Visiting Goa - Famed beaches of North Goa

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Beaches of North Goa

Water sports being undertaken at Calangute beach in North Goa

             The last day of our trip in Goa was dedicated to visiting the destinations situated in North Goa, where we had been putting up in the Trivago associate serviced apartments.  As the tour had been chalked out by me independently and we were not required to follow the schedule of any tour operator, we started our day in a leisurely fashion by getting up a bit late and had B’fast at around 9.30 A.M instead of rushing through it like other days.  We started the day with the tour of the famed Fort Auguda and by the time we reached there, the sun was already up and spitting fire. 

Fort Aguada, Goa

View of lighthouse at Fort Aguda

Fort Aguada is a perfect example of the Portuguese architecture that was built in the 17th century.    It was actually a lighthouse and fort thrown in one, perched atop a hillock on the Sinquerim Beach, about 18 km from Panjim.   Built in 1612 as a form of protection from the Dutch and Marathas, it was the most prized and crucial fort for the Portuguese and covers the entire peninsula at the southwestern tip of Bardez.  The view from the fort is breath taking as it overlooks the confluence of Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea.   The fort is so named after the Portuguese Word for water i.e. 'Agua' and used to be a replenishing source of fresh water for sailors.

The Fort Aguada has also been used as Aguada jail, which is now closed for Public viewing.  Now a days the Fort is seen bursting with tourist activities and happy chatter & patter of people moving around.  The Aguada Fort also has a splendid four-storeyed light house.  Built in 1864 it is the oldest lighthouse of Asia.  A bell inside the lighthouse later became a part of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church in Panaji.

A short video of Fort Auguda

            Having visited the Fort and laundered around it for some time, we then headed back to visit the famed beaches of North Goa and the details are as follows as per the chronological order of our visit –

Candolim Beach

The Candolim beach

Candolim Beach is one of most frequented and popular beaches of North Goa. Because of its proximity to the famed Calangute beach, it too attracts tourists, but is comparatively less crowded.  The beach starts almost at the footsteps of the Fort Aguada, built by the Portuguese in 1612.  Comparing to its surrounding beaches, Candolim is comparatively quite, this is due to the fact that there are no resorts built in and around the beach. For the moment the village remains little more than a ribbon of development of few small hotels and cafes only.

A short view of Candolim beach

Calangute Beach

Water sports at Calangute beach

As most of distances of Beaches are available from the capital Panjim, I am also furnishing the information accordingly.  Situated 15 km from the Panjim, Calangute Beach is the longest beach in North Goa, stretching from Candolim to Baga, a huge seven kilometres sweep of sand. Due to its sheer size and popularity, it is a hub for tourists and backpackers from all over the world and is also is called the ‘Queen of Beaches’.  As the sea waves mingle with sands of the beach, the Calangute Beach comes alive in all its beauty. You can also sample the sumptuous culinary fare here at Souza Lobo's, Oriental, Electric Cats or the Tibetan kitchen, all of which can offer a unique taste palette. Embark on a number of water sports at the beach or walk into a cafe and read, there is no shortage of options when it comes to Calangute Beach.  The Calangute Beach is also known for its water sports activities like parasailing, water surfing, banana ride and jet-skiing.

A short video of Calangute beach

Anjuna Beach, Goa

A view of the famed Anjuna beach

The Anjuna Beach is located at a distance of 21 km from Panjim, it is among the most popular beaches in North Goa. A hippie paradise of sorts it is characterized by its rocky outcrops. A small makeshift shopping complex has come up in its vicinity and one can also sample some delicious culinary goodness at Burger Factory, Baba Au Rhums, or Basilico.  Known as the jewel of Ozran, it quickly became a favorite haunt for the hippies in the swinging 60s and still retains the some old days’ vibe to this present day.  However, one should be extremely careful during swimming here as the beach is mostly filled with rocky shores.

