A vacation in Goa is a dream come true for many. The gorgeous skyline, golden sand beaches, palm trees and tons of water sport activities allure a traveler to visit this beauty at least once in a lifetime. But this charming description of the city isn’t just restricted to its beaches, pubs, and nightlife. There is yet another equally captivating side of Goa which is definitely worth exploring for an avid traveler. This post intends to unmask the rich cultural heritage of Goa which makes it a complete tourist destination.
Yes, there’s yet another part of the city – the “cultural Goa” – which is enthralling and absolutely delightful. Let’s get onboard an unforgettable cultural trip.
Here we bring to you the 10 best things to see and do ‘culturally’ when in Goa.
1) Take a stroll through Old Goa
A heritage wall through the once-lively city of old Goa is definitely recommended to get an overview of the city’s history. In the 16th century, Goa was the headquarters of the Portuguese who, under their rule, built several churches and convents, the architecture of which is worth admiration even today.
The classic ones worth a visit, some of which have even been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, include Se Cathedral, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi. Don’t forget to visit the Archaeological Museum inside the latter’s premises, as well as the Christian Art Museum in the refurbished Convent of Saint Monica.
Also, you’d love to get a glimpse at the only remains that exist today of the Bijapur Sultanate, the founder of Old Goa in the 15th century (before it was taken over by the Portuguese).
2) Admire it’s rich history through art museums
For art lovers, Goa is a blessing and they can’t do without attending the unique interactive Museum of Goa that brings alive the city’s splendid historic past through a permanent exhibition of contemporary art. Besides, for those who wish to buy art to take home as souvenirs, the annual Affordable Art Fest shouldn’t be missed.
3) Learn about the Goan farming lifestyle
Did you know that the city’s economy was traditionally farming-based before depending heavily on tourism revenue? And the Goa Chitra Museum brilliantly displays this way of life of the Goans. There are more than 4,000 artifacts on exhibit, including very old tools and equipment used by farmers and kitchen utensils. There’s even a functional organic farm near the museum to allow visitors to better understand the working of these artifacts. You can even experience living at a Goan farm on one of the several farm stay options.
4) Enjoy the spicy Goan cuisine
Goan culture is largely defined by its spicy seafood and the lip-smacking fish curry and rice immediately draw attention. This staple diet of most Goans is today a highly popular tourist demand too. The Goan cuisine is considerably non-vegetarian, drawing diverse influence from its Hindu, Muslim and Portugal rulers.
You can’t leave Goa without trying Xacutti (coconut-based curry), Cafreal (marinated and fried/grilled fish), and Sorpotel (stew). Travellers love Chourico (sausages) and Goan Pav (bread). What’s more? There’s the traditional world-famous Feni, the unofficial drink of the state. This uniquely aromatic (with a rather strong smell) spirit is exclusively produced in Goa by Goans from the cashew fruit or the sap from coconut palms.
5) Visit the musical restaurants for an authentic Jazz experience
If you’re a jazz lover, you’d love live performances at a number of authentic Goan musical restaurants. Jazz is a way of life for Goans, for several musicians learned western music styles under the Portuguese. The old Gonsalves Mansion in Campal near Panjim is renowned as the Home of Jazz and worth a visit. Besides the restaurants and inns, you can enjoy the annual International Jazz Day every year on April 30.
6) Catch the Hindu influence on Goan culture in its oldest Hindu temple
Goa is defined by its churches and convents, primarily. It’s an absolute delight for a traveller to see the oldest existing Hindu temple in Goa, concealed in a forest at Tambdi Surla near Mollem National Park. The exquisite carvings at this temple of Lord Shiva belong to the 13th century! Interestingly, the structure survived both Muslim and Portuguese invasions, believed to be accredited to its remote location.
7) Celebrate Goan festivals with the locals
What better way to dive into the Goan culture than being a part of its festivals, rejoicing with the Goans? Every year on June 24, the Sao-Jao festival is celebrated where men jump into village wells to bring out Feni alcohol bottles. And the Goa carnival is popular worldwide, held in February., held in February., held in February. Hindus celebrate the spring festival Shigmo, the Goan version of Holi.
8) Read up on Goan culture
Bookworms would love a visit to Goa’s Central Library, which also conducts author events and intriguing seminars and talks on Goan past. Besides, there are several local bookstores featuring amazing paperback collections on Goan historic heritage.
9) Gaze at the state’s wildlife
When not on a Goan beach or in the water, you can enjoy admiring the wildlife and picturesque beauty of nature at Wildernest, a popular excursion from Goa. Then there are bird-watching trails at Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary for bird lovers.
10) Go shopping
End your tour with some souvenir shopping in various local markets where you can take a plunge into authentic Goan stuff – from its tasty street food to colorful arts and crafts to discount sales on traditional clothes!
Conclusion
More often than not, a travel itinerary for Goa entails a visit to the beaches, a try at the numerous water sports, and an experience of its vivacious nightlife – pubs, bars et al. Not many consider peeking into the old Goan heritage replete with magnificent forts, temples, and churches, or trying out the oh-so-appetizing Goan cuisine. Let’s do this on the next Goan holiday and discover the state from a completely different angle.
