Goa for monsoon trip: 8 hidden places to visit during the rainy season
Beach, water sports, hammocks, straw hats, and all the tropical vibes have been the quintessential image of Goa for long. Goa may be the ultimate tropical getaway in India, but there's another side to it; when the monsoon rolls in, the landscape transforms into a green wonderland with clean air, dreamy skies, and dense forests appearing greener. It's an ideal time to reconnect with nature, soaking in all its unrestrained beauty, from roaring waterfalls to misty forest trails in cool rain. Monsoon brings you close to the soulful side of Goa.
ALSO READ: Move over fridge magnets and postcards: Here are the authentic Goa souvenirs to grab on your next visit
Kedar Naik, Director of the Department of Tourism at the Government of Goa, shared eight spots you can head to if Goa is on your itinerary this monsoon:
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ALSO READ: Goa-inspired interiors: This summer, bring home coastal charm with these design tips
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Hindustan Times
21 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Goa for monsoon trip: 8 hidden places to visit during the rainy season
Beach, water sports, hammocks, straw hats, and all the tropical vibes have been the quintessential image of Goa for long. Goa may be the ultimate tropical getaway in India, but there's another side to it; when the monsoon rolls in, the landscape transforms into a green wonderland with clean air, dreamy skies, and dense forests appearing greener. It's an ideal time to reconnect with nature, soaking in all its unrestrained beauty, from roaring waterfalls to misty forest trails in cool rain. Monsoon brings you close to the soulful side of Goa. ALSO READ: Move over fridge magnets and postcards: Here are the authentic Goa souvenirs to grab on your next visit Kedar Naik, Director of the Department of Tourism at the Government of Goa, shared eight spots you can head to if Goa is on your itinerary this monsoon: A post shared by Goa (@goa) A post shared by Ankur Jain (@ankur.22j) A post shared by Sreejith S (@notonthemap) A post shared by dehradun official page (@dehradun_official_page) A post shared by Goa Darling ® (@goa_darling) A post shared by Explorers (@_explorersofficial_) A post shared by Lua Cheia Villa (@luacheiavilla) A post shared by Dr. Greeshma Upendra (@dr_greeshma92) ALSO READ: Goa-inspired interiors: This summer, bring home coastal charm with these design tips
NDTV
a day ago
- NDTV
India's 6 Most Photogenic Neighbourhoods That Belong On Your Instagram Grid
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Fort Kochi, Kerala Why: A coastal time capsule where every wall tells a story Fort Kochi isn't just photogenic — it's cinematic. This small seaside neighbourhood in Kerala is a fusion of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, with colonial-era buildings and fading pastel walls that look straight out of a Wes Anderson set. You'll spot Chinese fishing nets gently swaying over the Arabian Sea (best viewed at sunset), tree-lined lanes shaded by bougainvillaea, and art-filled cafes tucked behind antique doors. Don't miss the street murals that pop up across the city every year during the Kochi-Muziris Biennale — they're layered, local, and often political. Top shot: The vibrant Kashi Art Cafe lane or the fishing nets during golden hour. 2. Pondicherry's White Town, Tamil Nadu Why: Paris meets the tropics with a side of iced coffee The White Town neighbourhood in Pondicherry is a masterclass in colour coordination. Think mustard-yellow facades, white-trimmed windows, coral-pink townhouses and quiet lanes with French signage. It's no wonder it's a favourite with fashion shoots and pre-wedding photographers. The area's grid layout, relics of French colonial planning, makes it a pleasure to wander — or cycle — through. Pop into cafes with cane furniture and mint-green walls, or simply stand in front of the mustard Hotel de Ville and pretend you're in Europe (because honestly, it's hard to tell). Top shot: The salmon-pink Church of Our Lady of Angels or a door-framed portrait along Rue Romain Rolland. 3. Hauz Khas Village, Delhi Why: Urban grit meets ancient ruins in the capital's artsy heart It may not be as polished as some on this list, but Hauz Khas Village brings edge and attitude. Tucked in South Delhi, this neighbourhood is known for its trendy boutiques, graffiti-covered walls, and rooftop cafes overlooking a 13th-century reservoir and medieval tombs. The contrast is what makes it photogenic: centuries-old stone domes stand quietly behind neon signage and moody staircases. It's where fashion kids shoot lookbooks and creators find that gritty-but-glam backdrop for Reels. The bonus? Deer Park is right next door. Top shot: The dome-framed view of the Hauz Khas Lake from the old madrasa ruins. 4. Colaba, Mumbai Why: Maximum city's most stylish streets and stories Colaba is the kind of neighbourhood where you'll find a fashion editorial being shot outside a crumbling colonial building while someone else orders vada pav next to a Bentley. It's chaotic in the best way. The Gothic architecture of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, the iconic Gateway of India, and the century-old art deco buildings all make this one of Mumbai's most visually compelling pockets. Add in colourful markets, art galleries, and the gorgeous dome of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel — and you've got endless content. Top shot: The arches at the Gateway of India with pigeons mid-flight — timeless and dramatic. 5. Amer, Rajasthan Why: Dusty pink hues, mirror mosaics, and elephant shadows Just a short drive from Jaipur, the town of Amer (also spelled Amber) is like stepping into a photo filter called "vintage royal." The main draw is the Amer Fort, with its maze of courtyards, frescoed hallways, and mirrored palaces that shimmer with light. But wander down from the fort and you'll find sleepy streets with faded havelis, locals in brightly coloured turbans, and camels casually parked next to pastel homes. The soft Rajasthani light gives everything a rosy tint — no filter necessary. Top shot: The Sheesh Mahal inside Amer Fort or the sweeping staircases that lead to the main gate. 6. Fontainhas, Goa Why: Latin charm, crumbling colour, and zero bad angles Fontainhas isn't just a neighbourhood — it's a living postcard. 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India.com
