Mahindra Homestays » Goa

Stunning images of Goa and Maharashtra beaches

Mahindra Homestays — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 20:00:16 +0000

With over 40 mesmerizing beaches dotting the 131 km-long palm-fringed coastline, Goa is a beach lovers dream destination. From party beaches with all night revelry to hidden sun-kissed coves where you won’t see another soul, Goa has something for everyone.

Not to be outdone, neighbouring state Maharashtra also boasts a fantastic selection of golden sands alongside famous sights like the Sindhudurg Fort.

Our Go Goa itinerary combines both to give you plenty of opportunity to combine both destinations and relax and enjoy the best of coastal India. We’ve picked some of our favourite photos of the beaches and places that are part of this trip.

Sunset on the famous Colva beach.

Fresh seafood is plentiful; visit the fish market at Margao for some great picture opportunities and to pick up some fresh fish.

It’s not just the humans who enjoy the shade of the tall palms dotted along Colva beach.

Sindhudurg fort is of the best preserved forts of the Marathas and occupies an islet in the Arabian Sea, just off the coast of Maharashtra.

Sunset on Tarkarli beach in Maharashtra.

Vengurla beach in Maharashtra at low-tide. This stretch of coastline is dotted with pristine beaches.

When you are all beached out, visit Amboli a British era hill station in Maharashtra as a day trip. Pictured are the impressive Kavlesaad waterfalls.

If you would like to explore the beaches of Goa and Maharashtra we have a five day package available from £261/ 21,370 INR / $427 USD total price per person on twin sharing. Please note that prices are subject to currency fluctuations. Prices are valid until March 2013.

Thanks to the photographers who shared their images under Creative Commons licence. All images link back to the original source by way of credit.

Goa in the monsoon

Mahindra Homestays — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 02:15:54 +0000

Sun, surf, sand, fish, feni, fun; that’s the essence of Goa, India’s beach paradise, in a nutshell. And Goa lives up to the image very well indeed. When we think of Goa, stretches of powdery sands, swishing palms, sunbathing holidaymakers, endless rows of beach shacks, adventurous divers and parasailing enthusiasts are only a few of the ‘typical’ picture that comes to mind.

Not many of us think rainclouds on the horizon at the mention of Goa. Or lush green paddy fields for that matter. Rainwashed cobbled streets, shining church spires, gushing rivers and streams, thundering waterfalls… but that’s what Goa is all about when the sun bows out to the monsoon clouds every year. From late June to early September, Goa transforms into a sensuous seductress as opposed to the cheery, bright, bubbly beach damsel she is.

If you love going off the beaten track, get to Goa while it still rains and come back with an experience that only a few can claim to have had. Here are our favourite ways to experience Goa in the monsoon.

Trek to Dudhsagar Falls
Milky Way on Earth; that’s how most locals like to describe the Dudhsagar, on Goa’s border with Karnataka. And the trek to the Falls, with its thundering cascades, involves climbing boulders, crossing bridges and tunnels, and of course getting soaked to the skin.

Beaches of South Goa
Far from the “hippie haven” image of beaches across North Goa, the South is quieter, peaceful and more scenic. While you should avoid swimming in the sea during monsoon, you can always walk from one beach to the other, making a detour into the villages for a glimpse of the emerald green fields surrounded by rivulets, tiled-roof houses, chapels and crumbling Portuguese mansions. The landscape is truly beautiful and may bring out the artist in you, pack a canvas, easel and colours if you are so inclined or get snapping on your camera.

Explore Museums
This is something you may not even dream of when the sun is up and about. However, going indoors is a good idea when the rain is lashing the beaches. For such a small state, Goa has an impressive collection of museums. Goa Chitra Museum is widely praised for its impressive chronicle of architectural and cultural artefacts. The Pilar Museum has an excellent stamp and coin collection as well as a stunning stained glass window created by Angelo da Fonseca. Don’t miss the ship-shaped Houses of Goa Museum.

