Top 10 things to do in Goa – Pure unadulterated pleasure

Whether you are honeymooning romantics, socialites seeking get-a-ways or explorers in quest of thrill; Goa which being known as the 'Pearl of the East' is an obvious choice. Goa's Gothicism embedded in the flaking forts, beaches canopied by coconut groves, fizzy folk music that rock the ferries in the moonlight etc, justify Goa's inclusion as an easy choice to any tourist's itinerary.

Breath-taking lush green rice fields mingled with shady mango, banyan and peepul trees are ideal to enjoy the serenity and solitude that nature has to offer. Walk down empty ramparts that echo Portuguese influence, or occupy silent chambers still adorned with elegant furniture or long galleries lit with imperial treasures from royalty to experience an ambience you will never forget.

Goa offers a wide variety of food and drinks that can be enjoyed at chic restaurants which offer guests the opportunity to enjoy traditional Indian music that add more flavour to the delicious curries and refreshing sherbets, some of the local delicacies. The sandy beaches of Goa are full of street food vendors, upscale bars and fine dining option to choose from.

In addition to being abundantly blessed by nature, Christianity has contributed generously to the growth of Goa's beauty. The strong Roman Catholic community, influenced by the onetime Portuguese rulers built several magnificent churches. The religious places such as Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Church of St. Augustine Ruins, Chapel of St. Catherine-all of which are in Old Goa are still visited with reverence and hopefulness by thousands of pilgrims every year.

Another interesting thing you must do during your time in Goa is a trek to the mighty Dudhsagar waterfall. The waterfall cascades from nearly 1017 feet above and is located at the centre of the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. Although the Dudhsagar trek inside the park is closed to the public you can still reach the waterfalls by trekking through a trail.

Goa, the smallest Indian state offers endless stretches of golden beaches as an uncontested haven for travellers seeking nature, culture and adventure. As part of the '70s, hippies trail hotels in Goa the likes of Alila Diwa Goa Goa offers a fusion of Indian and Portuguese hospitality services such as spas and experiential dining.

The flea markets of Goa started when hippies touring India started selling used Levi's and handmade jewellery to fund their stay. Today you'll find a large selection of wares, from authentic Indian bedspreads to ceramics and locally grown spices, and everything else. Just remember, bargain as much as possible!

Goa is also the hub for exotic spices. A visit to a spice plantation is sure to give insight into Indian kitchens and the ingredients they use to create such flavourful food. Don't forget to ask for the recipes for special concoctions and antidotes to try your recipes back home.

The Bohemian soul of Goa is served as healthy eats. You cannot resist the aromatic street-food with Portuguese-Goan flavours. Pork Vindalho (originated from a Portuguese sailor's dish) made with pork, garlic and wine; which the Goan substitute with palm vinegar for red wine chilli peppers and spices. Prawn balchão; is another spicy pickle of caramelised onions and coconut toddy vinegar.

The monsoon season has been one of Goa's secrets when visitors were believed to dwindle. But latest reports reveal that the monsoon season has recorded a 60 per cent rise in tourist visits. Goa in monsoon seems to be the next big thing as the visitors relish the weather as they alternate between cleansing showers and dramatic sunlight. The season offers scenic landscapes and irresistible adventure activities like white water rafting and trekking.