Topic: Ten Places to Visit in Goa

Introduction
Goa is a dream destination for travelers all around the world and it is a lovely place that is called the
Tourists Paradise. It is located in south-western part of India, on the calm Konkan coast, facing the
Arabian Sea.
The charm of Goa cant be simply explained in words, it is something to be experienced in the first
person. The architectural wonder of its Gothic churches of Colonial times and medieval temples on
one side and the beautiful, infinitely long sandy beaches one the other, have always been the main
attractions to the thousands of tourists who pass through here.
The beauty of Goa doesnt end just there. A large forest cover hides many wildlife sanctuaries and
bird sanctuaries within the state, all of which are open all round the year. Not only that, the Western
Ghats are nearby, inviting the travelers for a thrilling trek and a camping trip. Also the innumerable
number of rivers and streams which criss-cross the entire state form waterfalls at many junctures.
Goa is one of the best and picturesque places for all the eco-tourism buffs out there.
We cannot chalk down Goa just to the beaches and places. Goa has a soul of its own. Goa is also
about the people and the atmosphere that you can find nowhere else on the globe. The people here
are easy-going and friendly natured. They are known to work hard and party harder. The inhabitants
of Goa welcome one and all to join them to celebrate the essence of Goa with them.
Goa is the perfect holiday destination and an ideal place to get some fun in the sun, or some rest and
relaxation. There is something for everyone, be it couples, groups or whole families. Goa gives you
memories that are cherished for life.

10 Best places to visit in Goa

There is an uncountable number of tourist spots in Goa and it will certainly take a lifetime to catch
and feel them all. If you are on a short visit to Goa and want to experience of what Goa has to offer,
then it is recommended that you visit these top 10 destinations.
1. Palalom Beach: Palolem is a calm and picturesque beach located in the Canacona district,
Chaidu Village of South Goa. It was relatively unknown for a long time and was privy to only
few people. Today it is one of the top most tourist attractions in Goa.
Palolem is known for its white sands which stretch to about a mile and also for its crescent
shape. The crescent shape of the beach allows a person to observe the entire beach
standing on either of its ends. Palolem is one of the unspoiled and untouched beaches of
Goa. The beach is very clean and the water is clear and natural. On top of all that the
coconut pal trees which surround the beach give a dreamy atmosphere and an isolated

feeling. The thrill of several activities like Dolphin spotting trips, fishing rides and scuba
diving draw tourists here by the thousands.
The beach has a string of Thai styled shacks along the shore. Some of them house the native
fishermen and inside the others youre likely to find foreign tourists, enjoying the moment.
Both ends of the crescent beach lead to rocks which jut out into the sea. The shape of the
beach also makes it one of the safest beaches in India. The beach is quite shallow, especially
at the northern end, and the depth is known to increase gradually. Any average swimmer
can handle it on his own here since the currents arent very harsh here and the depth is very
dangerous.
Palolem Beach is also best known for its magnificent view during the sunset. The view of the
sky during twilight is indescribable and has to be experienced in person. Palolem has been
compared to even the beaches of Florida.
2. Basilica of Bom Jesus: The Basilica of Bom Jesus is the most visited church in all of Goa, both
by the residents as well as tourists. It is located in the Old Goa region, which is well known
for being the first capital of the Portuguese during the colonial history of Goa. This aweinspiring basilica was consecrated in the year 1605 by the then Archbishop of Goa, making it
one of the oldest churches in Goa as well as India.
The Basilica is an important pilgrimage centre especially for the Roman Catholic
denomination. People visit here not only for religious and spiritual purposes, but also to
admire the Baroque architecture of the 17th century Portuguese. The basilica has a hard
exterior which has withstood the weather for many centuries and an exquisite interior
having beautiful decorations and architecture styles which are intricately designed. An art
gallery can also be found inside the church.
There is another important reason to visit this sacred basilica; the mortal remains of the
saint Francis Xavier are preserved here. The basilica was chosen as the final resting place
after he was buried in three different countries and exhumed. The relics of Francis Xavier are
on display for the public, in glass container that is encased inside a silver casket. It is a
mystery that the body of the great saint seems to be as fresh as the day he passed away.
There are no signs of decay and one of the fingernails is said to be still growing after all these
years.
The Basilica of Bom Jesus has also entered the UNSECO World Heritage List. Visit the Basilica
of Bom Jesus to enjoy the art and architecture, feel blessed in Holy presence and experience
a sense of wonder.
3. Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Dudhsagar waterfall is probably the most famous waterfall of Goa
and an inviting travel destination. It is located at the Goa-Karnataka border and deep inside
the Bhaghawan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary.