Go Birding
An early morning trip to a birding spot will be rewarded with an amazing variety of feathered beauties. Start at the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on the island of Chorao. Standing at the watchtower, you can spot Brahminy kites, egrets, kingfishers and several types of waders. The Carambolim Lake is another good birding spot.

Spice It Up
Nutmeg, vanilla, cardamom, pepper, cloves, chilli, cinnamon; if you are thinking we are about to tell you a recipe, you’re wrong. This is a sampling of the spices grown in Goa and a plantation tour is what you need to see it for yourself. Most of the plantations are concentrated in Ponda, and if you are staying in a homestay the owner will help you book a tour. The gurgling of rain-fed streams, birdsong, the fragrance of spices wafting in the air and the soothing shades of green make this tour truly worthwhile.

Image credits to Ramesh Lyanswamy who shared them under the Creative Commons licence. All images link back to the original source.

Places to see in North Goa

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 23:47:29 +0000

Being the smallest state in India does not stop Goa from being one of the most vibrant destinations. Apart from being the perfect getaway for a tan, Goa offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in Indian culture as well as an impressive 101 kilometres coastline.

North Goa is definitely the more energetic part of the state. You can find both serene beaches and those filled with activities – there is an option to do both. Here are some of the places to see in North Goa.

1. The Lonely Beaches of Goa: When you think of the northern most tip of Goa, think flat subtle coastline, long stretches of nothingness and the clear warm days. Ashwem, Arambol (pictured above) and Morjim beaches on the northern most part of the coastline give you just that experience. There are many shacks that provide great food, sun bathing chairs, make shift shades and a constant supply of your favourite beverage. A great way to spend the days lethargically!

2. Bursting with energy: The most popular belt of the Goa beaches also lies in the North – Baga (pictured above), Candolim, Anjuna & Calangute. It’s a favourite with foodies, those who like to shake a leg in the clubs and ofcourse the shoppers. The beaches are abuzz with tourists, packed in shacks which offer great food and music. The long stretch of beaches from Candolim to Baga is great to see the effervescent tourist culture of Goa in the travel heavy months.

3. Shopping: The flea markets of Goa are the one you should be scouring if you have an exclusive taste in fashion. The hippie culture runs strong in these flea markets that are organised during the heavy travel season on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Anjuna (pictured above), Ingo’s and Macky’s are the popular flea markets to pick up interesting curios, clothes and bric-a-bracs and a must on your places to visit in North Goa list!

4. The Mapusa Market: Unfortunately a lot of indigenous Goa gets lost in the tourist crowds. If you want a slice of real Goa, visit the bursting Mapusa market on a Sunday and enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of vegetables, colourful clothes, slippers and the huge meat market. A great place for photo-opportunities; this is going to give you a real taste of Goan culture. Many locals travel from far distances to shop and sell their wares in this weekly market.

5. Bicholim: Bicholim is the heart of the Goan pottery. Almost muddy with red brown soil, this is a great place to give the kids an education on the local pottery scene. You can also pick up some hand-made objects and interact with the potters themselves. Bicholim’s landscape is dotted with lakes and waterfalls. The serene Mayem lake (pictured above) is a great nature spot where you can enjoy boating making it a great place to see in North Goa.

Mix your stay in North Goa with beachside activities and also a bit of the authentic local culture to get a complete Indian experience.

If you would like to visit these places in North Goa contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans. You can also check out our North Goa homestay collection.

Many thanks to the photographers who share their images under the Creative Commons licence. All images link back to the original source.

Beaches of India: Colva Beach in Goa

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 02:22:46 +0000

Goa has an impressive list of beaches to choose from along it’s generous coastline, and one longest and most popular is the white sandy stretch of Colva Beach.

Colva Beach
Lying relatively in the centre of the coastline Covla Beach is in a convenient spot over extreme northern or southern beaches. Given its proximity to the railway station, bus stop and airport, Colva Beach is buzzing with visitors offering plenty of opportunities to meet other travellers and locals.

