goa tourism guide

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A kaleidoscopic blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, sweetened with sun, sea, sand, seafood, susegad and spirituality, Goa is India's pocket-sized paradise.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Basilica de Bom Jesus

Famous throughout the Roman Catholic world, the imposing Basilica de Bom Jesus contains the tomb and mortal remains of St Francis Xavier, the so-called…

Sé Cathedral

At over 76m long and 55m wide, the cavernous Sé Cathedral is the largest church in Asia. Building commenced in 1562, on the orders of King Dom Sebastiao…

Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Panaji’s spiritual, as well as geographical, centre is this elevated, pearly white church, built in 1619 over an older, smaller 1540 chapel, and stacked…

Artist and restorer Victor Hugo Gomes first noticed the slow extinction of traditional objects – from farming tools to kitchen utensils to altarpieces –…

Braganza House

Braganza House, built in the 17th century and stretching along one whole side of Chandor’s village square, is the biggest Portuguese mansion of its kind…

Reis Magos Fort

Opened to the public in 2012 as a cultural centre, Reis Magos Fort overlooks the narrowest point of the Mandovi River estuary, making it easy to…

Palácio do Deão

About 8km southeast of Chandor is the busy small town of Quepem. Here the Palácio do Deão, the renovated 18th-century palace built by the town’s founder,…

Dudhsagar Falls

Panaji & Central Goa

Situated in the far southeastern corner of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa’s most impressive waterfall splashes down just west of the border…

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Goa and beyond.

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.

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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. 🙂

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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 definitely the most 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 .

Wrapping up

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. 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.

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Insider’s Guide to Goa: The Ultimate Goa Travel Guide

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This article is an insider's travel guide to Goa, India that contains a comprehensive Goa travel guide for first-time visitors as well as returning visitors to Goa.

Goa is a phenomenal beach destination that is a crowd favourite among Indians and foreigners alike. Even though Goa is known for the buzzing beaches, cheap alcohol, raging parties, and scores of people thronging towards the beaches, this is just a tourist's perception of Goa. The real Goa is a much more laidback, serene and not to mention, hauntingly beautiful place.

Thus, having lived in Goa for over 13 years now, I've put together my insider's guide to Goa in order to show you the real Goa - one that is known to tourists and also, the other side which is known to locals. I hope you enjoy reading my comprehensive Goa travel guide.

Additionally, if you have any queries or if you think I missed out on something, feel free to drop a comment below or reach out to me via direct messaging on Instagram ( @thespicyjourney ).

Table of Contents

Insider’s Travel Guide to Goa

My insider’s travel guide to Goa contains all the information about Goa that will help you plan your entire Goa trip on your own. I understand that as a first time visitor, doing research on a particular location can get overwhelming. And so, I've put together all the information on Goa in one place for you.

This Goa travel guide has information on all the beaches, places to visit in Goa, a list of extra activities you can indulge in, references to offbeat things to do in Goa, nightlife, flea markets, and lots more. So without further ado, dive right in.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Basic Info about Goa

How many days to spend in goa, how to reach goa, best time to visit goa, goa trip cost, where to stay in goa.

• Goa Toursim Hotels

Budget Hotels in Goa

Goa beach shacks, resorts in goa, getting around goa, what to wear in goa, best places to visit in goa for sightseeing, things to do in goa - list of activities, best beaches in goa, where to eat in goa, nightlife in goa, goa flea markets, events and festivals in goa, goa travel itinerary.

• Insider's Travel Guide to Goa
• Language : Konkani is the local language of Goa. Apart from that, English is widely spoken here. Keep in mind that locals aren't well-versed in Hindi.
• ATMS : There are ample ATMs in the cities. However, finding ATMs may be difficult in the villages and in areas farther away from the main cities.
• Petrol Pumps : The situation with petrol pumps is the same as that with ATMs.
• Currency Exchange : You will find counters at the Goa International Airport and various exchange shops in the cities as well as in the tourist hot-spot areas.

The answer depends on how much of Goa you want to see. In order to explore all of Goa in-depth, you will need at least 10-14 days in Goa. However, you can cover the major sightseeing spots in Goa within 3-4 days.

My personal suggestion is that you should spend 5-7 days in Goa to get its feel and cover some of the major sightseeing spots, beaches and everything else that Goa has to offer.

Goa is the most popular beach destination in India. Thousands of tourists - local as well as foreigners arrive in Goa on a daily basis. Thus, Goa is very well connected by flights, trains and road.

Goa has one airport - the Goa International Airport which is located at Dabolim in South Goa. The Goa airport has direct flights flying between Goa and major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata, to name a few. Furthermore, the airport connects Goa to many international cities as well. Both Panjim and Margao cities are located at a distance of roughly 27 km from the Goa airport in opposite directions.

Goa has 3 main railway stations - Margao, Vasco-da-Gama and Thivim. Margao railway station in South Goa is the main hub which is connected by an extensive railway network to other parts of India. Margao or Madgaon railway station to Panaji is a distance of roughly 37 km.

One can very easily find buses to Goa from metropolitan cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad etc on the redbus website. Moreover, there are state run buses such as Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC), Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), and Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) between Goa and neighbouring states of Karnataka and Maharashtra. Alternatively, taking a road trip to Goa from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu is an option that many tourists prefer to take. The drive to Goa is scenic and there are many beautiful stops along the way.

Goa has two main seasons - the tourist season (also known as the “on” season) between October and April and the monsoon season (or the “off” season) from May to September.

The dry or the “on” season is the best time to visit Goa. This is when beach shacks are set up across most beaches in Goa, lots of events and festivals going on and the entire place is a gala feast. Plan a Goa trip during the “on” season if you want to attend events, parties and meet other travellers.

On the other hand, the monsoon season is a time when most of the Goa beaches are nearly empty and there’s very little going on. This is the time to visit Goa is you’re looking for greenery and peace and quiet.

So how much will a Goa trip cost you? The answer completely depends on how flexible your budget is.

If you’re looking to make a budget trip to Goa, then staying at hostels, eating at authentic Goan restaurants and taking local buses to get around Goa will save you a whole lot of money.

If you have a mid-range budget then you can very easily find budget and mid-range hotels in Goa. You can hire a two-wheeler instead of a cab and eat at mid-range restaurants.

On the other hand, if you're willing to splurge then you can stay at a nice resort, eat at upscale restaurants and travel around Goa in a hired cab.

Goa, being a popular backpacking destination, has many-a backpacker hostels scattered throughout the state. Most hostels in Goa are located in North Goa - near Vagator, Anjuna, Candolim and Arambol. Similarly, there are hostels at the popular beaches in South Goa as well. A bed in a dorm will typically cost between INR 400 and INR 800.

Goa Tourism Hotels

If you’re looking for hotels that provide the bare minimum comfort and amenities on a limited budget, then look into the Goa tourism hotels. There are hotels run by the state government located in Panaji, Old Goa, Calangute, Mapusa, Colva and a few other places in Goa. Book rooms at the Goa tourism hotels on the GTDC website .

Despite Goa being a popular tourist destination in India, there’s no dearth of budget hotels in Goa. You can find budget stays in every location in Goa - be it South Goa or North Goa. One way to look for budget hotels in Goa is on a site like booking.com. If not that, you can even find rooms on airbnb at low costs. Sign up to Airbnb using my referral code to get a juicy discount on your first stay.

Find hotels in Goa on Booking.com

O3 Beach Resort, Palolem Beach, Goa

The Goa beach shacks are a ubiquitous choice of stay in Goa. While beach shacks can be found at almost every beach in Goa, it’s the Palolem beach shacks that are predominantly popular in Goa. Read my comprehensive breakdown of the Palolem beach huts in my blog post on Palolem beach.

Check availability at O3 Beach Resort on Booking.com

The infinity pool at Doubletree by Hilton, Panaji, Goa

While North Goa has quite a few resorts, I highly recommend staying at a resort in South Goa. This is due to the fact that South Goa sees a fewer number of visitors as compared to North Goa which makes staying there all the more peaceful and serene. That being said, there are peaceful hotels in North Goa as well. Take Doubletree by Hilton Panaji for example (shown in the picture above). This hotel, located on the outskirts of Panjim, has sweeping views of the Goan rivers and islands as seen from the infinity pool and rooms. Moreover, the two restaurants here serve all sorts of International, Indian and Goan cuisine.

Check availability at DoubleTree by Hilton Panaji on Booking.com

Hiring a two-wheeler is the most popular and budget-friendly way to get around Goa. it’s a well-known and unfortunate fact that taxi prices in Goa are sky-high. This is the reason why renting a two-wheeler is an affordable and rather fun way to see Goa. A scooter typically costs INR 200-250 for a day whereas renting a motorbike such as Royal Enfield for a day will cost above INR 300. In case you need a taxi service at affordable rates, install the GoaMiles app to book a taxi instantly.

Unlike most of North India, you have the freedom to wear whatever you like in Goa. There are no restrictions on clothing items when it comes to choosing what to wear in Goa. While at the beaches, you can wear a bikini and shorts or short skirts, while sightseeing you can wear maxi dresses, knee-length skirts, trousers and fancy tops. Read my handy little guide on what to wear in Goa for women and girls.

1. Visit the Forts in Goa

Before the Portuguese invaded Goa in the 1500s, Goa was under the rule of the Muslim ruler Adil Shah. While Adil Shah built a number of forts for himself, after the Portuguese takeover, they modified some forts to suit their needs. Thus every fort in Goa has a rich cultural and architectural significance. Chapora Fort , Aguada Fort , Tiracol Fort, and Reis Magos Fort are the forts located in North Goa. On the other hand, Cabo de Rama Fort is a well-known fort located in the South Goa district. Each of these forts offers spectacular views of the ocean. While Chapora fort and Cabo de Rama fort don’t have any timings, since they are cliff-top ruined forts, Aguada fort and Reis Magos fort are open from the morning till 5.30 pm in the evening. Tiracol Fort, on the contrary, has been converted to the Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel . You can book a stay here to live in a palace, dine with insane ocean views and to escape the hustle-bustle of the crowds.

Check availability at Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel on Booking.com

2. Take a Ferry Boat to an Island

Divar Island near Old Goa

Most tourists coming to Goa think of it as a beach destination. While this may be true, there is lots more to do in Goa that’s beyond the beaches. There are two main islands in Goa - Divar Island and Chorao Island . Both of these islands can be reached by taking a ferry from Ribandar, which lies on the road between Panaji and Old Goa. Chorao Island is famously known for the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. You can hire a little boat, watch the mangrove, spot birds and enjoy a languid boat ride in the Goan rivers.

3. Explore Waterfalls

Dudhsagar waterfall , located on the Goa-Karnataka border is a 4-tiered, 3-streamed, 320 m high waterfall. Apart from being surrounded by a lush forest, the waterfall also contains natural pools to wade into the waters. You can reach the mighty Dudhsagar waterfalls by either completing a trek to the bottom of the walls or by going via the government-approved jeep rides that start from Molem. The waterfall has been named after its milky appearance and is a worthwhile day trip from Panjim, which is located 60 km away. Other than that, there are tons of other smaller, albeit beautiful, waterfalls scattered across Goa.

4. See the Churches

Goa was under the Portuguese rule for over 450 years from the 1500’s until 19 December 1961. Due to this reason, there are striking churches scattered all across Goa. While the Panjim church and the Old Goa church are the two famous churches in Goa, it’s the offbeat ones that steal the heart away. The Mae De Deus church and the Siolim riverside chapel are both exquisite and worth exploring!

5. Visit Old Goa

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6XRlrtDVYY/

While Old Goa may be known for the Old Goa church, there is, in fact, a lot more to do in Old Goa that only the locals know about. Whether it’s a hilltop chapel with a view of the river and islands, a hauntingly beautiful ruined church complex or a restaurant right next to the river, Old Goa has lots waiting to be discovered. You can take a half-day trip to Old Goa from Panjim, which is the closest city. Take a look at my post on all the places to visit in Old Goa to discover the hidden gems of Old Goa!

6. Go Sightseeing in Panaji

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bv_uUgmDBkh/

Panjim or Panaji is the ever-lively capital city of Goa. While one might wonder if there’s hardly anything to do in Panjim, as a matter of fact, there are lots of things to do in Panjim. Whether it’s the famous Panjim church , Dona Paula jetty , Miramar beach , the chaat street of Miramar, the colour burst region of Fontainhas , there are so many popular as well as offbeat things to do in Panjim. Read this travel guide to Panjim city  which  contains all the top places to visit in Panjim, events, festivals and lots more.

7. See Salaulim Dam

Did you know that Goa has an extremely scenic dam called the Salaulim dam hidden away? This dam is the perfect example of a duckbill spillway, is surrounded by a botanical garden where you can indulge in a picnic and is located on the river Salaulim, a tributary of the Zuari river. Panjim to Salaulim dam is a distance of 61 km while Margao to Salaulim dam is a distance of 26 km. If you’ve explored Goa many-a-times and are looking to see a different side of Goa, visit this dam and enjoy the picturesque drive along the way.

8. Explore Offbeat Goa

Lately, more and more people are inspired to explore Goa beyond the beaches. Consequently, people are driven to explore offbeat places in Goa - such as the temples, the lesser-known churches, islands, lakes etc. If you too are keen on exploring another side of Goa, take a look at this blog post on the 17 best offbeat places in Goa . 

1. Goa River Cruise

The Panjim river cruises that originate at the Santa Monica jetty in Panjim city are a great way to spend the evening cruising in the Goan rivers. The cruises usually last an hour, there are food and drink stalls present and an entertainment program which includes local dance performances. You can book tickets with various cruise companies online or book directly at the booking counters present at the jetty. Do note that it gets crowded in the evening so be prepared to wait in a queue. It’s ideal to take a cruise at 6 pm in order to catch the sunset from the boat.

2. Visit a Casino in Goa

There are lots of casinos, to indulge in a night of carefree fun, that are located in Panjim city. Most of these casinos have a package that costs approximately INR 2500 per person that includes a buffet dinner and a few complimentary chips to get you started. The ports of all the casinos of located on the main road of Panjim (DB road). You can buy your tickets right here, catch a boat to the casino and come back the same way.

3. E-Bike Tour

Want to ditch the car or motorbike and cycle around the quiet lanes of Goa? B: Live runs e-bike tours in many places all across Goa. These e-bikes are battery operated and they come with an accelerator which means that you don’t have to pedal the bicycle if you don't want to. The bikes can even go up a hill with great ease and comfort to the rider. Check out the B: Live website to choose an e-bike tour of your liking. What’s more, each tour comes with an authentic Goan experience, snacks and a tour guide who will assist you throughout the duration of the tour.

4. Heritage Walks

If you’re the one who prefers to walk around and soak in the essence of a place, then a heritage walk is the way to go for you. You can take all sorts of heritage walks which give you an authentic experience where you will learn about the history of Goa, gain an insight to the Goan culture and go back with a wealth of knowledge about Goa. Perhaps the most popular and the most loved heritage walk in Goa is the Fontainhas heritage walk . You can take a look at some of the heritage walks in the Airbnb experiences section.

5. Yacht Party

If you’re the kind of person who likes to throw lavish parties or add a magical touch to special occasions, consider renting out a yacht for a few hours. Depending on the kind of package you choose, you can get food, drink and entertainment services on board along with a wait staff. These yachts come in different budgets for all kinds of occasions ranging from birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, wedding functions to office events, social gatherings etc.

South Goa Beaches

The South Goa beaches are the laid-back beaches in Goa. As someone who has been living in Goa for over 13 years, I prefer the South Goa beaches as opposed to the North Goa beaches because of the lesser crowds and the pristine nature of the beaches. Read my guide on the South Goa beaches to explore the tranquil beaches in Goa.

North Goa Beaches

While the South Goa beaches are peaceful, the North Goa beaches are always a happening place to be at. Whether it’s a taste of the hippie culture, the best beach shacks, karaoke bars and beach clubs, you’ll find it all at the North Goa beaches. Take a look at some of my personal favourites as well as the crowd favourite North Goa beaches:

1. Arambol Beach

Did you know that Goa was a raging hippie paradise back in the ’70s? The first hippies arrived in Goa in the 1970s and settled onto the North Goa beaches of Arambol, Vagator and Anjuna. While Vagator and Anjuna are more commercialised tourist beaches, Arambol still retains the hippie spirit. Whether it’s vegan cafes, yoga centres, hippie stuff (you know what I mean), you’ll find Arambol to be the perfect hippie paradise even today. While you’re at Arambol, do not miss other great nearby beaches of Ashwem, Mandrem and Morjim, which are less popular but equally beautiful.

Read my complete travel guide to Arambol Beach, North Goa (opens in new tab).

2. Vagator Beach

In case you’re looking for a beach that has a hippie touch yet commercialised to the extent that you’ll find nice places to stay and good restaurants and cafes nearby, Vagator should be the beach of your choice. Vagator is a bustling area that’s known for the very famous Chapora fort aka the Dil Chahta Hai fort. You’ll find lots of hotels, hostels, upscale restaurants, cafes, shops and everything else in close proximity to the beach.

3. Anjuna Beach

Anjuna beach is yet another one of the North Goa beaches that’s on the way to becoming highly commercialised (read: Baga beach). Anjuna has some of the best restaurants and cafes in all of Goa. You can easily spend a whole day in Anjuna just eating at the beachside restaurants or exploring cafes nested in the tiny lanes of Anjuna.

My insider’s guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t touch upon this extremely important subject. When it comes to trying food in Goa, there’s no one list that anyone can prepare. Goa is home to so many wonderful restaurants and cafes, with new places coming up regularly that it’s hard to keep track of all the places to eat in Goa.

Nonetheless, I’ve put together 3 rough guides to Goa’s food scene. Of the three, this list of the best North Goa restaurants and cafes is perhaps the most popular of them all. Coming to Panjim city, check out this guide to the best restaurants in Panaji city . Finally, if you’re in the vicinity of the airport and need to refuel, take a look at the best restaurants near Goa airport . 

Goa has a raging nightlife that consists of nightclubs, beach clubs, karaoke bars, pubs. Pool parties, rave parties and everything else in between. There are plenty of nightclubs in the Baga-Candolim region such as LPK , Titos , etc that play Bollywood and Punjabi hits to cater to a North Indian crowd. Meanwhile, places like Favella and Soro are much classier establishments that come with a dining experience along with foot-tapping English hits. Moreover, they even have themed nights every once in a while.

Coming to Panjim city, Soho and Cafe Mojo  are the favourite pubs among the locals.

Going down south, Silent Noise in Palolem is well-known for the Saturday night parties where you dance to music while wearing headphones. In any case, you’ll find nightlife in Goa quite easily at almost every corner.

Apart from boutique stores and beach-side markets, there are quite a few flea markets in Goa. When it comes to the most popular Goa flea market, the Arpora Saturday night market tops the list. This market is held every Saturday night during the “on” season in Arpora which is located close to Anjuna and Calangute. This market has everything ranging from clothes, bags, jewellery, shoes, art and handmade artefacts. Furthermore, there are performances such as fire eaters and dancers along with live music and plenty of food stalls to choose from. Apart from this, there are lots of other markets like the Anjuna Wednesday flea market that are set-up in the tourist season.

The Goa Carnival is one of the most popular events to take place in Goa. The carnival parades are held at multiple Goan cities like Panaji, Margao, Vasco-da-Gama, and Ponda over a span of a few days late in the month of February. 

IFFI (International Film Festival of India) which is held every year in the state capital Panaji sees many movie screenings and talks attended by Bollywood as well as local celebrities. 

Coming to art festivals, Serendipity Art Festival is as big as it gets. This festival is held in the month of December at various venues in Panjim city.

While there are many events music festivals held in Goa, Sunburn , which is held late in December, is the most famous of them all that sees well-known international DJs and singers perform.

Even though this is a complete Goa travel guide to let you plan your own Goa trip, I do have a suggested itinerary for you. While I strongly suggest spending AT LEAST a week in Goa, tourists choose to spend anywhere between 2 days to months in Goa.

If you’re on a quick weekend trip to Goa, check out these places to visit in Goa in 3 days . This itinerary covers all the basics of Goa within 3 days. On the other hand, if you have more time, spend your time exploring the popular beaches and places in Goa like Arambol, Vagator, Anjuna, Panjim, Old Goa, Agonda and Palolem at the very least.

Did You Enjoy my Insider’s Guide to Goa?

If you liked reading this insider’s travel guide to Goa that I’ve put together based on my experiences of living in Goa, follow me on my social media handles  Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest , Twitter to receive quick updates and be the first one to know when I release a new blog post!

I have seen quite a bit of India but never been to Goa – looks amazing and I think I must really make a plan to go soon! Such a lovely post with such good tips 🙂

This guide is so informative- it’s great to read about Goa from someone who has lived there for so long rather than just visited. Saved for future travels 😀

Nice post!! It is really very informative content for everyone as there is many different information about the place to take decision to travel to goa with lot of memories of place which is unforgettable.

Great post and informative guide…thank you!?

Anjuna Beach is my favourite place in goa. Thanks for sharing this information to us.

Thanks for this info. I would like to add what i personally love about goa are the water sports.

Pingback: 15 amazing photos that will instantly tempt you to plan a Goa Trip! - Couple of Journeys

very useful post ,,,,these guide are very informative….thanks for sharing…

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Home » Asia » India » Goa

GOA Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Gorgeous Goa is India’s smallest state stretching along the shores of the warm Arabian Sea. It has been a jewl in the crown of Indian tourism since the 1960’s attracting hippies and sun-seekers each winter.

Goa (like all of India) is a place of celebrations and you’re bound to experience a festival or parade sometime during your stay. The wonderfully festive province of Goa will remind you that there’s always a reason to celebrate (ie, you are alive)!

Its rich cultural history and lush forests make it a wonderful place to explore and there are some great guided tours on offer. If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend your time in Goa, you’ve come to the right place because we’ve put together the ultimate Goa itinerary.

Wondering how many days in Goa you need ? You’re in the right place my friend, read on!

