Some offbeat things to do in Goa

Goa is a well-known tourist destination in India. It is an old city that for a long period of time remained a Portuguese colony. Home to a plethora of amazing and unique tourist attractions, the state is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations. Visit the place on your next vacation and explore Goa tourism. 

Goa is a small state located on the western coast of Indian sub-continent. In fact, it is the smallest state in India and was a Portuguese occupied colony. It remained occupied by them for nearly 500 years and because of this it is visibly different from the rest of India. The population here is a mixture of Hindus and Roman Catholics, which forms the vibrant and rich culture of the place. It remains dotted with numerous Portuguese colonies, old churches, bungalows, cafes, and boulevards and narrow streets running through these colonies, attracting a large and continuous inflow of tourists (domestic as well as international) throughout the year. In fact, it is since 1960s that the place have been bewitching backpackers; first the hippies and migrant Goans, then charter tourists, followed by pilgrims visiting Hindu shrines and Catholic churches, and finally the present day tourists that include beach lovers, culture enthusiasts, party animals, and many others. 

The state is one of the most visited places in India. Goa tourism is vast and abundant of tourist attractions. However, many recognize the state as a destination for its beautiful beaches that are about 30 in number. They are undoubtedly chief tourist attractions of the state, however, they are not the only attractions of the state and your holidays in Goa should not be constrained to them. Given below is a list of some offbeat destinations and things to do you can indulge in when you are in the state. 

Visit the sleepy little island of Chorao. Located in the North Goa region the Chorao island is a tranquil island surrounded by backwaters. It is a beautiful island and still not yet crowded by tourists. You have to take a ferry to get into the island. It is a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. There are a few small eateries where you can gusto authentic Goan cuisine. Apart from that the place is also a perfect spot for bird watching as different species of migratory birds flock the place. 

Spend some days with a Goan family staying at their home. If you are ready to shed away the luxuries of 5 Star hotel and experience the genuine hospitality of Goa, spending a few days with a Goan family and staying with them is probably the best thing to do. The locals are friendly and some genuinely feeling to let you stay with them. 

Experiencing the Sao Jao festival. In the Goan villages the Sao Jao festival is a traditional festival celebrated with much gusto. The festival is celebrated in late June and according to traditions, all newly married men have to jump into an irrigation well (not so deep) and pick up the gifts that are thrown by the villagers into the well. Chances are you might not get to experience the festival because of its time specific limitation, but you can always jump into the well with villagers consent. 

In addition to the above mentioned, there is a plethora of other things to do, such as visiting some of the local restaurants and enjoying cheap food in Goa, exploring prominent sightseeing spots on a bike, kayaking in the backwaters, try the freshly baked poi at a traditional bakery, and go island hopping.