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Goa is the most popular destination for beachside holidays in India. It is the smallest state in the country by area, located on the southwestern coast. The region is blessed with beautiful scenic views, magnificent beaches, glorious natural landforms, tons of popular tourist attractions, and much more. It was also a major site of Portuguese colonial settlement in Asia, which reigned from 1510 to 1961. Now, Goa is one of Indias most visited tourist places, with visitors flocking to the region all year round. Alongside domestic travelers, tourists from around the globe visit Goa to witness its rich flora and fauna, incredible white-sand beaches, religious and historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, delicious regional cuisine, and much more.
Goa has everything you would hope for in terms of adventure. It is a paradise for tourists who want to participate in exciting activities during their trip, like beach hopping, water sports, dolphin spotting, hot-air ballooning, etc. Adding to its aspect of fun activities, tourists can also spend time exploring the local culture and tradition, trying out street food, going on a shopping spree, and much more during their visit. There are many wonderful places to see in Goa, including forts, churches, famous restaurants and pubs, wildlife reserves, etc. For example, you can find rare animal species at the Mandovi-Zuari Wildlife Sanctuary, go on a religious trip to the Se Cathedral, check out the historical background of the Chapora Fort, and so on. It also acts as a great starting point for a long tour of Indias southwestern region. Some popular places to visit near Goa include Dandeli, Gokarna, Panchgani, Malvan, etc. All of these aspects make Goa a must-visit holiday destination in the country.
Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Goa that you need to check out during your trip:
Located just 18 kilometres from Panaji, Anjuna beach is a must-visit site for parties and adventure activities in Goa. It stretches about 2 kilometres and is an exciting place for visitors who want to enjoy Goas nightlife. Its main attractions are its full moon parties, held during Christmas and New Year.
It remains filled with visitors during the peak season and features some magnificent views of the region. In addition, the glorious nightlife, delectable seafood dishes, beach-side parties, and water activities make Baga beach immensely popular among tourists. Hence, it is one of the best places to visit in Goa.
Calangute beach is another popular tourist attraction in Goa for both domestic and international visitors. It is a marvelous location for participating in water activities, trying out local seafood, and sunbathing.
Goas Dudhsagar waterfall is one of the most majestic waterfalls in the region. It has a height of about 1017 feet and an average width of 100 feet. This magnificent waterfall, surrounded by green landforms, is one of the best places to visit in Goa.
The Shri Bhagvati Temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, is believed to be over 500 years old. This religious landmark is a well-known Goa tourist spot, famous for its history and architectural beauty.
The Arvalem Waterfall in Goa has its own set of charms. Even though it is just 50 metres high and 7 metres wide, its mesmerising views during the monsoon make it a prime location for a picnic and general tourism in Goa. Swimming in the beautiful lake below Arvalem Waterfalls is also a bucket-list item for many tourists.
Presiding over the Chapora river, this fort is a crucial historical landmark in Goa. Chapora fort is located in Bardez and offers excellent views of Pernem, Vagator and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the best places to visit in Goa for its historical essence and picturesque views.
The St. Francis of Assisi Church is one of the most beautiful churches you can visit in Goa. Some of its key highlights include the Portuguese-Manueline building architecture, octagonal towers, detailed wall paintings of Bible scenes and the Archaeological Museum of History.
The Shri Mahalaxmi Temple, located just 4 kilometres from Ponda, is a very important religious landmark of the region. This beautiful temple is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi and is visited by many tourists and devotees in Goa.
The Cabo Fort, originally called “Cabo De Rama”, is one of the oldest forts in Goa. It served under various rulers, including the Portuguese. Today, it is a massive point of tourist interest, famous for its views, the inner Church, and historical background.
The Church of St. Cajetan is one of the many highlights of Old Goa. It was originally dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence, and its architecture resembles the St. Peters Basilica in Rome. Some of its main attractions are the facade, the hemispherical dome and the twin quadrangular towers.
