During winters, finding accommodation in Goa can be a bit challenging, so it’s advisable to book hotels well in advance before planning a trip to Goa. We had a great time in Goa and below I am providing information about some of the places worth seeing-
➥North Goa
North Goa is famous for parties and nightlife. It is vibrant with glitz, glamour, and music. From evening till late night, people of all ages, especially youth, can be seen enjoying and partying. Here are some noteworthy places to see in North Goa –
➢Beautiful Beaches
North Goa boasts some incredibly beautiful beaches including Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Arambol Beach, and Calangute Beach etc. Each beach has its own unique characteristics.
Baga Beach: As evening sets in at Baga Beach, a party-like atmosphere begins that continues late into the night. This beach is famous for its beauty and vibrant nightlife. Numerous shack-clubs line the beach where you can enjoy delicious seafood, various drinks, and dance on the dance floors. Visiting Baga Beach in the evening is highly recommended.
Anjuna Beach: Anjuna Beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs that enhance its beauty. There’s a nearby market where you can go shopping. Mornings are the best time to visit as the sunrise enhances the beach’s charm manifold.
Arambol Beach: Known for its tranquility, Arambol Beach is popular among tourists. There’s a sweet water lake nearby where you can take a leisurely walk. The sunset at Arambol Beach is spectacular, attracting a good number of foreign tourists as well.
Calangute Beach: Calangute Beach is Goa’s longest beach and a hub for both yoga enthusiasts and commercial activities. It’s a great choice for water sports enthusiasts.
In addition, Vagator Beach, Candolim Beach and Morjim Beach are also excellent and pristine beaches in Goa.
➢Famous Clubs, Bars, Restaurants & Night Life
Goa is renowned worldwide for its vibrant nightlife. Especially in North Goa around Baga Beach, there are numerous nightclubs and bars. People from all over the world come to these clubs to enjoy music, dance, and festivities. Tito’s Club, located on Tito’s Lane, is the oldest and most famous club. It is always crowded, so if you plan to visit, it’s advisable to book tickets online in advance.
Near Vagator Beach, I really liked the restaurant ‘Olive Bar and Kitchen’. Sitting here and enjoying pizza while watching the sunset was truly wonderful.
Additionally, in North Goa, the very famous bar and restaurant ‘Thalassa’ is also a great place. During the evening, there are laser shows, dance shows, and light shows here. The ambiance is very pleasant. Thalassa is a recommended place for couples visiting Goa.
➢ Casino, Gaming & Entertainment Cruise
In Panaji, the capital of Goa, near the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea, there are well-known places for large cruise casino, gaming, and entertainment. These cruises do not sail in the sea but remain stationary. There is a lot of crowd during the evening here. Visitors board these cruises via small boats. There is a dress code for men here. These cruises are filled with glitz and glamour, featuring dance shows for entertainment. Inside the cruise, a variety of dishes are served for dinner. Prominent cruises include Royal Deltin, Majestic Pride, and others.
➢ Aguada Fort & Aguada Light House
Located south of Candolim Beach and along the banks of the Mandovi River, Aguada Fort was constructed in the 17th century by the Portuguese. Its primary purpose was to defend Goa against Dutch invaders. The fort also houses a large lighthouse, which was used to guide ships coming from Europe.
The view of the sea from here is exceptionally beautiful. It is advisable to visit during the morning or evening in the hot seasons, as the open surroundings and sparse vegetation can make it quite sunny.
➢ Chapora Fort
Chapora Fort, made famous by the superhit Bollywood film “Dil Chahta Hai” starring Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna, and Saif Ali Khan, is a popular spot among travelers to Goa, especially young adults. Perched atop a hill, the fort offers a splendid view of the sea. Visitors often come here to witness the sunset.
➢ Basilica of Bom Jesus
Located in Old Goa, the former capital of Portuguese India, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is a renowned church. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Construction of the church began in 1594 and was completed around 1605 by the Portuguese. The architecture of the basilica is highly impressive. It houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
➢ Se Cathedral
Located directly opposite the Basilica of Bom Jesus, the Se Cathedral is another noteworthy Christian site. Its tower houses a large bell known as the Golden Bell. I found this church to be very grand. The walls are adorned with numerous paintings related to Christianity.
