why travel to goa

Traveling Without a Passport

Why Visit Goa? 10 Best Reasons

India is a diverse country with hundreds of unique places to visit. It can be difficult to narrow down the spots you need to hit during your visit, so if you’re planning a trip to India, why should Goa be on your list? Check out these 10 reasons, and you’ll be racing to put Goa at the top of your itinerary!

Travel to: Goa

The beauty of Goa

Everywhere you look in India, you’ll find gorgeous scenery, stunning architecture, and history around every corner. So what makes Goa so special? Some of India’s most beautiful places are located in Goa – here are a few of our favourites.

• Agonda Beach : This isolated white-sand beach is your perfect escape from a busy trip! Visit the turtle centre to learn about conservation efforts, or just spend the day lounging in beachside cafes.
• Basilica of Bom Jesus : Home of the body of St. Francis Xavier, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was constructed in 1605 in stunning white marble. As well as being an important historical site, the Basilica is architecturally stunning!
• Amboli Waterfalls : Located in the Western Ghat hills, Amboli Falls is one of India’s most beautiful waterfalls – and the incredibly diverse flora and fauna surrounding the falls don’t hurt either!
• Terekhol Fort : Technically, the Terekhol Fort is in Maharashtra – it sits on the northern side of the Terekhol River, which is the dividing line between the states – but we couldn’t resist! This 17th-century fort provides stunning panoramic views of the river and sea beyond.
• Grande Island : A great escape from busier cities, Grande Island (or Ilha Grande) is a quick ferry ride away from the mainland. Here, travellers can enjoy snorkelling, swimming, exploring shipwrecks, and even spotting dolphins!
• Mapusa Market : Open Fridays, this market is where locals come to get their fresh produce. Here, you’ll find a rush of brightly-coloured fruits, home-made snacks, jewelry, wine, and anything else you can imagine.
• The Latin Quarter : Feel like you’ve stepped into the Mediterranean in Panjim, Goa’s Old Lain Quarter and a UNESCO Heritage Zone. Your camera will love the colourful houses and old Portuguese mansions!

1. It’s a Water Sport Heaven

If you like water, Goa has it all. This Indian state stretches its coastline along the Arabian Sea, which means there’s plenty of beach to go around. You can experience scuba diving or snorkeling in the sea, go on a sport fishing tour, try kitesurfing, and so much more!

Goa also boasts some beautiful rivers, including the Zuari and the Nerul, which offer calmer activities such as kayaking or backwater cruises.

2. Get a taste of the culture left behind by the Portuguese

The Portuguese held control over Goa until 1961, which means the culture still has a very clear mark on this area. In fact, many of the older locals still speak Portuguese.

If you want to get a taste of Portuguese culture, take a stroll through Old Goa, and make sure these three places are on your list!

• Se Cathedral, the seat of the Archbishop of Goa
• Basilica of Bom Jesus
• Church of Saint Francis of Assisi

Next, head to the Fontainhas neighborhood of Panaji to discover the colorful Portuguese-style houses and enjoy the culturally-charged atmosphere.

3. Accommodations for all budgets

Another great reason to visit Goa is the fact that, no matter what your budget is, you can afford to stay here. If you prefer to live in the lap of luxury, some of India’s most opulent beach resorts can be found here. However, if you’re trying to visit India on a shoestring, there are plenty of hotels that offer you all the comforts of home while still allowing you to stay within your budget.

4. Go party or just relax: it’s up to you

Goa is somewhat known for its party lifestyle, and if that’s your scene, you’ll be pleased. The nightlife doesn’t stop in Goa, and there are plenty of places you can party until dawn.

However, once you get tired of the nightlife (or the hangover kicks in), Goa also has a variety of places for you to relax and just enjoy life. Whether you’re looking for relaxing treks through the jungle, old-world history, or beaches that look like they were taken from your computer’s wallpaper, Goa has what you need to wind down.

See Also: The Perfect India Packing List for Summer

5. Beautiful wildlife

Of course, your relaxation just won’t be complete until you take in some of the natural sights of Goa.

With over 450 species of birds, Goa is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Check out the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in Chorao to see some feathered friends. You can also see other rare animals, such as pangolins, guars, chitals, or elephants in Goa’s wildlife sanctuaries. The biggest sanctuary is located inside Mollem National Park, about two hours’ drive from Panaji.

6. These three Museums alone make it worthwhile

The museum of christian art.

Located in old Goa, this museum is a stunning representation of Goa’s Christian heritage. When you get a glimpse of Indo-Portuguese Christian art, you’ll see just what a beautiful blend these two cultures created.

The Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum is another stand-out experience that can’t be missed. Check out the history of Goa with artifacts such as Portuguese weapons, ancient maps, bronze statues, Persian and Arabian inscriptions, and more.

See Also: How to Spend a Week in India's Golden Triangle

Indian Naval Aviation Museum

For aviation fanatics, the Naval Museum is a great place to stop off and visit with classic planes and helicopters. Check out India’s aviation history throughout the years, and enjoy the indoor/outdoor design of the museum which allows visitors to stroll through the sunshine while viewing planes dating back to the 1940s.

7. Flea markets that appeal to all

Once you’ve had enough of the Portuguese culture in Goa, jump right back into India with flea markets such as the one in Anjuna.

This beachside flea market is full of eclectic goodies, many of which are made by hand. Make sure to hit Anjuna on a Wednesday so you can see this market! Once you get tired of wandering the shops, take a stroll on the beach or make your way inland to the German Bakery for some chilled vibes and vegetarian food.

8. Opportunities for volunteering

Goa isn’t just about tourism. If you’re looking for a way to give back while you travel, check out the opportunities for volunteering in the local community.

Volunteer travel allows you to accomplish something while you see the world, and gives you a chance to get to know the wonderful and welcoming people of Goa.

See Also: Your Guide to Walking Through India

9. Trek to Dudhsagar Falls

One of the largest waterfalls in the country is located just 60 kilometres (37 miles) from Panaji. Its four tiers stand over 310 metres (1017 feet) tall and create an incredible effect in the jungle that will truly stop you in your tracks.

To get there, head to Mollem and take a taxi, or book a Dudhsagar Falls tour .

10. Enjoy foods you can only have here

Everyone raves about the food in Goa, and for good reason. With the coast at your doorstep, the seafood in Goa is top-notch.

Also, try foods and drinks that are unique to this area. For example, take a tour through a spice plantation and learn all about how spices are grown, and what they can be used for. Don’t forget to try Feni, a local liquor made from cashews or coconuts. This drink has been described as a part of Goa’s culture, so don’t leave without a sip or two!

Goa is a vibrant and culturally-charged area full of new things to see and adventures to be had. Now armed with 10 excellent reasons to visit Goa, you can start packing your bags and get ready for a true Goan adventure!

Amy Copadis

Amy Copadis is a freelance writer and blogger currently living in Spain. She writes to fund her addiction to travel and coffee.

Related Articles

• Central America
• Destinations
• South America

Where to Travel in 2024

Twenty twenty-three has been a whirlwind of a year, from major...

• Tips & Tricks

Two Weeks In Thailand for Every Budget

Travelers get more for their money in Thailand, no matter their...

• Middle East

Best Valentine’s Day Destinations for 2024

Many places around the world compete for the title of “most...

Meet the Two People Who Will Be Touring the World with TourRadar

Get unlimited access to the world's best travel stories. subscribe now., privacy overview.

• Top Destinations
• Western India

Travel to Goa: A Complete Guide for First-Timers

Goa is a top tourist destination for travelers coming to India. With its rich history, stunning beaches and chilled out vibes, it’s no question why everyone should travel to Goa!

A vacation to Goa is unlike a vacation you will take anywhere else in India. The culture and lifestyle is unique and it’s accustomed to welcoming tourists from all over the world.

Get ready to travel to Goa with this guide. You’ll find information in this post about the best time to visit, best beaches, things to do, what to pack, and more!

Goa is situated on India’s western coast. For a long time, it was a Portuguese colony under Portuguese control. It became India’s smallest state when it officially joined the country in 1987. When you travel to Goa today, you can easily see the history in its colonial architecture. 

Goa is most famous for its beautiful beaches! It’s a great place to relax, swim, enjoy water sports or just soak in the sun. While many tourists travel to Goa for a relaxing beachy-type getaway, there are also breathtaking places to visit inland with its tropical climate.

This post is all about travel to Goa.

Travel to Goa

Best time to visit goa.

The best time to visit Goa is in the winter between November – March. This is the peak season and has the best weather. The average temperature at this time is around 80 degrees F (27C). It’s perfect because it’s sunny, not too hot, and no rain.

March – May isn’t the best time to visit Goa because it becomes really hot (especially in May!). But, it’s still okay to travel if you don’t mind the heat, plus you can cool off in the sea. The average temperature is in the upper 80s (30C), but the air feels heavy and hot.

Don’t plan to travel to Goa between June – October. This is monsoon season! Many shops, stalls, food joints, and beach restaurants completely close down during these months and there is not much to do. Expect it to rain every day if you travel then.

I have traveled to Goa during monsoon several times, but the whole vibe is very different. There is not a lot of excitement and not many people around. Things are closed and you can’t spend much time at the beach because it rains all the time.

Travel to Goa (How to get there and how to get around)

There are 2 major airports in Goa: Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport) is in central/south Goa near the capital city, Panaji. Manohar International Airport is a new airport in North Goa.

You can get a pre-paid taxi from either airport to your stay. I recommend hiring pre-paid ones unless you feel confident you can bargain and get a fair price otherwise. Pre-paid taxi services have set rates and will have a chart with various cities and cost for each. You can take your taxi driver’s number if they are willing and have them drive you back to the airport at the end of your trip too!

Once you are at your stay in Goa, it’s common for tourists to rent a scooty (moped). In the smaller beach towns, it’s very easy to get around with minimal traffic. The traffic in the cities like Panaji or Mapusa is also reasonable to drive in if you’re comfortable (unlike other cities in India!).

In the beach towns, you won’t find rickshaws. If you don’t want to rent a scooty, you can ask your hotel for a taxi and they should be able to provide you with a contact. It’s very easy to find a driver if you ask around.

Best Places to Stay in Goa (AKA the best Goa beaches!)

When looking for the best places to stay in Goa, one of the first choices you’ll have to make is if you want to travel to North or South Goa. North Goa is known for its lively beaches, vibrant nightlife, and touristy vibe. South Goa offers a more serene and tranquil atmosphere with less-crowded beaches and a focus on relaxation.

To be honest, I think no matter where you go you can enjoy your vacation the way you want to. Parties don’t only happen in the north and you can still find relaxing, chilled out beach vibes away from the south.

Here are some of the best beaches depending on what you are looking for. For more suggestions on where to stay, check out these best 7 beaches in Goa !

Arambol or Anjuna : These are in north Goa and are popular for their hippy and party vibes.

Palolem : Located in South Goa, this is a great chilled out beach with a lot to do. It’s great for families traveling to Goa. 

Baga or Calangute : These are the best beaches in Goa if you’re an adventure seeker looking to enjoy water sports.

Things to Do in Goa

Naturally, the top things to do in Goa are at the beach! Most people traveling to Goa will enjoy relaxing on the shores and swimming in the sea. Imagine your typical beach vibes vacay.

You can also enjoy delicious food at the beach sacks and have a candlelight dinner with your toes in the sand after sunset.

Travelers can also enjoy various water sports, depending on the beach you’re at. There’s surfing, parasailing, kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, and more! There are a ton of companies and little businesses that can set you up with everything you need for cheap prices.

Panaji and Mapusa are the main cities in Goa. I wouldn’t recommend staying there because they are just typical city places and you’ll have a more relaxing or adventurous time elsewhere. But, you can spend a day or two exploring the cities and taking in the colonial architecture. There are some beautiful churches to see.

Waterfalls, Museums, Nature, and more!

Stepping away from the beach, there are many stunning things to do inland as well. You can visit different museums to learn about the history and culture. There are also nice waterfalls to hike around and enjoy. For more ideas on things you can do besides sunbathing in the sand, check out these popular Goa tourist places away from the beach !

Packing and Goa Outfit Ideas

Goa has a lot of tourists, and that means how you pack for Goa is not similar to other places in the country! Many places in India are more conservative and you would want to cover up. In Goa, anything works.

You can wear bikinis, shorts, and tank tops around Goa. If you are at a beach with less foreign tourists or traveling during monsoon/down season, you will get some stares. But in general, if you are at a popular beach with other foreign travelers, it’s common to see more skin.

I wear shorts, t-shirts and tank tops daily when I stay in Goa. You can also pack cute dresses and swim coverups. Basically, just pack as you normally would if you’re going for a beach vacation.For more details on what to include in your suitcase, check out this ultimate India packing list !

Nearby Destinations in India

Many tourists who travel to Goa also combine their trip with other destinations in India. Here are some popular nearby places to visit before or after you visit Goa!

Mumbai is a 1-1.5 hour flight from Goa. There are also overnight trains and buses for cheap. Mumbai is a popular city in India for tourists and is a famously safe city for female travelers. You can spend a few days in Mumbai in addition to your trip to Goa. Mumbai will give you a peak at city life in India. There are some popular tourist sites like the Taj Hotel, Gateway of India and Marine Drive that are worth checking out. You can also find a ton of unique and delicious restaurants or join in the vibrant nightlife scenes. To experience the city more like a local, check out these 15 unique things to do in Mumbai !

Kochi is the most popular city in Kerala for tourists and is only a 1.5-2 hour flight from Goa. Trains and buses are also cheaply available and run overnight. 

Kerala is famous for its incredible landscapes and breathtaking nature. There are some amazing nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries to visit! It also has a rich culture and delicious south Indian food.

Kochi is a great city to visit and you can find a lot of travel companies to arrange for small day trips nearby. I recommend taking a boat ride along the Kochi backwaters. You’ll enjoy a day seeing the lagoons, canals, and estuaries that Kochi is famous for.

There’s no airport in Hampi, but you can take a train or bus from Goa to reach there. It’s between 6-10 hours and is a cheap ride. You can also hire a driver.

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the neighboring state, Karnataka. It’s famous for its ancient ruins and has beautifully carved temples. The history here is rich and it’s incredible seeing the ancient architecture.

The natural landscape is unique and is full of giant boulders and hills. Some people say it was the playground for Hanuman, the monkey god. It’s very easy to find a spot to enjoy incredible views of the sunrise and sunset!

Extra Tips for Traveling to Goa

• Be ready to bargain! If you’re shopping in markets or street stalls, don’t accept the first price you’re given. I suggest countering with 50% of the price you’re first given, and work your way from there. It’s very normal for people to bargain when buying things from little shops or people on the beach.
• I recommend carrying cash, but hotels and restaurants will generally accept cards or Gpay. Cash is generally easier though because the wifi and service coverage can be spotty.
• You can get a SIM card from the airport or from small shops around popular beach towns. Don’t expect to have perfect coverage everywhere you go, but it should mostly work and many hotels offer wifi.

This post was about everything you need to know to travel to Goa.

You may also like

Travel Guide to India: Everything You Need to Know to for a Great Vacation!

Best Places to Travel in India: Top Destinations for Each State

What to Wear in India: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

Previous Post

A First Timer’s Guide to Goa, India

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Even though Goa is the smallest state on the Western coast of India, it is one of the most popular due to its rich heritage, warm and friendly people, tropical climate, scenic beaches and exotic handicraft.

Back in the 60’s & 70’s, the North of the island became a hippy-haven, a place to escape everyday life and quickly became somewhere for backpackers to hang out and party.

For people travelling India alone, it was the perfect introduction. Naturally, the more popular a place becomes, the more it changes and over time.

The North now seems to be associated with high-rise hotels, watersports, street markets and cultural buildings but it also still retains its party-vibe.

Goa was recommended to us by someone when we were holidaying in Morocco, so we carried out some research on which was the best resort to stay – North or South?

Table of Contents

Quiet Cavelossim

Dudhsager falls & spice plantation, peaceful palolem, our final evening in goa, travel facts for goa, india, other attractions, a small selection of the best beaches:, pin it for later.

We tapped Goa onto the end of a week touring the Golden Triangle and were looking for something quieter, relaxing and less developed – with all this in mind, we were advised to head South and chose Cavelossim Beach at the Dona Sylvia Beach Resort .

To ensure the area doesn’t become monopolised with high-rise hotels in the North, the resorts around Cavelossim are not allowed to be more than two storeys high.

The grounds are in a beautifully tranquil setting, filled with trees and pretty flowers, including my favourite – frangipani!

The sand at Cavelossim beach was white, soft and crunchy – it felt a little like snow underfoot (only warmer!). On our first day we relished in feeling the warm refreshing Arabian sea lap against our toes. We watched crabs dart across the beach and watched locals trying to sell their wares.

They attempted to coax us into their beach shacks but after all the haggling in Rajasthan we simply wanted to relax and walk – shopping would come later.

Whilst we were in Goa, we celebrated our 2 nd wedding anniversary so we headed to the beach for sunset with a bottle of champagne. The sky turned from pastel peach to oranges then pink – it was the perfect end to our special day.

The Goan’s are renowned for their fine multi-cultural cuisine and we both absolutely loved the culinary masterpieces served up at the resort every single time we dined.

They whip up everything possible with various types of veg and we piled this high onto our plates – this is unusual for us, we love our meat!!

Outside the resort was a small road with shops and a few bars. We always had fun talking and joking with the locals, they really made us feel part of the community and quickly recognised our faces.

One night we stopped for a beer and cocktail at the Jazz Inn which, bizarrely, had a big frangipani tree growing through the middle of it! We grooved to the cool tunes played by the DJ who was also a Bob Marley impersonator from Birmingham, England.

We had a great chat with him and discovered he spends 6 months a year in Goa.

On one occasion we caught an auto-rickshaw as a taster of true India, it was hilarious! We laughed the entire journey!

The night sky was pitch black and our vehicle barely lit the way with its tiny headlamps – goodness knows how he could see! It was loud, crazy and filthy dirty, my hair looked like a scarecrow when we finished! The driver was so proud at how quickly we had reached our destination!

We had to shower when we were back to our hotel as we felt so disgusting – but the journey was well worth it!

Dudhsager Falls (pronounced dud-sager) means “sea of milk” and is located in Colem, two bumpy hours on a coach from where we were staying.

To reach the falls, we were transferred into an overland jeep for the final 45 minutes of the journey and we drove through 3 lakes (very cool!) followed by a 10 minute walk over stones and boulders.

We stripped off to our bathers and gingerly inched our bodies into the freezing cold fresh water – obviously after a few minutes of swimming and we were acclimatised, it was OK but it was rather crisp for those first initial moments!

Big fish swam alongside us and people threw pieces of banana for them to eat – oh yes – fish …eating bananas!

We swam over to the cascading falls and felt its power as the spray hit our face, it was beautiful. We had some free time here, so we chilled on a rock listening to the roar of the tumbling water – music to our ears!

Considered to be one of the best beaches in Goa, Palolem was an hour’s taxi drive from our resort.

It is an idyllic white crescent beach naturally blessed with palm trees lining the shore, calm turquoise sea and colourful beach huts. It definitely had a laid back vibe and we watched as fishermen gathered their nets on the beach – all very picture-postcard.

We had travelled here to enjoy the beach, and whilst sitting down for an hour, a few sellers asked if we wanted to buy anything, and when we declined they left us alone.

This made it such a pleasure to relax and we understood the lure of why a backpacker would spend weeks here – purely to enjoy the simple, chilled life!

After taking a peaceful stroll along the shore, we sat in a beach bar sipping a cold drink and just looking at the view, we wanted take time to soak up the ambience and really “feel” what this place was all about.

So to sum up Palolem – it really is a tranquil slice of paradise!

As the sun set on our last evening, we sat on the beach and reminisced at how magical our time had been.

Even though the sun had disappeared, there was such a nice atmosphere we chose to stay a few hours.

We listened to the music playing, danced on the sand and watched the high tide lap against the beach tables.

People lit paper lanterns and set them adrift into the sky. We watched as they faded into the distance forming an orange dot on the skyline, noticeably different to the gleaming white of the stars.

It was the best way to end our magical trip.

• A tourist visa is required for most nationalities but there is an e-visa scheme to apply online.
• The International Airport is in Dabolim on the west coast roughly in the middle of the state.
• 4 languages are spoken – Konkani, English, Marathi, Hindi
• Seasons: November – March – dry and cooler (by Indian standards). April & May it is unbearably hot and June – Sept/October have the monsoon rains.

Other Things to Do in Goa

We were attracted to Goa purely because someone recommended it! We had already looked at the Golden Circle tour with tiger safari, so Goa was the natural place to add-on.

Incidentally, whilst staying here, tour operators do give the option for overnights trips to visit the Taj Mahal and for tiger safaris.

You can book transport to come to and from Goa ahead of time by using the popular website, Bookaway .

• Panaji/Panjim – The capital full of historical Latin & Portuguese culture
• Bom Jesus Basilica –(for St. Francis Xavier tomb)
• Wildlife Sanctuaries – Bhagwan Mahvir (of which Mollem National Park is a part) or Cotigao Lamgau Caves
• Spice plantation visit (there are many all over)
• Casino cruise
• If you’re hanging out in Goa, head further south and check out the cool state of Kerala. Backwaters, surf and tonnes of cool things to do!

Markets In Goa

• Anjuna Flea Market (every Wednesday)
• Arpora Night Flea Market
• Mapusa Market (every Friday)

Angie Briggs

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

Top 10 Things to Do in Mumbai, India

Refusing to ride: the real story behind elephant tourism in india, india’s rat temple – karni mata temple in rajasthan, related posts, 88 thoughts on “a first timer’s guide to goa, india”.

Thanks for the guide Alesha and Jarryd. This year I missed Goa Trip but not next time.

Nice post goa is the perfect destination for a explore beach and staying in beautiful hotels and resort with a beach view are the best combination for stay in goa.

Thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed the article 🙂

As awesome i am expecting from your blog

very informative blog!

Hey, nice thank you for this great information.

Glad you found the information helpful. 🙂

Hey Angie Briggs, Thank you for all this information and The way you explain the things was so commendable, I just went to goa it was so helpful for me and the resort where I stay was so amazing.

Happy to help. Glad you had a great time. 🙂

Goa is a stunningly beautiful city with a kind and inviting population that draws visitors from all over the world. a fantastic article! Goa appears to be a fantastic place to visit. I’ll be adding this to my long list of fantastic places to visit. Thank you for providing this information.

A delightful read. Goa is undoubtedly one of the best destinations to visit for anyone visiting India for the first time. Its laid-back charm and beach settings are quite alluring and would make you want to stay forever!

Thank you for your comment. 🙂

It is Informative and engaging at the same time. Really liked the content you included. On top of that pictures were lovely and gave a feel of Goa.

Glad you liked the article. Thank you

A very nice blog such a great place to visit. And I also share with my family.

Thank you so much

Wow!! You definitely have the art of story-telling. The way you have written and the flow in which you have written is mindblowing. A very well-written and informative blog. I really liked the Travel Facts and Other Things To Do in Goa section. Also, I would like to know if you visited any theme parks in Goa? I am looking forward to take my family to a theme park.

Thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed the article.

Thanks for sharing the article it is really informative to get knowledge about the place.Goa is the best place to relax yourself. You have posted beautiful pictures to explore goa without any hesitation.keep sharing the post.

Thank you so much 🙂

Nice blog on first-timer. Explained very well. I have visited Goa. Really, an amazing place for beaches, parties, waterfalls. Best time to visit Goa is from December to February. All the great festival happens in this time like sunburn, goa festivals, and new year celebrations.

Wonderful post ! it is very interesting and informative post, I really enjoyed to read this. Visiting for these places you can take the help of Bharat Taxi for taxi service.

Thank you so much. 🙂

Very well written blog. I have been to Goa a few times myself and I think the blog covers the essence and spirit of the lace quite well. Informative at the same time entertaining read. Please share more pictures if you have. I have written a Blog on Goa trip as well. Please check it out

Thanks for your comment Sonali.

Goa is one of my favorite travel destination, the best place to relax. Such a lovely post! So glad to see you added spice plantation, it is still not very known.

Glad you liked the article. Thanks 🙂

Goa is an interesting sea beach and it’s amazing. I love the marine drive there.

Your guide was impressive and mind-blowing photos.

Thank you so much. We appreciate it.

Thanks for giving a brief description on Goa .

Last some day I thinking where to go for a mini vacation and I reached on your blog. After reading blog I decide to plan a trip to Goa for next week,

Thanks for sharing amazing goa blog.

Glad we could help. Have a great time Karan.

This is a great blog as a first impression. Am living in Goa for the last 5 months and it has been a very immersive time for me here. There are plenty of people who are choosing to leave the fast-paced city lives and move to the sunshine state 🙂

Very nice blog. You share a grateful information about travel in India. Thanks!

Heyy you guys! this was an amazing article, I am from Goa, and glad you enjoyed your trip! as a student I am doing a research study on the hospitality industry in Goa, for which i’m taking input from various people like, who traveled to Goa, from Goa and so on. I would be delighted if you share your personal experience as tourists in Goa. Please answer these questions below: 1. Did you feel your trip went out of budget? 2. Were there any problems faced by you, like in your hotel stay? 3. Would you prefer coming back to Goa?

Thank you. This would be a great help!

Hi Anushka, thank you for reading the article. This article is a guest post from Angie from Feet Do Travel. Hopefully she will be able to help. All the best

https://www.feetdotravel.com/contact-the-feet.html

Hi i want to come There ,could you guide me

Awesome post. Last i trip to goa its is very pretty place.Its make more memorable to us!..I just remain that moment while read this blog. Thanks for sharing!

Hi Ryan, thank you for reading. Glad it bought back memories. 🙂

A very interesting post as I also familiar very little about Goa, but now I have added this to my list of places to visit.

Thank you. Glad you liked it. 🙂

I really love this place while reading your article I got excited and remembering my Goa trip Thanks for sharing Keep posting.

Would love this for our family! It looks a wonderful place to visit there.

Hope you all get there one day. Happy travels. 🙂

What a Great post! Goa likes an amazing place where I can enjoy a lot. I am adding these places on my list where I want to Goa. thanks for sharing the best information. The photos are also great.

Thank you for reading.

Nice post. it is a very useful post. I like very much. Thank you for your sharing.

Glad it was helpful. Thank you

Wow this is nice blog sites. Very interesting blogs. I reallly like your traveling images. Thanks for sharing.Really a wonderful post. Thanks for posting such an informative & useful post with us. keep posting & inspire us like this post.Amazing pictures and very interesting article….. Thanks a lot for giving proper tourist knowledge and share the different type of culture related to different places. If you are planning for your holiday and searching for the beautiful place to spend your time then you can wander around this vibrant city. Nice pictures & very helpful information to Goa. Thanks to sharing this blog…..!!!

Thank you so much. Glad you liked the article. Thanks for your comment.

Happy to know that you liked Goa. Its perhaps time for another visit. There is a lot more to see and do here. Come back soon 🙂

Thanks for your comment Jane. It definitely does sound like Angie had a great time. Jarryd and I will have to check Goa out one day. 🙂

This is quite helpful. And that picture of the waterfall is amazing 🙂 Keep sharing more.

Thank you so much. Angie wrote a great article for us. 🙂

My friends and I booked a yacht from rediscovery cruises in April.. We had the best time ever!!! The staff took really good care of us.. We were served chilled beers and light snacks. All in all it was an amazing experience. Will definitely recommend them to anyone.Thanks to sea water sports

What a trip. Sounds like you had a great time. 🙂 Thank you for your comment

Great. I like your article and I have never been there so I am planning to visit there very soon on my upcoming vacation. Thanks for sharing the information.

Thank you so much. We hope you have a great time on your next visit. 🙂

Very well explained the unknown things about goa.

I’m going this month on Feb’18 28th. join there.

Thanks for reading Arun. Angie wrote a great article for us. We can not wait to go. We hope you have a great time and happy travels.

Nice description about our own Goa. But you should come back for New year’s eve party to enjoy the real goa.

Thanks so much. We’d love to visit Goa one day. Angie wrote a great article for us. 🙂

Inspiring blog, will be visiting in this November. It would be fun if someone likes to join us.

Thank you so much. Sounds great. Have a great time Edgar, 🙂

Thanks for sharing, definitely inspires to go and explore! We will be traveling to India this year, will stop by there and stay for a bit, Looks like a graet place to hang out for a while. How as Wifi there? We will need that if we want to stay longer… Thanks!

Thank you so much Julian. Not too sure about the Wifi as Angie wrote this awesome guide for us. We do have a few friends who live there and are bloggers. They have never complained about it but then again they most likely have their own connection. I am so sorry we could be more help. Have a great trip.

