Head to Goa to calm your mind and soothe your souls. Immerse yourself in its tranquility and see everything virtually falling into place. Goa have many beautiful islands and places which are hidden treasures and haven’t been explored much. Below is the list of some of the best and must visit islands when in Goa.
Divar Island
Located at a distance of 10 km from Panjim city, the otherwise not so happening island turns lively and wears the festive look during the festival of Bonderam and Potekar which is similar to Halloween. There are three villages in Divar - Naroa, Piedade and Malar which have ferries plying to and from Panjim throughout the day.
Things to do
The best time to visit the island is during the Bonderam festival in August during which the entire island will be immersed in festive spirits. The celebrations include knocking down each other’s flags in the memory of their ancestor's past traditions. You can witness the beautiful amalgamation of Indian and Portuguese culture which is reflected in its people. There is a hilltop church which gives us a beautiful view of the Arabian Sea.
There are no expensive restaurants, but small eateries have been set up which serves some tea, snacks and homely food. There are two huge houses of Portuguese architecture which can be rented if one wants to spend a day or two on the island away from the maddening city.
Chorao Island
There are a number of ferry services to the island from Ribandar which is just 5 km from Panjim. Surrounded by thick mangroves and pristine waters, Chorao is breathtakingly beautiful. One can also take the Canoe to the island for a different kind of experience.
Things to do on the Island
The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a major attraction among the tourists there. It has around 400 varieties of migratory and Native Indian birds. You can come across some abandoned houses and some age-old traditions and practices which are still observed by people.
There is also a temple dedicated to Devi Katyayani. When heading back to the Goan shores in a jetty, you can get a glimpse of Reis Magos Fort and the mouth of mighty River Mandovi.
Conco island
The Conco Island popularly known as the monkey island is a major attraction among the foreigners. It is located in the Canacona region, at the Palolem Beach bay. When on this island, you can only see the blue of the Arabian Sea as far as the eyes can take. There are a lot of boats plying from the Palolem beach that brings you to the Monkey Island. It’s popularly known as the monkey island because of the monkey population in the island. The boat ride from Palolem beach gives you an opportunity to try your hand at fishing and have a glimpse at the incredible dolphins.
Things to do
One can just chill and hang around the beach with some beer and friends for company. You can swim on the beach, light a bonfire or host a barbeque. For all those who are a little more adventurous, you can indulge in some scuba diving and snorkeling.
Every island is unique in its own way and provides a retreat for its tourists. The islands, which have their own culture, tradition and practices is a must visit which will help you in some soul-searching. A visit to the islands of Goa will be a different type of experience all together!
Grand Island Goa
Grand Island is very popular Tourist Island in Goa, Every year Million Indian tourist visit grand Island for Boat trip. A trip to the Grand Island on a boat, fishing, dolphin sighting, crocodile spotting and also spotting Goa’s history-defining sculptures such as the Aguada fort, the central jail and the millionaire’s bungalow is a thing to remember.
Things to Do at Grand Island in Goa: Scuba Diving, Fishing, Snorkeling, Dolphin Watching, Boat Ride, Picnic.
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