What’s the first thing you think of when you hear Goa? Quick, not more than a second! If your first thought was parties, eh you’re wrong! Because the party capital is North Goa. But let’s talk about the silent sister – South Goa. The contrast between North and South Goa is so distinct that it almost seems like a well-thought strategy. Chaos of parties in the North find their end in the peace of the South here. South Goa holds tourist attractions that are so peaceful and calm that they’re almost meditative. Don’t get us wrong, you’ll find some very interesting places to visit and fun activities to do here but you’ll be surrounded by a serene ambiance. If that’s exactly what you dream of for vacations, then grab your backpacks because we’re about to begin the trip you should take to explore South Goa in 2 days.
Places To Visit On Day 1
- Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple
- Mollem National Park
- The Martin’s Corner
- Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple
Let’s begin our 2-day trip to South Goa on a holy note by visiting the oldest temple in South Goa, the Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple. Located approximately 65 km from Panaji, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its religious significance but it’s also known for many other interesting facts that often overpower the religious basis. For starters, the Jain architecture on an ancient Hindu temple pointed questions at its true origins. Another interesting fact is that the top of this temple was never fully constructed and remains incomplete to this day.
One of the most interesting facts, perhaps, that will bring you to this temple is an urban legend that’s been around forever. There’s a giant King Cobra that rests inside the temple during the night but is never seen during the day. Though the temple is far to reach, the local folks here celebrate the festival of Mahashivratri with a lot of sincerity and enthusiasm.
Timings: 8.30 am – 5.30 pm
Mollem National Park
Nestled within the Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary is the Mollem National Park. To know about the Mollem National Park, you should first know a little about this sanctuary. Originally called the Mollem Game Sanctuary, it was declared a sanctuary to protect the vast biodiversity in the region. The core area of the sanctuary, roughly 107 sq. km, was declared a national park in 1978 and was called the (drumroll) that’s right, Mollem National Park.
Although the national park is a popular tourist attraction throughout the year, the monsoons are the best time to visit because you get to see the natural beauty of the Dudhsagar Waterfalls and lush green forests at its peak. There are two ways you can have a nice time here– either by taking a safari that’ll take you through the whole national park where you can spot carnivorous animals from a distance. The second way is that you trek your way through the forests and explore at your own pace, of course under the supervision of a guide.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Let’s begin exploring this place by first learning the origin of its name. Dudhsagar translates to Sea of Milk, because the water in this cascade falls at a height of 1017 ft, giving a whitish appearance, like milk. Located inside the Mollem National Park, the 4-tiered waterfall along with the serene flora and fauna is a pure delight to the eyes.
While most people prefer to trek to reach the falls, there are trains available too but the most preferred method of transportation is renting a jeep or any private transport. That’s because private transport will let you stay at the falls for however long you want and will cut down on your trek fatigue. For a wholesome experience, you must visit this place during monsoons, but at your own risk because the pathway does get very slippery, to witness the spectacle of the mighty Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
The Martin’s Corner
After a tiring safari, we bet you’ve started feeling hungry. So let’s quickly head to The Martin’s Corner and devour a delicious meal. This family-friendly eatery also lets you grab takeaways in case your child (or the child in you) is fussing to leave for the beach, making it a great addition to your South Goa in 2 Days plan.
The Martin’s Corner is a famous restaurant that serves multiple cuisines and a warm smile. You’ll even get to listen to live bands performing some of your favorite tracks here while you enjoy a relaxed meal and good company. If you’re traveling solo, you don’t need to feel let out, just pair your hot food with a chilled beer, and voila, the perfect dining experience!
Address: Binwaddo, Salcette, Betalbatim, Goa
Price: Approximately INR 1,800 for two
Time: 11.30 am – 4.00 pm and 6.30 pm – 11.30 pm
Places To Visit On Day 2
- Indian Naval Aviation Museum
- The Fisherman’s Wharf
- Palolem Beach
- Grand Island
Indian Naval Aviation Museum
Inaugurated in 1998, the Indian Naval Aviation Museum is one of the only two military museums in India, and the only Naval Museum in India. If this isn’t reason enough for you to visit, then keep following for more interesting details that’ll make it to your South Goa itinerary.