I’ve met a few travellers who only have good things to say about Goa, but I’ve never been myself. I know it used to bit a hippy spot but that’s about as far as my knowledge goes, oh and it was featured one of the 2nd Bourne film at the start. Angie has given an excellent account and detailed write-up.

Hi Barry, that was our knowledge also (hippy place). Until we met someone who lived there and told us more about Goa. We have never been either and would like to one day. Angie has definitely made us want to go. Hope you get there soon mate. Happy travels.

Angie is such a great writer! What ever she writes down, it always consumes me in a good way. After reading her stories of various places in the world, I feel like I need to go to every single one of them right now! Ha! Same goes with this one and Goa. Can’t wait!

Indeed she is. She really takes you to the place and makes you feel you need to be there. We were very lucky to have her write a post for us. Happy travels Kreete. 🙂

I have been reading a lot about Goa lately. Looks like a great place to explore. Love those beautiful falls!

Thanks Lisa. It does seem a lovely place. Angie wrote a great post for and and has indeed made us want to go too. 🙂 Happy travels

Stunning photos and gave me a very good insight into a part of India I would really love to visit when I eventually make it out there. I have heard of some of the places you mention but you’ve really brought them alive with your photos! Thanks for sharing!

A great post – we have considered Goa as friends have recommended it but it’s fab to find out all this information – Palolem looks like paradise! Beautiful photographs

Thank you Tracy. Angie wrote a great post for us. Glad you found it useful. Happy travels

What a great post! Goa looks like an amazing place to spend some time. I’ll be adding this to my very, very long list of great places to go. Thanks so much for sharing – will pin this for later too!

Thanks so much Jenn. Angie wrote a great guide for us. We can’t wait to visit this area of India too.

Goa has been near the top of our list for a long time and we are thinking of making it our summer destination this year. We have heard that the monsoons make everything greener!

It looks absolutely stunning – especially Dudhsager Falls. One of my favourite things in the world is swimming in a waterfall plunge pool and listening to the water beat down.

It does, doesn’t it. We can not wait to visit India and Goa is on our list. Waterfall swim is so magical. Thanks for your comment Karianne.

A very informative post as I too know very little about Goa, but now I have added this to my list of places to visit. The photos are great !

Thank you so much. Angie wrote a great guide and she definitely can take a great shot. 🙂

As someone who knows very little about India and Goa, this was great. Palolem looks really relaxing and I like that the beach vendors aren’t too pushy. Surprisingly, I had heard of the Dudhsager Falls before somehow and they’re definitely somewhere I’d like to visit. Beautiful photos Angie!

Thanks for your message David. We have never been to India. Can’t wait. Definitely a great post by Angie and beautiful photos. 🙂

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Global Gallivanting

My complete goa travel guide: insider’s tips for 2024.

There’s many Goa travel guides out there, but my insider’s guide to Goa has everything you need to know to plan your Goa holiday – I’ve been living here for over 10 years since 2015 , so I know my way around more than most!

Goa changes quickly, new places open and close every season, so I have updated this post for 2024 with all the latest information. After being closed during Covid, India is now fully open for tourism, and last season was busier than ever so its worthwhile booking ahead.

My Goa Travel Guide

In this Goa guide I’ll go through everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Goa. From when to visit, where to stay and how to get to Goa, to insiders tips on the best beaches and places to visit, things to do, restaurants, nightlife and much more.

Why Visit Goa

Goa is India’s smallest state, famous for it’s laid back lifestyle, over 101 km of sandy tropical beaches, colourful markets and legendary nightlife all infused with a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese culture.

Goa first became popular in the days of the hippie trail and has now become India’s most popular tourist destination, Goa attracts many domestic Indian tourists as well as travellers from all over the world.

Sadly, most tourists haven’t read a Goa travel guide so they don’t explore beyond the beaches and parties. This is a huge shame because Goa offers so much more to explore, from historic churches and forts to spice plantations, waterfalls and natural beauty spots.

There really is nowhere else quite like Goa and with everything from luxury resorts to cute beach huts , wild nightclubs to mellow yoga retreats – it’s not surprising that so many people love Goa. 

Read More Goa Blog Posts: Why I Love and Live in Goa

My Insider’s Guide to Goa

Goa is a much bigger and more diverse state than most tourists realise. So for the best experience it’s really worth doing a bit of research and reading some a Goa travel guides and some Goa blogs like this when planning your trip, especially if it’s your first time in Goa.

I fell totally in love with Goa almost 10 years ago now and have spent many years living here, exploring every beach and corner of this beautiful state.

I’ve put together all my insider’s Goa travel tips into this Goa travel guide, from the best beaches, parties, hotels and places to visit to the best places to stay, best time to visit and much more.

I’ve tried to keep this Goa travel guide concise so if you want to know more click on the links for the full article on each topic

The Best Time to Visit Goa

When planning a trip to Goa, one of the most important things to consider is when to visit.

The best time to visit Goa is in the main tourist season in Goa runs from November – March when the weather is sunny, dry and cool (by Indian standards) and perfect for sightseeing, enjoying the beaches and water sports and the nightlife is buzzing.

Goa is one of the best places to spend Christmas and New Year. The churches are decorated for the festive season and it’s the best time to visit Goa for nightlife as there are so many parties around New Year and festivals like Sunburn.

This is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit Goa. Don’t come to Goa around New Year without booking your accommodation well in advance as everywhere gets fully booked!

Another great time to visit Goa is for the Carnival ! Join in with Goa’s biggest party as the streets of the capital Panjim (Panaji) come alive with a riot of colour and noise in mid February before the beginning of lent.

In April and May, the tourism season starts to wind down and prices drop. Goa is still dry but is almost unbearably hot, mangoes and cashews fall from the trees and the locals eagerly await the arrival of the rain.

Monsoon in Goa

No Goa travel guide would be complete without mentioning Goa in monsoon – visiting in the rainy season is a totally different Goa expereince.

The monsoon rains arrive in June and continue until September/ October and marks the off season in Goa. Many places including open air venues, beach shacks, parties, markets and beach huts close down for the rainy season. But every year more and more facilities remain open.

In many ways Goa is at it’s most beautiful in the monsoon season, although the rough seas mean its dangerous to swim or do water sports. The Sao Joao Festival in June is a fun and unique experience. But June and July see the heaviest rain with torrential downpours that can last for days, frequent power outages and flooded roads.

The best time to visit Goa in monsoon is from August to October as the rain becomes less heavy. Enjoy the lush greenery, waterfalls, fewer crowds and lower prices. Just don’t expect everything to be open and, apart from Independence Day parties , don’t expect a wild nightlife scene in the off season.

Read more about visiting Goa in monsoon

• Where to Stay in Goa

Deciding where to stay in Goa is really important as each beach, city and area has a different vibe and will appeal to different types of travellers.

Whether you’re looking to party the night away with friends, take a romantic couples trip or a family friendly holiday you can find the perfect place to stay in Goa.

There’s a big variety of accommodation in Goa, from luxury resorts, private villas and yoga retreats to mid range and budget hotels, backpacker hostels and beach huts.

But first you need to decide where to stay in Goa. That’s the hard part! My advice is to do read some Goa travel guides and do some research into the different places Then you can find the best hotel for you in your chosen location.

I made this map of Goa to help you see where the most popular beaches and towns are located in relation to Dabolim airport (GOI) and the new Mopa airport (GOX) and Madgaon/Margao train station.

The Best Beaches and Places to Stay in Goa

The best places to stay in Goa are on the beaches and there’s no shortage of choice from busy, party beaches in North Goa to long, quiet stretches of sand in South Goa. Whether you want to stay in a Goa beach resort or a basic beach hut, staying on the beach is the best way to experience Goa and is possible whatever your budget.

No Goa trip is complete without spending a blissful day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the warm Arabian sea, enjoying the water sports, eating Goan fish curry in the beach shacks and watching a spectacular sunset.

To help you find the perfect beach in Goa for you, here’s a quick round up of the best beaches in Goa and the best hotels and places to stay there. 

Deciding where to stay is probably the most important section of my guide to Goa so check out my comprehensive blog post on where to stay in Goa if you need more info.

The North is the busiest area in Goa where most of the attractions, water sports, nightlife, restaurants, markets, shops and hotels are.

The long, sandy stretch of Baga Beach, Calangute Beach and Candolim Beach are the busiest and most popular beaches in Goa with plenty of activities and beach shacks. You can try all sorts of water sports like jet skiing, parasailing and banana boat rides. 

Baga and Calangute are home to the lively pubs and clubs on infamous Tito’s Lane and attractions like the Snow Park. This area is good for budget and mid range travellers and has the best range of water sports, although the beaches can get pretty crowded in the peak tourist season.

Candolim lies under the shadow of Fort Aguada and is a more upmarket choice and less crowded but still offers easy access to all the attractions which makes it one of the best places to stay in Goa.

Anjuna Beach and Vagator Beach have smaller, more rocky beaches but are good for nightlife and where you’ll find Chapora Fort, Anjuna flea market and the infamous Goa psytrance parties and raves as well as other parties to suit all musical tastes and accommodation to suit all budgets.

In the far north are quieter upcoming Morjim Beach, Ashvem Beach, Mandrem Beach and Arambol Beach. Morjim Beach and Ashvem Beach are wide, natural beaches, once a breeding spot for rare olive ridley turtles, which are now becoming increasingly popular with the influx of new techno nightclubs, trendy boutiques and luxury accommodation.

Mandrem Beach and Arambol Beach are laid back, serene long stretches of sand with mostly budget accommodation for backpackers, hippies and yoga types. Mandrem is very quiet and the nightlife on Arambol Beach is more drum circles and jams than full on parties.

Best Places to Stay in North Goa

The taj fort aguada , candolim beach.

A luxury 5 star beach resort located in the most picturesque spot on Candolim Beach underneath Fort Aguada with stunning views over the beach.

Colourful, heritage style luxury villas are nestled in tropical gardens complete with a huge swimming pool, numerous eateries and world class hospitality. 

The resort is situated on an uncrowded part of Candolim beach but still offers easy access to explore all the action in Baga and Calangute.

Cavala Seaside Resort , Baga Beach

If your budget doesn’t stretch to the Taj then consider the Cavala Seaside Resort, a great mid range resort in a lovely heritage building just 3 minutes walk from popular Baga Beach. 

The resort has spacious and clean AC rooms, a swimming pool surrounded by tropical greenery and an excellent multi cuisine restaurant which hosts live music nights.

Cavala is only 5 minutes drive from Tito’s Lane and is also close to the nightlife in Anjuna and Vagator. 

South Goa is quieter and less developed with long, uncrowded beaches, luxury resorts and yoga retreats.

Palolem beach is one of most beautiful beaches in Goa . A white crescent beach fringed by palm trees and colourful beach huts with calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming.

The most developed beaches in South Goa are Colva beach and Varca beach. These are good places to stay with family and have plenty of budget and mid range hotels and amenities.

Majorda beach and Cavelossim beach are home to some of the finest luxury beach resorts in Goa and offer a real escape from it all. Agonda beach is also a good choice for beautiful beach front huts and is quieter than popular Palolem.

Best Places to Stay in South Goa

Alila diwa resort, majorda beach.

This elegant, Bali inspired, 5 star beach resort in Majorda has 3 excellent dining options, 2 bars, an Ayurvedic spa and luxurious contemporary rooms. 

The Alila Diwa is located right on Majorda Beach, one of the quietest and cleanest beaches in Goa, and is perfect for a peaceful stay only 30 mins drive from the airport.  

The highlight is the stunning tiered infinity pool that overlooks the green paddy fields. Stay in the Diwa Club rooms for the ultimate luxury and privacy.

Round Cube Beach Bungalows , Palolem Beach

Wooden cottages and beach huts located right on the beachfront of gorgeous Palolem Beach – the most beautiful beach in Goa. 

There’s a variety of rooms available all with AC and private attached bathrooms. The beach facing cottages, where you can soak up the ocean views and sunsets right from your room and balcony, sell out fast. 

There’s also cheaper colourful cottages just behind among the palm groves but whichever you choose, a dip in the ocean is still just a few steps from your beach hut.

Round Cube also has its own beachfront multi cuisine restaurant and bar where you can enjoy sunset cocktails and romantic candlelight dinners on the beach.

Panaji City (Panjim)

Even though Goa is most often thought of as a beach holiday destination, no guide to Goa would be complete without mentioning Panaji city, still normally referred to by its old name of Panjim, the state capital city of Goa.

While it’s not a beach resort it does have a lovely riverside setting, where you’ll find Goa’s floating casinos and river cruises, and it’s super close to Miramar Beach so if you’re looking to stay on the beach while exploring the culture of the city, the surprisingly uncrowded Miramar beach is ideal. 

Located in the middle of Goa, Panjim is a good base for culture, history and nature lovers as there’s a handy hop on hop off tourist bus that connects Panaji with Old Goa and the spice plantations, wildlife sanctuaries and waterfalls. It’s also not far from Goa international airport.

Take a stroll around Fontainhas, the colourful, old Latin Quarter, and visit the Immaculate Conception Church then try some traditional Goan cuisine and even Portuguese food in the restaurants and cafes.

Best Places to Stay in Panjim City

Vivanta goa, panaji.

The best modern luxury hotel centrally located in the city center of Panaji. The hotel offers a stunning rooftop swimming pool and views of the Mandovi River and Altinho. 

The Vivanta is within easy walking distance to both the riverside and the old latin quarter and also boasts a spa, 24 hour gym, tour desk, several great eating options and a cocktail bar.

Welcom Heritage Panjim Inn, Fontainhas

Nestled in the heart of historic Fontainhas, staying at Panjim Inn will immerse you in history. 

This charming heritage hotel offers tastefully refurbished and comfortable rooms that retain their historic character, features and furnishings.  Many are complete with four poster beds and private balconies. 

The Verandah Restaurant serves local and European cuisine and is a lovely place to sit and watch the world go by. Also check out Panjim Pousada , another great heritage hotel. 

There’s also many budget hotels and guesthouses in Goa where you can find a basic room for 1000 – 2000 INR but many are not available to book online. If you’re visiting Goa in the peak season I’d recommend booking online in advance before you come to avoid stress and disappointment of trying to find a room when you arrive.

There’s too many beaches and hotels in Goa to mention them all in this Goa travel guide. So check out my post on where to stay in Goa for more tips.

The Best Places to Visit in Goa

From beautiful beaches and colourful markets, buzzing parties to serene yoga retreats, historic churches, temples and forts, spice plantations, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries.

There’s so many places to visit and so many things to do in Goa that you probably won’t be able to fit it all in to just one trip. That’s why many people, like me, fall in love with Goa and return every year.

There are simply too many places to mention in this quick Goa travel guide, so I’ll summarise the most popular places to visit in Goa for sightseeing and then you can check out this post for more.

The Best Places to Visit in Goa for History, Culture and Sightseeing

Fontainhas, panjim’s latin quarter.

Panjim (Panaji) is not visited by as many tourists as the beaches are but no Goa travel guide would be complete without a mention of the states pretty capital city!

Panjim is a delight to explore with it’s picturesque setting on the Mandovi river, flamboyant churches and colourful Portuguese architecture. One of Goa’s most iconic and famous sights is the elaborate white Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

Don’t miss exploring the lanes of Fontainhas , the atmospheric old Latin quarter, which is full of colourful Portuguese colonial buildings, churches, cafes, bars, goan restaurants and the Gitanjali art gallery.

The best way to explore Panjim and learn about it’s unique history is with a heritage walking tour

The Churches of Old Goa

The best place to visit for sightseeing and to learn about the history of Goa are the churches of Old Goa. This was the capital of Goa when it was under Portuguese rule. It was so grand and important that it was known as ‘the Rome of the East’ and rivalled Lisbon until the city was abandoned for the new capital of Panjim in 1843.

Only the churches are left today and have been declared a UNESCO world heritage site. Highlights include Se Cathedral , the largest church in Asia, and the Basilica of Bom Jesus which houses the remains of St Francis Xavier.

Old Goa is a great place to visit if it’s your first time in Goa as it will help you to understand more about the history of Goa that makes this state so unique. The picturesque churches are also very instagrammable.

The best way to learn about the history and importance of Old Goa is by taking a guided walking tour that will really help to bring this site alive.

Fort Aguada and Chapora Fort

The Portuguese also built huge forts for defence that overlooked the ocean. Nowadays there’s not that much left of many of the forts themselves, apart from the crumbling walls, but they are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Goa due to their stunning views.

Don’t miss Fort Aguada , situated above Candolim Beach, where you can admire the impressive lighthouse and the breathtaking views out to sea.

Another popular fort is the crumbling Chapora Fort. Situated above Vagator Beach at the mouth of the Chapora River, it makes a spectacular spot to watch the sunset. It’s become quite famous since it was in the movie Dil Chati Hai .

Best Places to Visit in Goa for Nature Lovers

Spice plantations and hindu temples.

The Ponda area is Goa’s Hindu Heartland and is where you’ll find Goa spice plantations and most famous Hindu temples.

There’s a number of spice farms that you can visit to be immersed in the lush tropical greenery, learn about the plants and how many illnesses and ailments they can treat. Many have elephants that you can bathe or ride but this is cruel and shouldn’t be supported. 

The family run organic Savoi Spice Plantation is one of the oldest spice farms in Goa and doesn’t abuse elephants. Most spice plantations charge an entry fee of around 500 rupees which includes an entertaining spice plantation tour, buffet lunch and a small sample of some spices. 

You can combine a visit to a spice plantation with visiting some of Goa’s most famous Hindu temples like the Shantadurga Temple. The Mangueshi Temple and the Mahalsa Temple are both distinctive temples that are dedicated to Goan deities.

The best way to see the spice plantations in with a guided tour which include transport and a local lunch.

Dudhsagar Waterfall

Goa is home to many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, but the most famous place for nature lovers to visit is Dudhsagar Falls, situated in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in the Mollem district of South Goa.

Journey through the jungle with an exciting jeep ride to marvel at India’s second highest waterfall, and watch the train pass overhead while swimming in the refreshing waters. Dudhsagar Waterfall is at its fullest during monsoon, but then it’s closed to tourists due to safety corners, and there is water all year round. 

The best way to visit Dudhsagar Waterfall is with this guided tour that includes pick up from your hotel, the jeep ride to the waterfalls, a tour of a spice plantation and lunch.

If you want to immerse yourself in the jungle stay at Dudhsagar Plantation. The nature resort has its own spice plantation, nature trails and a relaxing natural swimming pool. 

Best Tours of Goa

The easiest way to explore the best places to visit in Goa is by taking a day tour. Having a local driver takes all the stress out of getting around and having a local guide really brings these places to life. The best Goa tours are:

Highlights of Goa Tour

This private full day sightseeing tour will take you to explore the highlights of Goa including the capital Panaji and the charming Latin Quarter, the UNESCO listed churches of Old Goa, an informative spice plantation visit and local lunch.

Spice Plantation and Dudhsagar Falls Tour

Get picked up from your hotel and enjoy a jeep ride through the jungle for a refreshing swim in Dudhsagar waterfall. Take a tour of the spice plantations and enjoy a delicious Goan lunch.

Check out more Goa tours on Viator and Get your Guide where you can check reviews and book online.

Best Things to do in Goa

Shop at the flea markets.

While there are endless shopping opportunities in Goa, visiting the many quirky hippie flea markets is a fun and unique experience. Don’t forget to haggle if you want to take home a bargain.

The most famous is the Anjuna Flea Market which takes place on Wednesdays on Anjuna Beach. This colourful market sells everything from hippie clothing and jewellery to Tibetan handicrafts. The Anjuna flea market was started by the hippies back in the 1970s and is now one of the popular things to do in Goa.

Another market to check out is the Arpora Saturday Night Market. This huge market is complete with live music and food stalls and is also a really good night out. There’s also a new popular Friday Night Market at Hilltop Nightclub in Vagator.

Take a Yoga Retreat or Train to be a Yoga Teacher

India is the birthplace of yoga, and Goa is one of the most popular places in the country to take a yoga class or join a week long yoga retreat. You’ll find drop in yoga classes in all styles across the state, many of which cater to beginners. 

The beaches of Palolem, Agonda and Patnem in chilled out South Goa are the best places for yoga in Goa. There are also retreats and classes in Anjuna, Assagao, Mandrem and Arambol in North Goa.

My favourite yoga retreat in Goa is Bamboo yoga retreat located right on the beach front on peaceful Patnem beach in South Goa.

Many yoga schools offer month-long intensive yoga teacher training courses. Find a full list of yoga teacher training courses in Goa here.

There are also numerous other alternative therapies and workshops to try from breathwork to tai chi to sound baths and ecstatic dance. 

You can also enjoy an Ayurvedic massage. Ayurveda is an ancient life science of plant based natural medicine that originated in Kerala but there are many ayurvedic treatments offered in Goa. Take a complete treatment course or just enjoy a nice, relaxing massage. 

Enjoy a Panjim River Cruise and Visit a Floating Casino

Panjim’s unique floating casinos on ships anchored in the Mandovi River have become popular Goa tourist attractions.

The best ones are Deltin Royale and Casino Pride . The entrance fee covers some drinks, snacks, playing chips, music and entertainment. Try your luck on the slot machines or at games like Roulette, Blackjack, Bacarrette, Stud Poker and Rummy.  Check out this article for more info on Goa’s casinos.

There’s several options for a Panjim river cruise including sunset cruises, backwater houseboat cruises, party cruises and dinner cruises with entertainment. You can book the paradise dinner cruise here. You can even book a private party boat to celebrate a special occasion.

Visit Some of Goa’s Wildlife Sanctuaries

Goa has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. The largest one in Mollem is home to Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary which contains Goa’s oldest temple and Dudhsagar falls.

The Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary , near Panjim, offers a unique experience of traveling through the mangroves in a canoe to reach the bird watching tower.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, near Palolem Beach, is where you can climb up a towering tree house for amazing views over the jungle and your chance to spot wildlife.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a complete jungle resort with a zoo, deer safari park, botanical gardens and nature interpretation center. It’s located near Ponda so you could combine this with a visit to a spice plantation. 

Explore the Colonial Mansions in Chandor

Chandor, in South Goa, was once the most spectacular city on the Konkan Coast . Some of the once grand colonial Portuguese mansions are now a shadow of their former glory but visiting Chandor is still an interesting place for those interested in history and architecture.

A highlight is the Menezes Braganza House which was built in the 17th century. This large house is now divided in two and you can see the contrasts between the grand and decrepit in one house and listen to the stories from the owner’s family feuds. The Figueiredo Mansion and the Palácio do Deão are also fascinating to visit.

The best way to visit the Portuguese mansions is on this South Goa Heritage Trail Tour. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to explore 3 Portuguese mansions as well the interesting Goa Chitra Museum.

If you want to immerse yourself in this unique history you can even stay in the Figueiredo Mansion which has been tastefully and lovingly refurbished into a wonderful heritage homestay.

More Exciting Activities to Try in Goa

The fun doesn’t stop at the beach, as well as watersports and boat trips there’s plenty of other exciting activities to try in Goa.

You can paraglide off the cliffs down to the beach if the conditions are right. Taking an ebike tour of offbeat Divar Island  or kayaking on the backwaters is a serene way to experience a different side to Goa. 

Thrill seekers might want to do a Bungy Jump and couples can treat themselves to a romantic experience of hoovering high above the palm trees with a hot air balloon ride.

Nightlife and Parties in Goa

No Goa travel guide would be complete without mentioning Goa’s nightlife scene.

Goa is famous as one of the best places to party in India and one of the hottest party spots in the whole world! Experiencing Goa’s legendary nightlife scene is a must when visiting Goa.

Goa is famous for it’s psytrance parties that started during the hippie days, but nowadays there’s something to suit everyone – from beach parties and live music jams to thumping nightclubs, trendy bars, lively pubs and fun night markets.

Some of the most lively bars, pubs and nightclubs in Goa can be found on Tito’s Lane in Baga , a lively strip of buzzing bars and nightclubs just off popular Baga Beach. There’s also LPK Waterfront and SinQ nightclub in Candolim.

Anjuna and Vagator also have epic beach parties and raves, check out the famous Curlies beach shack on Anjuna Beach or Hilltop nightclub in Vagator for crazy psychedelic rave parties.  Ashvem and Morjim are home to classy nightclubs and party resorts like Marbella Beach Resort.

South Goa is much quieter at night but there are silent headphone discos in Palolem and Leopard Valley is South Goa’s most happening party spot.

New Yea r in Goa is celebrated with fireworks on the beach and some of the most epic parties. Check out my tips for partying in Goa at New Year here.

There’s too many party places in Goa to mention them all in this Goa travel guide.  See more of my nightlife tips here and download the Party Hunt App or check out What’s Up Goa to find out what’s on.

It’s difficult to keep a Goa travel guide updated with all the best party places as they change and move every season but you can keep up to date with what’s happening on Goa nightlife social media groups.

You should also be aware though that Goa’s parties often get shut down or limited to an early closing time. This happens for various reasons but especially around election times when code of conduct comes in.

Best Restaurants in Goa

Goa is home to some amazing restaurants, from cheap and cheerful beach shacks to fine dining restaurants that serve up delicious seafood, traditional Goan cuisine, Indian cuisine and food from all over the world.

There’s too many great restaurants in Goa to mention them all in this Goa travel guide so here’s just some of my favourites . Check out my blog post on the best restaurants in Goa for more recommendations.

You’ll find the best traditional and authentic Goan food in Panjim. Hotel Venite has been serving Goan cuisine since 1955 and is one of the most charming restaurants in Panjim’s latin quater. Sit on the little balconies and watch the world by while sampling Goan cuisine.

Another must try is  Mum’s Kitchen , an award winning Goan restaurant famous for it’s seafood and for preserving traditional Goan family recipes. Viva Panjim is another top choice.

For South Indian food try Gunpowder , in Assagao, regarded as the best South Indian restaurant in Goa Experience the flavours and tastes of their curries, dosas and idlis in a classy garden ambience .

Fisherman’s Wharf , in Cavelossim, South Goa and on Panjim riverside, is one of the best seafood restaurants in Goa. Located on the waterfront with stunning sea views and delicious seafood. 

Thalassa, situated on the banks of the Chapora River in Sioilm, is a Greek restaurant with amazing views over the water. With stunning sunsets, delicious Greek food and live performances and fire shows, it’s become one of the most famous and popular restaurants in Goa. You must book in advance in peak season to reserve your table. See their website to know more and reserve your table.

Artjuna is a super cute cafe in Anjuna that serves up great Israeli and Mediterranean dishes in a relaxed courtyard garden cafe setting.

Beach shacks are some of the best places to eat in Goa and range from cheap and cheerful to gourmet international cuisine.

Pousada by the Beach, part of the Pousada Tauma Hotel, is my top choice for upscale beach front dining in popular Calangute. Pousada serves a great selection of traditional Goan and Konkani cuisine as well as great pastas and salads in a peaceful spot right on Goa’s most popular beach.

La Plage on Ashvem Beach is a gourmet French restaurant with an amazing beach front location that is consistently regarded as one of the very best restaurants in Goa. 

Zeebop is one of the most best beach shacks in South Goa. It’s location, on the pristine, white sands of Utorda make it a great place for long lazy lunch or sunset drinks. Not surprisingly the seafood is a highlight.

How Long to Spend in Goa

It’s difficult to say how long you should spend in Goa. For me, a lifetime is not enough ! The laid back lifestyle and beautiful beaches have a way of making many people want to stay forever.

There’s plenty of things to do in Goa to spend 1 or 2 weeks , but I know that not everyone has so much vacation time. As a minimum I’d spend at least 3 days in Goa just to get a taste of what Goa has to offer. 4 or 5 days in Goa is better though because then you can see the highlights of both north and south.

It’s only a few hours drive between North Goa and South Goa so for the perfect holiday you could spend a few days in both. Enjoy partying in North Goa, relaxing on the beaches in South Goa and take a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa to see everything Goa has to offer in one trip.

Follow my 3 day Goa itinerary to see all of Goa’s highlights in a short trip.

How to Get to Goa

Dabolim International Airport (GOI) is located roughly in the middle of the state and the new airport at Mopa (GOX) in the far north of Goa opened in January 2023.

Goa is well connected with most major Indian cites like Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai. In the season time there are direct charter flights from the UK, Europe and Russia to Goa’s international airport.

International tourists can also fly into Mumbai’s (BOM) or Delhi (DEL) and connect to a domestic flight from there. Mumbai offers the quickest, cheapest and most frequent flights to Goa with direct flights only taking about 1 hour from 2,000 INR.

Goa is also easy to reach by rail. Trains from Mumbai to Madgaon ( Margao) the main train station for Goa take between 9 – 12 hours. Just make sure to book tickets well in advance because seats sell out quickly. The easiest way to do this online is with 12Go Asia.

