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by urbanaut How incredible is the revitalised Aguada Port and Jail complex - or simply, The Aguad. An erstwhile Portuguese jail situated right on the rocks at Sinquierim (lucky inmates!) is now a museum and public space. Their programming is on point, there are restaurants and pop-ups, and their concerts under the stars shouldn’t be missed. We love cultural spaces that add so much to a place like Goa - rich in history, but lacking enough storytellers.
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by urbanaut A fantastic museum attached to a centuries old church. You can visit on a self-guided trip (entry fees applicable) and they also have guided walks available. Sweet little on-site cafe.
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by urbanaut The best local Goan sea food on the Ashwem beach stretch, Babu boasts of amazing prawn curries, calamari, chilli garlic noodles, and the best nutella pancake (basically a crepe) on the strip. Has beach beds at no charge and serves food right through the day. It has small beach huts at the back which one can grab to spend a night on the beach. Basic budget rooms for up for thetaking.
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by urbanaut A co-working cafe set in a heritage bungalow in Anjuna - Clay is perfect for creative professionals and digital nomads. Their in-house cafe has delicious home style food and they’ve got Internet and spaced out seating.
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by urbanaut Eco friendly home stay with a farm to table concept. You can visit for a day trip or stay for longer depending on your schedule but expect nature walks, peace and quiet in the midst of the Western Ghats.
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by urbanaut This four-tiered waterfall one of Mollem National Park’s most-frequented natural attractions. The milky white waters, coloured so because of the speed and altitude, tame into a deep green pool near the base. It’s the reward after a long hike, so we dare say you’ll want to take a dip in the inviting natural pool. Dudhsagar is also accessible from Karnataka.
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by urbanaut This ‘spiritual dance temple’ is the go-to spot for Psy trance lovers. One floor is a shack (skip the food) and the rest of the floor is on the beach
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by urbanaut A stunning drive on great roads take you to this self-contained ecosystem. The Savoi Plantation is 10 hectares of pepper, turmeric, ginger, nutmeg, star fruit and a host of other spices and produce. Their local lunch buffet uses all their own produce as seasonal ingredients. While the lunch itself is simple, it’s a beautiful, peaceful experience - and the plantation is truly something else. A refuge and haven that showcases the real side of Goa.
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by urbanaut An absolute must-do in Goa, Terra Conscious offers ethical outdoor activities that provide an opportunity to engage with the local biodiversity and natural environments. Whether you choose the ocean biodiversity experience (dolphin watching), the backwater kayaking or cycling trail, or the conservation diver programme - these guys have something for everyone . There’s no better way to experience the ‘other’ side of Goa.
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by urbanaut This quaint little café and co-working space overlooks stunning sunsets on the Mandovi river, but there’s as much inspiration inside as outside. Walk in and you’ll find a plethora of seating options, from metal chairs to mind your posture on to low sofas perfect for informal discussions. They have all the trappings of the ideal coworking space– free WiFi, loads of electric sockets and lockers to stash your valuables in. A quieter area tucked in a corner of the restaurant doubles up as a great meeting space, but we dare say you’ll be drawn back to the mainland by the scents wafting out of the kitchen. Their food menu runs the gamut of dishes and flavours, but the local twists are what set them apart (Kulcha Tacos, anyone?)
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by urbanaut A very relaxed and unpretentious co-working space and cafe in the scenic village of Parra. They encourage those in the creative space to use their location to work and be inspired.
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by urbanaut An eco-conscious wellness store that also doubles up as a fitness studio. It’s an inviting space heaped with sweet-smelling bath and body products, supplements, food ingredients and home decor. They also have farm-fresh fruits and veggies and vegan/organic gift hampers. The defining principle of the store is that every product is made in India — so you can expect to find something from every corner of the country.
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by urbanaut Felix is a massive villa in Anjuna that plays a whole host of roles, depending on what you’re there for. You’ll find a co-working space, an art gallery, a golden oldies bar, a restaurant and grill, even an art gallery and an artisanal coffee shop. It’s a confluence of everything that makes Goa what it is, really.
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by urbanaut Sampoorna Yoga is a training school rooted in yogic tradition. They offer training courses and online workshops for folks interested in taking up yoga as a profession. Their yoga village is a gorgeous property on Agonda Beach, with more than 40 cottages — indeed, it sets the tone for all the training and purpose alignment that’s to come!
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by urbanaut Housed in an Indo-Portuguese mansion over a century old, Sadhana Dell ‘Arte is a cultural space and art centre that’s pretty much a creator’s paradise. They host great events and fests over the year, from world music to interactive theatre.
