If chilling at a shack, sipping on an even more chilled beverage and simply watching the world turn on its axis is what you desire, then a Goa tour is what you need! Goa conjures mental images of golden sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, calm yoga retreats and not-so-calm parties. Situated along the west coast of India, Goa is one of the smallest territories in the country. This beachside gem of India has a 100 km long coastline which stretches across the whole state, making Goa one large beach paradise. Calangute Beach, Candolim Beach and Baga Beach are some of the famous beaches. But there are beaches that lie off the beaten path, known to but a few. However, Goa isn't limited to just beaches. It is a destination that keeps surprising you with unexpected gems and the best way to find these is by taking a Goa tour package with Thomas Cook India.

If there's one thing Goa knows, it is how to throw the ultimate party. Along with parties and nightlife, one can also enjoy adventurous activities and watersports on their trip to Goa. Not to forget Goa's culinary heritage which is like a Goan holiday for your taste buds, which will give them a break from their regular fare and tantalise and tease them. Warm people, pleasant weather and no shortage of things to do in Goa make it a mecca for holiday seekers. Whether you are planning a long vacation with friends or desire a holiday with your family, Goa is the place to be.

What is the best way to reach Goa? Some would say you could drive down taking the scenic route. Others prefer flying to get here quickly and get the party started. And a few would rather take a leisurely cruise to reach the beach capital of India. Still, the best way to get here is by simply choosing from Thomas Cook India’s range of Goa tour packages to see Goa in a new light. Visiting Thomas Cook India’s website, you will find Goa tour packages for every kind of Goa package. Right from brief Goa tours lasting 3 nights and 4 days to a leisurely Goa holiday that takes 8 nights and 9 days, embodying Goa's spirit of 'sussegado'. With Thomas Cook India's Goa tour packages, every Goa trip is what you make it. You are firmly in control of every aspect of your Goa holiday package, right from the budget, with pocket-friendly Goa trip packages starting at INR 7,099/-, to premium Goa holidays that cost about INR 5,02,597/-, to the itinerary and even travel costs. Every Goa tour package by Thomas Cook India is personalised to your comfort and taste.

The Goa tour packages at Thomas Cook India are curated by a team of travel experts whose goal is to make your Goa tours full of memories that last a lifetime. Every aspect of your trip to Goa is carefully chalked out considering the unique requirements, diverse interests and budget of every individual. Right from accommodation to sightseeing choices and transportation to meals, every facet of your Goa holiday is given a great deal of thought. What’s more? Thomas Cook India's Goa tour packages are available from all major cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi and Cochin.

If you want to learn more about Goa before your trip to Goa, then visit our Goa tourism section which has resources covering everything you need to know such as things to do in Goa, best time to visit in Goa, places to see in Goa and much more.

Table of Contents

• Most Popular Goa Tour Packages
• Best Time to Visit Goa
• How to Reach Goa?
• Best honeymoon destinations in Goa
• Places to Visit in Goa
  • North Goa
  • South Goa
• The Top 5 Beaches in Goa
• Food in Goa
• Things to do in Goa
• Shopping in Goa
• Adventurous things to do in Goa
• Interesting Facts about Goa
• People also ask about Goa Tour Packages

Most Popular Goa Tour Packages 

Best Time to Visit Goa

The best time to visit Goa is from mid-November to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the sky is clear. It is the perfect time to unwind at the beach and explore this beautiful state. During December, Goa witnesses some major celebrations like Christmas and New Year. The winter season in Goa is marked by several carnivals, parades, parties and festivals. During winter, the restaurants and streets are decorated with lights and decorations, making it a tropical winter wonderland. As winter also happens to be the peak tourist season for Goa tours and travels, it’s advisable to book flight tickets and accommodations way prior. You can easily find multiple Goa packages for these months.

