I was in Bhubaneswar attending a seminar. But it ended much before the scheduled time and left me with sometime to explore the beautiful town. Since I had been to Bhubaneshwar earlier, I decided to visit Paradeep.

Well, Paradeep or Paradip is 111 km from Bhubaneswar and it took me a little above 2 hours to reach there by train. And, the scenic beauty of the place had me bewildered with joy. I had made arrangements of my stay at a homestay at Paradeep, just to get a feel of the local culture here and the life of the locals. And my experience was amazing.

Paradeep is famous for its clean and crystal blue water and after seeing it, it left me wondering whether someone has poured blue ink in the sea centuries ago! I spend quite some time sunbathing on the beach admiring the pure golden sand and the lush green forests.

Being one of the largest ports of India, Paradeep is always buzzing with activities. Tourists are generally not always allowed on this port but I had lady luck with me! I got to witness a magnificently large and beautiful cargo ship docked at the port. Many other tourists along with me were in awe of the giant ship. The Paradeep port itself is simply amazing. With the green forests on one side and the Bay of Bengal on its other sides, it creates a stunning sight to behold. Having admired the beauty of the port, I left to visit the other tourist spots.

I visited the marvelous temple of Lord Baladeva called Tulasi Kshetra, and witnessed some exquisite stone work. The temple is a perfect example of ancient India’s intricate baumalia stone work which reminds of the glorious past. My hosts at the homestay had said that the bhoga prasad here is a must have and very delicious. So, I decided to have it and it was so amazing that I was craving for more. The meal consists of several different preparations. After gorging on this delicious bhoga, I left for Jhankad. Jhankad is famous for the Goddess Sarala’s temple. Goddess Sarala is the Goddess of wisdom & knowledge and you get to see evident signs of Vaishnava culture in the temple.

The next day, I explored Gahirmatha and Bhitarkanika National Park, which are the must see places in Paradeep. The Gahirmatha beach houses some spectacular sea turtle breeds & it is famous for a white crocodile, which I was lucky enough to get a view of. I also saw the deer and the colorful migratory birds. The Bhitarkanika National Park has been a crocodile sanctuary since long and here you will find some rare crocodile breeds, which are massive and fearsome. This large expanse of forest area is covered by mangroves that further added to the beauty of this place. With a train to catch that day, I returned early and was on my way back home.

This short trip to Paradeep was not only rejuvenating, but it also changed my views regarding India’s rich treasure of scenic beauty, waiting to blow off your mind.

Taking in the View at Vengurla’s Lighthouse

My friends and I had mainly come here for the many beautiful beaches that Vengurla had. But after we reached our homestay, it was past mid-day. And what better time to visit the Lighthouse and bask in the beauty of the sunset. So, we took a trip to Vengurla’s Lighthouse, another visiting point and tourist spot that Vengurla is pretty famous for.

The view from the top of the lighthouse was breathtaking. The incredible view of the waves crashing against the lighthouse walls and the sound of the powerful waves was both awe-inspiring and calming. And then, when we looked up, the view opened up to the wide horizon of the vast sky.

We witnessed the best sunset of our life. The big ball of red fire started descending into the sea, splashing the sky with stark shades of red and gold, which then melded into purples and dark blues as the sun sank lower behind the sea. Sea birds trilled in flocks against the colorful sky and added a strangely harmonious accompaniment to the crashing waves below.

After it became dark, we reluctantly left since we had our beds and luggage awaiting us.

Beaches Galore!

We didn’t go to the lighthouse again until the end of our trip – mostly because we were worried we would while away our entire trip just standing there. And since we’d come here for the beaches, so those beaches we shall enjoy.

The Sagareshwar Beach was our first beach after the lighthouse. And once we were there, we happily indulged in an entire-day spree of digging in the sand, walking the shoreline, gazing at the waves, and wading in the water. We spent the entire day there. And, well, it can be rightly said that, that’s how the rest of our trip mostly went. We went to Vengurla’s Jetty, a scenic spot that offered a wonderful view of the sea; the Nivati Beach was small but it was very clean and the water was calm; and finally the Mochemad Beach, which again had the ocean on display like a prize.