A Little Bit About This Goa Itinerary

Where to stay in goa in 3 days, day 1 itinerary in goa – panjim & old goa, day 2 itinerary in goa – anjuna party time, day 3 itinerary in goa – arambol, what to do with more than 3 days in goa, best time to visit goa, how to get around goa, plan a trip to goa – what to prepare, faq on goa itinerary, final thoughts.

When you talk about backpacking India , you’ll quickly hear all about Goa, which is undoubtedly one of the most laidback and beautiful places in the entire country. If you’re wondering how long to spend in Goa, a good place to start is to plan what you’d like to do and see.

Whilst Goa is India’s smallest state, it is still nevertheless a state and is as big as some small countries. This itinerary covers the entire state from North to South and with several incursions inland.  Therefore, to execute this Goa itinerary in 3 days you will need to change accommodation a few times.

The good news is that finding places to stay in Goa is pretty easy wherever you are. There are loads of guest houses, party hostels , hotels and homestays all eager for foreigners to crash – it is usually as simple as turning up in town and asking around.

The itinerary does leave time for changing accommodation and moving around and has also been designed to be flexible enough to adjust to suit your own needs. In terms of traveling around Goa, the bus system is very cheap, but rides can be long and very uncomfortable. Therefore if you have the budget, we suggest taxi’s – if you book ahead and haggle you can cover even large distances for well under $30.

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Goa 3-Day Itinerary Overview

• Goa Itinerary Day 1- Old Goa | Spice Garden | Panaji Tiatre
• Goa Itinerary Day 2 – Vagator Beach | Foot Massage | Paddle Boarding | Trance Party
• Goa itinerary Day 3 –  Querim Beach | Sweet Lake | Yoga Session | Drum Circle | Ecstatic Dance

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Let’s get this straight, Goa is a State. Whilst it is India’s smallest state it is still bigger than a lot of countries. You need to choose where to stay in Goa and decide how long to stay in Goa very carefully as it will inform your experience and will affect your Goa itinerary hugely.

Goa is roughly divided into North Goa and South Goa. North Goa has a few more famous attractions than South Goa so if you’re wanting to spend some time doing typically touristy things then North Goa is a great place to start!

Most visitors opt to stay in a beach town or village. The prime ones in the North are Anjuna & Arambol for hippies & backpackers, and Baga beach and Calangute for package tourists. In the South, Palolem Beach & Agonda and Candolim are popular. There are Airbnbs in Baga , Calangute & Candolim but very few in Arambol & Anjuna.

If you don’t want to be near the beach then there are a few nice towns and cities set further back inland, Goa Airbnb listings tend to provide a nice variety of options to choose from.

Panjim is a nice city in the Northern Goa region! It’s home to many gorgeous old Portuguese mansions and some good art galleries.

Best Hostel in Goa – Folklore Hostel

Situated in Vagator, Goa Folklore Hostel can only be described as a home away from home! With communal spaces that encourage interactions and facilities that you provide everything you need, there’s no better place to spend your stay in Goa if you’re looking for a hostel experience!

What’s more? If you don’t want to leave your furry friend at home, feel free to bring them with as the Folklore hostel is pet-friendly!

Best Airbnb in Goa – 2 Bed Lotus Villa @ Tito’s Street

This quirky and comfortable villa in Goa is located in the heart of the party district. With Bardez’s best beaches and hottest clubs within walking distance, you won’t find a better Airbnb in Goa.

Best Budget Hotel in Goa – Crystal Goa

This quaint hotel offers everything you’ve come to expect from a hotel, plus an incredibly tranquil setting! The restaurant and bar on the property are also a great place to dine during your stay in Goa. But don’t worry, should you feel like lying in and having a lazy morning, breakfast will be delivered to your door! Crystal Goa is located in Palolem in South Goa so perfect for those who prefer peace to partying.

Best Luxury Hotel in Goa – Vivanta Panaji

This incredibly beautiful luxury hotel is located right in Panjim center! But convenience is not its main drawing card.

A 24-hour gym and spa might have something to do with it! As well as the fact that the hotel is pet-friendly. This is very rare to find in such a luxurious venue! Live music is provided every night so there is no shortage of entertainment at the Vivanta Panaji!

For the first day of our 3 day Goa itinerary we are gonna base ourselves in Panjim or Panaji, the Goan state capital. Whist this city is inland, away from the lush beaches, it is one of India’s cleanest and most pleasant cities. It abounds with beautiful old colonial mansions and is well situated for executing day 1 of our itinerary.

10:00 – Old Goa

Old Goa is the former Portuguese Colonial capital. It was once considered a great city of the world rivalling even Lisbon itself I’m terms of its wealth, culture and beauty.

Most of Old Goa has been lost to the ravages of time but thankfully, enough has survived to justify a visit. The Dom Jesus Basilica is perhaps the grandest Christian temple in the whole of Asia. Then there are the ruins of the old Church of St Augustine. which blend into the Goan jungle like a level from Tomb Raider.

Old Goa can easily be explored in a day or even in half a day. The issue is getting there as it is about 20km away from the beaches. You can book a private or a bus tour from any travel agent in pretty much any resort which will leave in the morning and drop you back home after dark.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Although the building is very rustic, it’s incredibly beautiful too. A church may seem like a strange place to visit while staying in Goa, India. But because Goa was colonized by the Portuguese for so long, many Hindus converted to Catholicism over this period of time. This is one of  Goa’s best places to visit  in 3 days.

A solid option, is to join an electric bike tour so you can really explore the jungles and roads!

• Cost – Most of the sites here are free
• How Long Should I Spend Here? Half a day
• Getting There – Old Goa is about 30 minutes drive from Panjim. I recommend getting a taxi or joining a tour bus

 15:00 – Sahakari Spice Farm

At the Sahakari Spice Farm , you’ll get the chance to take in the incredible fragrance of the beautiful spice farm! These lush plantations are not all there is on offer at the spice farm though.

During your tour, you’ll be shown how to climb the trees and swing from palm to palm! If any guest on the tour is brave enough to give it a try, they’re encouraged with enthusiasm. This often creates a lot of laughs among the tour group!

For those interested in a more relaxing form of entertainment, you will be treated to a folk dance by some of the female laborers and children who live on the farm. These often contain lots of color and excitement!

• How Long Should I Spend Here? 90 minus is plenty
• Getting There – It’s a 20-minute ride from Old Goa. Get a cab.

18:00 – See a Tiatr Production

The Hanuman Theatre in Mapusa is home to some of the most incredible Tiatr! Just like Broadway there are many different types of Tiatr that take place, these all have different names and contain different entertainment elements (dancing, singing, etc.)

To be honest, it doesn’t really matter which you decide to go see, they’re all great and can be enjoyed whether you understand the words or not.

The word Tiatr comes from the Portuguese word ‘Teatro’ – meaning theatre. As you know by now, Goa is heavily influenced by the Portuguese because of its previous colonization by Portugal.

• Cost – $1.45
• How Long Should I Spend Here? 2 hours
• Getting There – Get a taxi back to Panaji and then either walk or take a Tuk-Tuk to the theatre

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

For day 2, we’re gonna head for the beaches. Pack your bag into a taxi, or jump on a bus towards Anjuna. Whether you decide to base yourself in Anjuna or Vagator is fine.

 10:00 – Relax on Little Vagator Beach

Once you’ve checked in to your new digs, hit the beach!

Although it’s free to relax on the beach, if you’d like to make use of the loungers that line the beach, you’ll have to buy something from the restaurant. This isn’t a bad deal at all, cause trust me, you’ll want to be there a while! You can have drinks and food brought to you.

While lying back on your lounger, it’ll be hard to miss the many cows that stroll past and sit on the beach alongside you. There’s nothing to be scared of though, they are very peaceful creatures!

Due to the Hindu culture in Goa, it’s illegal to kill or harm these beautiful creatures. This means that you’ll find them roaming the streets and congregating in open areas – such as the beach.

• Cost – Free – but bring money for food and drink
• How Long Should I Spend Here? A good few hours
• Getting There – Depending on where you are staying, either walk, get a cab or hire a scooter

 14:00 – Foot Massage on The Beach

After all your gallivanting around you’ll be doing during your trip, you’ll be in need of a great foot massage! Luckily for you, they offer them right on the beach – along with a variety of other treatments. So it’s about time you put your feet up and enjoyed some good ol’ relaxation!

Be sure to ask around for the best price before settling on a masseuse, some tend to charge a lot less than $6!

• Cost: Bater hard and it will by anywhere between $2 – $5

14:30 – Sea Rafting

After all that relaxing, I’m sure you’re down to try something crazy. How about a bit of sea rafting?

After about half an hour of training on the beach, you and your team will be ready to hit the waves! Don’t worry, your guide will be with you to lead you every step of the way! The waves can be a bit daunting at first, but once you’ve caught your first wave, you won’t want to stop!

Be sure to head up the beach for some beers at one of the many beach shacks that call this beach their home.

• Cost: $6.50
• How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 minutes is usually enough
• Getting There – It’s on the beach

17:00 – Dinner at Artjuna

Artjuna is one of my favourite spots in Artjuna. It is a cafe with spacious grounds where you can spend the whole day for a price of a few coffees. The food is proper decent offering a mix of Indian food, vegan grub and a few Israeli specialities.

Other excellent dinner spots include Sakana in Vagator (delicious, pricy, sushi) or you can just hit up on the beach shacks like Curries for a fish tandoori.

• Cost: $5 – $10
• How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 – 90 minutes. Service takes time in India
• Getting There – Walk, ride or jump a cab

18:00 (Onwards) – Attend a Goan Trance Party

Goan Trance (latterly Psytrance) is perhaps Goa’s greatest gift to the world and you absolutely should not miss the chance to experience a Goa Trance party first-hand. The scene emerged in and around Anjuna in the early 90’s and reached worldwide fame with “Goa parties” popping up all around the world.

The music itself, is a fast, intense and utterly trippy form of electronic dance music. If you have never heard it before, it may be a bit much for you but bear in mind that it is a sound best heard in altered states . There’s a reason Goa ranks as one of the best places in the world to party !

There are trance parties most nights during high season (Nov – Mar) but the scene is curtailed a bit during election years. My personal picks are Shiva Valley (Anjuna) on Tuesday nights and the occasional, underground parties organised by The Trip Foundation in and around Arambol. The parties start after sunset (around 18:00) and go on until well after sunrise the following morning.

Another great venue is House of Chapora (Chapora is a 10 minute aside from Anjuna). I particularly recommend following Pandora Collective who are organising 2-3 great parties each week all across North Goa – there Instagram handle is @pandoracollective.

Hilltop (Anjuna) attracts the big names but is a bit over-priced and soulless but still the Sunday afternoon sessions are nice if you want to be in bed early.

• Cost: $0 – $10
• How Long Should I Spend Here? All night!
• Getting There – Get a taxi. Walking at night in Anjuna can be risky

For day 3, we’re heading North across the river up towards Arambol. If you stayed out all night partying, either skip over the morning section of this itinerary or sack it off altogether and spend today hanging out in Anjuna’s German Bakery.

 10:30 – Ride to Querim Beach

For a taste of true paradise, you must make the 30 minute scooter ride North from Arambol towards Querim (Keri) beach. Keri is a small village set in the mangrove forests and is home to one of North Goa’s quietest beaches. You can rent a sun longer, order food and drinks from the shacks or even rent a surfboard.

As well as exploring the beach, the ride itself is also worth savouring. There is little traffic in and around Keri and plenty of back roads that lead through the forest to explore. Bring a bottle of water and sun cream and simply enjoy the experience of being in the riding seat watching beautiful Goa pass by.

• How Long Should I Spend Here? 3 hours minutes including the ride
• Getting There –  Rent a scooter and ride. Wear a helmet as the road does pass a police checkpoint.

13:00 – Fish Thali at the Thali Shack

Just by the first, main park on Arambol beach, there is a completely unassuming looking little shack (a man selling coconuts sit’s by the door). Whilst you may be tempted to walk right past, don’t; because it offers the best and possibly cheapest Thali’s in Arambol.

A Thali is a big silver tray filled with rice, veg and a few different types of curry. The options are Veg, Chicken or Fish – the latter is particularly sublime.

 14:00 – Visit the Sweet Water Lake in Arambol

The Sweet Water Lake is a freshwater lagoon with a source that originates in the Goan Jungle. The Sweet Water Lake is warmed by a natural hot spring, so going for a swim is a must in the late evening!

The Lagoon is surrounded by luscious greenery, overhanging thick jungle branches, and coconut groves. Steam rises slowly from the lagoon, making it a beautifully picturesque scene to take in, and the perfect place to snap some pics for the gram!

There is a beach just a short walk from the lagoon that is only accessible by foot. There are loads of shack’s and restaurants selling classic Goan food.

• How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 – 90 minutes
• Getting There – Walk here from Arambol beach – it is the only way!

15:00 – Join a Yoga Session

I once checked the notice board in Arambol and realised that there is a yoga class taking place somewhere in town, at every minute of the day. Arambol is a proper yoga Mecca and churns out newly qualified yoga teacher like Yale & Oxford churn out future venture capitalists and war-mongers.

Therefore you won’t have to try too hard to find a Yoga class. Either check the notice board, ask around or ask any slender, toned yogini you encounter.

17:30 – Sunset Drum Circle & Market

Every evening on Arambol beach, the place to be is the drum circle. It is literally a circle where anybody can come, bring a drum and bang it. Whilst the sound is (for me) a bit tedious, it is nevertheless a very pleasant gathering and attracts the Goa freaks who come to congregate.

From here, walk down to the sunset market where you can barter for hand made jewellery, post cards and other wares.

• Cost: $4 – $8
• Getting There – Most sessions are within walking distance from the beach

19:00 – Ecstatic Dance at The Source

Dance is a way of life in Goa. Whilst you may be exhausted from last nights trance session, I guarantee your legs will still summon the energy for one more boogie! Ecstatic Dance is a giant sober (no drugs or alcohol) party that takes place around a giant Banyan tree at the source.

You may initially need some time to get over your inhibitions (dancing sober?!) but you’ll soon get into it. Ecstatic Dance is massive fun, don’t miss it. If this is your first time in Goa, then its time to embrace your inner hippy!

• How Long Should I Spend Here? Stay as long as your energy lasts
• Getting There – Walk from the beach or get a taxi

21:00 – Late Dinner at Aladdin’s

Aladdin’s is one of Arambol’s best restaurants. It has massive menu ranging from bar-bq, Indian classics and some very interesting vegetarian dishes. It is quite pricy for Indian standards but worth it for a treat.

• How Long Should I Spend Here? Until they throw you out!
• Getting There – Walk from the Source – bring a torch though as the way is dark

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Goa

Tiswadi is the best place to stay if you’re visiting Goa for the first time. Home to the capital city, Panjim, Tiswadi is where you’ll find most of Goa’s cultural sights, the vibrant Latin Quarter, and charming Old Goa.

• Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the tomb and mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
• Explore Fontainhas, Goa’s Latin Quarter full of colonial character, cobblestone streets, and vibrant, and colourful houses.
• Be amazed at Sé Cathedral, the largest church in Asia measuring more than 76 meters long and 55 meters wide.

When deciding how long to stay in Goa, If you are planning a trip that is longer than 3 days in Goa, then here are a few things you need to add to your itinerary for the rest of your trip.

Arpora Night Market

The Saturday night market in Arpora is a true Goa institution. It is a weekly mega market where you can barter hard for incense, jewellery, stones, gods, clothes, sheets and wonderful things you probably don’t even know exist!

As well as being a shoppers delight, the market has plenty of food stalls and a few bars mixing Techno into the early hours.

All of the above said, the word on the street is that the sun is setting on the Arpora Night market. Apparently the conduct of management has forced a lot of boutique owners and niche designers away and they can now be found at the Hilltop Friday Night Market instead. The Night Markets are amongst the best things to do in Goa in 3 days.

Visit Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Near Ganjem

The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary contains a mini zoo so that children and adults alike can see the animals up close. Plus, it has a massive deer park, which means that the deer can roam freely in their natural habitat! It also contains a botanical garden and a rose garden, for those who love flowers!

Here you’ll be educated about the animals and the bird life, as well as the vegetation found in Goa! This is a trip that will intrigue nature-lovers, so be sure you don’t miss out!

• It’s only 38 kilometers from Margao.
• There is a jungle resort containing tourist cottages on the property, just in case you want to stay the night.
• There are plenty of different attractions, so you’re bound to find something that will suit your taste.

Visit Brahma Karmali Temple

The Brahma Karmali Temple is one of the oldest temples in Goa! The temple attracts a lot of devoted worshippers from around the region. Based in Carambolim, this temple is said to have played a pivotal role in Goa’s struggle for freedom. Many sessions were held in the building by a member of Congress during the time of struggle.

Learning about the fascinating history of this temple is spiritually moving, and exploring the temple grounds is a wonderfully relaxing experience!

• This temple is named after a nearby town – Brahma Karmali.
• The main idol inside the temple is said to date back to the 12th century.
• Visiting and exploring this temple is absolutely free.

Hike to Hivre Waterfall

This waterfall is a great place to visit for nature-lovers and adventure junkies alike! During the hike to the waterfall, you will walk along a narrow pathway through the forest. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful river creeks that wind their way through the forest.

The locals that visit the waterfall are always friendly and helpful, and don’t mind guiding tourists to the waterfall with them!

• Hivre Waterfall is popular amongst locals and tourists alike so it’s often busy, especially on weekends.
• The waterfall is located only 14 kilometers from Valpoi City.
• You will need to travel through the Thane village to get to the Hivre falls!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Goa is definitely a seasonal destination and best experienced during the Northern hemispheres winter. The crowds flock to Goa between November and February when the weather is perfect. If you come off-season, not much may be happening. The high summer months are best avoided altogether as this is when monsoon hits.

During peak tourist season in Goa, the beaches are the place to be! The water is perfect, there are nightly parties, and it never rains. As the monsoon season in Goa approaches though, the beaches become more and more empty.

However if you’re not a beach bum, then the rainy season can be equally as beautiful! During the summer in Goa, mist rises over the plantations and fields, and rain cleans the cities, leaving them smelling fresh and new. Visiting India during June will also allow you to attend the Sao Joao Festival, which is one of the coolest celebrations in Goa .

There are a number of Goa transport options available depending on where in Goa you are, where you are going and what you want to do. For example, beach towns and cities themselves are pretty easy to walk around. However, to get between them you will need an engine. Tuk-Tuk’s (Rickshaws) are available in some parts of Goa but are banned from a lot of the Northern tourist hubs. Taxi’s are easy to find but Goa’s are expensive by Indian standards.

Renting a scooter is the most popular transport method. They can be rented anywhere in Goa easily and cheaply.

Hiring a tour guide with a vehicle is also a good idea for tackling some of the suggestions on this itinerary.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with your posse, there’ll be plenty of activities to keep you occupied on your trip to Goa! Here’s just a few that you shouldn’t miss out on!

Travel in India does carry with it a set of risks and Goa is no exception.

The biggest danger is the endless raft of scams which are played on unsuspecting foreigners and of which there are too many to list. Other than this, never leave your valuables unattended and always lock your room.

Be very careful of bad drivers whether you are riding a scooter or simply a pedestrian. If you are riding a scooter, always wear a helmet.

Be careful when swimming whether in the sea or the delta as under-currents can be deadly, especially at night. Use lots of sunscreen and drink plenty of bottled, mineral water. Food hygiene is generally pretty good in Goa but use common sense.

Women travellers sadly need to be extra careful as each year they are the victims of rape, assault and even murders in Goa. Take great care at night and try to travel in a group whenever possible. Avoid dark, unlit areas as much as possible. If you are riding your bike at night, do not stop in lonely areas ( you may be being followed ). Be very careful in or around Trance parties, be mindful of what you consume and watch your drinks like a hawk.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Goa

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning how long to spend in Goa.

How many days Goa do you need?

Despite being India’s smallest state, Goa is packed with incredible experiences and attractions. We recommend visiting for 3-5 days minimum to make the most of it.

What should you include on a Goa 5 day itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these awesome places to visit in Goa: – Old Goa – Sahakari Spice Farm – Braganza House – Sunset Drum Circle & Market

When is the best time to visit Goa?

November-February offer the best weather for exploring Goa. March and April also get warm and have smaller tourist crowds.

Is Goa worth visiting?

Absolutely. From the verdant forests and stunning shorelines to the vibrant food and buzzing festivals, Goa is a very popular destination among travellers.

Goa is the perfect place for your next holiday destination! With white sandy beaches, a rich cultural history and some great architectural beauties, there isn’t a single thing you could possibly miss out on!

Its beautiful landscapes are begging to be explored and the culture that surrounds every building in Goa is worth learning about! No matter what time of year you choose to visit, there will always be something going on in this province. From festivals and parades to cultural ceremonies, there’s never a dull moment in Goa!

It’s a great place to travel whether you’re with your crew or a solo traveler. The safety of this beautiful province adds to the appeal of Goa for solo travelers. Be sure you’re not the only one missing out on the amazing experience of visiting Goa, India! And be sure to add a few of these great activities to your Goa Itinerary!

Suzanne Borders

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I’m confused – you have this article but also this warning people away from Goa? https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/is-goa-still-worth-visiting/

Where is the Braganza mansion (that you have mentioned close to Arambol). All search results only point to Menezes Braganza mansion in Chandor, South Goa.

Yes you are right. The Braganza mansion is in South Goa which is nowhere near Arambol at all. The writer who created this piece clearly had a moment of confusion. We have rectified the copy.

The typical mindset of western people. “watch your drinks like a hawk” hahaha! I hope you share some positivity also. Please teach your countrymen about Indian hospitality which is sorely missing in your country. I would love to read a blog about the USA itinerary mentioning “watch out for f…ing racists”

Personally I absolutely love Goa (Psytrance!!!!), have spent several months there and cannot wait to visit again. However, the FACT is that Goa can be very dangerous for women and there is no point in denying this – it doesn’t help anybody.

FYI – I am not from the US so cannot comment on American hospitality.

Good work on the blog, very helpful 🙂

This makes me want to rush to goa right now. Amazing blog

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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 .

