These places near Old Goa will captivate you with their charm

WORLD FAMOUS

Old Goa, famed for its majestic churches, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. That apart, it was the former capital of Goa, which means it has a rich history, too.

OLD GOA & BEYOND

Visitors who come to Old Goa are in awe of the beautiful churches and ancient monuments. But, wait, there's more. If you're in Old Goa, don't miss out on some tourist-worthy places in the neighbourhood.

1. DIVAR ISLAND

Located very close to Old Goa, Divar is a beautiful island with lush paddy fields, quaint Indo-Portuguese houses and more. And so, it is hardly surprising that scenes for a couple of Bollywood movies were also shot in this picturesque island.

2. BATIM

Batim is a sleepy village, situated a couple of miles from Old Goa. Once here, don't forget to check out the traditional way of harvesting salt from the local salt pans. While the Batim lake is a famous birdwatching spot, a road flanked by coconut trees will have you think you've reached Parra's popular Maddani road.

3. CARAMBOLIM LAKE

The presence of several species of birds makes Carambolim lake a must-see, especially for birdwatchers. Evenings and early mornings are also a great time to bask in the peace and tranquility of the environs.

4. ST ESTEVAM ISLAND

Just like Divar island, St Estevam is another island with an abundance of gorgeous views of the river and lush greenery. In addition, the fort of Juve/ Jua offers breathtaking views of the surroundings.

5. DR SALIM ALI BIRD SANCTUARY

A haven for migratory birds and birdwatchers, alike, the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in Chorao island, with its dense mangroves, plays host to several species of migratory birds. Truly a treat for nature-lovers!

NEXT: Bicholim 'Gudi Padwa', a showcase of cultural heritage