Madgoan or Margao is roughly in the middle of South Goa and the closest beach is Benaulim only 5km away. North Goa’s beaches are not so well connected by rail.

Other useful train stations in Goa include Vasco da Gama (closest to the airport)  Canacona (for Palolem and the far South) Thivim and Pernem (for North Goa) or Karmali (near Old Goa and the closest to the capital Panjim)

If you can’t get a train ticket there’s also buses and sleeper buses which take about 12 – 14 hours from Mumbai to Goa but the train is much more comfortable and the flight much quicker. Book at 12Go Asia.

How to Get Around Goa

The best way to get from the airport to your hotel is by using the pre paid taxi stand at the airport. Uber is not permitted in Goa.

There is an app based taxi service called Goa Miles but international tourists will find it hard to use unless you have an Indian phone number and bank account. Besides out of the main cities the coverage is not good.

There are public buses in Goa but the bus and train network isn’t really convenient for getting to the beaches or attractions.  The buses connect the villages to the towns like Margao, Mapusa and Panjim but getting between beaches and attractions sometimes requires alot of changes if you wanted to get from Arambol to Palolem for example.

There’s not so many rickshaws as you find in the rest of India and still no Uber in Goa so taxis charge a ridiculous price. There is a new Hop on Hop off open air tourist bus service that connects the most popular North Goa beaches and Panjim with Old Goa and the temples and spice plantations around Ponda.

So the best way to explore Goa is to rent a car, scooter or motorbike . Most hotels and guesthouses will be able to arrange this but be careful as the narrow country roads around the beaches were not built for so much traffic.

International tourists will need to show an international driving permit as well as their normal driving license if stopped by the police.

How to Get an Indian Visa

Nearly all nationalities (apart from citizens of Bhutan, Nepal and the Maldives) must apply for an Indian tourist visa before arriving.

An E-Visa is available for most nationalities including the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand and most European countries, but you do need to apply online before you travel to India. Get your e-visa on the official government website here.

Covid Entry Requirements

As of 22nd November 2022 India is fully open for international tourists and all covid-19 restrictions have been removed.

International arrivals no longer need to submit an online self declaration form or upload a vaccine certificate or negative covid test here before departure. It’s best to stay up to date and check the latest covid news and arrival guidelines here

More Goa Guides and Blog Posts

So that’s it for this Goa guide – I hope you found it useful! I have many more Goa blog posts and Goa travel guides to help you plan your trip to Goa:

• 3 Day Goa Itinerary
• Offbeat places and things to do in Goa
• A Guide to Goa’s Nightlife and Parties
• A Guide to Yoga in Goa.
• Panjim (Panaji) Travel Guide

7 Tips for Eco Friendly and Sustainable Travel in Europe

The best yoga and ayurveda retreats in kerala, india .

Related posts

How to save money on your holiday to bali, my guide to playa zipolite, oaxaca: mexico’s nude hippie beach (2024), the average daily india backpacking budget.

Best description of Goa Goa is best in December & january Specially from 25 dec to 2 january

Actually this is the busiest time and worst time to visit Goa because of the high prices and traffic jams. There are parties at other times of the year anyway

Thanks for the goa You included everything. Keep travelling

Awesome post! Goa is just an amazing travel destination, I really like to this article it’s very interesting and informative. The pictures are very beautiful, thanks for your amazing travel guide. Your photos are mind-blowing.

Also E-Visa has been restored for Uk vistiors as from Dec 2022

What about the last two weeks of Oct? Do you recommend Goa? Are shaks opened yet? And parties?

Late October is a bit of a gamble – it could still be very rainy so the beach shacks and parties don’t normally open until late November – early December.

Thanks for the guide Anna. This year I missed Goa Trip but not next time.

That’s a shame – hope you get to visit Goa again soon!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Yes, send me the newsletter.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

10 Reasons for Visiting Goa India: More than Just Sun + Sea

Posted on Last updated: March 4, 2020

Recently I had the absolute pleasure of visiting Goa, India, for the GITM International Travel Mart with Goa Tourism . Many people think that Goa is simply a destination for sea, sun, and sand, but if there’s one thing I learned during this trip, it’s that Goa is much , MUCH more than that.

Sure, its great to visit Goa to relax the beach; it’s a fabulous destination to return from an ocean dip into a bumping bar, cocktail in hand. However, there is so much more to this place than that.

Visiting Goa is great for everyone. Whether you’re into history, fascinating culture, unique food, heart-pumping adventures, nature, partying or more…. Goa has a little bit of everything for every age and type of traveler.

But first, a bit on info on logistics:

Best Time to Visit Goa

The best time to visit Goa is between November and March/April. They say in Goa that they have three seasons – summer, winter, and RAIN! And it’s not just light rain, either – there’s a full monsoon season between June and August/September. 

The Monsoons bring HEAVY rain and make the area gorgeous and lush. November is when the outdoor markets and bars begin opening for the season, making it a great time to begin visiting Goa. The weather is the hottest around Feb/March, before cooling down again leading into the monsoons.

Goa really is a destination for all seasons, however, as each time has something different to offer. Keep reading to see why!

Safety in Goa

If it safe to visit Goa? The short answer is, yes. If one takes the same general common-sensical precautions that they should take anywhere else in the world and remains vigilant, Goa is as safe as anywhere else.

Goa doesn’t have any ‘must-avoid’ type areas (as many place in the world do) and many would agree that the local population is generally very kind and always willing to lend a helping hand. In my case, the locals were lovely, gentle, and always kind.

Getting Around Goa

Although it is currently being looked over, the public transport in Goa is not the easiest to navigate just yet. But, they have recently invented their own version of Uber/Ola, called GoaMiles , to alleviate this problem.

GoaMiles can be used in conjunction with a local SIM to get around Goa, and is quite affordable. Other than that I recommend getting around by booking organized tours that will take you wherever you need to go.

Why Visit Goa?

Without further ado, here are some awesome reasons to add Goa to your India itinerary that may be a bit different than you think!

Older ruins of the Augustinian Convent in Old Goa – seen on a tour with Soul Travelling

Visiting Goa for HISTORY

Goa has an ancient, diverse, and fascinating history that’s sure to amaze even the least likely history buff.

Ancient History in Goa

Goa has been a human settlement since the Mesolithic and Paleolithic eras. This essentially means that people have been living here since the stone age – some settlements can be dated back 30,000 years! That’s old, people. Very, very old. 

You can find ancient Indian temples throughout Goa to take a peek back to times of ancient civilizations. Prehistoric rock art engravings (petroglyphs) have been found in a few different sites, that may date all the way back 20-30,000 years. The Hindu Temple of Tambdi Surla dates back to the 12th century, which is another great historical site to visit.

Portuguese History in Goa

Goa has a more unique history than a lot of India because it was a Portuguese colony – for 450 YEARS! Goa was the longest-standing Portuguese colony in India, and the culture has had a lasting impact on Goa’s architecture, religions, cuisine, fashion, music, dancing, and even language.

Visiting the ‘Latin Quarter’ of Fontainhas is a must in Goa’s capital of Panjim, where you can see colorful Portuguese buildings, relics, eateries, and more. You’ll see remnants of Portuguese Goa in some increduble Christian churches in Old Goa, from the Basillica of Bom Jesus and the gorgeous white Se Cathedral to the oldest (470 years) Church of Our Lady of the Rosary.

Fort Aguada is a massive Portuguese fort on the sea from the 16th century, as is the Tiracol Fort which has been converted into a luxury hotel.

People who are into history can also visit the Archaeological Museum of Goa to take a deeper peek into different times in the state’s history.

Flower Power Roots in Goa

The most recent history if Goa is when it became a destination for the ‘flower power’ generation in the 60′ after its liberation from the Portuguese. These ‘hippies’ were drawn to the carefree lifestyle of Goa’s beaches and played a large part in creating the idea of Goa as a beachside destination.

Traditional dancing at one of the floating casinos 

Visiting Goa for CULTURE + HERITAGE

Due to its incredibly diverse history described above, Goa’s culture is a main drawing point for tourism. Visit Goa to see cultural displays, take a journey through different points in time, and understand a way of life that is unique from many other parts of India.

Cultural Displays

You can catch an amazing cultural dancing show in many different places in Goa – from 5 star resorts, to the incredible floating casinos, to Baga beach. Many of these dances and performances will be reminiscent of Indian culture , while many will also have a tangible Portuguese flair.

Heritage Sites + Religion

Many of the sites above are protected World Heritage sites, from a few dozen to hundreds and thousands of years old. There are many Hindu temples that coexist peacefully alongside Christian/Catholic churches, which is something very special to Goa as well.

Visiting Goa for UNIQUE CUISINE

Goa’s cuisine is considered VERY global due to -you guessed it – its diverse history and culture. The food here is a very unique (and delicious) blend of different influences – some say it’s a blend of at least 40 different cuisines in one!

You’ll find classic curries with a seafood-based twist, as well as some native drinks as well. The most famous Goan dish is the fish curry + rice – a delicious light curry with flaky white fish. As a seaside state, fishing has a very important role in the economy and provides many locals with jobs.

You cannot leave Goa without indulging in a cashew feni drink . It’s an exotic spirit made from cashews, and is actually the only drink that has won geographical indication status in India. Drinker beware – it’s VERY potent!

Goa Tropical Spice Plantation

Visiting Spice Plantations in Goa

Goa is also very special because of the volume of spice plantations in the province. India is the world leader in spice production, and you can visit the source of much of the world’s different spices right in Goa.

I took a tour of the Tropical Spice Plantation and loved smelling and tasting all sorts of different spices in their ‘natural habitat’ and then tasting them in a delicious buffet lunch afterwards. It’s a must!

Visiting Goa for OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Goa was awarded the best state for adventure tourism – which you will find is actually no surprise at all! You would have to stay here for months, adventuring every single day, to even try to get all the outdoor adventures done around here. From paddleboarding to trekking, it sounds like the ideal place for an adventurer like me! Here is a very long list of all the adventurous things to do in Goa:

River Rafting – Waterfall Chasing – River Crossing/Ziplining – Rapelling – Jet Skiing – Hiking/Trekking in the Jungle – Wildlife Spotting – Bird Watching – Bungee Jumping – Battery-Operated Cycling – Scuba Diving –  Water Sports – Parasailing – Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours – Surfing – Hot Air Balloon Riding – Kayaking – Banana Boating – River Cruising – and more!

Phew! If that list doesn’t have you wanting to visit Goa immediately, I don’t know what will. Here are a few specific adventures to do:

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

These massive waterfalls are about 60km from Panjim and are completely mind-blowing. They’re one of the tallest waterfalls in all of India (at over 1000ft tall) which fall over 5 tiers.

Due to heavy water levels they are not visitable in monsoon season, but any other time of year (especially just after the monsoons) you’ll be spoilt with jaw-dropping views of this waterfall, which translates to ‘sea of milk.’ Due to its remoteness, the best way to reach it is with a tour like this one.

Goa River Cruise

One of the most spectacular things to do in Goa is to take a river cruise along the river Mandovi. It’s a great way to do some sightseeing along the wide and flowing river, see some traditional performances, and experience some shopping stalls as well.

Birdwatching and Wildlife in Goa

There are a lot of pristine jungles in Goa which are very biodiverse, which is great for lots of outdoor activities like trekking and wildlife too. You can spot over 500 bird species in Goa; the best place to do so is at the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (also reachable by adventurous bike tour) .

Goa is also known for many protected turtle nesting sites on the southern beaches, dolphin spottings all up and down the coast, monkeys all over the jungles, and more!

Floating Casino Boats

Visiting Goa for PARTY + MUSIC

Beginning with the ‘hippie trail’ in the 1960’s, Goa has come to be known as a great destination to party.

If you’re into traditional/local music, performances, and gambling, you MUST check out some of the massive floating casino boats at the mouth of the river. These casinos have fabulous buffets, lots of gambling, and great entertainers performing each and every night.

If you would like more pop music and dancing , the beach bars of Baga beach will be the place for you. As the sun sets over the crashing waves, the music turns up as beachgoers retreat to the open-air bars for a few cocktails in the evening.

Goa: The Origin of Trance Music

It’s no mystery that Goa is widely known as the bona-fide birthplace of trance music. This is something that actually brings in revellers from all over the world.

The current ‘hippies’ on the northern Goa beaches may well and truly be the descendants of the ones who started Goa’s first flower-power movement, as they party beachside to trance and techno each and every night.

If you are looking for psytrance and techno, you’ll feel right at home all along Anjuna Beach and up into Vagator . Electronic beats pulsate out of dozens of beautiful and psychedelic open-air venues along Anjuna beach, and slowly disappear into the sea breeze. Vagator has a few more cliffside and hilltop music venues.

Visiting Goa for FESTIVALS

Goa is also famous for a number of cultural and music festivals. The Diwali Festival happens each October, the Carnaval (similar to the one in Rio) each February, and there is also the Ganesh festival early each year. Music festivals and cultural/religious festivals happen throughout the year.

Visiting Goa for MEDICAL TOURISM

Goa is actually chock-full of fantastic hospitals that will offer high-standard procedures for a fraction of Western prices. Many Goan doctors actually trained in Europe and returned back to renowned hospitals in India, so the quality of care will be the same for about 1/5 of the price. Dental tourism is becoming popular as well.

Goa has both regular medical tourism and also traditional Ayurveda and eastern healing techniques.

Visiting Goa for WELLNESS, YOGA +  RETREATS

Goa is also rising in popularity for spiritual tourism. Alongside some other very famous destinations in India, Goa has properties that offer a range of yoga retreats, Ayurveda retreats/workshops, and other activities in wellness and healing.

These retreats will involve different healing practices, meditation, yoga, special diets, and/or different seminars – all of which aim to raise one’s vibration and help them become their best self!

Visiting Goa for SHOPPING

Goa is also very well-known for shopping – from the massive Mall de Goa to much smaller flea markets. You can wander some main towns and malls to find lots of high-end brand names, but many are allured to Goa for the local handicrafts.

Popular flea markets such as the Wednesday Anjuna flea market  Saturday Arpora night bazaar.  These are fabulous places to get some beautiful Indian printed clothes and bags, handmade jewelry, fun crafts, traditional decorations, and more.

Visiting Goa for BUDGET TOURISM or LUXURY RESORTS

That’s right, visiting Goa is perfect for travelers of all budgets. From 5-star luxury resorts to backpacker hostels, there’s a bit of something for everyone.

Budget Travel in Goa

Goa is a backpackers’ haven. There are dozens of hotels all over the state that average about $5-6 for a bed per night! Hostels here provide fantastic social atmospheres for travelers to get together, explore the area, and check out the local nightlife scene.

Red Door Hostel is a popular and social place to stay near Anjuna beach, and Rainbow Lining Hostel is a more chilled out beachside hostel in the southern beach of Palolem.

Luxury Travel in Goa

Goa is  also a suberb destination for those who want a bit more luxury in their lives. There are over 450 5-star hotels, many of which also classify as resorts – with in-house spas, saunas, organized activities/yoga, and more. 5-star resorts in Goa are also oftentimes much more affordable than they would be in other destinations.

The Hilton Doubletree Panaji is an absolutely stunning property overlooking a vast expanse of river and distant mountains. The area is dotted with beautiful gardens, has a diverse range of spa treatments, and has an infinity pool to die for.

The Leela Goa is a beautiful remote property – the only one in Goa that is both beachside and lagoon side. All rooms have a lagoon view, and they offer a spa, yoga, art classes, and more.

Visiting Goa for BEACHES: SUN, SAND, and SEA

Now, I know I said Goa is much more than sun, sand, and sea…. but when speaking about reasons to visit Goa it of course cannot be left out! There’s a reason Goa became famous for this exact reason – it’s an absolute beachside paradise.

The weather is generally warm year-round (despite being wet for a few months per year). There are over 65 miles of pristine beaches, from packed party beaches to remote resort sandy stretches. The sea is fantastic for water sports, swimming, and even surfing in some places.

If you’re looking for a party hangout, Anjuna Beach is the place to go. Morgim, Ashwem, and Mandrem Beaches farther north are more remote with a better change of dolphin spotting. Palolem Beach is a very relaxed backpacker beach hangout, while Cavelossim Beach is known for its lovely resorts.

Many beaches also have markets and craft stalls along the sand as well. It would be easy to get lost relaxing on the sand in Goa, exploring cliffside nooks, and cooling off in the warm water.

So there you have it – you can still visit Goa for the beaches, but don’t forget to immerse yourself also into its history, culture, cuisine, outdoor adventures, nightlife, medical benefits, wellness retreats, AND shopping, too !

Extra Photos:

Goan Sweets: Available  all over the state, but these were from a special Portuguese confectionary in Fontainhas. They are called: dodol, bebinca, doce, and pinagr.

locals hanging out in the Fontainhas Latin Quarter

Privacy Overview

A Complete 7-day Itinerary and Guide to Goa for First Timers

This guide to Goa is perfect for those of you planning to travel there for the first time, as it talks about the best time to visit, how to reach Goa, popular beaches in North and South Goa, where to stay for your first visit, and how to get around. Also included is Goa itinerary for 7 days.

Goa is a tropical paradise with endless white and golden-sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees. This small state in the southwestern region of India is unlike any other, with its laid-back culture balanced by its thriving nightlife. But that’s not all there is to Goa. It is a land of soothing bike rides, fascinating world heritage sites, plush resorts, friendly hostels, delectable seafood, and various forms of spiritual practices.

It is a popular destination in India amongst Indian and international travellers (after the Taj Mahal, of course), as it has something for everyone.

Guide to Goa For First Timers

What is the best time to visit goa.

March-May : These are the summer months when Goa gets unbearably muggy, with temperatures touching 40ºC (104ºF).

June – September : During these monsoon months, Goa becomes lush green. It is relatively quieter than other months. Most shacks are temporary structures that are dismantled during this period and water sports aren’t going on. But this is a charming time in Goa overall, with plenty of restaurants and activities to keep you entertained.

November–February : Winter is the peak season here. Goa, being a coastal area, is balmy while the inland parts of the country go through typical winter temperatures. The sun is always out and the cool sea breeze blows through from time to time. December is the busiest month as Goa hosts the Annual Sunburn Music Festival, which attracts people from all over. Plus, people flock in to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s holidays at this party destination.

Verdict: For your first time in Goa, you should visit during the season, Mid-October to Mid-March , so that you can see all that Goa has to offer. The shacks will be open, beach stays will be available in South Goa and the weather will be pleasant. However, the prices will be higher than any other time of the year.

How to reach Goa?

Goa’s international airport is situated at Dabolim, near Vasco Da Gama, and there is also a new airport in North Goa, Manohar International Airport. You can land at either of these and hire a taxi to your hotel/hostel.

While most cities in India have an organised cab service like Uber and Ola, Goa has  GoaMiles  ( now also an app) that can pass for Goa’s very own Uber. We’ve used it a few times and found cabs at a good rate. You can also opt for the taxis lined up on the road outside the airport (be prepared to bargain and ensure to set prices before the start of the trip) or prepaid taxi stands at airports that have a set price. You can always ask at your accommodation if they provide airport transfers but these might turn out to be more expensive.

Local buses in Goa are significantly cheaper but also very inconvenient, as you would have to change multiple vehicles to get to your destination in Goa. Use the local bus only if you’re on a super low budget.

Bus, Cab and Car

You can also opt to reach Goa by overnight bus or cab from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad in India. If travelling by bus, Mapusa would be your de-boarding point for North Goa , Panjim for Central , and Margao/Canacona for South .

You can book your bus via Redbus .

We’ve driven it down from Pune a few times now and once from Hyderabad. The road is full of potholes as you get closer to Goa. But you’ll cross ghats and waterfalls. It is beautiful!

Goa is also well connected by train to the rest of India. The main train stations are Vasco da Gama (central), Margao (south) and Thivim (north) .

Which area to stay in Goa?

Goa is divided into North and South Goa, with its capital, Panaji (popularly known as Panjim), located around the centre. For your first time in Goa, it can be confusing to decide where to stay, as different corners of the state offer different experiences. In this itinerary, you’ll be staying in both North Goa and South Goa .

Baga, Calangute, Candolim or Anjuna : This is a good option for your first time in Goa, as the area is very central, so all places to see would be close to you.

However, please note that these beaches aren’t best, as they’re the most popular in Goa. Every Tom Dick and Harry visit these beaches so the crowd is also such. However, your purpose of staying around this area is different. You’re here to enjoy the water sports, the parties, the food and maybe even shop a little.

A little further north is Anjuna. While it is not the best location to stay for this itinerary, this area has come up a lot in the past few years, so you’ll find a lot of  must-visit restaurants in Goa  around this area.

Stay Options:

Casa Cenica (2BHK in Arpora) Onastay  (2BHK in Candolim) Casa De Mezzanine (Beautiful 1BHK in Arpora) Jade by CasaFlip (2BHK in Anjuna) Beach Villa With Private pool (luxury) Canary By CasaFlip (1BHK in Anjuna).

Palolem or Agonda: For your first trip to South Goa, you should stay at one of these two beaches and explore other beaches nearby. These beaches have restaurants but still maintain a relaxed vibe so you can enjoy time on the beach. Remember that you should only stay in South Goa beaches beach from October to March, as the huts and shacks are mostly dismantled before the monsoons and built back up when the monsoons get over. Click to  know more about South Goa Beaches .

Stay Options: Jardim-a-Mar (Agonda Beach—I’ve stayed here twice) Simrose (Agonda Beach; this one is often open all-year round) Agonda Serenity Beach Villa (has a jacuzzi on porch at Agonda Beach) Agonda Island View (Agonda Beach) BunkNBrew (hostel in Palolem)

How to get around Goa?

Taxis are expensive in Goa and not ideal for getting around and sightseeing. Buses are quite cheap but again, inconvenient. Instead, opt for a scooter or motorbike for the duration of your stay in Goa. There is no better way to get around, as it will give you the utmost freedom. The best bit is that it is inexpensive at about Rs. 500–800 a day, depending on the season (off-season or peak), type of bike (scooters like Honda Activa, low-end bikes like Bajaj Pulsar or high-end ones, like Royal Enfield) and your haggling skills.

If you don’t want to ride a bike or moped, you can hire a car . Most offer stick shifts so if you don’t know how to drive these, finding an automatic may not be easy. However, we have always managed to find one and so should you. Economy cars usually cost about Rs. 1000–1200 per day but may go up depending on the season.

You can get a bike or car on hire easily by talking to your accommodation host or hotel.

The Perfect 1 Week Goa Itinerary: North and South Goa

The Goa experience is different for every individual, depending on their style of travel. It’s never one size fits all because there is simply so much to see and do. We have stayed in Goa for 2 months and have yet to see it all. Your personalised Goa itinerary would largely depend on what you enjoy—nature, culture, beaches, partying, etc. In this 7-day Goa itinerary, we’ve tried to include a bit of everything so you can get a true feel of the different sides of Goa and decide for yourself which aspect of Goa you enjoy the most!

Day 1-2 North Goa – Watersports, Shopping, and Partying

Stay near the Baga Beach/Arpora area. Despite being crowded, it is close to a lot of North Goa tourist spots you’ll be visiting. And also, hire a scooter, bike or car. You’ll need it to get around. Prior reservations for restaurants are needed!

Day 1: Beach, Water sports, Party

• Reach Goa and check into your hotel or Airbnb
• Rent a vehicle
• Calangute Beach for lunch at Pousada by the Beach
• Water sports and sunset at Baga Beach
• At night go partying at Hammerz (popular music) in the Baga Area or Las Olas (Bollywood music) at Baga Beach. Or both as they’re close by! Start at Hammerz and end at Las Olas.

Day 2: Cliffside Restaurants, Fort, Sundowner, and Party

You don’t need to do all of the things mentioned below. Select the ones you wish to do based on your preferences and how much time you have. I’d recommend not partying till late this night so you can be fresh to explore Goa the next morning.

• Wake up late this day since you’ve partied the previous night
• Lunch:   Titlie OR Antares OR Casa Playa at Little Vagator or Felix OR Artjuna or Vinayak at Anjuna.
• Shop: Now go shop at Anjuna Flea Market!
• Explore Chapora Fort (The movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot here so expect it to be crowded)
• Stay for sunset or go for a sundowner to Thalassa closeby
• Dinner at Ida in Vagator
• Party at one of the following – Soro (Siolim) or Romeo Lane (Little Vagator).

Day 3–4: North Goa: Culture, Heritage and Nature

Day 3: culture and heritage.

Head for a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa . On this day, you’ll get a good glimpse of Portuguese influence on Goan heritage.

Old Goa Churches : Start with Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the following churches in this order:

• St. Augustine Church Ruins
• Basilica of Bom Jesus (the most renowned)
• Convent of Santa Monica and The Museum of Christian Art (optional but good)
• Se Cathedral
• Church of St. Cajetan
• Viceroy’s Arch
• Our Lady of Mount Chapel (optional- for panoramic views of the Panjim area)

Going on a tour will help you make the most of your time and understand the significance of Old Goa and its churches. It is highly recommended. We’ve taken several tours by this company and loved all of them.

Lunch : Head for either a local Goan lunch at Kokni Kanteen or Cafe Al Fresco By Cantina Bodeg a for continental food. Both are close to your next stop.

Fontainhas : After lunch, take a walk in Fontainhas, Asia’s largest Latin Quarter, which has lanes lined with houses built in the colonial style and painted in bright shades of red, yellow, green, and blue. We highly recommend seeing this area on a Latin Quarter walking tour ; only then will you truly be able to appreciate the history, architecture, and all the stories.

However, if you don’t wish to take a tour, start your walk at Maruti Mandir or Phoenix Springs, ending at the Church of Immaculate Conception. See the colourful houses, click a lot of photos at the colourful wall of Old Quarter Hostel, buy some Azulejo tile décor at Velha Goa Galleria, admire the white façade of St. Sebastian Chapel, and have some bebinca (Goan Dessert) at Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro .

Evening: Get drinks and small bites at Antonio@31 or head for a full-fledged dinner at Black Sheep Bistro . Please check the prices of these restaurants beforehand to see if they fit your budget and make reservations accordingly. You could also go for a fun Pub Crawl instead.

Night: Later, you could head to a Deltin Royale Casino (buy tickets online for the best deals) OR go back home to rest for an early morning the next day.

Book Tours in Goa

Day 4: Nature and Heritage

Chorao Island and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary : Do this either on a tour or by yourself. You’ll have to take a ferry from Ribandar. Don’t miss the famous Mangrove Broadwalk. It is beautiful. We haven’t been here yet but can’t wait to go!

Lunch: Lazy Goose , Nerul. Reserve the table with the lake view if you can.

Depending on the time you start the day, see one/two of the following attractions. Choose one museum and one fort:

• Houses of Goa Museum (do this only after a walking tour of Fontainhas; otherwise, nothing will make any sense) OR Museum of Goa (modern art tinged in Goan history).
• Aguada Fort (great for sunsets but crowded) OR Reis Magos Fort (relatively less known and beautiful).

Have dinner in the Candolim, Calangute, or Baga area. There are plenty of good restaurants.

A Reverie : Fine Dining Toro Toro : Continental/Goan Yazu – Pan Asian Beach Club: Asian

Day 5–6: South Goa: Beaches and Relaxation

Day 5: spice plantations, iconic restaurants, relaxation.

Now, head to South Goa. Stay at Agonda or Palolem Beach—both are fantastic beaches for your first time in Goa.

But on your way, you have the option of making a few stops.

• Sahakari Spice Plantation: Wonder why the Portuguese were so fascinated by Goa? The answer lies in the tantalising smell and flavours of spices like Cardamom, Cinnamon, Cloves, Allspice, Cumin, etc. See how these spices grow and learn about them. End with a local buffet lunch at the plantation. I found the experience very interesting and learned a lot. You can buy the ticket on reaching there.
• Iconic Restaurants: If you’re not in the mood for the above, stop at Martin’s Corner or Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch. They are both very renowned.

Check into your hotel and use this day to do nothing and just relax on the beach, see the sunset, etc. Otherwise, you could also choose to head to Sundowner Palolem (Bar) for a sundowner!

Day 6: Beaches and Viewpoints

Today is going to be a long day of beach hopping.

Cola Beach: Start your day at Cola Beach. It’s a bit of a hike down to the beach. You can even take the jeep to the beach to save time and effort but it’ll cost a bit. Cola Beach is famous for its lagoon, where you can swim and kayak. You can have lunch here before heading to your next stop.

Kakolem Beach: This beach has a waterfall. Yes, you read that right. ( you can skip this beach if you’re running short on time or want to take it a bit slow).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Modi & Trisha – Travel Couple (@trywanderingmore)

Cabo De Rama Fort and Cabo De Rama Viewpoint for sunset . Both are gorgeous spots with fantastic views – you’ll love the sunset here. You can also choose to have a meal and drink at the Cape Goa restaurant near the viewpoint before heading back to your hotel.