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My kerala backwater houseboat experience: my review & tips, attending the mystical mopin festival in aalo, arunachal pradesh, things to do in agra – more than just the taj mahal.

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!

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• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 Culture
• 4.2 Arts & culture
• 4.3 Goa's links with Portugal
• 4.4 Public holidays
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.3 By train
• 6.5 By ferry
• 7.1 By motorbike
• 7.4 By taxi
• 8.1 Art & culture
• 8.2 Beaches
• 8.3 Wildlife sanctuaries and others
• 9.1 Volunteering
• 10.1 Handicrafts
• 12.2 Wine and other products
• 15.1 Phones
• 15.2 Internet
• 16.1 Emergency services

Goa ( Konkani : गोंय / Gõy), a state on India 's West coast, is a former Portuguese colony with a rich history. Spread over 3,700 km² with a population of approximately 1.4 million, Goa is small by Indian standards. It has a unique mix of Indian and Portuguese cultures and architecture that attracts an estimated 2.5 million visitors each year (including about 400,000 foreign tourists).

Goa is blessed with waterfalls (Dudhsagar, Amboli, Mangeli, Dodamarg) and ghats. Since the 1960s, Goa has been attracting a steady flow of visitors: first the hippies and returning expatriate Goans, then the charter tourists (starting with the Germans in 1987), pilgrims visiting Catholic and Hindu shrines, those opting to settle in Goa as their home, people going for medical treatment, and a growing number who attend seminars and conferences in Goa.

By Indian standards, Goa is a very small state with only two districts - North and South Goa. These districts are together further divided into 12 talukas. These divisions, however, don't make much sense for a traveller. North and South Goa are similar, and each has its own "coastal" and "interior" areas. The major division in Goa is between the central coastal areas where the beaches are, and the hinterland. The coastal areas were under colonial rule for longer, reflecting more of Portugal's influence, including having a relatively large Catholic population. The interior is more Hindu, and has more protected forest areas, mining zones and villages.

• 15.49093 73.82785 1 NOT EXISTING LISTING IMAGE Panaji — also called Panjim, and known as Nova Goa during Portuguese rule – the state capital.
• 15.6 73.82 2 Mapusa — the town is in North Goa and around 13 km from Panji. Mapusa is one of the important market centres in Goa
• 15.28322 73.98619 3 Margao — second largest city, commercial and cultural capital of Goa
• 15.50277 73.91541 4 Old Goa — it is home of 16th-century churches, convents and monuments
• 15.38603 73.84404 5 Vasco da Gama — a populous town in the south Goa district of Marmagoa Taluka

Goa also has other smaller, charming and sometimes crowded towns such as those along the beach belt ( Calangute , Candolim ), and in the interior (Chaudi in Canacona, Sanvordem-Quepem, Bicholim, Pernem town, etc.) Some of these are gateways to the nearby touristic areas. In addition, Goa has nearly 350 villages, often scenic, with each having its own character.

Other destinations

• 15.34481 73.9959 1 The Garça Branca Ayurvedic Botanical Garden , Loutolim —
• 15.3248 74.02098 2 Karai Garden , Shiroda —

Goa was a colony of Portugal from 1510 to 1961, when the Indian army was sent in to take it back. This annexation is referred to as the Liberation of Goa in India, and the Invasion of Goa in Portugal.

Goa's heart is in its villages. Prominent Goan architect Gerard Da Cunha has argued elsewhere that, unlike others, Goans don't live in the cities. They mostly live in the villages and they travel to work.

Not surprisingly, it's the villages of Goa which hold both charm and character. Living in Goa can be tough and slow, but holidaying there is just fine. Take an aimless ride on a relaxed evening or a languid morning, and surprise yourself with the charms of the Goan village.

Unlike urban areas, the villages tend to be neat and clean, friendly and even good value-for-money, except maybe in those areas where there are a lot of tourists already.

Goa has many different faces. The coast varies from the "hinterland". Some villages such as Assolna, Benaulim, Britona, Cortalim, Curtorim, Raia, Goa Velha, Mollem, Usgao, Reis Magos, Savoi Verem and Shiroda may offer something more unusual, but this list is far from complete. Villages such as these are often close to the places where most tourists stay, so a quest for accommodation is not likely to be a problem.

Goa is visibly different from the rest of India, owing to Portuguese rule which isolated it from the rest of India for 451 years. The Goan population is a mixture of Hindus and Roman Catholics, the distribution being approximately 65% Hindu and 24% Christian. There is also a smaller Muslim population. Despite this, communal violence has been virtually non-existent and Goa is regarded as one of the most peaceful states in India.

Goa's staple diet is fish, curry and rice.

Goan culture has been shaped mainly by the Hindu and Catholic population. People are mostly easy going ('sossegado' in Portuguese). With better connectivity by air and rail, there has been an influx of people from neighbouring states that has brought with it different cultures. Many Indians from other states have come and settled here.

Goan Catholics generally acknowledge their Hindu roots and carry traces of a caste system within their beliefs. It is recorded that in many instances the Hindus left one son behind to convert and thus continue to own and manage the common properties while the rest of the family preferred to emigrate to neighbouring areas along with the idols representing their Hindu deities.

Over the years large numbers of Catholics have emigrated to the major commercial cities of Bombay and Pune and from there onward to East Africa (to the then-Portuguese colonies of Angola and Mozambique), to Portugal, and towards the end of the 20th century to Canada and Australia. Many old Goan ancestral properties therefore lie either abandoned or mired in legal tangles brought about by disagreements within the widely dispersed inheritors of the property. Expat Goans have been returning to their home state, often purchasing holiday homes along the coast (which are then converted into 'rent back' apartments, hired out to short-staying tourists by agents).

The best time of the year to visit Goa is mid-November to mid-February when the weather is comfortable, dry and pleasant.

Arts & culture

Goa has a more than its fair share of museums, art galleries and libraries. You will find many government run museums in Panaji , including the Goa State museum, the Kala Academy, the Central Library and the Goa Science Centre. In Vasco da Gama , you can find the Naval Aviation Museum, a great place to see vintage aircraft.

Old Goa is a great place to see examples of Christian religious art , and sometimes, secular art. There you can find the Christian Art Museum and also a modern art gallery containing the works of surrealist Dom Martin. In Mormugao , you can find the Religious Museum of the Blessed Joseph Vaz. The Xavier Centre of Historical Research at Bardez also has a gallery on Christian Art.

Attracted by Goa's bohemian life, many artists, painters and architects have made their home here. They too have proceeded to set up art galleries and museums. An example of this is Subodh Kerkar's art gallery in Candolim . Benaulim also has the Goa Chitra Museum , containing the largest collection of ethnographic artifacts ever assembled in one place.

Goa has become India's creative hub, attracting contemporary artists, designers and creative coders and engineers. In this context, India's first Museum for Technology and Art, called Sensistan , chose Goa as its location. This museum features new media, light and sound installations, Virtual Reality applications and unique space design across 700 m² indoors and 1000 m² outdoors. This digital playground for all ages is located in Badem, Assagao, between Vagator and Chapora .

Other museums of note are Gerard da Cunha's architectural museum Houses of Goa in Benaulim , Big Foot(aka Ancestral Goa) at Loutolim, Salcette , an attempt to illustrate and recreate Goa's traditional past. There's even a vintage-cars collection of sorts -- Ashvek Vintage World, in Nuvem, Salcette

Goa's links with Portugal

Apart from the consulates there are cultural organizations active in Goa, with the Portuguese again being most active.

Fundação Oriente has a large presence in Fontainhas, the Latin quarter of Panjim , and sponsors cultural events that add variety to Goa's cultural scene. However, it faced some major problems when it was first set up. Goa's uneasy parting of ways with its former Portuguese rulers, and lingering ultra-nationalism amidst a section of freedom fighters could be seen as some of the reasons. The Fundação has also been subsidizing a book-publishing plan which has helped put out more Goa-related titles in what is otherwise a small but colourful market for books dealing with a tiny region of South Asia.

Public holidays

Goa has nearly two weeks of holidays each year. Government offices have a five-day week (closed Saturday-Sunday). Panjim closes early (around 8PM) each evening, and shops here could have a fairly longish siesta break (from around 1PM till up to 3:30PM). Goan shop owners take this siesta break seriously, and no business is conducted during this time. Bars, restaurants and other shopping centers are more buyer-friendly.

Major public or special holidays are around Christmas, Republic Day, Id-ul-zuha, Gudi Padva, Good Friday, Independence Day, Ganesh Chaturthi (both days), Gandhi Jayanthi, Dussehra, Diwali, Id-ul-fitr, Feast of St Francis Xavier, Goa Liberation Day, Mahashivratri, Holi and Id-e-milad. Banks may remain open during local religious celebrations.

Expect a huge influx of tourists and locals residing in other states during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and the Carnival, which is celebrated just before the beginning of Lent in the Christian calendar. It is advised to make bookings for trains, buses and flights well in advance if you intend on visiting the state during these times.

Goa remains green and beautiful because there are restrictions on buildings in green areas. Residential properties are crowded into marked zones and the green zone is always left undisturbed.

• Goa Freaks: My Hippie Years in India by Cleo Odzer (1995). Cleo Odzer writes about her hippie years in Goa and her experiences.
• The Goa Inquisition by Anant Priolkar. This book by Anant Priolkar provides a very comprehensive account of the Goa Inquisition, an important period in the history of Goa. Bombay University Press. ISBN 978-0-8364-2753-0

Goa's state language is Konkani . Most Goans speak Konkani, English, Hindi , and Marathi . Portuguese is also known by a small segment, especially the elite and earlier privileged class or the older generation which studied in pre-1961 Portuguese-ruled Goa.

Different languages tend to be used for different purposes in Goa. Konkani is the most widely spoken. English and Marathi tend to be most widely read. Most newspapers are also published in these two languages.

Catholics largely use Konkani for their prayer services, while the language for religion for Hindus in the state is largely Marathi. The administration is largely conducted in English, which is also the language of publication of the official gazette and the language mainly used in the courts.

It can be rather difficult to learn Konkani. The language is written in four to five scripts, in and beyond Goa: Devanagari (the official script), Roman or Romi (widely used in Goa), Kannada-script, Malayalam-script and Perso-Arabic, reportedly used by some Muslim communities further south along the Indian west coast. Books to learn Konkani in the Roman script have also been published, making it easier for those not knowing the Devanagari script (used to write Hindi, Marathi and other languages) that is the officially-recognized script for Konkani in Goa.

Goa can be reached by two airports, by train, and by the many buses connecting the state with cities in India (primarily Mumbai, Mangalore and Bangalore). If you are travelling from Mumbai or Pune, car travel will provide you a journey through breathtaking scenery of the Konkan area.

Flights can be chartered to the United Kingdom , Germany , Russia and Switzerland .

Many domestic airlines have daily flights to and from Bangalore , Delhi , Hyderabad , Mumbai , Pune , Chennai , Jaipur , Ahmedabad and Kozhikode (Calicut).

On arrival, take pre-paid taxis from Dabolim Airport. A yellow pre-paid taxi booth can be found 30 m on the left when you exit the main building. There is also a pre-paid taxi stand in the international arrival area. Rates are slightly cheaper than the yellow cabs.

Many resorts pick up guests from the airport for free, so make sure you ask your resort for free pick-up.

There are bus routes from various cities, but most traffic is from Mumbai and Pune . Due to increasing demand from the south, there has been an increase in buses and trains from Mangalore and Bangalore . Overnight buses from Mumbai to Goa are an alternative to trains and flying. Book in advance during the crowded seasons (particularly during the Christmas-New Year rush, for Carnival, or when other Indian regions have school holidays when families travel).

Kadamba Transport Corporation is the Goa state-run transport service. Its buses have seen better days, and more efficient times. There are also other state-run buses run by the governments of Karnataka (some services are efficient, specially the Volvo buses), Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. Many private players also offer bus connections to other cities, with varying levels of discounts and efficiency, with the two usually being inversely related.

Some of the more efficient private operators with well timed , well connected and clean services is VRL (Vijayanand Road Lines) based from Karanataka. They have a well connected and systematic service for passenger and cargo along the Konkan coastal belt and between the Western-Eastern-Southern states of India. Book online on their well maintained website VRL Travels Online booking [dead link]

The main centre for booking train and bus tickets, in Panjim, is around the Kadamba inter-state bus terminus. Tickets for the Konkan Railway can also be booked here, though expect long queues during the holiday season (which in India, can also coincide with the timings when children have a school break).

Indian Railways connects Goa with direct train services from Delhi , Mumbai , Ahmedabad , Mangalore , Kochi , Kolkata , Thiruvananthapuram , Bangalore , Chennai and Hyderabad . The destination station is usually Madgaon in South Goa. Travelling to Goa by train is a real pleasure as the route passes through greenery and many tunnels. Goa is also connected to Pune via the Belgaum Miraj line.

A railway station some tourists tend to miss is Thivim, which is served by most trains and is 20 minutes away from Calangute beach by taxi. For budget travellers, this is the cheapest option, along with being faster and much more comfortable than travelling by road. It is advisable for tourists to make reservations well in advance as the major trains such as; Konkan Kanya and the Nethravati Express are usually heavily booked.

Trains from Mumbai and most other places have a quota of seats set aside for tourists. Quota tickets must be purchased in person at the rail station by the tourist and cannot be booked via a travel agent. Quota tickets are only sold at the station of origin. Tickets can be booked online [dead link] .

Unless travelling on a shoestring budget, it is advisable to travel in air-conditioned sleeper coaches. These are quieter and much more comfortable. Each bunk is provided with two freshly laundered sheets, a blanket, and a pillow. You can also have a hand towel on request.

Most travel agents will book tickets for a small fee (₹200), but trains do get busy and you need to book in advance. Do not leave booking your ticket to the last moment as you may be disappointed. It is convenient to book online on IRCTC site , reservations open up four months in advance.

Travelling by train can be quite an experience as you are more likely to interact with Indians visiting Goa from different parts of the country, under more relaxed conditions.

See also Rail travel in India

Occasional cruise services used to sail from Mumbai to Goa, but these were discontinued because of security concerns and unpredictable weather and are unlikely to resume.

High resolution maps are not available for Goa. For example, some popular isles are not shown in many maps.

Parts of Goa lack sign boards, so finding your way around could be challenging. When in doubt just ask; usually people are friendly and helpful, but don't expect accurate answers (a so-called 'five-minute drive' could take twenty minutes).

When driving, expect surprises like domestic animals and little children darting across the road, unmarked speed breakers and speed bumps.

By motorbike

There is a choice of manual and automatic gearbox motorbikes and scooters to be rented (typically without helmets). Those planning to stay long may consider buying one instead. Rentals are around ₹350 a day (₹400 in non-peak season) for a Honda Activa scooter and a little more if one is looking for a geared motorcycle. Many small roadside shops sell petrol at ₹105 per litre as of early May 2022, while the going rate at a station (these are hard to locate in the coastal areas) would maybe be a little more than ₹105 per litre.

For the motorbikes, always ask for a discount if renting long-term (one month or more). You should not have to pay more than ₹100 per day. Ensure that you have all the ownership documents of the bike. Also, avoid taking motorbikes with yellow plates out of Goa, as it is a punishable offence. Hiring a bike with white plates is acceptable for local travel in the immediate vicinity but if you want to travel further afield then always rent a bike with yellow plates.

Wearing a crash helmet is compulsory when you go on any major roads (there is a ₹100 fine for not wearing one). Foreigners will need an International Driving Permit (Convention 1949); this is the first thing police will ask you for if stopped. You should also carry your normal driving licence with you.

Travelling by bus in Goa is extremely convenient as the road network easily connects all the places in Goa with roads. State Transport Corporation and private buses are available which serve transport services in major locations.

Despite the off-schedule service, noise and overcrowding, there is some unique charm in travelling by private buses which are designed with colourful local characters.

Buses are inexpensive and fares are often around ₹4-6. ₹10-15 for a 30-40 km ride.

There are many car hire companies available, both for self-driving and cars with driver, and online taxi bookings are also available throughout Goa. As of early May 2022, rentals cost around ₹2,200 a day for Innova and around ₹3,500 for Tempo traveler, ₹4,500 for Camry, and a little more for others.

In Goa you will easily get taxi services outside of a hotel or can book online taxi booking. There is no taxi service from companies like Ola or Uber, but the ride sharing app Goa Miles is available for booking local taxis on iOS and Android.

Art & culture

Goa has more than its fair share of museums, art galleries and libraries. You will find many government run museums in Panaji , including the Goa State museum, the Kala Academy, the Central Library and the Goa Science Centre. In Vasco da Gama , you can find the Naval Aviation Museum, a great place to see vintage aircraft.

Other museums of note are Gerard da Cunha's architectural museum Houses of Goa in Benaulim , Big Foot(aka Ancestral Goa) at Loutolim, Salcete , an attempt to illustrate and recreate Goa's traditional past. There's even a vintage-cars collection of sorts -- Ashvek Vintage World, in Nuvem, Salcete The Latin Quarter of Panjim or Fontain has many heritage buildings, some preserved in their original condition.

Goa is famous for its beaches, ancient temples and churches, and the Goan carnival.

• Agonda — also known as Turtle Beach , in the south.
• Anjuna beach — close to the Chapora Fort, its key attraction is a magnificent Albuquerque Mansion built in 1920, flanked by octagonal towers and an attractive Mangalore tile-roof. Anjuna was the second home (and main location) of the hippies in Goa in the 1960s and 1970s, after other destinations like Calangute got too "crowded" for them. It is still the venue of a (vastly-changed and more mainstream) flea market held each Wednesday. In the nearby village of Arpora, two colourful Saturday night bazaars are held in the non-monsoon seasons. This is still part of "alternative" Goa, though charter and other tourists also visit in increasing numbers to "get a feel of the hippy years".
• Arambol beach — a quiet beach in North Goa near Pernem. Not too many facilities in terms of hotels or eateries. The water is shallow and good for swimming.
• Asvem beach — quieter beach in extreme north Goa's Pernem Taluka.
• Baga beach — family beach and charter tourist destination just outside Calangute.
• Benaulim beach
• Calangute beach — queen of all Beaches in Goa. Once highly rated. Now crowded. Expect traffic jams along the main crowded street. This beach is full of Indian tourists, provides a lot of noise, a lot of souvenirs, and some water sports beggars. You won't get peace here, but it does have many famous clubs, and some nice dining options.
• Candolim and Sinquerim — beaches in North Goa's Bardez taluka. Once humble fishing villages. Now the crowded concretised coast of North Goa. Goa's Benidorm. Or quickly getting to be as crowded.
• Chapora — home of the Chapora fort. Close to Vagator and Anjuna beaches. Also site for a fishing jetty where trawlers (introduced into Goa in the 1960s and 1970s, amid protests from traditional fishermen, who were affected by them) bring in their catch. Dil Chahta Hai Movie's one song was shot at this fort. Although in pretty damaged state, Chapora fort offers mesmerising views of sea and both beaches. It's a bit difficult to find the way to the fort, but bikers won't mind it. Built on a hill top, fort offers some resistance for climbing up.
• Colva beach — known for its scenic beauty. This is part of Salcete, Goa's only Catholic majority sub-district. Once a very hospitable area, now relations are getting monetised thanks to tourism. Salcete's beach stretch starts with Velsao beach and ends at Betul which is where the Leela and Holiday Inn hotels are. The other popular beaches on this stretch are Utorda, Majorda, Arrosim, Benaulim and Varca. The Southern beaches are beautiful, quieter and have a lesser number of shacks. It is easier to enjoy the natural scenic beauty of the Goa here versus the beaches in the Northern part of the state that are more commercialized. The southern beaches are more family geared and generally cleaner and more beautiful.
• Mandrem beach — in the extreme north Goa's Pernem Taluka.
• Morjim beach — a beautiful beach, inhabited by Russian tourists. This place is popular among kitesurfers due to the shallow depth of the sea and a very wide beach. Prices are high, with many restaurants offering Russian cuisine. Nightlife is vibrant here.
• Palolem beach — southernmost beach in Goa, situated in Canacona taluka. Scenic and quiet with nearby islands. Good eating options. It is becoming pricey (by local standards) and getting a bit crowded, but still less crowded compared to other popular beaches.
• Patnem beach — small and quiet beach in Canacona Taluka.
• Vagator beach — in Bardez, neighbouring Anjuna. Frequented by Western backpackers and home to raves.

Wildlife sanctuaries and others

There are several wildlife sanctuaries in the region. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in Sanguem is one of the largest protected wildlife regions in Goa. The Dudh Sagar Waterfall also in Sanguem measures 600 m from top to bottom.

The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in Ponda is home to sambar, gaur (Indian bison) and wild boar, amongst other animals. Elephants have also been spotted here at times. The Butterfly Conservatory of Goa also in Ponda has butterflies and a unique rain water harvesting experiment.

The Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary in Canacona is a forest with rare plants and tall tree where hardly any light can reach to the ground. The Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in Panaji requires permission from Chief Wildlife Warden.

