Mandrem is the blissed-out destination that beach lovers dream of. Far from boisterous parties and marketplaces, it evokes images of the Goa discovered by American and European hippies in the 1960s. Laze on white sand beaches framed by casuarina trees and coconut palms, and experience the mindfulness of yoga and meditation without the frenzied backpacker scene.
Mandrem Beach occupies a tiny peninsula of powder-like sand surrounded by the Arabian Sea and a small creek. Bring a book, top up your tan, purchase snacks from the seasonal food stands and hang around to watch the sunset. Get active by renting a bodyboard or learning to kite surf. Wooden bridges cross the creek to the village’s bars, cafés, guesthouses and hotels.
Stroll barefoot south along the shoreline to pristine Ashwen Beach. Play in the gentle waves, relax beneath a palapa umbrella and purchase Goan seafood dishes at beachside shacks. Wildlife such as crabs, fish eagle, heron and kingfisher flourishes along this stretch of North Goa’s coastline. Further south, Olive Ridley sea turtles nest at Morjim Beach.
Mandrem’s secluded location makes it ideal for yoga and meditation. Sign up for individual and group classes and make reservations at overnight retreats. Train to become a certified yoga teacher and learn the art of Reiki energy healing. Massage centers offer Ayurvedic treatments that help to soothe and rejuvenate the body.
Glimpse into the practices of the Hindu faith at the colorful Shri Mhalasa Devi Temple. Close by is a huge banyan tree deemed sacred by some locals. Atmospheric restaurants, bars and grocery stores line the streets of the Madlamaz-Mandrem market area. Sample feni, a traditional Goan alcoholic drink made from cashew or toddy palm.
Mandrem is a 15-minute drive from busy Arambol Beach and 30 minutes from Anjuna Beach. Get here by taking public buses or rent a scooter and go beach hopping. Wintertime is the peak season, when the sun shines hot and rainfall is minimal.
