What do you think of these offbeat experiences in Goa?

We say offbeat Goa is the best, and we have pretty good reasons to say so. But before that, mid-November to mid-February is the best time to visit Goa. And when we say best, we mean, touristy best. This is the time of year when the majority of travellers plan for Goa because the weather is just about right for the whole day at the beach. This sounds like a lot of sea, sand, sun and fun, but what if we were to tell you to ditch that and take roads less travelled in Goa?

Here are some of the best offbeat experiences you can go for when in Goa.

Witness the great migration of the Olive Ridley sea turtles to their nesting sites in Galgibaga, Morjim, Ashvem and Agonda beaches in Goa. These critically endangered sea turtles travel great distances every year from October to April, and come to these nesting sites. Kindly note that turtles come to a few beaches only. These Goan beaches are lucky enough to be able to host them. Beach authorities take utmost precaution and care when the nesting season starts.

Cabo de Rama trek is one of the lesser-known treks in Goa. It is not an easy trek as the route takes you to some of the most steep and rough climbs in Goa. But, with a little caution, this trek can turn into one of the most beautiful treks you’ve done in Goa if not in India. The stone pathway along the Cabo de Rama Fort is what you need to take. Along the way, you will come across secluded beaches and secret coves. One of them is the gorgeous Pebble Beach.

If dolphins are your thing, plan for Goa any time from October to May. Early morning boat rides out to the sea in Calangute, Palolem, Agonda, Miramar, Aguada, Dona Paula and Grande Island will give you good sightings of dolphins frolicking in the water.

Goa is best explored on foot. Don’t believe us? Get any one of the many guided city tours in Goa and explore the iconic areas such as the Old Goa, Fontainhas, Chorao Island, Divar Island. You can also go for bike tours and explore the quaint villages in the hinterlands as well as the coasts. Coastal villages will let you have unique experiences. You can help the fishermen folks catch fishes and crabs!

This one is probably the most offbeat experience you can have in Goa. You can stay at Saraya Ecostay for free! Here’s the catch: It’s a volunteer programme where you will have to enrol yourself and pick any activities you wish to help the property with. A total of four hours of work a day will get you a free stay and meals. Sounds good to us, what about you?

Monsoon in Goa can be a pain if it wants to, and it probably is not for those who aren’t the biggest fans of tropical monsoon. But, if little precipitation is no bother to you, Goa in monsoon is the smartest vacation you will take. During monsoon season, as the number of tourists dips to almost nil, that’s when the hotel room rates are the lowest. Airfare too gets way cheaper than usual. All cafes and restaurants are still open but have very few visitors. Perfect time to eat, drink and chill. Monsoon also means great rafting experiences in Mhadei river.