Alternatively, if you wish to indulge in some water sports on your Goa tour or simply just laze around at the beach, summer proves to be the best time to visit Goa. Spend considerably less money on accommodation and travel during Summer as it is an off-season. If you wish to indulge in some yoga retreats and massage therapies, summer afternoons are the best time to keep you hale and hearty. Also get a chance to witness some amazing festivals like Shigmo - a street festival that portrays Goan culture in the form of folk dances and music, Easter, Grape Escapade - a wine festival, India Bike Week, the Goa Heritage Festival and much more! Go through our website to find suitable Goa packages for your trip during the summer season.

How to Reach Goa

Reaching Goa by Air

There is only one airport in Goa that connects all domestic and international destinations and that is Dabolim airport. It is situated near Vasco da Gama and is located about 29 km from Panaji. Travelling to Goa with Thomas Cook India’s Goa tours is an easy affair as you can board a flight from all the major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Cochin, Kolkata and Chennai. Also, note that most of our Goa packages come with the inclusion of optional flights.

Reaching Goa by Rail

Many tourists opt for train travel to save money on transport for their Goa tours. There are two main railheads located in the state which are Vasco da Gama and Madgaon. Vasco da Gama railway station is located about 29 km away from Panaji while Madgaon station lies about 38 km away. From the railheads, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to get to other tourist destinations in Goa.

Reaching Goa by Road

In addition to the previous modes of travel, you can hire a private car for your Goa trip or take a bus from nearby cities like Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore. You can take the NH4, which is well-maintained and extremely smooth while travelling to Goa from these cities. Take NH14 if you wish to travel to Goa from the south.

Reaching Goa by Sea

Goa can also be reached by sea route. There are certain cruises that cover the route from Mumbai to Panaji.

Best honeymoon destinations in Goa

Goa can also be reached by sea route. There are certain cruises that cover the route from Mumbai to Panaji. Have your dream vacation in Goa with your loved one by going with the honeymoon special Goa packages offered by Thomas Cook.

Places to Visit in Goa

Despite being a beach hub, there’s many other things to do in Goa ranging from visiting beautiful historical churches to adventure activities, ayurvedic retreats, culinary classes and much more. Here are the different  places to visit in Goa.

North Goa

• Panaji or Panjim : Lying on the banks of the Mandovi river, Panaji is the cultural and administrative heart of Goa. Home to some beautiful churches and quaint quarters, Panaji offers a snapshot of Goa's true culture and heritage and is an interesting addition to your Goa trip. Its Portuguese inspired architecture makes it seem quite European while it's many fish thali restaurants bring you aromas and tastes that are uniquely Indian. Panaji’s streets are also lined with glowing gulmohars and acacias, which make walking around this planned city an absolute delight. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fort Aguada, Goa Archaeological Museum, Reis Magos Fort and other stunning destinations are just a stone's throw away from Panaji. It is often seen as the starting point for tours in most Goa trip packages.
  
  
• Velha Goa: This is a must on your Goa itinerary if you happen to be an architecture aficionado. Blessed with some beautiful Portuguese-style churches, tall forts and modern museums, Velha Goa is one of the most iconic places to visit in Goa. Understand more about the rich and cultural past of Goa and interact with the locals get to know about the history of this beautiful city. With quaint and bright coloured houses, local street places to shop for some pretty souvenirs and lip-smacking Goan delicacies to eat - Velha Goa proves that tourism in Goa is not only about beaches!
  
  
• Chapora Fort: Chapora Fort moved out of obscurity and onto the lists of places to visit in North Goa after being featured in the Bollywood blockbuster, Dil Chahta Hai. Built in 1717, the fort has borne witness to various historical events. Standing guard on a hill close to the Chapora River, this defensive structure, once used to deter invaders, now welcomes tourists with excellent views of the surrounding areas offering a palm-fringed panoramic view of villages and the mighty sea. The view alone puts Chapora Fort on everyone's list of places to visit in North Goa.
  