Goas Candolim Beach is one of the longest beaches in the region. Located near Fort Aguda, this beach is famous for its peaceful atmosphere and availability of a wide range of watersports, shops, and restaurants. It ranks high on the must-visit Goa tourist places list.
The construction of Saint Anne Church in Goa began in the late 1500s and finished in the late 1600s. This religious structure is a fine example of an architectural blend of Indian and Portuguese Baroque styles. It is just 11 kilometers from Panaji and is famous for its hollow walls and Touxeachem Fest.
The Shri Mahalasa temple is another prominent religious landmark in Goa. This beautiful temple, dedicated to the worship of Shri Mahalasa Narayani, is said to be over 450 years old. It is located in Mardol, just 22 kilometers from Panaji city.
This 17th-century Church is a prime tourist attraction in Goa. Even though most of the structure is in ruins, it still draws a massive crowd around the calendar. Its main attraction is the remains of the belfry of the 150 feet high Bell Tower.
Shri Nagesh is a famous sightseeing attraction in Goa for a spiritual tour. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and houses intricate wood carvings that depict various scenes from the epic Ramayana. The granite idol of Nandi at the temple entrance is also quite popular among devotees.
The Terekhol fort, located by the side of the Tiracol river, is a vital historical landmark in Goa. It is just 42 kilometres from Panaji and offers magnificent views of the Keri beach and Tiracol river.
Palolem beach is one of the most visited beaches in South Goa. It attracts various types of tourists, including youths, couples and families. It is famous for its picturesque views, availability of quality accommodations, thrilling activities and vibrant nightlife.
Chapora beach is a charming location surrounded by clear blue water on one side and lush greenery on the other. It is located close to the Chapora Fort and Chapora Village. The beach is famous for offering great scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere.
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most beautiful churches in the region. It is a World Heritage Site, and its intricate Baroque architecture dates back to the 16th century. The Basilica of Bom Jesus holds major significance among the Catholics and is one of the must visit places in Goa.
Mayem Lake, located far from bustling city life, is a peaceful getaway within Goa. It is surrounded by serene water, local villages, small hills and vast greenery. It is also a great spot for trekking, bungee jumping and bird watching.
This unique festival in Goa attracts tourists from across the globe. The Grape Escapade is ideally a wine festival that brings together people from all over the region under one roof. It is a 4-5 day event, usually celebrated in January.
The Goa Carnival is regarded as the most popular festival in the region. This world-renowned festival features colorful costumes, melodic music, exotic dance routines, delectable foods and drinks, and much more.
This festival aims to celebrate the authentic heritage, culture and cuisine of Goa. It is a 5-day event featuring newcomers and veteran chefs offering their version of Goan delicacies to the food-loving crowd. Rhythmic music, dances and other events are also a part of this festival.
The Goa Mango Fest is a fun event that celebrates Goan mangoes. It showcases individuals how to grow, cultivate, preserve, graft and use mangoes in various ways. Participating in these informative workshops is a great way to spend a vacation day.
This is a very interesting festival celebrated in Goa at the beginning of the Monsoon. The festival is dedicated to St. John the Baptist and involves young men jumping into wells, streams and ponds as a tribute. Boat races and feni are the prime elements of this festival.
The Goa International Latin Festival is another key attraction of Goa tourism. It features artists from India as well as other parts of the world performing dance and hosting informative workshops.
The Goa Arts and Literature Festival is a famous annual literary event held in December. This event brings together popular poets, musicians and artists from across India under one roof.
It is one of the biggest music festivals in India. It features famous artists from the country as well as the world and attracts a massive crowd. The high-energy ambience, delicious food and drinks, and excellent music make Sunburn in Goa a popular tourist attraction.
