Goa in the monsoon transforms into a lush paradise that captivates the senses on multiple levels, engaging the mind, body, and spirit. The majestic coastlines take on a sombre beauty as rain-filled clouds roll in from the Arabian Sea. Everywhere you turn, the landscape is alive with a lush tapestry of vibrant greens. The rain breathes life into the surrounding waterfalls, transforming them into cascading downpours with thunderous roars echoing through the verdant hills. Historic landmarks and ancient caves such as the awe-inspiring Arvalem and Lamgau caves, which date back to the sixth century and are draped in mist, appear to whisper tales from centuries past. There is a hint of petrichor in the air, making everything seem light and crisp.
TheGlitz offers a curated selection of experiences for a serene escape. From boutique stays to secluded cafés and cultural hubs, immerse yourself in the region’s unique flavours and atmosphere. Perfect for creating cherished moments with loved ones, these options invite you to explore Goa’s heart, revealing its rich culture and tranquil side. Embrace a deeper, more authentic Goan adventure away from the typical tourist spots. Join us as we discover Goa’s hidden treasures beyond its famous beaches.
Boutique Stays
Casa Severina
Casa Severina, nestled in Calangute, Goa, is a hidden gem that offers an enchanting blend of old-world charm and contemporary luxury. This boutique retreat showcases the best of traditional Goan architecture while providing all the modern comforts discerning travellers seek. With just 19 meticulously designed rooms, Casa Severina promises an intimate, almost family-like experience, far removed from the impersonal nature of large resorts.
The property exudes the warmth and grace of a well-loved family home, where personalised service is not just a promise but a way of life. Every corner of Casa Severina tells a story, from its carefully preserved architectural details to its thoughtfully curated decor. Here, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Goan heritage, experiencing firsthand the region’s unique culture and warm hospitality. It’s more than just a stay; it’s a journey into the heart of Goa’s vernacular traditions.
Fort Tiracol
Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel, perched on Goa’s northernmost tip, is a captivating blend of history and luxury. This former Portuguese fortress, now transformed into an exclusive boutique hotel, offers a truly unique escape. Accessible only by a short ferry ride, it feels like stepping into another world.
The hotel’s seven rooms and suites, each bearing distinctive names, showcase a harmonious fusion of Portuguese influence and modern design. From every window, guests are treated to breathtaking vistas of the Arabian Sea and the tranquil Tiracol River.
Culinary delights await at the Tavern restaurant and Garden Café, where local flavours mingle with international cuisine. Beyond relaxation, Fort Tiracol invites exploration through curated experiences like heritage walks, river cruises, and beach excursions. Here, history comes alive, and every stay becomes a memorable journey through time and culture.
Places to Explore
Arvalem Caves
The Arvalem Caves, also known as the Rock Cut Caves, are a significant historical and archaeological site nestled near the picturesque Arvalem Waterfall in Goa’s Bicholim Taluka. They stand as silent witnesses to centuries of spiritual devotion. Dating back to the 6th century, these rock-cut marvels offer a unique glimpse into the region’s rich religious tapestry, where Buddhist and Hindu influences intertwine seamlessly.
Carved into the rocky hillside, the caves comprise five distinct compartments, each a testament to ancient craftsmanship. Intricate carvings adorn the walls, telling tales of bygone eras, while a revered Shivalinga speaks to the site’s enduring Hindu significance. The caves’ dual heritage as both a Buddhist retreat and a Hindu sanctuary adds layers of cultural complexity to their allure.
The tranquil surroundings enhance the caves’ mystical atmosphere, inviting visitors to step back in time and contemplate the spiritual journeys of those who sought enlightenment within these stone chambers. For history buffs and curious travellers alike, the Arvalem Caves offer a profound connection to Goa’s lesser-known, yet deeply fascinating, ancient past.
Lamgau Caves
The Lamgau Caves, located in Goa’s Lamgau village, offer a captivating glimpse into ancient Buddhist monastic life. Carved from unyielding basalt rock between the 6th and 7th centuries AD, these caves stand as a testament to the incredible skill and devotion of their creators.
The complex unfolds as a series of chambers, each telling its own story through intricate carvings and architectural marvels. A pillared hall serves as the centrepiece, its walls adorned with mythological figures that have silently observed the passage of time for over a millennium.
Once bustling with the activities of Buddhist monks, these viharas (monastic dwellings) provided sacred spaces for meditation and religious practices. Though they fell into obscurity for centuries, their rediscovery in the 20th century has reignited interest in this remarkable site.
Today, under the protective care of the Archaeological Survey of India, the Lamgau Caves invite visitors to step back in time, offering a serene retreat for both historical exploration and spiritual contemplation.
Rivona Caves
The Rivona Caves, tucked away in South Goa, offer a fascinating window into the region’s Buddhist past. Carved from laterite stone in the 6th or 7th century, these ancient rock-cut chambers stand as silent witnesses to the spread of Buddhism in Goa. Also known as the Pandava Caves, they once served as a tranquil monastery where monks meditated and shared teachings. The presence of a distinctive “pitha” or teacher’s seat, underscores their role as a centre of learning and spiritual growth.
Today, these caves attract history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike. Surrounded by lush greenery, they provide a serene escape from the bustling beaches, inviting visitors to connect with Goa’s lesser-known but equally rich cultural heritage. The Rivona Caves remind us that Goa’s allure extends far beyond its famous coastline, deep into its storied past.
Aguad Port & Jail Complex
The picturesque Aguad Port & Jail Complex in Candolim is one place where you can spend many an hour soaking in the state’s rich heritage and culture. Nestled on the estuary of the Mandovi River meeting the Arabian Sea, the renovated historic Aguad Port & Jail Complex is now a vibrant hub with myriad activities to engage in.
Housed within erstwhile jail cells, the Aguad Interactive Museum (AIM) is a state-of-the art digital museum that comprehensively captures Goa’s history. Also on display at Aguad are three exceptional exhibitions: ‘Indian Fashion, Timeless Elegance’, which celebrates intricate craftsmanship; ‘Sahitya Chitravali’, where the worlds of literature and art blend; and ‘Kamal’, which connects visitors with India’s culturally versatile flower, the lotus.
Aguad also has a cinema in the ‘Kaal Kothri’, with daily documentary screenings of the Goa Freedom Struggle and the Forts of Goa. Weather permitting, there are experiential and educational heritage walks that take place around the complex. For those wishing to partake in a meal, Aguad has several options to choose from, from coffee shops to bistros. All in all, Aguad serves as a one-stop shop for all creative expressions, allowing one to spend the better part of their day there.
CAFÉS
Carpe Diem Art Café
Carpe Diem Art Café in Majorda, Goa, offers a relaxed and artistic environment perfect for unwinding. The café serves a diverse menu with options like hearty sandwiches, sweet and savoury waffles, and beverages. It also features a lifestyle store with unique items including apparel, ceramics, and gifts. The café hosts various cultural and artistic events, making it a hub for creativity and socializing. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, it provides a welcoming space for both locals and tourists to enjoy good food and art.
Artjuna Café
Artjuna is a vibrant fusion of café culture, boutique shopping, and yoga nestled in the heart of Anjuna, Goa. With its bohemian ambiance, eclectic menu featuring organic and vegetarian delights, and curated selection of handcrafted goods, Artjuna offers a holistic experience for visitors seeking relaxation, nourishment, and connection. Whether indulging in freshly brewed coffee, browsing unique artisanal products, or participating in yoga classes and workshops, Artjuna embodies the essence of Goa’s laid-back lifestyle, making it a must-visit destination for travellers and locals alike.
Cover image: Lynn via Unsplash
