Savoi Spice Plantation Ponda Goa
A 200-year-old organic spice plantation offering an authentic Goan experience with guided tours and traditional Saraswat cuisine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Savoi Spice Plantation Ponda Goa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 200-year-old organic spice plantation offering an authentic Goan experience with guided tours and traditional Saraswat cuisine.
"A rare find—an unhurried sanctuary that leaves you feeling rejuvenated and deeply connected to the soul of Goa."
Book in Advance
Ensure your spot at this intimate plantation by booking ahead, especially during peak season.
Come Hungry!
The traditional Saraswat meal is a major highlight. Come ready to indulge in authentic Goan flavors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Guided Spice Plantation Tour
Savoi Plantation grounds
Wander through lush greenery, smell and taste seasonal produce, and learn about traditional Goan spices and fruits.
Authentic Saraswat Brahmin Meal
Plantation dining area
Savor a delicious, home-cooked buffet featuring fresh ingredients from the plantation. A true taste of Goan culinary heritage.
Feni Ritual Experience
Plantation tasting area
Experience the local tradition of sipping feni with expertly paired cashews and tor, a unique cultural immersion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds, Embrace Authenticity
A Feast for the Senses
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book in Advance
Ensure your spot at this intimate plantation by booking ahead, especially during peak season.
Come Hungry!
The traditional Saraswat meal is a major highlight. Come ready to indulge in authentic Goan flavors.
Engage with Hosts
The family's knowledge and hospitality are key. Ask questions and enjoy the personal stories.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through the plantation, so opt for practical footwear. [:athletic_shoe:]
Tips
from all over the internet
Book in Advance
Ensure your spot at this intimate plantation by booking ahead, especially during peak season.
Come Hungry!
The traditional Saraswat meal is a major highlight. Come ready to indulge in authentic Goan flavors.
Engage with Hosts
The family's knowledge and hospitality are key. Ask questions and enjoy the personal stories.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through the plantation, so opt for practical footwear. [:athletic_shoe:]
Buy Fresh Spices
Take a piece of Goa home! Fresh spices and dried fruits are available for purchase. [:shopping_bags:]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Savoi Spice Plantation for its serene, authentic experience, a welcome escape from crowded tourist spots. The knowledgeable and hospitable Shetye family, the delicious traditional Saraswat cuisine, and the unique feni ritual are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects. It's lauded as a genuine glimpse into Goan culture and heritage.
"Stepping onto this 150-year-old spice plantation owned by the Shetye family(been in generation) felt like a journey back in time, and a welcome escape from the typical tourist trail. Unlike the crowded, bustling tours you find elsewhere, this place offers a truly serene and personal experience. It's clear from the moment you arrive that the hosts are passionate about quality over quantity, carefully curating a peaceful environment for every guest.
The heart of this experience is the host,Vrushali Kelekar, a truly kind, extremely knowledgeable and an engaging conversationalist. Her warm hospitality made us feel less like visitors and more like cherished friends.
The culinary highlight was a divine meal prepared by the host's daughter. Her Gaud Saraswat Brahmin food was not just delicious but tasted like a labor of love, a true reflection of authentic Goan home cooking.
What made the experience even more memorable was the unique feni ritual. We were introduced to the local tradition of sipping feni with perfectly roasted cashews and tor, a combination that elevated the spirit-tasting into a truly cultural event. It's these small, personalized touches that set this plantation apart.
If you're looking for a peaceful, authentic, and genuinely heartfelt encounter with Goan culture, history, and food, this is the place. It is a rare find—an unhurried sanctuary that leaves you feeling rejuvenated and deeply connected to the soul of Goa."
alisha ribeiro
"5 stars to MrSachin Shetye for his personal attention and care for his guests at his beautiful heritage. He took us through the plantation and explained everything in detail, all by himself. What a wonderful green heaven he has ! The famous Goan cuisine was also amazing. We had a wonderful experience. The staff members were also very welcoming and polite. Loved the artefacts carved out of coconut shells. Must visit place in Goa."
Shirali Gandhi
"Nice place awesome natural environment away from the city noises.. please confirm once with the owner before arriving at the location fir best experience 🙂🙂"
Sunil Sharma
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Savoi Spice Plantation is located in Ponda, about a 50-minute drive from Panjim. You can hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing service. Renting a scooter is also an option for those comfortable with Goan roads.
Yes, parking is available at the plantation, making it convenient for those traveling by car or scooter.
From South Goa, it's advisable to hire a taxi or arrange for a private car. The journey will take longer than from Panjim, so factor in travel time.
Absolutely! Many visitors combine a trip to Savoi Spice Plantation with other nearby attractions like Old Goa churches, making it a perfect day trip.
Public transport options are limited and can be time-consuming. Hiring a taxi or using a ride-sharing app is generally recommended for a more direct and comfortable journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost typically includes the guided tour and a buffet lunch. Prices can vary, but expect around ₹1300 per person for the tour and meal. It's best to confirm current pricing when booking.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your visit in advance, especially if you want to guarantee a spot and a personalized experience. This plantation focuses on quality over quantity.
The plantation is generally open during daylight hours, with tours and meals typically offered between morning and afternoon. It's advisable to check their specific operating hours when booking.
