Curti is a small and green neighborhood in the city of Ponda. One of the main attractions in the city is the Sahakari Spice Farm, which is brimming with the bounty of nature. Since the year 1979, the farm has been transformed from partially cultivated and partially barren land to a thriving spice farm, owing to developments in farming techniques. The spices that one will find at this expansive organic farm are, cinnamon, cloves, pepper, cardamom, vanilla and nutmeg, among others. All the talk of spices making your mouth water? Not a problem, one can enjoy a delicious meal at the restaurant located on the farm. The food in the restaurant in served in clay pots and plates made from banana leaves. And that's not all it has to offer! The spice plantation offers entertainment such as folk dance performances like Dhalo, Fugdi and Jagor, elephant rides, and more.
Spread over nine acres of land, Ancestral Goa, also known as "Big Foot," is a first of its kind theme park and outdoor museum in India. It showcases a variety of artifacts that depict the journey and hardships in the past of rural Goa. From Anandachem Ghor (House of Happiness) to see the salt pans & coastal treasure, Ancestral Goa is a sojourn that will take you back in time. It has the honor of housing the largest laterite sculpture of Mirabai, the devotional poet and saint and also, the Big Foot Cross Museum that has on display thousands of crosses from all over the world. Ancestral Goa enlightens you about the fact that there is much more to Goa than just parties and beaches, Goa is a land of many mysteries and a multitude of color. Have fun exploring!
One of the most important forts in all of Goa, Fort Aguada is steeped in history. Located on one side of the shores of Candolim Beach, this fortress was built by the Portuguese to protect their kingdom from the Maratha and Dutch invaders. Strategically and ingeniously designed, the walls of the fort are huge with cannons attached to them. An interesting sight here is the spring that exists inside the fort, from where the sailors who landed in Goa drank water from. Also of particular note is the iconic lighthouse which served as a watchtower against impending marine dangers. Beneath the fort lies the Aguada Jail which was used to house prisoners who committed petty crimes.
The majestic Dudhsagar Falls are one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Originating out of the Mandovi River, the falls descends with a milk-like mist that gives this prime tourist destination its name, which literally means 'ocean of milk'. Its roar echos throughout the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park that encompasses the angelic-white gush. This site is ideal for those who love adventure hiking and trekking. The spectacular falls and the deep pool, Devil's Canyon, formed by the accumulated water at its base are a sight to behold especially when Monsoon at its peak. Though the undercurrents in the pool makes it perilous for swimmers, the beauty of the locale is enough to soothe your soul.