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by urbanaut The definition of old-school Goa, Cantare is warm and inviting. Known for their live music nights, and their friendly neighborhood vibe - this is a great spot to go to when you want something low-key, unpretentious, and fun
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by urbanaut Shala 142 is a yoga studio and event space nestled in the heart of Assagao and its lush environs. It’s perfect for hosting (or attending!) workshops, retreats, yoga classes and meditation sessions.
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by urbanaut Housed in – you guessed it – an old rice mill, this lovingly-restored café-bar is Goa’s go-to for jazz Saturdays and weekend brekkie. The 1950s-era building is slap-bang in the middle of a charming village, with lush green views outside and brick-clad walls and rustic decor inside. Architect and owner Raya Shankhwalker’s love for coffee bleeds into the menu, as they source their beans from a nearby roastery in small batches so your morning cuppa is always fresh and energising.
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by urbanaut A little-known gem of a spot with a little beach locked in by stunning turquoise waters and lush green forests. It’s offbeat, but worth straying off the beaten path for. You might encounter dolphins, and you definitely will experience gorgeous sunset views. There’s plenty else to do nearby, like making a trip to Conco Island and Leopard Valley.
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by urbanaut It’s in the name - this pet-friendly café, bar and bookstore is also a great co-working space and hosts some fantastic events (talk about being an over-achiever)! We love their Saturday night jazz, their active listening sessions and their indie movies in the open-air. But if you also want to pull out an old book, settle into a corner with a drink or a cuppa and your doggo by your side - you’d be equally at home.
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by urbanaut Known for its wild trance parties, Hilltop transforms into a magical market every Friday (Known as the Goa Collective Bazaar). From all kinds of curios, accessories, art, jewellery, clothing to amazing house items, all sold by the artists who make them, it’s truly a place to spend a whole evening walking around, meeting the artisans and finding one of a kind pieces. The food and drinks section is amazing, with Luna’s Bar serving top cocktails, and plenty of options to eat, ranging from Italian, to Indian to Burmese and Grills. Live music shows happen through the evening and post 10pm an area becomes a cool funky disco/techno party, going on till about 1 am. Entry is Rs.100/ adult and free for little kids.
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by urbanaut Cafe, treehouses, wood fired pizzas, organic garden at the back - just a laid-back Goa spot ideal to while away an afternoon
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by urbanaut This Goan favourite is a bookstore and a cafe all rolled into one. Their warm and welcoming atmosphere is made more interesting by the shelves of books on display. Literati also has a collection of precious antiquarian books for purchase. They have a running list of books on their website– we spotted a 1931 edition of Dante’s The Divine Comedy.
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by urbanaut The stunning Tambdi Surla waterfall is a welcome sight to behold when you’re all out of breath after a trying hike. During the monsoon, the near-white waters stand out against the elude green backdrop and almost opaque mist. You can’t get too close to the waterfall but the distance vantage point only adds to the impact, we think.
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by urbanaut A breathtaking 12th-century temple in the heart of Mollem National Park. It’s is beautifully wrought in stone, retaining intricate carvings of elephants, chains and lotuses that date back to the Kadamban period. It’s said to be the last of its kind standing in Goa, the rest having been destroyed.
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by urbanaut Goa’s relatively calm coast line may not be the pro surfers go-to destination for the ultimate surf experience, however for us mere mortals it’s the perfect place to manage standing up on a surf board without causing to much damage (apart from one’s ego). The team at Octopus surf are great fun and super helpful when it comes to learning to surf.
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by urbanaut Divar Island is by far one of Goa’s best-kept secrets. The island on the Mandovi river has a raw and authentic charm that hasn’t much changed since the 16th century. Gorgeous Portuguese homes share space with overgrown patches of lush land and narrow hilly trails. There’s plenty to do there– if you like sightseeing, you’ll love the time-old churches. Adventurers might like hiking along trails and spending time by the water. There are quite a few guest homes to choose form if you’d like to stay the night– you’ll experience again hospitality at its finest.
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by urbanaut Probably the most aristocratic mansion in Goa that was built before the Taj Mahal. Visit their museum or even book a room to stay in for a taste of old Goan ‘royalty’
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by urbanaut A little known small river that snakes down the Salcette - in the company of local oyster and clam harvesters, throw in crab nets and wait for them to fill. If you have a keen eye - look out for river otters and the fishing eagles
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by urbanaut If you find the regular beach at Benaulim in South Goa too crowded, then head south for 3km and take the turn off Holy Trinity Church to this beach
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by urbanaut Cosmosaic founded and run by Shallu Sharma was started in 2009 because of her love affair with mosaics. Her eye for detail and colour are indescribable. She chose to be in Goa because of its history of mosaic art which offered her a canvas to explore new possibilities, both in restoring & in innovating the art of mosaics.
