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Hidden Places in Goa

Found in South Goa in the vicinity of the Karnataka border, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is an enchanting area of more than 80 square kilometers of land and is yet one of the hidden places in Goa. Standing as the second-largest woodland in the state, the place is home to a number of soaring trees with some of them towering up to 30 meters from the ground.

Built in 1968, the Cotigao Sanctuary works as a shelter for several species of flora and fauna. From a varied culture of Panthers, Hyenas, sloth bears to squirrels, tigers, lions and more, the place serves as the perfect spot for nature lovers and adventurers to discover the wild in Goa.

Location: Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Canacona Taluka, Khotigao, Goa 403702

Timings: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM

The Best time to visit: October to March

Celebrated for its massive collection of enigmatic underwater creatures that include crocodiles, the Cubarjua Canal is surrounded by dense tropics and water bodies which is also one of the major reasons why the canal resides amongst the most hidden places in North Goa is because of the route that visitors need to take to reach the place.

Travelers have to take a ferry ride from Cortalim jetty and reach the Cumbarjua canal via the Zuari river which is in fact quite challenging. Throughout your ride, you will be able to glee upon the grand exhibit on mangroves, crocodile eggs, and even a variety of birds in the sky. Although it can take up to 3 hours to discover the place in its entirety, every minute spent here is absolutely magical and wild.

Location: Cumbarjua canal, North Goa, Goa

Timings: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM

The Best time to visit: June to November.

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Isolated and adrift, Kakolem Beach is the true definition of dwelling in the company of the most hidden places in Goa. Also known as Tiger Beach, it is said that the place serves as a camouflaged hunting ground for wild tigers which are a common phenomenon here.

However lonesome, the Kakolem beach delivers a beguiling beauty exhibited through its dazzling ocean, sinking sand and the nature that surrounds it. Few who visit here, come to relish the calm, peaceful and soothing atmosphere of the place. A must-visit location, Kakolem Beach should be in your next Goa itinerary. Don’t forget to carry heaps of snacks, water, and booze and upon your visit, find the perfect spot for you at the shore and enjoy a surreal experience.

Location: Kakolem Beach, Goa

Timings: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

The Best time to visit: January to June

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A man-made reservoir, Bubbling Lake is found in an estranged village named Netravalli. Not exactly a lake, the place is more of a pond with carefully architectured steps using granite rocks that lead down towards the water. Sitting as an enchanting exhibit yet included in hidden places in Goa, the Bubbling lake gets its name from the mysterious bubbles that rise to the surface of the water, continuously.

This is a captivating experience, unlike any other attraction in the city which makes the place a must-visit. Apart from the adults, the mere sight of watching the creation of these bubbles underwater is relished by the little ones too. They really enjoy when the bubbles surface and flow through the top of the water surface until they dramatically burst.

Location: The Bubbling Lake Netravali, Vichundrem, Goa 403704

Timings: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

The Best time to visit: October to March

While monsoon could raise a lot of red flags  for many explorers who plan on visiting Goa, Chorla Ghats, on the other hand, provides the perfect reason for a trip to Goa in the rain. The Chorla Ghats are found in the heart of the Goa-Karnataka border. With encapsulating waterfalls and serene display of a variety of flora, the Chorla Ghats are visited by a number of thrill-seekers.

For many who have been able to discover the place, the ghats also serve as the perfect destination for a road trip. With activities like treks, taking a dip in the river water and picnics, you are guaranteed a fantastic time here. All you have to do is carry enough food, lots of water and your best friends.

Location: Chorla Ghats, State Highway 4, Belgaum, Maharashtra 403505

Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

The Best time to visit: June and September

Cascading from an astonishing height of more than 50 meters above the ground, the Arvalem Falls is a scenic destination, adored by people who visit. A place to relax, rejoice and unfold in the arms of nature, the fall will bedazzle you right after the monsoon. The gushing sound of water streaming through the rocky setting makes for an alluring spot for many adventurers.

Picnics or just a rendezvous in the tropics, there is much to do at the Arvalem Falls. Away in the density of the woodland, the fall is one of the most hidden places in North Goa, rarely explored by many tourists. In other words, for everyone looking to unfold new expeditions, this is the place to be.

Location: Harvalem Falls, Rudreshwar Colony, Sanquelim, Goa 403505

Timings: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

The Best time to visit: September - January

 Away from the crowd, into the wilderness, Torda lake illustrates a quiet and benign environment appreciated by the tourists who visit. One of the most secret places in Goa, the lake is perfect to enjoy a soothing time in the hush waters of the river. Apart from activities like fishing, visitors can also admire a boat ride which the locals will most happily provide.

