Goa’s Most Picturesque Lane
Caught the fancy of Bollywood – the Parra Road, near Varca beach. Featured prominently in the heartwarming film “Dear Zindagi,” this road offers a glimpse into the soul of Goa.
As you embark on a journey down Parra Road, you instantly slip into a reverie induced by the swaying palm trees that arch over the road, forming a natural canopy that feels like a gateway to paradise. The sun peeks through the leaves, casting a dappled light on the red laterite soil, enriching the road with hues of warm ochre.
Where is Parra Road
- Go to the last crossroad of the main Varka road. On the right side, you will see “Pinto Bar & Restaurant.” Right after it, turn right onto a narrow road. You will see many buildings. There are houses of Goa people and places for tourists too.
2. Alright, keep going until you arrive at the next big crossroad. Here, you’ll spot a turn-off for “Varca de Palms.” Now, this is where many tourists take a wrong turn and end up missing out on those picture-perfect snaps they dream of. So, don’t fall for that tourist trap! At the crossroad, you want to follow the sign pointing towards “CARAVELA Beach Resort.” That’s your ticket to photography gold – no more detours into the land of lost tourists! Keep your eyes peeled for the sign and your camera ready for what’s ahead! Turn Left!
3. You’re just a few meters away from the ultimate selfie spot and the artsy video takes you’ve been dreaming of! To figure out what kind of photos you want (with the sun in the frame or behind the scene), just keep driving until the end of this road stretch. When you see the first few houses, slow it down – you’ve arrived! But hey, don’t zoom past it, otherwise you’ll have to trek a long way to the next return in these narrow streets.
4. Get ready to snap some usual shots with the sun facing your camera lens. But don’t you worry about the techy part! Big, tall palm leaves have got you covered, literally! They will work their magic to give your pictures some amazing artsy effects. It’s like having your own nature’s filter, and let’s be honest, who needs an app when you’ve got Goa’s natural beauty, right? Keep that camera clicking and let the coconut palms do their thing!
5. Parra Road is a no-parking zone! Nobody wants their perfect shots photobombed by a bunch of cars. Imagine that stunning view with, well, your car right in the middle. Not cool!
So, where do you park your trusty ride? Easy-peasy! You can park your car before you hit the start of Parra Road (remember that last crossroad where those sweet, lost tourists make their adorable mistake?). Or, if you cruise all the way to the end of the road, you’ll find some little side-turns where you can safely tuck your car.
Keep those wheels off the main road, and you’re all set for a hassle-free photo session. Let’s keep Parra Road picture-perfect, folks! Now, go get that camera and capture those memories, car-free and carefree!
Why Parra Road so popular
It was on this very road that Bollywood found one of its most poetic moments in contemporary cinema. The coming-of-age film “Dear Zindagi,” starring Alia Bhatt and Shah Rukh Khan, captured a breathtakingly beautiful scene where the protagonist, Kaira, cycles down this road, her hair and spirit both flying in the wind. The scene, brimming with hope and freedom, has left an indelible mark not just on the film, but also on the hearts of its audience, who yearn to recreate that quintessence of joy.
As the whispers of the Parra Road’s beauty spread far and wide, it didn’t take long for this charming stretch to become one of the most sought-after locations for photography in Goa. Photographers and Instagram aficionados from across India and the world flock to this avenue to capture the perfect shot. It’s a place where the simplicity of nature offers a backdrop so exquisite that every photo turns out to be a masterpiece.
But Parra Road isn’t just about a visual treat; it’s a sensory experience. The aroma of Goan soil mingled with the salty breeze from nearby beaches, the rustle of palm leaves, and the occasional chirp of a kingfisher create a symphony that is uniquely Goan. The narrow road, flanked by traditional Portuguese-style houses, exudes an old-world charm that gently whispers tales of Goan ancestry and culture.
For those who wish to indulge in local flavors, there’s no shortage of Goan delicacies that can be savored along the way. From the spicy vindaloo to the sweet bebinca, there’s a myriad of tastes and textures awaiting enthusiasts of Goan cuisine.
Visiting Parra Road is more than just a travel itinerary; it’s about embracing the lyrical flow of life, much like the film “Dear Zindagi” teaches us. It is a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable journeys are those taken along the roads less traveled, where every turn is a story waiting to be told, and every moment a memory waiting to be captured.
So, the next time you find yourself in Goa, take a detour through Parra Road. Whether you’re cycling like Kaira, walking to soak in the tranquil vibe, or simply looking for that perfect snapshot, this picturesque lane promises to offer you not just a journey, but an experience that encapsulates the very essence of Goa and life’s unexpected moments of joy.