Hidden Places in Goa that Tourists Don't Even Know Exist

Go off the beaten path with our listicle of 21 hidden places in Goa which probably no one told you. They include beaches, lakes, waterfalls and even one of the most haunted places in India.

Also, those hidden gems of Goa are mostly untouched and unspoiled. This means there is no mass tourism.

Hidden places in North Goa

1. WelcomHeritage Panjim Inn

WelcomHeritage Panjim Inn, nestled in the heart of Asia’s only Latin Quarter of Fontainhas in Panjim, holds the distinction of being Goa’s first classified heritage hotel.

This Catholic home was built by Francis Assis D’Silveir, a respected and successful gentleman. Careful renovations and restoration in this hotel ensure that it retains the elegance and charms of the bygone era.

However, what makes this property unique amongst the other heritage hotels of India is the obliviousness of most people regarding its interesting past. Feel the old world charm here as you walk through the rare collectibles and antiques at the Art Gallery.

Distance from Panjim: 1.3 kilometers/4 minutes (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 27 kilometers/46 minutes (approx.)
Type of Hotel: 3 star
Best For: Family travelers, couples, and backpackers
Cost for Two: 4,800 INR (approx.) onwards
Nearby Popular Attractions: Fontainhas (0.2 km), Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary (0.4 km), and Sunaparanta, Goa Centre for the Arts (0.5 km)

2. Cumbarjua Canal

Yet another one to make it to this list of hidden places in Goa is the Cumbarjua Canal .

This is a narrow stretch of salty water which is extended to about 15km in length. It connects the two rivers of Goa, namely the Mandovi and the Zuari.

The marshy banks of the canal form a delicate ecosystem and are one of the best places for watching crocodiles in the state.

The Island of Cumbarjua was a no man’s land between the Portuguese and Bijapur territories. Therefore, the crocodiles that are found here were brought into these brackish waters about a hundred years ago in order to prevent invaders.

Distance from Panjim: 16 kilometers/24 minutes (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 26 kilometers/46 minutes (approx.)
Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours (approx.)
Ticket Cost/Entry Fee: 1,200 INR (approx.) per person
Timings: 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM (everyday)
Things to Do: Boating, watching crocodiles sunbathing
Best Time to Visit: Winter, early summer, pre/post-monsoon

3. Chorla Ghats, Intersection of Goa, Karnataka, Maharashtra Border

Goa is home to several natural treasures which remain hidden from the eyes of the people. Chorla Ghat is one of them. Situated on the intersection of the borders of Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, it lies to the northeast of Panaji.

This place is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and is a part of the beautiful Western Ghats which are as eminent for their gorgeous waterfalls, biodiversity and a few rare species.

Perched at an elevation of about 800m, it’s draped in clouds during the monsoon. Here, you come across several small waterfalls, with the major one being Vazira Shakira Fall.

Distance from Panjim: 55 kilometers/1 hours 20 minutes (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 63 kilometers/2 hours (approx.)
Best For: Backpackers and youngsters for a short bike trip from Goa

Also Read: Fun Things to do in Goa

4. Casa Severina

Casa Severina, located near Calangute beach, is a commendable attempt to recreate the glories of the past and showcase the past splendor of vernacular heritage, culture, ethos, and architecture.

You can experience the charms of this gracious residence with honeymoon tour packages. Indeed, it is a treat of true Goan Art de vibe hospitality. Its owners, Mr. Joseph Sequeira and Mrs. Feliciana, sum it up well when they say, “Come in as guests…and leave as family.”

The Casa, or the hotel, is a tribute to their grandmother Severina. When it comes to luxurious indulgences, the family has put every effort to ensure every bit of it.

The rooms recreate the romance of the Spanish sonata with classical furniture and fine paintings. The romance of the bygone era comes to life here. Walkthrough the gardens with their enticing fountains, viewing gazebos and wishing wells.

