One can only think of beaches and its nightlife when in Goa, however, it’s rich heritage, beautiful museums and tranquil islands go unnoticed. The scenic view is a treat to drive through, almost meditative. Goa offers a comfortable drive with minimum traffic and valued discipline on roads, giving the best driving experience.
Tourists often believe that Goa is all about its beautiful beaches and fun nightlife, but Goa is beyond all of that.
To make it easier, I have listed the Top 5 places in Goa you can explore and love this state even more than you already do.
So just rent a car and drive along with me through these beautiful places and don’t forget to take in the mesmerising scenic view during the drive.
1. Cabo De Rama Fort
This beauty of a fort with a mind-blowing sunset view is situated 33.7 kms from the Goa International Airport with a very comfortable drive. The road leading to the fort is absolutely mesmerising with luscious greenery surrounding your drive.
Cabo de Rama fort is like a journey back in time. The fort is mostly in ruins, however, it’s a historical muse due to its astounding architecture. Cabo de Rama is a pit stop to take in the precious knowledge about Hindu Mythology as well as Portuguese rule.
After a visit to the fort, you can also visit its wild beach and soak in its clean water in all its glory.
Timings: 9 am to 5:30 pm
Fee: No Entry Fees
Parking: Yes
2. Mollem National Park
The Park is majorly famous for its Jungle Safaris. The best part being that vehicles are allowed to enter this national park. The Park has a large array of birds like fairy bluebird, wagtails, three-toed kingfisher, drongo, golden oriole, great Indian hornbill. Some of the birds found here are native to the region. Many species of butterflies like Blue Mormon, Crimson Rose, Tailed Jay, Malabar Tree Nymph, Tamil Yoeman, Plain Tiger and Lime Butterfly are found in this beautiful park to just add to your experience during the jungle safari in your car.
The National reserve is situated 42 kms from the Goa International Airport with a mostly comfortable drive.
Timings: 9am – 5pm
Fee: Adults: Rs 20; Children: Rs 5s
Parking: Yes
3. Museum of Goa (MOG)
As the name suggests, you will definitely fall in mog (a Konkani word meaning: love) with this museum. MOG believes in celebrating Goa’s rich history with contemporary art. The art is a creative and innovative medium of bringing in light Goa’s precious history through inclusive and beautiful art. The values behind this initiative are absolutely unique. MOG was set up in 2015 and has gathered a lot of attention from the masses. One should not forget to visit this aesthetically pleasing Museum. You might just get your right Instagram shots here while you learn about the history as well.
MOG is 38.2 kms from the Goa International Airport. The route leading you to the museum with allow you to get a glimpse of the capital of Goa: Panaji from the new bridge Atal Setu, also allowing you to skip through the traffic and reach faster.
Renting a self-driven car is as easy as just a click. You can choose a vehicle of your choice and comfort. Since there are multiple options available you can even rent it as per your budget. Give yourself an experience and rent your favourite car for your next trip to Goa!
Timings: 9am – 6pm
Fee: No Entry Fees
Parking: Yes
4. Fort Aguada
This ASI protected Monument of National Importance in Goa is situated in the North of Goa, 14.1 kms away from the Goa International Airport is a treat to your eyes. If you love to indulge yourself in some brisk history, this fort is the best place to be.
Fort Aguada was the most prized possession of the Portuguese. The fort is so large that it covers the entire peninsula at the southwestern tip of Bardez. It was very strategically located by the Portuguese on the face of Mandovi River and was the focal point of defense against the Dutch and Marathas.
The Fort won’t fail to intrigue you to the history of Goa during the Portuguese rule.
Timings: 9am – 6pm
Fee: No Entry Fees
Parking: Yes
5. Ulta Pulta Museum
You should go here if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary in Goa. It is a unique museum that is located less than a few kilometers from Goa International Airport, and is one of a kind. There is a magical illusion of being upside down at this museum, which has been carefully designed and constructed. If you are with family or friends, you are definitely going to enjoy this place. This museum offers several photography opportunities with to create memories of a lifetime!
Timings: 10am –7:30pm
Fee: Rs 300 per head
Parking: Yes
6. Bhramlok Museum
This newly opened museum in Goa is already grabbing all the attention for its out of the world 3D Art and Optical Illusion. For all the photo lovers out there, this is your spot! You are going to enjoy every corner of this incredible museum. This is definitely something you must experience when in Goa. It also is the house of an amusing mirror maze that’ll escalate your fun to another level.
Timings: 10am –7:30pm
Fee: Rs 450 per head
Parking: Yes