1.

Heritage Forts

The small fishing village of Nerul, along the banks of the river Mandovi, is known for
Coco beach, its laid back beach shacks and a clutch of small restaurants. As you
cycle around you’ll spot a few Portuguese-style mansions scattered about the area.
Head across to Aguada plateau by cycle, from where you’ll be able to see Fort
Aguada overlooking the long unbroken beach belt of Candolim, Calangute and Baga.
Then make your way to the 450 year old Reis Magos fort, about three kilometres
from Fort Aguada.

2. Lakes and birds

Bird-watchers and nature lovers should try off-road cycling around Carambolim Lake.
You’ll enjoy the feel of fresh breezes ruffling your hair and revel in the verdant green
stretches around the lake while riding your cycle. The area is considered a bird-
watcher’s paradise so remember to bring your binoculars if you want to spot a rare
migratory bird or two

3. Coastline Beaches

Long-distance cyclists, especially those travelling south from Mumbai, will love this
route. Just follow the sideroads that parallel Goa’s coastline, from Querim at Goa’s
northern border, to Polem on the southern border. En route you’ll end up crossing
Charpora, Mandovi and Zuari rivers, three of Goa’s largest and most impressive
water bodies, by bridge or ferry. This route is one of the best ways to enjoy Goa’s
beach culture by staying overnight at the smaller beach resorts and homestays along
the way and sampling both local food and global dishes at beachshacks that catch
your eye. Catch the cool breezes from the Arabian Sea and if you feel adventurous,
try riding the hard-packed white sand beaches south of Vasco de Gama at low tide.

4. Wilderness Sanctuaries

For the most adventurous cyclists, a cycle route on sideroads through cooling forests
and past emerald green rice fields to one of several wilderness parks on the eastern
edge of Goa is just the thing. Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, with its milky white
Dudhsagar Falls, is an obvious choice. But, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary to the north
and Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary to the south are equally wonderful, less-known
destinations. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary has group accommodations, as well as a zoo
with snakes, cats, and animals native to Goa. Fall asleep to the sounds of a tiger’s
roar!

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