Distance from Panjim: 16 kilometers/33 minutes (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 38 kilometers/1 hours 10 minutes (approx.)
Type of Hotel: 3 star
Best For: Family travelers, couples, and backpackers
Cost for Two: 1,4500 INR (approx.) onwards
Nearby Popular Attractions: Calangute Beach (5 minutes), The Sportsman Bar (0.5 km), Gold Touch (0.2 km), and Rocky’s Jewellers (0.3 km)

Book Your Goa Luxury Honeymoon Packages

5. Harvalem Falls

If you are looking for a fun-filled week in Goa, you should head to the Harvalem Falls. These splendid falls, located near Mapusa in North Goa, is one of the prominent tourist attraction in Goa during the monsoon season. The waters here fall from a height of 50m, making it an ideal picnic spot or a fun trip with family and friends.

This waterfall has a fascinating history. It’s said that it was here that the Rajput mercenaries, known as “Ranes”, were sent to settle by the British government. This was also the site of their revolt in the 19^th century. A beautiful park, located in close proximity, offers you magnificent views of the waterfall in Goa. Arvalem rock-cut caves, carved by Buddhist monks, and Rudeshwar Temple can be found nearby.

Distance from Panjim: 32 kilometers/48 minutes (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 42 kilometers/1 hours 20 minutes (approx.)
Best Time to Visit: Monsoon for lush greenery
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (everyday)
Nearby Popular Attractions: Rudreshwar Temple, Pandava Caves, Carambolim Lake

Also Read: Famous Beaches in North Goa

6. Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, located on the Island of Chorao in the Mandovi River, is one of the smallest protected areas of Goa. It has been named after Dr. Salim Ali Moizuddin Ali, a respected and famous ornithologist of India. It provides a wonderful insight into the unique ecosystem of the mangroves. This sanctuary is host to a number of common and uncommon species of marsh dwelling birds and animals.

A well-equipped Nature Research Center present here an important insight into the ecosystem here. A three-storied watchtower that provides the opportunity of bird watching at three levels is also present here. You can also enjoy a boat tour organized by the forest department during the high tide.

Distance from Panjim: 8 kilometers/20 minutes (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 29 kilometers/1 hour 11minutes (approx.)
Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours (approx.)
Ticket Cost/Entry Fee: 50 INR (approx.) for all, 75 INR (approx.) per person boating charge
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (everyday)
Things to Do: Birdwatching, forest trekking, mangrove forest boat ride
Best Time to Visit: Winter (October to March) when migratory birds flock the most

Note: Pay an additional 50 INR (approx.) for still camera, and 100 INR (approx.) for video camera

Also Read: Bird Festival in Goa

7. Querim (Keri) beach

The beaches in Goa are renowned for their nighttime parties and merrymaking. However, if you are looking for a beach that offers perfect tranquility and serenity, head to Querim Beach. The northernmost beach of Goa is home to swaying palms and casuarina trees.

This white sandy beach also offers magnificent views of the ancient Portuguese fort, known as the Terekhol Fort. A ferry service transports you to Terekhol every 30 minutes. If you decide to munch on some snacks while strolling or hanging out, check out the few shacks and restaurants lining the beach. A few thatched huts also serve the purposes of accommodation.

Distance from Panjim: 46 kilometers/1 hour 30minutes (approx.)
Distance from the Dabolim Airport: 68 kilometers/2 hours (approx.)
Watersports at Querim Beach: Paragliding, Surfing, Kayaking, Banana Boat Ride

8. Sinquerim Fort

Sinquerim Fort, located at a distance of 18km from Panaji, overlooks the Sinquerim Beach and divides the shoreline in two. The fort, constructed in the year 1612, is an extension of the Upper Aguada Fort. During the 16^th and 17^th century, ships set anchors next to the fort.

During the time of its construction, the sole purpose behind constructing the fort was guarding Goa against the Dutch and Maratha invaders, while serving as a meeting point for vessels coming in from Europe. It’s a wonderful place for getting some panoramic views of the surroundings.

Distance from Panjim: 15 kilometers 30 minutes (approx.)
Distance from the Dabolim Airport: 37 kilometers/1 hours 10 minutes (approx.)
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours (approx.)
Ticket Cost/Entry Fee: Free for all
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (everyday)
Things to Do: Sunset viewing, Goan coastline gazing, Sinquerim Beach hopping
Best Time to Visit: Early summer, winter, monsoon (pre and post)

Covid-19 Guidelines for River Cruises & Water Sports in Goa

9. Fort Tiracol

Fort Tiracol is one of the best-preserved forts of Goa, and also one of the most imposing. What makes the fort worth visiting apart from the beautiful views is the fascinating history. Standing at the confluence of the Tiracol River, it offers awesome views of the confluence of the sea and river waters, as well as providing a bird’s eye view of the Kalacha and Querem Beach.

