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PANAJI
Summers in Goa have long been defined by the salt air and lazy afternoons along the coast. However, as temperatures climb to unprecedented highs and the famous beaches reach their saturation point, a significant shift is occurring. Both long-time residents and discerning travellers are beginning to look beyond the shoreline, trading the crowded sand for the emerald canopy of the State’s hinterlands.
This inward migration reveals a side of Goa that feels like a well-kept secret — a nostalgic, magnetic world where the air is noticeably cooler. Far from the tourist frenzy, the interior offers a sanctuary of natural freshwater pools, traditional spice farms, and dense forests that provide a much-needed canopy of shade. As the coastal strip becomes increasingly commercialised, this movement towards the “Other Goa” allows both locals and visitors to reconnect with the state’s quiet, authentic heart.
Heera Farm, Kasarvarne
“Mostly, it’s Goans who come here. The swimming pool, shaded by tall trees, is one of the main attractions,” states Jayant Dinanath Shirodkar from Heera Farm. “This is a kulaghar (traditional plantation). People who are generally exhausted with city life look forward to this farm, surrounded by nature.”
From rustic cottage stays to poolside birthday parties and family engagements, the estate offers a multifaceted local escape. With its lush green fruit plantations and a dedicated party pool, blissfully isolated and miles away from the coastal chaos, Heera Farm has evolved into the perfect one-stop destination for Goans wanting to celebrate in quiet seclusion.
Indira Farms, Mollem
Located amidst dense greenery, Indira Farms looks like a sanctuary straight out of a Goan folk tale. Offering winding riverside trails, guided nature walks, and a soon-to-be-introduced bird-watching trail, the farm provides a stark, peaceful contrast to the loud coast. “As the heat increases and summer holidays begin, we are seeing an increasing number of tourists opting for offbeat locations. They want to stay surrounded by nature, away from the crowd,” explains owner Saurabh Kamat.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. With so many activities being offered, Indira Farms attracts guests of all kinds, from those wishing to soak in the sun by the poolside to those wanting adventure on the riverside trail.
NV Eco Farm, Sanvordem
“Locals and tourists — not just domestic, but also international — are choosing the hinterlands away from the public eye. On beaches, the crowds and hawkers cause a menace, but this place offers them a space they can truly call their own!” states Smita Patil, director of N V Eco Farms.
Featuring a vibrant butterfly garden and expansive cashew trails, the farm is highly sought after for its tranquillity. “The Cashew Trail is our summer special, since it’s the season. We include our guests in the whole traditional process, from picking the cashews to roasting them, etc. They all absolutely enjoy it!” she concludes.
Suyog Eco Farm, Agonda
Located in the verdant stretches of South Goa, Suyog Eco Farm presents a seamless mix of rustic tradition and modern comfort. Well-equipped to cater to locals seeking a peaceful weekend getaway, this eco-farm boasts family rooms, private villas, and couples’ suites at very reasonable rates. “Our farm is for multipurpose use. We have gardens, swimming pools, and a restaurant, all serving as a destination for both day and night parties,” says Pramod Desai, owner of Suyog Eco Farms.
“While beaches still get their share of the crowd, our reasonably priced rooms and villas, as well as our other amenities, are probably what attract them!” he adds with a smile.
As the coastline increasingly transforms into a series of overcrowded and overhyped hubs, those spending their summers in Goa are beginning to rewrite the rules of the season. Seeking true solace now requires a deliberate departure from the sun-baked sand, as both residents and savvy travellers venture into the shaded heart of the state to find the quietude the coast once offered.
This shift is redefining the quintessential Goan holiday, moving the focus from the shoreline to the sanctuary of the interior. Whether it’s finding balance under a forest canopy with a chilled glass of traditional kokum sarbaat or enjoying the simple luxury of roasted, hand-plucked cashews, vacationers are now looking beyond the horizon to rediscover the state’s authentic, inland charm.