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by urbanaut Sylvia Kerkar ceramics does a 2 hour class that allows you to explore hand building techniques and attempting the potters wheel.
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by urbanaut If sourdough bread is your thing then look no further. Sujit Sumitran - known as the bread whisperer - is known for his workshops for bread enthusiasts. (Specific address is House no. 337)
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by urbanaut Located in the Sunaparanta Centre for the Arts, this gorgeous cafe is a hub for some great coffee and cakes/ food. Whether you want to just work or catch a quick coffee date with someone, it is ideal for a cool hangout.
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by urbanaut The Mapusa Friday market is one of the most vibrant markets around. The variety of everything to choose from is mind boggling and one can spend an entire day there just taking photos, shopping or chatting with the locals.
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by urbanaut Hidden gem of a beach in South Goa encloses by forested cliffs and with a stunning emerald lagoon on the beach.
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by urbanaut Known as ‘Keri beach’ to the locals, this is the largest northernmost beach in Goa. There are no shacks - it’s just a delightful, peaceful getaway
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by urbanaut Yes there are 100s of shacks dotted along Goa’s coastline. This one scores for being conveniently located but just outside the tourist fringes. They also serve great (albeit the service is slow) food.
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by urbanaut The recently restored fort is the oldest fort in Goa and well worth a visit. Cannons, death holes, panoramic sea views and a Mario Miranda gallery (the beloved cartoonist) all make for a well-spent few hours
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by urbanaut This museum is no secret - indeed, they advertise all over the State. Nevertheless, it’s a good spot for art enthusiasts as it hosts a bunch of travelling exhibitions and some experimental work too.
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by urbanaut Built in the 17th Century, Braganza House is the biggest Portuguese mansion of its kind in Goa. Visit to regale in the grandeur and glory of Goa’s colonial past.
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by urbanaut Offbeat electric bike tours in different parts of India, including trips to nearby Divar island. A great way to spend your day(s) in Goa - cycling in small groups with plenty of space to yourself!
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by urbanaut South Goa’s oldest surf school run by a crew of passionate and knowledgeable locals on one of the calmer beaches of Goa will take you from flat out to standing in (good) time
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by urbanaut Goa’s Bookworm library is a prominent feature in many book-loving Goans’ childhood memories. It houses more than 25,000 books, nearly all of which have been carefully curated by co-founder Sujata Noronha. Bookworm also doubles up as a space for creative learning and hosts workshops for a host of arts and crafts.
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by urbanaut Set on a beautiful stretch of sand, Palm Grove has lovely bungalows with verandahs for those who want to stay right on the beach. They also have a restaurant and bar for day visitors who want to make the most of this calm spot in Ashvem.
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by urbanaut Unofficial Israeli ‘ambassador’ of Goa Moshe, runs this charming cafe slash community centre and yoga studio. The food is fabulous with Levantine inspiration, they have a playground area for kids, yoga classes at their studio and even a library. Perfect for breakfasts or as a co-working space.
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by urbanaut Go on an interesting walk - these guys operate about two walks a week. You could try a city walk, or visit a nearby island or experience a festival like a local would. There are plenty of options catering to different interests
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by urbanaut Also known as Goa’s Latin Quarter, this picturesque neighbourhood has definitely made its way to your Instagram feed at some point. Recognized as a UNESCO Heritage Zone, colourful Portuguese homes line the quiet cobbled streets. Make a visit to go back in time.
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by urbanaut Co-working space featuring a plant based cafe and coffee shop nestled in a cozy forested area of Porvorim. They host interesting talks, workshops and events (like a clothes swap!)
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by urbanaut This little known fort is a well kept secret. The fort itself is in ruins so it makes for an interesting place to explore with hardly any tourists. The drive takes you through spectacular countryside
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by urbanaut World-class whisky, made in India. Jim Murray, author of the Whisky Bible and the most renowned name in the world of whisky, describes the Paul John ‘Mithuna’ whisky as the ‘rarest of things’ and awarded it the World’s 3rd Finest Whisky in 2021. Make a trip to their charming distillery where the magic happens and allow yourself to be consumed by their passion and commitment to producing the finest quality product.
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by urbanaut Right next to another favourite, Rudy’s, is this whimsical wonderland by the Chapora jetty. House of Chapora attracts a diverse, alternative crowd thanks to its eclectic programming - disco, funk, tribal, techno, jazz, or a live band can grace different nights of the week. The decor is upcycled and art-filled.
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by urbanaut A stunning beach front property which has about 20+ rooms - a combination of concrete structures and beach huts overlooking the sea. Daily yoga classes in either of their two shalas are a must; their main yoga shala boasts the best views in Goa. Their restaurant Le Atelier is open through the day serving a mix of Goan and European Food. Rooms are available to be booked, best to check in advance as they fill up through the season with yoga retreats.
