Embarking on a road trip with family and friends is an excellent way to bond and create lasting memories. Our recent Road Trip from Hyderabad to Goa via Kolhapur provided us with exactly that.
Day 1: Hyderabad to Kolhapur
Our journey began in the bustling city of Hyderabad, known for its rich history and delicious biryani. With our car packed and spirits high, we set off early in the morning. The drive was smooth, and the changing landscapes kept us entertained. By late afternoon, we reached Kolhapur, famous for its vibrant culture and the revered Mahalaxmi Temple.
Mahalaxmi Temple Visit
During our trip, a memorable experience was our visit to the Mahalaxmi Temple in Kolhapur. Despite arriving late in the evening, the temple was bustling with visitors, likely due to it being the weekend. The organization within the temple was somewhat disordered, as there was no official special ticket for darshan. Nevertheless, we were able to catch a glimpse of the deity for a brief moment, although it came at a price. The temple management's lack of transparency in the recycling of offerings like clothes and coconuts was evident. On a brighter note, the significant presence of young individuals indicated a strong continuation of religious traditions among the newer generations.
Day 2: Kolhapur to Goa via Amboli Ghat
The drive from Kolhapur to Goa was nothing short of spectacular. One of the most memorable parts of this journey was passing through Amboli Ghat. The winding roads, lush greenery, and breathtaking views made it a truly scenic route. We took our time, stopping at various viewpoints to soak in the beauty and capture some stunning photographs.
Amboli Waterfall
We made a delightful stop at Amboli Waterfall. The sight of the cascading water against the backdrop of lush green mountains was simply mesmerizing. With the clear sky above, the entire landscape was bathed in vibrant shades of green, making it a picture-perfect moment. We took some time to soak in the serene environment, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated by the cool mist from the waterfall.
Arrival in Goa and Stay at Ludo House
Upon our arrival in Goa, it was already late at night. We checked in at a charming Airbnb accommodation named Ludo House in North Goa. This two-story house, featuring three well-kept bedrooms, fit well within our budget and was ideal for our group consisting of two pairs of adults and four young adults aged between 16 and 22 years. The onset of rain and a thunderstorm welcomed us, prompting us to remain indoors and order food from a nearby restaurant. Despite the inclement weather, the cosy atmosphere of Ludo House ensured our stay was enjoyable. Shabbir, our attentive butler from Madinapur, West Bengal, looked after us diligently, serving us morning and evening tea, along with a delightful breakfast of omelette and bread.
Day 3: Exploring Goa
Anjuna Beach Flea Market
Our first destination for the day was the famous Anjuna Beach Flea Market. However, we soon discovered that the market is only held on Wednesdays. Since it was a Tuesday, we missed out on the vibrant market scene. For anyone planning to visit, make sure to schedule your trip to Anjuna Beach on a Wednesday to experience the eclectic mix of stalls, live music, and unique finds.
Lunch at Souza Lobo, Calangute Beach
Without being discouraged, we made our way to Calangute Beach for lunch. Our choice was Souza Lobo, a restaurant steeped in history since 1932. The appeal of this establishment not only in its delectable cuisine but also in its picturesque seaside setting. While savouring our meal, we were captivated by the breathtaking sight of the azure sky blending with the ocean. As regular patrons of Souza Lobo since 2016, we can attest to its consistently excellent food and ambience. Despite the relatively high prices, it is a worthwhile indulgence, particularly for an early lunch or brunch during your time in North Goa.
Afternoon at Calangute Beach
After our delightful lunch at Souza Lobo, we decided to explore the water sports at Calangute Beach. Unfortunately, our experience was marred by persistent agents hounding us, which spoiled the afternoon. Feeling frustrated, we ultimately decided to drop our plans for the day and head back.
Evening at Fat Fish
That same evening, we went to a local restaurant named Fat Fish. Even though it rained heavily most of our way there, the cosy atmosphere and wide selection of tasty dishes compensated for the initial letdown. The rainy evening brought a special charm to our dining adventure, turning it into a memorable highlight.