• Carnival . Held in mid-February, just before Lent, the four-day event features lively processions, floats, the strumming of guitars, graceful dances and non-stop festivity.
• Diving — the season is between mid-October to mid-May. Diving is not possible during the monsoons in India (June till mid-October). The water temperature is 27-30⁰ C. The local diving consists of dive sites around Grande Island, just off the coast near Vasco da Gama. The dive sites are mostly 12-16 m deep, and visibility varies through the season with an average of around 5-6 m. Marine life is abundant, with many species of reef fish, hard and soft coral, and several shipwrecks to dive. Several dive centres conduct PADI courses and organize dive trips to Pigeon Island (also known locally as Netrani Island) in the neighbouring state of Karnataka.
• Jet-ski — with banana ride, bumper ride and parasailing. Head to Anjuna /Baga / Calangute beach during daytime and you will find many small groups of vendors offering these. If in a small group, with adequate bargaining and luck, you can bargain to around ₹1,000 - 1500 (season) and a little lesser in the off-season for a 1 short round jet-ski ride, 5-min banana ride, 5-min bumper ride and a 1 min para-sailing session per person. These activities are also available on less popular beaches and you could get a bargain there as compared to popular beaches where demand exceeds supply.
• Kitesurfing — not the best place in the world to try kite surfing, but it still has something to offer. Check Morjim, Arambol and Aswem beaches in North Goa. You can find instructors in Morjim, that take ₹8,000-12,000 for beginners course. The season starts in January, you can expect 1-2 windy days a week during January and February, and 2-3 days a week during March. Most people use 10-14 m² kites. Water is choppy most of the time, don't expect wave riding.
• Bungee Jumping &mdash at Mayem lake.
• Paragliding — check Arambol beach in North Goa for tandem paragliders.
• Relax at the beaches — Goa has an almost unbroken 70 km coastline of beaches. Don't forget to carry suntan, towels and chappals along when hitting the beach. Beachbeds can be hired for ₹100 per hour, you should get the beach bed for free if you are ordering snacks from the shack.
• Trekking and camping — October to December is the perfect time to go trekking in Goa. The Goa Hiking Association in Panaji organizes a major trekking program in October each year. The Goa Branch of the Youth Hostel Association of India also runs Trekking expeditions and Family camping trips in Goa every December. Some recommended places to trek and hike include the Sahyadri Hills, Devils Canyon and the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in Mollem, the Chandrasurya Temple in Netravali (2 hr south of Panaji), and the Kuveshi Falls to Castle Rock just over the border in Karnataka state.

Volunteering

• Volunteering Goa , based in Porvorim ( on the main Panjim-Mapusa highway (NH17) ), ☏ +91 860 5458574 , [email protected] . You can experience the real Goa while helping in projects in orphanages, nature centres, animal rescue and charity shops.  

Goan handicrafts are under-appreciated and can be a real bargain. Their range includes carved furniture, brassware, crochet and more (see section on the government-run Aparant emporia).

Global items come in amazing diversity specially at the night markets of North Goa. In Panjim, the 18th June Rd is faster emerging as a lure for shoppers and tourists. Mapusa, while hosting a traditional market each Friday, attracts a number of tourists, specially foreigners. Goa's talented goldsmiths are neatly lined up at Mapusa's market, and in parts of Margao and Panjim. Check out traditional Goan lacquer-ware toys' ( available at the Aparant emporia ). There is a flea market at Anjuna.

Health tourism , foreign tourists come here for medical services. There are a number of outlets that offer a form of 'health tourism'. These include centres like Dr Pimenta's Dental Practice at Romano Chambers (near the Old Petrol Pump in Calangute) and Lake Plaza near Nehru Stadium in Margao.

Handicrafts

The Aparant network of outlets are managed by the State-run Goa Handicrafts network. In their 10 outlets across Goa you may find an interesting range of handicrafts from Goa. Items range include shell-work, ceramic, bamboo, paper mache, coconut-items and fibre. If visitors have a problem with carrying back some the (more fragile) handicrafts home, then fibre is a good choice. Four outlets are in Panjim, at Vasco da Gama, ( on Swatantra Path, at the Vasco Residency ) and at the local GTDC-run "residency" hotels in Margay, Mapusa, Calangute, the Bicholim Pottery Production Centre at the Industrial Estate, and at Loutolim's Big Foot.

In Panjim, the other outlets of Aparant are at the Udyog Bhavan, ( opposite the Goa Police Headquarter, near the Ferry Jetty ); at the main Kadamba bus-terminus; and at the Crafts Complex office of the Goa Handicrafts in Neugi Nagar, ( Rua de Ourem ). The largest number of items are available at the last location, about 2.5 km from the centre of town.

Products of dry coconuts and coconut-shells are carved and often designed to fit on a wooden base. Items produced include table lamps, flower pots, table clocks, different religious statues and decorative items.

Crochet items of beautiful designs and shapes. Likewise, sea-shells that were once discarded by the beach get transformed by artisans. Traditional ceramics include pots, ash-trays, flower pots andimages of gods. Same for the case of bamboo products.

A few of these items are produced in-house at the Goa Handicrafts' centre in Bicholim. Others come from artisans across the state. This network has done a fair job in highlighting the skills of geographically scattered local artisans, and also finding them the market to help sustain their talents.

Hand-painted ceramics , Goa has its own unique product.

Furniture , is another area of interest, in terms of shopping options. Despite its bulky nature antiques are also a growing business.

The Goan staple diet consists of rice and fish curry along with pickles and fried fish. This can be found on many of the beach shacks. The Goan cuisine is a blend of Portuguese and local flavours. Many dishes such as prawn balchao and kingfish in garlic have distinct Portuguese flavour. The cuisine is mostly seafood based, the staple foods are rice and fish. Kingfish (vison or visvan) is the most common delicacy, others include pomfret, shark, tuna and mackerel. Among the shellfish are crabs, prawns, tiger prawns, lobster, squid and mussels.

Dishes such as vindaloo, dopiaza, xacuti (pronounced "chacuti") and cafreal will be familiar from Indian restaurant menus abroad, and are typical Goan dishes. Bebinca is a traditional Goan layered pudding which can be found "home made" at certain hotels.

Most beaches have shacks that serve surprisingly delicious meals, especially seafood. They will usually consult you to see how you like your food. Don't miss the shack eating experience. Most fancy hotels and restaurants serve terrible food, it is best to eat at local places; ask a taxi driver where these would be and don't let him take you to any fancy restaurants as they receive commission.

For a destination which tends to be costlier -- in almost everything -- than the rest of India, Goa has liquors and wines that are priced noticeably low. Products available range from wine (red and white), to the oddly-named Indian-made foreign liquors (IMFLs, which include whisky, brandy, rum, gin, vodka and more), and local liquors (basically cashew and coconut feni). Prices of domestic products range from ₹40 to ₹350 per bottle.

There are two local brews long made and drunk in Goa: cashew feni and coconut feni. One comes from the cashew apple, and the other from the sap of the coconut tree.

Feni-brewing skills have been honed by Goa's former Portuguese rulers. The cashew was brought in by the Portuguese, and today it is integral to Goan society and the economy. Cashew-apples go to waste in neighbouring states, so they are imported from nearby Maharashtra into Goa.

Feni has come to become synonymous with Goa. Cashew Feni has been accorded protection as a Geographical Indication so it can be made only in Goa.

Feni has a strong taste, and some like it but some don't. At one of the liquor outlets in Panjim, you can run into bus-loads of tourists picking up souvenirs of feni.

Wine and other products

Of course, there are a range of other options too. Local wines are priced at between ₹40-150 per bottle. Goa hosts the "Grape Escape", a festival of wines, around the start of each year, often held in mid-February.

Do try Urrak. It's a local drink with smoky flavour. Ask for it at local bars. It's a summer drink, with a refreshing taste and light alcohol.

In terms of local products, Madame Rosa has also been diversifying into coffee and other liqueur. Flavours include mango, anise, almond and chocolate mint. PVV (Pedro Vincent Vaz), another prominent brand, comes out with its cashew and palm products (in sizes of 750 ml, 180 ml and 60 ml). Other brands have names like Dom Pedro, Goan Treasure, Cashew Inside, Fruit Shape, among others.

Goa is one of the more expensive states in India to stay in. During the peak season, which lasts from November to late March, the prices are very high. Especially in December, 5-star hotel rates range from around ₹20,000—35,000 per night. All tourist spots charge more in the peak season.

Huts/shacks are an economical and fun option to consider. These can be found along most of the beaches, prices range from ₹400-600 and you get a whole hut with a double bed, lock, towels and an attached bathroom with toilet. Beach huts are closed during the monsoon.

The last week of the year, between Christmas and New Year the place is usually completely packed. Try to avoid that overhyped week and you will get a better deal without the added pressures.

Farmstays are an increasingly popular option away from the crowds. Farmstays are available in some of the more rural parts of Goa.

The Central Library is in the old-style colonial Institute Menezes Braganza in Panjim. Don't miss the rare books section. There are also the municipality libraries in the main towns, including Mapusa's Athaide Library. Other research institutions with good collections include the Xavier Centre of Historical Research at Alto Porvorim, the also Jesuit-run Thomas Stevens Konknni Kendra next door at Porvorim, the Goa University, and a quaint Konkani-focussed library called Amchem Diaz ( Our Traditions ), that functions out of the first floor of a commercial establishment not far from the Margao bus stand and the local court.

Goa has a large network of banks, some of which will change currency. In the tourist pockets and urban areas, one comes across such services easily.

• Reserve Bank of India's Foreign Exchange Department , 3A/B Sesa Ghor, Patto in Panjim , ☏ +91 832 2438656 , +91 832 2438659 , fax : +91 832 2438657 .  

Leading hotels, shops and travel agents will also offer foreign currency exchanges.

Country code is +91 (India), Goa is 832, or 0832 if the country code is not prefixed.

Goa's telephone directory hasn't been published for several years. In a state with among the highest teledensities (phones per hundred users) across India, this is a serious handicap. Old telephone directories have segregated phone subscribers on the basis of the many small phone exchanges in the State. (Previously, it needed a trunk-call to call from one exchange to the other, but at least this is not the case now.) So it can be very confusing to locate a particular phone number. However if you do have a phone number for the BSNL Co., then getting the address is easy by dialing 197.

Add to this the reality that the telephone network in Goa is frequently growing, and that telephone numbers have grown from four-digits to the current seven in not too many years, finding the right number you need can be tough.

The Government of Goa's Department of Information and Publicity (at Udyog Bhavan, near Azad Maidan and the Goa Police Headquarters in the heart of Panjim) comes out fairly regularly with an under-priced -- but not easily available -- pocketbook of phone numbers. This focuses largely on politicians, government officials and media persons. Some useful fax numbers, email addresses and websites mentioned here. But don't expect officials to reply to your e-mail!

Yellow pages are also available. To inquire about local businesses contact Hello 2412121 (0832-2412121) or Hello Group Goa [dead link] .

Mobile services have grown fast in Goa. It is fairly easy to get a Prepaid mobile SIM card. It will cost around ₹100, just take a copy of your passport (visa page, entry stamp and photo page) and two passport photos to a phone shop and away you go. It is worth thinking about cost and coverage if you are travelling around India as once you leave Goa and travel to another state you then pay roaming charges for all calls. It is still cheap though. A single text to the UK from Goa costs ₹10 and calls cost about ₹12 a minute.

Internet cafes can be found in Goa's urban areas, tourist spots and hotels. It is not difficult to find an internet centre in a state known for its large expat and tourist population. ID has to be presented and foreigners will need to present their passport before being allowed to use the internet.

Be careful when wading at the beach as undertow riptide currents can be strong in certain beaches. Avoid the mouths of all rivers (such as the Mandovi River at Miramar), especially at low tide when the flow of the water current out to sea is the strongest. And just don't get into the water at all in the off season. The safe swimming period in Goa is November to early May.

Avoid contact with unprocessed cashew nuts as they contain an irritant ('urusiol') also present in poison ivy . The cashew apple is edible when ripe.

Goans are very friendly and helpful. If you meet a driver you like, get their contact information and book them for subsequent trips. Travel guides can be expensive and have been known to dupe foreign visitors. Beware of guides offering to take you to a disco with lots of attractive girls, who will dance with you. This is a scam. Don't go to cheap disco clubs, which are mostly in Calangute, Baga and Anjuna. They steal your money and put you in trouble. The rates are mostly around 500 INR; avoid this.

Any scam that offers a free ride in return for a "prize" will be guaranteed to disappoint.

Beware the 'ear doctors', who are more likely to accost men than women and 'produce' some tiny revolting creature, supposedly from your ear, for which they then offer a 'cure' It is, however, humorous to read the cards they print up promoting themselves.

While travelling by train, beware of pickpockets, strangers who offer you snacks or tea, and other such people who make trains in India a regular hunting ground. Do not take off your shoes in non-A/C coaches or they might get stolen. The same goes with all your valuables.

Don't trust travel agents who say that a train is fully booked. They want you to hire a car that costs more and provides them a kick back. A better thing to do is to check out the details yourself on the Indian Railways website . Also, you can book your railway ticket online [dead link] .

Temperatures in winter and summer can be extreme, so do not forget sunscreen.

Emergency services

Goa now has a number — ☏ 108 for medical emergencies. This service is run by the GVK EMRI (Emergency Management and Research Institute) and is based out of Goa Medical College (Bambolim) and has ambulances posted at various parts of Goa. These ambulances are fully equipped and have trained paramedics.

• Amboli — around 130 km from Goa, Amboli is one of the most preferred destinations for visitors, especially for honeymooners. It is in Maharashtra and features several spots such as Hiranyakeshi Temple, Nagatta Falls, Bauxite mines and Shirgaonkar.
• Gokarna — around 132 km from Goa and exact replica of Goa. It is surrounded with plethora of beaches like Kundle Beach, Paradise Beach, Om Beach and Gokarna Beach. Gokarna is also known as Rudra Yoni, where confluence of two rivers called Aghanashini and Gangavali takes place.
• Ratnagiri — The scenery of this place has been demonstrated by an integration of good civilization and natural geography. Ratnagiri is 250 km from North Goa and features deep valleys, green hills, and paddy fields. There is something unique for every visitor to enjoy and discover here.
• Sawantwadi — It is surrounded by spectacular greenery and range of hills 100 km from Goa. At Sawantwadi, you may come across amazing wildlife including tigers, leopards and wild boars. This place is recognized for its artwork including chitrakathi, kalasutri, bamboo work and other wooden products.

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The former Portuguese enclave of Goa, midway down India ’s southwest coast, has been a holiday destination since colonial times, when British troops used to travel here from across the country for a spot of “R&R”. Back then, the three Bs – bars, brothels and booze – were the big attractions. Now it’s the golden, palm-fringed beaches spread along the state’s 105 km coastline that pull in the tourists – around two million of them each winter. Cheap air travel has made it a major package tour destination for Europeans, and there has been a dramatic rise in domestic visitors in recent years.

The best travel tips for visiting Goa

Best things to do in goa, safety in goa.

• Goa's party scene

Best places to stay in Goa

How to get around, how many days do you need in goa, what is the best time to visit, how to get here, travel ideas for india, created by local experts.

13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days  / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days  / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

15 days  / from 3430 USD

Indian Wildlife Safari

Meet Bengals, birds, monkeys, leopards and more on an amazing wildlife extravaganza visiting India's famous national parks. Experience the countryside by rail, soak up some culture at the Taj Mahal and Rantahnbore Fort and finish with some shopping and sightseeing in the bustling capital, Dehli.

10 days  / from 1900 USD

India: from the Ganges to the Golden Triangle

From Dehli's bustling dusty streets to 'the pink city' of Jaipur and Agra's Taj Mahal, this trip ensures you experience all of India's Golden Triangle highlights. You'll visit sacred Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges and Khajuraho's famous temples too.

7 days  / from 880 USD

Magical Kerala

The intense greens of the Kerala backwaters, overhung by innumerable coconut palms, encapsulate tropical India like nowehere else. Enjoy a lazy cruise on a converted rice barge; visit fragrant spice plantations, explore Cochi and spot local wildlife.

Luckily, in spite of the increasing chaos of Goa’s main resorts, it’s still possible to find the odd quiet corner if you’re prepared to explore.

The linchpin for a vast trade network for more than 450 years, Goa was Portugal’s first toehold in Asia. The first hippie travellers came to the region on the old overland trail shortly after its “Liberation” in 1961.

They found a way of life little changed in centuries: the coastal settlements were little more than fishing- and coconut-cultivation villages.

Relieved to have found somewhere culturally undemanding to party, the travellers got stoned, watched the mesmeric sunsets over the Arabian Sea and danced like lunatics on full-moon nights. The rave scene reached its peak in the 1990s, with “Goa trance” becoming a fully-fledged musical genre.

Since then, the state has been at pains to shake off its reputation as a druggy drop-out zone, and its beaches have grown in popularity year after year.

Around two dozen stretches of soft white sand indent the region’s coast, from spectacular 25km sweeps to secluded palm-backed coves. The level of development behind them varies a great deal; while some are lined by swanky Western-style resorts, others only have palm-leaf shacks.

Planning a trip to India? Perhaps our local experts in India can help you!

Scenic yard and old houses in historical town of Old Goa in India © Shutterstock

From the Saturday Night Market in Arpora to glorious golden beaches, here are the best things to do in Goa.

#1 Explore the former colonial city of Old Goa

Just 10 km from Panjim, and at one time a byword for oriental splendour, Portugal’s former capital in India, Old Goa, was virtually abandoned following malaria and cholera epidemics from the seventeenth century onwards.

Today, despite its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, you need considerable imagination to picture the once great city at its zenith, when it boasted a population of several hundred thousand.

The maze of twisting streets, piazzas and ochre-washed villas has vanished, and all that remains is a score of cream-painted churches and convents.

Foremost among the surviving monuments is the tomb of St Francis Xavier, the legendary sixteenth-century missionary, whose desiccated remains are enshrined in the Basilica of Bom Jesus – the object of veneration for Catholics from across Asia and beyond.

#2 Browse the Saturday Night Market at Arpora

One of the few genuinely positive improvements to the north Goa resort strip over the last fifteen years has been the Saturday Night Market, held on a plot inland at Arpora, midway between Baga and Anjuna.

Originally the brainchild of an expat German called Ingo, it’s run with great efficiency and a sense of fun.

Although far more commercial than its predecessor in Anjuna, many old Goa hands regard this as far truer to the original spirit of the flea market.

A significant proportion of the stalls are taken up by foreigners selling their own stuff, from reproduction of Indian pop art to antique photos, the latest trance party gear, stunning antique and coconut-shell jewellery and techno DJ demos.

There’s also a mouth-watering array of ethnic food and a stage featuring live music from around 7pm until 3am, when the market winds up, as well as a couple of trendy bars with live music or DJs.

#3 Find bargains at Anjuna flea market

Goa’s famous tourist bazaar is the place to pick up the latest party gear, shop for souvenirs and watch the crowds go by. The biggest crowds gather on Wednesdays after Anjuna’s flea market, held in the coconut plantation behind the southern end of the beach, just north of Curlie’s.

This is the place to indulge in a spot of souvenir shopping. Pitches are rented out by the metre, drugs are banned and the approach roads to the village are choked all day with air-conditioned buses and Maruti taxis ferrying in tourists from resorts further down the coast.

If you make it down to Anjuna, make sure to explore it's beautiful beach too.

Anjuna Beach in Goa © Shutterstock

#4 Chill at Aswem, the hippest spot on the north Goan coast

Pretty Aswem, the next settlement north of Morjim, could hardly be described as a proper resort. Officially inside the Coastal Protection Zone, its beachfront holds few permanent buildings and most of the accommodation is in temporary structures.

Yet, over the past few seasons, the strip of soft white sand nestled beneath its mand of slender palms has become the place to see and be seen by India’s hip set – Mumbai millionaires, Bollywood A-listers and international celebs are regularly spotted in the swanky resorts and clubs in the dunes.

A more down-to-earth scene holds sway around the headland to the south, which is family-friendly, with lots of children playing on the beach. How long this stretch can hold out against the rising tide of bling, however, is anyone’s guess.

For now, it's the hippest spot in North Goa to swim, fine-dine and dance under the stars, with the stars.

#5 Tour the beautiful Palacio do Deão

This superb colonial-era palacio stands at Quepem, a thirty-minute drive southeast of Margao on the fringes of the state’s iron-ore belt.

In 1787, a high-ranking member of the Portuguese clergy, Father José Paulo de Almeida, built a country house in the town.

Known as the Palacio do Deão, it grew to become one of the grandest in the colony, and later served as a retreat for its viceroys. The palacio was recently restored to its former glory, and what you see today is a faithful approximation of how the house would have looked in José Paulo’s day.

The engaging guided tour lasts around half an hour.

Palacio do Deao near Quepem. Goa. India © Shutterstock

#6 Eat at the beach shacks

Tuck into a fresh kingfish, lobster or tandoori pomfret, washed down with an ice-cold beer. Benaulim’s proximity to Margao market, along with the presence of a large Christian fishing community, means its restaurants serve some of the tastiest, most competitively priced seafood in Goa.

The largest and busiest shacks flank the beachfront area, where Johncy’s catches most of the passing custom. However, you’ll find better food at lower prices at places further along the beach, which seem to change chefs annually; wander by and see who has the most customers

#7 Go for a sunset stroll at Palolem

Nowhere else in peninsular India conforms so obediently to the archetypal image of a paradise beach as Palolem, 35km south of Margao.

Lined with a swaying curtain of coconut palms, the bay forms a perfect curve of golden sand, arcing north from a giant pile of boulders to a spur of the Sahyadri Hills, which tapers into the sea draped in thick forest.

However, it has become something of a paradise lost over the past decade. It’s now the most popular resort in Goa among independent foreign travellers, and is deluged from late November. Visitor numbers become positively overwhelming in peak season.

Basically, Palolem in full swing is the kind of place you’ll either love at first sight or want to flee from as quickly as possible. If you’re in the latter category, try smaller, less frequented Patnem beach, a short walk south around the headland.

Rough Guides Tip: looking for more beaches? Make sure to read our article about the best beaches in Goa .

Colorful bungalows on the tropical beach of Palolem, South Goa, India © Dan Baciu/Shutterstock

#8 Admire The Sé (St Catherine’s Cathedral) in Old Goa

The Portuguese viceroy Redondo (1561–64) commissioned the Sé, or St Catherine’s Cathedral, southwest of St Cajetan’s, to be “a grandiose church worthy of the wealth, power and fame of the Portuguese who dominated the seas from the Atlantic to the Pacific”.

Today it stands larger than any church in Portugal, although it was beset by problems, not least a lack of funds and the motherland’s temporary loss of independence to Spain. It took eighty years to build and was not consecrated until 1640.

On the Tuscan-style exterior, the one surviving tower houses the Golden Bell, cast in Cuncolim (south Goa) in the seventeenth century.

The scale and opulence of the Corinthian-style interior are overwhelming; no fewer than fifteen altars are arranged around the walls, among them one featuring a Miraculous Cross, said to heal the sick.

