In a luscious green nook of Goa, away from its sandy beaches, lies a plantation filled with a collection of aromatic spices - the Sahakari Spice Farm.
A visit to the farm, situated in Cutri two kilometres from Ponda, will be an enriching experience of learning about the spices we love in its most organic form -- from seed to bark. Vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, pepper, chilli and turmeric may be unrecognisable in its natural state.
A few spices in its most organic state at the Sahakari Spice Farm in Goa
On this farm, 60 acres of the 130 is devoted solely to the cultivation of spices, fruits, medicinal trees and herbs.
Before your excursion commences, guests are welcomed with flower garlands and a cooling and refreshing beverage like Kokum and lemongrass tea.
During the fun and informative tour guides you will explore the various growing procedures and the time some of nature's spectacular exotic plant life take to cultivate and harvest. As you explore the vast estate, you will also become familiar with the wealth that these spices contain from its healing properties to its many uses that have been essential to Indian food for centuries.
Of course, Sahakari has so much more apart from a fascinating education about the origin of spices. Guests are treated to a spectacular display on the art of tree climbing. Skilful men demonstrate swinging to and fro betel nut palm trees and if you dare, you can even show off your own physical abilities.
Skilful men demonstrate the art of tree climbing at the Sahakari Spice Farm in Goa
The elephants are another big attraction at the farm. You can simply marvel as you observe their movements or go for a ride on these majestic mammals.
Adorable elephants spotted at the Sahakari Spice Farm in Goa
After the long walk around the spice farm, guests are treated to a cold-water shower to cool off just before delighting in a sumptuous Goan style meal.
By the time you leave this little garden of Eden, you will be left refreshed, informed and with a new appreciation for nature.
This visit is a must for nature lovers, foodies, culinary enthusiasts and photographers.