Day 4: Exploring Divar Island
Ferry Ride to Divar Island
After a leisurely breakfast, we set off for Divar Island. The journey itself was memorable as we ferried across with our vehicles. The ferry ride was smooth and offered beautiful views of the surrounding waters. The cost was minimal, just Rs. 10 per car, making it an affordable adventure.
Exploring the Island
Once on the island, we found that it was primarily home to churches and temples. While there weren’t many engaging activities, the serene environment and lush green roads made the drive enjoyable. The narrow, winding paths through the island’s greenery provided a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of mainland Goa.
Lunch at Thalassa
Following our exploration of Divar Island, we proceeded to Thalassa, a well-known restaurant situated close to Anjuna Beach, right beside a charming body of water. Thalassa is celebrated for its exceptional European dishes and lively atmosphere. We ensured that we set aside ample time to savour the delectable food and the stunning surroundings. Here are some of the dishes we tried at Thalassa restaurant.
Day 5: Water Sports at Vagator Beach
Pre-booking with Atlantis
We made a wise decision to pre-book our water sports activities through Atlantis. The transaction was fair and transparent, and we received exactly what we had booked. This hassle-free experience set the tone for an exciting day ahead.
Water Sports at Vagator Beach
Upon arriving at Vagator Beach, we were greeted by our water sports guide, Malesh. He was excellent, ensuring that our group received priority for all the activities as planned. The beach itself was beautiful, and the clear skies added to the perfect setting for a day of adventure. We indulged in a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. Each activity was thrilling and well-organized, thanks to Malesh and the Atlantis team. The safety measures were top-notch, allowing us to enjoy the activities without any worries. The highlight of the day was the exhilarating experience of parasailing, where we got a bird’s-eye view of the stunning coastline.
Tattoo Experience at Moksha Tattoo, Calangute
Our last activity in Goa was a visit to Moksha Tattoo in Calangute. We had planned our appointment well in advance, and upon arrival, we were greeted by three senior artists, including the talented junior artist Waghela. The atmosphere was welcoming and professional, setting the stage for a memorable experience. Each of us received a customized tattoo, designed on the spot to reflect our individual preferences and styles. The artists at Moksha Tattoo were incredibly skilled and attentive, ensuring that each tattoo was unique and meaningful. Getting a tattoo at Moksha Tattoo was a special way to commemorate our trip. The quality of the artwork and the dedication of the artists made it an unforgettable experience.
Day 6: Return Journey: Goa to Hyderabad
Breakfast at Stonewood, Amboli Valley
Our return journey began with a hearty breakfast at Stonewood in Amboli Valley. The place offered great food, and we treated ourselves to double portions of each item. This strategy worked well, as it kept us full and eliminated the need for a lunch stop.
Refreshments at Jayneela, Sangola
Our next stop was Jayneela in Sangola for some refreshments. It was a quick and refreshing break before we continued our journey.
Dinner at Hotel Khansaheb Chacha, Sholapur
Later in the evening, we stopped at Hotel Khansaheb Chacha in Sholapur. We ordered a family pack of biryani, which turned out to be a great choice. The food was delicious and provided a satisfying end to our day of travel.
Embarking on a road trip is like setting out on a journey of discovery, where every mile travelled unveils a new experience waiting to be embraced. The open road stretches out before you, offering a canvas of endless possibilities and adventures. Each road trip is a unique chapter in the story of your life, filled with unexpected twists and turns that shape your memories and leave an indelible mark on your soul.
If you or anyone is planning a similar trip in future, this article may give you some useful input.
Useful links: (Not in any particular order)
Amboli Ghat & Waterfall: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EhyGRUCNqSx9iFHN9
Divar Island: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cNcYCH3gMVcEz3J58
Hotel Jayneela: https://maps.app.goo.gl/42nNYaEymX5KSqpp9
Souza Lobo: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ukHW6cZ67z5B8dBh9
Khansab Chacha: https://maps.app.goo.gl/k3HUSYCwUujPLZ4PA
Ludo Villas by Jaqk Holidays: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7QuPN4vxo4EHvpHz7
Atlantis Water Sports: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wfGXaQtmp2FsG93S6
Moksha Tattoo Studio: https://maps.app.goo.gl/quRJNvXvNxggnCPx8
Stone Wood, Amboli Valley: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FLrSXHGnzjNFqupf6
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