#9 Head to the Dudhsagar waterfalls

Measuring a mighty 600m from head to foot, the famous Dudhsagar waterfalls, on the Goa–Karnataka border, are some of the highest in India, and a spectacular enough sight to entice a steady stream of visitors from the coast into the rugged Western Ghats.

The Konkani name for the falls, which literally translated means “sea of milk”, derives from clouds of foam kicked up at the bottom when the water levels are at their highest.

Overlooking a steep, crescent-shaped head of a valley carpeted with pristine tropical forest, Dudhsagar is set amid impressive scenery that is only accessible on foot or by jeep.

The best time to visit is immediately after the monsoons, from October until mid-December, when water levels are highest, although the falls flow well into April.

#10 Relax at Mandrem, the last unspoiled stretch of the north Goan coast

From the far side of the creek bounding the edge of Aswem, a magnificent and largely empty beach stretches north towards Arambol – the last unspoiled stretch of the north Goan coast.

Whether or not Mandrem can continue to hold out against the developers remains to be seen, but for the time being, nature still has the upper hand here.

Olive ridley marine turtles nest on the quietest patches, and you’re more than likely to catch a glimpse of one of the white-bellied fish eagles that live in the casuarina trees – their last stronghold in the north of Goa.

Resort huts on Mandrem beach in north Goa, India © saiko3p/Shutterstock

When embarking on an adventurous journey through the vibrant beaches and captivating landscapes of Goa, it's essential to prioritize your safety. Some tips.

Swimming in Goa: a warning

Be very careful where you swim in Goa. Many places are subject to vicious currents (even in relatively shallow water) and during the season at least one tourist a week drowns here – often after they have consumed drugs or alcohol. It’s safest to stick to the beaches with lifeguards and flags indicating the safe areas to swim. Swimming anywhere during the monsoon would be suicidal.

Sexual harassment in Goa

While the vast majority of harassment of female tourists in Goa is relatively harmless (though unacceptable) – the surreptitious use of cellphones to take photos of scantily clad women on beaches, for example (report them to the beach police and they’ll be forced to delete the pictures), or unwanted attempts at conversation by large groups of men – there have been more serious cases of sexual crimes.

Women should avoid walking alone in remote places (or on the beach), especially after dark, and never accept drinks from strangers. Read more about traveller safety in Goa and the rest of India.

Goa's party scene

Lots of visitors come to Goa expecting to be able to party on the beach every night, and are dismayed when most places to dance turn out to be mainstream clubs they probably wouldn’t look twice at back home. The truth is that the full-on, elbows-in-the-air beach party of old, when tens of thousands of people would space out to huge techno sound systems under neon-painted palm trees, is – for now – pretty much a thing of the past in Goa.

Goa’s coastal villages saw their first big parties back in the 1960s with the influx of hippies to Calangute and Baga. Much to the amazement of the locals, the preferred pastime of these wannabe sadhus was to cavort naked on the sands together on full-moon nights, amid a haze of chillum smoke and loud rock music.

At first the villagers took little notice of these bizarre gatherings, but with each season the scene became better established, and by the late 1970s the Christmas and New Year parties, in particular, had become huge events, attracting travellers from all over the country.

St. Catherine Cathedral (1640) in Goa © Shutterstock

Whether you're seeking pristine beaches, bustling nightlife, or a serene retreat, this guide will highlight the best places to stay in Goa to make your experience unforgettable.

Panjim, Central Goa

Fontainhas are the best places to stay , while more modern and expensive hotels cluster in the area around 18th of June Rd. F

Candolim, North Goa

Candolim is charter-holiday land, so accommodation tends to be expensive for most of the season. That said, if bookings are down you can find some great bargains here.

Sinquerim, North Goa

East of the fort is a genuinely nice place to stay .

Calangute, North Goa

In spite of the encroaching mayhem, plenty of travellers get hooked on Calangute’s mix of the market town and beach resort, returning year after year to stay in little family guesthouses in the fishing waddo. Nowhere is far from the shore, but sea views are a rarity.

Baga, North Goa

Accommodation is harder to find in Baga, as even rooms in smaller guesthouses tend to be booked up well before the season gets underway. The majority of family-run places lie around the north end of the beach, where nights have been a lot more peaceful since Goa’s premier club, Tito’s, acquired soundproofing.

Chapora, North Goa

Chapora specializes in long-term rentals of rooms and houses (by the week or month) to repeat visitors; these economical options can be found by asking around the village.

Morjim, North Goa

Because of the unwelcoming vibe, the hotels and guesthouses immediately behind the beach, in the dunes and along the beachfront road, are best avoided. One really nice option, however, is Jardin d’Ulysse . It stands on the riverfront south of the village.

The Saturday Night Market in Arpora © Shutterstock

Aswem, North Goa

With accommodation either ultrabasic or staggeringly expensive, most visitors ride up to Aswem for the day on scooters and decamp after sunset. A handful of places, however, offer reasonable value.

Madrem, North Goa

Most of the village’s accommodation is tucked away inland at Junasa Waddo, where a growing number of small guesthouses, hotels and yoga retreats cater to a mixed, peace-and-quiet-loving crowd – costs are generally higher than at Arambol, however.

Arambol, North Goa

The cost of accommodation in Arambol has risen sharply over the past few seasons, reflecting the village’s popularity with more affluent hippies, but it’s still nearly all pitched at budget travellers: no-frills, Goan-run guesthouses and expat-inspired hippie-chic predominate here.

Benaulim, South Goa

Aside from the unsightly time-share complexes and fi ve-stars that loom in the fields around the village, most of Benaulim’s accommodation consists of small budget guesthouses, scattered around the lanes 1km or so back from the beach.

Agonda, South Goa

Agonda gets packed in peak season, and over Christmas and New Year you’ll be lucky to find a bed anywhere on spec. Tariffs rocket by fifty percent or more at this time, but after Jan 15 settle back down again and remain on a par with those in Patnem and Palolem.

Except for the upscale camps (which require payment in advance online) few places accept advance bookings so you’ll probably have to plod around to find somewhere that suits, or else phone ahead from the comfort of a café table (though note that mobile coverage tends to be patchy hereabouts).

Palolem, South Goa

The local municipality’s strict enforcement of a rule banning new concrete construction in Palolem (it went so far as to bulldoze without warning the entire resort a few years back) has ensured that most of the village’s accommodation consists of simple palm-leaf huts.

South Goa bungalows, Palolem © Dan Baciu/Shutterstock

Navigating the beautiful region of Goa is a breeze with its well-connected transportation system. Whether you prefer exploring by road, water, or air, this guide will provide you with valuable information on how to get around Goa,

By local bus

Although often crowded, local buses can get you most places in Goa.

Most foreign visitors travel around Goa in white or yellow-and-black Maruti van taxis or the slightly cheaper auto-rickshaw. Fares are often posted at ranks – you should always clearly settle the fare before you start your journey.

By motorcycle taxi

If you’re not weighed down with luggage, motorcycle taxis – known throughout Goa as “pilots” – offer a faster alternative and generally cost less than half the taxi rate.

Just remember that with motorcycle taxis there are old pilots and there are bold pilots, but no old, bold pilots – it’s always best to choose a more mature driver (as well as haggle hard on the rate).

A cheaper alternative is to rent a bicycle (gearless, Indian-madecycles) which are on offer in all the resorts.

For a well-rounded trip, it is recommended to spend a minimum of 4-5 days in Goa. This timeframe allows you to explore different areas of the region, relax on the beaches, engage in water activities, visit popular landmarks like Fort Aguada and Old Goa, and immerse yourself in the unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures that Goa is known for.

However, if you have specific interests, such as partying and enjoying the nightlife scene, you might consider extending your stay to fully experience Goa's vibrant clubs and beach parties. On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed and tranquil vacation, a shorter duration may be sufficient to unwind on the beaches and indulge in leisurely activities.

Dudhsagar waterfall in Goa, India © Shutterstock

The best time to come to Goa is during the dry, relatively cool winter months between late November and mid-March. At other times, either the sun is too hot for comfort, or the humidity, clouds and rain make life miserable.

During peak season, from mid-December to the end of January, the weather is perfect, with temperatures rarely nudging above 32°C. Finding a room or a house to rent at that time, however – particularly over Christmas and New Year when tariffs double, or triple – can be a real hassle.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

Whether you're a backpacker seeking adventure or a beach lover longing for relaxation, this guide will provide you with valuable insights on various transportation options to help you embark on your journey to Goa.

A couple of dozen flights shuttle between Mumbai and Goa’s Dabolim Airport daily.

The fastest and most convenient way to travel along the coast between Goa and Gokarna is on the Konkan Railway. Seven or so more trains run daily on the Konkan Railway from Mumbai.

For travellers, the most stress-free and economical way to travel between Goa and Hosapete, the jumping-off place for Hampi, is the Vasco–Howrah Express.

A fleet of night buses covers the 500 km between Goa and Mumbai – a terrible 16hr journey, best avoided.

The bus journey to/from Hampi is no cheaper than the train (sleeper class) and is far more gruelling. Two or three clapped-out government services leave Panjim’s Kadamba stand (platform #9) each morning for Hosapete.

Find out the best ways to get to India .

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updated 30.05.2023

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Ultimate Goa Travel Guide for the First Time Travelers!

About this blog: This travel guide to Goa will list out all the practical travel tips to the Coastal state of West India, and the country’s most beloved beach destination. If you are traveling to Goa for the first time, you will ideally find all the answers related to Goa travel in this article! If you do not, ask away in the comments section please!

Read all the posts on Goa Travel here!

Traveling to Goa is often hailed as a sign of attaining adolescent in India. Her long stretched coast line promises a new kind of free. Once a part of the iconic Hippie trail that flourished all the way from Europe to Nepal, Goa gave birth to a “New Found Land”, where you can just be, drifting away from the prejudices and societal niceties that bind you beyond logic can reason wish!

You do not visit Goa just once. You want to live there, get drunk on the intangible elixir that Arabian Sea serves with salty breeze! I visited Goa on a long weekend trip from Bangalore. I revisited Goa with another set of friends, in between a lot of failed Goa trip planning which are an incumbent part of Indian Millennial’s growing up experience! Then life happened and I visited Goa multiple times for “work”, I mean for travel blogging.

Each time, I visit, Goa opens a new chapter from past, while siting glorious nature by side.

• Language spoken: Konkoni, Marathi. Largely understood- English and Hindi.
• Famous for Beautiful beaches, water-sports, night-markets, sea food, yoga, nightlife
• Safer place to travel to for solo women in India
• It is a tiny state. Prosperous and with higher literacy rate. One of the leading tourist destinations in India.

How to reach Goa (by car/train/flight)

Goa is well connected with the rest of the country. Especially, multiple hour-long flights fly daily from Mumbai (erstwhile Bombay) to Goa, India’s financial capital. I prefer train journey to Goa as the route is particularly scenic!

Train journey by Konkan Railways!

Madgaon (MAO) and Vasco Da Gama (VSG) are the two major railway stations that connect Goa with rest of the country. If you are traveling to Goa from Bangalore or southern parts of India, I highly recommend taking a ride through Konkon railway. You shall see Dudhsagar falls for a fraction and mist shrouded lush green jungle everywhere will greet you to the land of Goa.

Fly into Dabolim Airport, Goa

Dabolim (GOI) is a domestic airport which is yet to receive international flights unless you are flying on a charter plane from somewhere in Russia. That is how Russians fly into Goa, in style. However, domestic carriers like Air Asia, Indigo, Spice Jet have multiple flights to Goa from morning 6 am to 11 pm at night.

Also keep in mind, Dabolim is an army airport serving the naval base of Indian Military and photography is restricted here. In Goa, a new airport is on the make to accommodate increased tourist footfall and should be operational by 2020.

Bus to Goa from nearby states

Overnight bus runs from nearby states and takes you to the connecting hub at Kadamba Bus station. From Bombay or Pune, traveling to Goa by bus is a last minute budget option. Bangalore to Goa bus is there too, however it runs for a painful 11/12 hours and stops are sparse. Bus journey in India do not have attached tpilets.

Goa Central bus station is located at the heart of Panaji. You can further change bus for North or South Goa or rent a car. Public bus ply in Goa till 6 pm and then frequency slows down, especially for the longer routes till Margao etc.

Road-trip to Goa

NH 66 passes through the Western coast of Indian peninsula and runs through Goa. Roads are a pleasure to drive. However you need international licence to drive in India (in case you are not Indian passport holder).

On new year eve or long weekends, there had been multiple reports of roadblocks with excessive traffic. Monsoon may cause road blockage due to mild flooding as well.

Public Transport in Goa

Kadamba line has recently hit the Goa roads. The Aircon bus runs from Panaji to tourist town of Arambol and Calagute. They also have hourly connectivity with Dabolim airport. Prices are close to INR 100 and Kadamba busline in Goa is the safest transport option.

How to rent a bike in Goa

You can also hire bikes, cars by depositing your licence. Do not forget to get a photo of the license which will can be further used at police check points on the road if any.

Bikes or cars are generally driven on the left side of the lane everywhere in India. Traffic rules are strict. Drunk driving is a punishable offence.

Also read about the most beautiful beaches of Goa . You may explore some of them in a long weekend vacation to Goa as well!

Best Time to Visit Goa

Famous for beach-life, Goa is best enjoyed under the bright sun. Winter is literally non existence.

Usually, tourist season in Goa spans from November to wee end of March. April is when school in India are closed for summer and you are likely to see plenty of domestic families traveling to Goa. Come every long weekend, millennial Indians working in nearby cities head to Goa to chase the grand sunset on Arabian sea. That crowd does not disperse when during monsoon.

The winter months in Goa usually have a very pleasurable moderate weather. They neither make you shiver under the blanket, nor force-feed challenging humidity. Summer can be different though, with a bright sun scorching everything on its way.

Monsoon in Goa

Monsoon in Goa is painfully beautiful. Raindrops drizzle from the straw huts and hinterlands turn lush green, complementing a swelled up river Mandovi. But Arabian Sea takes up a dangerous form, with most of the beach being off limit to swimmers. Watersports are usually closed during monsoon. Beach shacks are extinct.

Head to Goa during monsoon, if you love nature. However for the postcard perfect Goa where golden sand beaches stretch out till the horizon, dotted with coconut groves, you need to wait till dry month of winter.

Many beach huts and beach shacks are usually closed during monsoon. Be cognizant of the fact, relentless rain may also cause violent undercurrent in the sea.

Festivals in Goa

Be it a reminiscent of 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule or rich heritage of locals who find mention in epic tales of Mahabharat, Goa has no dearth of festivals and celebrations. It is worth planning your trip around one such festival in Goa. Watch out for the colorful costume, specific food, people letting there hair down and being a part of the merry procession, irrespective of cast and creed. It is beautiful.

Narkasur : Post Diwali, Narka Chaturdashi celebration where good triumphs over evil is manifested. It resembles that of Bhoot Chaturdashi or Dakini Jogini in Bengal , which we worship during Kalipuja when the rest of the country celebrates Diwali.

Viva Carnival : The Catholic festival, often compared to Mardi Gras, or even Rio carnival, that starts from Fat Saturday ( Sabado Gordo ) and end on Fat Tuesday, is a grand celebration where floats, parades, masked dance and other cultural identity find a way of expression. It is celebrated in Panaji and sort of reminds me of “Bisarjan Carnival” of Durgapuja, Kolkata .

New Years Eve: 31st December. Goa brings in New year in style with beaches beaming with color, elaborate fireworks and music.

Music festival in Goa : Supersonic, Sunburn.

Also read: Ramadan Foodwalk in Hyderabad!

Where to stay in Goa

I keep saying Goa as a tiny state. However, it takes at least 7 days to cover all the coastal region and hinterlands of Goa. You will still not see everything, but at least scratch the surface.

It is imperative, where you choose to stay in Goa, can actually make or break the experience.

Let me break down possible tourist accommodation options in Goa in three broad categories. Those who love to party and want to taste every pleasure Goa offers to tourists, must choose Baga or Calangute . Those who love offbeat stays and serenity, can choose between further North or South Goa. Panaji is the capital with plenty of old world charm. But who lives in Panaji when holidaying in Goa? It is good for a day trip.

North or South Goa, how to choose where to stay : this question can be compared with who came first, chicken or the egg? Here, let us look at the pros and cons of each area. I have stayed in these places personally and sharing feedback basis on my experience.

Staying at Baga/Calangute

Pro: Almost everything is available. You name it and you get it. Multiple bike rentals, car rentals, accommodation options, budget hostels, central bus station, public transport, bustling nightlife, cheap and quirky cafes. Nice beach, but…

Con: … the beach is super crowded. Especially, if you are in Baga on a weekend. Prices are on the higher end. Beach shacks are aplenty on season but charges painfully high price.

Staying at Arambol/Ashwem (extreme North Goa)

Despite a Cyclonic storm, I loved my experience of staying at the Yab Yum Beach Resort, Goa. It was right next to the hidden Ashwem beach and away from the buzz of a world moving, changing at a lightening fast speed.

Pro: Offbeat destination, often entire stretch of beach to yourself, away from where stag groups travel hence safer option for a solo woman traveler.

Con: Lack of water sports and limited activities. Not a bustling nightlife around.

Also read: Top 12 Cultural experiences in Goa!

Staying at South Goa

In south Goa, Colva, Benaulim, and Varca has multiple luxury resorts and upscale stay options. Further down south, Agonda and Patnem has better tourist infrastructures.

Pro: Offbeat, serene place, less crowded, beautiful lagoon style beaches, authentic local experience. Best for slow travel and exploring.

Con: Further away from central location. Long drive from airport/train station. Pricier in some cases. Less activities.

Book a stay in G oa: check reviews and best prices here!

Alternative stays in Goa

Goa also houses a world class wellness resort at Divar Island, where tranquility finds a new name. Check out my review of Mercure Devaaya Resort and choose it for a complete detoxing (7 spiritual) holiday in Goa!

Also read: 7 days in Shillong, where I lost my heart!

How Many Days are Good for Goa

Those who stay close-by, visit Goa for 3/4 days for a quick relaxing holiday by the beach. In reality, Goa deserves a longer stay, preferably between one week to 10 days. The state, in its short geographical span, holds numerous beautiful places of interests, each of which merits a visit.

With friendly locals, good connectivity and decent internet, Goa has emerged as an obvious choice for digital nomad hot spot in India. Slow traveling, living by the beach, great cafes and regular interaction with creative artists, Goa promises all of these and more. I have seen western families traveling to Goa with kids and their homework pile and solving mathematics by the beach. It felt surreal to some extent. Our summer vacations were ll about visiting Dadu and learning English grammar in the afternoon by the “ parar pukur “, local pond!

Top Things to Do in Goa

Goa is lauded as the beach capital of India. There are countless beautiful beaches in Goa, with Baga being one of the longest in entire world. They are sometimes hidden by a cliff, sometime out in the open. Some beaches in Goa are protector of lagoon. Some of them emerge with tidal waves. Beach hopping is what you must do when in Goa.

My pick for top 5 beaches in Goa!

• Cancolim Beach: the best in North Goa. The crowd is decent. Shacks were nice. Restaurants close-by were serving delicious food. Nightlife is good too.
• Ashwem beach: The best looking beach with white sand and blue sky as the backdrop. Located by the cliffs hence a bit hidden from the outside world. private and sky. No shack nearby.
• Vagator beach: Best looking beach as you get a perspective from the cliff. Chapora fort is located close which is an amazing place to catch the sunset!
• Colva beach: The only beach in Goa where I found translucent clear water despite heavy crowd During independence day. There is a shack close by where they serve Bengali meal too! I think it was named a Sonar Bangla. Local fishermen’s boat create beautiful photo ops at the Colva beach.
• Palolem beach: One of the best beaches in South Goa. It is coming up fast with many activities, local markets and food joints close by.

Also read: A complete guide to wildlife safari at Masaimara, Kenya!

Goa beyond the beaches!

However, there are tonnes of offbeat things to do in Goa . They span from cultural exploration to adventure activities.

1. Explore Old Goa. Velha Goa . It houses Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, both UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. Explore colorful neighborhood of Fontainhas , a piece of Portugal at the heart of Goa!

3. Take a day trip to the mighty Doodhsagar falls. Be cognizance of the fact that only local cars take you to the top. Only a limited number of car gets permit everyday hence it is best if you start your day early.

4. Sinquerim beach is the hot bed for all the water sport activities in Goa. Water sports are subject to a clear weather day. Parasailing, jet ski and banana boat are the most fun activities in my opinion.

5. Birding at Dr. Salim Ali Sanctuary is one of the prized experience in Goa. If you have time, I suggest take a day off to Dandeli wildlife Sanctuary and watch the pied piper hornbills in North Karnataka.

Yoga in Goa

Plenty of Yoga Teacher training school and Yoga retreats have come up in Goa. I stayed at the Devaaya resort and has taken part in Sunrise Yoga sessions which was uplifting holistic experience. Do not forget to pack a few yoga mats in your Goa bound luggage because there is nothing more refreshing than starting an active day on a beach.

Nightlife in Goa

There is no dearth of option in Goa, if you are a social animal. From night long trance parties to casino to nightclubs, central Goa usually stays abuzz with events for the whole night!

• Play at one of the casino cruise when in Goa. I went to Delyin and I liked the experience despite sort of meh food.
• LPK (Love Passion Karma) at Nerul is one club with decent crowd. Club Cubana is nice too.

Money Matters

Goa can be traveled in a shoestring budget. Goa can easily turn into a luxurious trip if you are in a mood to splurge. Options are wide and endless!

Night clubs, Casino, fine dine restaurants like Thalassa are few of the high class places to visit in Goa. For luxury stay, go with the Taj Aguada.

Like the rest of India, cash is the king in Goa, especially when you are buying from local markets or eating at the street side joints. Cash will make you and the seller happy. However card and in some cases digital wallets (think PayTM, much like M-pesa in Kenya or google Pay) works too.

Stay Connected: Wifi in Goa

Goa is well connected with most prominent Indian network (think Airtel, Vodaphone, or more recent Jio). However, I have seen network drops as you proceed towards obscure interior of the state.

Most of the hotels and beach side cafes provide decent wifi to get some work done, if not streaming a Netflix series.

