Do you also get cravings for a Goa trip with your friends but don't know how to plan it well? This may help, but let us first consider why to explore the picturesque places to visit in Goa. Here is the answer -- Goa is not only famous for its nightlife, partying vibes, rich solitary beaches, alcohol but also for its century-old history, culture and traditions, cuisine and crafts. Goa has several names as Gopakapattana, Gopakapuri, Govem, S...
Do you also get cravings for a Goa trip with your friends but don't know how to plan it well? This may help, but let us first consider why to explore the picturesque places to visit in Goa. Here is the answer -- Goa is not only famous for its nightlife, partying vibes, rich solitary beaches, alcohol but also for its century-old history, culture and traditions, cuisine and crafts. Goa has several names as Gopakapattana, Gopakapuri, Govem, Sindapur, etc. In the Konkan region, it falls on the south-western coastal India whose capital is Panaji or Panjim. The ancient monuments in Portuguese style, Christian festivals, local Konkani language, and Hindu Nataks are an example of the union of religion. The western culture of Goa attracts many visitors and here the travellers feel like in-heaven throughout the year. Smooth sand beaches with bears and uncountable water sports invite people around the globe. Goa is one of the major tourist places not only in India but in the world.
In the 3rd century, Goa was under the rule of the Maurya Empire and in the 2nd century, under the rule of the Bhojas. Then it was surrendered to the Chalukyas. During King Ashoka and Magadha, the Buddhists laid the foundation for Buddhism here. Goa was possessed by the Mughals in 1312. In 1510, the Portuguese ownership of the town began and lasted for 450 years. After the Independence, the Portuguese were removed from the city. In 1961, Operation Vijay proved to be successful and Goa was annexed. On 30 May 1987, Goa was made India's 25th state.
Goa is affected enormously by the influence of Western culture. Christmas, New year, Easter, Carnival are some of the Western festivals. The people of Goa also celebrate Hindu festivals such as Dasara, Diwali, Holi, Chavoth, etc. The Christmas- new year and solstice carnivals attract a huge number of tourists from both inside and outside of the country. It is often said that "Goans are born with music and sport". Cultural music and dance is an important part of their lives. Western instruments like Guitar, Piano, and dances like Salsa and Contemporary are seen mostly. The Goan people are fond of Natak and theatre. Jagor and Perni Jagor are ancient folk dances. The cinema of Goa is rich in content and visuals. This is called Konkani Cinema. The film Paltadchi Manis is about a widowed forest ranger which has been in the nominees for World's Best Films.
The cuisine of Goa
Goan cuisine can be varied from the Catholic style to the Hindu style. Rice with fish curry is the main food here and visitors wait for the delicious seafood dishes to arrive at their table. Local spices and coconut oil are heavily used in cooking. Khatkhate, a mixed vegetable stew, including at least 5 vegetables, is famous during festivals for both Hindus and Christians. Feni is the major alcoholic beverage made from double distillation of the fruit juice of cashew tree. The single distillation is Urrak. Similarly, there is coconut feni from palm trees. Goa is well-known for its rich alcohol and wine culture.
Shopping places in Goa
Markets as well as malls, Goa has covered it all! If you are a party animal with a side interest for that influencer western look, you would enjoy the markets of Goa explicitly. Anjuna Flea Market, a popular places to visit in Goa, sells items such as jewellery, handicrafts, clothing, accessories every Wednesday. Saturday Night Market in Arpora, another most explored places to visit in Goa, is very pleasant for its open-air events. Mapusa Municipal Market has all the spices, seafood, mats and everything local, and this is the most explored places to visit in Goa among locals. The fashionable beachwear, leather goods, carpets, jewellery, metal crafts can be easily available at the Calangute Market Square. The Tibetan Market at Baga Road is famous for rustic jewellery, handmade Tibetan goodies and apparel. Ashwem Beach Market at Mandrem is again one of the popular market places of Goa which offers everything on your list, from home decor to fancy items. Even though the price here is comparatively high, it is a place not worth missing. CocoRoots at Anjuna-Mapusa road has some of the best jewellery made up of oyster shells, woods, and tribal patterns. Beach Candy of Morjim has the best trendiest clothes to offer.
Places to visit in Goa
Calangute Beach is the longest beach in North Goa and is situated 15 km from the capital city. Due to its heavy popularity, it is known as the "Queen of Beaches". The beach offers countless watersports and is one of the popular places to visit in Goa.
Aguada Fort is the 17th century-old Fort located 18 km from Panjim that reflects Portuguese characteristics. The lighthouse, Aguada Central Jail are the highlights and because of that, it is the popular places to visit in Goa.
Stretched about 2 km, Anjuna Beach is one among the other rocky beaches and extremelt popular places to visit in Goa that escalated the tourism of the state. The nightlife here is a must-watch and Anjuna Beach is also called the "Jewel of Ozran ''.
Dudhsagar translates to the Sea of Milk, located 60 km from Panaji and is one of the tallest waterfalls of India and one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Goa. It is inside the Mollem National Park and visiting costs 20 rs per person.
One of the most common and special forts of Goa is Chapora Fort, 17 km far from Mapusa which is known as the "Dil Chahta Hai Fort". The place is a 10-minute climb and ruin. People use it for trekking and this is why it is in the list of beautiful places to visit in Goa.
Baga Beach is one of the most popular beaches and most popular places to visit in Goa, located 30 km north of Panjim. Very prolific eateries, tattoo shops, cafes, street shops are available here that fill every kind of traveller's heart.
Basilica of Bom Jesus is the oldest church in Goa, at Bainguinim, 10 km away from the capital. This simplifies the arrival of Christianity in India and is famous for Baroque architecture. This is yet another most spiritual places to visit in Goa.
Butterfly Beach is one of the lesser-known beaches and less explored places to visit in Goa which can be reached by boat from the nearer beaches. People come here in mass to spectate the dolphins. "Honeymoon Beach" is its other name.
Arambol Beach is one of the secluded and peaceful places to visit or beaches to have fun at in the northernmost Goa. The sunset on the seashore is a sight to watch.
Located 21 km from Panjim, Vegator Beach is one of the most happening beaches and popular places to visit in North Goa. The nightlife and water sports can be enjoyed here. The white sands and rocky cliffs are famous.
Fontainhas being presented at Panjim is the best places to visit in Goa for your Instagram-worthy pictures. The houses, villas, cafes and colourful streets embody traditional Portuguese and Latin influence in the area.
Because of the peace and tranquillity, several Russians and other foreigners highly visit the Beach hence known as "Little Russia". The 3 km long beach is quite costly and also "Home of the Olive Ridley Turtles".
Se Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Catherine is one of the largest churches of India and highly popular places to visit in Goa. Built-in the Portuguese- Manueline architecture, the church is 250 feet high and located in old Goa. The large bell inside the cathedral is known as the "Golden Bell".
How to reach Goa?
Goa is one of the major tourist places in India and hence well connected to every national and internationally important city.
- Airways: The international airport is Dabolim and is situated 29 km far from Panjim. It is connected safely to major cities and taxis are available 24/7 at the airport.
- Roadways: Both private and government bus services are available. Kadamba Bus Stand is the nearest bus stop and thousands of buses provide their transportation.
- Railways: Madgaon and Vasco-da-Gama are the major railway stations in Goa and numerous trains link this city to others.
Best time to visit Goa
Goa falls under a tropical monsoon climate and has hot and humid weather throughout the year.
- Summer: March to June- 23° C to 35°C (hot and high humidity)
- Rainy: June to September- 24°C to 32°C (heavy rains)
- Winter: December to February- 20°C to 30°C (not very chilly)