There are also many churches in Goa, and one of them can be found in the premises of this fort. The construction of the church in the fort was on order of the conquering general, de Almeida. The church was originally dedicated to the Holy Trinity but later became the church of St. Anthony. Masses are still held in the church on Mondays.

Distance from Panjim: 42 kilometers 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
Distance from the Dabolim Airport: 72 kilometers/2 hours 25 minutes (approx.)
Entry Cost: Free for all
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (everyday)
Nearby Popular Attractions: Kerim Beach (300 m)

10. Pequeno Island

Pequeno Island in Goa, which is also known as Bat Island, is an incredible place for those seeking adventure sports and fun. This Island consists of a small rocky beach along with a small stretch of green. An Island is a great place for snorkeling.

The Island has access to the bright coral reef. Therefore, it’s an enchanting experience to come across the various sea creatures and sea plants while snorkeling on the Island. Apart from these, hundreds of colorful shoals are your partners while swimming with you in close proximity like parrotfish, hawksbill turtle, sea cucumbers, etc.

Distance from Panjim: 30 kilometers 55 minutes (approx.)
Distance from the Dabolim Airport: 5 kilometers/10 minutes (approx.)
Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours (approx.)
Ticket Cost/Entry Fee: 50 INR (approx.) for all, 75 INR (approx.) per person boating charge
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (everyday)
Things to Do: Birdwatching, campfire, boating, rocky beach exploration, diving, and snorkeling
Best Time to Visit: Early summer, winter, monsoon (pre and post)

Also Read: 11 Secret Beaches in Goa

11. Arvalem Caves

Arvalem Caves, also known as the Pandava Caves, dating back to the 6^th century BC. While some believe that these caves were creations of the traveling Buddhist monks out of single laterite rock, however, others believe that these chambers have a connection with the mythological five Pandava brothers.

The caves consist of five compartments. The simplicity and rustic nature of these caves make them quite special. Shivlings carved out of granite, stand on pedestals within these compartments. Moreover, the walls of these caves are devoid of any carvings of intricate designs.

Distance from Panjim: 32 kilometers/50 minutes (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 42 kilometers/ 1 hour 15 minutes (approx.)
Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours (approx.)
Ticket Cost/Entry Fee: 50 INR (approx.) for all, 75 INR (approx.) per person boating charge
Timings: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, and 2.00 PM to 5.00 PM (everyday)

12. Savoi Plantations, North Goa

Watch how to spice plantations look in their natural environment at Savoi Plantations. This well-executed and done-up plantation in Goa is a completely organic garden where using any pesticides or fertilizers is strictly prohibited. If you are from Panjim, this hidden place in Goa is around 25 kilometers (approx.). One can witness the migratory birds at the pond inside the Savoi Plantations.

The refreshing greenery of the plantations is decked with medicinal herbs, spices, and aromatic fruits. You can witness folk performances arranged at night. In addition, there are two traditionally constructed houses within the Savoi Plantations where you can savor dinner in earthen pots and banana leaves.

Distance from Panjim: 26 kilometers/41 minutes (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 36 kilometers/1 hours (approx.)
Entry Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (approx.)
Entry Fee: 600 INR (approx.) for adults, and 300 INR (approx.) for kids
Nearby Town: Ponda, 10 kilometers (approx.).
Best Time to Visit: Early summer, before/after the monsoon, winter

Note: Children below 12 years of age require no entry fee

13. Pomburpa Springs

Looking for a good place to spend your time with your family on a Goa trip that is unexplored? Switch off your mundane life at Pomburpa Springs.

It is a hot spring that exhibits medicinal properties. A dip in this hidden water spring in Goa is sure to heal your skin diseases – as per the area’s locals.

This perfect picnic spot in Goa is very famous amongst the kids and the backpackers.

