Discover a Different Side of Goa with This Heritage Guide
Discover the soulful side of Goa through art, festivals, heritage stays, and community traditions.
As we celebrated World Heritage Day this month, it’s time to step beyond Goan beaches and into the soul of the state through Goa Unseen — an Airbnb guidebook developed in collaboration with the Goa Tourism Department. This thoughtfully curated collection of homes and experiences celebrates Goa’s vibrant cultural heritage.
From centuries-old music and art forms to community-led festivals, the guidebook encourages travelers to see Goa not just as a beach destination, but as a thriving cultural landscape steeped in history.
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So if you’re planning your next trip to Goa, let this be your sign to look beyond the coastline and dive into these timeless experiences:
Celebrations of Culture
Three Kings Feast: A spiritual and cultural celebration in villages like Chandor and Cansaulim, commemorating the Biblical Magi with local processions and centuries-old rituals.
São João Feast: A joyful monsoon celebration where locals leap into wells and sing traditional songs—an exuberant expression of Goan spirit and cultural pride.
Where History Lives
Museum of Christian Art, Old Goa: Nestled within a centuries-old convent, this museum showcases Goa’s Indo-Portuguese legacy through sacred art, religious artifacts, and gilded treasures.
Goa Chitra Museum, Benaulim: Founded by artist and curator Victor Hugo Gomes, Goa Chitra spans over 1,17,000 square meters and houses over 4,000 artifacts preserving the region’s agrarian and cultural past.
Buddhist Caves of Lamgao and Rivona: Offbeat yet historically rich, these ancient rock-cut caves offer a glimpse into Goa’s early spiritual roots.
Community in Celebration
Bonderam Festival, Divar Island: Held annually on the fourth Saturday of August, this vibrant parade features traditional music, dancing, mock battles, and colorful floats.
Chikhal Kalo Festival: A playful mud festival celebrating ancient traditions through music and community rituals.
Shigmo Festival: Goa’s springtime cultural parade with folk dances, music, and dramatic floats depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and village life.
Goa Through a Creative Lens
Fundação Oriente Art Gallery, Panaji: Tucked into the Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, this gallery features contemporary and heritage-inspired works by Goan artists.
Azulejo Art at Velha Goa, Aquem: Discover beautiful hand-painted Portuguese-style ceramic tiles crafted by local artisans.
Fado & Mando at Madragoa, Panaji: Experience the soul of Goa through live performances of these musical traditions, brought to life by acclaimed Fadista Sonia Shirsat.
Tiatr – Goa’s Traditional Theatre: A beloved form of Konkani theatre blending music, drama, and social satire—offering insight into Goan life with heart and humor.
Experience a Heritage Stay with Airbnb
For your next Goan getaway, trade the ordinary for something truly special—like a stay at Vivenda Dos Palhacos, a lovingly restored 100-year-old Portuguese mansion in Majorda. With its vintage charm, sun-dappled pool, and warm hospitality, this boutique Airbnb is the perfect blend of comfort and cultural authenticity.
Simon, Airbnb host of 13 years at Vivenda Dos Palhacos, shares, “There’s something beautifully untrainable about Goan hospitality—it’s intuitive, heartfelt, and steeped in tradition. Vivenda Dos Palhacos is more than just a home; it’s part of the cultural tapestry of a South Goan village. From restored Portuguese architecture to heirloom furniture and communal meals, every corner tells a story. We don’t have signs or reception desks—just an open-door spirit that invites connection."
“Over the years, we’ve hosted artists, writers, and explorers drawn to Goa’s slower rhythm and soulful charm. Here, heritage isn’t just remembered—it’s lived every day."
Airbnb invites you to rediscover Goa—not just through its monuments, but through its music, festivals, art, and homes that carry its timeless legacy forward.
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