Goa vacations are no longer limited to the usual tourist traps. Today’s visitors to Goa, in particular, want to experience the culturally rich state in its entirety. And you can only experience this in the villages of Goa that are still unexplored! There are villages to visit in Goa that welcome tourists wholeheartedly. These include Aldona, Olaulim, Assagao, Poinguinim, Agonda, and Mandur. 

Away from the crowded beaches of Goa, these villages are nothing less than a paradise for visitors. From secluded beaches to markets and scenic spots to authentic Goan restaurants, these unexplored villages in Goa have everything except the crowd!

Exploring these villages will undoubtedly alter your perception of Goa, as it did mine. To help you experience the same, I’ve compiled a list of villages in Goa that are a must-see in this blog post. So, keep reading until the end to plan a fantastic and one-of-a-kind itinerary for your next solo trip to Goa!

1. Aldona – the village of three bridges

Aldona is a charming village in Goa best known for its three bridges—Corjuem Bridge, Calvim Bridge, and Stone Bridge—each with a unique story. 

Although this village is quite far from the beaches, there is plenty to see and do. You can begin at the lesser-known Corjuem Fort and immerse yourself in history. The architectural style of the fort distinguishes it from the rest of the forts in Goa. Some say it’s from the Portuguese era, and some say it’s older than that. Later, you can head to one of the whitest cemeteries I have seen in my life – the Aldona Cemetery. It is hard to explain what I felt at this cemetery. Words simply don’t suffice. You must experience it on your own during your visit to the village.

Cost of staying a night: Rs. 2500

2. Olaulim – an ideal offbeat destination in Goa

Olaulim, with its lush green hills on the one hand and the backwaters of the Mandovi River on the other, is ideal for a break from the same old Goa trip. Explore this village on peddles on your next solo adventure. Cycle around the area and experience local life. You can even go fishing, take nature walks with the locals, and enjoy a delicious meal at their homes.

In addition, the village offers water sports activities such as kayaking. You can take a kayak ride across the village along the backwaters of the Mandovi River. You can also go white water rafting in the Mandovi River for an adrenaline rush.

That said, there is an exclusive activity in the village that you will thoroughly enjoy, as I did. That’s pottery. You simply need to pre-book the classes, and you’re ready to learn the new skill. If you have more time, plan an out-of-the-way staycation in this village.

Cost of staying a night: Rs. 3000

3. Assagao – a perfect village for ardent nature lovers and laid-back travellers

This village will make you fall in love with Goa all over again! It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Goa. The village is nestled in the hills, surrounded by cashew plantations. As a result, you will be greeted by breathtaking natural beauty and a soothing breeze from the Arabian Sea.

In addition, this village is an Ornithophile’s dream. You can spot a wide range of birds like Purple Sunbird, Asian Yellow Oriole, etc., right from the balcony of your stay. And lastly, do not forget to visit the Dossa Zor, a spring popular among visitors for its medicinal benefits. Isn’t that intriguing?

Cost of staying a night: Rs. 2500

4. Poinguinim – a place to slow down and soak in nature

Poinguinim, one of the best villages in South Goa, attracts visitors for various reasons. You’ll have the best time in this village, whether it’s the unrevealed turtle beach of Galgibaga or the Parshuram temple. The best place to see the rare Olive Ridley Turtles is at Galgibaga Beach. The sea at this beach is somewhat rough. So it is best not to swim at this beach.

If you’re planning to stay (highly recommended) in the village, you can opt for homestays rented by local hosts via Airbnb. It will cost you somewhere around Rs. 1500 per night. 

Cost of staying a night: Rs. 1500

5. Agonda – the all-in-one village for unwinding

The never-ending stretches of this fishing village captivate everyone’s hearts. Agonda is the quintessential village of South Goa. It has recently grown in popularity among tourists, particularly foreigners. And why wouldn’t it? The village has everything a traveller could want.

Agonda beach is one of the swim-friendly beaches in Goa. You can swim as long as you want. The water is shallow and warm. In case you’re tired after that, do not worry. You can unwind and relax at the shacks on the shoreline. In the evening, take a tour of Agonda market and collect some exclusive souvenirs. And once you’re done with shopping, you can end your day with a hearty meal at any local restaurant. 

Cost of staying a night: Rs. 1000

6. Mandur – a village of incredible people

If you enjoy meeting new people and learning about their cultures, you should visit this village in Goa’s Tiswadi Tehsil district. Mandur village is known for having the best community in Goa.

Moreover, if you’re visiting in February, align your dates with the Intruz festival. This is the only village where you can celebrate the 5-day festival in its truest form. The celebrations include stories, local music-Suvari Vadan, processions, and whatnot! I don’t think there’s any better way to witness a place’s art and culture than being a part of their celebrations.

Cost of staying a night: Rs. 2000

Distance from Goa International Airport 

Now that you’ve learned about these villages, I’m sure you’re eager to visit them. So, to make things easier for you, I’ve curated a table for the distance between these villages and the Goa International Airport. 

With that said, we have reached the end of this blog. These villages will appeal to those who appreciate lesser-known locations. There are many more villages in Goa, but these are my favourites. Please share this post if you find it informative and useful. And let me know in the comments which village on the list is your favourite!

If you’re visiting Goa for the first time, you can look into my article on the complete solo travel guide to Goa.

Until next time, enjoy your travels and stay safe!