  
• Shri Mahalaxmi Temple : If you are looking for a tourist attraction for spiritual tours while in North Goa, make sure to visit the Shri Mahalaxmi Temple. Located about 4 kilometers from Ponda, it is one of the most crucial religious shrines and a prominent Hindu pilgrimage point in Goa. The temple is dedicated to the deity Goddess Mahalaxmi, and besides devotees, thousands of casual tourists also visit it around the year. According to history, the current shrine was founded in 1866 following the destruction of the original temple by Portuguese attacks. The divine charm, peaceful ambience and traditional Konkani temple architecture of the Shri Mahalaxmi Temple are some of its main highlights. The temple is one of the main highlights of tourism in the region, and you can easily find it in the popular Goa packages.

• Goa State Museum : The Goa State Museum, also called the State Archaeology Museum, is a well-known tourist attraction in Panaji for visitors interested in regional history. Records show that the museum is home to over 8,000 artefacts, ranging from things like ancient sculptures and manuscripts to anthropological objects and rare coins. It features fourteen galleries dedicated to preserving certain aspects of history, like Contemporary Art, Printing History, Sculpture Gallery, etc. It is a must-visit place for history buffs and individuals who want to learn more about Goa while it was under Portuguese colonial rule. Before visiting, tourists must know that the museum has temporarily been shifted to the Old Secretariat Building in the state due to ongoing renovations.

South Goa

• Vasco da Gama: This old town is an epitome of Goa's Portuguese heritage. Dotted with historical monuments, Vasco da Gama is to South Goa what Panjim is to the north. With bustling marketplaces and restaurants serving less touristy and more authentic Goan fare, Vasco da Gama is the complete package. During your Goa holiday in Vasco da Gama, you can also visit off-beat places such as Sahakari spice farms where they organically grow spices, fruits and herbs. Experience everything the town has to offer with suitable Goa packages featuring Vasco da Gama.
  
  
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Dudhsagar, which means ‘sea of milk’, is a gorgeous waterfall located on the Goa-Karnataka border. Surrounded by lush green forests, the waterfall emerges from the top of a crescent shaped valley, making the view of this place magical and mesmerizing. The whole scene presents itself as a beautiful canvas that will be firmly rooted in your memories forever. The sound of birds chirping, rustling trees and the rushing sound of water only enhance the beauty of this place. You can simply go with customisable Goa packages and add this site if it doesn’t come as standard. 
  
  
• Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the eastern part of South Goa, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the must-visit places in South Goa. A paradise for naturalists and those looking for something different from the beaches and regular tourist spots in South Goa, this sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including Giant Squirrel, Great Pied Hornbills, Grey Headed Bulbul, Slender Loris, and an exciting range of mammals, butterflies, and birds. 
  
  
• Three Kings Church: While sightseeing in South Goa, make sure to check out the renowned Three Kings Church. The main reason behind its popularity has to do with the mysterious and haunting stories associated with the place. However, these are mostly rumours, and the beautiful church sitting on top of a small hill offers a more delightful picture than the stories suggest. Tourists looking for a spiritual and serene getaway in Goa other than beaches often make a trip to this church. Also, the view of the sea and the surrounding greenery offer a great setting that will help you relax your mind. If you are visiting in early January, make sure to check out the renowned Feast of Three Kings Chapel event held on January 6th every year. 
  
  
• Cabo de Rama Fort: The Cabo de Rama Fort is another major highlight of South Goa sightseeing. It is a mediaeval hillfort and one of the oldest of its kind in the state. Even though it is mostly in ruins, it still stands tall to date with its incredible architecture and solid build. Located near the mouth of River Sal, the fort offers picturesque views of the shoreline and the ocean. It served under various rulers, with the last being the Portuguese, who converted it into a prison from a military bastion. Tourists like to visit the fort for its rich history, to watch the sunset and take memorable pictures. The church within the premises of the fort is still regularly used. A trip to this fort is a common inclusion in most popular Goa holiday packages. 