Day 7: Butterfly Beach and Palolem/Agonda Beach

• Butterfly Beach : It’s a beautiful secluded beach. You can hike it to the beach or go via boat but I’ll suggest going as early as possible to avoid crowds.
• Palolem/Agonda Beach : For lunch head to either of these beaches that you’re not staying at. At Palolem, you can have lunch at Dropadi by the beach and at Treetop Tava or Zest (vegan cafe) at Agonda. Walk around the beach later afterwards.

Depart for home this evening or the next morning!

But do not forget to book your tours in goa before you get there!

Tips to Stay Safe in Goa

This guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t mention tips to stay safe there. Goa is really welcoming and local-friendly. But because it is a  thriving party location and has people travelling from all over, you should take care of the following, especially if you’re a woman.

• Don’t hitchhike.
• If you’re a woman travelling solo, preferably rent a car. If you’re a woman travelling in a group, bikes will do. 
• Always get a video of the vehicle hired to avoid being ripped off on returning the vehicle.
• Don’t go out with people you don’t know and never go to parties alone.
• Watch your drink.
• Try to stay vigilant, even when drunk.
• Some Indian men can assume friendliness as flirting. 
• Be cautious of theft at your accommodation. Huts can easily be broken into.
• Drugs are available abundantly in Goa. Avoid getting stuck in the middle of a drug racket. 
• Avoid drunken driving. It is being monitored by the police more strictly than before.

Don’t let these scare you. I (Trisha) have  travelled solo to Goa  and also with my girlfriends and had an absolutely fantastic time. Most of these tips should be adhered to anywhere in the world. Here is a complete list of  ways to stay safe while travelling alone .

Also, read these must-knows before travelling to India if you’re visiting this incredible country for the first time.

Goa is a place that you can never get enough of. With each visit, you discover something new—a secret beach, a quaint café, a shack with amazing music, a magnificent fort, and so on. We have visited Goa about five times for short periods—with different people, as different people in different phases of our lives, or wanting something different from our trip—and Goa has never let us down. We are sure you will be taken by the charm of Goa and not want to leave, just like the hippies in their heydays. I hope you found this Goa travel blog useful and have an amazing first trip to Goa. Tell us how it went!

This blog post on the ‘Travel Guide to Goa for First Timers’ has affiliate links that enable us to earn a small commission when you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and activities we like and those that might interest you. If you like any suggested product, do buy from the given links.

2 thoughts on “A Complete 7-day Itinerary and Guide to Goa for First Timers”

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us.

Well done and very much helpful. Thank you so much dear.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

15 Top-Rated Attractions and Places to Visit in Goa

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 6, 2023

With golden-sand beaches, tangled palm trees touching the sky, and a relaxed atmosphere, Goa stands in stark contrast from the other bustling urban destinations in India. Even just a short visit to this beach paradise feels like a vacation within a vacation. The beauty and serenity of Goa will rejuvenate you, while its robust calendar of events and activities give you plenty of things do to during your free time.

Popular coastal hot spots, like Colva Beach and Palolem Beach , draw tourists to Goa from around the world. But beaches are just the beginning of what makes Goa one of the most beloved places to visit in India. The destination also has unique Portuguese-influenced cuisine , historical churches and temples , vibrant wildlife , and fascinating spice farms . No matter how long you spend in Goa, you'll wish you had a few extra days to explore.

For more ideas to help plan your trip to India, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Goa.

Popular Beaches

Beaches off the beaten path, tanshikar's working spice farm, portuguese-indian restaurants, basilica de bom jesus, dudhsagar falls, anjuna market, church of our lady of the immaculate conception, braganza house, mahadev temple, palácio do deão, mangeshi temple, bhagwan mahavir wildlife sanctuary, reis magos fort, map of attractions and places to visit in goa, goa, india - climate chart.

Beaches play a starring role among the attractions in Goa, contributing to why it's one of the best places to visit in India .

Nearly every tourist who visits the area spends a day at Palolem Beach , a crescent-shaped stretch of white sand that overlooks the Arabian Sea in south Goa. While simply hanging out and soaking up the scenery is a perfect way to enjoy this beautiful area, Palolem Beach also offers an array of activities to fill your time. Choose from kayaking , yoga classes , dolphin-sightseeing trips, and swimming . You can also spend the night in one of Palolem's rustic coco huts , which are erected at the start of the high season.

Colva Beach is another one of the most famous beaches in Goa , especially among Indian tourists. It has swaying palms and a broad stretch of bronze sand, where you'll occasionally see herds of cows sunbathing next to tourists. You can rent Jet Skis , hop on a thrilling banana boat ride , and get a bird's-eye view of the beach on a parasailing adventure.

Homestay accommodations in the area will give you an authentic local-style experience – plus easy access to Colva Beach.

While known for their spectacular scenery, the popular beaches in Goa tend to get crowded during high season, leaving some travelers eager for a quieter natural escape. Fortunately, Goa brims with undiscovered beach attractions and things to do that give you some distance from the throngs of tourists while still treating you to glorious sand and surf.

One of the best hidden gems in Goa is Butterfly Beach. It has a curving expanse of sand flanked by boulders that create a postcard-worthy cove, brimming with butterflies and blossoms. It's also a great spot to watch dolphins swim in the distance.

You'll need to embark on a boat ride from Palolem Beach or Agonda Beach, or tackle a challenging forest hike, to reach Butterfly Beach – but the obstacles to getting here help to thin out the crowds. You might even have the place to yourself.

While more developed than Butterfly Beach, Utorda Beach is another stunning getaway from the more crowded beaches around Goa. It features clean, blue water; silky sand; and a few small beach shacks. Look closely as you wade in the water, and you may spot some small starfish .

South India has been known for its abundance of spices, like black pepper, cardamom, and cloves, for centuries. In fact, these natural flavorings were a major appeal for Portuguese traders who came to Goa hundreds of years ago.

Tourists can see what the local spice scene is all about by touring Tanshikar's Working Spice Farm & Ecological Rest House . This agritourism attraction grows seven different spices: pepper, vanilla, nutmeg, turmeric, cardamom, and chili, using totally organic farming methods.

Tours of the farm, often led by its owner, will give you an in-depth understanding of these flavor-charged crops and a chance to see some of the other products, like betelnut, coffee beans, pineapple, and banana, grown on the premises. Tanshikar's also keeps bees and produces its own all-natural honey.

Spice farm tours aren't the only fun thing to do at Tanshikar's. Guests can also take a vegetarian cooking class , visit a bubbly lake , trek to Mainapi Waterfall, and train to become a yoga teacher. It's an attraction that has something for everyone.

Address: Netravali, near Smriti Yoga, Sanguem, Goa

Official site: http://www.tanshikarspicefarm.com/

Food is a major attraction in Goa. This part of India has a distinctive cuisine that blends Portuguese and Goan flavors, setting it apart from all the other food around India. Expect fiery flavors, fresh-caught seafood, and an abundance of coconut in the dishes.

You can't leave Goa without trying its signature dish, vindaloo, a super-hot meat curry made with palm vinegar and dried red chili peppers. Hospedaria Venite in the capital of Goa, Panaji , wows tourists with its mouthwatering vindaloo. Dominick, a Benaulim Beach mainstay, is another favorite spot for vindaloo – plus it offers front-row seats for world-class sunsets.

Another Goan specialty is xacuti, a rich curry with poppy seeds, chili, and coconut. Try it at Souza Lobo , a beachfront restaurant in Calangute , or Fat Fish , a well-trafficked spot in Baga.

Tourists hankering for some fresh seafood are spoiled for choice around Goa. Zeebop , on Utorda Beach , offers delightful fish curry, prawn stew, and mackerel doused with spicy red sauce.

You also can't go wrong with dinner at Copperleaf. The upscale restaurant in Porvorim has a fish thali that you'll be dreaming about long after you've finished.

While many tourists visit Goa for the beaches, countless others consider the trip to be a pilgrimage to important religious sites, like the Basilica de Bom Jesus.

This Old Goa attraction dates back to the late 16th century and contains the remains of the St. Francis Xavier . The "Apostle of the Indies" co-founded the Society of Jesus religious order with friend St. Ignatius Loyola and spearheaded an extensive mission in India. The basilica has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.

The modest yet imposing structure is a mix of Doric, Corinthian, and Baroque style with intricate carvings. Interestingly, the building was stripped of its lime plaster in the mid-20th century, making it the only church in Goa without plaster. The Basilica de Bom Jesus has since become worn by monsoons.

You can tour the church on your own, or hire one of the independent guides near the entrance for a small fee. Inside, you can see huge ornamental screens, along with the body of the resident saint in a casket that was once covered in precious stones. It's a compelling place that will transport you back in time.

Every year, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier draws big crowds to this church in late November and early December. It kicks off with a nine-day novena and open-air masses before concluding with the major holiday on Dec. 3.

Address: Old Goa Road, Bainguinim, Goa

Aquatic adventures go beyond the beach in Goa. The state is also home to Dudhsagar Falls, a spectacular four-tiered waterfall that towers some 310 meters above the earth. It's one of India's tallest waterfalls and a perpetually popular attraction for day trips around Goa and Karnataka .

To reach the falls, you'll need to make your way to the village of Colem by taxi or train. Depending on which train route you take, you may get a glimpse of Dudhsagar Falls along the way. Then, you'll hop aboard a shared jeep through the jungle, passing Devil's Canyon along the way. Around 45 minutes later, you'll scurry over some boulders to finally reach the falls.

The best time to visit Dudhsagar Falls is right after the monsoon , when the water is gushing. Tourists who wish to take a dip can rent a life jacket from vendors at the attraction.

Hot tip: Only 300 jeeps are allowed to enter Dudhsagar Falls every day, although tour operators have been requesting to increase the capacity during high season. Make reservations in advance, or prepare to wait in long lines if you wish to visit.

Goa is home to a ton of markets, but none offer the liveliness or selection of products found at Anjuna Market. For roughly 50 years, hundreds of vendors have been setting up shop on Anjuna Beach every Wednesday to tempt free-spirited travelers with hippy-inspired trinkets and souvenirs.

Ornate textiles, woven bikinis, sculptures of deities, dreamcatchers, hammocks, magnets, t-shirts with sassy slogans, beaded jewelry, toys – you name it, you can probably buy it here.

But even if you don't want to shop, you should still make a point to visit Anjuna Market for the sightseeing. The flea market is a swirling array of colorful wares, salespeople driving hard bargains, big bags of fresh spices, and street food galore. The vibe alone is one of the reasons why Anjuna Market is one of the top places to visit in Goa.

Address: 10 St. Michael's Vaddo South, Anjuna, Goa

Make your way to the laid-back city of Panaji to visit another one of Goa's historic churches: The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

The pristine white church, which dates back to the early 17th century, stands atop a zig-zagging staircase that resembles the tiers of a wedding cake. Its perfectly symmetrical Portuguese Baroque architecture is a sight to behold. At night, twinkle lights make the church look like something out of a fairy tale.

While not ornate, the church's interior boasts bright, colorful decorations. Tourists can see the elegant main altar (dedicated to Mary, mother of Jesus) and gilded pillars with elaborate carvings. Vines of blue and white blossoms often adorn parts of the vaulted ceiling around various holidays.

Dec. 8 marks the Festival of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception , a major holiday at this church. Swing by to see it decked out in tons of colorful lights.

Address: Rua Emídio Garcia, Altinho, Panaji, Goa

See what houses in Goa looked like during the 17th century at Braganza House, a historical mansion that flanks the village square in Chandor. It's divided into an east and west wing, both of which are available for tourists to poke around at their leisure.

The east wing is home to members of the Pereira-Braganza family. It boasts a massive ballroom with an impressive marble floor, along with a small chapel that contains one of St. Francis Xavier's fingernails. This part of Braganza House also brims with antiques and international artifacts.

The western side preserves the original grandeur of Braganza House. Owned by the Menezes-Braganças, the museum-like space features an expansive library with 5,000 leather-bound books from the private collection of journalist Luis de Menezes Braganza, who played an important role in the Goan independence movement. Tourists can also see breathtaking Belgian glass chandeliers, antique portraits of the family, and Chinese porcelain.

Address: Guddi-Chandor Road, Culsabhatt, Chandor, Goa

Located just 12 kilometers north of Molem , Mahadev Temple gives tourists a chance to see a structure that has been standing since the 12th century. Its remote location helped it survive centuries of conquests by the Portuguese and Muslim colonialists. Legend has it that the black basalt temple , which was built to honor Lord Shiva, has a resident king cobra. Step inside to see the detailed work of artisan carvers, including the lotus flower on the ceiling.

If Braganza House got you excited, just wait until you see Palácio do Deão. The 200-plus-year-old palace in Quepem has been restored to its original glory. It features a blend of Indian and Portuguese architecture. Tourists are welcome to explore the heritage home, including its game room and library filled with rare tomes.

The property also features sweeping tropical gardens that make for a pleasant place to spend the afternoon. Consider making reservations in advance for afternoon tea on the terrace.

Address: Opposite Holy Cross Church, Quepem, Goa

Official site: http://www.palaciododeao.com/

Goa's unique culture and heritage are on full display at Mangeshi Temple, a beautiful spiritual attraction that's been standing for roughly 450 years. The pastel blue, gold, and white temple features a seven-story tower that pays homage to one of the Hindu god Shiva's many incarnations: Manguesh. The temple structures surround a sacred pool of water , which is thought to be the most historic part of this religious site.

You can watch devotees perform pujas (worship rituals) at the temple every day. If you happen to be there on a Monday, you can watch the Manguesh idol taken out for a procession, complete with music, in the late afternoon or early evening.

Address: Dinanath Mangeshkar Road, Mangeshi Village, Mardol, Goa

Lace up your most comfortable pair of walking shoes and head to Panjim for a stroll around Fontainhas, one of Asia's only Latin quarters . Once the headquarters for the Portuguese government in Goa, the UNESCO-recognized Heritage Zone features colonial houses and cottages decked out with pastel and fluorescent façades. Each of the houses get a fresh coat of paint after the monsoon season every year, ensuring that they always look vibrant for visitors. Don't miss the district's namesake Fountain of Phoenix.

You can explore the area on your own, or book a walking tour for a more in-depth look at the history of this fascinating neighborhood. Either way, you'll definitely work up an appetite as you wander the narrow cobblestone streets and snap photos in front of the candy-colored buildings. Refuel at one of the decades-old cafés or bakeries in the neighborhood. Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro , a bakery near Mary Immaculate School, is known for having a wide selection of tasty Goan cakes and sweets.

Wildlife lovers should put Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary at the top of their Goa travel plans. The state's largest protected wildlife area, which spans 240 square kilometers and is also home to Molem National Park , is home to all kinds of amazing creatures, including the black leopard, Bengal tiger, Malabar giant squirrel, wild boar, slender loris, Indian rock python , and ruby-throated yellow bulbul (Goa's state bird).

Hiring a guide through a travel agent, and visiting the sanctuary in the early morning or late evening increases your chances at catching a glimpse of these animals. During the daytime, you can see the natural wonders of Dudhsagar Falls and Devil's Canyon . You can also check out the Tambdi Surla Temple , a temple that has survived since the 12th century, thanks to its remote location in the forest. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings of the Hindu gods Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.

Dating back to 1493, Reis Magos Fort was once a defense structure aimed at protecting the area's then-capital, Goa Velha. Today, the fort is a top attraction in Goa for tourists looking to take a break from the beaches and dive into the state's fascinating history.

The site has a storied past not only as a military outpost, but also as a hospital and a jail. Tourists can see cannons, a small museum exhibit on the fort's history, and jaw-dropping views of the Mandovi River .

After your visit, head to the town's other famous attraction: Reis Magos Church. The pristine white church is one of just a handful of churches in Goa that has processions and re-enactments for the Feast of the Three Kings (Epiphany). Inside the structure, you can see an impressive multi-colored wood relief of a scene that depicts the Three Wise Men handing gifts to the Baby Jesus.

Address: Nerul-Reis Margos Road, beside Three Kings Church, Bardez, Verem, Goa

More on India

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations

Your Trip to Goa: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Goa Dabolim International Airport Guide
• Top Places to Visit in Goa
• 72 Hours in Goa
• Day Trips From Goa
• Top Things to Do
• Best Beaches
• Yoga Retreats and Wellness Resorts
• Top Restaurants in Goa
• Nightlife in Goa

Let's face it. Most people visit Goa for the beaches and parties. However, there's plenty more to experience. The Portuguese occupied Goa for about 450 years until the Indian Armed Forces finally drove them out in 1961.   The state was also a significant destination on the 1970s hippie trail. As a result, it's quite unlike anywhere else in India and has a distinctly different culture. This Goa guide will help plan your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Goa's tourist season runs from October to March, when the weather is warm and dry. Most beach shacks open in November. They pack up by April or May due to the extreme heat and humidity. The southwest monsoon brings rain from June to September.
• Language: Konkani is the native language of most Goans, however, English and Hindi are widely understood and spoken.  
• Currency: Indian rupee.
• Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. Goa does not observe daylight saving time.
• Getting Around: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are the most common methods of transportation. Unfortunately, the notorious Goan taxi mafia keeps fares high and prevents app-based cabs such as Uber from operating. There is a state-run, app-based taxi service called GoaMiles . The Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus is an inexpensive way of reaching Goa's tourist attractions. Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is popular and affordable.
• Travel Tip: The monsoon season in Goa is ideal for spending time in the state's mountainous interior hinterland. White water rafting is possible.

Things to Do

Most people are surprised at how many things there are to do in Goa apart from the beach and nightlife. This includes water sports and adventure activities , hot air ballooning, cooking lessons, exploring old forts, seeing the spice plantations, browsing museums and art galleries, bird watching at Doctor Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, hiking in the nature reserves, yoga and natural therapies, cruising along the Mandovi River in a private yacht , betting at the casinos , listening to live jazz music, and of course shopping. Active travelers can go on these off-beat electric bicycle tours or walking tours .

Three of the main things to do in Goa are:

• Hanging out at the Wednesday flea market at Anjuna beach, Friday Goa Collective Bazaar at Hilltop near Vagator, and Saturday Night Market at Arpora (between Anjuna and Baga). These markets are seasonal.
• Wandering around Old Goa and the Fontainhas Latin Quarter .
• Touring the Portuguese mansions in South Goa .

Find out more about the top places to visit in Goa and cultural things to do in Goa beyond the beaches .

What to Eat and Drink

Goan cuisine was influenced mainly by the Portuguese and is predominantly non-vegetarian. Lesser-known is the traditional cuisine of the state's Hindu Saraswat Brahmin community. Fish curry and rice is a ubiquitous staple in Goa. Common types of dishes you'll find on the menu are xacutti (coconut-based curry), cafreal (marinated and fried/grilled), sorpotel (stew), recheado (stuffed), ambot tik (sour and spicy), and vindaloo (fiery curry marinated with garlic and vinegar or wine). Goan chourico (sausages) and pao (bread) are popular as well. However, you'll need to venture away from the beach shacks to get authentic Goan food.

Feni is Goa's pungent local brew and the unofficial state drink. It's made from cashew fruit or the sap of coconut palms. Drink it with tonic water or lemonade and a slice of lime. Avoid cheap, commercially produced feni though, as it has a distinctively unpleasant smell. Instead, try and get your hands on some home-distilled feni ( Dudhsagar Plantation Farmstay makes their own). Or, a bottle of premium Big Boss or  Cazulo feni. It's now possible to go straight to the source of Cazulo feni, as the company has opened its cellar in the Cansaulim foothills for tours and tastings. Call 8605-008-185 to book. Joseph Bar in Panjim's Fontainhas Latin Quarter crafts some innovative feni cocktails. On the beach, King's beer goes well with a curry.

Explore the best Goan cuisine restaurants for all budgets and hottest bars and beach shacks in Goa .

Where to Stay

Goa's coastline extends for about 100 miles. Every beach is different , and there are so many types of accommodations ranging from beach huts to luxury private villas. It can be confusing! If you're looking for action, base yourself in North Goa because South Goa is relatively undeveloped and laid-back. Most of the luxury hotels are situated in South Goa. Palolem is the most happening beach in South Goa, while Agonda is ideal for chilling out and doing nothing. Patnem offers a bit of both. In North Goa, the Candolim-Calangute- Baga stretch of beaches is especially commercialized and gets super crowded during peak season. Backpacker hostels are prevalent near Anjuna beach, and the famous Wednesday flea market takes place there as well. The remaining psychedelic trance scene exists around Vagator beach, the Mandrem-Morjim-Ashwem stretch of beaches has become quite trendy, while Arambol beach is the new traveler's center with a wide range of alternative therapies. Capital city Panjim is centrally located between north and south Goa. Its Fontainhas Latin Quarter is an atmospheric neighborhood to stay in a restored Portuguese mansion.

Discover Goa's best homestays, budget accommodations, and yoga retreats, and wellness resorts .

Getting There

Goa has one airport. It's an international airport that operates out of a military airbase in Dabolim, roughly equal distance from Goa's north and south beaches. Most people take a prepaid taxi from the airport to their hotel. There's a counter in the arrivals terminal where you can book and pay. A shuttle bus service also runs from the airport to Panjim, Calangute, and Margao. It can be booked online here or at the airport.

Indian Railways train is another option for getting to Goa. It's handy for budget travelers, and conveniently has multiple stops in north and south Goa. The stretch from Mumbai to Goa along the Konkan Railway is particularly scenic. Here are the best trains from Mumbai to Goa .

Culture and Customs

Goa is more liberal than other states in India. This means women can wear short dresses and bikinis on the beach. There's no need to dress conservatively.

Scams are common in Goa, including the infamous gem scam . Beware of any Indian guys who try to befriend you. People offering to sell you drugs may also approach you. Don't accept, as dealers often have arrangements with the police. The police are corrupt and will extort money from tourists found in possession of illegal substances such as marijuana. The cops often demand bribes for traffic violations too. If you hire a motorcycle or scooter, make sure you carry your license with you and wear a helmet at all times.

While Goa has a reputation for being a party hub there are very strict drug laws. Those caught with drugs could face jail times of 6 months to 30 years and there is no option for bail.  

Money-Saving Tips

• Hotels offer huge discounts of up to 50 percent during the low season from May to September.
• There are many budget accommodations in Goa that don't advertise on the Internet. If you're not traveling during peak season (mid-December to mid-January), turn up and find a place and negotiate the rate.
• Stay in a dorm or private room in a backpacker hostel.
• Keep an eye out for happy hours and ladies' nights at bars for cheap or free drinks.
• Make sure you bargain at markets to get a good deal.

Encyclopedia Britannica. "Portuguese India."

Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Languages."

Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Laws."

Related Articles

More related articles.

• YouTube Channel
• Travel Resources

Goa Travel Tips: 13 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting

by Drifter Planet | Jun 26, 2016 | Goa , India , Most Popular Blog Posts

Travel Tips to get the most out of your Goa visit

I’m sure by now you know that I absolutely LOVE Goa . I love it so much that I spent many hours a few days back in my attempt to create the most detailed guide on the internet to North Goa ! 

In the past few years, I have seen many Goa travel tips on different websites that say things like “carry sunscreen” or “carry comfortable flat sandals or flip flops”.

Yes, these tips are correct but don’t you think they are pretty darn obvious? 

Of course, if you’re visiting a beach destination, you’re going to have to carry sunscreen and flip-flips.

Anyway, I want to help first-time Goa visitors and have decided to share a little more insight about things you need to keep in mind before visiting Goa. Here are some essential Goa travel tips to help you get the most out of your visit to this glorious destination.

Travel Tips for Goa

Table of contents, 1) visa for goa.. umm india.

Based on the volume of people who visit my website from other countries, I feel it is necessary to add information for obtaining a visa for India in this article.

If you don’t know this already – I’m married to a German and he often applies for a tourist visa to visit India. India doesn’t offer a visa-free entry OR a visa on arrival but you can apply for an eVisa. Sadly the government-run website for an eVisa for India or a general tourist visa for India is not so simple to use and usually gives errors on things as simple as picture upload.

Based on the number of painful hours my husband has spent on the Indian embassy’s eVisa website, I highly recommend you make things simpler for yourself and check iVisa . We availed their service when we were in the Philippines and it really made things simpler for us.

Click here to check your visa requirements for India

2) Goa High Season – When NOT to Visit Goa

Goa doesn’t just have high and low seasons, but it also has peak and moderate seasons. Here are some more details:

The low season is from May to mid-September, the High is from November to the middle of December and the peak is from the middle of December to the middle of January.

Avoid visiting Goa during the peak season because you will waste a lot of time in traffic jams.

If you must visit during this time, try to find the most secluded beaches. Chances are, even those beaches will not be secluded during the peak season.

During the New Year and Christmas time, many city folks from all over India (especially Delhi , Mumbai, and Bangalore) visit Goa.

3) Where Not to Stay in Goa

I have mentioned this before and I want to mention this again – Goa offers way more than Calangute – Baga – Candolim or Anjuna beaches. Trust me, these above-mentioned beaches are definitely some of the most crowded ones and no longer have a “Goa vibe”.

For more details about where to stay, check out my post about North Goa Beaches and beyond.

4) You DON’T need to book a place to stay in advance, unless…

Unless you’re visiting very late at night and don’t have time to hunt for a bed, or you’re visiting at peak season, which is December 20 to January 5, I’d recommend you not to prebook your place.

Most travel websites will brainwash you into booking a room because they sell rooms on their websites or on a commission basis. If you book in advance, you miss out on places that don’t advertise on the internet but only through word of mouth.

5) Save money from Goa Airport to your hotel

If you’re visiting Goa, most likely you’re going to arrive here by flight. Unlike most of India, tuk-tuks are not so easily available in Goa.

The cost of traveling in Goa is usually low except the taxis are expensive and unfortunately that’s the only mode of communication you will find at the airports. However, there is a way you can save money on your taxi fare.

At the prepaid taxi counter queue just at the exit gate of the airport, just ask around and try to find fellow travelers who are heading in your direction. Most likely, you will easily find people to share a taxi with for your destination. This has always worked for me!

6) Reaching Goa Airport by Bus

It is possible to get to the airport by bus. From North Goa (let’s say Morjim), take a tuk-tuk (or taxi) to Silom or Mapusa bus stand, and from there catch an express bus to Panjim (Panaji). From Panjim, you need to catch a bus to Vasco and it will drop you 2 KMs away from the airport.

Make sure you let the bus driver know that you have to reach the airport because there’s no proper bus stop where they will drop you off. Do this only if you’re ready to walk with your luggage.

Keep in mind that the last bus from Panjim to Vasco departs at 7 and the queue behind the ticket counter is usually massive, so take out an extra 30 minutes or more for this.

Similarly, if you’re in South Goa (let’s say Agonda), you need to take a tuk-tuk to the nearest bus stand and then take a bus to Margao Bus Terminal. From Margao, board a bus (or Kadamba shuttle) to Vasco. Try finding a bus that goes from Maragao to Vasco via Majorda. Again, make sure you inform your driver that you need to get to the airport so that he can drop you to the nearest point.

Do this only if you have a lot of time before your flight. It took us 4 hours to travel from Vagator to the airport by bus. Looking back, it isn’t worth the hassle but those were my backpacking days when I had a lot of time and hardly any money.

7) Best Way to Explore Goa

If you like walking, you will only be able to explore your beach area and around. If you want to explore further, I’d recommend you rent a scooter.

Exploring Goa on a rented scooter is the best and the most affordable option. These scooters are usually available for INR 300 – 500 per day.

Please make sure you carry your driver’s license because there are many checkpoints. It is possible to rent cars too but many spots can only be accessed by scooters or on foot.

8) Where Not to Swim in Goa

In Goa, certain areas are marked by red flags which means it’s dangerous to swim there. The sea will appear to be calm but the undercurrents are powerful and dangerous. If you go inside, you will be transported to the open sea much faster than you can swim.

These are the situations when people drown because they try to fight to current in their panic. Most likely, you will see a lot of people in the water already but please follow the rules and don’t be an idiot.

Oh and on a side note, don’t swim in the stretch of ocean in front of Curlees and Shiva Valley of Anjuna because I have personally seen people puking in that water after Anjuna’s crazy parties.

9) A tip about Goan Food

Do you love Indian food? You’re going to LOVE Goan food. However, keep in mind that the Goan curries are spicier than most of the Indian curries.

If you can’t handle spice, make sure you inform your restaurant staff to go easy on the chilies. I love spicy Goan food but San can’t handle the chili overdose.

10) How not to get ripped off

Shopping in Goa is fun because of the variety of things that you can buy. Lamps, incense sticks, swimsuits, clothes, jewelry, tea, spices, fruits – almost everything that you will possibly need will be available on the streets.

While grocery stores have fixed prices, street shop vendors will hike the price when they see that you’re not a local.