The sand at Colva as compared to other parts of Goa is exceptionally soft. Colva stretches over a large expanse and hence accommodates two distinct parts – one which is isolated where you can find a lone spot quite easily, and the other which is bustling with locals and tourists enjoying water sports.

After a long day of relaxation, you can watch the energetic activities on the beach front as the sun goes down.

When to go
Goa is best during the cooler period of October to March. Ensure that you book ahead as this is a busy season. Tourists have also started visiting during the monsoon months of July and August attracted by plenty of discounts and the opportunity to see Goa without the crowds.

Packing Musts
Though everything is easily available at the Colva market, flip-flops and sunscreen are a must when visiting Goa.

Things to Do in Colva

1. Indulge in Sea Food – Colva is one of the better destinations to get a sumptuous fill of good sea food as the beach caters to a large amount of western tourists and the shacks there have mastered the skill of making good sea treats.
2. Karaoke at the Local Bar -The small bars in Colva are packed in the evenings with music enthusiasts who want to give it a shot at singing. A brilliant place to make new friends and get adventurous with the microphone.
3. Water Sports – Apart from few other beaches in North Goa, Colva offers a number of water sport options. Banana boats and sea scooters are available to hire. You can also see a host of people paragliding in the evening sun.
4. Cycling – Colva has a long stretch towards the north which is relatively unvisited. The road is paved and runs along smoothly at a close distance from the beach. It’s a great place to cycle along watching the fields on one side and the sea on the other.
5. Sunbathe and Relax – Find yourself an isolated spot, dig in the umbrella and grab your favourite book – with the perfect companions of sunbathing, you are bound to get a successful Indian tan.

Find out more about Goa or browse our Goa homestay collection.

If you would like to visit Goa contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans.

Things to do in Margao, Goa

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 01:12:21 +0000

Goa might be famous for the sea and sand but away from the crowds discover the old-world charm of Margao where Portuguese churches and colonial bungalows that line the shaded streets of this vibrant city. We look at the things to do in Margao.

THINGS TO DO IN MARGAO

Architecture Walk – The old buildings still emanate a strong sensibility of architecture in the times of Portuguese occupation. There is a mix of both Hindu and Christian buildings that speak of the multi-cultural subsistence. Take a walk with a local or by yourself for some great photo-opportunities. Look out for the majestic city hall and the municipal garden.

Local Market – The Margao market is one of the most famous and vibrant places in the whole of Goa. Fishermen, local vegetable sellers and other shopkeepers offer a variety of wares. Again, a great place to see more local life of Goa rather than just hit the sands. One special market here is called the ‘closed market’ or ‘Pimplapedd’ in Konkani.

Local places to visit – Anna Fonte or the natural springs are another spot that you can visit

Churches – The three Christian buildings, the Holy Spirit Church, grand colonial mansions and the chapel at Monte Hill are also charming additions to your itinerary. The popular church circuit includes Holy Spirit Church, the Grace Church, The St Sebastian Church in Aquem, the Sebastian Church and the Monte Hill Chapel.

Temples - On the other hand the Hindu temples that might be of interest you are, the ‘Damodar Temple’, the ‘Hari Mandir’, the ‘Maruti Mandir’ at Davorlim, the ‘Saibaba Temple’ at Davorlim and the ‘Shiv Temple’.

Hit the beach – Colva is the closest beach to Margao and has vast stretches of low gradient beaches. Enjoy the lovely sea food and water sports here.

WHEN TO GO
As is true for the rest of the state, the months from October to February are great to travel in.

LOCAL FESTIVALS
There are a few local festivals like the Dindi festival at the Vithal Rakhumai temple which happens a couple of days after Diwali. Also the feast of the Holy Spirit Church is another local event, held before the monsoons.

HOW TO GET THERE
One of Goa’s prominent railway stations is here in Margao, so the rail connectivity to other parts of India is very good. The airport in Vasco is also close to Margao.

WHERE TO STAY
Stay at Arco Iris homestay, a bright yellow house in Curtorim village is ideally located just 5km from Margao and 3km from Colva beach.

