You need to do these fun day trips from Panjim

If you are visiting Goa, you are most likely to land up first in Panjim, and you should. Panjim, the capital city of Goa is not only one of the most happening places in Goa, but is also rich in cultural and natural beauty.

Once you are done exploring Panjim, you need to take short day-trips from here. Right outside the city, just short distances away, there are several experiences waiting for you to explore. From waterfalls to wildlife to pre-historic sites, there are plenty of places to explore and culture and traditions to experience.

These quick day trips from Panjim are all that you would need to explore around.

The Portuguese called this island Ilhas Dos Fidalgos or the Island of the Noblemen. After more than 450 years of the Portuguese’s rule in Goa, we can still see the heritage the Portuguese left behind. Take the ferry to Chorao Island and once there, do visit the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary for some quality time with nature. Chorao Island’s mangroves are worth your time. While you are on the island, you might want to explore the island’s oldest church.

Goa and spices go hand in hand. Ponda has a number of spice plantations that you can pick from. Ponda is about an hour’s ride from Panjim city. The drive or ride will take you through some of the greenest routes in Goa. Pick any one of the spice plantations and go for the plantation tour. You will get plenty of souvenirs to bring back from these plantations. Don’t forget to have authentic Goan lunch at the plantation.

The famous Dudhsagar Falls is located approximately 75 km from Panjim. The drive to the waterfall will take you around 2.5 hours. Dudhsagar is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Goa, so you can expect plenty of tourists. But don’t fret, because once you are done with the waterfall visit and have taken your share of photographs, you can head to the Tambdi Surla temple. It is one of the most unique temples in India.

Located around 65 km from Panjim, Usgalimal is an interesting place to visit. It is home to petroglyphs or rock art that are estimated to be 4000-6000 years old. These belong to the Neolithic Period and are some of the earliest traces of human settlements in Goa. The site is protected under Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). You will get to see images of animals, humans and labyrinths engraved on rocks.

Chandor is located approximately 45 km from Panjim. It was the ancient capital of the Hindu Goans before the Portuguese came and ruled Goa. After Chandor, the capital was shifted to Velha Goa. Explore this ancient city for grand Portuguese mansions. You will get to see many heritage homes here. Best place for those interested in culture and heritage.

Dudhsagar Falls is located inside Mollem National Park. The park is the largest protected wildlife area in Goa. Go for a jungle safari because Mollem has a very rich wildlife. The park is home to several reptiles such as king cobra, hump-nosed pit viper, Indian rock python, Malabar pit viper, and several species of resident as well as migratory birds.

Go fort-hopping when in Goa. You will not be able to see all forts in a day but can definitely cover some of the best ones. Aguada Fort, Reis Magos Fort, Cabo de Rama Fort, Tiracol Fort, Corjuem Fort and Mormugao Fort are some of the best ones that you can safely choose from.

Want to try snorkelling? Ilha Grande or Grande Island is the place for you. The island is also popularly known as Bat Island. The waters surrounding the Grande Island have some of the best snorkelling spots. A visit to the island will take up your whole day, and you won’t mind it too.