Chikal Kalo, a religious and traditional festival of Goa which means “playing in the mud” is celebrated during the monsoons in Goa. This particular festival is native to the village of Marcel in Ponda. This year it will be celebrated on the 18th of July.
The Chikal Kalo festival dates back to over 400 years and is believed to have moved to Marcel, from Chorao, along with the temple, during the Portuguese rule.
This is one of the rarest temples that you will find in India that is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his mother Devki. Though the villagers cannot really trace back the exact year the festival commenced, they celebrate it with great fervor, year after year, by rolling in the mud and playing traditional games. The ground opposite Devaki Krishna Temple becomes a playground for over 300 revellers on this day. The participants use oil as it protects them against any possible infection present in the mud and then move out of the temple.
The locals and tourists are also welcome to witness and be a part of this festival. We also have the traditional Goan instruments that would be played during this time to keep the crowd in their spirits.
Join the Chikal Kalo Festive Trail with Soul Travelling for an immersive experience that goes beyond the festival. Interact with the locals and visit a traditional Goan house, where you'll get an authentic glimpse into the Goan way of life. Enjoy a day filled with cultural insights, traditional music, and authentic Goan snacks, making your experience truly memorable.
Note:
1) Women might not be able to participate in the games, however they can witness the same.
2) This is not a walking trail. Transport would be required between the different points in the trail. We recommend using the same transport that you come by for the whole trail. Transport is not provided by Soul Travelling.
Trail Duration: 4 Hours
Start Time: 9:00 AM
What is included in the tour
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Guided and storied trail
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Immersive festive experience
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All entry fees and permissions
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First-aid, Drinking water refills
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Sweets and baked goodies
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Soul Travelling Goodies.
What is NOT included in the tour
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Travel & Transport
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Change of clothes, towels, etc.
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Personal Expenses and Medication
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Bottled Drinking Water
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Additional time beyond the standard duration.
- Witnessing and partaking in one of the most unique religious festivals of Goa
- A storied and guided trail to some of the rarest temples in India-with their architectural marvels and religious legends
- Traditional Games and music enjoyed with the locals
- Visiting a local Goan house in the village
- A pure veg breakfast at the temple bhojanalay, prepared by the temple chefs
- Sweet tasting at a local decades-old bakery, and a giveaway of some to carry home.
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Welcome to the Temple Town of Marcel
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Breakfast at the temple Bhojnalay
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Visit to Shri Shantadurga Cumbarzuvekarin Temple to explore the age-old wood ceiling with carvings
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Visit to rarest Devki Krishna Temple, with stories of Displaced Temples
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Visiting a local bakery in the village to try Goan Savouries
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Visiting the Mallinath Temple to explain concept of Rakhno and Devchar
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Visit to a local Goan home
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Witnessing how the Chikal Kalo festival is celebrated
FAQs on The Chikal Kalo Festival
How can I reserve a spot for the Chikal Kalo Festival?
Soul Travelling offers reservations for the Chikal Kalo Festival. To reserve your spot, call us at +919529490245.
Do I need to arrange transport for the Chikal Kalo Festival?
Yes, transport is not provided by Soul Travelling. It is recommended to use the same transport for the entire duration of the festival.
What is the cancellation policy for the Chikal Kalo Festival?
Following is the cancellation policy:
- Cancellations made 24 hours prior to the festival start time will receive a 100% refund.
- Cancellations made between 24 to 12 hours of the festival start time will receive a 50% refund.
- No refunds will be provided for cancellations made less than 12 hours before the festival start time.
This policy ensures flexibility for cancellations while maintaining fairness for travelers and Soul Travelling.
