We all know that Goa is the party capital of India. It is also a popular destination for weekend trips and quick getaways. However, Goa is much more than what can be packed into a tight itinerary. This is why we recommend slow travel in Goa, encouraging you to embrace the Sunshine State’s susegad way of life. Derived from the Portuguese word ‘sossegado’, susegad invokes a calm and laid-back approach to life. Laze around with a good book, spend time in nature, be mindful about your food, and listen to your body. Ditch the jam-packed Goa itinerary and parties that last until sunrise to explore a different side of the state.
From serene unpeopled beaches and quiet backwaters, immersive cafes and boutique stays, to rejuvenating spas and wellness retreats, Lohono Stays brings to you a guide to slow travel in India, starting with everyone’s favourite — Goa.
Slow travel in Goa: Things to do
Spend time by the sea at these quiet beaches
While Goa’s coast is blessed with countless beaches, not all of them are ideal for a quiet vacation. Skip the crowds and head to the beaches in South Goa. We recommend Agonda Beach, Palolem Beach, and Patnem Beach. These beaches aren’t undiscovered by any means, but they have managed to retain their peaceful atmosphere. Ashwem Beach is a great choice if you are looking for a tranquil beach in North Goa.
Go for a walk on the sandy shores bordered by towering coconut and palm trees, catch a wave or two, or simply sit back and enjoy Goa’s beautiful seascape.
Explore Goa’s backwaters
While Goa’s beaches steal all the limelight, its rich network of backwaters are highly underrated. For those looking to slow travel in Goa and diving a little deeper into the state’s natural wonders, head into the backwaters. Divar Island, Mandovi River, and Chapora River boast the most beautiful backwaters in Goa. Hop on a boat and experience Goa’s lush forests and gentle waters. Adventure seekers can also rent kayaks to explore the narrower waterways and mangrove forests.
Heal your mind and body with yoga and meditation
Caught up in the everyday hustle, we often fail to pay attention to our minds and bodies. This is why we recommend slow travel in Goa. The goal is to not only to pay more attention to your surroundings but also to yourself. And no one does it better than Goa! Sign up for a yoga or meditation retreat in Goa to relieve the daily stress and rejuvenate.
Centred around nature, these retreats focus on mindfulness and well-being. If a retreat sounds like too much of a commitment, you can also sign up for individual sessions. There are several retreats and classes hosted in Assagao, Mandrem, and Patnem.
Treat yourself to a spa
Spas and wellness treatments are a great way to slow down and tend to your body. Goa’s clean atmosphere also provides the right environment for you to do so. Opt for a relaxing spa treatment, Ayurvedic massage, or other herbal therapies at one of the many wellness centres and luxury resorts sprinkled throughout Goa. With a long history of focus on wellness and therapies, this is one of the best things to do if you choose to slow travel in India.
If you are looking for a spa in Goa, we recommend Snip Salon and Spa in Candolim and Spa by Clarins at Alila Diwa in Majorda.
Step back in time at these historical sites in Goa
Besides beaches and parties, Goa also boasts a rich history — a beautiful amalgamation of different communities coming together across time. This history continues to be symbolised through the churches, forts, and colonial-era buildings found in Goa. Take your time and explore these sites, from the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral to the forts at Chapora and Reis Magos. Learning about the past is a key element of slow travel in Goa.
Join a cooking class
The best way to learn about a culture is through their food. Hence, to further immerse yourself on your Goa trip, join a cooking class. You can learn how to cook traditional Goan delicacies, inspired by both Konkani and Portuguese dishes. These include but are not limited to fish curries, xacuti, vindaloo, and bebinca, among a host of other scrumptious items.
Want to join a cooking class in Goa? Check out Rita’s Gourmet Goa in Dabolim or Rahul Cookery Class in Palolem.
Explore Goa’s local markets
Goa has several flea markets and night markets that you should visit on your trip. Wander through these markets at your own pace, and maybe indulge in a little shopping. They are also great for learning more about the region’s art and handicrafts.