Tracing back the Hippie trail from olden Goa!

The ghost of 70s hippie trail is yet to give Goa a respite. A typical hippie with grunge deadlocks and deep understanding of empty meagerness of life is a rare find. What you can find is a lot of western travelers tucked away at the fringe end of North and South Goa beaches. Think Arambol. Think Mandrem. Think Patnem.

Arambol is famed for the evening drum songs on the beach.

Souvenir Shopping in Goa

The iconic flea market of Anjuna and the likes of it which have mushroomed in recent times sell a number of interesting stuff. Though it may feel like a bargain, I tell you a bitter truth. I have bought/seen similar silver anklets or beaded necklace for lesser price at Gariahat market, Kolkata . Buy jewelry only if you are not heading to Kolkata in near future!

Bargaining in Indian local market is an art by itself. I usually start from 1/3rd of the initial quote. It may yield a good buy or sometimes I have to let it go.

Flea markets in Goa in earlier days used to sell imported goods which were off limits by virtue of a socialist state. Now that the entire globe is one village and we are swimming in a globalized market, most of these products make their way from China.

I usually sky away from these souvenir shops unless I am on the lookout for a quick swimwear. My favorite souvenirs from Goa are:

• A bottle of Feni
• Kunbi saree
• Musical instruments
• Bibinca cake
• Bottle of Kokum Juice
• Spices, especially black pepper and bird’s eye chillies
• Azulejos: Handpainted tiles of Goa

I Know. I am inching towards a life sans hedonism!

Arpora night market is a famous addition. So are the Sunday night markets. There are aplenty in Goa.

Stay safe when in Goa!

Goa is a safe place to travel to.

You may come across few rare news of violence against tourists in Goa. To be honest, I have traveled in Goa during a natural calamity (Cyclone Kyarr) and was scared of pack of dogs more than unknown male.

I was traveling solo. Even when I was traveling with friends, Goa was a safe place.

It is not the locals of Goa, but people traveling to Goa that create problem. Stay AWAY if you spot a group of male friends.

If people want to click a selfie with you, and come close with that excuse, strictly deny. This has escalated into unpleasant consequences in past. If you are making new friends and drinking with them, be very very cautious, irrespective of the new friends’ gender. Traveling from Central Goa to North (say Baga to Ashwem/Arambol) may turn out to be a tricky choice if you are a solo woman. I would suggest, try to pack your day by sunlight, especially if you are traveling alone and do not have a private vehicle.

Uber does not work in Goa. They have an app named Goa Miles. It works. Sometimes, it does not. It is a bit tricky. You should always have a plan B.

Mosquito and insect repellents are must when you are packing for Goa. Mosquito bites can make you susceptible to Malaria, Dengue apart from unpleasant looking rash.

When you discover an empty beach, be careful while approaching the bush or jungle nearby. Poisonous snake may call it home! yes, I have encountered a Cobra when in Goa. I am still alive and writing this blog post so do not panic!

Responsible Travel Tips for Goa

The Single Use plastic menace in Goa!

Beaches in Goa goes through surging plastic pollution, littering and other vices during tourist season. I have seen plogging party arranged by local communities at Arambol however there is no permanent solution to it. Plastic is hardly recycled in Goa.

Each coconut you buy, comes with a straw which put me off to no end. Traditionally, coconut juice is drunk in India from the shell itself. A few droplets will drench your shirt but that’s the beauty of it. Straws have emerged as the new devil.

Try to be mindful when you consume and stay away from accepting that extra single use plastic. Small things like carrying own tiffin-box for a take away counts in the longer run too!

Wildlife in Goa

Goa is largely saved from the vices of animal riding, say horses or camels on the beach. There are cows on the beach in abundance but they cohabit with humans, and work on the field on season, with the farmer. India remains largely an Agriculture based economy.

The only time I found disturbing proximity to animals were when local fishermen approach you for Dolphin tours. They will basically chase the dolphins in their natural habitat. I say leave it to your luck. I met dolphin in Goa when I was on a water bike. It came, pranced along by the side and swam alongside for 5 minutes before disappearing. What a blissful experience!

Support the local artist in Goa

Goa has a thriving artist community. Multiple art gallery dot the street side of Baga and calangute. Make sure you visit one and support the artist by buying her creation. Goa also has beautiful checkered print Saree, also known as Kunbi Saree. I think they add value to any collector’s wardrobe.

Alcohol & Drug in Goa

Due to relaxed taxation policy, alcohol is cheaper in Goa than other states in India. The local moonshine, Feni, has earned a GI tag and is a must try when in Goa. However drunk driving is a punishable offence by law, anywhere in India. Buying alcohol in Goa and taking is to other states can also draw ire of the authority. Do check with your flight/transport provider.

Drug consumption is punishable offence in India. Ganja/weed is sometimes sold on the beach by some over enthusiast chaps, which is an illegal act by itself. Of course it can lead to what happened to Saif Ali Khan in Dil Chahta Hain. Find out at your own risk!

Also read: Kaziranga, home to India’s one horned Rhino populace!

What to wear in Goa

Wearing a bikini/swimsuit in Goa: Yay or nay?

Beaches in Goa are more relaxed in dressing code compared to other Indian beaches. I have personally worn bikini in the following beaches and did not attract unwanted male stare/attention: Baga, Calangute, Candolim, Vagator, Colva, Arambol, Ashwem. Palolem is cool as well.

If you are staying by a beach-side resort, you can generally venture out in the sea in a bikini. When you are walking in the city, or going to eat at restaurants, please do NOT wear swimwear. It is not acceptable.

Hinterlands of Goa is made of traditional Indian households where modest clothing is encouraged. You will not stand out and can easily use public transport if you wear something that covers shoulder and knees. Carry a stole as that will help you to stay safe from the bright sun, fight back humidity and enter temples or churches if any.

Public toilet in Goa

Depending on the hotel you choose, you are likely to encounter a western toilet for a mid-budget to luxury route. For a more budget friendly option, Indian style toilet may make an appearance. It is does, learn to use the mug. In this part of the world, we do our business with water. If you want your tissue bad, I suggest carry some in the purse.

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36 Responses

Wow – clearly we need to put Goa on our Asia bucket list! Thank you for the very informative post.

Wow! What a comprehensive guide! I’ve only visited once some 25+ years ago! I’d love to go again with kids that age ?. I’ll save your guide to use it later

I will be heading to Goa soon. Am glad I came across you post!

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Thank you for writing such an informative essay about the destination. It gives a whole new perspective on Goa, the fantasy vacation spot. The excursion was fantastic, especially the banana ride, which I thoroughly liked. The best things to do in Goa were scuba diving, jet skiing, and snorkelling while admiring the splendour of the underwater marine life.

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• Goa Tourism

Picturesque Beaches, Good Vibes, and Adventure Await in Goa

Tourists can unwind themselves on the white sand beaches of Goa.

With endless options for adventure activities Goa gives you an ideal holiday experience.

Goa is the first choice of tourists when it comes to nightlife and festivities.

• Best Time to Visit
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About Goa Tourism

The coastal paradise, Goa is not unknown to anyone. This tiny state in West India is famous for its plethora of beautiful beaches, great seafood, amazing nightlife, and thrilling watersports.

Goa along with being a popular beach destination in India is a perfect honeymoon destination, a great getaway with friends, and an amazing family holiday place, which means, the place is filled with activities and attractions to keep all its visitors engaged.

The state is majorly divided into two districts - North Goa and South Goa. North Goa is famous for its lively beaches like Calangute, Baga, Candolim, Anjuna; beach shacks, Fort Aguada; Church of Mae De Dues; Boghdeshwara Temple; and Chorao, Divar Island.

South Goa, on the other hand is known for its quieter beaches like Butterfly, Palolem, Polem, and Agonda; luxury resorts; Se Cathedral and St Xavier’s Church; and many sightseeing places like Dudhsagar Waterfalls where one can enjoy trekking as well.

Goa also offers its visitors the chance to enjoy river carnivals; Rajbhavan Darshan; e-bikes tour; white water river rafting; hot air ballooning; birding tours at Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary; Ayurveda massages; shopping; water activities like scuba diving and sea rafting; and other adventure activities like motorised paragliding, and bungee jumping.

In our Goa Travel Guide, we add the most authentic information ensuring you know everything about the state before planning a trip. Our authentic Goa travel guide includes information on places to visit, top things to do, and best hotels. With us, you also get the best Goa tour packages that ensure an amazing holiday experience at this top beach destination in India.

A Quick Information About the State – Goa

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10 Nights - 11 Days

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Best of India Beaches

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Golden Beaches of Goa

6 Nights - 7 Days

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15 Nights - 16 Days

Goa Tour with Mumbai & Karnataka

• Best Time to Visit Goa

Summer Season in Goa

The summer season between March and June in Goa is quite hot with temperature ranging between 25°C and 40°C.

Monsoon Season in Goa

Monsoon in Goa is between July and August. Goa receives medium to high rainfall leaving beaches closed but the state greener.

Winter Season in Goa

Winter season is from November to February and is the best time to plan a visit to Goa.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Goa

Agonda Beach

Agonda Beach is perfect for swimming and chilling. It is also great for taking a boat ride and enjoying the expanse of the sea and the beauty of nearby Butterfly and Honeymoon Beaches.

One of the most happening beaches in Goa, Baga Beach is where you will find water sports, fine dining restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Palolem Beach

A cosy and quieter beach, Palolem is popular for its Silent Noise Party and relaxing ambiance in Goa.

Ashwem Beach

Ashwem Beach, located to the north of Panaji, Goa’s capital city, is a delightful sandy stretch edged with green coconut palms & adorable views of the ocean vistas.

• Candolim Beach

One of the longest beaches in Goa, Candolim Beach is also sometimes called the gateway to the other popular beaches in the state.

Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach is a perfect place for taking Yoga classes. The beach also has a drum circle; a weekend beachside market; and a mystical baba sitting on top of a hillock.

Aguada Beach

The beautiful Aguada Beach is primarily known for the impressive Fort Aguada. This beach in North Goa is ideal for strolling and watching the sunrise and sunsets.

• Calangute Beach

Dubbed the Queen of Beaches, Calangute Beach is unarguably one of the most popular beaches in Goa. It is also the busiest beach in North Goa with restaurants, shacks, and clubs fringing it

• Colva Beach

Activity, excitement & commotion, you will find plenty of these at Colva Beach. Those enthusiastic about water sports should not miss out visiting this beach during their holidays in Goa

Miramar Beach

An urban beach in North Goa, Miramar Beach was once known as Gasper Dias Beach. A short distance away from Panaji, Goa’s capital city, Miramar is a family-friendly beach.

• Anjuna Beach

Anjuna Beach is known for its lively nightlife. It has a number of nightclubs like Paradiso that offer great music, dance floors, and ambiance to keep the nights alive.

Bambolim Beach

Bambolim Beach is located about 7 kilometers from Panaji, the capital city of Goa. Those looking to enjoy a picnic or a quiet day at the beach, should head to Bambolim Beach.

Bogmalo Beach

A quiet beach in South Goa, Bogmalo is the destination for those beach lovers who want to spend sometime enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Morjim Beach

One of the quieter beaches of North Goa, Morjim Beach is also known as Little Russia due to its immense popularity amidst Russian travellers.

Sinquerim Beach

Sinquerim Beach is located just beside Aguada Fort, a major tourist attraction in Goa with immense historical significance.

Patnem Beach

If you are excited by the thought of enjoying Goa’s juicy seafood while having an exciting day at the beach, then Patnem Beach is where you should head to.

Betul Beach

Betul Beach is where you come to unwind, relax & just enjoy the views of the sun, sand & sea. It is famous for being home to Goa’s largest & tastiest mussels.

• Benaulim Beach

What also makes Benaulim Beach so special is that despite not being as touristy as the other beaches in Goa, it offers you opportunities to try out a variety of water sports.

Majorda Beach

Majorda Beach, located in South Goa, is one of the prettiest beaches of Goa. It is for those seeking solitude along with a bit of fun thrown in between.

Betalbatim Beach

The 1 kilometer long Betalbatim Beach is neatly settled between Colva & Majorda Beach. It’s also famous among tourists as the Sunset Beach, because of the breathtaking views of the sunset that greet you.

Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach is the most photographed beach in Goa. The beach is dotted with a hillock on one side & headland on the other.

Varca Cavelossim

Varca Beach relatively uncrowded compared to the other beaches in Goa, and gives you the privacy you need while enjoying a vacation in Goa.

Turtle Beach

Galgibaga, or Turtle Beach, in South Goa, is one of the few beaches in Goa that are the nesting ground of the shy Olive Ridley Turtles, a protected species.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Goa

• Fort Aguada

An impressive Portuguese Fort, Aguada Fort, overlooking the vast ocean is a must-see in Goa.

• Chapora Fort

Called ‘Dil Chahta Hai Fort’, Chapora Fort is an unmissable site to visit in Goa.

• Dudhsagar Falls

The four-tiered waterfall is an iconic attraction in Goa you cannot afford to miss.

Anjuna Wednesday Market

A weekly flea market at Anjuna Beach is everyone’s favourite place to shop in Goa.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is where you can sight the relics of St. Francis Xavier

Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

A beautiful Portuguese-era church, it is the top attraction to see in Goa.

Fontainhas Latin Quarter

A UNESCO World Heritage Zone, is the top attraction for a walking tour in Goa.

Top Things to Do in Goa

Scuba Diving

Enjoy exploring the exciting and colourful underwater world at the top beaches in Goa.

Water Sports

From Banana boat ride to water skiing, the beaches in Goa offer thrilling water activities to enjoy

Bungee Jumping

Jump from the height of 55m from Goa’s first permanent bungee-site to feel the adrenaline rush.

• Motorized Paragliding

Fly like a bird in the sky of Goa while enjoying one-of-its-kind motorized paragliding.

Hot Air Ballooning

Relish the bird-eye view of picturesque Goa’s beaches in a 1-hour hot air balloon ride.

Set out on the sea and enjoy the beauty of azure waters and views of dolphin pods swimming along your boat.

Birding Tour

On the islands of Goa relish the sight, sound, and flight of a variety of birds.

E-Bikes Tour

Experience India’s first e-bikes tours while exploring the hidden gems of Goa.

Ayurveda Massages

Avail the best of Ayurveda therapies like Panchkarma in the beach paradise of Goa.

• How to Reach Goa

Madgaon and Vasco Da Gama railway stations connect Goa to major cities of India

Dabolim International Airport connects Goa to the major cities of India and abroad.

NH 66, NH 366, NH 566, and NH 748 connect Goa to the major cities of India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what is the best to visit goa.

Goa has a tropical climate and can be visited all throughout the year with each season offering an amazing experience to the travellers. Summers in Goa are more popular with families and kids whereas the destination in monsoon let the tourist indulge in some of the water activities. Goa in winter season experiences cool and comfortable weather making it a perfect time for sunbathing.

Q. Why to visit Goa?

Goa offers a plethora of exciting activities for the tourist. From water sports in scenic sand beaches, shopping in flea markets, visiting colonial churches, to adventure tourism, chill and grill life of rave parties, yoga and ayurveda for rejuvenating your soul and spectacular views of picturesque beaches, Goa has it all. Moreover, Goa is a paradise for delectable seafood and awesome destination weddings.

Q. What is Goa famous for?

Goa is one of the most visited destinations in India, which is extremely popular for its beaches, rave parties, nightlife, flea markets, Casinos, Lip smacking cuisines, Portuguese style houses and colonial churches. The most important aspect of Goa is that it is a heaven for adventure lovers. Numerous water sports like Kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving etc. provides thrill and excitement to adrenaline junkies. Apart from that Goa also a perfect choice for solitude seekers and couples because of the exotic and offbeat locations, South Goa is very popular for its pristine beaches and remote locations.

Q. What are the famous events organized in Goa?

Goa is the first choice of tourists when it comes to nightlife and festivities. Tourist from all across the world come here to revel in the charms of Goan culture and festivities. Some of the very popular events organized in Goa are –

• Goa Carnival
• Saptah Festival
• Goa Food and Culture Fest
• Goa Cashew and Coconut Fest
• Goa Sunburn Festival
• Three Kings Fest
• Shigmo festival
• Bonderam Festival
• St. Francis Xavier’s Fest

Q. How is the weather in Goa during winter, summer and monsoon Season?

Goa in Winter - winter in Goa starts from November and ends in February. The temperature ranges from 20-22 degree Celsius, which is the best weather to relax and sun bathe on sandy beaches. During this time Goa is dipped in the vibes of Christmas and New Year. The mega Sunburn festival is also organized in winter to blow the heart of tourists.

Goa in Summer - Summer in Goa starts from March and ends in May. The temperature ranges from 24-35 degree Celsius. It is not a favourable weather to travel in Goa due to hot and humid climate. However, cost of hotels and homestays are very low as it is an offseason to travel to Goa.

Goa in Monsoon - Monsoon in Goa starts from mid-June and ends in October. The temperature ranges from 28-30 degree Celsius. It is one of the best season to travel in Goa for those who loves to spend time in the solitude of nature. Due to high tides, beach activities are not possible but the weather is very awesome if you want to see lush greenery and scenic landscapes. Sao Jao festival is also celebrated during Monsoon.

Q. What are the best places to enjoy nightlife in Goa?

Goa’s nightlife is the most beautiful experience one can ever have. In fact, Goa is known for its nightlife and chill and grill vibes. Some of the best places to enjoy nightlife in Goa are

• Hammerzz Nightclub, Goa
• Mambo’s night club
• Club Cubana
• Shiva Valley
• Cape Town Café
• Bombay Adda

Q. How many Domestic and International Airports are there in Goa?

Goa is well connected by airline services to the most major cities in India. All national and international flights operate from Goa International Airport at Dabolim which is 30 km from Panaji. It is the only airport Goa has. Chattered flights also land in Goa from UK and other European countries.

You can easily get chattered flights from Goa International airport's international terminal and domestic flights from domestic terminal.

Q. Is Goa safe for woman traveller?

Safety is the main concern for woman when it comes to travelling. Most parts of Goa are absolutely safe. However, one should always be aware of the surroundings nearby. It’s not about the destination as anything can happen anywhere. Most parts of Goa are woman Friendly; locals are also friendly and welcoming.

Q. How many minimum days are required to visit Goa?

It absolutely depends on the time and budget you have. Goa has many things to offer, From Beaches, Goan cuisine, heritage tour to alluring nightlife and adventure activities Goa gives the best holiday experience to the tourists. South Goa and North Goa offers unique activities to do and both are equally worth visiting. At least 2 weeks are required for Goa to explore the best of it, one for North Goa and one week for South Goa. If you want to explore nightlife and heritage, consider North Goa and if you need solace and beach fun explore South Goa.

Why Choose TMI for Goa?

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We are certified by major tour and travel associations in India and world like IATA, IATO, TAAI, IMF & MOT (Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India).

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TMI has received numerous accolades from its happy customers for its excellent services and best Goa holidays.

Local Offices

We have local office in Goa for our customers to find assistance anytime and anywhere.

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Quick Links to Important Information in Goa

Goa travel information at a glance.

• People & Culture of Goa
• Goa Festivals
• Things to Buy from Goa

Goa Destinations

Goa tourism packages.

• Anjuna Beach Tour Packages
• Baga Beach Tour Packages
• Candolim Beach Tour Packages
• Calangute Beach Tour Packages
• Benaulim Beach Tour Packages
• Colva Beach Tour Packages

Goa Holidays by Interest

• Goa Honeymoon Packages
• Goa Family Packages
• Goa Beach Packages
• Goa Luxury Packages
• Goa Weekend Packages
• Goa Ayurveda Packages
• Goa E-Bike Tours
• Hot Air Ballooing
• Sea Rafting in Goa
• Cruising in Goa
• Bird Watching

Goa Attractions

• Shantadurga Devi Mandir
• Se Cathedral
• Arvalem Falls

Hotels in Goa

• Hotels in Calangute Beach
• Hotels in Anjuna Beach
• Hotels in Colva Beach
• Hotels in Cavelossim Beach
• Hotels in Palolem Beach

Other Imp Links

• Goa Tourism Map
• Goa Tourist Visa
• Film Tourism in Goa

Goa Tourism

• Harvalem Waterfall
• Alex Church Goa
• Saturday Night Market
• Corjuem Fort
• Miramar Beach
• Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church Goa
• Dona Paula Jetty
• Curlies Beach Shack Anjuna
• View all 102 places
• Things to do
• Best time to visit
• How to Reach
• Tourist Map

Explore Places to Visit Near Goa by Type

Other Suggested Reads for Goa

• Places To Visit in Goa
• Things to do in Goa
• How to Reach Goa
• Best time to Visit in Goa
• Goa Tourism History
• Food in Goa
• FAQS about Goa
• Goa Tourist Map

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• India Tourism
• goa tourism

Goa Tourism

The beautiful land of Goa has become India’s favourite holiday destination ever since it gained its independence from the Portuguese. Rising to prominence with the boho and hipster culture, Goa tourism has achieved a legendary status over the years. Starting out as an exotic hippie town, the holiday experience of Goa has now evolved to match some of the best holiday destinations around the world.

With a rich history and an abundance of things to do, you can have a memorable holiday in Goa. The modern infrastructure complements the rich historical significance of this holiday destination extremely well. The people of Goa take immense pride in their heritage and history. In fact, most of Goa tourism concentrates on showcasing their history and preserving it for their future generations. Each Goa tourist place focuses on highlighting its culture and heritage.

Once you have been to Goa, it will carve its own place in your heart. You will keep coming back to replenish the well of your memories straight form the source. Pure and unadulterated.

Trust Goa tourism to take you on a magical ride every time you visit here.

Goa Quick Overview

Goa geography.

Goa sits pretty in the Western Ghats region of India. Separated from the Deccan Plateau by the rising escarpment of the Konkan region, Goa has a mixed terrain. It can be divided into four main regions based on its topography.

