While most of India lights up with diyas and prayers during Diwali, Goa celebrates with a different kind of energy. Narakasur Chaturdashi, the state’s unique prelude to the festival, bursts to life with towering effigies, firecrackers, and street parades. Across villages and towns, young men spend weeks crafting larger-than-life Narakasur idols, painting them in grotesque yet enchanting hues. By early morning, these effigies are set ablaze, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness, and locals celebrate with traditional food, gifts, and the crushing of a bitter berry, called kareet, underfoot. Visiting Mapusa, Margao, Panjim, or Bicholim during this time is a spectacle—crowds gather well before sunrise to witness the processions, the crackle of flames, and fireworks illuminating the Goan sky.
Amid all this celebration, there’s another side of Goa waiting to be discovered: serene beaches, hidden forts, and tranquil villages far from the usual tourist trails. If you’re planning a long Diwali weekend in the coastal state, here’s a curated list of offbeat spots that promise sunsets, Instagram-worthy vistas, and experiences that go beyond parties and seafood.
A short ferry ride from Old Goa opens the doors to Divar Island, a sleepy haven where time slows down. Driving onto the single-lane roads flanked by marshes feels like stepping into another world. Temples from pre-Portuguese times, a small cemetery, and the Church of Our Lady of Compassion dot the landscape. Stop for high tea, take a leisurely stroll, and breathe in the calm vibes—Divar Island is serenity personified.
For those drawn to history and golden sunsets, Cabo de Rama in South Goa is a gem. This medieval hillfort, perched on the coast of Canacona, is one of Goa’s oldest forts. Wander along its ancient ramparts, soak in the breathtaking views, and imagine the lives that once revolved around these walls. Free entry and fewer tourists make this fort an unmissable escape into the past.
Nestled on a wooden hilltop in Old Goa, this quiet church goes almost unnoticed, but it offers one of the most spectacular sunsets in the state. Surrounded by pine trees and winding paths, the view of the Mandovi River and the town of Old Goa from the steps is mesmerising. This is a place to pause, reflect, and capture a memory that feels entirely your own.
Tucked away near Panjim, this beach radiates European charm. A winding path leads to a secluded stretch of white sand and clear blue waters, where locals and foreign tourists blend in a relaxed, tranquil setting. The narrow lane leading to the beach feels like a portal to a quaint Portuguese village, making every step there feel like a mini adventure.
No offbeat Goa list is complete without Fontainhas. This heritage quarter of Panjim, with its colourful houses, narrow lanes, and Portuguese architecture, feels like a living postcard. While wandering, discover Joseph Bar, a tiny, lively spot where locals unwind over fresh beer. The vintage vibe, quiet streets, and genuine Goan energy make it the perfect pitstop for travellers seeking authenticity.
For nature lovers, Galgibaga Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, is a pristine escape. Less crowded and lined with palm and coconut trees, it offers calm and space to soak in the sun and enjoy authentic Goan seafood. Not far off, Arvalem Caves and Waterfall present a mystical blend of mythology and nature. The nearby Shiva temple, cascading waterfall, and picturesque bridge create a spot perfect for photography and reflection.
Bambolim Beach, accessed via a hidden path near the Grand Hyatt, feels like your own private slice of coastline. The sunset here is unforgettable, with virtually no tourists around. Nearby, the Safa Masjid in Ponda stands in elegant solitude, its reflective tank, arches, and floral adornments a reminder of Goa’s diverse heritage. Visiting these spots lets you savour both natural beauty and architectural splendour without the crowds.
Goa during Diwali is a study in contrasts, celebratory chaos in the towns, tranquil isolation in hidden corners. These offbeat spots invite you to slow down, witness the festival in its local intensity, and experience a side of Goa that few discover. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, exploring heritage forts, or walking along secluded beaches, this Diwali weekend promises a Goa that feels personal, soulful, and endlessly photogenic.
1. When is Narakasur Chaturdashi celebrated in Goa?
It’s observed the day before Diwali, usually in October or November.
2. Which Goan towns are best for Narakasur festivities?
Mapusa, Margao, Panjim, and Bicholim host the most vibrant celebrations.
3. Are these offbeat spots accessible by car or public transport?
Most are reachable by car; some, like Divar Island, require a short ferry ride.
4. Do these locations get crowded during Diwali?
They’re far less crowded than popular beaches, perfect for a tranquil getaway.
5. What makes these offbeat spots special?
Secluded beaches, heritage forts, scenic sunsets, and authentic local culture.
