Discover hidden gems of Goa with Airbnb's latest guidebook

Goa’s glistening coastline and vibrant nightlife have made it one of India’s most sought after travel destinations.

However, beyond the bustling beaches lies a world waiting to be explored, rich in heritage, artistry and local traditions — where colonial-era mansions, serene spice plantations, and vibrant markets tell the story of Goa’s deep-rooted cultural legacy.

To bring this lesser-known side of Goa into the spotlight, Airbnb, in collaboration with the Goa Tourism Department, has launched Goa Unseen — a digital guidebook that takes travellers beyond the obvious, uncovering the soul of the State through its cultural treasures and heritage gems.

As a part of Airbnb and Goa Tourism Department’s ‘Rediscover Goa’ campaign, the Goa Unseen guidebook is designed to encourage travellers to explore the State’s hidden gems.

NEED TO SEE: The book features interesting elements of Goa such as 'azulejos' and local delicacies, among other things.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Goa Unseen guidebook has been thoughtfully curated with insights from local experts who offer a fresh perspective of the State. Contributors include famed , food writer Nolan Mascarenhas, artist and content creator Siddharth Kerkar, GoaGetterr founder Garv Vohra, travel writer Insia Lacewalla, and TV host and content creator Scarlett Rose.

Each of them have shared their personal favourite recommendations for Goa — from off-the-beaten-path cultural landmarks to secret culinary delights and immersive local experiences — that will help travellers uncover Goa’s true essence.

Goa continues to be one of the most popular destinations for Airbnb in India, and the platform has witnessed an increase of over 20% in bookings for Goa in 2024 compared to 2023.

This surge highlights the increasing interest in the State as a prime spot for tourists from around the world. South Goa, in particular, has seen a significant rise in bookings, with a rise of over 25% in bookings in 2024 versus the previous year.

This growth is a testament to travellers seeking new experiences beyond Goa’s well-known hotspots, with many exploring the State's serene hinterlands and vibrant local culture.

As a part of Airbnb and Goa Tourism Department’s ‘Rediscover Goa’ campaign, the Goa Unseen guidebook is designed to encourage travellers to explore the State’s hidden gems.

BOOK LAUNCH

The guidebook was launched in the presence of Goa’s Minister for Tourism, Rohan Khaunte; Airbnb's Country Head for India and Southeast Asia, Amanpreet Singh Bajaj;  and noted Indian actor, Abhay Deol, who shares a deep connection with this sunshine state.

“Goa has always been a key destination for Airbnb in India. With a growing community of hospitality entrepreneurs, Airbnb remains committed to fostering responsible tourism and helping travellers experience the authentic, side of Goa,” said Amanpreet Singh Bajaj.

“Tourism is the backbone of Goa’s economy. Furthering our MoU with Airbnb on initiatives like the Goa Unseen guidebook, we offer travellers an authentic Goan experience — one that extends beyond the popular hotspots and into the heart of our Goa beyond beaches,” Rohan Khaunte added.

“Goa has always been a place of discovery for me, a sanctuary where creativity, nature and community thrive. Over the years, I’ve been exploring its hidden gems – from lush , lesser-known beaches to unique local experiences – all of which have inspired my journey. Through Goa Unseen, I’m excited to share this side of Goa and invite travellers to experience its true essence,” Abhay Deol shared.

Whether it’s exploring tranquil hinterlands, discovering artistic enclaves, or indulging in local culinary treasures, this guidebook is the ultimate companion to experiencing Goa in a whole new way.

With Goa Unseen, Airbnb invites travellers to look beyond the familiar and embark on a journey through the State’s unseen wonders. Whether it’s exploring tranquil , discovering artistic enclaves, or indulging in local culinary treasures, this guidebook is the ultimate companion to experiencing Goa in a whole new way.

DETAILS

You can check out the online edition of Goa Unseen at the following link:

https://news.airbnb.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2025/03/Airbnb-Goa-Unseen-Guide.pdf