A short video of  Anjuna beach

Vagator Beach, Goa

A view of the Vagator beach

Rocky cliffs at Vagator beach

The Vagator beach is 21 kilometres from Panaji and is characterized by a combination of its soft white sands and imposing but beautiful rocky cliffs. The beach is divided into two major parts, namely Little Vagator, also known as Ozran Beach, and the Big Vagator. While the sweeping view of the sea from the Vagator cliff is said to be stunning, but tourists also flock to Vagator for its myriad dining options and an overall upbeat vibe at the beach shacks.  One of the most famous places to be was, of course, Thalassa - a quaint and artistic Greek themed beach restaurant with beach seating and stunning gourmet adventures, which has now shifted a bit away from the beach but still retains its sea side experience. Moreover, there are various other gourmet places serving up some quality local and international food such as Villa Blanche Bistro, Antares Beach Restaurant, and Fusion Restaurant.

A short video of Vagator beach

Enjoying lunch at the 'Thalassa' restaurant

            Having visited these four destinations, it was almost lunchtime and as per my Son’s desire, we decided to visit the famed Greek restaurant being run in the region called the ‘Thalassa’, provided we got a place to sit, since we did not have a reservation.  However, being a working day and off-season and almost past lunch hour, we could get a reservation for four and enjoyed some hearty Greek cuisine.  We had also released the driver to have his lunch and after about an hour or so we resumed our journey further to visit the remaining beaches of North Goa.

Morjim Beach, Goa

View of Morjim beach

"Home of the Olive Ridley Turtles",  the Morjim Beach is undoubtedly one of the most tranquil beaches of North Goa and is located around 12 km away from Morjim through the Duler-Marna-Siolim Road. Located a little south of Aswem beach, it serves as a nesting habitat for Olive Ridley Turtles. This earns Morjim Beach another moniker, namely Turtle Beach. The nesting season for the Olive Ridley Turtles usually begins in September, although sometimes it can be as late as January, and lasts until March.  Thus, during this particular time of the year, Morjim is a very popular amongst the tourists visiting Goa, who wish to see the nesting site of the famed turtles.  This protected nature of Morjim Beach is one of primary factors responsible for its untouched beauty. Vast vistas of sand stretch endlessly and the whole beachfront is pristine and beautiful.  One can easily go for a quick dip in the sea, experience a day by the beach sipping chilled beer, and even indulge in some shopping on the beach street. Owing to the shallow depth, kite surfing makes for an exciting activity at the Morjim Beach.

A short video of Morjim beach

Ashwem Beach, Goa Overview

A view of the Ashwem beach

Located north of the famous Morjim beach after the Chapoa River, the lovely Ashwem beach still retains the original charm of Goa.  It is the most distant beach from Panjim and is situated at a distance of more than 30 kilometres from Panjim. A hidden gem with one of the most stunning sceneries, Ashwem beach differs from the other beaches of North Goa because of its remote location. Being less crowded from the other beaches of North Goa, the long sandy shores of the Ashwem beach starts from the bank of the Chapora River to the south stretches all the way to Ashwem that forms the northern tip.   It's long shoreline and calm waves attract tourists from all over the country.  The beach offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty and a fantabulous location to stay, dine and party. The long stretch is lined by beautiful palm and coconut trees that leave you awestruck.  It is also home now to many of the western back packers and tourists alike, as it is not bombarded by regular visitors.  As we too had made it a point to visit the destination, despite having to pay a higher hiring charges, just to visit this destination. 

A short video of Ashwem beach

            As it was the last destination to be visited by us for the day, we leisured around the beach side in the shacks for some time and savoured some cold drinks and as we had to leave Goa the next day, we headed back to our apartment as the sun was about to set and thus, concluded our Goa visit.

Note – I have not included the description of Baga beach, which too in located in North Goa, as I have already covered in the first blog of the present series.