Distance from Panjim: 15 kilometers/30 minutes (approx.)
Distance from the Dabolim Airport: 36 kilometers/1 hours (approx.)
Entry Fee: Free for all
Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year

14. Arambol Sweet Water Lake

This is a palm-edged freshwater lake located on the Northern end of Arambol Beach. It could be reached via a short walk from Arambol Beach.

The lake is surrounded by green hills, which adds to its picturesque setting. A dip in Arambol Sweet Water Lake will give you a dose of complete rejuvenation.

Several shacks are dotted around the lake, and there are sunbeds also available. Make a visit to the Arambol Sweet Water Lake after your trip to Arambol Beach to explore the unexplored on your next Goa trip.

Distance from Panjim: 39 kilometers/1 hours 20 minutes (approx.)
Distance from the Dabolim Airport: 60 kilometers/2 hours (approx.)
Activities to Do: Swimming, food hopping, and photography
Best Time to Visit: Early summer, before/after the monsoon, winter

15. Dona Paula View Point

How about visiting the offbeat place in Goa that personifies the phrase ‘True Love’ is real? Yes! You heard it right! Dona Paula is a charming village in North Goa famous for its Dona Paula Beach and the active watersports the beach offers.

Dona Paula is named after the erstwhile Portuguese Viceroy, Dona Paula de Menezes’s daughter, who fell in love with a local fisherman and later committed suicide by jumping in the sea because her father disagreed with her love.

The Dona Paula View Point is alluring and is considered one of the best places in Goa to spot sunset.

Distance from Panjim: 8 kilometers/18 minutes (approx.)
Distance from the Dabolim Airport: 27 kilometers/45 minutes (approx.)
Activities to Do: Sunset viewing, Dona Paula beach hopping and watersports, photography
Best Time to Visit: Early summer, before/after the monsoon, winter

Did you know that Dona Paula view point is also considered one of the most haunted places in India. Read our complete list of most haunted places in India

Hidden places in South Goa

16. Butterfly Beach, South Goa

Butterfly Beach is a hidden wonderland in South Goa where the mystical calmness prevails with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. True to its name, this beach is one of the best photography places in Goa because millions of butterflies could be seen here. One can reach Butterfly Beach from the Palolem Beach boat ride easily. Dolphin spotting excursion is one of the best experiences to cherish at Butterfly Beach.

Moreover, if you want to spot redfish, goldfishes, and crabs without going to a foreign land, this hidden beach in South Goa is for you! This beach is a privacy boon for couples who are looking for romantic places to visit in Goa that are unexplored. One can also reach this beach from Palolem Beach via hike, which demands 2 hours (approx.) duration. Enclosed by the thick sheet of greenery, forest hiking next to Butterfly Beach is one of the best things to do!

Distance from Panjim: 68 kilometers/2 hours 15 minutes (approx.)
Distance from the Dabolim Airport: 59 kilometers/2 hours (approx.)
Watersports at Butterfly Beach: Snorkeling, Banana Boat Ride, Parasailing, Jet Skiing

Also Read: 10 Best South Goa Beaches

17. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, sprawling over an area of 240sq. km is the largest wildlife preserve in the state of Goa.

This place is a treat both for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts as there are various hiking trails traversing this enormous tract of land. The area here is mostly covered with pristine vegetation and consists of west coast tropical evergreen forests.

Upon visiting this sanctuary, one also comes across several species of herbivorous animals like spotted deer, hog, mouse deer and barking deer.

Among the 120 bird species found in this place, the most common is the Ruby-throated Yellow Bulbul, which is also the state bird of Goa.

Apart from the exotic variety of flora and fauna found here, this sanctuary also consists of other attractions like Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Tambi Falls and Devil’s Canyon, besides others.

Distance from Panjim: 68 kilometers/1 hours 40 minutes (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 68 kilometers/1 hours 40 minutes (approx.)
Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours (approx.)
Ticket Cost/Entry Fee: 20 INR (approx.) for adults, 10 INR (approx.) for children
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (everyday)
Things to Do: Birdwatching, wildlife safari, forest trekking
Best Time to Visit: Winter, early summer, pre/post-monsoon

Note: Expect to pay 30 INR (approx.) for a still camera and 150 INR (approx.) for the video camera. Plus, 120 INR (approx.) for car parking and 40 INR (approx.) for two-wheeler parking.