To avoid getting ripped off, you need to learn how to haggle like a pro. As a rule of thumb, cut the quoted price in half and then negotiate your way to a middle figure. Do not forget to smile when you do this.

If you find something unique at a high price, most likely it’s handmade, and maybe it’s worth the price, so just buy it.

11) Find the best parties in Goa

Ok, so you have heard that Goa is the birthplace of psychedelic trance and you want to experience a typical old-school Goa trance party. But how to find the best PsyTrance parties? Well, stay in the Vagator area and just follow the music. There is usually a party every night.

Ask around and you will find out. When you reach the party and if you ever get hungry, you will definitely find affordable snacks right outside the parties.

Outside every party are rows of Ammas (older mother-like women) with stoves selling cheese omelet buns, burgers, cigarettes, water, and tea. These Ammas usually know where is the next party so just ask them.

12) Be Safe in Goa

While Goa is safer than most of India and perhaps many parts of the world, it doesn’t hurt to take typical safety precautions. Trust your instincts and don’t accept drinks from strangers. When in doubt, head to the nearest shop and contact a local to seek help.

13) Respect the Culture, the Nature and Goa way of life

Yes, Goa is perhaps the most open-minded destination in India and the locals are liberal. But please don’t treat their home as your “nonstop party on the road” destination.

I don’t know why I’m even typing this but I feel it’s my responsibility to inform you that you should cover yourself a little more than what you do at the beach if you end up visiting any of the churches.

Please don’t leave your trash on the beach. If you find any, just pick it up and put it in the nearest dustbin. Oh and don’t forget that most of the shacks (beach bar and restaurants) are run by families and you should not expect a five-star service. Appreciate what you get and don’t forget to smile.

Enjoyed these Goa travel tips? Why not share with a friend? If you live in Goa or have visited it a few times, why don’t you add your own tip in the comments?

Pin to save the post for later

You may also like:

North Goa – Beaches and Beyond

Goa Flea Markets

Why I love Goa and Keep Going Back

Things to do in  Hampi

11 Hippie Destinations in the Himalayas

Related Posts:

Thanks for the tips!!

I have a confirmed booking at ITC Fortune Select Regina, Candolim, Goa. Three Deluxe room for 3 days (13th Dec to 16 Dec ‘18). Price Rs 6500 per night stay(all inclusive price including breakfast). Anyone interested may contact me ( 9099022989). Actually it a group booking but 3 of our colleague are not joining due to last minute unavoidable reasons. It’s a 4 Star property at beautiful Candolim beach.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a knack for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

Not sure where to start? Start with some of my most popular posts .

Pin It on Pinterest

Last Updated on September 19, 2023 by Drifter Planet

Why Visit Goa? Best Reasons to Visit Goa Every Year

• 5 months ago
• Read Time: 3 minutes
• Leave a comment

With the top reasons to visit Goa every year, undoubtedly, this place is love at first sight for travel enthusiasts. This small state is more than just beaches, drinks, and parties. It is a stunning blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, and when it is combined with the sun, sea, sand, food, seafood, and spirituality of this place, it can leave you awestruck!

You shouldn’t be doubting why this state is famous among tourists. It is the most popular holiday destination in India not just because of its beaches but also for its pleasant weather, unending nightlife, lip-smacking seafood, adventurous water sports, and more.

There’s no shortage of reasons for travelers to visit this beautiful destination. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why you must visit Goa every year, either solo or with your friends and family.

Contact us for Booking: +91 9359983588

The Best Reasons to Visit Goa

Here are some of the best reasons that can influence you to visit Goa every year:

●Stunning Coastline

Goa boasts a long coastline decorated with some beautiful beaches. From the serene shores of Palolem to the vibrant energy of Baga Beach, you can find a beach for every mood. Whether you crave relaxation under the sun, enjoy water sports adventures, or live at lively beach shacks, Goa delivers something for everyone.

●Thrilling Water Sports

Goa’s beaches aren’t just for sunbathing. It is an ideal place for water sports lovers, offering a wide range of opportunities to enjoy the water in various ways. Some of the beaches, like Anjuna, Calangute, Candolim, Sinquirim, and Vagator, offer different water sports activities. Some of the exciting water sports activities in Goa include jet skiing, flyboarding, kayaking, banana boat riding, speed boating, parasailing, and more.

●Scrumptious Seafood

Goa’s unique history, blending Portuguese and Indian influences, is reflected in its delectable cuisine. Explore a world of flavors with fresh seafood curries, vindaloo variations, and Portuguese delicacies like xacuti. You can find a wide range of seafood restaurants in Goa that offer delectable cuisine that you must try while on your trip.

●Entertaining Carnival Festivals

Experience the electrifying energy of Goa’s Carnival celebrations. Witness vibrant parades, lively music, and the carefree spirit that takes over the state during this time. This festive explosion typically happens in February. This festival is specifically dedicated to the Portuguese era, where people wear traditional clothes and drink, eat, dance, and have lots of fun. This festival starts on the streets of Panaji, Margao, and goes beyond the lanes of the town.

●Thriving Nightlife

Goa’s nightlife scene caters to all preferences. From pulsating nightclubs in Baga to laid-back beach shacks with live music, Goa offers the perfect setting to unwind and have fun after dark. To dance all night long, Goa boasts a wide range of clubs that allow tourists to drink, dance, eat, and party all night. Some of the best party clubs in Goa include Tito’s Bar and Club, Soro-the Village Pub, SinQ Nightclub, and more.

●Architectural Delights

If you are willing to enjoy the real essence of Goa, immerse yourself in Goa’s rich heritage. These places might enable you to feel peace, legacy, and history. These showcase the most stunning Portuguese design and architectural beauty that you can’t miss while on your trip. Explore Portuguese-inspired churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, majestic forts like Reis Magos, and colorful colonial houses that whisper stories of the past.

●Budget-Friendly Shopping

There are several markets in Goa that grab the attention of tourists from all over the world. From flea markets to Saturday markets, herbs and spices markets to clothing markets, Goa offers top options for shopaholics where you can buy jewelry, crafts, showpieces, boho dresses, handbags, and more. Some of the famous shopping places in Goa include the flea market at Anjuna, the Mapusa fish market, CocoRoors at Anjuna, and more.

The Bottom Line

Goa is a vibrant and stunning place that is full of new things that you can see and experience. Now that you have some of the top reasons to visit, are you now fully convinced to visit Goa?

Well, if you are still confused about where you can stay while on your trip to Goa, we would suggest White Flower Cottages!

It is the best resort in North Goa that can allow you to experience the real essence of Goa. Its peaceful and soothing environment can elevate your staying experience. You can even enjoy mouthwatering global cuisine at their in-house restaurant.

So, pack your bags today and get ahead with a true Goan adventure!

    Contact us: +91 9359983588

Follow us:  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Twitter

Explore the White Flower Cottage Resort in Vagator, Goa and make your holiday special & memorable with us. Choose the Perfect Destination to stay with families and couples for enjoying their special time.

Related Posts

Things NOT to Do in Goa for a Hassle-Free Trip

Goa Feni: The Spirit of Goa in Every Sip

• 2 weeks ago

The Ultimate Guide to a Solo Trip to Goa

Best Place to Stay in North Goa for Family

• 1 month ago

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

46 Best Things To Do in Goa

This website contains no sponsored content. The content is written entirely on my own and is based on my personal experience and extensive research. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

In this post you will learn all about the best things to do in Goa. We will cover

• the best beaches in Goa
• the best churches and temples in Goa
• the best forts, museums and other tourists attractions
• the best sunset points in Goa, Goa filming locations and must-try experiences in Goa.

Goa is my most favourite travel destination in India. I visit it at least 2-3 times every year and, in total, I must have been to Goa over 20 times. Every trip to Goa is special in its own unique ways and every trip, I discover new facets of Goan beauty.

In this post I am going to share with you a long list of the best things to do in Goa that I have personally curated based on my vast Goa travel experience.

For a perfect Goa trip, visit places from the list below that excite you, add some interesting experiences to your itinerary and park enough time in your schedule to simply chill in a classic Goan susegaad (laidback) way.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Best Things to do in Goa: Why visit Goa

Is goa worth visiting.

Goa is absolutely worth visiting for every type of tourist. Goa presents endless opportunities to tourists in the form of spectacular beaches, forts, monuments, temples, churches, delectable food and unique cultural offerings.

What is Goa famous for?

Goa is famous for its unique Indo-Portuguese cultural blend, its many stunning beaches, old temples and churches. It is also popular amongst tourists for its vibrant nightlife and seafood.

What is special in Goa to buy?

The best things to buy in Goa are cashews and feni (indigenous Goan liquor). But many foreign tourists also buy spices, beachwear, handbags and other locally made products sold in Goan flea markets.

If you are planning to carry alcohol bottles with you back home, please read all the rules in my post on travelling on a domestic flight with alcohol here .

Top 5 Things To Do in Goa

I will explain all the best things to do in Goa in greater detail later in the post. But first, here are my top 5 things to do in Goa

• Visit Chapora fort for sunset
• Visit the monuments in Old Goa and walk through the lanes of Foutainhas
• Take in the spectacular panoramic view from Cabo de Rama
• Try out Goa’s local food and drinks (Seafood, feni and King’s)
• Chill for hours on a gorgeous Goan beach

About the name

• Goa has been known by various names since ancient times.
• Some of the names by which it has been known are Gomant, Govarashtra, Goparastra, Govapuri, Gopakpuri, Gopakapattana and Gove.
• While some of the names referred to the whole region, a few referred to its capital or its primary port.
• All the Hindu names associated with Goa refer to it as the land of the fertile soil.
• The Portuguese changed the name of this region to its present day name ‘Goa’ 400 years ago.

Goa trip: Planning Tips

Goa map and where is goa located.

Goa is located on the western coast of India. It is located to the South of Maharashtra and to the North of Karnataka.

Distance to Goa from major cities is as follows:

Mumbai to Goa: 591 kms (12 hours by road) Pune to Goa: 448 kms (9 hours by road) Kolhapur to Goa: 220 kms (4.5 hrs by road) Bangalore to Goa : 562 kms (11 hours by road) Mangalore to Goa: 345 kms (7.5 hours by road)

How to get to Goa?

You can travel to Goa by road from any of the cities in India

You can also take a flight to Goa. Goa has an airport that is connected to all the major cities in India as well as a few international destinations.

You can also take a train to Goa. Madgaon, Vasco de Gama and Karmali are the major junctions connecting Goa with the rest of the country.

The Konkan Railway route connecting Mumbai and Goa is particularly scenic. Book the Tejas Express for the best views.

You can even visit Goa on a cruise from Mumbai by Cordelia cruises.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Goa is between November and February when the weather is the most pleasant with temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees celsius.

If you are a nature-lover, not specifically seeking Goan beaches, shacks and parties, you can also visit Goa during monsoons i.e. between June and September. Goa is most scenic during monsoons but be willing to navigate through heavy rainfall in June and July.

How to get around in Goa

• Goan public transport does not have great connectivity and is best avoided. But if you are on a budget, you can use a train or a public bus to travel from North Goa to South Goa or vice versa. (Check timings beforehand)
• The best way to get around in Goa is by renting a two-wheeler or a car. Petrol is much cheaper in Goa than its neighbouring states and rental vehicles are easily available at all tourist locations.

How long to visit Goa

• You can easily visit all the touristic highlights of Goa in 4 days (North Goa and South Goa both)
• But to experience the true essence of Goa – its unique susegaad vibe (laidback attitude), it is recommended that you stay in Goa for at least 7 days and divide your stay between North Goa and South Goa.
• You can even use Goa as your workation base and stay for longer periods of time in Goa. There is enough to explore in Goa even you stay there for a month

Read my article on how many days are enough in Goa here

Important Goa Travel Tips

• Goans love their afternoon siestas. So many local shops remain shut in the afternoon.
• Expect crowds and over commercialisation in touristy areas like Candolim, Calangute and Baga.
• Even between November and February, the sun is quite harsh during the afternoons. Always wear a 50 SPF sunscreen in Goa like this one to avoid sunburn (I learnt this the hard way!)
• To experience the true magic of Goa, keep a few days free to simply relax on a beach
• Goan taxi unions are strong and unless you a rent a car online, you will have to hire a cab from your local area only.
• Goamiles is the best app and often the cheapest too for booking a cab from the airport to your stay area.
• Paid parking is available near most major tourist attractions
• Avoid accepting any food or drinks from strangers. It could be a scam and you could get arrested for wrongful possession of banned substances.
• Always check most recent user reviews of accommodations before booking. Many properties have shut down in the last couple of years.
• Dress modestly when visiting churches and temples.
• It is also advisable to keep a mosquito repellent like this one handy (if staying at homestays, hostels or visiting Goa between June to February)

Where to stay in Goa

Best areas to stay in goa.

The three best areas to stay in Goa are:

Candolim, North Goa: Best for first-time visitors to Goa, close to most touristic attractions, plenty of restaurants, cafes, shacks and clubs around. If money is not an issue, stay at the luxurious Taj Aguada for royalty-like treatment and the best views. For more pocket-friendly options, stay at a 3 star property in Candolim. These places are popular and always book fast. Check out availability here.

Palolem, South Goa: Most scenic base in South Goa. Excellent for couples, solo travellers and foreigners. Close to many South Goan attractions, beaches and trekking trails. There aren’t many luxury properties here. The best one for couples, families and foreigners is The Arks Comfort. For solo travellers, I like The Lost Hostel, Palolem for its clean dorms and terrific location 2 mins away from the beach.

Ashwem / Mandrem, North Goa : Quaint, scenic area in North Goa ideal for families, workations and longer stays. Favourite amongst foreigners too. The Boomerang Resort here is a small colony-like resort property here that’s just perfect!

Looking for the best places to stay in Goa?

See my guide on the best 17+ areas to stay in Goa for all travel types.

With the best accommodation options for all budgets!

1 to 6: Best Beaches to visit in Goa

It is one of the southernmost beaches in Goa.

Clear waters, golden-white sand and a large overlooking cliff on one side make it one of the most scenic beaches in Goa.

It is also an excellent base to take boatrides to smaller nearby islands like the honeymoon island and monkey island.

You can also head out on an eagle feeding trip from Palolem.

Other scenic but much lesser known beaches like Talpona and Patnem are right next to it.

2. Cavelossim

Cavelossim is a spectacular white sand beach in South Goa.

The beach itself is very clean and usually pretty deserted. You can come here for a swim or to spend some quality time with your loved ones.

There aren’t many shacks on this beach. But there are many renowned local seafood restaurants in the nearby area.

Many luxury hotels are located in this area thanks to its etheral beauty.

3. Benaulim

The most family-friendly area in all of South Goa is Benaulim.

The beach itself has the best blend of natural beauty and touristy shacks.

You can come here with your kids, for a walk, for sunbathing in the afternoon or even for a candlelight dinner in the evening.

The nearby area also has many nice restaurants, pizza places and bakeries.

Vagator beach is a beautiful beach under Chapora fort. You can come here for excellent sunset views and watersport activities.

For couples – Visit the smaller beach next to Vagator, called Ozran beach. It is prettier and far less crowded.

Also visit the hundreds of bakeries and cafes in this area. Jaws is my favourite bakery in North Goa and I also love Café Morgan’s (ten minutes away) for the best sunset views from a café.

This beach is a favourite amongst foreigner and locals looking for a quieter beach.

The beach is a unique white sand beach surrounded with dense palm trees.

At the entrance, you will find a turtle nesting centre and in evenings (during nesting season) you will be amazed to find many Olive Ridley turtles on the shore here.

Plenty of sunbeds are available all across the beach for spending a lazy afternoon under the sun.

Arambol is the most foreigner-friendly beaches in Goa.

There are many shacks all along the beach.

The waters are excellent for a swim. You can also take surfing lessons here.

There are many yoga classes, in the nearby area.

A foreigner’s market sits here in the evenings selling unique handicrafts, beachwear and more.

You can also check out the beautiful sweet water lake next to the beach.

Note on Calangute and Baga

These are the most popular beaches in Goa and unfortunately the least beautiful.

They are best base for those interested in partying and nightlife but the beach itself is always too crowded and dirty.

For watersports, surfing or sunbathing – choose other beaches in North Goa that are quieter and cleaner.

7 – 11 Best Churches/Temples in Goa

7. mangeshi temple.

Mangueshi Temple is a beautiful, serene temple that’s very popular among Shiva worshippers.

In the 16th Century, the Portuguese, upon their conquest tried to destroy this temple. However, before its destruction, the linga was moved to its present day location and the temple was protected from destruction.

The Deepasthamba (lamp tower) in the courtyard of the temple is its highlight.

You can find parking outside the temple. Wear modest clothes.

8. Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the oldest churches in Goa.

It exhibits a Boroque style of architecture. Its interiors are fairly simple.

The exterior façade, however, is unique as it uses laterite stone – a rarely used material for church façades.

The place is usually very crowded during the day as it is a mandatory stop on all tourist tours. Expect long queues to enter (Plan around 30 to 45 minutes)

Once inside, see the remains of St. Francis Xaviers – the highly revered priest who played a key role in the introduction of Christianity to Goa.

Timings: Mon to Sat – 9.00am to 6.30pm, Sunday – 10.30am to 6.30pm

9. Se Cathedral

The Se Cathedral is located right across the street from Basilica of Bom Jesus.

It is a beautiful Cathedral built using classis Portuguese Manueline style of architecture. Photography enthusiasts love capturing the façade of this Cathedral. The interior boasts of intricate wood work.

The Church was built to commemorate the victory of Afonso de Albuquerque over the Muslim rulers in the region.

Plan to spend half an hour here and longer if you are particularly interested in 16th century architecture.

Timings: 7.30 am to 6 pm (Monday to Sunday)

10. Church of St Assisi

This Church is next to Se Cathedral and yet another must-visit 17th century structure.

Its façade craftily uses the Portuguese-Manueline style of architecture. Unlike the simplistic interiors of its neighbours, this Church is lavishly decorated on the inside as well.

The place exudes a calm vibe and is usually not as crowded as the Basilica of Bom Jesus.

Photography is prohibited inside the premises of this church. Remember to dress modestly.

It also houses a museum of Archeological History. The pieces of art on display definitely make it completely worth a quick visit.

Timings: Museum (all days): 9.00am – 12.30 and 3.00pm to 6.30 Church Mon to Sat – 7.30am to 6.30pm

Quick note on visiting Old Goa: You can visit the churches in Old Goa entirely on your own. But honestly, the first time I did that, I hardly got any insights. The place doesn’t have many informative boards detailing the significance of the Portuguese structures. On one of my later trips though, I booked a guided tour and learnt so much more, it felt truly worth the time and money. I have also found a church walk tour that not only includes the above churches, but also takes you to the Gateway of the Palace of Yusuf Adil Shah and Church of St. Cajetan. You can check out the details of this Church Walk tour here .

11. Shantadurga Temple

The Shantadurga Temple is an important place of worship amongst the Gaud Saraswat community.

Many people who originally hail from Goa pay regular visits to this temple.

The original temple was destroyed by the Portuguese during the 16th century. The present day temple is one that has been constructed under the Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shahu’s dictate.

Inside, observe the deity holding two serpants – significant of Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu.

12-15 Best Forts in Goa

12. chapora fort.

The Chapora Fort is without a doubt my most favourite fort in Goa. Its laterite walls that overlook the Vagator beach offer the best sunset views in Goa. It is also famous for being a filming location of an iconic scene from a popular Hindi movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’.

The fort was originally called Shahapura or the place of Adil Shah of Bijapur dynasty. When the Portuguese entered Goa, it was taken over by them and the name changed to Chapora.

Later, during the reign of the great Chhatrapati Sambhaji, the fort was won back over when the brave Maratha warriors scaled up its vertically steep walls.

Today, however, the only element of its giant structure that is still intact are its fortified walls and the steps that lead up to the entrance.

When you visit the place:

• Plan to reach the place about an hour before sunset.
• Be prepared to climb up a flight of old stairs to reach the top (takes about 15 minutes)
• Pick a place on the wall to admire the glorious sunset. Be careful with kids. Going over the walls on the cliff end can be risky.
• Shop wonderful souvenirs and handicrafts at one of the many local shops lining the stairs.

13. Reis Magos

Many tourists visiting Goa choose to visit Fort Aguada over Reis Magos.

But personally, I prefer Reis Magos for its giant structure overlooking Mandovi river and Goan countryside and its historic significance.

Reis Magos was originally built during the Adil Shah reign and was later expanded and restructured by the Portuguese. It served as a giant fortified structure protecting the Portuguese from invasions and keeping the old capital of Goa – Velha in the safe custody of the Portuguese.

The protective function of this fort was later transferred to the newer Fort Aguada and Reis Magos was converted into a prison.

Today, the fort is open to tourists, is a home to cultural activities and is an excellent place to click some of the best panoramic shots of the Mandovi river and Goa’s current capital – Panjim.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday – 11.00am to 5.30pm

14. Fort Aguada

The most popular fort in Goa is Fort Aguada. It stands tall near the touristy area called Candolim.

The word Aguada originating from Portuguese signifies the primary purpose of this fort – water storage. The fort had the largest storage of water in Asia. Its strategic position near Mandovi river and Arabian Sea also protected it from invasions and the fort through its entire tenure remained a stronghold of the Portuguese.

The fort was constructed in the early 16th century and today, there are many things to observe inside the fort

• Laterite construction and the wide walls overlooking the Arabian Sea
• The large water resource that was used by Portuguese ships sailing further east.
• The old lighthouse (the first lighthouse ever in Asia)
• A new lighthouse offering panoramic views

In addition to this, you can also travel to the nearby area to see the Lower Fort Aguada overlooking the Sinquerim beach.

The Taj Aguada , which in my opinion, is one of the best luxury properties in Goa offering a Portuguese vibe coupled with top-notch hospitality is also located within the fort boundaries.

15. Fort Tiracol

Fort Tiracol is the northern most fort in Goa.

To reach the Fort, you have to drive to the banks of the river Tiracol and then take a short ferry across.

The fort is a 15-minute drive away from the riverbank.

The fort is now converted to a heritage hotel. Even though considerably smaller than other forts, the hotel management maintains the fort in good condition adding to the charm of the visit.

You can visit the fort during the day and click stunning pictures of the coastline.

If you want to stay here, see availability and prices here .

16. Cabo de Rama

Cabo de Rama is my favourite viewpoint in all of Goa. It is located in South Goa and is a short drive away from major tourist hubs like Benaulim, Cavelossim and Palolem.

The fort itself is not well maintained at all and most of its walls are damaged and broken. But the fort is an absolute must-visit for its breathtaking views. Although fairly deserted, you will find a few Instagrammers and influencers posing for pics and shooting reels here.

You can also climb down from the fort to reach the completely deserted gem ‘Cabo de Rama beach’

Also, if you want to skip the fort altogether, you can visit the Cabo de Rama view point – a vast open piece of flat land overlooking the South Goan coast.

17-18 Best Museums/Tourist Attractions

17. naval museum.

The Naval museum in Goa is truly remarkable. It is the only naval museum in Asia.

You get to see some of the naval aircrafts on display. A video documentary is also played thrice a day.

The exhibits are very well-maintained and seeing the collection of aircrafts, the history and growth of naval aviation invokes a sense of pride.

This is one of the only two military museums in India and absolutely worth a visit (Especially for Indians).

Timings: 9.30am to 5.30pm

18. Bigfoot Museum

The Bigfoot Museum or Ancestral Goa is a representation of Goan life in a museum-like manner.

You will find life-sized images of Goan locals, recreation of Goan houses, small bird aviary, shops selling local produce and handicraft and the highlight of the place – the tallest laterite sculpture that of Saint Mirabai.

A walk through the entire area will give you a glimpse into the origin of Goa, the legends that surround Goan history and the life of its locals.

The place is a must-visit for those travelling with kids for its educational value. Foreigners or those not acquainted with the unique history of Goa would also learn more about the roots of Goa from this place.

Timings: 9.00am to 6.00pm

19-21 Best offbeat places

19. cola beach.

Cola Beach is an offbeat place in Goa for two reasons – a) its remote location and b) its blue lagoon

To visit the place, you need to drive a car with excellent ground clearance as the road leading to the beach is rough. If not park your car where the road ends and walk your way down. You can also access it through Samyama Resort for a better pedestrian road.

Once here, get lost in pristine, unperturbed, raw natural beauty. Hang out at one of the restaurants or take a dip in the blue/emerald lagoon.

If the water is too high for you, you can even try paddling.

If you absolutely love spending time away from chaos, you can even stay overnight at the Blue Lagoon Resort or the Samyama Resort.

Quick tip: Reach Cola before sunset at all costs

20. Mollem/Dudhsagar/Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Mollem is a lush green widely spread out area in Goa that provides an excellent opportunity to explore Goa beyond the beaches. Remember, it is not a specific place in a

In this area, you will find:

• the stunning Tambdi Surla temple
• the Mahavir Wildlife sanctuary – home to a wide variety of animals and birds and accessible by car throughout. You can also head out on jungle safaris inside this area.
• The Dudhsagar waterfalls – one of the tallest waterfalls in the world

Visiting Mollem on a day trip is possible. Remember that the area is entirely deserted and pitch dark after sunset.

It is advisable to visit the place through an organised tour like this Dudhsagar Falls tour. You will be picked up from your hotel and dropped back by evening. En route Dudhsagar, you will pass by Old Goa and on your way back, you will stop at a Spice Plantation.

See more details of Dudhsagar tour here.

Do not the waterfalls solo or on scooter.

If you want to stay longer in this part of Goa, stay at The Dudhsagar Spa Resort.

21. Goa Islands

The state of Goa includes a few nearby islands that are not only offbeat but absolutely spectacular and full of natural and historic offerings.

The three islands that are particularly rewarding for tourists are

a) Divar Island: St Mathias Church, Our Lady of Piety Church

b) Chorao Island: Salim Ali Bird sanctuary, Boat ride, Feni urrak tasting

c) Sao Jacinto Island: St Hyacinth Church

Don’t expect to see awe-inspiring churches or architecture here. The roads on these islands are also not in the best condition.

But these islands are in a far more raw state than most of touristy North Goa. Spending a day visiting these islands helps you reconnect with the essence of Goa, its coastal beauty, water bodies and cultural blend.

The most interesting and fun way of exploring these islands (Divar and Chorao) is on a bicycle with a bunch of fellow travellers. Check out this Goa Island cycling trip for more info.

The trip usually gets full pretty fast as it only allows few people on the tour. Book it before it gets full.

22-28 Best Filming Locations

I don’t think there is any state in Goa which has served as a filmmaker’s muse as much as Goa has. From romantic movies to comedies to action films, there is a place in Goa that caters to every director’s vision.

Here are a few top filming locations in Goa that are worth visiting on your trip to Goa. (in addition to Chapora Fort aka Dil Chahta Hai fort listed above)

22. Dona Paula Jetty and Beach

The Dona Paula Viewpoint is a famous shooting point in Goa. But the movie for which this location is the most popular is Singham. A famous fighting sequence of the movie was filmed here.

On your visit, you can check out the stunning viewpoint, relax on one of the benches there while taking in the view or buy some quick snacks from one of the ‘Singham’ food stalls here.

On the other hand, the Dona Paula beach has appeared in other Rohit Shetty films like Golmaal. The beach is just a short distance away from the jetty.

23. Ancestral House/Casa Araujo Alvares

This house is most famous as being Singham’s house in the movie Singham. The house is called the Ancestral House and is located outside the Big Foot Museum in Loutulim.

The 250-year old house belonged to a lawyer of the Portuguese times and each of its rooms are well-preserved.

As part of a 20-minute guided tour, you can walk through each of the rooms, have a look at the centuries-old furniture, tapestry, utensils and room structures, house layout and home decor. A walk through the house gives you a first-hand feel of what life would look like in the era of the Portuguese.

24. Anjuna Beach

Remember Urmila Matondkar in Rangeela? Most of her beach sequences have been shot at Anjuna beach.

Anjuna beach has rocky formations inside it that appeal to the photography aesthetic of many.

That’s why the beach has appeared in many other Bollywood movies like Khamoshi and Dil Chahta Hai.

You can spend an afternoon on this beach sunbathing or come here in the evening to watch a sunset. Expect crowds on this beach irrespective of the season.

Read my article on things to do in Anjuna and Vagator

25. Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church

From Kabhi Haa Kabhi Na to Aashiqui 2 to Simmba, this grand Church has appeared in many Bollywood movies.

As a tourist, you can pay a quick visit to it when you are in Fountainhas (See more details below) or in Old Goa.

The place is always crowded and getting a picture without any strangers photobombing your frame is almost impossible.

A great way to capture the entire church is from the road divider in front of it. Instead of standing on the stairs, stand at the very end of the divider to get your picture clicked.

