Family Adventure in Goa: Sun, Sand, and Culture

A Day of Discovery in Goa's Interior

Today was all about venturing away from the sun-kissed beaches and delving into the heart of Goa. It's amazing how much this small state has to offer beyond its coastline. Priya, Devon, and I were excited to explore ancient caves, cascading waterfalls, and, of course, sample more of Goa's diverse culinary scene. It was a day filled with history, nature, and delicious food – a perfect blend for our family adventure.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Soul Chef Goa- Feasts From The North East. As someone who appreciates diverse culinary experiences, I was eager to try North Eastern cuisine right here in Goa. The restaurant was cozy, and the aromas were inviting. I opted for a traditional Assamese thali, while Priya chose a Tibetan noodle soup, and Devon, ever the adventurous one, went for the Chinese options. Each dish was a burst of unique flavors, a testament to the chef's skill in bringing the essence of North East India to Goa. It was a delightful start to our day, fueling us for the explorations ahead.

With our bellies full, we set off to explore the Arvalem Caves, also known as the Pandava Caves. Driving through the Goan countryside is always a treat, with its lush greenery and quaint villages. The caves themselves are an intriguing site, carved out of laterite rock and steeped in history and legend. It's believed that these caves date back to the 6th century and may have been used by Buddhist monks for meditation. Local legends also connect them to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, who supposedly sought refuge here during their exile. Walking through the five chambers, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the stories these ancient walls could tell.


Discover the ancient Arvalem Caves in Goa, a remarkable archaeological site featuring stunning rock-cut chambers and serene natural beauty.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in discovering new perspectives.

After the caves, we made our way to the Harvalem Waterfalls, a short distance away. It being March, the falls weren't at their zenith, but the silvery trickle of water cascading down the rocks was still a sight to behold. The area surrounding the falls was lush and green, providing a peaceful retreat. Devon was particularly thrilled, clambering over the rocks and splashing in the small pool at the base of the falls. Priya and I enjoyed the serene atmosphere, taking in the natural beauty and capturing some memorable photos. It was a refreshing break from the heat and hustle of the coastal areas.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Harvalem Waterfalls, a must-visit natural attraction in Goa, where nature, adventure, and tranquility meet.

For lunch, we decided to try Spicy Bella Restaurant, hoping to spice things up a bit. The restaurant offered a multi-cuisine menu, and we decided to sample some of their Indian dishes. I opted for a Goan fish curry, while Priya chose a vegetable biryani, and Devon went for butter chicken. The food was flavorful, although perhaps a bit too spicy for Devon's liking. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, and the service was friendly and attentive. While it wasn't the best meal we've had in Goa, it was still a satisfying experience.


Discover a world of flavors at Spicy Bella Restaurant in Calangute - where Indian spices meet global cuisine in a vibrant setting.

In the afternoon, while Priya enjoyed a leisurely nap, Devon and I ventured out for a bit of shopping. We stumbled upon Infiniti Boutique, a local shop known for its unique collections. Devon was on the hunt for a souvenir to take back to his friends in Toronto, and I was looking for a stylish shirt to add to my travel wardrobe. The boutique had a wide array of clothing and accessories, and we both found something that caught our eye. It was a fun little detour, and we enjoyed supporting a local business.


Explore Infiniti Boutique in Goa for a unique blend of beachwear, haute couture, and trendy accessories – the ultimate shopping experience by Baga Beach.

As evening approached, we made our way to A Reverie for dinner. This restaurant had been highly recommended for its innovative cuisine and elegant ambiance. Nestled in a beautifully decorated space, A Reverie promised a unique dining experience. We started with some creative cocktails, each a work of art in itself. For our main courses, I chose the seafood platter, Priya opted for the molecular gastronomy tasting menu, and Devon, feeling adventurous, went for the chef's special. Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, bursting with flavors and textures that delighted our senses. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was romantic and sophisticated. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Experience modern European cuisine at A Reverie in Calangute, Goa – where exquisite flavors meet enchanting ambiance.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Goa has to offer beyond its beaches. The Arvalem Caves and Harvalem Waterfalls provided a glimpse into the state's rich history and natural beauty, while the diverse culinary experiences at Soul Chef Goa, Spicy Bella, and A Reverie tantalized our taste buds. It was a day of discovery, adventure, and delicious food – a perfect representation of what makes Goa such a special place.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Butterfly Beach and Cabo De Rama Viewpoint, and perhaps even experience some of Goa's nightlife at Sinq Night Club. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us on the next leg of our family adventure in Goa.

As I sit here, penning down the events of the day, I'm reminded of how fortunate I am to share these experiences with my family. Travel, after all, is not just about seeing new places, but about creating lasting memories with the ones you love. And as we continue our journey through Goa, I'm filled with anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead, and grateful for the opportunity to experience them with Priya and Devon.

The Goan sun has set, but the memories of today will linger long after we've left this beautiful state. From ancient caves to cascading waterfalls, from flavorful thalis to molecular gastronomy, Goa has truly captured our hearts and souls. And as we drift off to sleep, we dream of the adventures that await us tomorrow, eager to explore even more of this enchanting land.

Goa, you've been good to us. Here's to another day of sun, sand, culture, and adventure!