Been to Arambol, seen the Tree

Last Thursday began the international filmfestival, IFFI, in Goa’s capital Panjim. I couldn’t make it there to the opening, but from the Candolim beachside I admired those three fighterplane’s show in the sky. Each one them drew a different colour, and the show ended in a Bollywood way, when those two fighter planes drew a big heart in the sky, and then disappeared.

Wellknown local artist Subhod Kerkar is having his big fineart exhibition right in the middle of sunbathers, dogs and cows on the Candolim beach, and the exhibition is called Sea & See.Last week some strange heatwave hit Goa and the weather was truly burning hot and overhumid. The heat didn’t ease off even for the night. After this, the air stopped, and during daytime there was no wind blow, not even on the beach. The sea was almost still. Then came couple of cloudy days, and to me clouds are almost a miracle here in the Goan sky. Now the weather seems to be cooling down. Luckily.December is soon at hand, meaning that the prizes of accommodation will rise up. I’ve been looking for a long-term accommodation for a good prize, but so far I haven’t found a place that I’d like enough.December and new year are almost fully booked everywhere, also in my present guesthouse, so I hope I won’t be left without a rooftop over my head…
Seriously speaking, I shouldn’t need to worry. I went to see one nice house in Anjuna, close to the sea. But the decision is dependant on several things. The following days will tell.

Those bombblasts in Delhi, few days before my coming to India, and the possible threat of terrorism in Goa may have reduced the amount of tourists here. This is what the locals say. And at least during the weekend there wasn’t much people nor happening on the beach, which is exceptional. Otherwise you don’t see or experience this threat of terrorism here.

In a party in Finland, couple of days before my coming here, J recommended me to visit the Tree in Goa. So yesterday I decided to drive through Anjuna, Vagator, Chapora and Mandrem to Arambol. And to my surprise I saw Finnish Pelle Miljoona jogging there on the beach.

The path to the Tree was surprisingly long, and pretty hard to walk. At some point I even began to regret my going there. But the nature was beautiful, green, and there were lots of banyontrees and monkies were jumping on their branches. My clothes were wet from sweat when I finally reached the Tree.

There, in the middle of the jungle, under a huge banyon tree lived a woman, and there with her were also her friend and her puppy and some older local man, an altar, guitars and lots of exotic birds singing in the middle of otherwise quiet nature.

In the middle of that camp was a fireplace, and I suppose people have a habit of gathering around it to smoke some drugs. Now wasn’t it under a boddhi tree where Buddha was enlightened as well? This might be their point with this Tree.. I decided to skip that experience. Still my way back was lighter, thanks to endorphins.

Update in 2023: About the Tree in Arambol

The Arambol Banyan Tree is a renowned and spiritually significant landmark in the beach town of Arambol, located in the northern part of Goa, India. The tree is a mature banyan, which is a type of fig tree known for its vast, spreading canopy and complex root system. Banyan trees hold immense cultural and religious importance in India, often being associated with spirituality and enlightenment.

The Arambol Banyan Tree is situated near a freshwater lake and the Paliem Sweet Water Lake, which are themselves popular destinations in Arambol. The area around the tree is often considered a hub for alternative lifestyles, attracting a range of visitors including yogis, spiritual seekers, and artists from around the world. Some people believe the tree has a particular energy or aura, and it is not uncommon to see individuals meditating or practicing yoga in its vicinity.

In addition to its spiritual allure, the tree is visually striking and provides a rich subject for photography. Its sprawling branches and complex root system create an intricate natural architecture that invites contemplation. The shade it provides makes it a gathering spot, where both locals and tourists often convene for relaxation or conversation.

Although the tree is a subject of admiration and wonder, it is important to treat it—and the surrounding area—with respect. Many people consider the tree sacred, and local customs and beliefs should be acknowledged when visiting. Overall, the Arambol Banyan Tree stands as a testament to the enduring connection between nature and spirituality, drawing visitors into a unique experience that transcends mere sightseeing.

Read more about traveling in Goa from my visual travel guide INDIVUE – Trip to Goa

INDIVUE – travel & art