1.       The Coastal Plains are made up of areas like Mormugao, Salcete, Tiswadi and Bardez.

2.       Eastern Sanguem, Ponda, Pernem, Bicholim and Quepem make up the Central Valley region.

3.       The Eastern Hill region is comprised of areas in the Western Ghats like Canacona, Sattari, Ponda and Sanguem.

4.       Finally, the flood plains are made up of the coastal plains and the undulating uplands.

This varied topography has resulted in a rich ecology that is supplemented by a strong monsoon every year. With a 105-km-long coastline facing the Arabian Sea in the West, Goa shares its border with Karnataka in the south and east while it is bordered by Maharashtra in the north.

Goa Climate

Goa is blessed with tropical climate that makes its summers hot and the winters mild. Goa becomes unbearably hot during the summer months of March, April and May – and once again during October. Temperatures in summer can go as high as 40°C.

Goa receives plenty of rainfall during the monsoon which lasts from June to September. The rains come as a relief after the hot and dry summer months. The monsoon rains replenish the rivers and Goa’s natural beauty really blossoms during the rainy season.

As the rains begin to recede around September, November sees a dip in minimum average temperatures heralding the arrival of winter. With the mercury dipping as low as 15°C at night, Goa tourism is at its peak during this season. The cool nights and the mild days draw in hordes of tourists who descend on Goa to celebrate life and create memories of a lifetime. If you are planning a Goa trip, November to February is the best time to visit Goa . 

Goa Culture

Goa has a unique culture. After spending around 450 years under Portuguese rule, the Portuguese influence can be seen on every aspect of the life in Goa and the Goan tourist places and culture. That includes the architecture and the cuisine and even the concept of ‘Susegad’ that is based on the Portuguese word ‘Sossegado’. Though many travel guides describe susegad as “a relaxed attitude and enjoyment of life to the fullest” it means “contended form of life” which you can see during your Goa travel.

The Portuguese influence on Goan food has created some iconic dishes like the Vindaloo and Sorpotel which are now known and loved all over India. The Portuguese influence further extends into the art and music of the region. Goa also celebrates all the Indian festivals like Shimgo, Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi. It also celebrates the Mardi-Gras-inspired Goa Carnival with equal fervour and passion.

Language Spoken

Konkani, English and Hindi

Currency used:

Indian Rupee

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Recommended Holidays

Goa tourism offers a variety of experiences to all sorts of travellers. Travellers can explore the oft-unexplored interiors of Goa which are as beautiful as the better-known coast. Goa has 10,000-year-old rock carvings and a thriving bird sanctuary that hosts winged guests from other countries during their migration. You can also get up and close to Dolphins Indo – Pacific Humpback dolphins and shy Finless Porpoises in their natural habitat.

In Goa, you can indulge your James Bond fantasies at a casino or simply enjoy an evening walk on the Mandovi Promenade. Soak in a bit of culture at the Kala Academy or explore Goa’s rich history at the Goa museum. You can also walk amidst Goa’s history at the old Latin quarter in Fontainhas as you take in the quaint colourful houses with terracotta roofs.

Then there are the beaches in Goa . They are at the heart of Goa’s tourism experience. The parties and pubs at Baga are a stark contrast to the serenity at Mendrem beach. You can enjoy with your family at Calangute beach or get some unexpected bargains at the weekly market in Anjuna. No matter which goa beach you visit, every one of them will give you a different taste of Goa.

In addition to the beaches, Goa is also home to some grand old forts which have withstood the ravages of time to offer a peek into the life back in the days. And you can build an entire itinerary out of temples and churches in Goa. One interesting aspect of the temples in Goa is that the Portuguese influence has even made its way into the architecture. Goa tourist places showcase the distinct Portugese influence on its architecture and layouts which are seen across all places of worship.

No matter what kind of an experience you are looking for, Goa will fulfil your expectations – from spiritual pursuits to the hedonistic indulgences of the carnival. SOTC has some excellent  Goa tour packages  to take you to Goa. Book yours today and create memories in this beautiful land of sun and holidays.

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Start Your Goa Adventure Today!

Join us in celebrating the spirit of Goa – a place where relaxation meets adventure, where tradition blends seamlessly with modernity, and where every moment is an opportunity to create memories that last a lifetime.

Discover Goa’s captivating beauty and vibrant culture. From its golden beaches to its historic forts and mouthwatering cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this coastal paradise. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Goa has it all. Start your journey today and let Goa’s charm and warmth embrace you.

Practical Tips for a Memorable Goa Tour

• Book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season.
• Respect the local culture and traditions, especially while visiting religious sites.
• Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and carry insect repellent, especially during outdoor activities.
• Bargain politely while shopping in local markets.
• Opt for cashless transactions for

Why Choose Goa Plans?

🌴  Your Goa Guide-  Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Goa Plans is your personalized guide to exploring the rich tapestry of Goa’s beaches, culture, cuisine, and beyond.

📅  Customized Itineraries:  Craft your dream itinerary with our intuitive planning tools. From sun-soaked beaches to cultural landmarks, every moment in Goa can be tailored to your preferences

🍽️  Culinary Delights:  Discover the diverse flavors of Goa’s cuisine. From spicy seafood curries to sweet bebinca, indulge in an array of delectable treats.

🗣️  Local Insights:  Gain insider knowledge from locals and experienced travelers who share their tips, recommendations, and stories, ensuring you have an authentic experience

Places you should Visit

Mangueshi Temple

Portuguese House

Dudhsagar Waterfall

Best time to visit goa.

The allure of Goa as a year-round destination is attributed to its tropical climate, yet specific months hold heightened popularity due to their delightful weather and vibrant ambiance. The zenith of tourist influx encompasses the period from November to February, characterized by pleasantly cool and dry conditions. Conversely, the monsoon stretch spanning June to September imbues the landscape with a lush, verdant allure, forming an opportune juncture for aficionados of nature and economical voyagers to uncover Goa’s treasures.

Ultimately, the optimal juncture to embark on a Goa tour hinges on individual predilections and priorities. For those who revel in exuberant revelries and thrive amidst a dynamic milieu, the winter months, replete with festivals and events, might emerge as the preferred selection. Conversely, should tranquility and an economically prudent escapade be the goals, the off-peak seasons could seamlessly align with such aspirations goa tour.

Adventure Activities in Goa

bungee jumping

Enhance your Goa tour with exhilarating bungee jumping adventures. Discover the ultimate adrenaline rush on your Goa tour

Rev up your Goa tour with jet ski adventures. Glide over pristine waters and experience high-speed thrills on your Goa tour!

Parasailing

Soar to new heights during your Goa tour with parasailing adventures. Experience the ultimate thrill in Goa’s picturesque skies!

Scuba diving

Dive into the beauty of Goa on your tour with scuba diving. Explore vibrant underwater worlds and create unforgettable memories.

Best Things to do on Goa Tour

Beach bliss.

When you think of travel in Goa, pristine beaches come to mind. Baga Beach, a hotspot for travelers, offers vibrant energy, water sports, and delectable seafood. Calangute Beach, nearby, is perfect for thrill-seekers with parasailing and jet-skiing. For a laid-back experience, head to Anjuna Beach, famous for its mesmerizing sunsets and eclectic flea markets.

Cultural Exploration in Old Goa

Delve into Goa’s rich history and culture by exploring Old Goa. Wander through narrow lanes lined with centuries-old Portuguese churches, including the UNESCO-listed Basilica of Bom Jesus. Don’t miss a sensory delight with a spice plantation tour, where you’ll discover the flavors that make Goan cuisine special.

Adventure Amidst Nature and the Western Ghats

Goa’s lush hinterlands offer captivating adventures. Visit Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of India’s tallest, for jungle treks and jeep safaris. Trekking in the Western Ghats provides breathtaking vistas, while the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary offers wildlife safaris.

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Introducing GOA

• Places to visit

Must know facts

• Things to do
• Packages & Recommendations
• Travel Articles

• Calangute Beach 
• Baga Beach 
• Dudhsagar Falls 
• Anjuna Beach 
• Vagator Beach 
• Palolem Beach and many more
• Take a walk at spice plantations
• Walkthrough the dark passages of Goan caves
• Try parasailing at Calangute beach
• Indulge in some water sports
• Go for Island hopping and many more

Places to visit in GOA

See all places to visit.

Calangute beach : Queen of Beaches in Goa

Vagator Beach In Goa

Arambol Beach : Popular Beach in Goa

Miramar beach in Goa

Baga Beach : Popular Beach In North Goa

Candolim Beach : Beach of North Goa

Basilica Of Bom Jesus : Famous Church In Goa

Reis Magos Fort Goa

Dudhsagar Falls

Fort Aguada : Famous Historical Place In Goa

Dona Paula Beach-Beach in Goa

Anjuna Beach : Popular Tourist Beach in Goa

Thalassa : Place You Must Visit During Goa Trip

Things to do in GOA

See all things to do.

Go For Island Hoping In Goa

Experience Flyboarding At Chapora River

Take A Walk Around Spice Plantations In Goa

Try Parasailing At Calangute Beach In Goa

Walk Through The Dark Passages Of Goan Caves

Try Some Culinary Classes During Your Goa Trip

Indulge In Shopping At Anjuna Flea Market

Enjoy Sunset Cruise In Goa

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Places To Visit In Goa

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1. Calangute Beach

10 km from city center 1 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in : North Goa

Calangute is the largest beach in north Goa stretching from Candolim to Baga. It is a hub for tourists and backpackers as it is the perfect place to look for accommodation. It is known for the beach shacks and water sports like parasailing, water surfing, banana ride and jet-skiing.

2. Fort Aguada

6 km from city center 2 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Fort Aguada is a 17th-century Portuguese fort looking out at the confluence of Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea. The crumbling ramparts of the fort stand on the Sinquerim Beach. The highlight of the fort is a lone four-storey lighthouse (which is one-of-its-kind in Asia) and a stunning view of the sunset.

3. Cruise in Goa

1 km from city center 3 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Cruise in Goa allows one to explore the exotic scenery, pristine waters and marvel the breathtaking view of the sunset. There are several types of cruises in Goa ranging from simple evening cruises, elaborate and romantic dinner cruises, backwater cruises, and casino cruises. All of these usually originate from Miramar Beach in Panjim.

4. Water Sports in Goa

26 km from city center 4 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Goa is a haven for water sports like kneeboarding, kite surfing, snorkelling, parasailing, paragliding, diving, and kayaking. The water sports in Goa can be enjoyed at any one of the beaches in the north or the south. You can also engage in your favorite activities through a number of licensed water sports package operators.

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Time to unwind in goa, goa with amazing water sports fun, goa with family and kids, goa - winter special, offbeat tour package: chikmagalur, hampi & more with goa, 5. dudhsagar falls.

52 km from city center 5 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in : South Goa

One of India's tallest waterfalls, the Dudhsagar Falls is located inside the Mollem National Park. The Dudhsagar falls should be visited during the monsoon when it is in full flow and the surrounding deciduous forests are at their verdant best.

6. Anjuna Beach

13 km from city center 6 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Anjuna Beach is among the most popular beaches in North Goa, stretching almost 2km. From family outings to adrenaline-filled adventures, Anjuna Beach is famed for its golden coastline, nightclubs, beach shacks, watersports, full-moon parties and flea markets.

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7. Chapora Fort

16 km from city center 7 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Chapora Fort is undeniably one of the most famous forts in Goa. More popularly known as the 'Dil Chahta Hai Fort', its claim to fame was the 2001 Bollywood blockbuster shot here. A scintillating escape, it offers beautiful views of the sea and Chapora River.

8. Thalassa

15 km from city center 8 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Thalassa- The Greek Taverna is one of the most popular restaurants in Goa. Having moved out to the backwaters along with Siolim (from its prior location of Vagator hilltop), it is famous for its signature cocktails and sunsets. Reverberating with the cultural flavour of Greece, it serves authentic Greek Mediterranean cuisine.

9. Basilica of Bom Jesus

9 km from city center 9 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in : Panaji

The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses the tomb and remains of St. Francis Xavier. Even after 400 years, the remains are in a good condition and are taken out once every decade.

10. Baga Beach

10 km from city center 10 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

One of the most popular beaches in North Goa, Baga Beach is located close to Calangute beach, around 30 Km North of Panjim. It is the perfect destination to witness the dazzling nightlife of Goa as signature places such as Britto's, Tito's and Mambos are located in the vicinity. It is also known for a vast range of water sports.

11. Butterfly Beach

56 km from city center 11 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

A little to the south of Palolem in Canacona region of Goa lies the Butterfly Beach. This beach, also known as Honeymoon Beach, is one of the most secluded and lesser-known beaches of Goa. The beach is mostly accessible by a boat (ferry) ride from the nearby beaches.

12. Divar Island

9 km from city center 12 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Divar Island is a slice of heaven tucked away in dense woods amidst the beauty of nature. Connected to Old Goa only through ferry service, this island is synonymous with natural beauty, serenity and tranquillity.

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Beaches in South Goa For A Perfect Beach Holiday

Scuba Diving In Goa - Price, Location, & Operators

Beautiful Churches of Goa

13. Scuba Diving in Goa

14 km from city center 13 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Goa is one of the few places in India offering scuba diving. Diving in Goa is not the best owing to limited underwater visibility, but it is still popular among tourists as it is a good destination for beginners to explore the delights of the underwater world. The absence of strong water current with occasional surges adds serenity to the activity.

14. Shopping in Goa

2 km from city center 14 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

For carrying back an authentic Goan experience with you, you can buy some feni, cashew-nuts, Goan hats and handicrafts. There are lots of shops in Panjim, the capital where you can buy interesting stuff. Goa is also known for its hand-painted ceramics.

15. Dona Paula

5 km from city center 15 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Dona Paula is one of the most popular tourist hangouts in Goa famous for its vast stretch of beach. The small beach is also popular as the Lover's Paradise and features a jetty (Dona Paula Jetty) adjacent to it, which provides an ethereal view of the Arabian Sea and Mormugao harbour.

16. Arambol Beach

25 km from city center 16 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Beautiful and serene, Arambol Beach is among the best beaches of North Goa and is relatively unexploited by tourist activities. Considered to be one of the most spectacular beaches in Goa, Arambol beach has a distinct Bohemian feel to it, which attracts tourists from all over the world.

17. Vagator Beach

15 km from city center 17 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Vagator beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. It is famous for its soft white sands and imposing but beautiful rocky cliffs. The beach is divided into two major parts, namely Little Vagator, also known as Ozran Beach, and Big Vagator. It is also popular for its sweeping panoramic views, beach shacks and trance parties.

18. Fontainhas and Sao Tome

0 km from city center 18 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Fontainhas and Sao Tome is a beautiful Latin Quarter located in Panaji on the banks of the Ourem Creek and named after the natural springs nearby. It was laid out on a piece of land acquired by a Goan in the 18th century who had made a fortune in Mozambique. The quarter is now recognised as a heritage site and is famous for its charming Portuguese style houses on the base of the Altinho hills.

19. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

0 km from city center 19 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in Panjim, Our Lady of Immaculate Conception is one of the oldest chapels in Goa. It is known to house the second largest church bells in Goa. The view of the sunset and the church lit up at night is a soothing sight to witness.

20. Tito's Nightclub

10 km from city center 20 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Titos nightclub is one of the top things to do in Goa for most tourists. Located in Calangute, Tito's is one of the most famous nightclubs in Goa. The entire lane in Baga, where the pub is located is popularly called Tito lane. 

21. Brittos

11 km from city center 21 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Be it during the season or off-season, you cannot NOT come here if you're in Goa. It is amongst the best shacks in Baga Beach and is just perfect if you're seeking the company of the sea and the sand while you sip on that beer. 

10 km from city center 22 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in the famous Titos lane, Mambos is a popular nightclub in Goa. The open-air lounge encircles a dancing area with a host of Indian and international DJs playing every night. They also serve a variety of Hookahs.

23. Club LPK - Love Passion Karma

5 km from city center 23 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Club LPK is one of the most popular nightlife spots in Goa. Surrounded by water on three sides, it was shifted to Nerul from its original location. The nightclub has generally some good DJs playing a mix of house, trance, and Bollywood music.

24. Anjuna Flea Market

12 km from city center 24 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Anjuna Flea Market on Wednesday is a treasure trove of trinkets, handicrafts, hippie clothing, souvenirs and everything else from cheap bags to footwear and junk jewellery. Also popular as the queen of hippie flea markets, the Anjuna Flea Market as much a part of the Goa experience as the beaches.

25. Palolem Beach

58 km from city center 25 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Palolem Beach, located in the South Goa is one of the most beautiful beaches of the Union Territory has to offer. Mostly unspoiled, the beach is often flocked with foreign tourists.

26. Bungee Jumping in Goa

56 km from city center 26 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located near one of the most popular beaches in Goa that is obviously Anjuna Beach, the Gravity Adventure Zone conduct Bungee Jumping from a height of 80 ft and has been installed by a US based company- Sports tower Inc. It is one of the lowest Bungee jumping site and is good for a first try and is priced at a reasonable rate.

27. Spa and Massages

8 km from city center 27 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Goa is full of spa resorts and Ayurvedic massage centers. Beachside massages are also available at some beaches. Various spas of Goa which are preferred by the tourists from all around the world are Sereno Spa and Leela Kempinski Goa Spa Center.

28. Colva Beach

26 km from city center 28 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in : Madgaon

One of the most happening beaches in South Goa, Colva beach is mainly renowned for its shopping and phenomenal nightlife. The beach is full of shacks and eating joints.

29. Morjim Beach

18 km from city center 29 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Morjim is sometimes referred to as "Little Russia" owing to the large population of Russian immigrants staying here. Morjim beach is home to exotic species of birds and some rare endangered animals such as sea turtles.

0 km from city center 30 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located on a yacht in River Mandovi, the casino is one of the coolest places to be when you're in the party state. The entry fee is placed high at Rs. 1600, and the casino holds ample number of tables of American Roulette, Blackjack and Rummy. Go ahead and try your luck!

31. Agonda Beach

53 km from city center 31 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

If you're looking for a place away from the hustle bustle of the crowd with more space and solitude, Agonda beach is the right place for you. With the clear blue water and coconut trees, this beach is a delight for nature lovers.

32. Candolim Beach

7 km from city center 32 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Candolim Beach lies around 15 kms ahead of Panjim, along the stretch of Fort Aguada. Forming a part of the trio of Calangute, Baga and Candolim party beaches in Goa, this beach is known for its pulsating nightlife and thrilling water sports.

33. Se Cathedral

9 km from city center 33 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Se Cathedral, or Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina, is one of the largest churches in Asia. Located in Old Goa, it is dedicated to Saint Catherine. It is a famous landmark in Goa exhibiting Portuguese-Manueline architectural style.

34. Cavelossim Beach

38 km from city center 34 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

With magnificent black rocks that contrast with the white sand shores of this idyllic beach, the Cavelossim Beach is located in South Goa. Cleaner and quieter than the cliched party beaches of Goa, it is the perfect spot for travellers looking to enjoy the endless expanse of the clear blue waters. 

35. Patnem Beach

60 km from city center 35 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Situated in Canacona, South Goa, Patnem Beach is one of the most secluded and tranquil beaches of Goa. It is the perfect place to laze by the beach and do absolutely nothing. The waters are quite safe to swim in, and the views of the sunset are magnificent and uninterrupted.

36. Betalbatim Beach

24 km from city center 36 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in South Goa between Colva Beach and Majorda Beach, Betalbatim Beach is one of the quieter beaches of Goa. Lined with a plethora of fast food chains, local restaurants and spas, the highlight of the beach is the easy spotting of the dolphins. You can ask the local fishermen who can hike you a ride in a sea to have a glimpse of the dolphins.

37. Fort Tiracol

29 km from city center 37 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Across the Terekhol river from the Querim beach in North Goa lies the majestic Tiracol Fort. Once a crucial part of the maritime defence, it now serves as Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel. It is popular for an unbeatable panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.

38. Grande Island

17 km from city center 38 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Originally known as Iha Grande, Grande Island in Goa is one of the most sought after destinations, owing to its serene and tranquil environment and the availability of a plethora of thrilling activities like snorkeling, dolphin spotting, and scuba diving.

39. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

53 km from city center 39 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary is a 240 sq km protected natural habitat located in the Western Ghats of India, on the Goa-Karnataka border. Touted to be Goa's largest wildlife reserve, it is home to the famous Dudhsagar Falls, Mollem National Park, Tambdi Surla Temple, and Devil's Canyon among other attractions.

40. Arvalem Waterfalls

22 km from city center 40 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

One of the most beautiful spots to visit in North Goa, Arvalem Waterfalls is located in Sanquelim. Also known as Harvalem Falls, it forms a huge pool of water at its base - almost as big as a lake. This makes Arvalem Falls a popular tourist and picnic spot. 

41. Mollem National Park

41 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Mollem National Park part of the famous Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is the biggest national park in Goa that takes you on a fascinating wildlife adventure. Jeep safaris take the tourists right into the heart of the dense forest reserve.

42. Sunburn Festival

14 km from city center 42 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Ranked amongst few of the world’s best music festivals, Sunburn Music Festival tops the list of every Electronic Music fan’s bucket list. It is mostly famous for its extravagance, fantastic music and noteworthy artist line-up.

43. Carnival in Goa

43 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

The Goa Carnival is a legacy of the Portuguese rule and has grown from being a quiet event to a popular, massive scale festival, attracting thousands of tourists from India and abroad. One of the most awaited occasions in the state, the carnival has a long history of its origin, stretching back right to the ancient Roman Empire. The atmosphere is charged with spectacular parades, dances, musical events and the great food, all of which are major crowd pullers. Festivities occur in the cities of Panjim, Mapusa, Margao, and Vasco da Gama, with Panjim having it the largest of all

44. Church of St. Cajetan

9 km from city center 44 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

The Church of Saint Cajetan, located in Old Goa close to the Se Cathedral, is one of the most beautiful churches in Goa. The only surviving domed structure in Goa, the church is admired for its wonderful and graceful architecture that reminds you of Basilica of St. Peter in Rome.

45. Bambolim Beach

6 km from city center 45 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Bambolim Beach is a pristine beach located in Bambolim in North Goa, 7 kilometres away from Panjim. It is famous for being a virgin beach, untouched by commercialization and is barely ever crowded. 