We visited the Sargeshwar Shiva Temple on the last day of our trip and then spent the rest of the day exploring the town and shops. But we mainly gravitated to the sand and sea like moths to a flame. And every day that we saw the sunset splash its signature colors of the sky, that’s almost exactly how we felt: like we were bathing in soft fire. So, if you love the beach and love the water, consider Vengurla your personal piece of beach-front heaven.

Being the list-loving girl, I had a list of places to visit ready, long before our little group had even arrived at the homestay at Varkala. Though we had the Varkala beach and the Janardhana Swami Temple topping our list, we also had plans to see the other attractions at Varkala.

The beach was an obvious point of visit as Varkala itself is a coastal town. Plus, it was pretty well known for its mineral enriched water that was supposed to have healing properties. In fact, there are spas and an Ayurvedic center there that has taken full advantage of this access to healthy healing natural springs.

Picturesque Beaches for the Perfectly Lazy Day

Varkala beach or the Papanasam beach was the first place that we visited. The peaceful and private atmosphere and the relative calmness of the beach helped us unwind and truly relax. This relaxation was exactly why most of us had come on this trip. We spent the day lazily, dipping our toes in the water, clicking snaps randomly and all-around, and then relaxing some more. By the end of the day, each one of us felt more relaxed and carefree than we had felt in a long time!

Varkala Tunnel and the historic Anjengo Fort

The next day, we visited the Varkala Tunnel, which is 924 feet long. Can you imagine! Well, according to history, it took 14 years to build this canal, which was a major development in the water transportation system, back during the British rule. At the Anjengo Fort, we explored history with the remaining fragments of the old English Fort against the natural scenic beauty. It was simply breathtaking. Well, history is always interesting I feel!

Exploring and Sampling the Famous Healing Waters

On our third day we spent the day exploring the other lovely haunts that Varkala offered. Janardhana Swami Temple was our first stop, where the serenity was like no other. It was utterly divine, and the experience was only matched by what we felt when we visited the Sivagiri mausoleum.

Having heard about the healing properties of the water here, we decided to end our day with a visit to the famous natural spas. Our rejuvenating session included a massage, after which we took a dip in the natural spring. I am not sure whether the healing properties are rumored but the re-energized feeling and the relaxation that you feel after the session is something which was a truly magical experience. We did feel practically new when we emerged out of the water!

Varkala is a perfect place to shed the cares of your life and unwind like we did at a homestay. Away from the city life, this place is really a stress buster.

One thing became clear to us at least: Why the place was called Kovalam. For we all saw the coconut trees trailing off into infinity. The place was certainly aptly named. But that was mostly an absent observation. Before dashing for the beaches, we were served a cool welcome drink by our docile host at the homestay and we felt even more energized.

It honestly looked like something out of a postcard. Waves lapping gently at the golden shore like the sea was having a playful game of tag with the beach. Tiny, languidly moving figures of beach-goers who’d gotten there before us. The dim sunlight of late afternoon and very early evening that hadn’t quite yet reached those dark red tones of sunset.

The Three Kovalam Beaches

Even before we had left for Kovalam, all that we had heard about was the Lighthouse Beach, which is a famous tourist spot. But our host informed us that there were actually three beaches to explore and we could not restrain our joy and thank him excitedly. Well, the other beaches are the Hawah beach and the Samudra Beach.

And we headed straight for the Lighthouse Beach. And let me tell you, it doesn’t matter how much you travel, you always wind up in awe about how wonderful something looks when you finally see it for real. Which is what happened with us too.

