1. Arvalem Caves Protected by the Archaeological Society of India, the rock-cut chambers are believed to have sheltered the Pandavas during their 12-year-long exile. You can also visit the picturesque Arvalem Waterfall nearby.

2. Big Foot The brainchild of local artist Maendra Jocelino Araujo Alvares is this unique museum that showcases the intangible heritage of Goa. There is a 14-foot-long rock carving of Sant Mirabai here, said to have been created by the curator in just a month.

3. Bamanbudo Waterfall A gem of a waterfall, the enchanting Bamanbudo spring lies nestled deep inside the lush forests of the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary in Canacona.

4. Mayem Lake A picturesque lake located in the lap of Bicholim’s hilly countryside, this emerald-hued lake offers an array of watersports, such as water gun boating and kayak Polo, to indulge in.

5. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Just upriver from Panaji, it is home to a small number of crocodiles and over 100 species of birds — from the ubiquitous egrets and herons to the colourful kingfishers and drongos.

6. Fort Tiracol Fort Tiracol was constructed in the 17th century by Raja Bahadur Khem Sawant Bhonsle. Today, it is a heritage hotel, a Baroque-style church with centuries-old history.

7. Netravali Bubble Lake Popularly known as Budbus or Budbudyachi Tali, the interesting lake always has bubbles popping on its surface. Strangely enough, they also appear to respond to certain sounds and rise faster if you clap!

8. Chorla Ghat Extremely rich in biodiversity of both flora and fauna, a trek through the wilderness of Chorla Ghat’s Swapnagandha Valley will take you to witness the crystal-like waters of the magnificent Vazra Sakla Falls.

9. Cumbarjua Canal If you would like to explore the backwaters, then a boat ride through the Cumbarjua Canal — a 15 km crocodile-inhabited canal — that connects the two main rivers of Goa, the Mandovi and the Zauri, is a must-try.

10. Tambdi Surla A 12th-century Shiva temple tucked away in the forested folds of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Tambdi Surla, is an architectural marvel. It is built without any binding between the stones in a manner that keeps the temple cool even during the summer.