Goa is a treasure box of fun and thrilling activities for tourists. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Goa:
Here are some popular shopping areas in Goa for buying souvenirs and gifts:
Here are some must-check-out restaurants for delicious food during your Goa trip:
Goas vibrant nightlife attracts both domestic and international tourists alike. It offers a beautiful fusion of culture, tasty foods and drinks, a magical ambience, and great music. Some of the best places to visit in Goa for its nightlife are:
Anjuna beach is one of the popular attractions in Goa stretching over 30 km. It houses rocky shores and white sands. It houses various shacks that offer an array of choices to the visitors. One can enjoy at the beach as well as chill at one of the electrifying pubs while exploring Anjuna.
Location: North Goa, located around 18 km away from Panaji
Known for: Anjuna Flea Market, Goan shacks, Night bazaars on Saturdays
How to reach: By flight, nearest airport is Dabolim which is 47 kms away from Anjuna beach and 29 kms away from Panaji. By rail, Karmali and Thivim are the nearest railway station situated 29 and 19 kms respectively away from Anjuna beach whereas Karmali is only 11 kms away from Panaji. By roadways, beach is well connected via NH17 from Panaji and Mapusa convenient for travelling by car or bus. Goa can be reached conveniently from any part of the country and is well connected by air, rail and road network.
Cost: NA
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Type: Beach
Another famous beach in Goa. This is a beautiful destination that also offers various water sporting activities. Relishing Goan delicacies, partying post-sunset, shopping around are the other activities that you can indulge in while exploring Baga Beach.
Location: North Goa
Known for: Scuba diving, motor boat ride, jet skiing, banana boat ride, river cruise, dolphin rides as well as Ayurvedic Spa
How to reach: By flight, nearest airport is Dabolim which is 50 kms away from Baga beach. By rail, Karmali and Panaji are the nearest railway station situated 17 and 15 kms respectively away from Baga beach. By roadways, beach is 30 minutes away from Panaji and 15 minutes from Mapusa convenient for travelling by car or bus. Goa can be reached conveniently from any part of the country and is well connected by air, rail and road network.
Cost: NA
Operating hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm
Type: Beach
Nestled between Goa and Karnataka border is the majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls, which when literally translated means ‘sea of milk’ in Konkan. Located in Sanguem Taluka, near Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, Mollem, the waterfall originates from Karnataka flowing from the Deccan Plateau into the river Mandovi towards the imposing Sahyadri Western Ghats cascading from a height of 300 meters and splitting into three streams, forming a deep green pool with clouds of milky foam rising up at the base before continuing its journey to join the Arabian Sea in the west. The magnificent waterfall is an enchanting spectacle to behold as it vehemently gushes down appearing as a heavy stream of milk flowing effortlessly from a distance.
Perched at the top of a crescent shaped valley and surrounded by lush pristine verdant forest with a rich biodiversity, Dudhsagar Waterfalls offers an unparalleled, magical and mesmerizing view that attracts a large number of local and foreign tourists.
The appearance of the waterfall as milky has a legend associated with it. Apparently there was a wealthy king who ruled the western ghats and had an opulent palace with a vast landscape of a flourishing garden and abundance of animals roaming freely there. His daughter was a beautiful princess who used to bathe in the lake close to the palace and drink sweetened milk from a golden jug ritually post bathing. One day as a prince was passing by the river he noticed the princess. Embarrassed at being watched in her inadequate bathing attire, she poured the jug of milk in front of her to shield herself, thus forming a curtain of milky water to cover herself. Hence, from that day onwards the waterfall has had a milky appearance.
To reach the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one has to hire a jeep which carries 6 passengers only from tour operators run by the government of Goa’s forest department that will include a driver cum guide tour from Mollem to the base of the Dushsagar Waterfalls. The bumpy rocky ride will take you through the hilly topography of the scenic dense riveting tropical forest where you can also spot monkeys in abundance and small creeks to the parking base from where it’s a 10km trek a stream of water to the captivating sights of the charming waterfall where you can swim along with the fishes or dip your feet in the pool and relax. Every visitor is provided a lifejacket which is mandatory to wear when visiting the Dudhsagar waterfalls.