Visiting Goa - The Grande Island trip

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The Grande Island trip

The Coco Beach - where from the Grande Island trip commences

A video the start of the journey for Grand Island trip

        After having enjoyed the trip to Dudhsagar falls, we were back to our service apartment known as Treebo Zeebo in Arpora by late evening.  Being dead tired from the trek and the ride, as described in my earlier blog, we decided to have dinner at the complex itself.  Although the apartment has a tie up with some local restaurant, who provides for food on order, we decided to try the local in house cook known as Anna.  We decided the dinner menu based on local Goanese cuisine and the cook went to the market to personally purchase the ingredients required.  My Son who does not partake either fish or Sea food decided to try out the chicken preparation from the small road side eatery run by a lady just across the road.  To say the least, we were all just swept of our feet’s, by the sheer taste and freshness of the food served and decided to have dinner at the complex itself for the remaining days of our stay.  After enjoying the hearty dinner, we had a great night’s sleep, as the Grande Island trip was scheduled for the next day, was to commence at late morning hours.  The next day, after having had the complimentary B’fast that was included in our package at the apartment complex, we started for the Grande Island trip at around 9.00 A.M, by the Tempo traveller that picked us up as the first guests and later on the others and took us to the jetty at Coco Beach, wherefrom all the boats ferrying passengers for Grande Island tour set sail.

The small shack just across the apartment in Arpora run by local lady

A plethora of birds near Coco beach

The inlet from Sea that leads to Coco Beach

A Lesser fish Eagle at Coco Beach

A copy of the pamphlet showing various trips organized in Goa

Copy of hind side of the Pamphlet depicting 

            Grande popularly known as the Grande Island or Bat Island is one of the most sought after tour destination in Goa that has been especially designed keeping in view the likes and dislikes of the younger generation. The only way to reach Ilha Grande is by traversing the Sea on a sailing boat. The package tour to the Island usually includes activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing and a scrumptious lunch at the Monkey Beach, where the aroma of the barbeque fish is mouth-watering.   After the meal, one can also enjoy swimming in the sea.  However, the tour no longer ferries passengers to the Grande Island or Ilha Grande, as the same has been taken over by the Indian Navy, which has a base there, but a few nautical miles away from it.  There are a plethora of tour operators offering this package and the cost varies based on the facilities being offered by the tour operators and I am enclosing one of the pamphlets that are circulated to visitors.

The lighthouse atop Fort Auguda as seen from boat

The merchant's villa as seen from the boat

The panoramic view of Fort Auguda with the jail as seen from the boat

Another group of tourists on a trip

A Sea Gull in flight

The mechanized boat leaves a trail in the sea water

After a long wait at the Coco Beach, the boat ride commenced at around 11.00 A.M and after about 15 minutes of ride, the crew served some patties, but as we had already had our B’fast in Hotel itself, we did not partake the same.  Thereafter, cold drinks were served and also beer to all desirous of having the same, actually the number of persons having beer outnumbered the cold drink fellas by one is to ten ratio.  We spotted many of Sea Gulls following the boat and we quickly found that they were in look out for some quick snacks and the boatmen were throwing the patty pieces, which these birds were eagerly snatching either in air or from the Sea.  The other interesting part about this trip is that one gets a different perspective all together of various landmarks of Goa, from the Sea i.e. Aguada fort, merchant’s bungalow, central jail and a few beaches and big ships stationed or moving in the mid sea.

A large Ocean liner docked

View of Monkey Beach from the boat

Just engrossed in the boat ride

Snorkeling in the sea

Other tour groups enjoying the activities

A fast Navy boat traverses across the Grande Island periphery

Video of snorkeling during the trip - shot by Mr.Deepak (tour operator)