Best places to enjoy India nightlife

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 22:45:40 +0000

After battling whole new stimuli of smells, sounds and sights of India, one can do with a break at the end of travelling to temples and monuments. Most visitors pass through or enter India through the major metros, where most of the night life exists. India is not counted as one of the top party destinations, but its colonial past has left some remnants of clubs and nightlife. We pick out the top seven spots for a fun urban evening where you can enjoy India nightlife!

1. Mumbai
The vibrant city of Mumbai is certainly one of the few destinations in India, which can claim to have nightlife at all. Safe for women to travel even late at night, Mumbai has a burgeoning pub and live gigs culture. Some of the places that one must visit are Totos in Bandra for an old school feel of grabbing a beer with a friend, amidst loud thumping music from the 70s and 80s. Bandra has a bustling nightlife with a few pubs strewn in the area. This is probably where one can hop from one place to another; else the distances in Mumbai are long to traverse in the middle of the night. Blue Frog and Jazz by the Bay are some other options for live gigs and karaoke nights. Stand up Comedy is high on the list of things to do for the younger generation. Catch some fresh Indian talent at the Comedy Store and Cafe Goa, and some alcohol to go along with.

2. Goa
Goa has always been the destination of deliverance where nightlife spots are concerned. Usually when the season in bustling with foreign internationals, so are the party spots of Goa. This is between October to March. For the rest of the year, it is not worth your while to go looking for a spectacular nightlife here. While Titos and Mambos were the stalwarts of nightlife for many years, now newer names like Butter Lounge and Shiros rule the roost. On Saturday night, join the party goers at Anjuna Beach to catch some trance and psychedelic music. Image credit by Berno

3. Delhi
Apart from the mainstream drink and dance places in Delhi, there is a whole new breed of underground music artistes who are bringing a fresh dimension for people who always want to be surprised. Catch B.L.O.T, Sifar and others who are hitting some new genres in Delhi. Shalom, Djinns, Mirage, Sahara, Mezz and Ministry of Sound are some places where you can catch some action on the music and dance scene in Delhi. Be careful as to be escorted by known people only and book your cab ahead if everyone in the group is drinking.

4. Bangalore
With a legacy of being the ‘beer and pub’ city of the country, Bangalore might have lost some lustre where the nightlife is concerned, but its easy paced fun is contagious. Still a great place to get a beer and enjoy the weather, Bangalore has a number of places to enjoy the evenings, except that one must wrap up by 11.30 p.m Jayamahal Palace for a slice of royalty, 13^th floor for the old timers and Toit, the latest addition, are all great places to catch up with friends. Places like Dewers, the first pub of Bangalore, are sorely missed by the locals. Another great pub for which many eulogies have been written but it still appeals to many, is Pecos. Known for its esoteric choice of music with jazz and blues, people still like Pecos for its impressive collection of cassettes. Try another classic place called Styx for some heavy metal. Though dancing is not allowed in Bangalore, Mynt is the only reasonable place where one can shake a leg. The central M.G Road area is known to have over 40 pubs in a radius of 1 kilometre.

5. Chennai
Unlike its image of a largely middle-class lifestyle, Chennai’s nightlife has been on an upswing for the last 5 years or so. Names like Dublin, Zara (an old time favourite), Hell Freezes Over, Bikes and Barrels and Geoffrey’s are names the young lot reckon with. Be at any of these for a fun filled evening.

6. Hyderabad
10 Downing Street, Bottles and Chimneys, Touch, Liquids, N, Ahala, Excess and Torque are some of the places which are worth your while in the ever growing pub scene of Hyderabad. The music sometimes can be a disappointment, but the number and variety of places in Hyderabad that make the nightlife more exciting, are in plenty. Try some ‘Famous’ ice-cream after you are done for the night.

7. Varkala
A surprise entry on the nightlife sector, but Varkala certainly owns a special spot here! The calm beaches on the edge of a cliff are the perfect backdrop for a couple of drinks in the months of October to March.

