Travel moves the soul. Not just the changed environment that it brings along, but those heart-warming encounters with people you’ve never met before and the authentic experiences that can really transform you.
That’s what Goa is offering those headed her way — a trip that’s all about deeper connections, unique learnings and supporting local communities.
Ever wanted to join in the Carnival dancing on Goa’s streets or visit a local house and feel the host’s hospitality? Well, if you do, it’s time to keep the well-researched itinerary aside and reach out to these travel experts for an immersive and memorable Goa sojourn.
SOUL TRAVELLING
True to their name, Soul Travelling lets you feel the soul of Goa, shifting the narrative of Goa beyond its mainstream image of beaches and nightlife, to its rich heritage, vibrant culture and lesser-known gems.
“We offer a wide range of experiences, from cultural and culinary trails to nature and heritage walks,” says Arishma Gomes, Marketing Associate at Soul Travelling. Their popular trails include Margao Cultural Walk, Saligao Passai, Houses of Goa, Secret Food Trail and Chorao Island Experience among others.
Dedicated to providing offbeat and authentic travel experiences in Goa since 2017, Soul Travelling is a passion project of two childhood friends – Varun Hegde and Kedar Borkar. “With expertise in both North and South Goa, we showcase unique architecture, local cuisine, hinterlands and Goa’s vibrant festivals,” adds Arishma.
As the interest in experiential travel has grown in recent years, Soul Travelling has seen a significant rise in demand for authentic Goan experiences from international and domestic visitors alike.
"Travelers are increasingly drawn to authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, especially as the tourism industry is becoming more commercialised,” points Arishma. Although the group size depends on the nature of the trail, they host 2 to 12 people to ensure personalised experiences.
THE LOCAL BEAT
Offering a refreshing alternative to conventional travel is Mackinlay Barreto’s The Local Beat. Founded in 2016, The Local Beat invites guests to discover the charm of 1970s and 1980s Goa, beyond the realm of mass tourism, connecting travellers with the authentic essence of Goa.
“We are a reminder that despite all the over-tourism in Goa, there will always be authentic, earthy and heart-warming Goan experiences to seek and soak in,” says Mackinlay who along with his team hosts forest, stream, riverside and pool picnics, island and village pasois (walks), feni trails at quaint taverns and dining experiences at heritage mansions.
Under Mackinlay's guidance, The Local Beat hosts intimate gatherings of up to 12 guests where they savour homey breakfasts, seasonal snacks, signature feni cocktails, and engage in cashew seed roasting, all while immersing themselves in stories, songs and the warmth of Goan hospitality.
“The Local Beat is in the business of crafting happy memories – by connecting people to locals and sights and stories of an old-world Goa that exists and thrives. As a guest of The Local Beat, one indulges in a bit of everything, and walks away with a wish fulfilled,” adds Mackinlay.
KHOJ-AAO ADVENTURES
Beautifully encapsulating the spirit of exploration, Khoj-aao when put together literally means ‘to get lost or wander’. Founded in 2015, by Pooja Rani and Bipin Bhosale, Khoj-aao Adventures aims to promote responsible tourism, encouraging individuals to immerse themselves in nature while adopting sustainable practices.
Through curated trails across both North and South Goa, the venture caters to diverse groups, from locals, students to international travellers. “We take smaller groups, that is a ratio of 1:8 for adults and 2:8 for students, ensuring safety and minimal environmental impact,” says Pooja.
Facilitating experiential nature experiences that blend culture, biodiversity, heritage, and local cuisine, Pooja shares about their popular trail, “It’s called the Backyard Nature Trail that offers a unique two-hour exploration of any place where the guest is staying. When people visit Goa, apart from eating at restaurants and visiting the beach, Goa has so much to share, so we try to give that in a short experience.”
With a focus on slow-paced discovery, picnics with local snacks, and expert guidance, Khoj-aao Adventures fosters a deeper understanding of Goa's ecosystems, including plateaus, khazan lands, riversides, villages and cultural heritage.
So, if you are planning a trip to Goa, ditch the usual tourist trails and get a real experience of Goa by reaching out to these travel agencies.