As you pass through the sanctuary, which is a residence to a diverse range of bird species and a bird watchers paradise, you can witness paradise fly catcher, grey jungle fowl, kingfishers, great Indian hornbill, fairy blue bird, drongo etc. Some of the animals found around here are langur, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boar, flying squirrel, civet etc.
The best time to visit is during October to May as the jeep safari stops operating during the monsoon season. During monsoons the waterfall swells up due to the heavy rainfall and the pool deepens making it unsafe to swim in. Goa can be reached conveniently from any part of the country and is well connected by air, rail and road network.
Sonaulim, Goa 403410
Adventure Seekers and Nature Lovers
Air: The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport, Goa. From there you can hire a cab to Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Train: The nearest station at a distance of 6km is Collem station. From there, you can either hire a taxi or take a bus.
Road: With well-connected roads, private and state buses run daily to Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
Dedicated to lord Bhagavati, this ancient temple of Goa is a much-visited pilgrimage destination by various pilgrims. Tourists from all over come here to pay a visit, especially during festivals and events.
Location: Parshem city, Goa
Known for: Boating, birds watching, peddle boating, shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs.
How to reach: By rail, Margao and Vasco Da Gama are major railway stations.By roadways, located few kilometres from Morjim, you can take bus or drive from Dabolim airport. You can also make use of ferry services from Mapusa and Pernem to Morjim with Mapusa being the nearest bus station. Goa can be reached conveniently from any part of the country and is well connected by air, rail and road network.
Operating hours: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Type: Temple
The extraordinary beauty of Arvalem waterfalls attracts a huge number of tourists each year owing to its mesmerizing beauty and surroundings. The water here falls from an elevation of 70 feet. Further, it forms a beautiful lake at the bottom.
Location: 9 km south from the town of Bicholim
Known for: Swimming
How to reach: By roadways, you can take bus or drive from Mapusa and Panaji to Arvalem. KTC bus station in Mapusa being the nearest bus station. You can also rent motorbike or taxi on your way to Arvalem. Goa can be reached conveniently from any part of the country and is well connected by air, rail and road network.
Cost: NA
Operating hours: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Any precautions / must carry items: Good pair of shoes, raincoat if visiting in monsoon
Type: Waterfall
The popular Mahalaxmi Temple is one of the popular pilgrim places of Goa that is visited by various tourists each year in bulk. Dedicated to goddess Laxmi this temple is considered sacred by the Hindu community but is visited by tourists of numerous cultures including tourists from foreign lands as well.
Location: Ponda, Goa
Known for: Wooden gallery of images of lord Vishnu
How to reach: By rail, it is 37 kms from Vasco Da Gama railway station and 22 kms from Margao railway station. By roadways, you can take bus from Kadamba bus terminus which is only 27 kms away from the temple. You can also rent motorbike or taxi on your way to the temple. Goa can be reached conveniently from any part of the country and is well connected by air, rail and road network.
Cost: NA
Operating Hours: 6.00 am - 8.00 pm
Type: Temple
This is a peaceful beach of Goa that is housed within 15 km radius of Panjim City. The back of the beach boasts dunes that are covered with vast scrub stretches is one of the major attractions of this beach. It houses a peaceful and calm ambiance.
Location: North Goa
Known for: water skiing, windsurfing, parasailing, angling, yoga, meditation, boat excursions
How to reach: At a distance of 45 km, Dabolimis the nearest airport from where you can take a taxi to reach here. If arriving by train, you can again hire a taxi from the railway station (Thivim, 21 km away). Buses also run from Panaji (12 km) to Candolim beach in Goa.
Cost: NA
Operating Hours: NA
Type: Beach
This ancient temple of Goa is another major attraction while touring the state. This is a structure that is housed in Goa long before the Portuguese invasion took place. Goddess Malalsa is worshipped in this temple. At the very entrance, a huge DiptaStambha comprised of five metals welcomes the tourists. Crafted back in the seventeenth century this Stambha flaunts exquisite carvings of wood. This showcases the talent of the ancient artisans and craftsmen.