The coastline view was even more amazing in close-up, and a helpful passerby who caught us gawking at the sea cheerfully told us that the outcroppings is what separated this beach from the other two. (I’m still surprised I remember this tidbit, since the photographer in me had taken over and I was busy clicking pictures of the horizon and the sea.) The picturesque lighthouse on a tall hillock on one side of the beach along with the setting sun, bathed the area in red, gold and purple hues, which further accentuated the beauty of the landscape.

We stayed there until the moon rose and the stars twinkled. Though we were covered in damp sand and water, but we loved every second of it! Having decided that we would be back on the last day of our trip, we headed towards our homestay.

The next day, we headed to the Hawah Beach and the calm blue water of the ocean had us mesmerized. We thoroughly enjoyed the local Kovalam cuisine and then headed towards the Samudra Beach, which was more of the fishermen’s business area.

It was such a wonderfully amazing short trip that we had. Kovalam just so aptly fits the description of a beautiful heaven on earth.

It seemed the place had cast a spell over him because for most part of the conversation, he was waxing eloquent on the charms of Gavi, though he had covered many other spots. Anyway, I had forgotten about it but when it was time to plan a trip with my wife, Gavi was decided as the destination. Shruti was adamant on visiting some unique place and then suddenly Gavi flashed in my mind. So, we booked a home stay and landed at Gavi few days after, wondering what lay in store for us. Well, lots of gems awaited us as Gavi was indeed remarkable among places to see in Kerala.

The place has not been affected by the rampages of unrestrained tourism and hence, looks very naïve with dense forests and placid backwaters. En route, we had the luck to sight an elephant. After the check post, it becomes a little rough, but you are so lost in the views that you cannot sense it all. When we had unpacked and freshened up at the home stay, we decided to go to the charming Gavi Lake and the visit gave us ample rejuvenation. The sparkling clean water feels like nectar and the boating is like cruising in the clouds. We sat on the banks for a long time; meditating and chatting at the same time.

Not hardcore adventurers, we loved the walk around the plantations. The aroma of coffee, cardamom and other spices is so tempting that you feel like stealing the bounty. It is a welcome relief from the manicured gardens of our city where it is all flowers and decorative plants. We roamed around the village unguided, letting our intuition get the better of our mind. And it bestowed us with many rewards. Classic photographs and precious moments of togetherness had not reached us before. Gavi was indeed a paradise among places to see in Kerala.

Staying at top tree huts was also out of question but it happened and what a delight it was. A must-try, it takes you back to childhood days. All you can do is dream and fantasize. And how can I forget the beautiful view of Sabarimala Temple from the hill top? Surrounded by forests, it seems like the actual abode of Lord. We also watched the sun going down the hills from there. It was on the insistence of our host that we took the jeep safari, and I have to say, the Gavi administration deserves a bow for preserving the flora and fauna. We came across lion tailed macaque, bison, giant squirrel and many other species.

Do go to Gavi if you get a chance. It is a hidden gem among places to see in Kerala. You will not find its equal anywhere else.

Oh Yes! There’s not much explanation needed as you all know that Goa has been an antidote for many yearners seeking that one quick and instant rejuvenation from their mundane and frenzied lifestyle. Throughout the year, Goa is swarming with tourists and as a matter of fact, Goa thrives on tourism.

Although there are an array of resorts and hotels sprawling in Goa, there is equally a huge demand for homestays. The homestays in Goa give you that elegant Goan-Portuguese feel and are more like the quaint little houses with coconut trees delivering that home-like feel. Enjoy the pleasures of old wooden furniture, enormous backyards, high-ceilinged living rooms while you sip on your favourite drink lazing on the old rocking chair.

The homestays are located along the countryside away from the city’s hustle bustle and tourist spots. The idea of living in a homestay at the countryside and travelling to the beach will let you get the best of both worlds. Areas like Parra, Saligaon and Assagaon are mainly where the homestays are present. Apart from being affordable, homestays are also convenient and functional in their own ways. The best way to explore the city is the local way, i.e., get to know the town from its inhabitants. Your vacation will be fun filled and you will cherish each moment as you get to know every minute detail from the locals along with some great tips on the Do’s and Dont’s (there are hardly any). So next time, do join a family and explore all corners of Goa!

