Sun-kissed beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and crazy nights; Goa has everything that makes it the fun capital of India. Whether you prefer travelling with friends, solo or wish to go on a romantic getaway, Goa has got the perfect setting for every kind of traveller. The place boasts of centuries-old monuments, Portuguese heritage, palm trees, cashew plantations, the famous Goan fish curry, flea market, festivals, Santa Monica Cruise Ride and what not! That’s not all folks, because here you get to enjoy the best nightlife and wake up to the most tranquil sunrises on the calm beaches. Since the long list of many incredible places to visit in Goa might leave you overwhelmed, here are the best picks you must not skip on your upcoming visit to Goa.
Best Places to Visit in Goa
Forts in Goa
Forts in Goa are a treat for all the history buffs out there! Make sure you visit, at least, the most prominent ones to learn the history of Goa while enjoying the exquisite views. Read to know about the most popular forts in Goa.
Aguada Fort
Exploring Goa is incomplete without visiting the Fort Aguada. The epitome of Portuguese architecture is named so after the Portuguese word for water, i.e. ‘Agua’. With a capacity to store 2,376,000 gallons of water, the fort served as the biggest freshwater reservoirs of Asia. Built in 1612, this fort was used by Portuguese for the protection from Dutch and Marathas. You can also see a statue in front of the Aguada jail that salutes the freedom fighters, giving a touch of patriotism. So, find the best flight booking offers online and fly down to Goa to see the beautiful setting near the Aguada Fort.
Location: Fort Aguada Rd, Aguada Fort Area, Candolim
Chapora Fort
Yet another popular tourist attraction in Goa, the Chapora Fort is quite popular among history buffs, photo fanatics, nature lovers and adventure seekers. The fort shot to fame after the Bollywood movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot here back in 2001. As the movie became a blockbuster, people started giving it names like ‘Dil Chahta Hai Fort’.
Location: Chapora Fort Rd, Chapora
Reis Magos Fort
Located on the north bank of the Mandovi River, Reis Magos Fort was constructed by Alfonso de Noronha, the Portuguese Viceroy in 1551. The fort served as a crucial site by defending the Portuguese in the war with the Marathas in 1739. You can also find a beautiful church, dedicated to the three wise men of the Bible, at the foot of the fort.
Location: Verem, Bardez
Cabo De Rama Fort
Popularly identified by the name ‘Cape of Rama’, this fort is also known for its mythological and historical significance. As the fort overlooks the Arabian Sea, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of mesmerising sunsets. Come to South Goa to have a unique experience that will remain etched in your heart forever.
Location: Taluka Cabo da Rama, Canacona
Beaches in Goa
Goa has earned the title of the most popular beach destination of India for all the right reasons. Picturesque sunsets, golden sand, swaying palm groves, shacks on the beaches, and the best seafood and drinks, you will find everything you need on a beach. While some beaches are laid-back, perfect for relaxation, others are more happening to give you a truly memorable vacation. Scroll down to know about the most popular beaches of Goa.
Aguada Beach
Situated in North Goa, Aguada Beach attracts hordes of tourists from all around the country. Visit this alluring beach that will soothe your eyes with its pristine landscape. Quite popular among honeymooners, this beach also offers great water sports and awesome views of the Arabian Sea. Find your way to this stunning beach and other tourist places in Goa by booking cheap flights right away.
Location: Fort Aguada Rd, Aguada Fort Area, Candolim
Baga Beach
Located close to Calangute beach, Baga Beach is one of the major tourist attractions in Goa. Lined with an array of palmistry shops, sun desks, some legendary shacks, tattoo parlours, spas, and the tarot shops, it gives you a chance to live the best time on a beach holiday. In case you’re not a party person, you can enjoy beach Yoga; have nutritious breakfast by the beach and enjoy the rest of the day on beach recliners.
Location: Bardez
Anjuna Beach
Enjoy full-moon parties at Anjuna Beach, one of the best tourist places to visit in Goa. Folded up by azure water of Arabian Sea, this beach is famous for trance parties and hippies who tried blending the spiritual traditions and art of the East with the music of the West.
Location: Anjuna, North Goa
Churches in Goa
Other than the splendid beaches, many hop on to cheap flights to see Goa’s quaint churches that add to its indelible charm. Visit the churches of Goa to get closer to the religious, architectural and historical aspects of the state. Below are some of the most-visited churches in Goa that will make your trip memorable.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Built in 1594, this church in Goa is one of a kind. Characterised by its exemplary baroque architecture and subtle detailing, it is one of the richest facades in the Indian state. You can see that even after 400 years, the remains are in good condition. See this over 408 years old church that is open to the public every day.
Location: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim
Church of St. Francis of Assisi
This Roman Catholic Church, situated in the main square of Old Goa, was established by eight Portuguese Franciscan friars who landed in Goa in 1517. The highlight of this place is the statue of Mother Mary. Since the church is also home to the 2nd largest bell in the world, it makes the church one of the most intriguing places to visit in Goa.
Location: Off National Highway 4, Goa Velha
Other Attractions in Goa
Dudhsagar Falls
Dudhsagar Falls is also counted among the top tourist attractions in Goa. It is also one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Therefore, you do not want to miss feasting your eyes on this wonder. You can plan your trip in the monsoon season when the waterfall reaches its full glory.
Anjuna Flea Market
A hippie’s paradise, Arjuna Flea Market is the perfect place to hunt for souvenirs for your Goa trip. Apart from clothes, the numerous stalls here offer handicrafts, trinkets and other items that make for great souvenirs. It’s a weekly market held every Wednesday on Anjuna Beach.
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is one of the most famous wildlife areas in Goa. Home to numerous exotic birds, it is a heaven for ornithologists. Eagles, kingfishers, cormorants, kites, sandpipers, curlews, woodpeckers and drongos are among the many birds found here. You can navigate through the mangrove marshes on a canoe, admiring the fascinating landscape of the sanctuary.
Find the best domestic flight offers online before booking an air ticket to save on your tickets. Before flying down to Goa, make sure you know about the best beaches and famous churches in Goa to make your vacation more than amazing.
Other than the beaches, churches and forts, Goa is the best place for food lovers. Tito’s Club, Mambo’s, and Britto’s are some of the best party hubs you can visit to satisfy the party animal inside you. Find the best domestic flight offers online before booking an air ticket to save on your tickets. Before flying down to Goa, make sure you know about the best beaches in Goa and famous churches in Goa to make your vacation more than amazing.
