Goa entertains tourists from across the world all year round with its exquisite beaches and rich culture, mixed with a laidback lifestyle and mouth-watering Goan cuisine. Its quaint landscape away from the strains of a city life makes it a haven for travelers from all parts of the world and allows them to dive in the beauty of its nature.
How to reach
Being one of the most popular tourist destinations, Goa provides sufficient travel option to help you reach the tropical bliss, with the state having conveyance tie ups with all parts of the country.
The Dabolim Airport is just 29 kms away from Panjim, state’s capital, and therefore makes flying a convenient option with daily flights coming in from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Cochin.
If you do not come from any of the major domestic cities, you may be better suited for a train travel, with two major railway stations in Goa, Madgaon and Thivim, well connected by trains from all parts of the country.
Goa also provides bus services for inter-city as well as intra-city transportation options which help travelers from neighboring cities to reach the beach paradise with ease. The most prominent bus stand is the Kadamba bus stand in Panjim which puts you right in the heart of the city. You can also combine the three conveyance options to better suit your budget and/or save time on the journey.
Where to stay
Your budget and duration of stay affect your accommodation significantly. Goa provides a large variety of accommodation ranging from lavish hotels and resorts to make your vacation a fantasy, to guest houses and camps to suit your pockets. Hotels like Tal Vivanta, Cidade-de-Goa make for a sumptuous vacation and cost some something in between Rs, 6000 to Rs. 8000 per night. Renting a guest house on the other hand proves to be economical, offering rooms for around Rs. 400 to Rs. 1000 per night but compromise on the perks of a hotel. You can also opt for camping on the beach to revive your sense of adventure and enjoy cool breezy nights under the starry sky on the shore.
Places to visit in Goa
Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church
Built in 1540, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church is one of the oldest churches of Goa and encapsulates the rich heritage of the indo-portugese land. It is relic of a bygone era and offers a great insight into the historical significance of Goa.
Baga Beach
The Baga beach is one of the most popular beaches in North Goa, offering a host of beach attractions such as parasailing, kite surfing, wind surfing, dolphin cruises and jet ski. The beach is also famous for its exhilarating nightlife which attracts tourists from all parts of the world.
Fort Aguada
Located on the Sinquerim beach, Fort Aguada is an architectural masterpiece of the 17th century, built to defend the Portuguese’s land from the british and Marathas. Leisurely strolls through the fort offer an overwhelming view of the Arabian Sea and makes for cultural insight.
Chapora fort
Fall right onto the sets of ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ by taking a step into Chapora Fort. This north Goan fort offers a splendid view of the Arabian Sea and is perfect for a laidback day seaside.
Dudhsagar Waterfall
One of the major attractions of Goa, the Dudhsagar Waterfall is situated approximately 60 km from Panjim and best witnessed in the monsoon. This 310 meter high multi-tiered waterfall is India’s fifth highest waterfall, nestled up in the cozy natural habitat of Goa. The place offers adventurous activities such as rock climbing, swimming, etc.
Viceroy’s Arch
Longing for a lesson in History? Once the main street to Old Goa, the Arch was established in 1599 by Viceroy Francisco da Gama to commemorate the memory of Vasco da Gama. The arch flaunts an assertive statue of Vasco da Gama and offers great insight about the historical footprints of the renowned explorer.
Old Goa
Keeping in line with the historical theme of the Goa, Old Goa or better known as Velha Goa is a historically enriched town in North Goa known for his historical significance. A walk through the ruins of this old town offers a heap of information about the 15th century Goa. The site is an official heritage locality maintained by Archaeological Survey of India.
Panaji Kala Academy
Take a dive into the artistic expressions of the people of the Goa by visiting this cultural centre showcasing pieces of art and culture by the goan people. Goans are known for making a mark in the field of art, music and dance and express that beautifully through this cultural centre.
Arambol Beach
To sway away from the commercialization of the popular beaches, visit the Arambol Beach in North Goa. This deserted beach is sandwiched between 2 hills with an elaborate view of the Arabian Sea and offers a quaint scenic landscape for you to enjoy a quiet evening.
Anjuna Beach
Anjuna Beach is another one of the most popular beaches of Goa, crowded with people from all walks of life. Visit the beach to enjoy the pure commercialization of the place, with the baech offering a number of water borne adventure activities. Located in Bardez takula, the beach is approximately 19 km away from Panjim and is also a major attraction for hippies of the world for its trance style night beach parties.
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