Not only this, the best way to explore the city is to speak to the locals as they have the latest and real-time information about all the hotspots ranging from party hubs to great food and sightseeing options.

Goa takes you into a complete different world of exquisite pleasure comprising pristine beaches, East-meets-West cuisine with an enthralling canvas of colonial mansions boasting of rich heritage. There a numerous way to spend your time in Goa. Like most of them you can either chill by the beach. Colva is the supreme activity hub and the most popular beach of South Goa filled with shops, hotels, resorts, bistros, beach shacks while Benaulim, Utorda and Palolem are other exciting beaches one can visit. North Goa has Ashwem, Baga, Calangute and Candolim beaches which are for sure worth a visit.

You can either lounge amidst the nature or go on an adventure spree enjoying water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling, which will leave you with adrenaline rush soaring high. While you are in Goa, you can also take a cruise into the other side of Goa and experience the lush green spice plantations, canoes and churches. You can also visit Dudhsagar waterfall and enjoy your day amidst the milky waters and wind up your day on a Mandovi dinner cruise filled with entertainment and a delicious spread of fusion cuisine. North and South Goa have a plethora of sightseeing options, so if you are on a long vacation you can spend a day or two exploring the wonders of this city.

Unwind to the swaying palms and enjoy the Portuguese rhythms of Goa’s irresistible charms.

Bekal is India’s first planned beach destination. It has been developed in a way so as to not disturb the ecological balance of the region. It is said that that the place had been the seat of a big palace in the past. Located in God’s Own Country, Kerala, Bekal is well endowed. In other words, Bekal is an amazing place that has a lot to offer in terms of natural wonders.

The first stop on my itinerary was of course the Bekal Fort. This fort stands amidst the sea with the musical sound of the waves. It is believed that Bekal Fort might have existed since the days of Chirakal Rajjas as it was common during those days to build a fort for defense purpose. This fort has stood undeterred over the ages and is a witness to all the eventful years. Bekal Fort also happens to be the biggest fort in Kerala, spread over forty acres.

I belong to that category of globe trotters who love beaches and I wouldn’t miss Kappil Beach for anything. Spread over an area of about 25 acres, a walk along the beach with the sand seeping inside your shoes is absolute bliss.

Bekal is also home to the Chandragiri Fort and Hosdurg Fort. Chandragiri Fort is situated next to Chandragiri River and offers a picturesque view to the Arabian Sea. I opted for a motorboat ride from Kappil Beach to reach the Chandragiri River. And it was great fun. The Hosdurg Fort has a religious feel to it owing to the Nityanand Ashram located there.

After having seen enough of monuments, I decided to visit the Vaiyaparamba Backwaters. This seemed to be as a popular tourist spot and for the right reasons too. Fed by four rivers and numerous islands, this beautiful place is a popular fishing centre where one can take boat rides. If you come to Bekal and don’t take a boat ride, you will miss out a lot. The calm blue water along with the array of tall palm trees is a sight to behold and I felt as if I was in paradise.

My next stop was the Malikarjuna temple, which was built by Ikkeri Kings in the 17^th century for paying tribute to warriors. The locals believe that the idol of Lord Shiva was placed in the temple by Arjuna. On the southern side of the temple, the Kumbala River flows. The beautiful figures of the various Gods and Goddesses had me mesmerized.

A trip to Kerala, without covering Bekal would mean that missing out a lot. So remember to include this beautiful place in your travel itinerary.

I really wanted to have some quite time and thus decided to opt for a home stay instead of a hotel. My homestay was located in the beautiful Parule Village in the Konkan area, near Sawantwadi. My refuge was a beautiful cottage made out of natural materials. Never in my life had I imagined that a city dweller like me would live in a place like this and would enjoy it. My elegant cottage was cocooned in a dense coconut, banana, beetle nut tree plantation and the greenery all around me never failed to lull me into a beautiful peace. The sight of the lush greenery has a rejuvenating effect on my soul.

