The richness of this coastal region’s pristine landscapes and its true essence are hidden in the southern part of the Konkan state. South Goa is indeed a treasure trove of nature and culture at their best.
The imagery of Goa in most magazines, films and social media conjures up some seemingly tedious stock visuals. Sunbeds, beach huts, shacks and umbrellas, flea markets and rave parties replete with pleasure-seeking crowds. Many tourists get far more fixated on checking these overrated “must dos” in their itineraries than exploring beyond the obvious. However, the richness of this coastal region’s pristine landscapes and its true essence are hidden in the southern part of the Konkan state. South Goa is indeed a treasure trove of nature and culture at their best.
And while coastal vacation is deemed “too sultry” for summer season, don’t let this clichéd perception blind your travel plans. The lush greenery and tranquillity of the unspoiled beaches of South Goa do bring respite from the harshness of landlocked temperatures in the rest of the country. So chill on!
Serenity in the Lap of Carmona
Carmona is one such quaint and scenic village in South Goa. Home to the best football players from India, including Denzie Ferrao, Seby Dias and Jules Alberto, the village is also famous for Our Lady of Succour Church (Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Socorro) built in 1607. With its pristine beauty, uncluttered coastline and serene ambience, Zalor beach of the village is undoubtedly a perfect sojourn for spending sleepy summer time by the sea.
Like any other part of Goa, this too is best explored on a two-wheeler. Biking through the alleys and roads nestled in thick greenery, dotted with Portuguese-styled villas, is indeed the way to explore the hidden beauty of place.
What’s Your Catch of the Day?
The cleaner and spotless a beach, the more likely you are to get treated with nature’s delight. Go on a beach walk to soak your feet in the salty waters or have a fun time seashell spotting. You will be amazed to find some astonishingly artistic seashells. A few of them look like they have been intricately chiseled by a craftsperson at work. Well, that’s nature’s work of art!
Some Sweet & Savoury Souvenirs
What better way to carry a slice of Goa to your loved ones than treat them to sweet and savory local delicacies. If you are a cake lover, do not miss out on the iconic Bebinca, a layered cake of Indo-Portuguese origin. Made of 7 – 16 layers, the cake is prepared in a slow process using flour, sugar, ghee, egg yolk, and coconut milk. Those who have mildly sweet taste buds, check out Bolinahs. These are cookies made with semolina and coconut. Crisp on the outside and soft inside, it’s apt for tea time. Doce, a sweet fudge made with chana dal, coconut, and sugar is equally delectable. Indulge in the richness of rice flour, coconut milk and jaggery with dark brown rolls of Dodol.
Nutty Bounty
Another joyful way to make the best of summer in South Goa is with the nature’s bounty — the famed Goan cashews. You will be delight to spot cashew shrubs blooming with pink-hued cashew apples. You can also shop the fresh crunchy cashew nuts from the New Market, Margaon. Those of you who wanna pep up your spirits (quite literally) can try the well-known Feni, a double-distilled heritage spirit indigenous to Goa.