Dudhsagar literally translates to Sea of Milk in English. It is famous for its fine mist created
when in full flow. Both the flowing water and the mist look like milk from a distance and
hence the name Dudhsagar. The falls are formed from the head waters of the Mandovi river
which flows throught the ghats and falls from the tall mountain cliff. A train track which
connects Vasco to Londa is also constructed along the mountainside, right in front of the
waterfalls, and the train rides through the area are called on of the dreamiest and beautiful
train rides on India.
The height of the waterfall is about 600 metres from head to foot, but the flow of water is
quite slow since the large boulders block the free fall of water. Even in full flow, they water
doesnt acquire enough force that might harm people. The greenish pool created at the foot
of the waterfall can usually be reached by foot and is safe enough to take swim. The
recommended mode of transport to reach Dudhsagar is by the Jeep Safari, which is offered
by the Wildlife Sanctuary staff. The alternate way to reach the destination would be through
a nice long old-fashioned trek. Additionally, a number of private operators are also known to
offer visits to Dudhsagar falls. Some travelers are also known to reach Dudhsagar via
motorcycles.
Dudhsagar falls is a destination which cannot be missed on a Goa trip, even if it means
skipping a few beaches. A trip to the falls ensures that there is enjoyment and excitement
for people from all walks of life.
4. Anjuna: Anjuna Village is one of the most perfect spot to pick if anybody wants a complete
package of what Goa has to offer at a single destination. Anjuna might seem like a sleepy
village, but has the Goan spirit ingrained to it. Beaches, churches, shopping, parties, shacks
or anything else associated with Goa is always found here.
To the north of Anjuna, you find the famous Vagator beach. It is divided into North and
South Vagator beaches. Vagator has a one of a kind view with red cliffs leading into the
beach. A couple of freshwater springs are also closeby. It is famous for its laid back attitude
and for the hippie culture which has survived from the 1960s. It is also known for its trance
parties, particularly among the foreigners, where the music is mesmerizing and the crowd
which enjoys it. Anjuna is also known for its excellent scuba diving facilities, which is offered
by professionals. The beach shacks here are popular since they dole out a number of
services like boating and fishing trips and also serve local food with mild entertainment.
Anjuna is also pretty well-known for the flea market which is put up every Wednesday.
Tourists come from faraway places to pick up a variety of items, arts, crafts and other neat
trinkets including jewelry and electronics. If you know how to bargain you might get some
great deals here. The market usually stays open from dawn to dusk.

Anjuna also has one of Goas oldest churches, the St Micheals Church. The Portuguese
architecture is one of the main attractions to the church. The church has huge welcoming
doors with towers on either side. The church is still in use and every Sunday mass is held,
which is attended by quite a large number of people.
Anjuna gets particularly crowded during the Christmas season, however, that doesnt make
the place any less fun since there is enough place for everyone here. Anjuna follows the
saying the more, the merrier!
5. Fort Aguada: For Aguada is located on the beach just south of Candolim. It is regarded as
one of the oldest and the best preserved Portuguese forts in India. It is a popular venue for
travelers since it reminds them of the history of Goa while appreciating the architecture of
Portuguese times. Not only that, Fort Aguada is also one of the most photographed location
in Goa. It is considered one of the best vantage points not only to observe the view of the
vast ocean but also to snap some incredible pictures. This is one of the landmark places to
visit in Goa.
Fort Aguada was built in early 17th century by the Portuguese to protect Old Goa from
potential invaders like the Dutch and the Marathas. The fort could also control uninvited
entry to the Mandovi river as well. It is built strategically at the estuary of the Mandovi river,
which has resulted in the magnificent view that we get today. One can observe the charming
sight of Mandovi draining into the Arabian Sea, through any of its viewing bastions and get
amazed the ingenious architecture of medieval times.
The fort also contains two large fresh water springs and a large well within itself. Hence, it
got the name Aguada. Agua is the Portuguese word for water. Historical records show that
passing ships were provided clean water at the beachside fort. The huge fort also contains a
four storey Portuguese lighthouse, which is the oldest of its kind in all of Asia. Tourists have
an excellent time exploring the giant fort, discovering the many underground rooms, the
water storage chamber, the gunpowder room and the bastions.
There are also excellent resorts and hotels around the fort in case you need to stop by for a
quick break or an overnight stay. The resorts and hotels provide you with tables and rooms
which have an attractive beachside view.
6. Mangueshi Temple: Mangueshi temple is easily the largest, most famous and most visited
Hindu temple in all of Goa. It has a 400 year old history and a handful of legends behind it.
Mangueshi temple is situated in Mangueshi village which is approximately 21 kilometres
from Panjim city, which is the capital of Goa. The main deity to whom the temple is
dedicated to is Bhagavan Mangeshi an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The idol of Mangeshi is
seen in the sanctum of the main temple complex. In the complex we can also see the Lord
Ganesh and Godess Parvathi being worshipped.

