BETUL

State: Goa
Flavors of a Traditional Fishing Village

Life centers around fishing and coir production in this rural haven on the estuary of the Sai river. Also sample the gourmet Goan delights while you’re there.
Away from the bustle of the main tourist routes in south Goa is a gem of a village that any discerning visitor would love to reach. This is Betul, on the estuary of the Sal river where it flows into the Arabian Sea.
Life in the village and coir production, beneath attractive canopy of coconut palms, banana, jackfruit and papaya. A jetty from the water’s edge leads to a Gail-festooned cluster of fishing boats, each brightly coloured. When the catch comes in, the little harbour buzzes with the happy sound of fisherfolk returning to unload their vessels. A closer look at the estuary is possible by walking along the track that leads towards it. Picture will lift the spirits.
The best time to visit Betul is October to March, though the end of September would be a novel idea, well before the tourist swell. Combination are available aplenty, there being many medium-distance Goan attraction in the north and interior of the state. Accommodation is best arranged in one of the lodges, not far from the water.

Sorprtel…pork vindaloo…xacutti…chicken cafreal…! Need anything more be said about the gourmet delights in Betul ? The answer is an unqualified yes! For there is also apa de camarao, fish (with masala sauce), prawn balchao and ambot tik, not forgetting stuffed crabs and kishmar! But beware, for this is only the main course. The dessert will include the celebrated bebinca, doldol, doce and, if you haven’t burst by then, also some bolinhas and unde slapped with mangada. There is one thing the visitor will drop down to with certainty after such a feast… and that is an afternoon siesta. When the sun is lower, and softer, one may saunter down the promenade where village folk look out from their balcaos. Later, in the evening, there will be something very special in the church service followed by socializing with the village residents.

FAST FACTS

GETTING THERE:

• By Air : Nearest airport is at Dabolim(30 km away)
• By Rail : Nearest railhead is Margao
• By Road : Betul is connected with South Goa to towns.

WHERE TO STAY:

Lodges on the waterfront or alternate accommodation in other South Goa destinations

More Tourist places to visit in Goa