Be it Go Goa Gone or Kakkars’ clichéd Goa beach or the numerous Goan Insta stories, the world will do everything in its power to give you FOMO for Goa at least once in a while. For abrupt planners, for secret travellers (travelling without a parental licence) or for employed professionals seeking small weekend getaways, a backpacking trip to the backpacking abode of India is the detox you need. A sultry sunbath on the Palolem beach or a party with strangers in some beatnik bar at Vagator are the poles of Goa, between which lies its grandiose, built along a 105-km-long coastline with scenery (of all kinds) everywhere!
Here’s a guide for your upcoming trip with 10 things to keep in mind when experiencing Goa to your fullest.
Khana Khazana
The Portuguese reign and the hippie trail of the 50s and 60s have had an enormous influence on Goan cuisine, infused with Indian flavours. From delicious street food options – samosas, vindaloos, poppadoms – to continental choices – Russian, Portuguese, American – you can safely strike off food from your worries and your list of expenses – Goa’s got your back!
Transport
You already know how popular and cheap bike and car rentals are, but if you’re looking for cheaper options, local public transport can also be viable. With fares as low as Rs. 5 and connectivity to all the major cities of both North and South Goa, this mode of transport counts as an adventure, extremely essential to be experienced at least once.
Water, Water everywhere…
Goan beaches have a lot to offer – psychedelic trance parties or relaxed getaways, or adventurous excursions. The Goan landscape is dotted with beaches such as Anjuna, Arambol, Baga, Calangute, and Vagator. What many don’t know about Goa is that it has several rivers and waterfalls. Trekking to waterfalls through the dense Goan jungles is an unconventional adventure to have during your backpacking trip.
South vs North
Goa is segmented into two parts, offering two distinct cultures – North is full of nightlife and party scenes, while South is a bit more tranquil and relaxed. You get the best of both worlds with tourist spots like Anjuna’s Wednesday flea market in the North or Loutolim’s Bigfoot Museum in the South.
Staycation
For a backpacking trip, north Goa is dotted with budget-friendly hostels, while the south offers luxurious stays more suitable for romantic and planned getaways. Hostels give you a chance to travel with like-minded travellers and even discover friendships of a lifetime.
Cheers!
Confess it or don’t, we all know what makes Goa famous – the drinks. Unwind with friends and even strangers who become friends over a glass of your favourite drink or drinks that Goan bars have to offer.
Relaxed Recreation
Goa isn’t just about beaches and bars, its rich history has left magnificence behind, yet to be discovered. Be it Old Goa, Chapora Fort or Albuquerque Mansion, or the other museums, there’s a lot more than drinks and parties that Goa wishes you to experience. Historical churches such as Basilica of Bom Jesus and St. Xavier’s church tattle a theistic tale of the city.
When Goa’s the best!
Winters are the best time to travel and experience Goa – November to February. Backpackers need to keep in mind that fares usually hike around the festival and holiday season.
A True Adventure
Every backpacking trip calls for adventure activities, and Goa offers you several water-related excursions – be it the famous Banana Boat ride at Calangute or Parasailing/Jet Skiing at Anjuna beach. For the relaxed backpackers, Goa offers yoga classes and meditation camps at costs as low as Rs. 400.
Budgeting
The spontaneity of a backpacking trip and the emphasis it places on a budget are what make it different from other trips. Goa is the abode of backpacking. Everything you find here is available in both the expensive and the lite versions. From stays to drinks to food and recreation, there is not much pre-planning required. The friendly environment and homely people of the state make you feel comfortable and safe very easily.
So what are you waiting for? Goa is a thrill and adventure every day. The time has come to make your Goa plans turn into reality!