Moreover, the best way to reach the place is via the roads that encapsulate a lush collection of flora throughout. In short, with an alluring ride, a gorgeous destination and a peaceful time amidst nature, the lake counts for a perfect spot for a fun weekend trip.

Location: Torda lake, Porvorim, North Goa, Goa

Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Best time to visit: June - September

 Located right near the opening of the Tiracol river, the Tiracol Fort is an ancient establishment of great heritage for the state of Goa. The fort's name is derived from the local Marathi language Tiracol meaning a "steep river bank" and it sure is one. To reach the fort one has to put in a lot of hustle. You will be required to take a ferry and travel a great distance of up to 43 km from the capital city through the twisty rivers.

This is also one of the primary reasons why the place is vastly unexplored and still remains among the more secret places in Goa for many travelers. In the past, the fort has assisted as a great defense for the Portuguese and was closely associated with the freedom fights that occurred in the state.

Location: Fort Tiracol, Goa, India

Timings: 24 hours

Best time to visit: October to March

 A paradise for every nature enthusiast and bird watcher, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is the road less taken by many who visit the party capital of the country. Away from the crowd, nested in the lushness of the tropics, the sanctuary is found near the beautiful Mandoli river.

Apart from a dense collection of mangroves established in a rich 420 acre of land, the place is home to a blend of regional and migrating ariel creatures like Kingfishers, White Egrets, Kites, Woodpeckers among others. Looking down on the ground, species including Jackals, Python, MudSkippers and more are found in abundance here. All in all, open yet amongst the most hidden places in South Goa, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is an adventure delight.

Location: Dr. Slim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Dr. Slim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Best time to visit: October - January

Location: Casa Severina, Calangute beach

Timings: Open 24 hours

Best time to visit: Between October - January

 Found in the northernmost regions of Goa is a hidden stretch of sandy shore called the Querim (Keri) beach. A calm beach, less visited by tourists, the place is absolutely perfect for a getaway destination with family and friends.

With less rocky areas and a surplus of sand, Querim is one of the longest stretches of waterfront in Goa. Visit here to relish an alluring sunset and indulge in a beachside picnic with your loved ones. Approximately 50 km from the capital city, Querim beach also caters to many who love long rides.

Location: Querim Beach, Goa 403519

Timings: 24 hours

Best time to visit: March - June

Among the top hidden places in South Goa, the mysterious Rivona Cave is established in a small village named Rivona. Carrying a rich historical narrative, it is said that the cave was brought up by the Buddhist Monks in the 6th century. The cave encapsulates a number of carvings depicting the cultural significance that still resonates in the state.

The Rivona cave also has a statue of the Hindu God Hanuman at the entrance. This has made the place a common attraction among devotees who visit here to pray and admire the ambiance of the place. So, if you are a nature enthusiast or someone who has a knack for exploring ancient establishments, Rivona Cave is the right place to visit.

Location: Rivona Cave, Rivona, Goa 403705

Timings: 24 hours.

Best time to visit: September - June

An ancient architecture overlooking the dazzling Sinquerim beach, the Sinquerim Fort is a mesmerizing destination hidden away in the wilderness of Goa. Built in the year 1612, the fort was used as an anchor spot for many trade ships that used to visit the state in the 16th century.

However, it is believed that the fort was developed as an armor against the attacks of Marathas and the Dutch. The place is an excellent locale for visitors to admire the beautiful and scenic view from above. Down at the beach, various water activities including jet skiing and surfing can also be enjoyed.

Location: Sinquerim Fort, Candolim, Goa

Timings: 24 Hours

Best time to visit: January - June

A historical monument, catering highly to the rich tradition and ancient culture of the region, Arvalem Caves are celebrated among the Goan locals. The caves portray an array of carvings and sculptures from various ancient time frames. Experts suggest that these carvings belong to either the Buddhist or the Brahim ancestries.

Many stories surround the caves narrating that they served as a shelter to the legendary Pandavas from Mahabharata. Others describe the cave to be carved out of a single rock by the Buddhist Monks. All boils down to the enchanting beauty and mystery the caves surround that can serve as the perfect appetizer to everyone with a thrilling gut.

Location: Arvalem Caves, Rudreshwar Colony, Sanquelim, Goa 403505

Timings: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Best time to visit: September - June

Overshadowed by the engaging Baina beach, the Pequeno (Bat) island is admired most prominently for adventures like snorkeling and cherishing a view of  various species of fish swim through the clear waters. A minor land of lush tropics and rocky terrain, the island is visited by many adventurous people.

Encapsulated in a number of dazzling coral reefs, sea creatures and more, the place is a must-visit for someone who would live to take some time off from the revelries in the state to relish a calm and quiet time with family and friends. Location: Pequeno, Goa, India.

Timings: 24 Hours

Best time to visit: September - June