46. Butterfly Conservatory Of Goa

21 km from city center 46 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

The Butterfly Conservatory of Goa is a butterfly sanctuary and garden in the Ponda district of Goa. Spread over 4000 square metres, it is designed as a place to stroll and absorb in the serene beauty of nature. In the vast expanses of the garden, one can take a leisurely walk and observe over a hundred different species of butterflies from close quarters.

47. Sri Mahadeva Temple

46 km from city center 47 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Sri Mahadeva Temple, Tambdi Surla is one of the oldest temples in Goa to Lord Shiva. The inner sanctum of temple has a Shiva Linga mounted on a raised pedestal. There is also a statue of headless Nandi. The locals believe that there is a huge king cobra permanently sitting near the Shiva Linga.

48. Church of St Francis of Assisi

9 km from city center 48 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Church of St Francis of Assisi is a 16th-century Portuguese church located near Se Cathedral in Goa. It is a famous landmark which exhibits an eclectic mix of stunning architecture and intricate carvings. 

49. Cabo de Rama Beach

45 km from city center 49 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Cabo de Rama Beach is a beautiful secluded beach located in Margao, South Goa. Surrounded by tall coconut trees, this beach is perfect for setting up a picnic, playing volleyball, or just spending some quality time. 

50. Church Of St Augustine

8 km from city center 50 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Church Of St. Augustine is a ruined church complex which was once the biggest church in Goa. Located near Nunnery of Santa Monica in Old Goa, there stands a solo tower (called St Augustine Tower) out of the four towers once forming the Church Of St. Augustine. 

51. Savoi Spice Plantation

19 km from city center 51 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Savoi Spice Plantation is a 40-hectare organic farm located 15km from Ponda. Established by Mr Shetye, the beautifully maintained farm is popular for the guided tour of the intercrop plantation and the Goan Saraswat Buffet at its Sadauli Restaurant.

52. Ashwem Beach

20 km from city center 52 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Ashwem Beach is one of the few beaches left in Goa that is yet to be discovered by the mainstream tourist crowd of Goa, offering its visitors an endless expanse of pearly white sands complemented well by the beautiful waves of the Arabian Sea. Surfing and Yoga are widely practised here.

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Goa Tourism and Travel Guide

Plan your goa trip with tripoto.

Best Time to Visit Goa

The best time to visit Goa is during the winter months from November to February . The weather is pleasant, cool, and perfect for beach activities and sightseeing, making it the peak tourist season with vibrant nightlife and various festivals

Winters in Goa (November to February) are pleasant, cool, and comfortable.

• Activities:  Ideal for beach activities, water sports, nightlife, and attending festivals like Sunburn and New Year celebrations.
• Cons:  Crowded and more expensive due to peak tourist season

Monsoon in Goa (June to September) is wet and lush, with moderate to heavy rains.

• Activities:  Ideal for enjoying the lush green landscape, waterfalls like Dudhsagar, and various monsoon festivals. Less crowded beaches offer a different, tranquil experience.
• Cons:  Water sports and swimming are usually not available due to safety concerns

Summers in Goa (March to May)  are hot and humid.

• Activities:  Not the best time for outdoor activities due to high temperatures, but beaches and nightlife are still accessible. Discounts on accommodation and flights are common.
• Cons:  Very hot and humid, which can be uncomfortable for some tourists

Top Places to Visit in Goa

Ranked according to popularity in Tripoto community

Best Beaches In Goa

Read Tripoto Editorial Team's comprehensive guides to the top beaches in Goa

Top Hotels in Goa

Our recommendations for best hotels, homestays and resorts in Goa.

Recommended Goa Itineraries

Unique Experiences in Goa

Explore itineraries from top Tripoto travellers

Best Restaurants in Goa

Virtual Goa Tour: Pictures & Videos

These top-rated photo-blogs and videos will transport you to Goa's serene beaches, without leaving your home! Take a trip to the party capital of India through these mesmerising shots!

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Budget for Goa

For Budget Travellers: INR 600 - 1200 a day

• Accommodation in hostels and guesthouses: INR 200 - 800 (up to INR 1200 in peak season)
• Food in beach shacks and street eateries: INR 200 - 400
• Public Transport in buses and autorickshaws: INR 8 - 40
• Motorbike rentals: INR 200 - 400
• Sightseeing (museums etc): INR 10 - 50

For Mid-range Travellers: INR 1000 to INR 3000 a day

• Accommodation in mid-range hotels and resorts: INR 600 - 2000
• Food in mid-range cafes and restaurants: INR 400 - 700
• Local transport in local taxis or car rentals: INR 400 - 600
• Snorkelling and Diving packages: INR 1500 and upwards

For Luxury Travellers: INR 6000 and upwards

• Accommodation in 4* or 5* hotels: INR 4000 and upwards
• Food in upscale restaurants and bars: INR 1000 and upwards
• Local transport in cabs: INR 400 and upwards
• Sightseeing of Goa tourism, Guided Tours, Kayaking: INR 1000 and upwards

Top Attractions in Goa

The land of sand, surf, and sunshine has been a favourite among travellers from around the world for quite some time. There is nowhere in India quite like it.  Goa tourism is the primary source of income for residents of Goa. Not just domestic tourists, Goa is visited by tourists from all over the world. Since Goa tourism focuses on its pristine beaches, local shacks and delicious cuisine, you’ll find lots of things to keep you busy in Goa. Besides the beaches, you can explore the city’s churches, marvellous forts and museums which equally contribute to the growing popularity of Goa tourism. Good food is another thing that majorly contributed to Goa tourism. The blend of Indian and Portuguese influences is reflected in the architectural marvels of Goa tourism.

North Goa  is the most famous area of Goa tourism. Known for its energetic nightlife, Goan delicacies, flea markets, crowded beaches, and shacks, North Goa tops the list. Apart from the enthusiastic crowd and pretty shacks, North Goa beaches are also famous for different water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. North Goa is the happy place of Goa as it offers you a variety of things to do and a lot of different places to see apart from just lazing around the beaches. It offers something for everyone and has been the driving force for Goa tourism.

South Goa  is the other half of Goa that offers a tranquil atmosphere to its tourists. It is filled with appealing beaches, less crowded than the beaches in North Goa . It is a perfect area for a relaxing vacation. Though South Goa tourism doesn’t offer as much as the places in North Goa do, its calmness and peaceful vibes will make up for everything.  South Goa beaches are much whiter and cleaner than the beaches in North Goa and Goa tourism has gradually picked up here. Cotigao wildlife sanctuary, Cabo de Rama Fort and Dudhsagar falls are some of the must-visit places in South Goa . Some of the best beaches in South Goa are: Agonda Beach , Patnem Beach , Palolem Beach , Cola Beach , Galgibaga Beach , Cavelossim Beach , Betalbatim Beach .  

Read this article  for more info on North Goa vs South Goa.

Offbeat Places in Goa

Apart from the stunning beaches, there are a lot of  things to see in Goa tourism such as its heritage, sightseeing attractions, nature & parks, dolphin watching tours, architecture & museums, wildlife & bird sanctuaries. These are the major tourist attractions in Goa and the topmost contributors to Goa tourism. Opt for a HOHO tour for a comfortable and enjoyable sightseeing experience of Goa tourism. Make sure you visit the beautiful Chorla Ghats located at the border of Goa, filled with Tropical Forests. The ‘hill station’ feel will definitely make you forget the beaches. Also, explore Querim beach, Bird Sanctuary, Harvalem Falls, Naval Aviation Museum, Museum of Goa, Arvalem Caves, and Our Lady of the Mount are some of the recommendations by Goa tourism.

Best Places to Eat in Goa

One of the most popular elements of Goa tourism is the  local cuisine in the state. Try some lip-smacking delicacies at The Black Sheep Bistro, Zaffran, Purple Martini, Martin’s Corner, Antares and Pousada by the Beach. Some of the  best places to try Goan cuisine are The Fisherman’s Wharf, Kokni Kanteen, Viva Panjim and The Lazy Goose. Don’t forget to have some mouth-licking desserts at Maracas, Porvorim, Iceberg, Margao, Marc Brown Corner, Panjim and Brittos, Baga.

Where to Do Water Activities in Goa

One of the biggest attractions for Goa tourism is the plethora of water sports offered in the state. The most popular beach in Goa for water sports are - Calangute Beach, Candolim Beach, Baga Beach, and Sinquerim Beach.

Beaches in Goa are the major tourist attractions of Goa tourism and the most beautiful beaches in India. Not just the beauty, they top the list in terms of other things like thrilling water sports, relaxing beach shacks, quality time with friends and family and exotic food. Another good thing about these beaches is, they offer you something new every time you visit Goa.

The most popular beaches in Goa are Baga, Anjuna, Calangute and Candolim. Since Goa tourism is more developed for mainstream tourists in North Goa, the beaches here are more crowded. You can opt for Parasailing at Calangute Beach, Banana Boat Ride at Baga Beach, skiing at Calangute Beach, Snorkeling & Scuba Diving at Grande Island, Kayaking at Aguada River, Flyboarding at Vagator Beach and Speed Boating at Calangute Beach.

Things to Do in Goa

Listed below are some of the Goa tourism things you can try :

Enjoy Goa’s nightlife at Tito’s at Baga, Curlies at Anjuna, Brittos at Baga, Thalassa near Vagator Beach, Monkey Valley at Chapora.

Experience water sports- Scuba Diving, Parasailing, Jet Skiing, Banana Boat Ride, Snorkeling in Goa.

Goa attractions: The efforts of Goa tourism has led to an increasing number of tourists every year who wish to explore the city for its food, beaches, shacks, water sports, forts and flea markets. Contributing to Goa tourism in North Goa are attractions such as Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Calangute Beach, Vagator Beach, Fort Aguada and Club LPK whereas major  South Goa attractions include Colva Beach, Benaulim Beach, Agonda and Dudhsagar Falls. The main things to do in Goa are water sports, two-wheeler ride, trying your luck at the casinos located on Mandovi River and sightseeing.

Goa adventure: One of the main things and the biggest contributor to Goa tourism is water sports. For all the  adventure lovers out there, in India, Goa is the best option to experience water sports activities. With beautiful views, plenty of expansive seas with golden sand and fancy shacks, indulge in water sports activities like parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat, scuba diving, snorkelling, and windsurfing on Goa beaches. Other than water sports, Goa also offers many other adventure options like hiking, trekking, crab catching, dolphin spotting, cycling, etc.

Goa nightlife: No one should miss Goa’s nightlife . The clubs and shacks here offer live performances and it’s a major draw for tourists from around the world who are contributing to Goa tourism. In fact, nightlife in Goa has played a huge role in making Goa tourism popular among Indian as well as foreign travellers. Party in Goa at these happening places- Curlies, LPK Waterfront, Hill Top, Tito’s lane, SinQ, Bora Bora, Chronicle, La Calypso’s Club Blue, Café Lilliput, Leopard Valley and Shiva Valley. Visit these clubs in a group to make the most of Goa parties.

When we talk about nightlife in Goa, the first thing that our mind processes is, partying at the pubs. Yes, it is one of the craziest and happening things to be done in Goa, but you will be surprised to hear that Goa nightlife has much more to offer you. If you want to spend some time under the sky, gazing at the stars with your loved ones, then go camping in floating tents to experience the quieter and calmer environment. Another interesting thing included in Goa tourism is just to have a bonfire with your people on the beaches if you want to avoid loud music. Some of the other options include silent party, theatre shows, Goa on wheels and flea markets.

Where to Stay in Goa

Goa travel suitable for family, friends, couples and honeymooners.

Confused about ‘ where to stay in Goa ?’ Goa has a variety of options for accommodation like hotels, apartments and villas. But apart from these places, Goa has the best beach resorts in India. Also, you can choose a resort as per your budget as Goa has a resort range starting from 5-star resorts to normal resorts. The 5 star and 4-star resorts in Goa offer a lot of facilities like beachfront, swimming pool, wifi, airport shuttle, bar, family rooms and complimentary breakfast whereas the other resorts in Goa offer basic facilities.

Owing to an increase in Goa tourism, the state now has all categories of hotels, from luxury to mid-range to budget hotels. Choose a hotel that fits your budget the best. Most of the luxury hotels in Goa usually provide Wi-Fi, parking, airport shuttle, air-conditioned rooms, swimming pool, breakfast, free parking, spa and wellness centre, bar whereas, in mid-range hotels, you might not get all these facilities. You can also plan a stay at 5 star or 4-star resorts in Goa if you don’t want to stay at a regular hotel.

Find the  best hand-picked budget hotels in Goa and travel smart on this vacation. Spend your beachside vacation at budget hotels in Goa and stay without a dent in your wallet. Located at some of the most exotic locations, these budget hotels in Goa could be your smart pick for the next vacation.

Travelling with family or a group of friends and want an independent stay? A homestay has become a good option for travellers and has also led to an increase in Goa tourism. If you choose a homestay, you have the whole apartment or flat to yourself. You can cook, party, chill and do whatever you want to, keeping in mind the norms defined by the owner. Some of the  top homestays in Goa are Bella Villa, Blue Balloon and Holiday Star Home. Most of these homes are well equipped with furniture, tv, utensils, balcony, swimming pool, refrigerator, induction, microwave and also, housekeeping facilities.

Hanging out with friends or travelling solo? Goa introduces you with an irresistible option. Catering to its budget travellers, Goa tourism has tons of budget options . There are a lot of good hostels in Goa like Jungle, Summer and Happy Panda. There are dorms as well as separate rooms in these hostels. You can choose a room according to your needs as most of the hostels have single, double sharing and triple sharing rooms. If you plan to stay in dorm then you get to meet and interact with other people as there are many people from different places staying in a dorm. Also, staying in a dorm is a cheaper option if you are looking for a budget trip. The hostels in Goa, India are made as per the needs of the tourists.

The best area to stay in Goa is Baga in North Goa, whereas you should opt for Benaulim in South Goa if you want to avoid crowds.

Best resorts in Goa:

• 5-star resorts in Goa- Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Leela, Seashell Suites and Villas
• 4-star resorts in Goa- MamaGoa Resort, and Amour Resort

Hotels in Goa, India:

• Good beach hotels in Goa- Grand Hyatt, and The Park Calangute
• Top hotels in Goa - Vivanta Goa and The Diwa Club

Hostels in Goa, India:

• Top hostels in Goa- Craft Hostels, Footloose Hostel and Woke Hostel
• Budget hostels in Goa- Rainbow Lining Hostels and Sturmfrei Hostel

Homestays in Goa, India:

• Boutique homestays in Goa- Villa La Gitana, and Villa De Arte
• Top homestays in Goa- Olaulim Backyards and Casa Menezes

How to Travel to Goa

Goa Airport: Goa Airport or Dabolim Airport (GOI) is the airport in Goa.

Flights to Goa: Goa tourism aims to make travelling easier for visitors. There is flight connectivity from almost all the cities in India to Goa that maintain Goa’s tourism.

Goa Railway Station: There are several railway stations in Goa like Canacona, Karmali, Kulem, Madgaon, Pernem, Sanvordem Curchorem, Thivim and Vasco da Gama.

Trains to Goa: Visit Goa through train if you want to have a budget Goa tour visit as there is train connectivity from almost all the cities to Goa.

Goa Bus Station: Goa has many bus stations. The major Goa bus stations are Panjim, Margao and Mapusa bus station.

Buses to Goa: If you want to visit Goa by road, there are frequent buses to Goa from several nearby cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad.

Written by  Ishita Ralhan , an in-house Tripoto writer.  Not one to say no to road trips, Ishita enjoys coffee, shoes and good company. When she’s not writing, you can find her dancing or swimming.  Follow her to ignite your wanderlust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Goa airport is in the South of Goa. Panjim is approximately 30 km away from Goa airport. When you arrive at Goa airport, you can board a taxi or book one instantly from the Goa tourism taxi counter outside the airport. Taking a taxi is slightly expensive but hassle-free. Or, walk your way to the bus junction near Goa airport and board a bus to Vasco Bus Terminus. From there, take a shuttle to Panjim. This route will cost you less but is tiring.

Located in the tropical zone, Goa witnesses a warm and humid climate during the major part of the year. With very little variation in the basic seasonal weather, average Goa temperature is 26°C to 29°C. The sky remains clear during mid-March. However, the days are hot and humidity increases as we enter the month of April. May is the hottest month in Goa and Goa tourism is at an all-time low. June marks the onset of Monsoon season and Goa receives heavy rainfall during July and August. Goa temperature has major fluctuations during August, and humidity rises to 90%. The temperature becomes pleasant as September ends, with clear skies on the onset of October. October has dry and warm weather with relatively lesser humidity. Winter in Goa begins from late November and last till February, this season is favourable for Goa tourism. The nights are cooler and Goa temperature drops down to 20°C during winters. Best time to visit Goa is between November to March, when Goa temperature is balmy and cool for exploring Goa city.

Most of the part of Goa city is well-connected by roads. Thus, hiring a taxi or self-drive cars is good for getting around Goa. You can hire a taxi from Goa tourism taxi counters at Goa airport and railway station. Getting around Goa on a motorbike or scooty is also a reliable choice. This is one of the most economical ways to tour the Goa city at your leisure. Carry your Identification proof for hiring a self-drive car, scooty or motorbike.

Goa is a popular tourist destination in India. If you are wondering fabout what to see in Goa, you should know that there are an endless number of things to see in Goa. Some of the best Goa attractions are Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, and Candolim Beach - all of which are integral parts of Goa tourism. If you have time and want to know what to see in Goa, you can visit Arambol Beach, Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort, Vagator Beach, Colva Beach, and Vasco. In case you want to know other things to see in Goa, you can check out our 'Places to Visit in Goa' section. Must go places in Goa include enjoying nightlife at Baga and Candolim, and casinos on River Mandovi. Some of the best tourist places in Goa are in North Goa, so, stay in North Goa if you want to stay near touristy areas. However, if you want to experience the calmness and peace of the city, you should visit South Goa. There are endless Goa travel places and Tripoto's travel guide can help you plan a suitable trip.

Apart from beach and party galore, Goa tourism offers some of the best beach shacks for foodies. If you're looking for north Indian and continental cuisine, then you must visit Curlies at Anjuna, Brittos at Baga, Villa Blanche at Vagator, Café Chocolatti at Candolim, and Martin's Corner at Betalbatim in Goa. Try out French cuisine at La Plage at Ashwem. While in Goa city, you should also visit Thalassa at Siolim, Sublime at Assagao, and Bean Me Up at Vagator for Chinese, and Mediterranean food along with salads. For the best seafood and traditional Goan cuisine, visit Cape Town Café at Baga Goa beach. You can check out Goa's map to locate these Goa beach shacks to satiate your stomach when in Goa city.

Goa Tourism is growing with the help of reliable tour operators. We have shortlisted these top tour operators for the best places to visit in Goa and things to do in Goa. HOHO Goa - 7447473495, Goa Darshan Tour & Travels - 9689189615 and Sunny Holidays Goa - 9326555333 

Goa has a lot of stunning places that you must visit on your trip to Goa. If you are wondering about the best places to visit in Goa, then you must explore Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, Candolim Beach, Vagator Beach, Sinquerim Beach and Anjuna Beach. These beaches are known for their breathtaking vistas and a huge number of shacks which serve lip-smacking Goan cuisine. Parties are also held at these beaches frequently, and world-renowned DJs become a party of those psychedelic nights. These parties are among the best things to see in goa and have given a boost to Goa tourism. If you like natural landscapes and would like to know what to see in Goa, you can visit Dudhsagar Falls, Harvalem Falls, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Some of the lesser-known spots contribute to off-beat Goa tourism and add to the state’s popularity. If you are a history lover, we have a list for you regarding where to go in Goa. You can get acquainted with the Portugal influences by visiting tourist attractions in Goa like Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort and Cabo de Rama. You can go on a shopping spree at Anjuna Flea Market. Experience the religious fervour in Goa by visiting the best tourist places in Goa like Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral and Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church.

Goa has 3 main places - North Goa, South Goa, and Panjim, consisting of various types of accommodation options for different types of travellers. In fact owing to the growing popularity of Goa tourism, now travellers can choose anything from high-end to budget options. Also, your purpose of stay in Goa will help you choose the best places to stay in Goa. If you're looking for a vibrant Goa beach experience, then North Goa is a good choice. Panjim will offer you a cultural touch along with various water sports. If you wish to relax and spend time peacefully, then South Goa is the place for you. Thirdly, if you're travelling with a group, then you can look for homestays and villas in Goa city. This will help you to save money and enjoy the trip at your leisure. Furthermore, the duration of your trip also affects the choice of the best places to stay in Goa city. Based on these factors, you can figure out where to stay in Goa. You can look out for hostels if you're travelling for more days with less number of people. Check out the detailed information on best hotels in Goa at Tripoto that will definitely help your purpose.

Holiday Inn, Goa is a famous beach hotel in Goa located near Mobor Beach in Cavelossim at Salcette. Holiday Inn is one of the best goa tourism hotels and is listed amongst the top hotels in Goa city. This hotel in Goa also offers a non-alcoholic welcome drink for greeting the travellers. Some of the activities at Holiday Inn includes Aqua Zorbing, Pool Table, Lawn Tennis, Table Tennis and more. Facilities and amenities offered by Holiday Inn, Goa provides access to swimming pool, well-equipped gym area, luggage room facility, safe deposit locker in the room, Wi-Fi and more. Being one of the best places to stay in Goa, Holiday Inn is a disabled friendly hotel that provides wheelchairs for disabled people.

Goa tourism offers a wide number of experiences for travellers visiting Goa city. Check out this list of the best places to visit in Goa and things to do in Goa. Visit Calangute beach, explore history of Fort Aguada, try out Deltin Royale Casino, discover the famous fort: Chapora Fort, explore Basilica of Bom Jesus, visit Pandava Caves and Arvalem Waterfall, seek divine at Mangeshi Temple, witness natural beauty at Dudhsagar Falls, take sunbath at Ashwem & Arossim Beach and shop at Arpora Night Market.

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