Things To Do
in Curti
Curti is a small town/village in Goa's interior known for its laid-back, village atmosphere and proximity to Ponda’s spice plantations and historic temples. It sits amid coconut groves and paddy fields, offering a quieter contrast to Goa’s busy beaches while still being within easy reach of Panaji and the coastal belt. The local culture is a blend of Konkani traditions with Hindu and Christian influences, visible in festivals, food, and architecture.
Curti is a practical base for travelers who want rural Goan life, short nature excursions, and easy access to central Goa amenities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, where you can admire its stunning architecture. Afterward, stroll through the vibrant local market, where vendors display colorful textiles and fresh produce. Take a moment to enjoy a traditional Goan breakfast at a nearby café, savoring dishes like poha and chai.
In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Indo-Portuguese Museum, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of Goa. Next, visit the picturesque Fontainhas neighborhood, known for its charming narrow streets and colorful colonial houses. Grab lunch at a local eatery, enjoying a plate of spicy vindaloo or xacuti.
As the sun sets, head to Miramar Beach to watch the golden hues of the sky reflecting on the water. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline, feeling the gentle waves lap at your feet. Conclude your day with a beachfront dinner, indulging in fresh seafood while listening to the soothing sound of the ocean.
Kick off your day with an exhilarating jeep safari to the majestic Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The journey through dense forests and rugged terrain offers a glimpse of Goa's stunning natural beauty. Upon arrival, marvel at the breathtaking sight of cascading water and take a refreshing dip in the cool pool below.
After enjoying the falls, relish a picnic lunch in the surrounding lush greenery, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend your afternoon trekking along the scenic trails, discovering the rich flora and fauna of the region. Capture stunning photographs of the falls and the vibrant landscape to cherish your experience.
As the day winds down, return to your accommodation to refresh and unwind. Once you're ready, enjoy a traditional Goan dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like fish curry and rice. Relax with a drink while sharing stories of your adventure at Dudhsagar Falls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee / Tea | $1-3 |
| 🛌Budget guesthouse (per night) | $15-35 |
| 🚕Short taxi/auto rickshaw ride | $1.5-6 |
| 🍺Local beer (bar) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic village atmosphere with easy access to nature and spice plantations
- Affordable food and accommodation with friendly local hospitality
- Good base for exploring central Goa’s cultural sites, wildlife reserves and nearby beaches
- Limited nightlife and amenities within the village—most entertainment requires driving to coastal towns
- Monsoon season can restrict activities and make some roads difficult
- Fewer direct tourist services (tour operators, ATMs) than in larger towns
- "Namaskar" - Hello / Greetings
- "Dhanyavaad / Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kitna hua? (Hindi)" - How much is this?
- "Kahaan hai ...? (Hindi)" - Where is ...?
- "Excuse me / Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Curti
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic rural Goan scenes of coconut palms, rice paddies and colorful houses—best at dawn or dusk for soft light.
Close-up shots of spice trees, plantation workers and textured landscapes; guided tours often allow good access for photos.
Architectural details, ritual scenes and festival activity provide rich photographic subjects—respect any restrictions on photographing worshippers.
Reflections and rural life along streams and rivers around Curti offer tranquil compositions—early morning mist can add atmosphere.
Food in Curti
Curti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy, coconut-based curry made with fresh local fish and served with rice; available at village homes, small restaurants in Ponda and most coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Spicy, vinegar-forward dish with Portuguese roots; a hearty option found at family restaurants and popular Goan eateries in the region.
A rich, complex curry made with roasted spices and coconut—try it with chicken or mushrooms at traditional Goan restaurants in nearby towns.
A layered Goan dessert, best sampled at bakeries and cafes in Panaji and local sweet shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market selling fresh vegetables, spices, local fruits and occasional street snacks — great for picking up kokum, fresh chilies and spice blends.
One of the best places nearby to watch fishermen sell the day's catch and to buy fresh prawns, kingfish and other seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples and villages—cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.
A respectful 'Namaste' or handshake is appropriate; be polite when asking to photograph people and accept refusals gracefully.
Respect religious customs and temple rules, and avoid loud behavior during rituals or in village areas.
While Goa is relaxed about alcohol, public drunkenness is frowned upon in residential and village areas—keep behavior considerate.
Safety
Tipping in Curti
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; in restaurants 5–10% is common if service is good, small tips or rounding up for drivers and guides is normal.
Cash is widely used in villages—carry Indian Rupees for small purchases. Cards and UPI/digital wallets are accepted at larger hotels, restaurants and shops in nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often in the high 20s–mid 30s °C; carry water, wear light clothing and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Heavy rains bring lush green landscapes and closed or limited access to some trails and waterfalls; road conditions can be challenging—expect frequent showers and occasional flooding.
Dry, cooler and the most comfortable time to visit with daytime temperatures in the low 20s–high teens °C; ideal for outdoor activities, festivals and beach visits.
Curti at Night
Hiking in Curti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trek (or jeep/railside route) to the famous multi-tiered waterfall on the Goan–Karnataka border; best visited in post-monsoon months for safe access and strong water flow.
Trails through deciduous forest with opportunities to see wildlife, birds and small streams; guided treks recommended for unfamiliar routes.
Gentler trails and a small zoo/park area good for family-friendly hikes and birdwatching within easy driving distance from Curti.
Airports
How to reach Curti by plane.
The main airport serving Goa, near Vasco da Gama; expect a 30–60 minute drive to Curti depending on traffic. Taxis and car rentals are available at the terminal.
Newer airport in North Goa serving many domestic and some international flights; typically a 45–75 minute drive to Curti depending on route and traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority are native Konkani speakers engaged in agriculture, small business and services; strong local cultural traditions persist.
Goa’s population features both Hindu and Christian (largely Catholic) communities, each maintaining distinct festivals, cuisine and religious sites.
Curti sees domestic tourists and occasional international visitors who use it as a quieter base near central Goa.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is very popular in Goa with local clubs, youth matches and a passionate fan base.
India’s national obsession—local grounds and informal street cricket games are common.
Jet-skiing, parasailing and banana boat rides are popular at coastal resorts and beaches a short drive away.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Curti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian food is easy to find—many cafés, temples and local eateries serve vegetable curries, dal, rice and vegetarian thalis. Ask for no fish sauce or ghee if you have specific preferences.
Vegan options exist but can be limited in small village restaurants—request coconut-based curries and rice. Gluten-free choices are typically rice-based; confirm preparation methods in advance at restaurants.
Spices, coconut and peanuts are commonly used. If you have severe allergies, carry a translation card explaining your condition and check with cooks in advance.