Goa is often referred to as the ‘beach capital of India’. The state lies on the southwest shore of India. Goa is pretty famous for its gorgeous beaches, carnivals, viewpoints, adventure sports, shacks, nightlife, and much more. This makes it a popular tourist destination in India. Many tourists flock to Goa for Christmas and New Year celebrations, thus giving a major boost to Goa tourism.
The charm of the place is the beaches of Goa. The palm trees accompanied beaches are one of the many reasons to visit Goa. The state of Goa was the first stronghold of the Portuguese in Asia. You will find many forts and Portuguese-built churches and houses in Goa till date. So, yes this attracts many international tourists as well as Indians.
Goa shares its borders with Maharashtra and Karnataka. The official language of Goa is Konkani, while you may also find Portuguese speaking families. The ideal duration for a vacation in Goa would be around 4-7 days. Panjim is the capital city of Goa. The state offers a variety of activities that makes a visit worthwhile. Let’s dive in and find out the things to do in Goa.
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Best Places to Visit in Goa
Let me say this straight, you might think that Goa is just a small state in India. But don’t get the impressions wrong. There are many places to visit in Goa such as hidden waterfalls, treks, unexplored islands, and beaches, etc.
I am going to categorize it into two parts – North Goa and South Goa.
This would make it easier for you to plan your itineraries. Ready?
Places to Visit in North Goa
- Panaji
- Anjuna
- Calangute
- Baga
- Candolim
- Arambol
- Vagator
- Morjim
- Mapusa
- Ashwem
- Divar Island
- Reis Magos
- Chorao Island
Places to Visit in South Goa
- Margao
- Colva
- Benaulim
- Palolem
- Agonda
- Cotigao
- Vasco da Gama
- Varca
- Bogmalo
- Arossim
- Colomb
Travel Itinerary for Goa
- 3-day travel itinerary (Coming soon)
Best Time to Visit Goa
The peak season in Goa starts from November up to mid- March. The weather in Goa during this season is calm and beautiful, clear skies cool sea breeze perfect to get a tan. This season attracts many tourists because of the festivals, nightlife, musical events, and much more.
The summer in Goa would be unbearable and I would not recommend traveling in this season. March, April, May & October are the summer months in Goa. The temperature touches 40 degrees Celsius in some regions.
June to September is the monsoon season in Goa. Traveling to Goa in monsoons can be pleasant during this season. Since many associate Goa to pristine beaches, there are not many tourists who venture in monsoon. Goa is beautiful in monsoons for its waterfalls, treks, and wildlife sanctuaries.
The winter season in Goa starts from November to February. It is the time of celebrations in the state. It is considered as the best time to visit Goa. The weather is perfect and amazing for travelers.
Things to do in Goa
Considering the biodiversity, climate, and varied topography of Goa, the state offers a long list of top things to do and tourism activities. Goa tourism offers a variety of adventures and activities to make your tour worthwhile.
So here is a list of things to do in Goa.
- Beaches in Goa
- Waterfalls in Goa
- Churches of Goa
- Forts in Goa
- Water Sports and Activities in Goa
- Carnival of Goa
- Fontainhas
- Shopping in Goa
- Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Casinos
- Chilling at Shacks
How to Reach Goa?
The state of Goa has a lot to offer for avid travelers all over the world. You can choose your favorable mode of transport as Goa is connected easily via Rail, Road, and Air. Take a look at the modes of transport and plan your travels in Goa.
By Air:
The Dabolim international airport is about 28km from the capital city, Panjim. Major flights are operating, hence connecting Goa to other cities and international travelers.
By Cruise:
That’s right, now you can also choose to travel to Goa via cruise ships. Note that the cruise operators have just started the tours recently so I have fewer details about them.
Put it in another way, I haven’t traveled on a cruise to Goa yet.
By Rail:
Goa has a well-knit railway network connecting to all major cities. The major railway junction of Goa is Thivim and Madgaon.
By Road:
There are a number of private Buses operate from all major cities that will take you to Goa. Government buses also operate along this route viz. KSRTC, MSRTC, and KTC. These are daily bus services.
You can also choose to travel in a private car; the route is very scenic especially in monsoons.
2 comments
A good guide. your blog looks almost professional. Will check it in laptop later.
Goa guide is perfect for a newcomer, not sure through when it would be possible to make a visit….
Thanks
True, Thanks a lot. Goa has always been my go-to Destination.