4 days ago
- India.com
Discover The 7 Best Mindfulness Spots In Goa You Can't Miss
Goa stands as an energizing coastal part of India which people traditionally identify with beachfront relaxation and cultural diversity and active late-night socializing. Apart from its crowded tourist sites Goa presents peaceful locations which invite visitors toward meditation practices along with yoga along with self-contemplation. People seeking either relaxation as Goa City residents or visitors will discover these outstanding locations where they can practice mindful living. 1. Miramar Beach: A Tranquil Seaside Retreat You can practice mindfulness at the beach in Miramar Beach where it is situated near Panaji (the capital city of Goa). Visitors tend to prefer Miramar beach instead of Baga or Calangute due to its peaceful nature which creates perfect conditions for seafront meditation sessions. The repetitive wave sounds against the beachfront serve as an acoustic relaxation tool when you perform deep breathing exercises and practice grounding exercises. You can practice mindfulness among natural surroundings at Miramar Beach during early mornings because it offers a quiet experience to connect with nature. 2. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: Nature's Haven for Reflection Located on Chorão island, a quick boat journey from Panaji awaits visitors of the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary which functions as a hidden natural haven for those who need peace among nature. Scattered throughout the mangrove ecosystem of this sanctuary you will discover different bird species which include kingfishers and eagles with herons among them. Passing through the verdant landscape with the bird calls in the background helps create a calm state of mind and teach awareness of the present moment. Walking meditation leads to environmental connection while navigating trails at the same time one can deepen their bond with nature by sitting peacefully beneath tree shade. 3. Fontainhas: A Walk Through Heritage Streets Fontainhas in Goa possesses renowned status because of its Portuguese-inspired housing along with its maze-shaped lanes and dynamic arts atmosphere. Fontainhas enables mindfulness practice through its potential to encourage observation activities although it does not fit commonly accepted mindfulness destinations. Pay close attention to the decorative elements that adorn Fontainhas' pathways including beautiful balconies and street art drawings and charming little eateries. Make the most of your natural abilities by paying attention to sights together with sounds and smells in your environment. The leisurely speed of this journey supports awareness and thankfulness in visitors. 4. Dona Paula Viewpoint: Where Land Meets Sea From its hilltop vantage point Dona Paula View Point serves as an outstanding spot for mindfulness since it surveys the spot where the Zuari River meets the Arabian Sea. The breathtaking ocean views combined with panoramic cliff vistas naturally make people experience peace and clarity. When the sun sets at Dona Paula Viewpoint numerous visitors join to practice breathing meditation while observing the sky take on pink and orange tones. This site suits both writing in a journal or setting goals for developing as an individual. 5. Carmo Church & Convent: Spiritual Serenity The true spiritual connection between mindfulness can be found at Carmo Church and Convent in Old Goa. The historic 16th-century church stands as a sanctuary of peace which embraces visitors with a spiritual ambiance. People can use this vast courtyard with peaceful interiors to practice silent meditation and prayer. Spending time in these devoted places brings out inner tranquility even to those who do not practice a religion. People visiting these walls will hear the calm sounds of spiritual devotion that inspire moments for contemplation. 6. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary: Immersion in Wilderness Bordering Panaji with a distance of 60 minutes lies the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary which covers 240 square kilometers within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Western Ghats. Located in Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary you can perform mindfulness activities among dense forests which cascade towards waterfalls and house numerous wildlife species. Forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) allows you to practice by experiencing the sights combined with scent and touch elements of jungle environments. By escaping from city noise you can sense quiet rustling leaves and faraway animal sounds which create mental calmness and improve your senses. 7. Riverside Cafes Along Mandovi River: Mindful Moments Over Coffee Mindfulness emerges naturally when people view the serene passage of the Mandovi River through Goa City. People can find a relaxing atmosphere in Panaji riverfront cafes where they can enjoy drinking tea or coffee while viewing the water. Boats traveling on the river together with surface light reflections create an atmosphere of inner peace for viewers. Extending beyond their indoors the cafes feature green-friendly outdoor spaces which make it easy to focus on the present moment. Final Thoughts Among Goa City's well-known vibrant atmosphere rests multiple peaceful spots which provide ideal spaces for people to develop mindfulness. The charming beachscape of Miramar meets the vibrant bird sanctuary at Salim Ali and Carmo Church provides a sacred atmosphere that each place independently delivers for spiritual seekers. Adding mindfulness exercises to your visits at these locations will strengthen your bond with personal growth while nurturing your relationship with Mother Nature. The practice of mindfulness at every spot in Goa takes place through ocean views and architectural landmarks as well as natural wildlife observation because it remains focused on the present moment without forming opinions. Travel to Goa City and start your self-discovery journey with yoga mats and journals at hand.
