The ultimate party destination of India, Goa is known for its peppy clubs, exuberant parties and the jaunty visitors who throng them. The congenial vibe of the state invites high-spirited folks throughout the year. So, it is quite obvious that Goa is definitely not the first choice for introverts who are seeking to recharge themselves away from the buzz and cacophony. But the perception that Goa has nothing to offer to the introverts is not true.
Goa has enough to offer to all kinds of souls, and if you are a person who loves to find their own private spot at a beautiful location, you need not head to the hills.
These are some gorgeous spots in Goa where you can head to have your 'me' time:
1. Adventures View Point, Cabo De Rama Fort
Cabo De Rama fort is frequented by quite a few visitors in the season. But take a little effort to cross the fort, and get down the stairs near the cross. It would eventually take you on a trail towards the tapering end of the cliff. The views are worth capturing, and the place will hold you for a while.
2. Tree Top, Nature Lookout, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
A forest shower is the best remedy for all your woes and worries. Take a break from the sea to experience this escape into the nature. The highlight of the trip would be climbing atop a treehouse through an erect ladder which is not meant for people with vertigo or acrophobia.
3. Grandmother's Hole Beach, Vasco
Most people head towards the north or south once they land at the airport in Dabolim. However, if you head west towards Vasco, you will find a beautiful beach unheard by any tourist. Grandmother's Hole Beach can be visited through Japanese Garden which overlooks it from a cliff, and makes for a picture perfect sight.
4. Rajbagh Beach, Cancona
Even the seasoned travellers who have been to South Goa a plenty of times would not have visited Rajbagh Beach. A few minutes away from Palolem, it is as beautiful as its more popular sibling. But far more quite. On the way, you will also find The Lalit Resort which looks like a landmark itself because of the Portuguese architecture.
5. Streets of Siolim
There are many fascinating localities in Goa, and you may have already been to Fountainhas. But if you really wish to soak yourself in an old world charm, take to the bylanes of Siolim. You will find a rustic Goan charm with old houses with thatched roofs and large gardens. Away from the noise, all you will find is old acquaintances smiling and acknowledging each other as they carry on with their daily routine.
6. The bylanes of Loutolim
If history calls out to you, and you love heritage and culture, get on a bicycle and roam around the old town of Loutolim. Start a conversation with an affable Goa aunty who might tell you age old tales of the times that Goa has witnessed.
7. Divar Island
Away from the chaos, deep into civilisation, Divar offers you a toasty afternoon in a quaint locality. Everybody knows each other here. They would notice you, a visitor here, and welcome you. Divar is the ideal place to retire, even if you plan to do it just for a day.
8. Majorda to Betalbatim
A little north to the west of Margao, lie the beautiful beaches of Majorda and Betalbatim. The continuous stretch of smooth sand bar is ideal for taking a morning walk. You can go on for kilometres enjoying the company of the smooth waves.
9. Querim
The northernmost part of the state feels more of a Konkani Maharashtrian village than Goa. You can either trek from Arambol beach and decide to come over to Querim or you can approach it via a road that would take you all along the Terekhol river that divides Maharashtra and Goa. Both the routes are scenic and soothing.
10. Horticulture Farms of Mandrem
Going to a wildlife sanctuary can get too tedious because of the distance. Why not take a mini version of the break not far from the beaches, and more easily accessible!
Mandrem has a few private horticultural farms hosting beautiful greens such as mangoes, nutmeg, arecanut, coconut, jackfruit, black pepper and orchids. Be a nice guest, get a permission from the owners and enjoy a short break into the nature.