I decided to go take a walk around the village and I experienced the grand heritage of the old style Konkani houses and was delighted to see mud houses for real. I participated in some farming activities like watering trees, and I felt as if I have been transported to my wonderland. I really enjoyed them. When I was tired from all the activities and my stomach growled, my hosts served me the regional food from earthen pots and I ate on banana leaves called Patravali. The whole experience allowed me to connect with nature and it really had a soothing effect on my mind and spirit. My host told me that the vegetables were grown on the village and the food was cooked on Chool which gave the food a distinc flavour.

I lazed around with a book on the easy chair in the balcony and then decided to visit the natural water stream in the farm. I love bird watching and was really happy to capture some stunning images of birds. To say that I experienced a divine tranquility would be an understatement. I also visited the Adinarayan Temple, an ancient Sun Temple and was in awe with its beautiful architecture and the intricate details. On my way back to my cottage, I saw some village folk performing the ‘Gav-Rathi’ ritual.

The next day, I was accompanied by my hosts to visit the Lotus Lake and Mauli Temple Village Pat. I had great fun indulging in boating and fishing in the Khavan Beach. After returning to my cottage, I was filled to the brim by the delicious sumptuous lunch served by my host. And since it was time for me to return to my regular life, I thanked my host with a heavy heart.

As I walked out of the farm, I promised myself to come back again to feel the beauty of nature and to experience a life that is connected to nature and its simplicity.

For a recommendation on Sindhudurg stay, visit Sindhudurg Homestay.

However, when I explored the real Goa, the one that speaks of the enduring traditions and customs of this former Portuguese colony, I was delighted. And all the credit goes to my dear hosts for they introduced me to numerous wonders which I could not have experienced had I opted for the usual hotels in Goa. I chose a home stay for my Goa tour near the quiet Olaulim River.

The beautiful cottage was surrounded by paddy fields and tiny hillocks, that gave me a blissful experience every day. I was taken around the village on long relaxed walks, at times cycling alongside my host-cum-guide, on their shopping trips. The beauty of the quiet town was splendid and mesmerizing. The gentle breeze beckoned without disturbing my meditative trance. The architectural marvels stood tall in the form of temples, mansions and chapels. My eyes feasted to the hilt and when it was time for my stomach to have its share, I was served excellent Goan cuisine by the hostess. Cooked in the traditional style on wood-fire, with locally grown spices, it was a soul-stirring delicacy. And to add to the flavors of the sumptuous meal, they accompanied it with fresh fruits and wine.

Coming to the adventure days, the canoe rides were exciting and beautiful at the same time. Alongside the river, around the hills, hornbills, storks, egrets, storks and other avian species were crooning and cavorting. They were magnetic in their myriad colors and characteristics! Set to capture the spectacle, I took out one whole day just for the lovely birds. Armed with my binoculars, camera and of course, my sweet host, I was out in the forests, capturing the fantasy. The day over, now it was time for some shopping and for this, what better than the Anjuna’s Wednesday Flea Market.

Completely worth the haggling and jostling, since it was too crowded, I managed to crack some cool deals. Left with some more time, I was thinking of some other plan when the Star’s shop caught my eyes. It offered to teach you magic tricks in two minutes. Gave it a shot and yes, I have learnt an amusing trick.

As the time to pack my bag beckons me, I wonder how much unaware I was about the riches of this mystical place. Well, this trip to Goa was nothing short of a dream , courtesy the lovely homestay and its hosts and will always be etched in my mind. And I also promised myself that I will come back to Goa again to let my mind, body and soul drift in the mystical powers of this place.

The next time you are in Goa, try a homestay. Visit Goa Homestays for some suggestions.