A closer look at the journey ahead..

Long before Goa became known for its beaches, it was known for its fields. This seasonal experience, a collaboration between Soul Travelling and Goencho Xetkar, takes guests beyond the coastline and into the heart of that older Goa, one shaped by paddy, monsoon rain, and generations of farming families. Guided by immersive storytelling and hands-on demonstrations, guests follow the journey of paddy cultivation from nursery to field, while meeting the people and initiatives working to keep this heritage alive. At the centre of it all is Fr. George Quadros of the Don Bosco Loutolim Society, affectionately known as the Paddy Man of Goa, a Government of Goa recognised changemaker who has spent years reviving fallow land and reconnecting communities with agriculture. The day begins with a traditional Goan breakfast at a heritage home, followed by a short film on Goa's agricultural revival, a special session with Fr. George Quadros himself, and live demonstrations of paddy seeding and transplantation in a working nursery. Note: This is a seasonal experience, available only during the paddy transplantation season. This is not a walking trail, vehicle is required. Approximately 10 kms travel is required. Duration: Half Day Start point: Heritage home, Goa Format: Storytelling, live demonstrations, and community interaction What makes this Goencho Xetkar experience special? • A rare, community-led experience beyond Goa's usual tourist trail • A personal session with Fr. George Quadros, the Paddy Man of Goa • Insight into Goencho Xetkar's mission to revive paddy cultivation across the state • Traditional Goan breakfast at an authentic heritage home • A short film screening on Goa's agricultural revival • Live demonstration of paddy seeding and mechanised transplantation • A walk through a working paddy nursery • Direct interaction with local farmers and agricultural experts • Support for a Government of Goa recognised, sustainable farming initiative Itinerary of the Goencho Xetkar experience 1. Arrival at the heritage home 2. Traditional Goan breakfast 3. Short film screening on Goa's agricultural revival 4. Welcome and programme introduction 5. Special session by Fr. George Quadros 6. Paddy seeding operation demonstration 7. Nursery walk and seedling loading 8. Paddy transplantation demonstration 9. Interactive session with local farmers 10. Conclusion of the programme