Forty one kilometres away from Goan capital, Panaji and two kilometres away from the longest beach Colva is Benaulim beach. Legend has it that this is the place where an arrow shot by Lord Parshuram, sixth incarnation of Vishnu landed. The arrow shifted back the hills hence forming the Konkan. The place was hence named Banavli (ban means arrow) and later got corrupted to Benaulim by Portuguese. The place is also special for Christians as it's the birth place of the venerable Father Joseph Vaz. If you wish to be at some place close to nature and totally untouched, than Benaulim is the place for you. Though it gets fairly crowded in evenings and weekends.
Things To See And Do
The best thing about Benaulim beach is that it is a rather undiscovered beach. Commercialization unlike other beaches hasn't set its foot here yet. The beach is close to Colva so in case you need to catch up with some nightlife, its just close by. You can also try your hand at fishing since its mainly a fishing beach. Or maybe incase you are one of those friendly kinds, just request some of the village folks and you might accompany them to the sea. Apart from sunbathing and getting yourself a nice tan, as you laze on the beach, go for swimming. Its actually more safe here than Colva.
Beach Shacks and Boat Rides
Like Colva, here also, though few in number you can get some great sea food in beach shacks. Apart from the seafood, you can also catch up with some water activity. A main attraction of this beach is the dolphin spotting trips. The trips are reasonably priced and chances of spotting dolphins fairly high. Also Benaulim is a village of gifted craftsmen. Their works adore not just churches but villas also. Carved rosewood furniture is the speciality of Benaulim. Drop by the village for some serious shopping.
Some Sightseeing
Church of St. John the Baptist
Situated atop the hill is the church of St John the Baptist. Situated beyond the village, this church is a classic example of Goan architecture. Built in 1581, the church has a mannerist frontage. The interiors are made out of unstained Italian marble. Feast of St John is celebrated here on the arrival of monsoon as a thanksgiving. Young men wear crown of leaves and tour the area for gifts. Benaulim also has a recently constructed church, Holy Trinity Church. It was built in 1992.
Water sports
Apart from boat rides, there are also options of parasailing, jet skiing and wind surfing available. Windsurfing though comparatively cheap is a tough activity. Only the proficient should try their hands.
No comments:
Post a Comment