OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

1. Surfing

prac_info Surf Wala: www.surfwala.com • Banana Surf School: www.goasurf.com

Goa’s beaches are mostly popular for surfing, although the sea here is also ideal for other watersports. There are a number of surfing schools, such as Vaayu Waterman’s Village, Banana Surf School and Surf Wala, which offer instruction for both beginners and experienced surfers.

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Windsurfing, a popular beach activity

2. Scuba Diving and Snorkelling

prac_info Goa Diving: www.goadiving.com • Dive Goa: 0932 503 0110 • Goa Aquatics: www.goaaquatics.com

While Goa’s reefs may not be the best, there are still some great sites for diving and snorkelling such as Shelter Cove, Bounty Bay and Suzy’s Wreck. Some of the main operators offer PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) certification.

3. Rafting

prac_info Goa Rafting: 8805 727 230; www.goarafting.com

White-water rafting on the Mhadei River is a popular activity from June to September. Goa Rafting organizes trips in season at 9:30am and 2:30pm on Grade 2 and 3 (fairly easy) rapids.

4. Kayaking

prac_info Goa Kayaking: www.goakayaking.com

Goa Kayaking offers kayaking excursions along the coast, rivers and backwaters of Goa throughout the year. Palolem’s bay or Goa’s several estuaries are considered best for kayaking.

5. Nature Walks

prac_info Goa Birding: 0855 408 0320 • Goa Nature Trails: 0703 097 3005

Goa offers plenty of nature excursions, birdwatching tours and camping expeditions from October to April. Some of the top birdwatching spots include Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.

6. Kitesurfing

prac_info Kitesurfing Goa: Montego Bay Resort, Morjim Beach; 0750 713 0099 www.kitesurfinggoa.com

An offshoot of windsurfing, kitesurfing is a dynamic form of wave-riding. Boards are short and the rider holds handles attached to cables and a kite. From January to April, Morjim Beach is a major hub for this sport.

7. Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)

prac_info Atlantis Watersports: www.atlantiswatersports.com

This sport has gained plenty of popularity over the years, with boards tuition and guided paddles offered by schools. The ideal months for SUP is from October to May.

8. Parasailing

prac_info Explore Watersports® Goa: 0830 743 0073

Anjuna, Baga, Calangute, Vagator and Candolim beaches are great for parasailing. Participants sit in a sling seat attached to a specially designed parachute, which is hoisted skyward by a boat for fantastic views and an exhilarating ride. October to May is the best time for parasailing.

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Parasailing at Candolim Beach

9. ATV Rides

prac_info ATV Adventures Goa: 0982 306 8599

All-terrain vehicles are an exciting way to explore the muddy trails and off-the-beaten path sights. Wear sports shoes or closed-toe shoes.

10. Hiking

prac_info Goa Jungle Adventure: www.goajungle.com

Several thrilling hiking options are available for adventurers to explore Goa’s captivating landscapes. Some of the best trails are at Chorla Ghat, Netravali and Dudhsagar Falls. Hiking is not advisable during the monsoons.

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Hikers on a scenic trail in Netravali

TOP 10 SPECIAL INTEREST ACTIVITIES

1. Go-Karting

The tracks in Nuvem village and Arpora are the best. Check www.gokartinggoa.com for more information.

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Go-Karting on a track in Goa

2. Soccer

Some of the Indian Super League matches (from November to March), are played at Fatorda Stadium. Goa’s main professional football team is FC Goa.

3. Skateboarding

Panaji’s Youth Hostel, ALIS Bowl in Morjim and Cirrus in Anjuna are popular skateboarding spots.

4. Horseback Riding

Majorda Beach is the only place where visitors can enjoy horseback riding.

5. Fishing

There are a number of boats that will take visitors out fishing for the day. Check www.johnboattours.com for fishing trips.

6. Eco Tours

For overnight camping tours at a wildlife sanctuary, check www.canopygoa.com and www.goaecotourism.com.

7. Diving

Bogmalo’s diving schools offer PADI- approved open water courses and guided dives to shipwreck sites. Dive season runs from late October to April.

8. Boat Trips

Cruises of every sort are popular on the Mandovi, but the finest are the 1- or 2-hour sunset cruises.

9. Dolphin Spotting

Palolem, Morjim or Sinquerim are the best beaches to catch a glimpse of the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin.

10. Bicycle Tours

Avid cyclists can opt for an interesting bicycle tour to explore Old Goa, Chorão and Divar Islands.

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