
Savoi Plantation: Goa’s Timeless Green Sanctuary
Get a real taste of Goa’s countryside at Savoi Plantation, nestled in the village of Savoi Verem, barely 25 km from Panaji. Set on a stunning, 200-year-old, family-run estate, this plantation offers a slow, authentic retreat into Goa’s agricultural roots—inviting you to wander under towering palms and through botanical treasures where the past and present blend seamlessly.
Timings, Entry Fees, and Dress Code
- Timings:
- Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Entry Fee:
- ₹500 per person (includes guided plantation tour and traditional Goan buffet lunch)
- Dress Code:
- No strict dress code, but wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes
- Prefer light and modest attire out of respect for local customs and for comfortable walking
- Hats and sunglasses help in the sun; carry an umbrella or raincoat during the monsoon
How to Reach
From Panaji, Savoi Plantation is about 25 km—an easy 40-minute drive through the scenic interiors of Goa. Take the Ponda road via Verem to reach the plantation gate, with public buses and taxis readily available from Panaji and Ponda. The peaceful rural surroundings are part of the experience, with winding village lanes lined by paddy fields and old-world Goan homes.
Why Savoi Plantation Is Unmissable
Strolling through Savoi’s orchards, you’ll be greeted by the heady scents of black pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, and clove growing right alongside rare medicinal plants and tropical fruit trees. Local guides, often the family themselves, share fascinating details about spice cultivation, organic farming techniques, and the enduring traditions that have shaped Goan hospitality for generations.
This plantation prides itself on being “organic since origin”—meaning you’ll see time-tested, sustainable farming in action. The tour is interactive: pluck peppercorns, taste aromatic leaves, and sip a welcome herbal tea infused with farm-fresh ingredients. Signature highlights include the collection of wild orchids, vibrant butterflies flitting among the greenery, and glimpses of local birdlife in the tree canopy.
The Goan-style buffet lunch, served on banana leaves in a breezy dining hall, features seasonal vegetables, local fish or chicken curries, rice, and fresh fruits—much of it straight from the fields. It’s a truly home-cooked experience, flavored with the very spices you’ve explored.
Souvenir spice packs and local crafts are also available for purchase, bringing the farm’s aromas home with you. Sometimes, the plantation hosts folk music or cultural shows if you visit during festivals or in the high season.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
- Visit in the morning to enjoy cooler weather and a tranquil farm ambiance.
- Make reservations, especially for group visits or during busy weekends.
- Bring a camera—Savoi is photogenic year-round, especially after the monsoon rains.
- Don’t miss tasting fresh betel leaves or wild turmeric if offered during your tour.
Savoi Plantation is cherished as one of Goa’s oldest and most authentic rural attractions, perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone keen to discover the real Goa beyond the coastline. Every visit promises a soul-soothing escape amid lush fragrances, warm Goan hospitality, and traditions preserved for over two centuries, making it a “must-visit” to truly spice up your Goan adventure.