The Top 5 Beaches in Goa

While you are looking for Goa holiday packages, here are some of the best Goa beaches you can consider exploring during your visit:

• Arambol Beach: Arambol beach is a beach stuck in time. A throwback to the 'Generation of Love', this beach has a distinct Bohemian vibe that puts it on the list of places to visit in North Goa. It is ideal for those who prefer spending a quiet night in, listening to the waves or taking a moonlit stroll on the beach. This rocky beach is sparsely populated by locals and tourists alike, making it ideal for those wishing to spend some romantic moments with their significant other. You can even shop for knick-knacks and junk jewellery from the small shops lining the beach or have a delicious healthy meal at one of the many quaint, organic cafes around Arambol.
  
  
• Calangute: Do you wish to relax and chill during your Goa Vacation? Calangute is just the place for you! The ‘Queen of Beaches’, as it is famously known, welcomes you with its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife and exciting culture. With a plethora of water sports offered by this beautiful destination, all your adventure cravings will be fed. And oh, how can you forget to try the famous Goan delicacies and freshly brewed beer? With quaint shacks, towering palm trees swaying by the wind and the sea breeze, Calangute is the perfect place to relax and chill.
  
  
• Baga: Wish to swim along beautiful fishes and explore the underwater life? Make your wish come true at this beautiful beach. For the adventure junkie in you, there is a list of water sports in Goa you can indulge in at this alluring beach. Goan delicacies, ayurvedic spas, small food stalls, shacks and a great shopping experience are just a few things that make Baga beach worth visiting.
  
  
• Candolim: Home to vibrant resorts and a glorious beach, Candolim beach packs in a lot of surprises. Soothe and relax your body, mind, and soul with Ayurvedic massages from the experts. Thrilling water sport activities, soft sandy beaches and a chance to spot some alluring dolphins are some things this place will surprise you with!
  
  
• Benaulim: With its bewitching shoreline and shimmering white sands strewn with sea shells, Benaulim oozes the Goan ideal of 'sussegado'. From a quiet dip in the ocean, a picnic on the beach or a beverage at a beach bar, you can do it all here. Compared to other beaches in South Goa,Benaulim and its neighbouring beach, Colva, have a buzzing nightlife scene; so this beach needs to be on your Goa itinerary if you wish to let your hair down and dance all night in South Goa.

Famous Foods in Goa

• Goan Fish Curry
• Chicken Cafreal
• Bebinca

Goan Fish Curry

Goa is blessed with a long coastline, which brings in an opportunity for fishing and an abundant supply of fish. This means fish curry features prominently on most menus in Goa. Fish curry isn't a blanket term or a one size fits all solution to cooking. With ample seafood like prawns, sharks, lobsters, crabs, pomfret, snapper, barramundi, clams, mackerels, mussels, and oysters come ample curries that are just as lip-smacking as the next. The common thread tying them all together is their use of fiery chilli, soothing creamy coconut, piquant spices like Triphala and souring agents like kokum. The combination of fish curry and rice essentially forms the staple food of Goa and can be called the traditional Goan meal. This tangy and spicy curry gives the perfect experience of Goa’s food traditions and culture. Add on a side of fried fish and prepare to be transported to culinary heaven.

Chicken Cafreal

Goa loves its pork and beef. Chicken isn't always the first choice of meat unless its Chicken Cafreal. Originating from Africa, this dish has been brought to Goa by the Portuguese. This is spicy chicken made from coriander, lime, green chillies, peppercorns and mint. Cooking this in the traditional Goan way gives it an additional smoky taste which provides a completely out-of-the-world experience.

Bebinca

Traditionally served during Christmas, Bebinca is one of the most enjoyed desserts of Goa. It is a multi-layered cake made with eggs, fresh coconut milk, sugar and pure ghee. Eaten hot or cold, this confection is laden with calories and love, as making it is no easy feat.

Things to do in Goa