LOUTOLIM The Land Of Green Fields And Palatial House

Team Planet Goa takes a trip to explore the beauty of Loutolim – the people, the places and the stories that makes this village intriguing place worth visiting.

Loutolim is a quaint village situated downstream on the Zuari River. Driving along the scenic road parallel to the river, lanked with shipyards and paddy fields on either side. The first signs of reaching the precincts of Loutolim is the Figueiredo House, a palatial mansion located just off the road at the entrance of the village. Characterized by huge Indo- Portuguese houses, and large tracts of cashew plantations, Loutolim is a delightful village with lush green paddy fields and tranquil villages road perpetually shaded by large mango trees and a constant breeze blowing over.

The focal point of the village is the church square, located at the center. A hotspot for village activities as well as a place to grab some great beef samosas. A little beyond the church square is a popular tourist site, Ancestral Goa- a museum and art centre exhibiting Goan art and culture. Loutolim also stakes claim to three majestic colonial houses worth a visit, which includes the residence of legendary artist Mario Miranda. The other mansions include Casa Araujo Alvares- a 250 year old house at the heart of the village.

The third mansion is the Figueiredo House, flanked with on either sides of the grand entry, the mansion houses a museum that displays artefact dating back to over 400 years ago.

The best places to catch a meal are House No. 2, the story behind this being that it was the second house ever built in the village. Enjoy continental fare and a great Goan spread while seated on the backdrop of the old mansion and ideal to sit back and relax. Another must-not-miss place in the vicinity is Jila Bakery, known for their chocolate eclairs world over; you must also try their other homemade Goan bakes.

Exploring the village roads and taking in the spirit of the place is a wonderful experience. Enjoying the sunset at the Loutolim Monte, or even a visit to the lake (locally called Tolleaband) is worth your time. The riverfront is also frequented and usually a common spot for fishing. The local spring (Tontem Spring) is also a pretty spot to relax.

If you find yourself with more time after exploring the houses and the museums, sit along the roadside and catch a glimpse of several species of birds in the paddy fields.

A village steeped heavily in the colonial history of Goa, Loutolim makes for insightful stories to meet up with locals and get talking. A very friendly place, the locals are more than happy to strike up a conversation.

Planet Goa Team

For us at Planet-Goa, our team is driven by that feeling of exhilaration that one gets when discovering that something ‘unique’ and ‘new’ about Goa for our ever-so-discerning readers.