A tiny state in the Western Coast of India, Goa is surrounded by Maharashtra in the north, Karnataka in the south and east and the Arabian Sea flowing into its eastern part. A former part of the Portuguese Empire, it merged with India in 1961. The distinct Portuguese influence on the food, architecture, language and people can still be felt in every corner of Goa.

Some of the first things that come to our mind when we think about Goa are its beautiful beaches, warm waters, quaint little churches and thriving night-life. But, other than that, the state is also quite well-known for its adventurous side. Here are some of the high-adrenaline activities that will quench your adventurous spirit, if you’re planning a trip to Goa:

Water Skiing

Water Skiing is a popular adventure sport offered in the beaches of Calangute, Baga, Arossim, Mobor, etc. A pair of skies are put on by the skiers, which is then attached to a speedboat. The speedboat drags the skier in the sea while the skiers must maintain their balance. With a little bit of practice, it is an exhilarating ride.

Aqua Zorbing

Aqua Zorbing is a fun and wild activity for both children and adults. One needs to get into a giant inflatable clear balloon and then try to walk on water. Although maintaining one’s balance takes some effort, it is a really enjoyable and safe activity. Some hotels offer this activity as a part of their services and one can also do this in the Mayem Lake.

Hot Air Balloon Flight 

Sunrise Hot Air Balloon rides are really popular with Honeymoon couples. The high altitude offers mesmerising views of the coast and landscape of Goa, while the flight experience is one of a kind. One should always avail a trained ground crew to follow the path of the balloon till landing. South Goa is really popular for this activity. 

All-Terrain-Vehicle Biking

ATV biking or Quad biking through the jungles and spice gardens of Goa is a great experience, with the undulating landscape and naturally rough terrain providing a suitable track for these giant bikes. A group activity that can be enjoyed with big friends’ groups and also on family trips, ATV biking gives one an opportunity to see the natural beauty of Goa from close quarters.

Flyboarding

An adrenaline rush is guaranteed with this quirky activity in the Goan seas. A hover-board-like contraption is strapped to the rider’s feet and then connected via a water hose to a watercraft. The water is then forced into the Flyboard and it gets propelled up under pressure, thrusting the rider up to 49 feet in the air, or pushing the rider underwater upto 8 feet. Although it sounds quite complicated, it’s actually relatively easy to pick it up.

Parasailing

Parasailing is a favourite with families and couples because the difficulty level is quite low, compared to other water sports. Offered in beaches like Arambol, Baga, Mobor, etc., the parachute is attached to a winch board, from which sailors both take off and land. It offers great views of the sea in the months from October to May, when the sea is calmer.   

White Water Rafting

In the monsoon months when most other activities have an off-season, white water rafting is a great way of making up for the loss. The Mandovi River with its frothy waves provide a great sight for this group activity. A small training session and all kinds of safety equipment are available to train one for the 10-Km ride. 

No matter the prevalent joke of ‘Cancelled Goa Trips’, the seaside destination is still ever-present in the bucket list of every Indian, no matter which part of the country they may come from. The azure waters, the shiny golden sand of the beaches and the electric spirit of the place that one can easily feel in the air – all of this come together to make Goa a coveted holiday spot.

In March 2020, the entire country was put under a Lockdown in order to tackle the COVID 19 Pandemic that has been spreading throughout the world and wreaking havoc. But, as of July 2^nd, 2020, Goa has decided to open its borders to domestic tourists again. About 250 hotels have been granted permission to resume operations but they will have to follow the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), given by the State government. So if you’re planning on a trip to the coastal state, be sure to look up the rules and regulations.