26. Coco Beach

The Coco Beach features in the movie Gehraiyaan – another movie which tastefully showcases Goan beaches.

In fact, the bungalow in the movie (which is shown to be in Alibaug) is in fact a stunning beach property on Coco Beach. It’s called Ahilya By The Sea and is a plush property ideal for a luxurious time out in Goa. ( Check availability here )

Coco Beach, is in fact, a terrific way to step away from the crowds in North Goan regions of Candolim, Calangute, etc without having to travel too far. It is located just about 10 minutes away from Candolim and lies on the foot of the Reis Magos fort.

27. Parra Road

The current hotspot in Goa is Parra Road. This is a narrow road lined with coconut trees on both sides – its probably the prettiest road in all of Goa. But it rose to fame when it featured in the movie ‘Dear Zindagi’.

Today, it is flooded with young tourists all day long. Everyone wants to get a good pic of here to add some oomph to their gram.

You will find vendors here offering cycles on rent to help you recreate the Dear Zindagi shot.

The road stays fairly busy with vehicular traffic. So be careful when clicking pictures here.

28. Chapel of our Lady of the Mount

This Chapel is technically situated in the heart of Old Goa. But very few tourists visit it as it is not located in the same complex as the Basilica of Bom Jesus.

This Chapel has featured in various Bollywood movies like Golmaal, All The Best, etc.

The chapel is built on a small mount near Church of St. Catejan. The church overlooks the Mandovi river and the beautiful Divar and Chorao islands.

29-45 Best experiences

29. walk at fountainhas.

Fountainhas is a dreamy pastel colony in the heart of Goa. It was a former residential quarter of Portuguese officers. But today, it is one of the most picturesque heritage area in all of Goa.

But a simple walk across the area would not help you much. To understand its historical signifance, as well as to make sure you see every hidden gem in its lanes, you should participate in a Fountainhas heritage walk .

A Fountainhas Heritage Walk is the perfect Old Goa experience for every tourist. A guide or a storyteller will educate you about the history of Fountainhas, introduce you to delectable snacks at the best bakeries and walk you to some beautiful art galleries. There can’t be a more authentic and fun way of spending a few hours in Goa. The heritage walk is quite popular and gets full pretty quickly. Check the availability here.

30. Engage in Watersports

What’s the use of visiting Goan beaches if you don’t want to indulge in watersports? Practically every major beach in Goa offers watersport activities.

But the ones offering the best views are:

• Sinquerim Beach, North Goa
• Ozran Beach, North Goa
• Palolem Beach, South Goa

Try out parasailing, paragliding, banana boat and jet ski.

Book your watersport activities on reaching the beach and bargain hard with all the vendors.

Watersport activities are shut during monsoons.

31. Go Kayaking

There are many places where you can go kayaking in Goa. Some places are Baga River, Sal backwaters, Agonda, Palolem backwaters, etc.

There are many guided tours that introduce you to kayaking and lets you explore the Goan waterbodies in a safe, guided manner. Check out this fun kayaking tour here.

32. Spice plantation tour

There are many spice plantations in Goa that have opened up to tourists.

Some famous spice plantations are Sahakari Spice Farm, Tropical Spice Plantation and Tanshikar Spice Plantation.

A spice plantation tour educates you on the various spice trees in Goa, takes you across the plantation on an interesting guided tour. The farm usually also welcomes you with a lovely welcome drink and serves freshly produced local lunch.

You can include a Spice plantation tour to your itinerary in the following four ways:

• A stop over to Sahakari Spice farms when you are moving your base from North Goa to South Goa (or vice versa)
• As part of a half day tour (if based in South Goa)
• As part of a full day tour to Dudhsagar from North Goa ( check this tour for more details )
• As part of a full day tour to Old Goa from North Goa ( check this tour for more details )

33. Flea market shopping

There is a flea market in and around every major tourist hub in Goa.

In fact, you will see a flea market

• at the entrance of almost every beach
• on the stairs going up to Chapora Fort
• Outside Old Goa Church

But the two flea markets that I find particularly worth visiting are:

• Anjuna Weekly Flea Market (takes place every Wednesday)
• Friday Night Market at Vagator

The flea markets are a great spot to buy beach cover ups, sarongs, handicrafts, hats, junk jewellery, bags and spices. Remember to bargain.

There is also a foreigner’s market at Arambol every evening where foreigners sell beaded jewellery, musical instruments, postcard and other interesting items.

34. Try out a Fish Thali

A big reason why many people crave a Goa trip is for its lip-smacking seafood.

Try out freshly cooked fish preparations served in a Thali (a big round plate full of food) at some of the all-time favourite restaurants in Goa like

• Ritz Classic, Panjim or
• Vinayak, Assagao

35. Binge on Goan Street Food

The best way to save money on a Goa trip is by eating at street food joints.

They serve delicious food at super cheap prices (A filling meal for two would cost only about INR 200)

Some dishes to try are the famous Ros Omelette, Poi (Bread), Goan Chilly Chicken and Xacuti.

36. Go Clubbing

Goa has become synonous with clubbing, especially amongst the youth.

The best area for clubbing is Baga and the best night clubs are

• Club Cubana

Base yourself in a closeby area to get the most of Goan nightlife.

If you want to party and dance all night long, but don’t want to spend a fortune on these clubs, you can simply walk into a beachside shack at Calangute or Baga or Anjuna that features a live DJ.

37. Have beer in a beach shack

The simple vision of spending a lazy afternoon at a Goan beachside shack drinking King’s Beer evokes such soothing emotions. In fact, as simplistic as it may seem, slowing down life and taking in its beauty with a drink to keep you company is the true definition of a Goan vacation.

Leave enough time in your Goa travel plan for such laid back afternoons. It’s a classic Goan experience that’s hard to replicate in other towns.

38. Check out the Drum circle at Arambol

Every evening a corner at Arambol beach comes to life as a large group of people play drums. The vibe is electric.

Its the best way to sa Goa evening as you watch the sun go down while tapping to the beat of drums.

39. Try your luck at a Goan Casino

Goa as something for everyone and casinos have been a huge draw for those who love to test their lady luck.

Personally, I am yet to try out a Goan casino, but those who have, love the experience and find it pretty engaging (if not addictive).

Some of the best casinos in Goa are:

• Deltin Royale
• Majestic Pride

These are located offshore (near Old Goa) and provide super entertainment, delicious buffet meals and an enthralling gaming experience.

40. Try out a massage by the beach

When chilling at a beach in Goa, you will find people who would drop by asking you if you want a full body massage.

Even though I find the idea of getting a massage from a random person on a beach anywhere not appealing at all, I am surprised to find a large number of locals and foreigners pampering themselves to a massage while laying on a sunbed on a beach.

Like with everything else, you need to bargain and decide on a price in advance to avoid getting ripped off.

41. Sign up for a Yoga class

If you want to take your yoga practices deeper, Goa has a suprising number of genuinely authentic yoga classes or yoga retreats.

Most require you to stay at the retreat for 3+ days. The one that’s particularly popular amongst Indians and foreigners is the Asthanga Vinyasa Kranti Yoga.

You could also take up a yoga class from one of the many at Palolem ( check the options listed here )

42. Bungee jumping

Goa has a quite a few bungee jumping options to cater to the tourists that need some adrenaline rush in their itinerary.

Jumpin Heights, the popular bungee jumping company of Rishikesh, is now in Goa and many of this crazy adventure sport have had a positive experience here.

Check out a bungee jumping tour at Jumpin Heights here.

43. Visit a café for sunset

I am a huge fan of cafés and I spend a great amount of time working out of cafés. That’s exactly why I was immediately attracted to the idea of watching the sunset from a café in Goa. The cafés near Anjuna that are particularly famous for their sunset views.

• Café Eva (most popular, super crowded at sunset)
• Purple Martini (a bit expensive, solid vibe, best sunset views)

But the café that’s my personal favourite, for its humble setting, level 1 sunset views and good food is the Morgan’s Place, Anjuna.

44. Dolphin Viewing

A rage that has recently gained momentum amongst Goan tourist is the dolphin watching boat ride.

You can book it at any tourist shop near Candolim.

But quick disclaimer – you may not be able to see dolphins on your trip or you could just spot the fin.

That said, if you have never seen dolphins in your life and would like to try your luck, head out on a dolphin watching boat ride. I don’t recommend going on a full day tour though. A 2-3 hour dolphin watching tour like this one is worth the time and money.

45. Take a dip in one of the many Goan waterfalls

Goa has so many unknown and relatively unpopular waterfalls spread out all across its mainland.

Like locals, the best thing to do if you spot a nice waterfall with a safe pond-like area is to take a dip in it.

Goa Itinerary

Check out these posts, where I make your trip planning easy by laying out day-wise itineraries for you.

3 days in North Goa: The best guide

5 days in Goa: An Ultimate Itinerary

Simplify your planning process. Check out Goa: Planned for you – a digital travel plan specially curated for you. In this plan, I recommend the best places and activities from the list above. All you have to do is book your Goa tickets and follow the plan as it is!

Goa: Planned for You

A handy digital travel plan that includes

• Specially curated stay recommendations
• restaurant suggestions
• a day-wise break-up of things to do
• a fully interactive Goa map
• special insights and lots more!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will a goa trip cost.

The cost of your Goa trip depends entirely on where you stay and what you do.

But if you want to visit Goa on a budget, read my article on 12 tips to visit Goa on a budget that actually work

Is Goa good for a family trip?

Goa is an excellent destination for a family trip. The beaches, churches, temples and other tourist attractions coupled with Goa’s many food options make it an ideal family travel destination.

In fact, you can see a glimpse of how we travel as a family in Goa in my vlog on North Goa.

What’s better North Goa or South Goa?

Ideally, you should divide your time in Goa in both North Goa and South Goa. But if you are a party animal, love crowds and want to be close to major tourist attraction, North Goa would be a better fit for you. If you like calmer beaches, natural beauty and a less commercial atmosphere, opt for South Goa.

Visiting Goa soon? Read more Goa articles here:

• 17 best areas to stay in Goa: A Detailed Guide
• 3 days in North Goa: A perfect itinerary
• 5 days in Goa: The best Goa itinerary
• 26 Goa travel tips that you must know before your trip
• Goa on a budget: 12 useful tips

Save for later

TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES

Here is a list of our favorite travel resources- the ones that I absolutely swear by when planning almost every trip. Go through this list to plan a hassle-free trip and save a lot of money!

Flight Booking: Check the availability of tickets, the best time to fly, and the cheapest fares on Skyscanner . You may also find a cheap flight via CheapOair

Accommodation: I absolutely love booking through Agoda . In most countries and particularly in Asia, I often find the best fares on Agoda. But I also love the no prepayment and no cancellation fee policy of Booking.com . For cheap accommodations and hostels, nothing beats Hostelworld .

Car Rentals: You may find and rent an appropriate car via RentalCars . It’s hassle-free and reliable.

Guided Tours: I absolutely love GetYourGuide for local sightseeing tours, walking tours, history tours, and food tours. The booking process is seamless, and the tours are super affordable. But in Asian countries, I prefer Viator or Klook for their affordably priced tours.

Lounge Access : Get Priority Pass – my personal favorite card that gives me unlimited access to premium airport lounges all over the world

Hey, if you found this post helpful, share it with more people or buy me a coffee !

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

Similar Posts

North Goa vs South Goa (for Parties, Couples and Families)

Wondering where to stay on your Goa trip and want the exact difference between North Goa and South Goa?…

How Many Days Are Enough in Goa: Explained for Every Travel Type

As someone who has been to Goa over twenty times and has written multiple posts on Goa, the one…

26 Goa Travel Tips: Important Must-Knows for Your Goa Trip

Travelling to Goa soon? In this post, I am going to share with you the Goa travel tips that…

Best South Goa Itinerary (for 1,2,3,4,5 days in South Goa)

South Goa is one of the most beautiful regions in India. Below is my detailed South Goa guide to…

What to pack for a Goa trip: A Practical No-Fuss List + Guide 2023

Wondering what to pack for a Goa trip? Don’t worry, I have got the best goa trip packing list…

How to Spend One Day In North Goa: 4 Solid Itineraries

Running short on time and want to spend just one day in North Goa?Don’t worry, it is possible to…

Top 20 Reasons Why Goa is Famous as India's Most Popular Tourist Destination?

What do you remember when the word Goa crosses your mind? Party on beaches? Calm and tranquil walks on unexplored beaches? New years parties? Sunburn? Private beach resorts? Goa has so much to offer for every traveller. It is a dream destination for many travellers, as it never disappoints any travellers who come over here to enjoy this little paradise on earth. Everyone knows some special feature Goa has to offer. It is rated as India's Most Popular Tourist Destination. This place is quite famous among many foreign travellers, people from all around the world visit this beauty and admired it. 

Why Goa is famous? What makes Goa so special? Goa is all about sun, sea and sand. Goa is popular for its range of seafood delicacy. Goa's weather will warm your heart if you are a nature's lover. Be it trekking, camping, spirituality, rejuvenation, Ayurveda spa and any relaxing activity by beach you name it and Goa has it all. 

From historical monuments to adventures sports or partying on the beach till dusk or renting out your private spaces by beach- All of these makes Goa indeed an India's Most Popular Tourist Destination. 

It is the smallest states in India in terms of geographical area. Yet Goa carries a vast spectrum of cultural practices. Portuguese, Maharashtrian and Konkani influences are evident in language, food, architecture, dress and dance. Numerous festivals are celebrated here that show affirmation to its multicultural glory.

Goa is a blend of ancient Portuguese colony, sandy shores, forests, monuments and delightful cuisine- you can't get enough of Goa. 

HERE IS A BLEND OF ANCIENT WHAY GOA IS FAMOUS AS INDIAN'S MOST POPULAR TOURIST DESTINATION -

1) AMAZING BEACHES :   Had to be the #1 on the list, Goa is world-famous for its beach life. From North to South of Goa for every five minutes of travel, you will find a new beach. Not only beaches, you will see the shacks with delicious seafood to offer. Goa is nothing without its beaches. Beaches add life to Goa and makes it a popular reason for people to visit it.

2) MAJESTIC CARNIVAL :   A grand parade in Goa that happens on every February. Whole Goa unites and people all around the world gather to celebrate this festival. 

This carnival festive culture dates back to the Portuguese era. You can people across the city and villages, dressed up in traditional clothing or a fancy dress. There will be good food and alcohol everywhere around making it a great event.

3) FESTIVAL VIBE IN DECEMBER :   Entire city will be decorated with lightings and every church would have been adorned with Christmas tree, Christmas parties and many events would be organised especially in the month of December. Lots of weddings are also organized in Goa 

4) THRILLING WATERSPORTS :

With plenty of beaches all over the state, guess what has to be included?? Goa is famous for adventure water sports, Goa offers the best water sports and other adventures sports such as scuba diving, paragliding, parasailing, banana boat riding and snorkelling.

5) MOUTHWATERING FOODS AT BEACH SHACKS :   Most of Goa’s beaches are outlined with shacks most of the year. Shacks comes in all shapes and sizes, from trendy shacks to traditional ones. Some of these shacks are open all day, every day, such as Cocktails & Dreams on Palolem. These restaurants serve a blend of traditional and continental food and lots of alcohol.

6) CHEAP LIQUOR :   Goa has lower tax rates for liquor all over the country, it is mainly to promote tourism in the State. It has low taxes even on other goods commodities. All these lower tax rates are applicable for International liquors as well. Alcohol served everywhere around the city, from small restaurants to big restaurants. So be ready and sure about your brand when you reach here in Goa.

7) DREAMY PORTUGUESE COLONY :   Goa was once a Portuguese colony, this has influenced the town and today you can see that Portugal touches all over the city. Goa is popular for ancient Portuguese colony and Portuguese style houses. You can rent these villas and stay here on your vacations. Many local homestays with Portugal essence are available here with great amenities. These kinds of luxury Portugal villas with pool are famous among Goa Honeymoon Packages . 

8) SPOTTING DOLPHINS :   Ever dreamt of spotting the dolphins in the middle of the beaches with your beloved one- Now you can make this dream come true, by booking a Goa Tour Package with Dolphins spotting activity. Loads of fish to try and not all for the meals, take a banana boat and head a bit out into the ocean. You will spot Dolphins within no time, Candolim beach offers this popular Dolphin spotting activity 

9) GOA MAY FENI NAHI KIYA TOH KYA KIYA :   Goa is famous for its Cashew nuts, feni and goa sausage. Popular country liquor made from coconut and cashew is known as Feni. It is intoxicating, has a long shelf life and it can be used in cocktails or mixed with cola, tonic water and lemonade. Most popular Goa Sausages - a spicy chorizo that’s available all over India, but best made in Goa is worth trying. Cashew nuts with excellent quality are available here at a much cheaper cost.

10) ENCHANTING WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES :   Goa may be a tiny state but it is packed with all the greenery that is suitable and supports many wildlife. There are plenty of wildlife sanctuaries in Goa such as Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao and Netravali wildlife sanctuaries. Here, you will find a wide range of Indian wildlife, from the Indian Bison to Sambar Deer to the Malabar Giant Squirrel. Many sanctuaries conduct wildlife safaris all year round, some sanctuaries even offering night tours.

11) MESMERIZING DUDHSAGAR WATERFALLS :   India's most attractive tourist destination- Dudhsagar waterfalls is a real beauty to be witnessed once in a lifetime. The best time to visit this marvellous beauty is just after the monsoons. It is India's tallest waterfalls, elevated at the height of 1017 feet. 

12) PARTY TILL YOU DROP WITH TRANCE PARTIES :   Trance parties at Goa started way back in the Seventies, it started creating buzz by early 2000. That culture is still been carried forward even now. Few parties on the beaches such as Anjuna, Vagator and Palolem continues parties till the early hours of the morning. 

13) HEADPHONE PARTY CULTURE :   India is a buzz loving country, well Goa is an international party hub. It is home to various party culture, including headphone party that is popular among other countries. Without disturbing the peace around the area this party occurs in silence. 

14) RELISH THE APPETISING VARIETIES OF SEAFOOD :   Seafood in Goa is quite famous with so many beaches. Fish and seafood are abundant. There are a lot of seafood restaurants in Goa that provides delicious food to savour. Variety of traditional food including exotic cocktails are famous in Goa.

15) TRY YOUR LUCK AT CASINOS :   You can play games like Rummy, Stud Poker, Black Jack and Roulette on one of Goa’s numerous cruise ship casinos. These luxury cruisers are furnished with everything you need to try your luck on a fun evening. From a host of gambling activities, music, food to drinks onboard a luxury ship- These liners are equipped with everything. Popular haunts include Deltin Royale Casino, Casino Carnival and Casino Pride. 

16) RENT OUT BIKES :   Explore the city, by renting a bike. It is an easy and convenient way to roam around the city and most inexpensive one too. It prices starts from INR 200 per day for gearless scooters. During peak seasons the price may vary.

17) CHILLAX ON LAIDBACK LIFESTYLE :   Goa is a kind of place that anyone wouldn't like to leave. Be it a week or a month you will still have so many things to explore even if you try a new activity per single day. Most famous activity among them is to relax and stroll around the beach at lunchtime with amazing views and divine alcohol. This is the most famous local tradition and popular tourist culture.

18) CHURCHES, MONUMENTS AND OLD GOA :   Old Goa was formerly the capital of Goa when Portuguese ruled. You can witness the beauty and architectural richness of the churches and cathedrals in old Goa even today. Must-visit place include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier, and is declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can even walk through the villages and view the old houses and feel the essence of what Goa was like centuries ago.

19) FORTS IN GOA :   Forts such as Aguada in Sinquerim and Cabo De Rama in Canacona are popular forts to visit in Goa. Chapora fort's history extends back at least three centuries. One should never miss the extraordinary views from Pernem, Vagator and the Arabian Sea. 

20) SHOPPING IN FLEA MARKETS FOR CHEAPS GOODS AND COMMODITIES :  Anjuna hosts one of the best shopping destinations in Goa on every Wednesday. Visit Anjuna Flea market where you can shop for everything from clothes and home décor to a variety of Indian spices and even musical instruments. 

https://www.travellersnearme.com/

Post Comments

Leave a reply, latest posts.

Grab Your Holiday Package

Book Now and Get 10% Discount instantly...Hurry Up Limited Time Offer

Booking Details

Personal details, booking information.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Los Angeles

The 13 best things to do in Goa

Whether you’re looking for beaches, parties or masses of culture, the best things to do in Goa have you covered

The beautiful Goa is not just the place to admire some jaw-dropping sunsets on sandy beaches (though it does that very, very well), it also holds the title of India ’s party capital. Yep, we know you’re visiting Goa with one or both of those two reasons in mind, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that the southwestern state is home to much, much more than beach bars. 

Goa is also steeped in history – a slow stroll through the state will open your eyes to ancient buildings with Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic or Portuguese origins, and the food reflects these rich cultures too. Sample delicious seafood, curry and more, and then simply decide to take a nap in a hammock on the beach. You’re in Goa, after all. And whenever you feel like seeing the sights, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Goa.   

RECOMMENDED:

🏖️ Check out the best beaches in Goa 🕺 And here are the 9 top spots for nightlife in Goa 🏨 Discover the  best hotels in Goa

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Fun things to do in Goa

1.  dudhsagar falls.

What is it?  It is simply not a trip to Goa without a visit to the Dudhsagar Falls. The name literally translates to ‘sea of milk’, which makes sense when you see it. The waterfall is 310 metres high and found deep within the Western Ghat Mountains, with three streams and four tiers. A must see. 

Why go?  The waterfall is the cherry on top of an already brilliant treck through the forest (one of South India’s most popular for intermediate to advanced level hikers). Plus if you don’t fancy the hike, you can still see the views getting there by car. 

2.  Fontainhas

What is it? Fontainhas is the oldest of Goa’s well-preserved Portuguese quarters. A UNESCO certified heritage zone, it is dotted with narrow streets that run between colourful, Portuguese-style villas dating to the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

Why go? A stroll through this neighbourhood is an essential Goa experience. The Chapel of Saint Sebastian, built in 1880, is a good point to pause, ponder and snap some Insta-friendly shots.

3.  Basilica of Bom Jesus

What is it? Built in 1605, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is the most known among Goa’s churches. It’s mostly famous for holding the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, revered as the ‘Apostle of the Indes’ among Roman Catholics worldwide.

Why go? It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a grand reminder of Goa’s rich religious traditions. The basilica is particularly popular for its architecture, featuring an ornate main altar, and several spectacularly carved statues, doors, and columns. There’s also a modern art gallery inside, featuring over 30 late twentieth-century paintings.

4.  Sahakari Spice Farm

What is it? An impressive range of spices, fruits, medicinal trees and herbs are grown at this lush green plantation spread over 130 acres.

Why go? Sahakari is lined with seemingly endless rows of India’s most cherished spices including turmeric, cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon, as well as a decent range of fruits such as papaya and jackfruit. You’ll get to learn about their nutritional qualities and even pick and taste a few samples. Make sure to wrap your day at the in-house restaurant for a delicious meal that puts the best of spices to use.

5.  Arpora Saturday Night Bazaar

What is it? This bustling night market comes to life every Saturday evening at 6 pm. It’s partly a large, open-air party with live music concerts and bars adding a great atmosphere to the score of stalls trading in goods of all sorts – cheap souvenirs, designer clothing, handicrafts, freshly ground spices and more.

Why go? Most of Goa’s finest boutique designers, restaurants and bars bring their best to you here, letting you sample a whole range of essential Goan experiences in a single night. Make sure to browse handcrafted jewellery at the Cocoroots and Cheshire Cat kiosks, stop for shawarma from Thalassa or for falafel from Janet & Johns, and wrap your evening at Boutique House Bar located within the market.

6.  Se Cathedral

What is it? Se Cathedral is considered to be the largest church in Asia. It’s also one of Goa’s oldest and has been in service since 1640, though construction on the structure began almost a century before that.

Why go? It’s among Goa’s most serene and atmospheric cathedrals, with a plain white façade and seated atop stretches of well-maintained green lawns. The church had two towers when it was first built, and while one collapsed in 1776, the other is well known today for housing a large bell known as the Golden Bell.

7.  Singbal’s Book House

What is it? Housed in a heritage building at the intersection of five roads in Panaji, this bookstore dating to 1936 is one of Goa’s oldest.

Why go? Singbal’s is a local legend. The space itself may not seem that impressive at first look; it’s deceptively small, with hundreds of books and magazines crammed into congested shelves. But with some patient browsing, you can uncover some rare gems. It is particularly well-stocked in travel and Goan history guides.

8.  Vagator Beach

What is it? A beach for those who like a bit of peace, but not isolation.

Why go? While it's not exactly deserted, Vagator makes for a pleasant beach to spend an afternoon (or even a few days). Umbrellas and loungers line the shore and restaurant staff will bring food and drink directly to you if you want. Other tourists come here too, but it's not a wild party beach. Nearby you can do a bit of sightseeing at Chapora Fort.

9.  Big Foot Cross Museum

What is it? This quirky museum houses a collection of over 1,500 Christian crosses gathered from around the world. It is located by the sprawling compounds of Ancestral Goa, an educational project which attempts to recreate a typical Goan village from 100 years ago.

Why go? If you’re a history or art buff, then you’ll likely be fascinated by the sheer variety of crosses found here. It’s a unique testament to Goa’s eccentric heritage. Right by the museum is a handicrafts fair which is also well worth visiting.

10.  Artjuna Garden Café and Lifestyle Shop

What is it? Housed in an old Portuguese villa, this café specialising in health food comes with a sprawling garden full of hammocks and mango trees. The attached lifestyle shop offers handcrafted jewellery and a selection of interesting souvenirs.

Why go? Artjuna is the sort of laid-back, upbeat space that’s quintessential Goa to many folks. It’s ideal if you’re seeking community; Artjuna is always drawing fun crowds with frequent movie nights and other fun events. It’s also a great place to unwind solo with a green smoothie and a book, which you can borrow from their in-house library.

11.  Mahadeva Temple, Tambdi Surla

What is it? This twelfth-century temple is Goa’s oldest. It’s known for having survived the Goa Inquisition possibly due to its location within the secluded forests of the Western Ghat Mountains.

Why go? Dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, this stone temple is remarkably quaint. It’s a treat for architecture lovers, featuring several intricately carved basalt stone pillars and sculptures that show mythological figures as well as symbols traced to a local dynasty, the Kadambas, who ruled the area between the tenth and fourteenth centuries.

12.  Anjuna Flea Market

What is it? This bustling weekly market was founded as a hippie exchange over three decades ago, where travellers short of money could barter or sell possessions. Today you’ll find vendors from around the country trading in goods ranging from pashmina textiles and terracotta sculptures to electronics.

Why go? It’s a paradise for thrift shopping, and arguably Goa’s best flea market. It’s also one of its most scenic, with pop-up stores taking up a considerable stretch of the beach. The market is understandably closed temporarily during the pandemic but expects to return to colourful form in the near future. 

13.  Gunpowder

What is it? Easily one of Goa’s best restaurants. It serves hearty dishes from across India’s southern coast in a quirky and cheerfully colourful setting.

Why go? You can’t go wrong with a meal here. Try their legendary beef fry or the masala prawn paired with appams – a type of pancake made with fermented rice batter in the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. They have plenty of delicious cocktails to go with your food too, often with generous doses of Feni, Goa’s very own liquor.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Goa Travel Guide 2024: How To Travel Within Goa, Clothing, and Safety Tips

Goa is one of the best places to visit in India and offers activities for all kinds of travelers. From exploring the ruins of Old Goa to watching dolphins in the Arabian Sea, there are a lot of things to do here.

And in order to enjoy it, you need to plan your trip to Goa carefully. This is why I have prepared this Goa Travel Guide.

In this travel guide, you will find all the information such as the history of Goa, how to travel in Goa, tips for responsible traveling in goa, ATM availability, and more.

An In-Depth Travel Guide For Goa

When to visit goa.

Goa is famous for its beaches and experiences a tropical climate, making winter the best time to visit the state. The tourist season in Goa lasts from November to March when the weather is moderately pleasurable.

If you plan in any other months, you will find the sun too hot or too much humidity in the area which makes traveling in Goa miserable for the visitors.

Summer is absolutely the worst time to visit Goa but the monsoon period is great for exploring the natural side of Goa. At this time, the Arabian Sea becomes dangerous and the beaches become inaccessible to visitors.

However, if you want to enjoy the waterfalls, lagoons, national parks, etc. in Goa, then the monsoon is a good time to visit. Do remember that beach shacks, huts, and several water activities are not operational at this time.

How to Travel in Goa

Once you have reached Goa, the next thing that you have to figure out is how to travel in Goa. This is extremely important because Goa is huge and going from one point to another often takes 45-60 minutes.

