Spice is king in Goa, and now, you can step into the culture and history of this remarkable state and experience the wonder of spice plantations in Goa for yourself. There are plenty of spices grown in Goa, including cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, ginger, turmeric, basil, pepper, and nutmeg, so it’s not surprising that their food is also famous for being delicious and savory. This guide will walk you through some of the top Goa spice plantations and offer other handy hints about traveling in this culturally rich area.
Goa is a state that’s steeped in history. For many years during its history, Goa was a Portuguese colony, and reminders of this colonization remain today, including citizens who speak Portuguese, and other residents who practice Christianity. Many visitors to the state find Goa’s multiculturalism to be an appealing aspect of this area, but there’s plenty more to love about Goa.
During Portuguese rule, new spices were introduced to Goa, like cashew nuts, chili peppers, and other spices that all thrived in the lush, tropical climate. To begin with, these spices were traded around the world, but eventually, they became a thriving part of Goa’s local trade and agriculture, and have been tied to the area ever since. Now, many tourists flock to the area to taste the spices and traditional dishes of Goa firsthand.
Along with Goa’s historical spice farms, the area is rich in natural beauty. Many travelers set themselves up on one of Goa’s many stunning beaches, where they can indulge and relax. Others travel to Goa looking for adventure, like those who engage in white water river rafting, trekking, and hiking. Another highlight in the area is Goa’s waterfalls, many of which are easily accessible from the major towns.
When considering a visit to Goa, it’s important to pick the right time of year. Most visitors will exclude the summer months, as Goa is known for its heat during April and May, and opt for a stay during the monsoon season (June to September), or outside of this season when the weather is still quite agreeable. Once you’ve decided when you want to visit Goa, it’s time to explore some of the area’s top spice plantations. Here are some options for plantations that will help get you started on your Goa spice farm tour:
Start your spice adventures in Goa at Sahakari Spice Farm. This vast spice plantation offers visitors a thorough introduction to spice production in the area. Visitors can step into the farm’s vast plantation of organically grown spices and even sample the fruits of its labor, as delicious and beautifully spiced foods are served to tourists. This farm also has elephants living on it, and guests can decide whether they’d like to partake in activities that center around these majestic animals.
Sahakari Spice Farm is also famous for its commitment to sustainability, as the farm beautifully blends modern farming practices, like using sprinklers for irrigation, with historical practices, like traditional water harvesting. These practices significantly contribute to water conservation on the farm and ensure sustainability on Sahakari Spice Farm. Guided plantation tours are the best option for visitors to this farm as helpful guides will impart their vast knowledge to guests, and better immerse them in the vast history of spice production.
Sahakari Spice Farm is located in Ponda, North Goa.
Nandanvan Spice Farm promises a sensory experience like no other. This 200-acre spice farm is surrounded by the lush beauty of Goa, which is complemented by the warm hospitality of its staff. There’s plenty to see at the Nandanvan Spice Farm as visitors make their way through guided tours where they can see and learn all about the many spices that are grown in the area. Another fun stop at the farm is the heritage house. This space takes visitors through the history of Nandanvan Spice Farm and acts as a museum that showcases antique utensils that were once used on the farm.
Also featured is an authentic Goan meal. This meal helps to introduce visitors to the taste, smells, and textures of Goan cuisine, using farm-fresh ingredients and traditionally grown spices for an out-of-this-world sensory experience that will also fill your stomach. Also worthy of note is that local artisans often work in the area, and showcase their stunning handicrafts for visitors, which are also available as souvenirs.
Nandanvan Spice Farm is located in Kodar, in North Goa.
Step into the tropical luxury of Pascoal Farm, and indulge in this unique Goa spice farm tour. This award-winning spice farm got its start in 1982, and since then, it’s expanded from its small beginnings into a vast spice farm that showcases a huge collection of exotic plants. Pascoal Farm is ideal for a Goa spice farm visit as not only is it home to plenty of spices, but this farm also showcases several thousand varieties of plants, including medicinal offerings and tropical fruits, making this farm well worth a visit.