Here, you can find the aircraft that were used by the Indian Navy through different periods of our history. The interiors of this museum are designed similarly to the interiors of INS Viraat, an Indian naval carrier. Apart from used aircraft, you can also find decommissioned aircraft, uniforms, vintage documents, weapons, and many many photographs.
Also, several galleries display the records of prominent battles, a simulation room, and a huge granite plaque paying homage to the brave and diligent naval army officers who were martyred during combat. The Indian Naval Aviation Museum is one of the lesser-known spots in India that evoke patriotism in Indians and a sense of pride for India in international visitors.
The Fisherman’s Wharf
We agree 2 days aren’t enough to explore the food scene in South Goa but we promise this restaurant will give you a close enough experience.
The Fisherman’s Wharf has a wide array of cuisines like Continental, Indian, Mughlai, and Chinese, but the specialities here are seafood and Goan. You must try this place for the ambiance and the views you get to see from here. The play area here is a bonus if you’re traveling with toddlers. How can we talk about everything but not the food, you ask? Because the food here speaks for itself! So tasty, so wholesome, you just won’t be able to resist overeating here. For the perfect culinary experience, you can club a classic fish platter with an alcoholic beverage of your choice.
Address: Cavelossim Road, Near Bryson Supermarket, Mobor, Cavelossim, Goa
Price: Approximately INR 1,300 for two
Time: 12.30 pm – 11.00 pm
Palolem Beach
If Palolem Beach were to be given a title, we’d probably crown it the Southern Jewel Of Goa because it is. This place is a white sand paradise. As opposed to the usual reputation of beaches, Palolem Beach is known for its peaceful and calm vibes.
And if you thought we were bluffing, we are, we’re not! Because the beach does transform into a party place by the night with people headbanging together in the silent discos (still peaceful, technically!). For a cutesy experience, you can go on boat rides that’ll take you right where you can watch dolphins.
Grand Island
Our trip in South Goa can’t come to an end without having fun at the Grand Island. Now, we know that Goa has no shortage, not even a little, but it can get hard to find a one-stop shop for all plausible water activities. Fret not because Grand Island has it covered! Whether you want to go about flying in the sky with a parachute on, dive into the blues of the sea, or simply sit by the water and fish, this place has everything for you. Scuba Diving at Grand Island must be on your South Goa itinerary because it’s very popular here.
Apart from water sports, this Island is also known for its shipwreck sites and beautiful reefs, even more reason why you should go scuba diving. Suzy Wreck and Davy Jones’s Locker are especially popular sites. You can also try the famous banana boat ride here if you don’t have the heart for scuba diving.
A more relaxed experience on the island for you is the fishing expedition. You’ll be helped through and when you get a catch (finally), the guides or the ferry drivers will help you set up a barbecue where you can grill your catch.
How To Get To Grand Island: While the island is located in South Goa, the only accessible routes to the island are from North Goa. Fortunately, the commute from South to North won’t take you long. Once you’re in North Goa, you can take a jetty from Candolim or Sinquerim Beaches. However, the trips to Grand Island begin at 8.30 am and continue till 4.00 pm so you must time your commute to North Goa accordingly.
Summing Up
FAQs
How Many Days To Cover South Goa?
If you don’t have a lot of holidays and are planning to explore South Goa in 2 days, it should be enough to cover the highlights. However, if you have more time, 4-5 days would allow you to enjoy the region fully.
Is It Worth Staying In South Goa?
Both North and South Goa have comfortable accommodations. However, South Goa has some of the best luxury hotels and resorts.
Is INR 10,000 Enough For A Goa Trip?
Yes, if you plan your trip properly and research about the places to visit, affordable accommodation, and best restaurants beforehand. For transportation in Goa, you can use the HOHO Goa bus for INR 600.
Is South Goa Crowded?
South Goa has lots of tourist attractions that are more in touch with nature and surroundings. North Goa, on the contrary, is a party hotspot and so it is comparatively more crowded than South Goa.
In Which Month Is Goa Less Crowded?
If you want to visit Goa to enjoy the peace, go between June and September which is the off-season in Goa.
Is South Goa Worth Going?
South Goa is worth visiting as it has several places to explore and you can also trek and hike in the lush green forests.
