Soak in the local history
Revisit Goa’s history of annexation via the ruins of the majestic forts scattered across Goa. The Reis Magos Fort, Verem, one of the most beautifully restored forts, overlooks parts of the sea and houses a museum within it. Also worthy of visit are Chapora Fort (as made popular by Dil Chahta Hai), Cabo De Rama in the south, Fort Aguada in Sinquerim and Tirakhol in the far north. Visit them for a slice of history, and stunning, lush views from a vantage point.
Walk through Old Goa
Typically, exploring Old Goa involves visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi right across it. But the area is dotted with several other historic gems that may not always be on the tourist trail. The Church of St. Augustine, Chapel of Mount Mary, the Statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Viceroy Gate are some spots worth visiting.
Explore the Latin Quarter
the oldest surviving Latin Quarter in Goa. Colourful, whimsical and cut off from the main parts of Panjim, it is characterised by narrow lanes flanked by old homes, boutique hotels, quaint restaurants, galleries and cafes. Fontainhas is best explored on foot or on a bicycle.
Marvel at ancestral Portuguese homes and architecture
The use of vibrant colour, distinct mother-of-pearl-shell windows and hand-painted tiles come to mind when you think of traditional Goan homes. The Goan bungalow, with its Baroque-inspired architecture is quite the icon of this period. Visit the Menezes Braganza House in Chandor, Palácio do Deão in Quepem or roam the Campal area in Panaji to breathe in a bit of the history within the welcoming balcaos (porches), tiny balconies and inner courtyards
Check out the museums…
Goa is home to a few unusual, but interesting museums. For those inclined to history and culture, Goa Chitra in Benaulim— an ethnographic museum and The Museum of Christian Art —amongst the only one of its kind in Asia, showcases Indo-Portuguese art from the state are must-sees. Also worth visiting are the Archaeological Museum and Indian Customs & Central Excise Museum where you can revisit the state’s history of dealing with smuggling and other contraband activities.
Spice things up on a farm
Moving away from the coast and deeper into Goa’s hinterland, the lush greenery, rich soil and coastal monsoons make the state an ideal spot for cultivation of spices. A handful of spice plantations in the area around Ponda are now quite the attraction for travellers interested in food history and culture. Usually a day trip, a visit to any of these farms involves walks exploring the plantations, a guided tour of the processing plants, a peek inside a traditional Goan kitchen and ends with a sumptuous Goan meal.
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