Say the word ‘Goa’, and the image that conjures up is that of miles of pale brown sandy beaches, mild waves hitting them and the countless rows of shacks doling out beers in stouts and mugs, glassfuls of ‘chai-tea’ and garlic naans to the holidaying hordes that colonize these beaches. Don’t be mistaken. We love a good, cold beer and it’s perfectly paired with that naan, but sometimes the experience gets a bit staid. If your adventure quotient is high and you want to explore the ‘other’ side of Goa, then this is the perfect trip. And no, we don’t mean only hinterland treasures. It’s about criss-crossing rivers, lakes and islands of Goa. 

In this trip, you can discover the Chorao and Divar Islands, each with a unique history and vibe. Snack in local eateries, discover historical relics, spot migratory and endemic birdlife and live the ‘Susegad’ life like the locals in a chic home-run villa and a heritage Portuguese home. If you’ve made it in the monsoons, then amp up the adventure by kayaking down a stream, and jumping in a well with the locals for the Sao Joao festival. All in all, it is a perfect trip to see Goa with fresh eyes.