Konkan Kashi

One sunny day, my parents posed the inevitable question that every child eagerly awaits – where would I like to go for our summer vacation? Presented with the power to choose, I offered them three enticing options: the bustling city of Delhi, the culturally rich state of Rajasthan, or the idyllic coastal haven known as Konkan Kashi, more commonly recognized as Goa. After weighing the pros and cons, my parents settled on Goa as our ultimate destination. The decision was influenced by the scorching heat of the other places and the considerable duration required for a road trip, which was approximately 10 days. The mere thought of heading to Goa filled me with boundless excitement as we embarked on the journey to this vibrant and captivating destination.

Certainly, the name “Konkan Kashi” for Goa may raise a few eyebrows, but it carries a historical significance. Goa was once referred to as the “Kashi of Konkan” or the “Benaras of the Konkan.” Throughout ancient times, Goa served as a hub for Vedic and Sanskrit learning, establishing itself as a center for Hindu pilgrimage. Our journey to this culturally rich destination commenced on the 21st of May 2022 at the early hour of 4:00 am, with Panaji as our targeted destination.

Choosing the Chitradurga route from Bangalore, we embarked on an adventure filled with diverse landscapes. A pit stop at the Chithradurga toll gate not only provided a brief respite but also treated us to the delightful flavors of Tatte Idly with Sambar from a roadside food cart. Energized and satisfied, we resumed our journey, crossing state borders and relishing a hearty lunch along the way.

Our arrival at Panaji, also known as Panjim, unfolded a picturesque scene. Nestled on the banks of the Mandovi River, Panaji boasts cobblestone streets adorned with vibrant villas harking back to the Portuguese colonial era. Exhausted from the journey, we checked into our hotel for some much-needed rest. In the evening, we embarked on a mesmerizing cruise on the Mandovi River, where the sight of floating Cassiones took my breath away. The cruise showcased lively Konkani folk dances and introduced us to the flavors of Goan cuisine. Satiated with fun and cultural richness, we returned to the hotel for a peaceful night’s sleep, eagerly anticipating more adventures in the days to come. The following morning brought a new chapter of exploration as we set our course for North Goa. En route, we encountered enchanting sights, including Dona Paula, Bom Infant Jesus church, the majestic Cathedral church, the Goa Museum, and the historic Reis Magos fort. The captivating scene of fishermen casting their nets into the sea, weaving a dance with the waves, was a spectacle I witnessed for the first time.

A stopover on our way to Reis Magos allowed us to relish a delicious lunch, fueling our energy for further exploration. The visit to the Reis Magos fort was not just a historical immersion but also a visual treat, offering panoramic views of the surroundings. With the fort explored, our next destination was the eagerly awaited beach resort in Calangute.

Upon reaching the hotel, there was no time to waste as we immediately headed to the beach. Calangute welcomed us with open arms, and we indulged in a myriad of activities. From playing in the refreshing waters and building intricate sand castles to running along the shoreline and taking a refreshing swim, every moment was soaked in joy. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we continued our revelry, soaking in the lively atmosphere of Calangute Beach, adorned with music and vibrant lights.

The next day unfolded with a sense of freedom as we rented a scooter to explore the nooks and crannies of North Goa. Baga Beach and Anjuna Beach were on our list, each offering a unique charm. Refueling our energy, we dined at Brito’s 1956 restaurant at Baga Beach, savoring a lip-smacking Goan Seafood thali. The culinary journey continued with a visit to Souza Lobo, a renowned restaurant since 1932, where we delighted in the mouthwatering Smoked Kingfish. In the evening, the vibrant beach market beckoned, and we seized the opportunity to collect an assortment of gifts for our friends and family, each purchase echoing the spirit and culture of this beautiful coastal haven.

On the 24th of May, a new day beckoned, and we set our sights on exploring the charms of South Goa. Along the way, we took in the historical grandeur of Aguda Fort and the serene ambiance of Sri Mangesh temple, each stop contributing to the cultural tapestry of our journey. Upon reaching our destination in South Goa, we settled into the hotel and indulged in a leisurely lunch to recharge for the adventures ahead.

The evening unfolded with a refreshing and relaxing dip in the hotel’s swimming pool, providing a perfect respite from our explorations. As the sun began its descent, we ventured to Banaulim Beach, just a stone’s throw away from our accommodation, for a delightful dinner experience by the shore.

The following morning embraced a different rhythm as we opted for a cycling excursion, immersing ourselves in the scenic surroundings. Following a hearty breakfast, we embarked on a beach-hopping expedition in South Goa. Marjoda and Colava beaches unfolded their unique beauty, each leaving an imprint on our memories. Returning to the hotel, we engaged in a friendly game of foosball, adding a touch of competition to our leisure time.

Majorda Beach, with its pristine allure, captured our attention, and we reveled in the beauty of this coastal gem. After some lively playtime, we sat down for a satisfying lunch and took a well-deserved rest. The evening drew us back to the beach, where we spent quality time before enjoying a beachside dinner, savoring the flavors of Goa while the waves serenaded us in the background.

Indeed, the duality of North Goa and South Goa showcases the diverse beauty that Goa has to offer. The vibrant energy of North Goa, with its lively nightlife and bustling shopping scenes, stands in stark contrast to the serene ambiance of South Goa, where peaceful beaches and scenic drives provide a perfect retreat for some personal “ME time.”

As the sun painted the sky with hues of sunrise, we savored our breakfast, knowing that our time in Goa was coming to an end. The journey back to Bangalore began, leaving behind the coastal paradise that had woven its magic around us. Being a fervent beach lover, Goa has etched its place deep in my heart, emerging as one of my favorite destinations.

Reflecting on the trip, I realized that the dreams I had while planning for the Goa expedition had been wonderfully accomplished. The entire journey was marked by greatness, and the experiences gathered along the way were nothing short of wonderful. The allure of Goa, with its captivating landscapes and vibrant culture, has left an indelible mark, and I can’t help but look forward to the prospect of returning, perhaps with friends, to create new memories and relish the unique charm that makes Goa truly special.