Goa is well known for its serene beaches and wild night parties. However, if you want to get away from the hullabaloo of the tourists, crowded beaches and the people who get in the way of your sightseeing, here are a few off beat treks around Goa. Embark on these treks and explore the pristine part of Goa.
1. Dudhsagar Falls Trek
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Dudhsagar Falls at an impressive 310 metres are the highest falls in Goa. Beginning at the base of Dhudsagar Falls, the trek takes you up to Kuveshi Falls via Castle Rock. Atop the waterfall, view of the entire coast will leave you spell bound. On this calm and peaceful route, you can get a chance to be entirely one with nature. This 14 km long trek will tire you out so be sure to carry necessary supplies with you.
2. Ocean Trek to Neuti Beach
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A trek that is unlike any other, this will take you along the banks of the ocean along a peaceful and slightly rocky path. The small hill takes you on a path along the ocean coast. The trek is a leisurely one and you can stroll with a friend while having a casual conversation overlooking the endless ocean. At the end of your trek, will be a remote beach with glistening sand, untouched by tourists or any form of human tarnation.
3. Chorla Ghats
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If you want to discover one of the most nature rich places in Goa, the Chorla Ghats are it. The highest mountains in Goa, they offer some challenging treks that enthusiasts will definitely enjoy. The trek ends at the peak of the beautiful Vahegiri Mountains. The beauty of the trek lies in the vast amount of flora and fauna that can be found along the way. It is said that there are several tigers still donning the area, so if you do visit, be wary of the big cats!
4. Valpoi to Krishnapur Canyons
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One of the most unique treks in the country, the destination will leave you at a loss for words. Valpoi, the starting point of the trek is situated to the north east of Goa and offers a stunning view of the tropical paradise that surrounds it. After a 15 km eastward trek, you will reach the Krishnapur Canyons, home to one of the few canyons in the country. Bonus: the rocks are adorned with pre historic era hand etchings. The canyon possesses water pools which are completely natural and biomes of aquatic life. Carry loads of water and snacky supplies to keep you energized through the way.
5. Keri to Arambol Trek
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Beginning at the most non commercialized beach in Goa, the trek will take you up through scenic places in the Paliem Hills and down to the Arambol Beach, which is home to a crystal clear freshwater lake just 100 meters from the ocean. The trek provides surreal views of coastal Goa, still far from the light of development and tourists. Here, you can have a peaceful lunch in the light warmth of the afternoon sun as the sounds of waves overwhelm you.
6 Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
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This biodiversity hotspot is located 50 km from Panaji, the capital of Goa. The trek to the sanctuary begins at low rise area and gradually becomes steeper along the 15 km route. It takes the trekker through valleys, hills and waterfalls, each more exotic than the previous. Upon reaching the sanctuary, one can see a plethora of fauna including some endangered species such as the Bengal Tiger. Another attraction en route is the Fort of Satregad which was used as a refuge during sieges during the Portugese and British rule.
7. Sanguem Trek
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One of the more challenging treks and recommended for amateur mountaineers, it can provide an exhilarating experience for the untrained trekker as well. Sanguem is situated in South Goa and the path is along several landmarks of interest such as Palcio do Deao and Tambadi Surla Mahadev Temple where trekkers can take a break and absorb the culture of the place. Further along the trek are more rocky areas where one must tread carefully.
If you are tired of the throngs of tourists, beach parties and want to eschew the touristy stuff all together, these are some of the must undertake treks in Goa. You will see Goa under a new light and of course bump up the likes on your Instagram with some unique clicks.
