1. Divar Island

Tucked away in dense woods, this island on the Mandovi River is the only major island in Goa that is not connected by road. It is one of the best places where you could rent bicycles and enjoy a scenic ride on Divar Island.

2. Querim Beach

Known for its serene beach, rocky outcrops, and sandy coastline, Querim Beach is the largest northernmost beach in Goa. It is considered to be one of the best places for surfing.

3. Fort Tiracol

Take a ferry ride across the Terekhol River from Querim. After a short drive into the hills, you will reach Fort Tiracol – a Portuguese era fort that was once the site of many historic Satyagraha marches during the freedom struggle of Goa.

4. Sao Joao festival

It is an annual Catholic religious festival celebrated in June as a tribute to Saint John, the Baptist. In this, newly married Goan Catholic men jump into local wells to recover gifts thrown in by the villagers.

5. Galgibaga beach

Located in South Goa in the Canacona region, Galgibaga is one of the lesser-known beaches known as the nesting ground for endangered Olive-Ridley turtles. The serenity of the beach makes it a perfect picnic spot.

6. Candolim Beach Dolphin tour

Get into the boat at Candolim Beach to watch the sunrise and get a chance to spot the dolphins diving in and out of the sea. This is considered to offer one of the best beach dolphin tours.

7. Traditional Goan bakery

Credit: India Untravelled: Offbeat travel getaways in rural India.

On your next trip to Goa, meet Jose Carlos D'Silva, who has been baking Goan breads at home in a traditional earthen oven since 1964. Try freshly baked poi (wheat bread), kakon (bangle bread), katro (butterfly bread) at this only traditional bakery that remains in the region.

8. Mayem Lake

Credit: Golden Goa

Nestled in the Bicholim taluka, Mayem Lake is a freshwater lake where tourists can enjoy a paddle boat ride. It is also a perfect spot for picnics as well as Bungee Jumping.