Goa is undoubtedly the party destination of India, known for its vibrant aura and exciting nightlife, both of which center around its wonderful beaches. The state is also home to many fabulous churches and magnificent forts that are evidence of its rich heritage, culture, and history. But Goa is not only about beaches and parties. There are plenty of offbeat attractions spread across the state that are worth exploring and here we have 5 Hidden Gems that you can explore on your next trip to Goa.
1 Devil’s Finger Cave
The devil’s finger cave is an ideal place to visit with your friends and family for a rejuvenating picnic or day out while relaxing in the lap of nature. Also known as Kaurati’s cave, this place is just a seven-minute walk away from the Sinquerim fort. To get to the caves by the beach, you have to trek down a footpath which will offer you a majestic view blended with scenic beauty and a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
2. Butterfly Beach
Butterfly Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches among all the beaches of Goa which is well secluded from the public. Located just 6kms north of Palolem beach in South Goa, Butterfly Beach is a tiny beach cove with photogenic views. The Butterfly Beach was named by earlier tourists who used to visit the place and saw millions of butterflies flying on the blossoms on the hillside.
The main attraction of the beach is its famous Dolphin Play and the mesmerizing sunset. There is no direct access to the beach by road since the area is heavily forested. You can take a trek through the forest. Vehicles, not even bikes can make the trip through the forest since the road takes one through brooks, steep climbs, fields, and forested areas. Also, you can reach the beach by the water taking a short boat ride from Palolem beach.
3. Sweet Water Lake in Arambol
Locally known as Vagkolam Lake, Arambol Sweet Water Lake is one of the fascinating attractions in Goa. The outline of this lake resembles the silhouette of a playing whale or dolphin. . It is the only fresh-water lake on a beach strip of Goa in close nearness to the Arabian Sea. The lagoon is surrounded by hills of greenery and coconut groves.
Due to its secluded location, the only way to reach the beach is on foot. It’s a short walk north from Arambol Beach. A slightly trickier footpath leads to and from Querim Beach. As this freshwater lake lies near to the Arabian Sea, it is flooded with salt water quite often. It is fed by hot springs and thus the mixture of both salt and spring waters makes this lake’s water taste sweet-salty.
4. Tambadi Surla Waterfalls
Considered one of the mesmeric waterfalls in North Goa, Tambadi Surla is an offbeat attraction popular among tourists as well as locals. Hiking through Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary will take you to Tambadi Surla, which is well surrounded by dense jungle.
The waterfall is located next to the temple of Lord Mahadev near the Bhagwan Mahaveer National Park which is another tourist destination. With its eye-catching unique style of construction, this temple is best known for its marvelous architecture and is a place of religious importance.
5. Rivona caves
Located in Rivona village in South Goa, the cave is believed to be a place of meditation for a Buddhist monk, and the laterite rock inside is said to be his meditation seat. Not just that, the insides of the cave have been carved with numerous Buddhist sculptures, paintings that make the caves a treat to the eyes. Overlooking the mighty seas and bearing a unique layout, Rivona caves are among the most fascinating hidden places in Goa.