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by urbanaut Large collection focusing on Goa’s traditional agrarian technology and lifestyle
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by urbanaut Colva Beach can be overrun with tourists - but if you head 300m north then off Longuinhos Beach resort you find a tiny fishing jetty
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by urbanaut This spot has one of the most breathtaking view points in Goa. It overlooks the Chapora river, Morjim and the Chapora fort. Cannot get better!!
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by urbanaut Centrally located co-working space with lush forest views, stable wi-fi (2 connections!), Goan snacks from the ladies of Parra and so much more. This centre is all about sustainable design - entirely solar powered with electric vehicle chargers! We love this new offering (and there’s a lovely team behind it).
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by urbanaut Equilibrium Climbing Station is an excellent and professional climbing gym in Anjuna. It has a large welcoming space with a huge two-sided climbing wall of 16ft tall and about 100ft in total. It has a huge variety of climbing routes graded and marked according to difficulty level. So it doesn't matter if its your first time climbing or if you are a regular, there is something for everyone. Interestingly they change the configurations of the holds and routes so you will never get bored and will always have new problems to solve and routes to complete. Equilibrium Climbing Station is fun and provides an excellent workout. You can use your own climbing shoes if you have them or you can rent a pair from them (they have a large collection with all sizes). Just remember to carry your own pair of socks.
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by urbanaut Interested in upping your fitness game? Try your hand at Calisthenics, a body weight based workout that focuses on skills like pull-ups, pushups and dips eventually leading to advance skills like handstands, levers, planches and even human flags! 🤸🏽‍♀️ Best suited for people who live in Goa. Get in touch with Wesley if you're interested!
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by urbanaut Palacio do Deão houses within its walls a history of philanthropy, culture and grandeur. It’s more than 200 years old, and was built by a Portuguese nobleman on the banks of the beautiful Kushavati river. After being a home for Ciceroys, Chaplains and then destitute children, the building was privatised and opened to public to wander through. We’d also recommend dining at the Indo-Portuguese restaurant on the premises — they’re known to serve delicious meals and great cocktails with a homely warmth.
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by urbanaut The founders of Maker’s Asylum moved from Bombay to Goa and set up their well-loved workshop space in Moira. They host really excellent, immersive workshops (like woodworking sessions!) and also have a lovely cafe on site called Drill Press Cafe with a garden out back.
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by urbanaut Nilaya is a nature resort that's hidden away on the hills of Arpora. Perfect for a quiet, nature immersive getaway. They have a variety of rooms with an old world charm and even a few luxury tents tucked away within the trees where you can sometimes see peacocks roaming about while you're sipping your morning coffee. It's quite the vibe.
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by urbanaut Looking to start your mornings or end your evenings with some adrenaline pumping fun workouts? Hop in for a trial class at 360 Fitness, surrounded by open fields and greenery! Workouts range from Animal flow, Teakwondo, Agility, Body weighted or Challenge workouts ( which can also be a beach workout ) Most suited to people who live in Goa to really feel the benifits of these workouts. I've personally tried this for almost two years and absolutely loved it, not to mention all the strength I've gained and weight I've lost ✨
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by urbanaut Housed in the charming Centre for Indo-Portuguese Arts (CIPA), Madragoa is the world’s first house of Fado - the iconic musical genre of Portugal and the Mando - a similarly iconic genre of music from Goa. The concert room has a great ambience, housing 40 seats in cozy theatre style seating and during the break you’ll also be fed some authentic Indo-Portuguese snacks and sangria.
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by urbanaut Close to the famous Basilica of Bom Jesus but perched on top of a hill with better views and fewer people - a visit to this abandoned church is still a truly spiritual experience. You can see the white tops of other churches and the river that goes by
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by urbanaut From the architecture to the interior design, The Cube Gallery is a must visit destination for art enthusiasts - hosting exhibitions for paintings, ceramics, sculpture, and furniture.
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by urbanaut Established by Aditya Roy (Founder and Head Instructor) Lighthaven is a school that teaches martial arts such as Pekiti Tirsia Kali, Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for all ages. It holds regular classes as well as residential courses for those who want a more intensive training experience. Set on the terrace of a house in a quiet lane in Nachinola, it provides a safe training space where one can learn how to defend themselves as well as join the ever growing martial arts community in Goa.
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by urbanaut Goa might have gentrified over the years - with more artisanal coffee shops than beach clubs, but the dance-loving, party-all-night ravers still have plenty of options to choose from. Aura Beach Cafe is an open air party spot right on the beach where you can find yourself from sunset to sunrise the next morning. They usually host a good lineup of DJs and electronic music act and their location is perfect for an all-nighter - right on Anjuna beach.
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