Spread across 50 acres, there’s plenty to see at Pascoal Farm, and thanks to the helpful and knowledgeable guides, visitors will learn all about the sustainable cultivation practices the farm uses, along with information about the growing process, harvesting, and more. This location is often used as a spot for weddings and celebrations, so visitors who are planning a wedding ceremony in Goa, or another celebration, may want to use Pascoal Farm as a location for these events.
Pascoal Farm is located in Ponda, in North Goa.
Sharvraj Eco Farms is more than a spice farm, it’s an adventure that’s just waiting to happen. While Sharvraj Eco Farms is a sprawling, organic eco-farm, the main attraction is Goa AquaWorld. Goa AquaWorld at Sharvraj Eco Farms is a water park and an amusement park, all set against the lush background of Goa’s natural beauty.
Parents who are searching for activities to keep their kids happy will love Goa AquaWorld, which has plenty of activity options to choose from, including water slides, pools, rope bridges, log swings, a zipline, and much more. Special packages are available for visitors to choose from, and travelers should also note that food upgrades are available. These food upgrades provide visitors with an array of delicious options and are a great way to sample delicious Goan cuisine.
Sharvraj Eco Farms is located in Karapur, Goa.
Nature lovers should not miss a trip to Tanshikar Spice Farm. This award-winning spice plantation is found within the lush rainforest of the Western Ghats and sits on about 40 acres of land. Visitors to the area can set out on their own adventures and discover the wonders of the area through nature treks, and birdwatching trips.
For those who are looking to settle in and relax, these travelers can seek out the stunning waterfalls in the area and enjoy bathing under their waters. When it comes to spice cultivation, there’s plenty to learn at Tanshikar Spice Farm, as visitors can see how this farm manages its spice, fruit, bees, and other crops during their stay. With overnight and day packages offered and plenty of tasty treats available for purchase, there’s lots to look forward to when you visit Tanshikar Spice Farm.
Tanshikar Spice Farm is located near Netravli, Goa.
Indulge in the long history of the Savoi Spice Plantation. This historical plantation has been in operation for about 200 years and has been open to the public since 1985. Since that time, Savoi Spice Plantation has cultivated spices, fruits, and more. Spread across 100 acres, this stunning plantation boasts lush views and a variety of bird species, making it the perfect stop for birdwatching enthusiasts, as well.
At night, guests can expect to be entertained by local dances and share in the folklore of the area, all while sampling delicious, traditional Goan cuisine. As an added touch, dishes are served in traditional earthenware pots and others are wrapped in banana leaves, which helps to make this a Goa spice garden visit that travelers won’t soon forget.
Savoi Spice Plantation is located near Savoi Verem, Goa.
Tropical Spice Plantation gives a sensory experience you won’t soon forget. Tropical Spice Plantation is one of Goa’s oldest plantations and offers visitors pristine views of the local flora. Hospitable, knowledgeable guides take visitors through all the spices grown at Tropical Spice Plantation, including nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, chilies, and more. Along with spices, there’s plenty more growing at this plantation, like tropical trees, and tropical fruits, like star fruit, jackfruit, bananas, and papayas.
You might also catch a peek at some local wildlife, including kingfishers as they swoop and dive while trying to catch their prey, and playful monkeys as they glide from tree to tree. After the tour is completed, guests will be invited to try some local cuisine in a gorgeous, open-air restaurant. With plenty of food options to choose from, visitors are sure to be impressed by the array of tastes offered at Tropical Spice Plantation.
Tropical Spice Plantation is located in is located in Ponda, in North Goa.
Spice is an important aspect of life in Goa, and you can honor this tradition while visiting the many spice plantations in Goa. Let your senses guide you, and enjoy the lush beauty, hospitable people, and culinary history of this thrilling area.
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