Goa is brandished as a state of recreation where booze, beaches, and bonfires happen concurrently. But that is not the entire just of cultural influence that defines it. Goa is more than just a party place there is much more to visit other than the beaches of Goa.
Goa has plenty of water bodies and hill stations that will amp up your weekend getaways. You can indulge in water sports, guided trekking, foliage visits, and even private beaches if you have the time. We have scouted out the best weekend getaway places near Goa so that your visits become worth reminiscing about.
Here is the list of the 5 Famous Weekend Gateways from Goa:
1. Chorla Ghat
Chorla ghat is on the trifecta of the roads that connect Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka. If you reside in these three states and are looking for a soothing road trip with scenic adventures, Chorla ghat is your best bet. When monsoon drenches the state, visitors’ size shrinks with each passing day.
Beaches are not the exact partying spot at that time and are best to be avoided by you. Be prepared to be dazzled by the scenic landscapes, and picturesque views that will compel you to take snaps with your getaway partners. After that, especially during monsoons, the Vazira Shakira waterfalls are the place which is crowded in the ghat.
The waterfall is not being avoided at any cost if you enter the Chorla Ghat. A pro tip is to carry snacks and food with you as there are very few shops inside that. Many small waterfalls emerge during the monsoon, so it’s up to you to spot a few of them.
The roads can pose a problem in some areas, but with google maps by your side and friendly locals, you will never get lost in the region. There are plenty of trekking and hiking opportunities, but a guide is a must for those activities.
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2. Karwar
If you are bored by the hill stations, and the burdening work schedule, Karwar is a decent option for a quick change of scenery. Karwar is under the 100 kilometers mark, so it won’t hurt your back, whatever vehicle you opt to reach there.
If you don’t trust our word about the sheer beauty of Karwar, then read some pieces by the legendary Indian poet Rabindra Nath Tagore about the place. He was enticed by the beauty of Karwar and called it the Kashmir of Karnataka. Shadashivgadh fort is near the Kali river bridge, it is a must-visit site that offers a glimpse into the history of India.
You wouldn’t find many forts there, but the high ramparts are a sight to behold. Karwar is filled with small and large beaches that offer recreational sports activities such as snorkeling and banana boating. If you are a non-vegetarian, the taste of fresh seafood will remain for some time on your palate. The restaurants can be slightly expensive, but considering the remote location and availability, it’s not bad to shell out a few extra bucks.
3. Dandeli
Dandeli is slightly far off from Karwar but is not short of scenic spots in comparison. The dense greenery in the region houses a lot of species of birds and animals. Find a high vantage point and get engrossed in bird watching if you love that, or just let loose of all the anxiety and tension amassed throughout the week.
We sat still for three hours to relax and stop working our brains for that period. It is a great location to calm your nerves, rest between long routes and re-energize in the process. Om beach is a prominent visiting spot, but the half-moon beach is also worth a sight. It is not very far off from the former but entices more visitors due to its shape, and small lagoons have formed over the years.
If you want to experience the thrill and adventurous journey, then a hike must be on your list at this place between the beaches. The still water offers paddle-boating opportunities for visitors. Camping and paintball are now in vogue and easily accessible in the region. We won’t recommend visiting Dandeli in the monsoon as the beaches are closed, and the weather stops all water sports.
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4. Bhatkal
Bhatkal is a good getaway option if you are willing to go the distance. This destination is located more than 200 kilometers from Goa, a long drive can be excruciating on the back. A town that is near the port and is canvassed with temples and shrines.
In Bhatkal, the tranquillity will surprise you, but the commotion is not what the place offers to you. Super calm surroundings and massive temples are the specialties of this location. Hence, it reflects the history of Indian heritage. For art enthusiasts, the ancient paintings inside the caves and temples are a must-visit place.
The solemn serenity offered by this site can surely capture your attention and shroud you in a calm yet jovial environment without any effort. The locals are friendly, and the language can be a slight barrier, but you can get by with a well-informed tour guide.
5. Kolhapur
Kolhapur must be on your list if you are a history buff or want to indulge in a shopping spree. The famous Jain temple in Kolhapur is a mark of the pre-historian period and can be visited to learn more about the religion. The cuisine that defines Maharashtra is lip-smacking and originates from the region.
Pandhrarassa and Tambdarassa are two distinct delicacies that will last for a long on your palate. No one can replace the originality and the flavors from the region. It is a delight for non-vegetarians, and the mutton dishes can get a tad bit over spicy for visitors new to the cuisine.
We were profusely sweating when we tried the Kolhapuri mutton in a local joint. Non-fancy places offer the best taste at economical pricing fit for all budget ranges. Kolhapuri chappals, jaggery, and jewelry items are equally enticing and are among the most sought options by visitors. Kolhapur has both, a tranquil atmosphere and mouth-watering food items.
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Well there is no competition for adventure travel, but for those near Mumbai and Pune looking for something closer to home.