Thankfully, Goa has plenty of both private and public transportation options. So, you can consider your budget and preference while choosing the best mode of transport in Goa.

Public transportation includes buses that link all the major villages and towns of Goa. And hired transport options include auto-rickshaws, prepaid taxis, taxi bikes, car rentals, scooty, and more.

Here are a few ways that you can travel to Goa to explore this beautiful city.

Travel To/From Dabolim Airport

A lot of people are not aware of this but a local bus runs Dabolim International Airport to Vasco Da Gama. I have taken this bus which takes around 20 minutes to reach Vasco Da Gama Bus Stand and costs approximately 20 INR.

From Vasco Da Gama, you can get buses to Madgaon (for South Goa) or Panjim (for North Goa).

Where is the Bus Stop at Dabolim International Airport?

The bus stop at the airport is on the main highway to the right side of the airport exit doors. Once you get out of the airport, turn right and walk downwards towards the highway.

As soon as the public road begins, turn left and you will find a few local buses parked here that will take you to Vasco Da Gama.

How to Reach Dabolim International Airport?

If you want to reach the Dabolim Airport then you can take a shuttle from Panjim to Vasco Da Gama or the airport. From Vasco Da Gama, you have a couple of local buses going to the Airport every 10-15 minutes. And the whole thing would cost you barely 50 – 80 INR.

Budget Options

Bus Cost: Approximately INR 10 for 2-3 km Bicycle Rental Cost: INR 150 – 300 per day Ferries Cost: Free

Bus Service in Goa

Buses are the cheapest way to travel in Goa and connect all the villages and towns in this state. You will find amazing bus service in Goa to connect North and south parts of the state

You would not get a direct bus from South Goa to North Goa, it is still possible to explore the entire city using buses.

One thing to remember is that Madgaon and Panjim are two major bus stations in Goa. You will get buses to most of the places from here. Here is a little detailed route by bus if you want to reach these places:

• Madgaon Railway Station – From Madgaon Railway Station, you get a local bus to the Madgaon Bus Stand. It usually takes 15-20 minutes to reach the bus stand and costs around 20 INR.
• From the Madgaon Bus Stand, you get buses to South Goa like Colva, Benaulim, etc. You also get a bus/shuttle to Panjim from here.
• You will also get shuttles from Panjim to Madgaon which will take barely 45 minutes to reach and will cost you about 80 INR.
• Baga Beach – Once you reach Panjim, you can take a bus to reach North Goa like Baga, Candolim, etc. One thing to remember is that these buses usually take time but will cost you just 20-50 INR.
• Panjim – You will get a bus to Panjim from most of the places since it is a major point in Goa. Although, in some cases, you might need to change the bus at one point.
• Arambol – If you want to reach Arambol, then you will first need to take a bus to Morjim from Panjim. From the Morjim bus stand, you will need to take another bus to Arambol. In total, it would take you around 2 hours to reach Arambol from Panjim in a bus.

Shuttle Buses are quick and don’t stop at all the bus stops. So, if you are heading to the airport or the railway station then shuttle buses are the best way to travel.

Bicycle Rental

If you are traveling in Goa in the high season (December to February), then you can easily find bicycles to rent here.

You can rent bicycles daily or weekly basis and will find plenty of bicycle rental shops all over Goa.

If you are planning to stay for a month or more, then you can also ask for discounted rates on the bicycle.

Two-Wheeler Taxis in Goa

Another great option for local traveling in Goa that I became aware of during this year’s trip was the two-wheeler taxis also known as motorcycle taxis or pilots. In these taxis, you sit as a pillion rider behind a motorbike rider and reach any place for a fixed amount.

This is affordable and a great option for solo travelers who are planning a budget trip to Goa.

When you are traveling to other islands from the mainland such as Divar Island, Chorao Island, etc., you will need to take a ferry.

Thankfully, government-run ferries operate on such routes and don’t charge anything from the tourists or the locals.

Mid-Range Options

Taxi Cost: INR 8 – 10 per km or more Auto Rickshaw Cost: INR 7 per km or more Car or Scooty Rental Cost: INR 800 – 3000 per day for a car, INR 200 – 500 per day for scooty

Cabs and Taxis

If you want comfort and convenience and money is not an issue, then you can rent a cab in Goa.

However, this is definitely an expensive way to explore Goa. Generally, drivers charge an outrageous amount for a trip that might not be suitable for budget travelers.

The government has fixed prices for auto-rickshaws and cabs but a lot of drivers don’t follow this pricing. You can either pre-book them or flag them down on the road.

Prepaid Pricing – One thing to keep in mind is that the government has set prices for the different routes in Goa for the tourists. You can ask the driver to show you this official pricing before you agree to the price mentioned by them.

Dabolim Airport to Panjim – This will easily cost you about 1000 – 1500 INR so rent a cab in Goa sparingly.

Goa Miles – To rent a cab in Goa that is affordable, you can download the Goa Miles app. Generally, you find cabs and taxi bikes that will cost almost half of what they would normally charge you.

Rented Self-Drive Cars/Bikes

One of the best things to do in Goa for an easy and convenient trip is to rent a car/two-wheeler. You have a lot of rental shops throughout Goa which will give you a car/two-wheeler on rent.

A self-driven car will generally cost you around 1500 INR for a 7-seater in the off-season and weekdays. However, if you visit this city for a long weekend or the peak season then expect to pay around 2500 – 3000 INR for a 7-seater car.

As for the scooty, you can get it for 200-400 INR for a day throughout the year. One thing to remember is that make sure you ask for all the essential papers and helmets when renting the car/scooty.

A lot of times, they might rent you a car that doesn’t have required papers for driving around the entire Goa or you might not have a helmet for all the riders on the scooty.

Luxury Option (Private Driver)

If money is not a constraint for you, then you can rent a car with a private driver for your Goa trip. The cost of the private chauffeur will depend on where you made the booking.

However, the cost of renting a cab with a driver for 8 hours or a full day can range between 3,000 – 5,000 INR inclusive of driver fee, car, and fuel.

Since this is a full-day service, you should use it when you are planning a full day of sightseeing. If you are going to be traveling for just a couple of hours, you are better off choosing a taxi service.

For reliable and safe service, make sure you book a cab with a private chauffeur at the airport or through your hotel.

How Many Days to Stay in Goa

If you stay close to Goa, then a 3 to 4-day relaxing vacation by the beach would be perfect for you. But if you are traveling from cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur, etc., then you would easily need 5-6 days to soak in the beauty of this state.

Honestly, Goa deserves a longer vacation as there are numerous places to explore here including churches, waterfalls, beaches, and forts. I would suggest a week to a 10-day long trip to Goa.

In the past couple of years, Goa has become a popular hub for digital nomads and slow traveling due to its good connectivity and fair network.

There are several beachside cafes and accommodations where the visitors stay to work and enjoy the beachside views. If you are looking for a work-from-home location in this pandemic, then Goa is a good choice to consider.

What to Do in Goa

Goa is beautiful with a lot of things for guests to do around here. So, whether you are a nature lover or a beach lover, you will easily find something to engage in.

Here are a few things that you could do on your Goa trip for enjoying a wholesome experience here.

Beach Hopping in Goa

Goa is known as the beach capital of India and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. A few of the beaches are either hidden behind a cliff or they are protecting a lagoon which makes them even more beautiful to explore. So, if you are in Goa, you have to do beach hopping.

A few beaches in Goa that you cannot miss out on are Vagator beach in North Goa, Miramar beach in Panjim, Palolem beach in South Goa, Colva beach in South Goa, and so on.

Explore Old Goa

Apart from the beaches, there are a lot of offbeat places to explore in Goa too including Old Goa. In Old Goa, you will find a lot of beautiful churches and heritage sites to check out.

One such place that you must visit is the Basilica of Bom Jesus and St. Cathderal, both of these are UNESCO Heritage sites and have beautiful architecture to admire.

Check out the Waterfalls

There are a lot of amazing waterfalls to check out in Goa, both big and small. So, make sure that you set aside time for those as well. If you don’t have the time, then just make sure that you at least cover the Dudhsagar waterfall for which you will need the help of a local.

There is a limited number of cars allowed near this waterfall so, make sure you start early in the day to visit this waterfall.

Experience Nightlife in Goa

Of course, when we are talking about Goa, we have to talk about its amazing nightlife. If you love parties and crowds, then you have a lot to cover in Goa. There are so many bars, clubs, night-long parties to attend here, and usually, you will find a lot of such events happening in Central Goa.

So, you can go and enjoy the casino experience at Deltin Royal or groove to the Bollywood music in Love Passion Karma in Nerul, there are very low chances of you running out of party places to explore around here.

Do Yoga in Goa

If you are looking for a relaxing trip to Goa, then you can even join a yoga retreat here for daily yoga sessions. These yoga sessions can be quite uplifting and will help you relax properly. Trust me, it is quite refreshing to start an active day on the beach with a yoga session.

Try Watersports

Apart from the above-mentioned activities, Goa is quite famous for water sports as well. From dolphin watching to scuba diving, you have a wide range of water activities to do around here. You can even join a scuba diving course in Goa and learn how to dive on the Grande Island nearby.

So, if you have always wanted to try water activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, banana boat ride, snorkeling, diving, etc., then Goa is a good place to try it out.

Festivals in Goa

There are several unique festivals in Goa that are either a remembrance of the 450 years of Portuguese rule or celebrate the rich heritage of the locals.

You can plan a trip to Goa during this time to enjoy the food, colorful costumes, and all the fun events that are carried out during such festivals.

Music Festival – There are many music festivals held in Goa throughout the year, out of which Sunburn and Supersonic Music Festival are the most popular ones to attend.

New Year’s Eve and Christmas – During Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the beaches and cafes in Goa are brimming with colors and music. This is a great way to celebrate the New Year or Christmas spirits of the year.

Narkasur – After Diwali, locals of Goa celebrate Narka Chaturdashi which is the manifestation of good triumphing over evil. In this festival, giant demon effigies dance through the streets of Goa before they are burned to show the triumph of good.

Viva Carnival – This is a Catholic festival that begins from Fat Saturday and lasts till Fat Tuesday. Similar to Mardi Gras or Rio Carnival, this festival includes a grand celebration involving parades, floats, masked dances, and more.

Goa’s Party Scene

A lot of visitors come to Goa expecting the famous trance parties but are disappointed when they have the mainstream clubs to entertain themselves.

For pure hippie vibes and to dance to techno music, you can find several clubs in Goa, especially Anjuna and Vagator.

But if you are looking for parties where thousands of people dance, then you would need to attend a music festival in Goa or plan a trip during Christmas or New Year’s Eve.

What and Where to Eat in Goa

Goa is famous for seafood so if you are a non-vegetarian, then you can try the seafood dishes over here. A popular Goan dish to try would be Vindaloo that tends to be spicy but ultimately delicious.

Apart from that, you also need to try the Fish Curry meal here that usually includes fried fish, dal, roti, and a few other local items. You can find this meal in most local dhabas and eating stalls for 80 – 100 INR and it is quite filling as well.

Another great dish to try in Goa is the famous Bun from Café Bhosle in Panjim. This is a small, fluffy, and sweet bun that is fried and is served with chickpeas. It tastes quite yummy and will cost you around 50 INR for a plate.

You will find a lot of cafés here as well that serve delicious baked goods. One of my favorites is Café Al Fresco in Goa that is a Portuguese house converted into an art gallery and a bakery.

Here, you get pizza, croissants, cheesecake, and other delicacies to enjoy with a calm and relaxing ambiance. There are several rooms here that have been turned into display rooms for different kinds of artifacts and creations. So, if you have some time at hand, do visit this place in Panjim.

Another place that I would highly recommend you to visit is the Joseph’s Bar in Panjim where you can get the local alcohol Feni and some local snacks such as well.

They have seafood snacks too which are delicious and the entire vibe of this bar is quite amazing. You can meet lots of locals around here and hang out with them for an amazing time.

There are several normal restaurants and dhabas in Goa where you can enjoy a meal for 100 – 300 INR per person.

If you don’t mind spending, then you will find loads of good and high-end restaurants along with fast-food chains here that serve good food and will cost you 300 – 500 INR for a decent meal.

Stick to small food shacks and do read the menu before you start ordering. Also, make sure that you do try the Fish Curry meal here for 100 – 150 INR. The meal is filling and is the best way to taste the Goan cuisine.

Souvenir Shopping

There are several iconic flea markets in Goa such as the Anjuna Flea Market, Arpora Saturday Night Bazaar, etc. where they sell interesting items to the tourists.

From anklets to beaded necklaces, you can get it all here for a reasonable price. But you need to be adept at bargaining.

Although most of the jewelry, clothes, and footwear that are sold here can be bought from Sarojini Market in Delhi, there are a few unique things to buy here.

You can get the famous local alcohol – Feni, a bottle of Kokum juice, Goan spices, special Cashews, Azulejos – hand-painted tiles of Goa, and local sweets such as Bebinca Cake as souvenirs from Goa.

Accommodation Options in Goa

Goa is not a tiny state and easily requires 7-10 days to properly explore the sights that it has to offer. This is why you must choose the right place to stay in Goa as it has a big impact on your experience here.

If you love to party and want to enjoy all the experiences and activities that Goa has to offer to the tourists, then choose accommodation in Baga or Calangute.

For those who love offbeat locations and a peaceful environment, places in extreme North and South Goa are good choices.

And if you wish to explore Old Goa and learn more about the history of this state, then Panjim would be the ideal place to stay in Goa.

ATMs in Goa

If you traveling to Goa on a shoestring budget, then you will need to carry cash to pay the local street vendors, bus conductors, etc. So, carry enough cash that you can pay the street vendors.

There are a few places that accept PayTM, Google Pay, etc. also these days but don’t be completely reliable on those platforms.

Since Goa is a popular tourist destination, there are a lot of ATMs scattered throughout this tiny state. However, during the long weekends, a lot of these ATMs tend to be empty and there are huge queues outside the ATMs to withdraw cash.

To avoid such a situation, make sure that you pay using your card wherever possible such as clubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, etc., and keep the cash for paying for the rentals, activities, and other things.

This way, you won’t end up without cash where you need it the most and won’t have to waste time on ATM queues during your Goa trip.

Network Availability in Goa

In terms of Network availability, most of the networks work in Goa. But Vodafone, Jio, and Airtel networks work the best in Goa.

However, this network can be patchy at many locations as well so, you might not have any Internet or Calling signal on your mobile phone for a while.

Most of the hotels and cafes offer decent Wi-Fi to get your work done even if you cannot stream Netflix with it.

Safety in Goa

Goa is a relatively safe state to visit in India but there are a few things to keep in mind when you are traveling here.

Swimming in Goa

Firstly, be careful when you are swimming in Goa. A lot of beaches have vicious sea currents that can easily drown tourists. Generally, this happens because the tourist is drunk or high.

So, stick to beaches that have lifeguards or are safe to swim. Avoid swimming during the monsoon season as it can be extremely dangerous.

Women Safety

One bad thing about Goa is that eve-teasing and catcalling are quite common here. But that’s not even the worst part.

There have been complaints from women that their obscene photos are clicked without their permission or men try to begin a conversation with them when they are not interested.

This is why it is advised for solo female travelers or female friends to avoid going to remote places alone or accepting food/drinks from strangers in Goa.

Sunstroke and Mosquito Bites

Apart from that, you are likely to suffer from sunstroke or suffer from mosquito bites when you are traveling in Goa.

Make sure you carry a hat and good sunscreen with high SPF value to keep your skin protected.

For protection against the mosquitoes, use a mosquito repellent cream or spray and try to keep a covering with you to cover your exposed skin during the evening to stay safe from mosquito bites.

Clothing in Goa

Of course, when you are planning a trip to Goa, you might wonder what you should wear here. Thankfully, Goa is a little relaxed in terms of clothing and one can easily wear dresses, skirts, shorts, etc. here.

One of the best things about Goa is that you can wear almost anything when you are traveling here. Bikinis and swimsuits are common on the beaches and you can wear them freely on Colva, Vagator, Arambol, Palolem, etc. beaches.

Furthermore, if your hotel or resort is located on a beach, then you can relax and enjoy yourself in a bikini as the beach area is usually kept private for the guests to enjoy.

The only place where it is not normal to wear a bikini or swimsuit is in restaurants or the streets of Goa, so dress a little carefully over there. You can wear dresses, skirts, etc. while exploring around Goa with no worries.

Apart from that, there are many churches and traditional places in Goa where you would need to cover your knees and shoulders to enter.

If you are traveling in a bus, then do carry a stole or scarf to avoid standing out and getting ogled at. A stole will not only protect you from unwarranted stares but will also keep you safe from the bright sun and keep your body cool in the humid climate.

Budget for Goa

One of the best things about Goa is that it can easily be traveled on a shoestring budget. But if you are in a mood to splurge, then it can easily turn into a luxurious trip as well.

On my 4 trips to Goa now, I have been able to manage my month-long trips in 15,000 – 20,000 INR inclusive of my travel from Delhi to Goa, stay, food, activities, and transportation in Goa.

Generally, a 5-day trip to Goa can cost you around 4,000 – 6,000 INR if you are on a budget trip. This cost can increase if you choose luxury resorts and dine and party at the best places in Goa.

Goa has become too crowded after it has evolved as a tourist destination but there are still a lot of unexplored places around here.

Most people stay in North Goa for party scenes but if you want to experience Goa in the Goan style, then explore Old Goa and South Goa. It is quite peaceful around there and you have a lot of lagoons and hiking trails to explore in South Goa too.

Honestly, Goa is one of those places that have something for all kinds of travelers. So, whether you are looking for a fun place to party or a quiet beach to reflect on your life, Goa has it all.

I hope this Goa travel guide helps you plan your trip to Goa too so that you can have your once-in-a-lifetime trip here.

Related posts

Rann Utsav Tent City Complete Guide 2024: Types of Tents, Cost, and More

15 Best Places to Visit in Sikkim For First-Time Visitors

Trek Requirements: How to Pack for a Trek

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us. We provide Watersports & Adventure trips. Convenient & affordable to your advantage.

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us.

The best beaches in Goa

Dec 19, 2019 • 6 min read

The gods smiled on Goa . They blessed this sun-kissed strip of the Indian coast with warm winter weather, whispering palms, fine food and friendly people, then garnished the dish with a string of sandy beaches, creating an almost unbroken strip of gold from Arambol to Polem. But with so many beaches to choose from, where to begin?

Whether you’re after unspoiled golden shores, morning yoga classes under the palms or the last embers of the full-moon-flavoured hippy vibe that made the region so (in)famous, there’s a stretch of sand suited to you. Here’s our guide to Goa’s best beaches.

Best for peace and quiet: Querim

Escaping the crowds can be tricky in Goa – the beaches are obviously no secret – but it can be done; the trick is to go to the end of the line. So far north it’s almost in Maharashtra, Querim , aka Keri Beach, lies beyond the radar of the legions who congregate in Baga, Calangute and Candolim. 

It’s not quite Swiss Family Robinson territory, but this tidy, curving bay comes close if your dream is just the sound of shifting sand. A few beach bungalows set up here in season, but amenities are limited; for the middle ground, try the more developed, but still calm stretches of sand at Mandrem and Agonda.

Best for party animals: Anjuna or Vagator

At the other end of the spectrum, the party scene raves on – though with slightly less wild abandon as in the 70s and 80s – at Anjuna and Vagator. You still get great music and barefoot dancing on the sand, but most parties now take place in established venues such as the Hilltop nightclub in Vagator. To get around noise regulations, touring big name DJs often play their sets on Sundays from afternoon to late evening, rather than raving through the night.

Old school full moon parties still take place, of course, but these days things are fairly secretive, with locations shared by social media on the day, to avoid visits from party-pooping officials. There is of course a reason for these party-pooping visits: drug-related deaths occur all too frequently in Goa. If you’re planning to join the party, proceed with extreme caution.

 Best for water sports: Mandrem or Morjim

With the beach resort scene in full swing, you can get wet in all sorts of wild and wonderful ways along the Goa coastline. January to March is prime time for wind-surfing, with the best breezes in Dona Paula Bay near Panjim. For kitesurfing, learn the ropes at Kite Guru , based at the Riverside resort in Mandrem, or Kitesurfing Goa at Morjim.

Goa also has a healthy ‘proper’ surfing scene, with some impressive swells from October to April, coinciding with the peak tourist season. Banana Surf School at Morjim is a good place for beginners, with surfing lessons that will help you get up on your feet on your very first outing. Agonda’s Aloha Surf India is another prime spot for first-timers. 

Scuba diving off Goa isn’t quite the tropical wonderland you might have experienced in Southeast Asia, but there are fish aplenty, plus wrecks, reefs and seaweed forests around Ilha Grande, Ilha Netrani other offshore islands. Candolim’s Dive Goa and Baga’s Barracuda Diving are trusted operators.

Best for families: Agonda

Goa is the perfect choice for a family beach holiday in India . The winter weather is pitch perfect, the beach scene is developed, locals love kids and you can even find the familiar tastes of home for tiny travellers who haven’t yet developed an appreciation for Indian cooking. 

Many parents rate Agonda for its boogie-board friendly surf, and beachside restaurants that provide a vantage point for watching the children play in the sand. Aswem , Palolem and Patnem also have a good family vibe, with just the right balance of amenities and personal space.

Wherever you go in Goa, be aware that undertows are common, so make sure children stick to the shallows and share advice about swimming parallel to the shore if you get caught in a current. The good news is that most Goa beaches now have government-appointed lifeguards, which should help put parents’ minds at ease.

Best for culture vultures: Candolim 

You don’t just go to Goa for the beach. Thanks to centuries of cross-cultural influences, there’s plenty to see once you step back from the sand. The cultural centre of Goa is its appealing capital, Panaji , with a Portuguese-by-way-of-the-tropics vibe, and a cluster of good museums, art galleries, and historic churches. The serious history unfurls once you hit Old Goa , the original Portuguese settlement, where a string of stone-walled churches and cathedrals stand handsomely amongst the palm trees beside the Mandovi River.

The best bases for exploring the state capital and its historic counterpart are the beaches immediately to the north and south, with Candolim, Calangute and Baga having the best bus connections for popping in and out. All three are packed with hotels and resorts, and the competition means you can often pick up a room for a bargain price.

Best for foodies: Baga

There’s more to Goan food than vindaloo, though a well-prepared version of this Portuguese-Indian fusion dish flavoured with palm vinegar and dried red chilli is still a delight on the palate. With the influx of globetrotters taking up permanent residence on this strip of coastline, Goa now serves up some spectacular world food amongst the eateries serving delectable Indian cuisine.

 Dining choices cross the spectrum, from old-school, traveller-centric cafes such as Vagator’s ever popular vegan Bean Me Up to Utorda’s club-chic, party oriented Zeebop by the Sea .  South Goa is where expats head for the taste of home, at restaurants such as Patnem’s garden-style Jaali Cafe , serving tasty tapas plates from the Middle East and Mediterranean, and Palolem’s highly regarded Ourem 88 , offering inspired takes on European classics such as baked brie and the English Sunday roast.

 Some of the tastiest meals are served in the capital, so choose a resort in Candolim, Baga or Calangute to be close to elegant dining options such as Panaji’s boutique Black Sheep Bistro , where tapas dishes ooze farm-to-table flavours, and nostalgically old-school Goan restaurants such as Hotel Venite and Viva Panjim .

Best for yoga: Assagao and Arambol

Yoga classes on the sand are the very vision of life in Goa, and there are some excellent centres here offering yoga tuition, from casual drop-in classes to serious training from veteran teachers. Assagao has become Goa’s favourite spot to do the downward dog, with popular retreats such as Purple Valley Yoga Retreat and Swan Yoga Retreat offering the full sand and serenity package.

For low-stress drop-in classes, you’ll be spoiled for choice in hippy havens such as Anjuna, Aswem and Mandrem; in South Goa, get your stretch on in Palolem and Patnem. Dedicated practitioners gather in Arambol , where the highly-regarded Himalayan Iyengar Yoga Centre offers five-day training programmes from November to March.

This article was first published in July 2010 and last updated in December 2019.

This article was first published Jul 13, 2010 and updated Dec 19, 2019.

Explore related stories

Nov 21, 2023 • 6 min read

Planning a subcontinental winter holiday? Read on as two writers make the case for their preferred South Indian state.

Sep 26, 2023 • 6 min read

Apr 21, 2022 • 7 min read

Jan 31, 2022 • 6 min read

Oct 29, 2019 • 7 min read

Oct 16, 2019 • 7 min read

Sep 27, 2019 • 5 min read

Aug 5, 2019 • 5 min read

Jul 15, 2019 • 7 min read

Aug 17, 2015 • 6 min read

• 12 Reasons Why Everyone Needs...

12 Reasons Why Everyone Needs to Visit Goa This Summer

India Writer

It’s no secret that Goa is a favourite beach destination in India. It has a laid-back lifestyle, hippie vibe, glorious scenic beaches, natural tranquillity, beach sports, and awesome parties. It’s a great destination year-round, but visiting Goa during summer is quite a special experience. Here are some reasons to visit Goa this summer.

Pay cheaper prices.

The hotels and resorts in Goa slash their prices during summer, but the facilities are just as good as at other times of year. What’s more, flights to Goa are cheaper. So, if you want a luxurious holiday on a shoestring budget, head to Goa this summer.

Enjoy a romantic evening in solitude

Just you, your partner and the sun, sea and sand: romantic bliss! In summer, it’s easier to snag a table at a beach shack to enjoy a romantic evening by candle light, away from prying eyes! Alternatively, enjoy a quiet, serene sunset cruise along the Mandovi River.

Champions Yacht Club, Champions Island, Divar, Tiswadi Taluka, Panjim, Goa, +91 077740 62627

Paradise Cruises, Booth No. 1, Tourism Jetty, below the Mandovi Bridges Patto, Panjim, Goa, +91 0832 243 7239

Soak in the sun on quiet beaches

Make a beeline for one of the beautiful beaches of this tropical paradise, sans crowds! Relax and soak up the Vitamin D on a sun-kissed stretch of sand, or take a contemplative barefoot stroll, perfect therapy for your body, mind and soul. Just don’t forget to pack your sunglasses and sunblock.

Get high on adrenaline

Water sports definitely shouldn’t be missed on a trip to Goa: parasailing, water skiing, jet skiing, wind surfing, banana boat ride, scuba diving, dolphin spotting, snorkeling… Get ready for an adrenaline rush!

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Shop for bargains

With nearly non-existent crowds, the vendors slash the rates of the items in order to make a sale. Shopaholics can fill their bags with Goan specialties and souvenirs without leaving much of a dent in their pockets. Plus, alcohol is also cheap during this season. More reasons to party until the sun comes up.

Try the delicious Goan cuisine

A trip to Goa is incomplete without trying the delicious local cuisine: pork vindaloo, Goan fish curry, sorpotel, fish recheado, prawn balchao, bebinca, and of course, the local liquor, Goan feni… hungry yet?

Summertime festivals

There are festivities and celebrations in Goa year-round, but the months of summer (March-May) throb with high spirits and liveliness. The best festivals at this time of year are Shigmo (March), a street festival that portrays Goan life through folk performances, music, dance and parades; Easter (March or April); Grape Escapade (April), a wine festival; the Goan Food and Music Festival (April), which celebrates Goan delicacies and music; the Konkan Fruit Fest (April); India Bike Week (April); and the Goa Heritage Festival (May).

http://instagram.com/p/BTj-Fu_AXRw/

Discover hidden treasures–in peace

Because of the relative scarcity of tourists in Goa during the summer, you’ll get the chance to explore some of the state’s off-the-beaten-path treasures in peace. Enjoy the aroma of fresh spices at a spice plantation; hang out with elephants at the Jungle Book; enjoy splendid views and Portuguese history from Sinquerim Fort; watch Greek performances at Greek restaurant Thalassa; explore architectural wonders at Rivona Caves, Arvalem Caves or Lamgau Caves; try backwater kayaking on the Zueri and Nerul Rivers; spot wildlife in nature sanctuaries…

Dudhsagar Plantation, Karmane Village, Mollem National Park, Goa, +91 097653 64456

Jungle Book, Waterfalls Rd, Kulem, Goa, +91 098221 21431

Sinquerim Fort, Candolim, Goa

Thalassa, Small Vagator, Ozran, Vagator, Goa, +91 098500 33537

Arvalem Caves, Rudreshwar Colony, Sanquelim, Goa, +91 0832 249 4200

Natural Caves , Tilamol – Rivona – Colomb – Curdi (Zambaulim), Rivona, Goa

Lamgao Buddhist Caves, Lamgao Bicholim Goa, Lamgao, Bicholim, Goa

http://instagram.com/p/BBFIt4cCcfk/

Indulge in some pampering

Countless yoga retreats and one-off lessons are held on the soft sands of Goa. Patnem Beach in South Goa and Arambol Beach and Mandrem Beaches in North Goa are ideal places to head if you’re looking to join a class. There are also numerous wellness centres in Goa. These offer all kinds of rest and relaxation, and often serve organic meals to keep you hale and hearty. A few excellent options include SWAN Yoga Retreat, Banyan Tree Yoga and Vedic Valley. A splendid retreat in Goa awaits you this summer!

