Goa is synonymous with beaches and scintillating nightlife. And their beaches are something one will never get tired of. It keeps pulling you back. When it comes to the most favoured tourist destination in India- Goa comes right on top. Foreigners and Indians love this beach destination with equal fervour. So here we are taking you on a tour around those little gems that desperately need your attention next time you visit Goa. Did you know that almost 50% of Goa is filled with forests and therefore you can see infinite varieties of flora and fauna here. We present 3 islands you must definitely explore in Goa.
Monkey Island: With its fill of trees and flora, this island located on the west of Mormugao (the quiet unassuming side of south Goa) is called the Grand Island or Ilaha Grande Island or the Monkey Island. As the name suggests the island is filled with monkeys. 20 minutes of boat ride from Agonda beach will take you to Monkey Island. There are boats toward Palolem from here. You can see Dolphins jumping up and down in the clear waters of the Arabian Sea, vying for your attention and showing off their moves. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving are available with all the equipment and a guide. You can book the Grand Island trip online. Their package includes—Pick up and drop from your hotel in an AC shared vehicle, Boat trip with sightseeing, Snacks, fruits, water, and drinks (rum/beer) onboard the boat, Dolphin Sighting, Fishing, Snorkeling and scuba diving with equipment, Life jackets, and Buffet lunch.
Bat Island: You will find boats once you reach the shores of Vasco Da Gama Island. It is located just 1 kilometer away from Baina Beach at Vasco Da Gama and is popularly known as Pequeno. This island is ideal for those who love a bit of adventure. Its picturesque scenery and beautiful blue waters will soothe your hearts. They have facilities to try water sports. Also look out for different kinds of fishes like parrotfish, Tigerfish, Butterflyfish, and sea turtles.
Otter Island: The island is located on Charao island, one of the best-kept secrets of the state. This is the dwelling area of Otters and therefore the name. The first thing that holds your attention would be the group of wild otters hanging around. Wild Otters The research was founded in September 2014 by a group of researchers and proactive individuals who have put efforts into making it the pioneering foundation in building capacity for otter conversation in India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. It was founded with a vision of securing the future of otters. Otters have long called the Mapusa, Mandovi, and Zuari rivers of Goa their home, but both industrialization and human intervention have threatened their natural habitats. They have also started a conservation centre to preserve Otters. To reach here you can catch a bus from Panjim to Ribandhar. By road, you can reach the Ribandar jetty. They will ferry you to Charao island. Wild Otters Research also offers ample workshops throughout the year that revolve around jungle survival, bushcraft, raft building, and other certifications that you can be part of.