Location: Mardol, Prilol, Goa
Known for: Exquisite wood carvings and beautiful construction of the temple.
How to reach: Upon reaching Goa you can either take a local bus that runs on Ponda-Mardol route or hire a taxi from Kaarrmali Railway Satation located near the temple.
Cost: NA
Operating Hours: 6:30 AM - 8:30 PM
Type: Temple
This particular fort will reveal a lot of history of Goa. This ancient fort is named after TerekholRiver that resides in the southern part of the massive fort. Various paddy fields surround the fort. One must plan a visit to this fort while exploring Goa.
Location: Terekhol River, North Goa
Known for: Scenic vista of the seascape
How to reach: You can hire a taxi to reach Terekhol from anywhere in North Goa. The river can be crossed via a ferry. While bikers and pedestrians usually get a free ride, those driving cars may have to pay a small fee.
Cost: NA
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Type: Palace/ Historical site
A perfect location for the peace seekers who flock to goa. You can sunbathe, walk along the sandy shores as well as enjoy the water currents to the core. The scenic beauty of this beach is absolutely breathtaking for all. It is also closely located to the famous Chapora Fort that flaunts admirable Portugese kind of architecture.
Location: North Goa
Known for: Boat buildingandangling
How to reach: You can drive or take a cab or bus from Mapusa, located at 10 km away, to reach the place. Alternatively, you can also hire a taxi, car or even a bike from Panaji (24 km away) to reach Chapora. Goa can be reached conveniently from any part of the country and is well connected by air, rail and road network.
Cost: NA
Operating Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Type: Beach
A perfect market place for the foodies. This market place is jam-packed with food stalls where you can try out relishing cuisine. The items that this market flaunts are eco-friendly including a hige range of localy crafted handicrafts. It features live music as well as a dance floor which makes Mackie’s Night Bazaar a unique place to visit. You can buy various gift items as well as a number of souvenirs of various kinds. An ample of Goan bands also give live performances which must be witnessed at least once in Goa.
Location: Baga Beach, MarinhaDourada Road
Timing: Saturdays6:00 PM- Until late in the night
Popular for: Live music performed by local bands, souvenirs, handicrafts, stalls serving multiple cuisines.
Bargaining: Necessary
To perfectly spend a Saturday evening in Goa you must head to the Saturday night bazaar. Here you will find plenty of kiosks that offer carpets, clothes, embroidered textiles, accessories as well as spices. The market offers various high-quality handicrafts that are both expensive and rare to find elsewhere. These handicrafts are produced by the locals. The foreigners love this marketplace to the core and so this place has become an attraction of Goa.
Location: Arpora
Timing: 6:00 PM- Until late in the night
Popular for: Try refreshing cocktails at Boutique House Bar especially the strawberry daiquiri, embroidered textiles, high quality handicrafts.
Bargaining: Necessary
The popular and liveliest most market of Goa. It is set up every Wednesday in North Goa in the Anjuna Beach. Since it has an ideal location it is one of the most visited markets of Goa. The market offers a wide range of items including spices, handicrafts, footwear, beachwear, accessories as well as artificial jewelry. You can try out your bargaining skills here and strike a great deal. You can also purchase tiny trinkets as well as clothes that flaunt the vibe of Goa in its making.
Location: Anjuna Beach
Timing: Wednesdays 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Popular for: Various items including handicrafts, accessories, clothes.
Bargaining: Necessary
If you desire to have the local flavor of Goa then make sure to take a stroll through the famous Mapusa Market. Vendors from all over the state come here to set up stalls and sell their authentic items. You might be lucky enough to find antiques, beautiful textiles, Goan handicrafts, fruits, spices, homemade sausages, and pickles, traditional handicrafts etc. It offers varying choices as well to pick your suited one from. The market is set up in a huge spread area so take enough time to explore it in totality, attractions of Goa.
Location: Mapusa, North Goa
Timings: It shuts down at the time of sunset
Popular for: It is popular for spices
Bargaining: Necessary