SWAN Yoga Retreat, 101/4 Bairo Alto, Assagao Bardez, Assagao, Goa, +91 080073 60677

Banyan Tree Yoga, Near Ashvem Football Ground, Mandrem, North Goa, Goa . +91 099232 3501

Vedic Valley, 770, New Wada, Morjim, Goa . +91 088885 49807

Trek to refreshing waterfalls and biodiversity hotspots

Trek along the picturesque pathways of the Mahavir Forest Reserve and witness the splendour of the Dudhsagar Falls. Water cascades in milky froth (hence their name–dudh means milk). They’re truly a sight like no other!

Dudhsagar Falls, Sonaulim, Goa

Owing to its close proximity to the Western Ghats mountain chain, Goa is home to rich and diverse fauna and flora. The Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary, Mollen National Park, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary are some must-visit spots.

Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, NH 4A, Caranzol, Goa

Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Valpoi, Goa, +91 0832 222 5926

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Canacona Taluka, Khotigao, Goa, +91 0832 296 5601

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Usgao-Ganjem VP, Goa, +91 0832 243 8750

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Near Ribandar Ferry, Chorao, Goa, +91 0832 222 9701

Instagram-ready photos

With minimal crowds, picturesque spots and beautiful sunrises and sunsets, Goa is summer is a paradise for shutterbugs. Though the sun is strong in the middle of the day, the morning and evening glow are a photographer’s delight.

Easy exploration on two wheels

Thanks to the quieter streets of summer, touring the whole state by bike is easy. Stop wherever you want to admire beach towns, Portuguese-era architecture and scenic beaches. Bikes are cheap to rent, at around INR 175- INR 250 (US$ 2- US$4) per day, and are a perfect way to explore India’s smallest state.

These 7 Temples in India are Famous for Their Erotic Sculptures

What is the Festival of Holi, And Why is It Celebrated?

The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in India

The 7 Best Day Trips to Take From Chennai, India

The Top 24 Things To Do And See In Kolkata

The 9 Best Ancient Towns and Cities You Should Visit in India

Spa Hotels to Book for a Detox in India

The Top 19 Unusual Things to Do in Mumbai

7 Top Things To Do And See In Jaipur

The 10 Best Day Trips From Goa

The 9 Best Things To Do in Connaught Place, New Delhi

Most Beautiful Cities You Should Visit in India

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 1390310
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• Golden Triangle (Delhi Agra Jaipur)
• South India
• North India
• Culture & Heritage
• Chardham Yatra
• Luxury Train
• First Timer
• Luxury Tours
• Jammu & Kashmir

International

[email protected]

• Plan My Trip
• Reasons to Visit Goa

Top Reasons why you should Visit Goa

When one thinks about planning their trip then Goa is one of the most preferred places in India, rather all over the world to travel and enjoy stay there. There are a lot of reasons for someone to visit Goa which includes it wonderful beaches, some alluring forts, picturesque sceneries and its charming festivals and delicious food.

We often wonder what the places are to visit in Goa, why goa has a huge boom in tourism and what activities that can be done in goa. A lot of time we often wonder what can be eaten and some good place to enjoy the festivals along with the best time to visit Goa . Goa is a very nice place that can be visited anytime during the year and there are numerous places along with humongous variety in food and cultural places where one can visit.

There are a lot of activities that make goa one of the best places to visit such as the water sports that one can enjoy on the beaches along with a romantic or family trip. There are numerous beaches and a lot of them are famous for certain activities that one can do there. There are some famous resorts and comfortable accommodations which allows the tourist to help them explore goa, including its flora and fauna, plantations and parties.

Some of the Top Reasons to Visit Goa are:-

1. water sports.

Due to the nice weather that stays pleasant and sporty for almost whole year makes these beach activities enjoyable.

There are various activities like kitesurfing, wave surfing, fishing tours and even a lot of film shootings often takes place on several beaches here. There are some calm, soothing and pleasant activities like Kayaking and backwater boat riding that can be enjoyed by a whole group of people and often taken by people on their honeymoons and family trips.

2. Portuguese Design

The architect of Goa is very different from other places in India due to the influence of the Portuguese in this area as compared to French and British influence in rest of the sub-continent. There are places which still have an essence of Portuguese culture like that of St. Cathedral, which is the seat of Archbishop of Goa, Church of St. Francis and many more such places. The houses in capital region are built with Portuguese style architecture that can be visited to enjoy a small change in culture.

3. Parties in Goa

One of the most enjoyed part of a trip to Goa is the never-ending party environment that can be enjoyed. The nightlife in Goa has its own place in the life of people and the rules to party in Goa are very relaxed as one can easily party till the dawn. In fact, there are various these parties like beach parties, cruise ship parties and even silent parties which makes sure the tourists that come here enjoy their time the most whether it is daytime or nighttime.

4. Goa Festivals and Carnivals

These festivals are Asia’s largest festival and have a huge number in audience following it. Apart from these festivals there is the Goa Carnival which happens in the month of February and all the people of goa take the streets.

5. Exploring Wildlife

There are hundreds of exotic species of birds, flowers and other animals that one can have an adventure looking for them and finding them. The bird sanctuary in charro where 400 plus species of birds are present along with the likes of finding rare animals like the pangolins, chitals, elephants or guars in these wildlife reserves.

There are several more species of trees and other wild animals that can be found in the forests of the Goa. There are various wildlife safaris or trekking option available that can be adventurous and an escape from the daily life hustles.

6. Enjoying the food

The food in Goa has a huge variety when it comes to providing dishes that includes fishes, prawns, lobsters and other spicy food. The sea food in Goa has been one of the best as there are is a huge variety in the food that is available here.

For the tourists visiting here it, they should try the food and the drinks from different location as each location in Goa has its own taste. The drinks in Goa is very cheap as compared to other states and thus drinking wine and some exotic drinks in beach and parties can be a lifetime experience.

7. Trekking

There are several trekking spots routes can take to explore the wildlife and flora in the forests. There are some very nice scenic beauties that can’t be missed out for anything in the world. There are some majestic waterfalls that are worth the efforts to trek their way towards like the Dudhsagar fall which is 310 meters tall and with the forest that surrounds it make the slope of the fall alluring to look at.

8. Cruise Ship Ride

There are a lot of activities regarding the coastal line of goa that can be done, but one of the most famous activities here is the riding a cruise ship. The cruise ships are large boats where one can easily get a ride at an affordable price and enjoy the sea water.

There are many cruise ships which even offers the chance for a party inside the deck and various cultural shows can be enjoyed in these ships. The smaller version of these ships can be booked for a romantic date which one can enjoy the moment along the fine moonlight and the warm breeze of the sea that surrounds it.

Along the coastal line dolphins can be spotted which makes these water rides one of the best and worth all the money in the world.

9. Scuba Diving

Among the other activities this is one of the most loved and enjoyable hobby that can be done with the benefits of huge sea life in Goa.

Scuba diving becomes a fun activity when it is done with friends and loved one along with the opportunity to explore the extensive sea life that is present beneath the sea level.

There is a huge variety of fishes, corals and other sea animals that can be found, and with the help of right instructions and gear that is found in goa, the tourists can easily enjoy their time in the sea.

10. Island Trip

One of the advantages to travel to goa is that, tourists can take trips to the Island that are present in the sea lining of goa. There are numerous islands in the Arabian sea, and few of them are located within 10 km of range from the costal line of goa, hence a lot of these islands are often visited by people who are looking for an escape from all the noise to find some silence and serenity. The tourists can swim in the calm waters and explore the lands or sea without any interreference from anyone.

11. Air Adventure Activities

Paragliding is one of the most fun, adventurous and lovely activity that is done by a great deal of people and the trend doesn’t seems to stop. There are other activities like hot air balloon ride which is soothing as well adventurous ride as one can ascend to the height of several hundred feet in the air.

12. Bike Riding

Goa has a very nice weather that makes it an ideal condition for the tourist to rent a bike and explore the roads. In fact, two-wheeler taxis have been in goa for a huge amount of time. The cool breeze from the sea when it hits the face while riding the bike makes that bike ride one of the best activities that can be done in Goa. There are even quad bikes which can be rented, and they run very well on the beaches as well making the ride comfortable.

13. Goa Market

There is huge collections of goods that can be bought from the market that includes some local made handicraft work, seashell, fake jewelry and much more. These markets are packed with people during the daytime and offers some great deal on goods.

These are some of the reasons to visit Goa often or even every year because of the music festivals that often happen here along with the activities one can do on all the beaches. It is due to these reasons’ goa can be visited by a numerous people anytime at the year. This makes goa as the ultimate tourist destination for family, couples and even party animals that can enjoy the vacation in Goa for whole day either it’s nighttime or daytime.

More Goa Packages

• 2 N / 3 D - Trip to Goa
• 4 N / 5 D - Goa Tour Packages
• 5 N / 6 D - Goa Honeymoon
• 7 N / 8 D - Goa Tour from Mumbai
• 7 N / 8 D - Goa Tour from Delhi
• 11 N / 12 N - Goa Tour from Chennai
• 13 N / 14 D - Goa & Karnatka from Mumbai
• 14 N / 15 D - Goa and Rajasthan Trip
• 7 N / 8 D - Goa Kerala Mumbai
• 10 N / 11 D - Goa and Kerala
• 17 N / 18 D - Goa Beaches with North India
• Goa Travel Guide
• How To Reach Goa
• Best time to Visit
• Culture of Goa
• History of Goa
• Adventure Activities
• Interesting Facts about Goa
• Handicrafts in Goa
• Things to buy in Goa
• Festivals in Goa

Attractions

• Morjim Beach
• Arambol Beach
• Vagator Beach
• Anjuna Beach
• Colva Beach
• Candolim Beach
• Arossim Beach
• Mobor Beach
• Sinquerim Beach
• Majorda Beach
• Benaulim Beach
• Palolem Beach

To enhance the customer experience, we ensure you to resolve your queries at one step. Our dedicated travel professionals will give you an extended support for all your queries relates to all travel needs in India.

• +91 99 101 17858

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 50 Reasons to Visit Goa Every Year

With the best reasons to visit Goa every year, it is love at first sight! This pint sized state is more than just beaches, booze and trance parties. A kaleidoscopic blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, sweetened with sun, sea, sand, seafood and spirituality, there's nowhere in India quite like it. Located in the country’s southwest, not only is Goa India’s smallest state, but it is also one of the country’s richest and most literate. There is so much that is unique about Goa, with many visitors finding the laid back pace of life in marked contrast to the frenetic pace of the north. Goa’s biggest draw is undoubtedly its string of golden sand beaches shimmering in its own vibe with beach shacks a plenty allowing you to relax by the sea, covering you from the blazing sun. You can visit the beautiful Colva beach or the extremely happening Baga or head to Mandrem for a quieter experience or just sit by the water at Miramar as you watch crabs and shells scuttling back to be hidden again.Goa is no less than a paradise when it comes to water sports activities. Be it water skiing, banana boat rides, scuba diving and water scooter rides…all are enough to give you a feel of freedom. The flea markets of Goa are the best spot to shop till you drop as one can buy some of the most unique items. You can go to the Mapusa Market, Saturday Night Bazar and Anjuna Flea Market which are the best options for shopaholics to buy dazzling jewellery items, handmade crafts, funky accessories, boho dresses and herbs.The religious life of the Goans is commendable and visiting its ancient temples and churches are surely appealing, drawing the attention of almost every single traveler. One of the must visit churches being Bom Jesus Basilica which houses the preserved body of St.Francis Xavier for more than 450 years. Food is enjoyed fully in Goa, as it is throughout India. The scents, spices and flavours of Goa’s cuisine will surprise and tantalise even seasoned travellers: whether it's a classic fish curry rice, a piquant vindaloo, with its infusions of wine vinegar and garlic, or a spicy xacuti sauce, the Indo-Portuguese influence is a treat for the tastebuds.So, need a break from busy city life, then waste no time and plan an amazing escape to the Vegas of India. With the best reasons to visit Goa every year, be sure to have a truly mind blowing time here.

Here is a list of reasons to visit Goa every year: 

Quick navigation.

Backwater Kayaking

Scuba Diving

Prawn Cocktail at Curlies, Anjuna Beach

Enjoy Sunset Cruise at Bogmalo Beach

Dolphin Spotting

Eat at Thalassa

Island Trip with Snorkelling

Backwater Cruise

Go Paragliding and Fly Like a Bird

A Day With The Jumbos

Sport Fishing in Panjim

Go for Underwater Walk

Visit Butterfly Conservatory

Best of Alibag

Water sports in Goa

Stay in Beach Shacks

Volleyball & Football on the Beach

Wednesday Shopping in Anjuna Flea Market

Visit Goa Churches

Candle Light Dinner on the Beach

Make your trip, an affair of love and romance with a candlelight dinner with your better half at one of the  most exotic beaches in Goa . Even if you are visiting the beach with your friends and family, a dinner on this beach will get everyone close and offer some of the most adorable moments in your lives.

Make a Fortune in the Casinos

Dusdhsagar Trek

Best of Andaman and Nicobar

Have Fun with Feni Making Process

Get Yourself Tattooed

Attend Goa Carnival

Enjoy Firework on the Beach

Be it on a honeymoon, birthday celebration, bachelor party or any other eventful festivities like New Year, Christmas or the Goan New Year, a bit of firecracker show adds more sparks and showiness. Witness the beach turning into a bed of glitters and making your celebration, an event of your life!

Enjoy Silent Loudness in a Silent Party

Burn the Sun at Sunburn Festival

Eat Goan Sea Food

Kings Beer and the Beaches

Best of Pondicherry

Rent a Bike and Explore Goa

Sunbathing on the Beach

Go Surfing in Goa

Sunset at Chapora Fort

Go to Startup Project Goa

Hire a Two -wheelers Taxi

Nightlife at Tito’s

Get into the Sea with a Sea Cruise

Best of Gokarna

Kite Surfing in Goa

Christmas in Goa

Evening Beach Walks

Boat Ride to Butterfly Beach

Yoga on the Beach

Bird Watching

Watch Fire Show on the Beach

Stay in the Finest Beach Resorts in India

Best of Varkala

Rent a Heritage Villa

Quad Biking in Goa

Hire a Open Jeep

Goa Arts and Literary Festival

Spice Plantation Tours

Trending in Goa

Sightseeing in goa.

Water Sports in Goa

Goa Top Attractions

Dudhsagar Falls of Goa is a majestic waterfall where the white water gushing through the steep and vertical face of the mountain portrays a cascading effect. Standing as tall as 310 metres, it makes sure to stand in the list of tallest waterfalls in India. The cascading effect of this waterfall gives rise to the illusion of a milky white sea falling from such a great height. This is how the Falls acquired its name – Dudhsagar Falls. The four-tiered waterfall marks its presence along the Mandovi River in the Sanguem taluka (Goa). The main river of Goa – Mandovi, originating from the Deccan Plateau winds its way through the twists and turns of the Western Ghats. As soon as the river plummets through the hilly cover lying along the borders of Karnataka and Goa, it transforms into Dudhsagar Falls.The moment the water gushing out from the Falls flow towards its feet, it forms a green pool at its base. It is from here that the water of the Dudhsagar Falls starts flowing westwards to join and be a part of the mighty Arabian Sea. The entire landmark in the backdrop of the falls is covered with a vastly stretched forest cover. This is how the Dudhsagar Falls form a part of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark the wildlife researching skills within you as there this sanctuary shelters a plethora of wildlife. In the past few years, the popularity of the Dudhsagar Falls has increased ten-fold as one of the most preferred weekend getaways from each of the cities of Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune. If you’ve got a big group or a family, you surely must check-in the Dudhsagar Falls for a short family outing. 

Also called St. Catherine's Cathedral this 16th-century masterpiece took 80 long years to finish and is one of the largest churches in the world. The Cathedral attains to the west of the great square called Terreiro de Sabato and has its face turned to the east. A flight of steps approaches its beautiful courtyard.  It was consecrated in 1640 and was built to honour the triumph of the Portuguese over the Muslim rulers of the city.Owing to such a magnificent aura and the glory, Se Cathedral has been stated as a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is known as the largest church in Asia, and also has a giant bell and its elegant architecture makes it a majestic white beauty. Se Cathedral also endures the honour of being the seat of the Archdiocese of Goa. Se Cathedral is home to the historic “Golden Bell” which is famous around the world as it is the largest bell with a rich sound. When you will visit the church now you will be amused to witness the amazing construction techniques and designs used while building the church. The intricate work on wood in the interiors of the church add to its beauty as it the wonderful work of art. This place is a combination of peace and beauty, visiting this place will not only rejuvenate you but will also fill you up with positivity.Legend of Saint Catherine of Se CathedralCredits: NagarjunCatherine was a lady who was considered as a Christian Saint according to tradition, and was martyred in the early 4th century at the hands of the pagan Emperor Maxentius. It is believed that she was both a princess and a noted scholar, who became a Christian at around the age of 14 and also converted hundreds of people to Christianity, and was martyred around the age of 18. Catherine was known to be a spiritual pathfinder and raise her voice against the oppression of the Christians under the rule of Roman emperor Maxentius. She was so strong and logical with her arguments that the king himself was incapable of countering them and has a then he formed a committee of 50 philosophers to debate her ideas.However, even the assembly conceded defeat in front of her and confessed Christianity as their belief. Out of anger, the king burnt the philosophers alive and sentenced st.catherine to prison. Catherine did not give up, and she was succeeded in converting not only the jailers but also the king's wife. It is believed that she showed the path of Christianity to 200 people. Even when she was facing the worse condition of her life, she continued to stretch the word of Jesus. She was honoured with the title of"patroness of the wheel-wrights" because it is believed then when she was fastened to a spiked wheel as it was mentioned in her death sentence the wheel broke and she was left uninjured. And when she was finally beheaded, it is said that angle took her remains and laid them to rest atop Mount Sinai. When you visit the Se Cathedral, you can witness the Saint Catherine ornaments, a crown portraying her royal birth and has a book in her hands, which signifies her sound knowledge as she points a spiked wheel, which reveals her martyrdom.Se Cathedral HistoryThe Cathedral is devoted to St. Catherine of Alexandria, it is said that it was built to celebrate the victory of the Portuguese ruler Alfonso Albuquerque who destroyed the Muslim army and took ownership of the city of Goa. Consequently, it is also called St. Catherine's' Cathedral. In 1953, the Cathedral was presented with "The Golden Rose" by Venerable Pope Pius XII. It is a gold ornament, which the Popes of the Catholic Church have traditionally favoured and given as a symbol of devotion or affection.You can witness it as it is placed on the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. It was approved by Governor George Cabral to be spread in 1552 on the remains of an earlier structure. The formation of the church began in 1562. The church was completed in 1619 and was consecrated in 1640.  It is a perfect place to experience a blend of peace and tranquillity. You will be filled with positivity when you will visit this sacred place.The architecture of Se Cathedral  The architecture of Se Cathedral is awe-inspiring and elegant. The architectural style is a blend of Gothic elements and typical Portuguese style, or you can say that the architecture style of the Se Cathedral is Portuguese-Manueline. There were two different techniques that were opted to make the church. The exterior was made in Tuscan style and the interior has been built in and Corinthian style. With dimensions of 250 feet long and 181 feet wide, this church has a  delightfully decorated entrance that measures around 115 feet in height. The church is amazingly decorated, yet the style is intriguing and simple. The Cathedral has been built on an elevated base of laterite, which is covered with the thick lime plaster.You can also see the bell tower which is located on the southern side of the façade. The building of the church is rectangular on the plan but has a cruciform layout in the interior. The main altar is devoted to Catherine of Alexandria, and you can also see several old paintings on either side of it. You can also see the Chapel, which is known as the Cross of Miracles, it is believed that there was an image of Christ that was said to have appeared in 1619. 

Baga is a famous beach destination in North Goa that attracts thousands of tourists and watersports lovers to its heart. The beach shares its coastal line from the environs of Sinquerim, Candolim, and Baga, with the Baga shore being more lively and enticing. This bubbly beach is one of the best in Goa that stays awake the whole night. Called as "The Hometown of Nightlife," Baga beach is reputed for its cranky music celebrations by late-night, mouth-watering food, designer shops, and adventure sports.Tourism in Goa’s coasts got ignited by 1960 after the famous summer gathering of hippies from San Francisco. Baga beach then became popular among foreigners and slowly more exciting ventures like fishing, paddleboarding, discos, and tattoo shops started in the mainland. Named after “Baga Creek in Baga”, the tidal residuary channel that drains into the Arabian sea, Baga beach in Goa is also well organized with parking facilities and is maintained tidy by the local governing authorities, besides experiencing hordes of travelers clubbing around. Baga town is surrounded by the Baga river, and spotting the place where the river and the “sea meet, is a beautiful view to bait your eyes. Dolphins can also spotted deeper in the blue ocean and there are some spotting trips organized by local ship owners to spot the sea mammal.

More Goa Attractions

Goa travel guides.

Goa Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Goa

More things to do in goa, more on goa tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Goa Every Year

7 reasons why you should visit Goa every year:

1.) Goa has amazing natural beauty, lots of lush green forests, clean water beaches and few white sand beaches in South region. Some must visit beaches are

Anjuna beach - Rocky beach although not much crowded and mostly frequented by Foreigners.

Baga beach - Very crowded beach with lots of Indian crowd and few foreigners. Beach has lots of good beach shacks, adventure sports and dance clubs like Tito's and Mambo's close by.

Calangute beach - Very crowded beach with lots of Indian crowd and few foreigners.

Candolim beach - Amazing beach with very few tourists and lots of foreign crowd. There are some very good expensive restaurants to eat near by.

Sequirem beach - Amazing beach with very few tourists. Few eating options but best place to take sun bath. Beach is near Aguada fort and has Taj vivanta hotel on the sea side.

Colva beach - One of the best white sand beaches in Goa. This beach is near Madgaon station. Beach has few tourists and mostly frequented by Indian people.

If you eat or drink at beach shacks, then you get Beach beds and Umbrellas for free for the whole day in most of the shacks. You can easily get Continental, Indian and Sea food at most of the shacks. Alcohol is quite expensive as compared to what you can buy from a wine shop. Not to mention, you will find wine shop in every nook and corner of touristy places.

You should also try serene beaches of South Goa.

2.) Old goa - A place to cherish old religious vibe of Goa with churches of St. Augistine, Basilica of Bom Jesus and Church of St. Francis of Assisi. In the evening you can visit Panjim and take a ferry tour and try your luck in one of the Casinos.

3.) If you are Electronic Music fan, then throng your way to Vagator and Candolim beach in the last of week of Dec month to attend Sunburn and Supersonic festivals. Goa is quite expensive during new year time but the whole atmosphere and amazing crowd makes the experience worth your money.

4.) If you are a party animal then there are a lot many dance clubs in North Goa you can hop on to. Most of them are reasonably priced and play amazing music till late night. Some of the clubs you should definitely visit are Club Cabana, Love Passion Karma(LPK), Sinq, Mambos and Curlies.

5.) If you are foodie then you can eat lots of Sea Food and drink cheap alcohol everywhere you go in Goa. You should also try local alcohol Fenny made from Kaju and coconuts.

6.) If you like Adventure, then try your hands on water sports at Baga beach, Sequirem beach, Calangute beach and Colva beach. Some of the water sports you can engage in are Para sailing,Water scooters, Banana boat ride, Dinghy sailing, Scuba diving or simple ride in a boat.

7.) If you like biking or cycling, then hire from one of the many rent shops you will find across Goa. You can even hire 4 wheelers or Royal enfields for few days. Just cruise along the narrow streets in remote areas of Goa and stop by to drink fresh coconut water or glass of road side tea.

Frequent searches leading to this page:-

why visit goa, why to visit goa, why people go to goa, reasons to visit goa, tourism in goa

Goa Packages

More Stories For Goa

Further Reads

• Logout Login
• Adventure Holidays
• Weekend Getaways
• Driving Holidays
• Travel News

5 must-visit places in South Goa for an unforgettable vacation

TRAVEL TRENDS , GOA Created : Sep 11, 2024, 09:00 IST

Planning a trip to South Goa, but have only beaches in mind? Wait! While you might be of the opinion that Goa is only about beaches, then think again. This part of Goa is actually more lively than that of North Goa. You will find a mix of everything here, from serene beaches, wealth of natural beauty, ancient monuments, and a mix of everything to suit every kind of traveller. So, here we have curated a list of 5 must-visit locations that actually capture the essence of South Goa.

Dudhsagar Falls, Goa

This place needs no introduction. It is one of the most iconic waterfalls in that county that turns into a sight to behold, especially during the monsoon season, when the waters gush down with full pressure. It’s interesting to note that the term ‘Dudhsagar’ translates to ‘Sea of Milk,’ which aptly describes its character of milky-white cascade of water flowing from a height of around over 300 m. Why visit this place you might ask. Well, you can trek through the lush green forests or take a jeep safari through Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary for an experience to remember.

Agonda Beach

Well the list had to have a beach. When in Goa, you just can’t ignore beaches entirely. So for all the beach lovers out there, Agonda Beach is truly a hidden gem in South Goa. This long stretch of golden sand will let you enjoy sunbathing, take leisurely walks, or just relax and let your senses calm down with the soothing sound of the waves. Also, since this beach is not that commercialised, you can rest easy as it won’t be crowded for sure.

Se Cathedral Church

Se Cathedral Church in Old Goa is a brilliant instance of Portuguese colonial architecture. Built in the 16th century, it stands as one in all the biggest churches in Asia. Its beautiful white façade and intricately designed interiors, presenting altars devoted to diverse saints, make it a prominent spiritual and ancient attraction. The church’s bell, referred to as the ‘Golden Bell,’ is one of the biggest in the world, and makes for an intriguing place to visit.

Cabo De Rama Fort

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, Cabo De Rama Fort offers panoramic views and glimpse into Goa’s rich past. Over the time, the fortress has changed multiple hands between Hindus, Portuguese, and British rulers, thereby each leaving their mark. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, soak up in lovely ocean views, and immerse themselves in the fortress’s storied history. The quiet surroundings and the natural beauty make this place a super special spot for photography and leisurely walks.

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

For nature enthusiasts, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most sought after vacation spots in South Goa. Spanning over 240 sq km, this sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, where one can spot animals like leopards, deer, and other species. The sanctuary also serves as the gateway to Dudhsagar Falls, and offers a rich biodiverse environment for trekkers and wildlife lovers alike.

Visual Stories

Scenic hill station train journeys in North India

9 ‘mini Switzerlands’ of India: How many have you visited?

Top 10 eco-friendly travel destinations in India

Top 10 countries with world’s oldest (65+) population

Top 10 beaches to visit across India this October

India’s famous tigers and tigresses: The legends of the wild

9 reasons to experience autumn in Kashmir

Top 10 most expensive cities in the world

8 lesser-known villages to visit in Himachal Pradesh

National parks in India that will reopen for tourists in October

Join Us On Facebook Close

Poll of the day, which of these is one of earth's oldest geographical feature, comments (0).

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive . Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.

Comments ( ) Sort: Newest UpVoted Oldest Discussed Down Voted closecomments

SIGN IN WITH

Or post without registration, trending stories.

• Planning a trip to Singapore? Here are 5 things you should leave behind

• 5 unique things that exist only in Japan

Indians can travel to these 10 gorgeous countries visa-free!

Predjama Castle: World’s largest cave fortress and its secret canals

Planning your first international trip? Top tips and destinations for Indian travellers

Uttarakhand on high alert: Landslides at prime routes leading to Badrinath

5 Bollywood-inspired romantic international destinations to visit in 2024

The village of Tumbbad is for real and also the mystery surrounding it

Agra: Heavy rain leads to water leakage from Taj Mahal's main dome; ASI on high alert

From around the web, popular galleries.

5 best destinations to experience snowfall in India this October

10 pretty countries that you can visit with this single visa

Follow us on

Latest news.

• Is it possible to visit 30 countries in a day? Find out if you can

Congratulations!

You have been successfully added to the mailing list of Times of India Travel. To complete the subscription process, kindly open your inbox and click on the confirmation link which has been emailed to you.

Share with friends

Thank You for sharing! Your friend will receive the article link on email mentioned.

• (For more than one recipient, type addresses separated by commas)

Planning a trip to South Goa, but have only beaches in mind? Wait! While you might be of the opinion that Goa is only about beaches, then think again. This part of Goa is actually more lively than tha...