Book Now and Discover the Beauty of Goa with the Goa 3-Day Package!

18. Netravali – Bubbling Lake

The Netravali Lake, situated in the tranquil and serene village of Netravali has gained eminence due to its bubbles. What is so fascinating about this lake, you may ask?

Well, when you visit this mysterious lake you will be startled with the sight which greets your eyes.

These lake witnesses the rise of bubbles in certain areas of the lake in a continuous manner. This phenomenon appears all the stranger when these unexplained bubbles appear to respond to certain sounds and rise faster with each clap.

For the local people here, this lake holds special significance. While some claim that the bubbles are the work of the local deity, others claim that they are due to the presence of carbon or sulfur dioxide gas.

Distance from Panjim: 77 kilometers/2 hours (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 68 kilometers/1 hours 40 minutes (approx.)
Ideal Duration:1-2 hours (approx.)
Ticket Cost/Entry Fee: Free for all
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (everyday)
Things to Do: Birdwatching, photography
Best Time to Visit: Winter, early summer, pre/post-monsoon

19. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

The vegetation of Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is so dense that light is hardly able to penetrate the ground here. Spanning over Canacona Taluka in the south of Goa, it consists of the mostly moist-deciduous type of vegetation, along with semi-green and evergreen patches.

Get the chance of spotting two species of monkeys, a couple of wild boar along with the Gaur, which makes an appearance occasionally. It’s best to visit this sanctuary between the months of October and March. There is also a 25m high treetop watchtower to enjoy fascinating views of the animals who come to visit the waterhole during dawn and dusk.

Distance from Panjim: 90 kilometers/2.5 hours (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 81 kilometers/2 hours 20 minutes (approx.)
Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours (approx.)
Ticket Cost/Entry Fee: 5 INR (approx.) for all, 25 INR (approx.) camera fee
Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM (everyday)
Things to Do: Birdwatching, wildlife safari, forest trekking, meeting tribal people
Best Time to Visit: Winter, early summer, pre/post-monsoon
Flora and Fauna to Spot: Flying Squirrel, Slender Loris, Indian Pangolin, Mouse Deer, Four-Horned Antelope

20. Hollant Beach

Hollant Beach attracts a large number of tourists, perhaps because its the only beach in Goa when one can witness a spectacular sunrise. This lovely beach lies in the south of Goa, along the foothills of the Western Ghats.

Meanwhile, the beautiful beach looks further attractive during the high tide. As the waves rise to join the waters of an adjoining stream, it looks a beauty beyond words. There are also find several shacks serving delicious food here.

Distance from Panjim: 28 kilometers/50 minutes (approx.)
Distance from Dabolim Airport: 4 kilometers/9 minutes (approx.)
Watersports at Hollant Beach: Swimming, Kayaking, and Seaside Amusement

Also Read: 25 Best Beaches to Visit in Goa

21. Sadolxem Bridge, Canacona, South Goa

Do you think the best places to visit in South Goa are restricted to Palolem Beach and Agonda Beach only? If yes, then you are seriously missing the Sadolxem Bridge in Canacona in South Goa. This bridge acts as a connector between Canacona to Pioguinim and dates back to two decades.

The length and the breadth of this bridge are wide enough to let the four-wheeler pass on it. Next, visit Sadolxem Bridge, as it is the focal point over the Talpona River. From here, shutterbugs can take in the marvelous views of the mangrove vegetation and the tranquil backwaters.

Distance from Panjim: 73 kilometers/2.5 hours (approx.)
Distance from the Dabolim Airport: 63 kilometers/2 hours (approx.)
Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year
Opening Timings: 24*7

Fascinated much? Now plan a trip to Goa and visit all these hidden places before the world discovers and commercializes them! You can book the package with a multilingual team of travel experts and get your preferred tour package. So, give us a call now!

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Vishwajit Sharma

A travel writer by profession possessing an avid interest in books, movies and music, Vishwajit Sharma believes that travelling is essentially discovering yourself. He hopes that, through his articles and write ups, the idea of travelling is aroused in everyone. Let the journey begin!