July 31st, 2018 by OYO Team

Offbeat destinations in South Goa that captivated me

Yes, South Goa seems a particularly unusual choice as my friends commented, considering someone who’s a bonafide party animal like me! Yet, I went ahead with it since I wanted a break from all the madness of my hectic professional and social lives and most importantly, I had a whole month to chill before getting back to another work desk!

Goa seemed the perfect choice for taking in some of the most unusual and charming sights with a couple of pals for company and of course, enjoying the warm hospitality and simply lazing around with no constructive purpose always. While most of you would be eager to explore the hippiest landmarks in Goa, South Goa has something special to offer and I definitely took the road less travelled on my trip (been there done that earlier if you take Baga, Anjuna and other places into account).

I decided to book myself a room anywhere reasonable and attractive in South Goa (a tall order you ask?). OYO Rooms helped me find a comfortable hotel that offered a lovely room, great view and all necessary amenities. While booking my hotel online, I was delighted to know that I could book the room at half price as part of a special OYO offer in Goa which meant a fuller wallet! OYO promised to help me enjoy my vacations at half price and the trip started off on a hugely positive note as a result.  I stayed at OYO flagship 15006, beautiful property with a swimming pool and closer to beach.

Now to some of the most offbeat destinations in South Goa that left me spellbound-

Sal Estuary Hotel near Sal EstuaryI was literally watching my inner artist come alive at the sheer sight of the Sal Estuary that is beautifully located between the Betul and Cavelossim beaches. This is one of the best possible retreats that you can experience along the River Sal’s coast. I took a long and breezy walk along the Cavelossim beach with Father Time content to let me indulge for once! While at the Betul beach, saw some people fishing with the local folks as well. All in all, a nice experience.

Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary

Hotels near Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary

Now I have always been fascinated by nature and to get a chance to experience it up close again was hard to pass up! I took off to the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary that is situated at the Sanguem Taluka. The lovely mountains and flora and fauna here did not fail to leave me awestruck and going through the dense forests is in itself a thrilling yet soul-stirring experience.

Betul Lighthouse

Hotels near Betul Lighthouse

Another gem that I discovered in South Goa was the Betul Light House. For those wondering how to get there, it is just 20 kilometres away from Madgaon. The lighthouse is straight out of an Enid Blyton novel! The lighthouse is an amazing subject if you’re into photography like I am and is located on a hill, looking out onto the resplendent coast. Walking till this light house literally made my day!

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Hotels near Dudhsagar

I was absolutely delighted with my trip to the Dudhsagar Waterfalls. You have to go to the bank of the Mandovi River which is around 60 kilometres away from Panjim. I later learnt that this is one of the country’s tallest waterfalls. I got lost in a whole new world after visiting this landmark. I went with my buddies and we had a nice time sitting on the rocks and chatting here.

Butterfly Beach

Hotels near Butterfly Beach

I had heard of the Butterfly Beach previously and my curiosity was stoked immensely prior to the actual visit. I took the boat and boy was it a lovely ride! There is trek trail to this beach from Margao which takes approximately 2 hours but I’d had a heavy breakfast and my stomach disagreed with the idea! The beach is absolutely gorgeous- no two ways about it! And of course, I could definitely see some amazing butterflies as well. This was another destination straight out of a picture postcard with the sea urchins and crabs during low tide. I also heard that dolphins can be viewed here often and they also do their famous acrobats.

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We stayed till sunset on Butterfly Beach, internally reluctant to take the ride back. After all, I was basking in the indelible beauty and natural splendour that South Goa has to offer. I’m sure you will love these offbeat destinations as much as I did!

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About OYO Team

We’re people who love to travel and it’s a pleasure to share our experiences from around the world with you here. You’ll see our favourite destinations, quirky stays and budget stay. Also the best wedding banquet halls and the most lit party destinations. You’ll also find insightful opinions about why we travel in the first place and what it’s really like out there. Enjoy the blog and please tell us what you think - feedback welcome!