Video of Scuba diving shot by professional divers during the trip

Having travelled for a good hour or so in the Sea, we first reached the Monkey Island, where a few of the crew members de-boarded alongwith the tents and cooking utensils etc. to arrange for the lunch.  Also there being a small toilet complex, the passengers were also allowed to disembark and use the utilities.  After a break of about 15 minutes, we again boarded the boat and headed towards the Bat Island, where the other activities like swimming in the Arabian Sea, fishing, Snorkelling, scuba diving etc. takes place and there were many boats anchored around and tourists therein too were enjoying the activities.  As the unfettered supply of Beer had started taking its toll on many of the youngsters and we had a verbal spat with a group of Engineering students who had come in from Vellore Institute of Technology. This spat occurred, as the camera and other equipment that were kept on the boat got drenched in sea water, as these boys started jumping into the Sea from the roof of the boat and the splashed Sea water, which almost drenched our equipment.  As we were more on reserved side viz a viz a Tamilian family that was enjoying the birthday of one of their family members and guzzling beer in barrels and also other alcoholic hard drinks, were not within their selves but at a boisterous high, we were quietly branded by them as the Angry Bird family.  After about two hours fun and frolic, wherein I too got the Scuba diving and Snorkelling videos shot by the crew members, we headed back to the Monkey Island.  By the time we reached Monkey Island, the tide had started surging and the crew was finding it difficult to put the anchor and finally after much effort they could do it and then we had to wade through waist high water to the island for having lunch.  The lunch definitely was scrumptious with non-vegetarian Goanese cuisine being the main course.  Having had lunch and others enjoying a few more rounds of beer alongwith with hard alcoholic drinks, especially the family described hereinabove, the return journey commenced and my description of these persons can be gauged from the video enclosed.

As the tide had begun rising - the crew found it difficult to anchor the boat at Monkey beach

Having lunch at the Monkey beach

The Grande Island trip is designed basically for the youngsters or persons with happy go lucky attitude, but it is worth every penny spent and the pictorial depiction and videos would do more justice to the description of the trip viz a viz the written description of the same.  However, the only downside of the trip is that they offer Dolphin viewing, but that rarely happens, as it only by chance that Dolphins can be spotted and not always.

Video of the return journey - check out details as indicated in the blog

Goa - Visiting Dudhsagar falls and spice garden

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Visiting Dudhsagar falls and spice garden

The panoramic view of the famed Dudhsagar falls

Having enjoyed the river cruise the previous evening, we had planned to visit the famed Dudhsagar falls the next day.  We had booked a package for visiting Dudhsagar falls alongwith spice garden visit as an add on and the tour operator had charged us @ Rs.1800/- per person inclusive of all charges, except for breakfast/cold drinks/water and camera charges etc. payable at the National Park entry.  The Tempo Traveler arrived right at 6.30 A.M in the morning and we were the first passengers to board.  However, a small fiasco occurred before we could board, as according to the rules of the service apartment, the gates were to be opened for entry at 7.00 A.M and the Gurkha guard stationed at the gate refused to even let us out and we had to call the Manager to sort out the issue, that delayed our departure by a good 10 odd minutes.  Since we were staying in North Goa and in Arpora locality, the total distance till Dudhsagar falls was about 81 Kms., as it is about 65 Kms. from Panjim.  The journey was smooth and uneventful, as the air conditioner was working well in the early morning hours, we did not feel the stinginess in the air because of the high humidity, till we got down at Kulem to start the jeep ride inside the Mollem National Park.  A small eating joint turned out to be one of the many such options available at Kullem to have B’fast and to use the loo.  We had some idlis (steam baked rice pudding), as it seemed to be the safest bet in the circumstances and some cold drinks to drown the same.  Thereafter, we were segregated in batches to eight persons and allocated jeeps by the tour manager and thus, started our journey towards Dudhsagar falls through the National Park.

The journey inside Mollem National park area begins

Entry gate of Mollem National Park

The trek inside the Mollem National Park

After a kilometre and a half of well metalled road, the road deteriorated into a dirt track and sitting on the back side of the Jeep was an experience in itself, as it stretched all my muscles in my body, in order maintain my equilibrium in the Jeep.  The distance from Kulem to Dudhsagar is about 11 Kms., of which the Jeep ride comprises of about 9 Kms. and trek of about 2 Kms. to reach the base of the Dudhsagar falls.  The 9 Kms. Jeep ride takes a good 45 minutes to an hour and is one hell of an experience, especially if you are seated in the boot of the Jeep.  Yet I was so much engrossed in my intent to visit this famed destination that this horrendous jeep ride could not deter my determination a wee bit.  I was fascinated by the various photographs of this famed water fall available in the internet and despite the fact that I was not visiting it during monsoons, yet I was yearning to see it with my own eyes, the splendour of this famed waterfall.

