Sugar and spice

A retreat deep in the wild, away from the beaches, the Sahakari Spice farms is a haven of spices and herbs. Its 30 km from Panaji and a perfect choice for a drive from Goa.
You will reach Sahakari Spice Farms before your desired 40 winks in the car. A tropical spice plantation spread over 130 acres with thick vegetation.

As you step in to the farm you are greeted with an Arti, welcome drink, garland of flowers and cashewnuts. There are some 84 different birds in this farm. The crisp air, the untamed wilderness infects your mind as you pluck and taste the spices. This is the only farm in Goa, which has vanillary plantation. The farm is landscaped with trees of nutmeg, cardamom, ginger and turmeric. One comes across tropical fruit bearing trees such as jackfruit, breadfruit, guava, papaya, mango, pineapple, sapota and more.
Another must-see is the betel nut palms, coconut palms and banana grown in an organic way. As you walk past the mini dairy with cross bred cows and the bio-gas plant attached to the dairy unit, the organizers have also constructed a feni (cashew liquor) distillation unit. After you have had your fill of the tall trees, the guide asks you to stand erect. And before you know it, she pours cold water on your back. The water is believed to have healing powers making you feel lighter.


A buffet consisting of the ubiquitous Goan pao, some dal, a prawn curry, rawa fried fish, a vegetable dish, chicken cooked Goan style, some kokum curry and a sweet. One also finds elephant feeding, elephant washing and elephant rides available for the visitors. The organic farm also houses effective products for holistic health. Frankly, there is no escaping this truly beautiful extravaganza of nature.