The land of unlimited fun and thrill, Goa is among the most sought-after party destinations in India. It may be the smallest state in the country but there is a plethora of things to explore here. Every year, millions of domestic and international travellers throng this state to indulge in its party spirit, explore its splendid beaches and soak in its quaint colonial charm. Its 130-km coastline is famed all over the world for hosting several cultural fests and exciting sports. There are also many heritage sites that can be explored during a vacation here. Se Cathedral, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, St. Cajetan Church and the Goa State Museum are a few to name.

Goa boasts a tropical climate and its altitude ranges from 0 to over 1000 metres at the highest point in the Sahyadri Hills. This diverse landscape makes it apt for a variety of adventure activities. Both terrestrial, as well as water-based sports, can be tried here. From trekking and Hot Air Ballooning to parasailing and knee-boarding, there are myriad options to choose from. Tourists can also try jet skiing, snorkelling, angling and rafting. Besides, this enthralling state is also famed as a hub for scuba diving and sailing, which is a great sport in case you want to explore the underwater world. Besides the aforementioned activities, kayaking is also becoming quite popular among visitors and locals.

Like every sport, some basic things are required for kayaking too. The most primary is a kayak and a double-bladed paddle. While kayaks with one cockpit are traditional, you can also opt for a two-cockpit kayak to go for tandem kayaking. Since regular clothes can cause inconvenience, a wet or a dry suit should be used. The ideal kind of suit can be decided depending on the kayaking conditions. Other than that, paddlers also need safety equipment like a life jacket and helmet. Even when you are kayaking in low rapids, safety equipment is a must for every paddler.

The vast Arabian Sea, a number of rivers and serene backwaters, present unlimited kayaking opportunities in this western state. The best thing is that while trying this sport here, you get to explore some unspoilt beaches as well. There are myriad places here where you can go to try this activity. The waters near Bambolim Beach are famous among paddlers. The Nerul and Zuari Rivers, and the Sal backwaters are also apt to experience the adrenaline-rush of kayaking. These places may be popular, but you can practically take your kayak and paddle anywhere in Goa and enjoy the sport.  

Group kayaking in Goa is a great option for you to discover the shores of this territory with your friends and family. The joy of a vacation grows manifold when experienced with loved ones and you can take yours on this thrilling jaunt. The kayaking adventure will introduce you to the wildlife of Goa, get you past narrow channels, through thick forests, and take you to isolated beaches. If you want a fun-filled day of kayaking with friends and capture the picture-perfect landscape, then this western state is absolutely perfect.

ITINERARY:

Chorao Island Excursion
Group kayaking in Goa adventure begins in the small town of Penha De Franca, Bardez. Starting from a traditional sluice gate; paddle your way to the famous Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, situated on the western tip of Chorao Island. Kayaking through narrow channels amidst a thick forest of mangroves, capture sights of fascinating birds. The aroma of exotic flowers and chirpings of birds will be a relaxing treat for your senses. The criss-cross channels of this sanctuary are perfect for kayaking. Sitting in your comfortable sit-on-top kayaks, admire the unspoilt beauty of the park. After exploring the sanctuary for 2 to 3 hours, retreat to the starting point to end this Chorao excursion.

Aguada Ahoy
You can also start from Nerul Bridge, the filming location of Matt Damon’s action movie The Bourne Supremacy, paddling towards Fort Aguada. Paddle slowly, admiring the unparalleled beauty of mangrove forests. Going past Nerul Bridge, you can also capture sights of astonishing sculptures at the banks of the river. After 2 to 3 hours, return to your starting point.    

Pequeno Island Encounter
You also have the opportunity to explore an island near the shores of Goa. Starting from Baina Beach, near the Vasco-da-Gama city, kayak to the Pequeno Island, also known as Bat Island. It is a hub for many adventure sports like snorkelling. Paddle around the island and rest for some time at a small secluded beach. Later, come back after 3-4 hours.

Croc Challenge
Goa is home to various species of animals and one of them is crocodile. These ferocious creatures can be seen in the narrow canals of the Mandovi River, and that is where you are going now. Kayaking in a tributary of the Mandovi River you can see these reptiles sunbathing at the shores. You do not need to be afraid as during the day time, these cold-blooded predators are never aggressive and keep on soaking the sun as you pass by them in your kayaks. No need to worry, since there has not been even a single case of a crocodile attack in Goa in the last 30 years. So what could be a better place to capture these fascinating scaled-back creatures in their natural habitat? A safety boat will be by your side at all times. This croc excursion will last for about 2 to 3 hours.