A short video of ride inside the Mollem National Park

The famed Dudhsagar waterfalls, is amongst the 100 highest waterfalls in the world. The waterfall has a height of about 310 metres and an average width of about 30 metres during monsoons. The falls assume spectacular proportions during the said rainy season, when it is fed abundantly by the clouds and the water cascades down in a silver avalanche, from the Mondovi River basin and is a awe inspiring beauty of the Western Ghats.  This cascade of water is at a junction close to Goa-Karnataka border and visitors can access the falls from both side.  However, one is not allowed to visit the base of the falls, where we were headed for, during the monsoon season due to the reason that there is flooding in the region and the dirt road inside the National Park also becomes inaccessible.

Close up of the top portion of the Dudhsagar falls

A close up shot of the middle part of the Dudhsagar falls

A close up shot of the base of the Dudhsagar falls

Like all naturally beautiful destinations in India, there are some legends or the other fascinating folklores associated with such destinations.  Likewise the famed Dudhsagar falls is also associated with a folklore that goes as that there lived a princess on the edge of the woods whose beauty was famed far and wide.  It is said that she was so beautiful that even the birds sang her praise and the sun blushed and hid behind the clouds on her approach. The Princess followed a daily morning ritual of taking a bath in a serene and lovely pool in the woods, and after her bath, she would partake a jug full of sweetened milk from a golden jug.  One day, it so transpired that she spotted a handsome prince watching her from behind some trees. Embarrassed at the invasion of her privacy and feeling vulnerable in her nudity, the Princess immediately flung the milk from the golden jug, in front of her, creating a sheet of flowing milk that acted as a curtain, protecting her from the gaze of the Prince. Legend has it that the sheet of milk, which cascades down the slopes of the mountain to this day in the form of the gushing, milk like waters of the Dudhsagar falls. Dudhsagar in Hindi literally means “Ocean of milk”.

A short video of the Dudhsagar falls

After the torturous 50 minutes of Jeep ride inside the Mollem National Park, as the road meandered through the forest and across steams overflowing across the roads, we finally reached the point from where the trek to the famed waterfall commences.  By this time it was about 10.00 A.M in the morning, but the humidity and heat was exhausting, so we commenced on our journey with water bottles, cameras and the life jacket towed onto us, as the last article is not of choice but compulsion to carry as per the rules of visit to the falls.  At this start point there is a viewing gallery infested with monkeys and provides for a glimpse of the waterfalls, for those who cannot trudge the 2 Kms. trek.  The journey was through jungle and hence it was a bit more pleasant, as direct sunlight was not making its full impact on the forest floor.  There were rivulets flowing by, with small wooden and metal bridges strewn across them for east passage, birds were chirping high up on the canopy and overall it was experiencing nature first hand.  We trudged for a good thirty odd minutes, stopping here for a gulp of water or there on a rock to catch our breath and suddenly the top of the waterfall became visible.  This vision suddenly rejuvenated our flagging spirits and the sprint was back in our legs.  There were quite a few monkeys around on the trek route and so were of same kind from our species as well, who despite instructions, were feeding them and thus, creating a nuisance for other visitors.  Even some foreigners, who are otherwise more appropriate in their approach, were indulging in the same act.  However, these little distractions were too trivial to take away the pleasure of imbuing the immensity and grandeur of the waterfall.

A photo of the famed Dudhsagar falls during monsoons - added from the internet

A bird inside the Mollem National Park

A train passing by high above on the bridge was an added spectacle for us and for a few seconds I went into a trance and visualized the view of the waterfall during rainy season when the waterfalls in cascades as the train passes by, albeit in reality it was a small trickle now.  I have culled an image of the fall from the internet as it appears during monsoons for benefit of my viewers to appreciate its immense beauty.  However, during monsoons no one is allowed to approach this base region due to heavy inflow of water and the other spectacle during these lean months is the water reservoir that forms at its base, where the tourists frolic during this period.  Having, spent a good hour or so at the base of the waterfalls, we retraced our steps back to the Jeep and fortunately being first to reach this time around, occupied the front seat and thus, was saved the torturous ride during the return journey.