If you would like your next trip to include some of our top picks for India nightlife then get in touch and we can help you plan a fantastic itinerary.

For accommodation in India take a look at our homestay collection. Your hosts will be happy to help you find the best places locally for a good night out!

Best Monsoon Destinations of India – Head Westward!

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 21:34:01 +0000

As the first shower of the season hits the coastal towns of India, off-beat traveller start planning a monsoon holiday. Not inhibited by clouds or even water wading moments, travelling during the Indian monsoons can be an invigorating experience. There is nothing better than a rain-washed, lush country side and of course discounted rates for many destinations. We take you through some of the best monsoon destinations in India and encourage you to head west!

Goa in monsoon season
Known for its sprawling beaches, an erstwhile legacy of hippy love and an alternative style made to fit, here’s Goa in a whole new light. There is such a distinct change in the environs of Goa between the hot summer months and the cloudy monsoons that it is even worth visiting twice in a year!

For those who want to feel the drizzle on their faces and have a different rendezvous with the sea, Goa should be on your list. While it rains ensure that you have a warm comfortable bed and some great conversation to bank on. Then take your weather beaten umbrella to the Vagator beach for a vantage view point at the Thallasa Greek Restaurant or sit at Fort Aguada to see the water from the skies and sea, mingle in a turbulent mess!

Travelling during the monsoon season is a great time to mix with the locals during some of the lesser known festivals. Bonderam is one such festival, which is specific to Divar Island, off Old Goa. To commemorate old battles fought, young boys and girls re-enact the times in costumes. Don’t miss their mock missiles made of berries and weapons of bamboos. The festival ends with a parade which has everyone joining in the merriment.

The monsoon season is also a good time to explore the wildlife of Goa. Take in the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, which is is not too far from Usgaon. Alternatively, just off Canacona, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to spot wild boar, langurs, bisons and plenty of avian life. Watch out for the leeches and be sure to carry some sturdy boots.

Kerala in monsoon season
The Western Coast remains one of greenest and freshest at this time, so Kerala should definitely be on the list. Depart from the coast onto the Northern and Western regions of the state. The Kasargod area still remains un-tread upon and of course Wayanad is an established getaway for the rains. While in Wayanad, see if you can catch the Splash Carnival, a Kerala Government endeavour where cultural programmes, indoor and outdoor games, and variety of competitions await travellers.

Maharashtra in monsoon season
Wander about on the Western Coast of the country and the delights don’t stop. For all of you who want to get out of jammed Mumbai roads in the thick of the monsoons, all you need to do is head out a short distance away. In Maharashtra take your pick from short hikes or long stays at Matheran, the Kondana and Kanheri Caves or just plunge into the frothy waters for a rafting trip.

Karnataka in monsoon season
Likewise, as you keep heading northwards, coastal Karnataka gets its fair share of monsoon magic in places like Dandeli and the Brahamgiri ranges. Apart from the fact that this time of the year is rather cooler and free of tourists the monsoon months also make many places affordable.

So pack your flip-flops and a sturdy umbrella and head out to towards the West coast of India.

If you would like to travel in India during the monsoon season contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans. There is currently 50% discount on selected homestays so curl up with a book, listen to fascinating stories from your hosts and enjoy delicious home cooked food while you wait for a break in the rain to explore the countryside at it’s lushest best!

Beaches of India: Gokarna beaches

Mahindra Homestays — Fri, 06 May 2011 04:38:47 +0000

Gokarna is one of the lesser known beach-towns lying in the middle of Goa and Karnataka. In many ways it has the best of Goa’s beauty without its gnarly drunkenness. Here is all you need to know about this lovely, laidback town.

BEACHES
There are four main beaches in Gokarna – Kudlee Beach (pictured above), Om Beach (pictured below), Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach (in order from North to South). As one goes further South, the beaches become even more secluded and pristine. Walking is the most common way of getting around. However, auto-rickshaws between the popular beaches are also available. Currents change on a day to day basis, sometimes making the waters too dangerous for a swim.

