15 Stunning Day Trips from Goa You Probably Didn’t Know Existed

1. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary – A Forest Symphony

• Distance from Goa: ~80 km from Margao
• Ideal for: Nature lovers, hikers, wildlife enthusiasts

Tucked away in South Goa’s lesser-known eastern region, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is a green paradise where waterfalls roar, birds sing, and trails lead deep into nature. The sanctuary is home to exotic flora and fauna including black panthers, giant squirrels, and endemic bird species.

Don't Miss:

• The bubbling Budbudyanchi Tali (Bubble Lake), a sacred tank that mysteriously bubbles on its own.

• Savari Waterfall, an easy trek through the forest ending at a spectacular waterfall.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and birdwatching.

2. Chorla Ghat – Misty Mountains and Hidden Views

• Distance from Goa: ~60 km from Panaji
• Ideal for: Adventure lovers, nature photography, couples

Perched at the tri-junction of Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, Chorla Ghat is a mist-covered wonderland, especially during the monsoons. The ghat offers jaw-dropping valley views, forest hikes, and a cool climate that feels like a Himalayan escape.

Top Experiences:

• Hike to Lasni Temb peak for panoramic views.

• Explore Twin Vajra waterfalls tucked in the dense forest.

Best Time to Visit: June to September for monsoon magic; October to February for clear skies.

3. Divar Island – Time Travel in the Mandovi

• Distance from Goa: ~12 km from Panaji (via ferry)
• Ideal for: Culture lovers, peaceful retreat, photography

Just a short ferry ride from Old Goa lies Divar Island, an old-world Portuguese village untouched by time. Narrow winding roads, colorful homes, ancient churches, and lush fields make it a postcard-perfect destination.

Things to Do:

• Visit Our Lady of Compassion Church, dating back to the 17th century.

• Attend the quirky Bonderam Festival if you’re there in August.

Fun Fact: No bridges connect Divar to the mainland, preserving its quiet charm.

4. Amboli Ghat – The Rain Capital of Maharashtra

• Distance from Goa: ~85 km from Pernem
• Ideal for: Monsoon lovers, waterfall chasers

Nestled in the Sahyadri Hills, Amboli is a sleepy hill station that turns magical during the rains. Mist blankets the roads, waterfalls gush from cliffs, and viewpoints like Mahadev Gad overlook dreamy landscapes.

Must-Visit Spots:

• Amboli Waterfall (great for a splash!)

• Hiranyakeshi Temple and caves

Travel Tip: Roads can be slippery in monsoons. A private cab is safer than scooters.

5. Tambdi Surla Temple – Oldest Surviving Temple in Goa

• Distance from Goa: ~70 km from Panaji
• Ideal for: History buffs, photographers, spiritual seekers

The Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple, built in the 12th century, is Goa’s oldest surviving structure. Crafted from black basalt in Kadamba-Yadava architectural style, the temple is surrounded by thick forests at the edge of Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary.

Why Visit?

• Experience architectural brilliance from a pre-Portuguese era.

• Combine it with a short trek to Tambdi Waterfall nearby.

6. Anshi National Park – Wild Encounters Await

• Distance from Goa: ~90 km from Canacona
• Ideal for: Wildlife photographers, eco-tourists, adventurers

Part of the Kali Tiger Reserve, Anshi National Park offers a real jungle experience. With chances to spot tigers, panthers, elephants, and exotic birds, it's a paradise for wildlife lovers.

Activities:

• Jeep safaris

• Night camping (permit required)

Note: Entry needs forest department permission; plan in advance.

7. Sindhudurg Fort – A Maratha Marvel

• Distance from Goa: ~110 km from North Goa (Malvan)
• Ideal for: History enthusiasts, coastal explorers

Located in Maharashtra’s Malvan region, the Sindhudurg Fort was built by Shivaji Maharaj in 1664. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea, this island fort still stands tall as a symbol of Maratha naval power.

Things to Explore:

• Sea-facing bastions, secret escape routes, and the only temple dedicated to Shivaji inside.

• Enjoy authentic Malvani seafood nearby.