Visit Anjuna Flea Market for locally made jewellery, pottery, and traditional Goan artwork. Mapusa Market is famous for its offering of local produce, spices, and Goan sweets. On the other hand, you can also time your visit for the weekly Saturday night market in Arpora. Here you will find handmade clothes, jewellery, home decor items, and other souvenirs.
Watch the sunset by the sea
Few things in life feel as therapeutic as watching a vibrant sunset. Add in a sea view and the experience becomes even better. You must watch a sunset over the Arabian Sea to draw your days of slow travel in Goa to a blissful end. The best spots to watch the sunset in Goa include Chapora Fort, Sinquerim Beach, Arambol Beach, Vagator Beach, and Anjuna Beach.
Slow travel in Goa: Where to eat?
Goa is one of the best destinations for slow travel in India because of its thriving café culture. Pick from one of the countless cafés throughout the state where you can spend your time reading, writing, journaling, or simply people-watching.
Here are a few of our recommendations for an immersive café experience in Goa, to further soak yourself in the laid-back atmosphere:
Café Alchemia, Anjuna
Bearing an artistic ambience, the café’s interiors are vintage-inspired and also come with an al fresco setting. They serve a mix of Goan, Portuguese, and continental cuisines. It is a great place to unwind with a book or engage in meaningful conversations with your family, friends, or fellow travellers.
Artjuna Café, Anjuna
One of Goa’s most popular cafes, Artjuna is an artsy space with a bohemian vibe. Its garden setting offers a calm and creative environment. Their menu focuses on health and well-being, with an array of breakfast, brunch, and Mediterranean options, among others. They also organise yoga classes and workshops. They also have an in-house boutique selling handmade items.
Café Bodega, Panjim
This chef-owned cafe is located within the Sunaparanta Art Centre. The ambience is quiet and serene, making it a great spot as you slow travel in Goa. They are known for their delicious selection of cakes and coffee, among other lighter meals. It is a must-visit cafe for lovers of art and solitude. You can also explore the art gallery or attend an art workshop.
Gunpowder, Assagao
If you looking to spend a relaxed afternoon in Goa, over a long meal, head to Gunpowder. With rustic yet chic interiors, the restaurant is set in a beautiful garden. They are well-known for their South Indian cuisine, especially their seafood. And their desserts are just as good! We recommend an afternoon at Gunpowder for a scrumptious meal enjoyed in its tropical ambience.
Mojigao Café, Assagao
Offering the perfect escape from the hustle of everyday life, Mojigao Cafe is part of a wellness resort. It is surrounded by lavish greenery, placing you right at the heart of nature. It is a great choice for healthy eating. Choose from their selection of breakfast items, along with Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. The food here is prepared with organic and locally sourced ingredients. Join their yoga class to add to the experience, or simply unwind in their garden.
Prana Café, Mandrem
Part of a yoga retreat, the cafe is located close to Ashwem Beach. Their core principle of wellness is reflected in their menu, offering organic, vegan, and gluten-free options. The decor also reflects their approach, with earthy tones and sustainable design. If you are looking for a calm atmosphere during your slow travel in Goa, along with healthy food, you should head to Prana.
Slow travel in Goa: Where to stay?
Looking for a place to stay on your next trip to Goa? Looking no further than Lohono Stays. We have a wide range of luxury villas in Goa. No matter what kind of location you are looking for — hill-top, beach-side, or river-side — we have got you covered.
Our villas come in a mix of different styles, inspired by Mediterranean houses, traditional Indian havelis, or the quintessential Goan home. Hospitality and service across all our properties is top-notch. Ideal for intimate breaks in small numbers, or larger groups of family and friends, we have something for everyone.
You can find our villas in a number of different locations, including Assagon, Mandrem, Siolim, Vagator, and Chapora. You can check out more of our villas here.
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Goa is one of the best travel destinations in India for a reason. Whether you are looking for natural beauty, history, culture, food or wellness. Your trip becomes even better when you choose to switch things up and slow travel in Goa. This allows you to experience things in a deeper way, while also rejuvenating your mind and body. With this guide to slow travel in Goa, we hope we have equipped you for your next holiday!
