Goa Beyond Beaches: An Insider's Guide to Goa Travel

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Advisor - Rohan Jeh
Curated By

Rohan Jeh

  • Arts & Culture

  • Beaches

  • Road Trip Travel

  • LGBTQ+ Travel

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • India

  • Local Culture

Advisor - Goa Beyond Beaches: An Insider's Guide to Goa Travel
Curator’s statement

Growing up in Bombay, Goa was always close — I’ve been more times than I can count, for holidays, weddings, parties and weekend escapes. But the more I travel, the more I see how narrow the world’s view of Goa really is.

To most, it’s all beaches, parties, colonial churches. But there’s an older, richer Goa - one of ancient temples, sacred forests, Hindu traditions and peaceful homes serving generations-old vegetarian cuisine.

This guide is for travelers who think they know Goa, and are ready to rediscover it.

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Where to stay in Goa

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Things to do in Goa

Mangeshi Temple, Ponda

Visit Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple

Tucked deep in the forest near Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, this 12th-century temple is Goa’s oldest. Arrive early for the quietest experience — the morning light on the stone carvings is unforgettable.

Eat a Vegetarian Saraswat Thali in Anandashram, Panjim

This no-frills spot is beloved by locals and serves a thali that reflects Goa’s vegetarian heritage — soul food that’s simple, authentic and not on most tourist lists.

Do the Ponda Temple Circuit by Car

Rent a car and spend a day exploring Goa’s spiritual heart. Visit the temples of Mangeshi, Shantadurga, Nageshi and Mahalasa — all rebuilt during the Portuguese era, yet deeply rooted in pre-colonial devotion.

Explore the Museum of Goa (MOG), Pilerne

A bold, contemporary space showcasing Goan art, history and identity. It’s a great contrast to the ancient temples, and a reminder that Goa’s cultural story is still being written today.

Tour a Spice Farm in Ponda

Visit the Sahakari spice farm, then enjoy a homestyle Goan vegetarian thali under the trees. It’s rustic and deeply local.

Shop for Goan Pottery and Local Textiles at Goa Chitra Museum (Benaulim)

More than just a museum — it’s a living archive of traditional Goan life. You can also buy handcrafted wares from artisans keeping old techniques alive.

Catch a Local Tiatr or Traditional Music Night

If your trip aligns with local festivals or Tiatr performances (Konkani theater), don’t miss it. It’s a rare, immersive cultural window that few tourists experience.

Sunset at Cabo de Rama Fort

While it’s technically by the coast, Cabo de Rama is far removed from the beach party scene. The views are dramatic, and the history is tied to both Hindu mythology and Portuguese control.

Places to eat & drink in Goa

(From left) Gaud Saraswat Brahmin meal; Bacalhau cremôso con gambas in Nostalgia, Goa. (Photos by Thomas Zacharias)

Olive Bar & Kitchen, Vagator

A stylish spot perfect for a long, lazy lunch or sunset cocktails overlooking Vagator Beach. Mediterranean-inspired menu, elegant crowd and one of the best views in North Goa.

Mum’s Kitchen, Panjim

A well-loved restaurant preserving Goa’s culinary heritage. The menu balances Hindu and Portuguese-Goan influences beautifully — from coconut-based vegetarian curries to pork sorpotel.

Anandashram, Panjim

An old-school local favorite for authentic Saraswat Goan vegetarian thalis. No pretense here — just soulful, home-style food that’s been a part of Panjim’s fabric for decades.

Pousada by the Beach, Calangute

A peaceful, charming spot hidden off busy Calangute Beach. Fresh seafood, light Goan plates and tables that practically sit on the sand — without the chaos of the main beach shacks.

Canteen at Goa Chitra Museum, Benaulim

A rustic, local-style canteen inside one of Goa’s best ethnographic museums. Expect simple, seasonal Goan vegetarian dishes prepared the traditional way — the perfect way to round off a cultural visit.

Need to know

Getting around takes planning. Cultural Goa isn’t walkable like the beach belt. Goa’s heritage sites are spread out, and public transport is limited. Having a car makes it easy to explore at your own pace - especially for early morning temple visits.

You can easily rent a chauffeured car through apps like Uber Rentals or Savaari, but for better flexibility and rates, it’s worth leaning on trusted local contacts or advisors who can negotiate directly with drivers.

Don't shy away from staying inland. Some of Goa’s most special experiences like quiet villages, sacred groves, heritage homes are away from the coast. Most hotels like the ones featured offer shuttle services when you want to head to the beach.

Expect different ‘Goas’. North Goa is busier and more developed; South Goa is quieter and more spaced out. Both have their charm, but plan your stay depending on the vibe you prefer.

Monsoon Goa is magical, but different. From June to September, Goa turns lush and green, but some restaurants, beach shacks, and water activities pause for the season. It’s a great time for temple trails and slow travel though!

Advisor - Rohan Jeh

Travel Advisor

Rohan Jeh

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