In addition to these, water sports such as parasailing, banana ride, and jet ski adventure attract enthusiasts towards North Goa beaches.
➥South Goa
Where North Goa thrives with parties and bustling tourists, South Goa is renowned for its serene coastal stretches. The ambiance here is perfect for spending holidays in tranquility and mental peace. While North Goa is known for its street food and markets, South Goa is more popular for its peaceful resorts. Both North and South Goa are good places, catering to different tastes. Compared to North Goa, South Goa is more lush green.
Here are some details about some famous places in South Goa-
➢Palolem Beach
Palolem Beach is the largest beach in South Goa. It is located approximately 70 kilometers from Panaji. Situated south of Cola Beach, Palolem Beach has a semi-circular shape. There are many resorts along the shoreline here. You can also see many fishing boats along the beach. Palolem Beach has many shacks where you can sit and enjoy the beautiful views of the sea. Due to its relatively calm seafront, Palolem Beach is also good for swimming and kayaking.
From Palolem Beach, you can take boats to Butterfly Beach and Honeymoon Beach.
➢Butterfly Beach and Honeymoon Beach
From Palolem Beach, one must take a boat to reach Butterfly Beach. Butterfly Beach is relatively lesser known but a very beautiful beach. It is surrounded by hills and jungles on three sides. The name “Butterfly Beach” comes from the many butterflies found in the jungle along the shoreline. You can also see crabs and goldfish at Butterfly Beach. I really liked this beach.
Further ahead from Butterfly Beach by boat is Honeymoon Beach. Near this beach, there is a large rock resembling the shape of a turtle in the sea, which looks very impressive.
Like Butterfly Beach, Honeymoon Beach is also a small, beautiful, and tranquil beach. It is excellent for swimming. We spent a long time swimming in the sea here. Spending time here was truly wonderful.
➥Portuguese Influence on Goa Culture
Almost everyone is aware that Goa was a former Portuguese colony. Portuguese travelers arrived here in the 15th century. After India gained independence in 1947, the Indian government demanded that Portugal hand over control of Goa, a demand rejected by the Portuguese government. In 1961, India took control of Goa with military force.
The influence of Portugal is still visible in Goan culture. Tourists often enjoy Portuguese music and dance aboard ships here. The impact of Portugal is also evident in the names and Christian religion here, which is different from other states in India. Goa’s churches and other buildings showcase Portuguese architecture. In conclusion, it is not untrue to say that Portuguese culture has had an influence on Goan culture.
Goa warmly welcomes tourists from all walks of life. Goa offers a great option for sightseeing to all types of tourists. The atmosphere here is perennially vibrant and filled with enjoyment. While days are spent frolicking in the waves along the seashores, nights are meant for partying in clubs.
If you are heading to Goa, make sure to book your hotel in advance. Renting a scooter here is a better option for getting around, allowing you to navigate the streets and traffic relatively quickly. Visiting Goa once in your lifetime is a must; your trip here will surely become memorable.
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➜ Things not to miss in Goa: Riding a scooter, going to clubs at night, trying sea food, enjoying water sports at the beach, spending evenings at Baga Beach, Kayaking in Cola Beach, Visit to Butterfly & Honeymoon Beach, Photography.
➜ How to reach Goa: The nearest airport is in Goa’s capital, Panaji. There is also the Konkan Railway from Mumbai to Goa, renowned for its scenic beauty. Besides, Goa is well-connected by good railroads from other cities across the country. Vasco-da-Gama and Madgaon are the main railway stations in Goa. If you are heading to North Goa, alight at Madgaon station. The road route from Mumbai to Goa is also very good. Additionally, Goa is well connected by road from all major cities in the country.
➜ Best time to visit Goa: Although tourists visit Goa throughout the year, the best time to visit is from November to February. Avoid visiting during summers as the sands on the beaches become very hot. It can also be challenging to visit the beaches during the monsoon season due to rainfall.
➜ Ideal duration for a trip to Goa: 5 days / 4 nights
Information Source: Authentic information sources available on internet, Various Articles and books on the subject & Interaction with local public.
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