8. Keri Beach & Arambol Sweet Lake – Coastal Serenity

• Distance from Goa: ~30 km from Mapusa
• Ideal for: Beach lovers, yoga travelers, digital nomads

Located in North Goa, Keri (Querim) Beach is a peaceful escape from the party crowds. Just a short walk from the beach is the Arambol Sweet Water Lake, a freshwater body surrounded by forested cliffs.

Perfect For:

• Sunset picnics

• Forest hikes

• Meditation or yoga retreats

Local Tip: Try the sea-view restaurants run by locals instead of commercial cafes.

9. Bicholim – Goa’s Hidden Hinterland

• Distance from Goa: ~35 km from Panaji
• Ideal for: Cultural immersion, pottery workshops

Away from the coast, Bicholim is where Goa’s true rural charm unfolds. Known for its ceramic and pottery artisans, Bicholim offers workshops where you can get your hands dirty and learn traditional techniques.

Explore:

• Mayem Lake (boating)

• Saptakoteshwar Temple nearby

10. Karwar – The Twin Sister of Goa

• Distance from Goa: ~90 km from Palolem
• Ideal for: Peaceful beaches, seafood, coastal drives

Located just across Goa’s southern border in Karnataka, Karwar offers the same Arabian coastline vibes without the crowds. It's where river meets the sea, and nature shows its gentler side.

What to Do:

• Visit the INS Chapal Warship Museum

• Sunset at Tilmati Black Sand Beach

Tip: Try the local Karwari fish curry – distinct from Goan style but just as delicious!

11. Gokarna – Spirituality Meets Surfing

• Distance from Goa: ~140 km from South Goa
• Ideal for: Backpackers, spiritual travelers, beach trekkers

Though slightly farther, Gokarna is worth the journey. Known for its laid-back beaches, sacred temples, and scenic cliffside treks, it’s a hybrid of Goa’s party and Rishikesh’s peace.

Top Beaches:

• Om Beach

• Kudle Beach

• Paradise Beach (accessible via hike or boat)

12. Cabo de Rama Fort – Goa’s Forgotten Cliffside Castle

• Distance from Goa: ~30 km from Agonda
• Ideal for: Photographers, offbeat explorers

Cabo de Rama Fort is one of Goa’s most dramatic forts, perched high on a cliff with sweeping views of the Arabian Sea. While in ruins, it has a haunting beauty perfect for romantic photos or solo reflection.

Don’t Miss:

• The chapel still in use

• Hidden coves nearby for quiet picnics

13. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary – A Birder’s Paradise

• Distance from Goa: ~60 km from Valpoi
• Ideal for: Birdwatchers, trekkers, conservationists

Recognized as an Important Bird Area, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is home to over 255 species of birds including the elusive Malabar Pied Hornbill. It’s also Goa’s contender for tiger reserve status.

Activities:

• Nature trails

• River kayaking (with local eco-tour operators)

14. Nandgad Village – A Cultural Retreat

• Distance from Goa: ~100 km from Ponda
• Ideal for: Culture vultures, anthropologists, rural travel lovers

Hidden in Karnataka’s Belgaum region, Nandgad is known for traditional Kannada culture, temples, and folk arts. Time seems to move slower here, and it’s the perfect place for soulful conversations and deep cultural dives.

Unique Experience: Attend a local Yakshagana (folk theatre) performance if you're lucky!

15. Harvalem Caves & Waterfall – A Mythical Combo

• Distance from Goa: ~45 km from Panaji
• Ideal for: Mythology fans, family day trips

The Harvalem Waterfall and adjacent Arvalem Caves make a great combo for a short, scenic day trip. The caves date back to the 6th century and are believed to have been carved by Buddhist monks.

Pair With:

• A visit to Rudreshwar Temple nearby

• A picnic by the waterfall during post-monsoon season

Conclusion: Discover the Other Side of Goa

Goa isn’t just a party destination. It’s a treasure trove of nature, history, culture, and hidden beauty—if you’re willing to look beyond the obvious. These 15 offbeat day trips reveal a side of Goa most tourists miss.

Whether it’s trekking through sacred forests, exploring Portuguese villages on islands, or soaking in monsoon mists in the ghats, each day trip adds a unique flavor to your Goan experience.

So next time you're in Goa, ditch the crowd and follow the road less traveled—you’ll return with stories that no beach party can match.