A panoramic view of the Spice Garden

Close up of plant that provides Vanilla essence

Close up shot of Cashew fruit and flowers

A Nutmeg tree in the Spite garden

A Cardamom plant in the Spice Garden

       Having returned back Kulem, we again gulped in some packed fruit juice, cold drinks etc. to replenish our depleted energies and water intake to offset the loss due to heavy sweating.  Thereafter, we boarded the Tempo traveller again and headed back towards Panjim.  On the return leg of the journey, near the Ponda Township we headed to a Spice Garden (name I do not recollect or do not want to mention as I am not inclined to provide any recommendations etc.).  The trip to the spice garden was also a soothing experience, after traditional welcome, we were offered ginger lemon laced green tea, which was quite refreshing and for the kids there was a separate paid counter for purchasing cold drinks etc.  After a brief introduction thereafter, all guests were taken around the spice garden on a guided tour and this was followed by lunch that comprised of typical Goanese cuisine and we enjoyed every bit of it.  Thus, concluded our journey for the day and we headed back to your apartment in Arpora.

A short video of the Spice Garden visit

Visiting Dona Paula and enjoying the River cruise in Goa

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Visiting Dona Paula and enjoying the River cruise in Goa

A panoramic view of the Dona Paula - confluence of Zuari River with Arabian Sea

           I continue from where I had left off in my previous blog.  Having had our lunch we headed back to our service apartment, so as to avoid the harsh afternoon heat and for a brief siesta as well.  Thereafter, we started for Dona Paula at around 4.30 P.M in the evening and reached there in about 45 minutes.  Dona Paula is a secluded bay about 7 kms. from Panaji, with its magnificent view of the Mormugao harbour, it is one of the must visit destinations of Goa. This idyllic rocky tourist attraction lies at the junction where the Mandovi and the Zuari rivers meets the Arabian Sea.  The Dona Paula monument is located on a small islet, linked to the mainland by a small bridge and a quay.  However, during my visit the entire stretch was under renovation and hence the entire area was barricaded and tourists were not allowed to venture beyond the barricade.  But as I had also visited the destination in 2011, I have used my old pictures to convey the real essence of the destination.

A long shot of the cliff head of famed Dona Paula - present day view

A close up of the Dona Paula - as seen at present from a distance due to repair work

 This destination is also steeped in various local stories about a local lady named Dona Paula, who was in relationship with Portuguese nobility and hence was killed by being thrown off from the cliff.   A small collections of such anecdotes read as follows –

Dona Paula as it looked from nearer the site in 2011

The famed 'Image of India' one looking East and other West depicting confluence to two regions

The busy market selling wares of local flavour

           One legend has it that she was the lady-in-waiting of the Governor-General's wife, and in course of time the Governor fell victim to her beauty and charms. They were found out and the governor's enraged wife had her stripped and bound and rolled over the cliff, into the sea, wearing only her string of pearls, a gift of love from the Governor.

A SHORT VIDEO OF THE WATER SPORTS ETC. IN DONA PAULA, GOA

The local fishermen of the area and other natives of the place narrate quite a few ghost stories about Dona Paula.  Even the setting of moon phase has several connotations in their stories, some say that on moonlit nights, while others swear that on pitch dark nights and few others say that on the stroke of midnight, she rises from the sea and roams the area, wearing only a string of pearls and nothing else.

One of the many jetty s where from one board's the river Cruise boats

As the River cruise in Mondovi River commences

A local fishing boat passes by

          Another story that does round amongst the natives is that on Gasper Dias, a nobleman, on whose estates a fort was built because of its strategic importance, is also said to have been one of Dona Paula's lovers. Her ghost, local villagers say, appears looking desperately for the nobleman.

One of the many floating casinos - The Deltin Casino

Another of the many floating casinos - Casino Pride-II

Another one of the many floating casinos of Mondovi River - Big Daddy casino

However, now a days the most popular legend is that Dona Paula is believed to have been the daughter of one of the Portuguese Viceroys and her lover is believed to have been a native fisherman, a relationship which aroused strong racist feelings amongst the Portuguese, who got her killed by throwing her off from the cliff.  Now her ghost roams at night in search of her native lover.

