When your tour comes to an end, you will be served a Goan thali full of the dishes made from these aromatic spices you saw on site. 

Sunset Cruise on the Mandovi River

The cruise that flows on the Mandovi river is known as the heart of Goa. Being the lifeline of the state, Mandovi river carries stories and secrets of the cultural past of Goa. You can easily board the cruise from the Santa Monica jetty from Panaji, which will be a two hour ride journey taking you to a different era. Explore the Portuguese style riverfront houses, colonial mansions, and the mangrove forests.

The live Goan music, and Konkani cultural performances makes this cruise ride a full cultural immersion for you. You can also find jazz evenings, sunset yoga, and stargazing activities inside the cruise, which is perfect for people who are looking for interesting activities. Whether you want a romantic outing or a sunset experience on the Mandovi river, this cruise is the best option for you to consider.