FESTIVAL
Gokarna is most crowded during Shivaratri (February/March) when up to 20,000 pilgrims invade the small beach town. The 4-day festival involves large scale celebrations wherein two mammoth chariots are pulled across the main town.

THINGS TO DO
Most visitors will be there to spend time on the beautiful beaches to the south. Enjoy the sea and the views from the beach cafes or play volleyball on the sand. The beaches are clean, but ask locally about swimming, as currents can be strong.

GETTING THERE
The nearest airport is in Goa. From Margao, which is 125 kms away one can take a train or a pre-booked taxi. With advance booking taxis or trains can also be taken from Mangalore or Bangalore, which are 225 km and 475 km away respectively.

EAT AND DRINK
Sea food is freely available. Thalis are fabulously inexpensive. The Namaste Cafe on Om Beach serves good Mexican, Israeli and Indian food. Restaurants are not allowed to serve hard liquor. Hence, beer is usually the only option.

STAY
There are many hotels and shacks in Gokarna however the nearest homestays are in
Margao where you can choose from Arco Iris and Stainglass Cottage or alternatively stay in Bangalore at the Carmel Homestay.

If you would like to include Palolem beach on your India itinerary contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans.

Beaches of India: Palolem beach

Mahindra Homestays — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 03:00:21 +0000

Palolem beach is one of those Goan beaches, which the average traveller has probably never heard about. But that is the best part about it. Here is everything you need to know about this South Goan beauty.

The beach
Palolem Beach has all of Goa’s beauty but none of its commercialisation. The area is mainly occupied local fishermen and a handful of solitude loving tourists. It is a swimmer-friendly beach, which stretches out for over 1.5 kms. The depth of the sea increases gradually and the currents are not fast.

Activities you can try include scuba diving or renting a self-paddle sea kayak boat but the main attraction is just enjoying the unspoilt surroundings.

Food
The region’s speciality is obviously sea food and there are plenty of places around Palolem beach where you can enjoy great food.

Brown Bread is good for coffee and snacks with a wide range of fresh breads and cakes. Blue Planet, a family run organic vegetarian cafe is good if you are looking for health food. Casa Fiesta, The Nest, Magic Italy and Alessandra’s are other great places serving a plethora of good dishes. As day turns to night check out Cafe Del Mar, a great 24-hour bar or head to Live Star for great cocktails.

Getting there
Palolem beach is merely three kms from Canacona Rail Junction and about half an hour away from Margao. By road, Panaji is 70 kms away and the most economical way to travel is by train.

Where to Stay
Arco Iris and Stainglass Cottage are two beautiful homestays in Margao, both within easy reach of Palolem beach

If you would like to include Palolem beach on your India itinerary contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans.

Beaches of India: Baga beach

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 08:12:25 +0000

Baga Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Goa. You can plenty of water sports, restaurants, bars and numerous other activities to enjoy. Baga beach can be categorised as a family beach with a throbbing nightlife. It’s almost always crowded but it is clean, safe and dynamic.

EATING OUT

Beachside restaurants line Baga beach and its neighbour Callingute beach. Sea food is Goa’s speciality and alcohol here is tax free and therefore inexpensive unless you’re in an upscale place. Goa has long been the world’s party playground attracting travellers from all over so restaurant menus have been influenced heavily by all parts of the world. Every cuisine can be found and you will often find eateries run by ex-pats who’ve opened their own food joints.

GETTING TO BAGA BEACH

Goa is connected by air to all major Indian cities so it is easy to reach Baga beach. From Mumbai many people choose to drive down. Taxis from the airport and the train station are easily available. To and fro transfers are usually arranged by hotels, resorts and homestays upon prior request.

WHERE TO STAY

There are some very unique homestays in Goa, 30 Assagao, Only Olive, Capella and Casa de Morada are all within easy reach of Baga beach.

OTHER BEACHES OF INDIA TO CHECK OUT

Alleppey Beach
Kashid beach