A Sea Gull flying around for some food thrown by Cruise passengers

A locally ferry transporting passengers across the Mondovi River from Panaji

A typical Portuguese architecture - a home and a chapel

           There is a statute at the rocky cliff head and many just pass it off as the statute of Dona Paula and her lover.  However, the said whitewashed statue sculpted in 1969 by Baroness Von Leistner and named as the "Image of India" and is said to be depicting the figures of Mother India and Young India, one looking to the East and the other to the West. The Wheel of Ashoka, is in the middle half buried in stone to represent the ancient culture that nurtured this fusion of ideas and emotions.  Apart from this windswept spot, there are a lot of local water sport activities that are available here like boating, para-sailing, water scooters, yachting, swimming, wind surfing and fishing.  As for the ladies there are a lot of small shops selling local and other trinkets, which one might like to buy as souvenirs of their visit.

Artists performing Dhangar dance during cruise

Artists performing Kunbi dance on the cruise

The artists performing Musal dance during the river curise

The artists performing the Corredinho dance during the cruise

An integral part of Goa landscape - a Chapel by the river side

A panoramic view of the Miramar beach

As the sun sets and sets the water on fire - as seen from the River cruise

Another view of the setting sun from the River Cruise on Mondovi River in Goa

A fast moving river patrol boat of Goa Police

View of the lighted Chapel against the setting sun in Goa

As the sun light fades - the Casinos light up 

A close up of the Casino Pride II all lighted up as night falls on Mondovi River

Another cruise boat - all decked up at night with florescent colors glides by

View of the Treebo run serviced apartment in Arpora 

A photograph of Salt Restaurant in Arpora, Goa (sourced from web)

            Having spent some quality time at Dona Paula, we retraced our route back to the vicinity of the Panjim Township and visited the Miramar beach.  Thereafter, we headed for the jetty nearby and purchased the tickets for famed Mondovi River Cruise.  The cost the tickets vary from Rs.250/- to 750/- per person based upon the size and amenities being provided in the boats.  We settled for a middle priced Rs.450/- per head cruise boat.  The boat started its journey at around 6.15 P.M and there was an open deck on which the tourists were seated, with a small raised platform at one end where from local disc jockey’s played loud music, inviting the children and ladies in groups to dance on the stage.  After some time a local troupe performed live local dances and the host described the details of dances being performed.  A short detail of the dances performed were – (1) Dhangar Dance - Dhangars, a shepherd community believed to have migrated from Kathiawar region of South Gujarat and settled in the hilly north western fringes of Goa; (2) Kunbi Dance - Kunbis, the earliest settlers of Goa, are a sturdy tribal community, who though converted to Christianity, still retains the most ancient folk tradition of the land. Their songs and dance belonging to the pre-Portuguese era are uniquely social and not religious. The fast and elegant dance by a group of Kunbi women dancers, wearing traditional yet very simple dresses, lends a colourful touch to this ethnic art form.; (3) Mussal Dance - The Kshatriyas, the warrior class of 'Chandor', perform this dance-cum-song to celebrate the victory of Harihar, the Hindu King of Vijaynagar over the Cholas in the early 14th century; and (4) Corredinho Dance - A Portuguese folk dance and a beautiful example of Portuguese cultural influence, this elegant dance is highly popular among Goan elite youth. Corredinho Marcha de Fontainhas, a song-cum-dance, is famous for its rhythmic and exquisite footwork where normally six couples take part. The colourful costumes are a feast to the eye.   There are vendors who do the rounds on the decks selling their ware, mostly food items, but very few people were interested in buying, instead most of us had our eyes riveted on to the nature’s splendour that was unfolding before our eyes or else enjoying the dance show put forth by the troupe.  We returned back to the jetty at around 7.10 P.M and by that time the nightfall had been ushered in and we headed back to our hotel.  That night we dined at a upcoming shack restaurant known as ‘The Salt’ in Arpora, as it was walking destination from our place of stay.  We had authentic Goanese food, with the all-time favourite ‘Fish n’chips’ thrown in, along with main course and we enjoyed the ambience, food & service to the hilt. Thus, ended our second day of our Goa tour.

A SHORT VIDEO THE RIVER CRUISE IN GOA