Yes, you can purchase fresh spices and dried fruits directly from the plantation after your tour. It's a great way to take a piece of Goa's flavors home with you.
The experience is usually packaged as a tour with a meal. The cost reflects the comprehensive experience, including the guided walk and the traditional Saraswat cuisine.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The guided tour involves a walk through the lush 19-hectare plantation, where you'll learn about various spices, fruits, and herbs, their cultivation, and uses. You'll get to smell and taste seasonal produce.
A traditional Saraswat Brahmin buffet lunch is served, featuring authentic Goan home-cooked dishes made with fresh ingredients from the plantation.
Yes, the unique feni ritual, where you taste local feni with accompaniments like roasted cashews, is often part of the experience and is highly praised.
Yes, children can enjoy the plantation tour and learn about nature. The meal is also generally kid-friendly, though it features traditional Goan flavors.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring the plantation. Light, breathable clothing is also advisable due to Goa's climate.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The menu is a traditional Saraswat Brahmin buffet, often including dishes like potato curry, fried breadfruit, fried banana, sambal, fried prawns, chutneys, pickles, and poi (local bread).
While the focus is on traditional Goan cuisine, the buffet usually includes vegetarian dishes like potato curry and fried breadfruit, making it suitable for vegetarians.
Yes, you can buy fresh spices and dried fruits directly from the plantation. This is a popular way for visitors to bring a taste of Goa back with them.
Alcohol, including the local drink 'feni', is available. The feni tasting ritual is a unique part of the experience.
The food is highly praised for its authenticity, described as 'home-cooked' and a true reflection of traditional Goan-Saraswat cuisine, made with fresh ingredients.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The lush greenery, vibrant spices, and rustic setting offer numerous picturesque opportunities for photography. 
The winding paths through the spice gardens, the dining area with its natural ambiance, and close-ups of the colorful spices and fruits are all great photo opportunities.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to inquire with the plantation management beforehand to ensure compliance with any regulations.
Generally, photography is welcomed, especially to capture the natural beauty and the experience. However, always be respectful of the private property and other guests.
Nature photography, food photography of the delicious meals, and cultural shots capturing the feni ritual are very popular among visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The opportunity to smell and taste fresh fruits and spices can be particularly exciting for younger visitors. The buffet meal is generally well-received and offers a taste of authentic Goan cuisine that most children can enjoy. While the plantation is spread out, the walking paths are generally manageable for families. It's advisable to bring comfortable shoes and perhaps a hat for sun protection. The serene environment provides a peaceful escape, and the personal interaction with the host family adds a warm, welcoming touch that makes the experience memorable for everyone.
🌿 Nature & Eco-Tourists
The guided tour provides an in-depth look at traditional farming practices and the ecological balance maintained within the plantation. You'll gain a deep appreciation for the variety of spices, fruits, and medicinal plants grown here, understanding their role in the local ecosystem and culture. The commitment to organic methods and the family's dedication to their land resonate strongly with eco-conscious travelers. It's an opportunity to support a heritage property that prioritizes environmental stewardship and authentic experiences.
🍜 Foodie Travelers
Don't miss the unique feni tasting ritual, a cultural experience that introduces you to Goa's signature spirit.
This plantation offers a genuine taste of Goa that goes far beyond typical tourist fare. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Savoi Shetye Family Legacy
+1 This deep-rooted connection to the land is palpable during your visit, offering a genuine insight into Goan agricultural heritage. The family's passion for quality and personal experience shines through, setting it apart from more commercialized attractions. Visitors often highlight the warm hospitality of the Shetye family members, who are actively involved in hosting and guiding guests. Vrushali Kelekar, for instance, is frequently mentioned for her extensive knowledge and engaging conversations, making guests feel like welcomed friends rather than mere tourists.
The plantation's commitment to sustainability and organic farming is also a key aspect of its appeal. By choosing to visit Savoi, you're supporting a family business that champions traditional methods and contributes to the preservation of Goa's natural beauty. The experience offers a refreshing contrast to the typical tourist trail, providing a peaceful sanctuary rooted in history and family pride.
A Culinary Journey Through Goan Flavors
Beyond the main meal, the plantation offers unique tasting experiences. The feni ritual, a traditional Goan spirit, is a must-try. Guests are introduced to the local custom of sipping feni, often paired with perfectly roasted cashews and tor, elevating the tasting into a cultural event.
Visitors consistently praise the quality and authenticity of the food, describing it as 'phenomenal' and 'divine.'
Exploring the Lush Biodiversity
+1 You'll encounter a wide array of spices like cinnamon, green pepper, nutmeg, turmeric, and tez pata, alongside fruits such as star fruit, pomelo, breadfruit, and jackfruit. The tour is an educational and sensory delight. Guides, often members of the Shetye family, share fascinating insights into the cultivation of these plants and their traditional uses in cooking and medicine.
This deep dive into the plantation's flora offers a refreshing perspective on Goa beyond its beaches. It's an opportunity to appreciate the agricultural roots of the region and understand the source of the delicious flavors enjoyed during the meal. The natural beauty and the abundance of plant life make it a photographer's paradise as well.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit