Danny FernandesIt will not be irrational if we associate North Goa to be the ‘HEART and South Goa to be the ‘SOUL’ of Goa. North and South Goa have their own unique identity in the form of cuisines, architecture, beaches, culture, and musical oeuvre so much so that each scores almost identical when it comes to tourist footfalls. North Goa is heavily inclined towards Hindu cuisines whereas the south gravitates towards catholic cuisines due to the colonial influences. But there are pockets of dominance where the Indo-Portuguese cuisines and culture score high at many places in North Goa like Bardez and Tiswadi talukas and vice versa of the Hindu cuisine and cultural dominance in places like Quepem and Canacona talukas. Hence it will not be wrong to state Goa as a land of myriads cross sections where cultural aspects of a particular region are present in the other.
As a tourist well-versed in all the cultural nuances of different regions of the world, you have finally landed on the Goan coast and looking for some adventure and unending experiences. After touring the state breaches, forts, and architectural wonders, it’s obvious to scout for some gastronomic delights at renowned high-end restaurants and beach corners.
But when it comes to shopping, South Goa scores equally high as North Goa in street markets, high-end stores, and retail shops. Shopping in South Goa is a shopper’s delight due to choc-o-block stores dishing out imported wares, locally sourced items and handmade handcrafted products of pan-Indian origin. South Goa’s shopping market comes alive with impunity right from dawn at 10 am till dusk at 6 pm. As a tourist, you will wonder about the timing restrictions.
People in Goa are loving, free-spirited, and easygoing so there will not be any hassle with regard to timings for a tourist. But for the adrenaline junkies, there are night markets, flea and beach markets where you can barter till 12 am onwards. Coming back to the shopping centers in South Goa, you will never be disappointed as it has the best for both the worlds – tourists as well as the locals.
Here we bring to you a curated list of the best shopping places and markets to shop leisurely in South Goa at your heart’s content.
Gandhi Market
A staple and famous market for yesteryear generations of the ’60s to ’80s, this market is home to a plethora of locally made and sourced goods and items all made with love. Right from clothing, household items, handmade products, and baskets to electronic and jewelry stores, you will find all right next to the other jostling to have your attention. This market is unique in the sense it is the oldest market in South Goa and Goa along with Margao municipal market which still retains its old-world charm, nostalgia, and prestige. Here, you will find shop names with Portuguese origins like Casa Naik, Casa Braganza, etc, which depict the colonial vestiges and remnants prevalent till now. Earlier, this market traded only fruits and vegetables but with time’s vigor, it saw a drastic transformation with shops selling customized shoes, modern clothing, designer bags, and so forth.
Palolem Beach Market
A market that retains its hippie vibes and free-flowing spirit, Palolem Beach remains a shopper’s secret bet for bargaining. Here, trinkets, caps, jewelry, magnets, embroidered clothing, bandanas, wrist bands, terracotta, and other large assortments of items are bartered every moment of the day with a large crowd in attendance.
Colva Beach Market
A haggler’s paradise and a bargaining and thrifting hunt, Colva Beach ticks all the boxes when it comes to adventure and fun. Apart from shopping, you can also indulge in gastronomic flavors and aromas right at the beachside. Colva Beach is one of the most famous beach in south goa along with Benaulim, Varca, and Palolem and you will find tourist thronging to this beach haven round the year. If you are the one who likes all things traditional and local then this market in South Goa is just for you. Immerse yourself in the traditional charm, local flavors and unmatched treasures in this southern jewel of Goa. Buy from a range of memorable items like souvenirs, trinkets, handmade sarongs, desi jewelry, antique items, and so forth to carry home a treasured collection to cherish.
Golden Heart Emporium
If you are a bookworm or a bibliophile, then you can do your book shopping at this reputed book market in south goa. Right from fiction, non-fiction, history, medicine, up to children’s books are all available here at reasonable bargains. Don’t forget to pick some books on Goan history too for stacking in your book closet.
Margoa Municipal Market
Unwind yourself like the locals at this famous laid-back market in South Goa. Stroll at a leisurely pace and soak in a ‘susegado’ ambiance (a Portuguese term used to denote a relaxed and easy-going mannerism) along with the locals. You can buy original, genuine & natural kitchen condiments, and grounded spices along with customized teak wood & rosewood furniture at this famous market. Digging deeper into this market can unravel a lot of hidden charms like antique heritage, history, and cultural memorabilia.
Jaali
A place offering versatile, handcrafted curious, and handmade products is a must-visit if you want to take a few home earthy collections.
A few outliers: Indulge in a riot of fun and flavors at these other frequented spots
Local Roadside Taverns
Old and rustic eateries serving mostly liqueur, taverns or tavernas were the must-go spots for tipplers right from the colonial times. Indulge in a peg or two to release your pent-up feelings and unwind at your own sweet time. The beauty of these holes in the wall type bars was in the antique items spread all over which were a delight to watch. Some items date back to the colonial times and are still handy. A few tavernas are still operational and can be accessed in the heart of south goa.
Quepem, Patnem & Salcette Market
A triad famous for souvenirs, curious, and local produce. Shopping at these three vibrant markets of South Goa will be a treasured memory to take back home. You can also savor goan snacks here which will give you a feel of the authentic, olden goa.
Goan Farmers Market
Based in a house at Navelim, Goa, this market is famous for organic, sustainable produce for the eco-conscious folks to purchase.
Goa Animal Welfare Trust
Do you care for stray animals and want to do your bit as a good deed? Then head to this place for purchasing second hand books and souvenirs, the proceeds of which go for caring for the strays.
Chim
A place run by an eco-conscious entrepreneur, Shefali Mahadik, which sources collections from non-descript places like slums and international creative entrepreneurs, it was her vision to uplift the skilled craftspeople that made her start this venture. Do visit this store to take home some items and in the bargain help out the skilled and talented craftsmen economically.
Final Thoughts
South Goa beckons one and all with its eclectic nightlife, serene coast, and tranquil surroundings. Don’t get fooled by its simplicity since it’s the simplest thing which stirs a curious mind and from it springs forth the secret of innovation. Shopping in South Goa will transport you to the ancient times when life was simple and people trustworthy. Don’t let the sun set on your travelling plans, explore these little market wonders of South Goa.
