Step off the beaten path in Goa to discover its hidden charms

Viresh Parsekar

HIDDEN SIDES OF GOA

Hidden away from tourist hotspots in Goa are peaceful villages, lively markets, and rich cultural spaces that show a different side of this beautiful State.

Goa | villages | Aldona | Indo-Portuguese house | | Photo; Rohan Fernandes

MAPUSA’S FRIDAY MARKET

Mapusa’s Friday market is bursting with colour and life. Here, you’ll find fresh fruits, spices, handmade goods, local produce and more — making it a great place to see Goa’s local way of life.

Mapusa Market | Local Produce | Home-made products | grown in Goa | Goa | Photo: Danuska Da Gama

RANEACHE ZUEM ISLAND

Raneache Zuem Island is a quiet village with lots of greenery and houses that are as old as 300 years in a calm place that feels like time has slowed down.

Goa | islands | Raneache Zuem | village | bridge | Photo: Franky Gracias

ARISTOCRATIC HOUSES

Chandor is a quiet village known for its old Portuguese-style houses. These grand homes bear designs and details that reflect the charm of a bygone era.

Chandor| Houses of Goa | The Braganza house | Architecture | village | Indo-Portuguese home | Photo: Vrutha Karmali

THE BIG FOOT MUSEUM

The Big Foot Museum in Loutolim, South Goa, offers a glimpse into traditional Goan life through life-sized statues and open-air exhibits.

Big Foot Museum | Loutolim | South Goa | villages | heritage | Photo: Lakshmi G Sardesai

SALT PANS

Discover the age-old process of salt-making in Goa’s tranquil salt pans — a quiet escape that offers insight into a timeless local tradition.

Goa | salt pans | traditions | Batim | villages | occupations | Photo: Viresh Parsekar

REAL GOA

So, the next time you are in Goa, skip the usual touristy spots and discover a calmer side of the State in its little-known places that offer a glimpse into the real Goa.

Goa | village | ferry | Divar | Mandovi river | mangroves | Photo: Viresh Parsekar

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