The architecture of the temple stands out with rest of Goa in the background. The design of
the temple complex involves several large domes, pilasters and balustrades. The temple is
particularly noted for its grand lamp-post. The deepa sthamba or the lamp-post is a large
structure which comprises of seven stories. The other interesting feature is the prominent
Nandi, the bull statue at the entrance to the temple. The oldest part of the temple is
believed to be the sacred water tank, where people may wash themselves.
Several rituals are performed at the temple on a daily basis, however the travelers might
want to drop in on any given Monday since special music and rituals are carried out. All
Hindu festivals are celebrated richly in a grand manner. Festivals like Diwali, Dusshera and
Rama Navami are the ones which stand out. However, the most important festival of the
year is Shivarathri which is celebrated here with great pomp and fervor.
Visitors must note that there is a strict dress code which must be followed to enter the
temple. Beach wear is not an accepted form of attire. One must also remember that entry is
not allowed to foreign nationals and the temple is only open to Indians.
7. Baga: Baga is a famous coastal town in Bardez region of North Goa. It is a wildly popular
tourist destination and one of the biggest crowd pulling places in Goa.
Baga is famous for many things. One of them is the Baga beach. Baga beach is a crowd puller
due to thediverse water sport activities offered here. Anybody who wou loves water sports
would have Baga beach on top of their list. There are practically unlimited options at the
Baga beach and there is an activity for all ages. You might try parasailing if you like to fly high
or you would like to ride a jet ski to enjoy the feeling of cruising through the frothy water at
high speeds. Banana boat rides are great to enjoy as a group or if you dont like to get wet,
you might want to try a gentle paddle boat or dingy ride. There is something even for those
who would like to check out the aquatic life in the ocean. Dolphin spotting cruises start off
frequently from the spot. All these rides will come at a very reasonable and inexpensive
price if you know how to bargain. The prices can be brought down to fifty percent of the
initial quote. More discounts can be availed if the deal is struck by a large group.
There are also unbeatable scuba diving facilities provided at the baga beach and some
resorts even include it in their package. The clear and calm waters of Baga are perfect for an
underwater exploration adventure.
Another reason for Baga being famous is the Baga creek. Its a small rivulet which gave the
name to the town. Lots of fun rides are offered in Baga creek on boats. The boat rides are
said to remind people of Gondola rides of Venice.

8. Casino Deltin Royale Cruise: Casinos are a unique attraction of Goa, available in few other
places in the country. In case you already did not know, Gambling has a legal status in the
state of Goa, provided it is backed by valid permits and licenses. There are around four big
off-shore casinos in Goa, most of them cruise on the rivers. The largest of the floating
Casinos is the Casino Deltin Royale. It is docked at the Mandovi river in Panjim.
Deltin Royale is sometimes describes as Indias classiest casino. It has a range of
International games that you may bet on, like Blackjack, Roulette and even indigenous
games like Teen Patti, an Indian take on poker with 3 cards. The atmosphere inside the
Deltin is buzzing with the feel of a mega carnival. Bright lights everywhere and extraordinary
live entertainment lifts up everyone spirit on the cruise.
The cruise ship is a four-storied structure with different kinds of games and sophistications
on each of the levels, with a total of 700 gaming positions including an exclusive VIP section.
Children are allowed on board, but they are chaperoned off into the kids lounge. The adults
here expect to gamble their night away while having the time of their lives.
The food that is offered is lip-smacking. The best gourmet chefs prepare your meals for you
with the help of their expertise in a long list of cuisines, including the local Goan style.
Casino Deltin Royale offers the ultimate casino experience one could ever have. It is one of
the foremost luxury and gambling cruise of the country, which is a must visit destination for
the travelers who want to seek out a lot more from their lives. If one is careful to bet
according to their limits, it will be one of the most remembered times of ones life.
9. Titos Lane: Titos Lane is the place to be for all the party animals in Goa. Titos lane offers
the very best of Goas nightlife. After the sunset, Goa undergoes a transformation of sorts.
The clubbing scene wakes up as the sun goes down the horizon. The first time visitors to the
street will have their minds blown, exceeding their expectations in every single way.
Titos street is the perfect place if you are seeking the most hip and happening pubs, the
most rocking bars and top-notch restaurants in town. There are so many types and varieties
of clubs and pubs that you might easily lose your friends in the crowd! Kamaki, Caf Mambo,
Retro Bar, Cape Town Caf and Club Titos are some of the hi-fi clubs that are pretty popular.
There is always something happening in and around these clubs in Goa and it stays that way
all year round. You can expect to see DJs and MCs of National and even International fame
dropping in to make some tunes here. You might also spot many celebrities who keep
popping up here just to enjoy themselves at any time.

Apart from the atmosphere and the crowd, the food and drinks are not something that can
be easily scoffed away. Be it finger food, fast food or beautiful full course meals, all of them
are meticulously prepared which leave you coming back for more. The drinks are again have
an international flair to them. The skilled bartenders used their expert knowledge to mix you
some of the funkiest liquids known to man.
Titos lane is best enjoyed with a group of young friends who are up for a night of adventure.
You will be left wondering where the night went as the sun comes up!
10. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary: Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest wildlife
protection area in Goa. It is deemed as one of the best spots around for eco-tourism. It is
located in the Canacona taluk of South Goa.
At the entrance of the sanctuary, one can find the Eco-tourism Complex. This complex is
divided in many parts such as Nature Interpretation Centre, Library, Rescue Centre,
children's park, and Forest Ranger Office. Basic amenities like cottages and toilets are also
provided for the guests. The Nature Interpretation centre imparts essential knowledge
about wildlife.
Cotigao is well known for having excellent trekking trails filled with soothing sights and
sounds of the wildlife around it. It also has two tall watchtowers for those who would like a
better view of the beautiful nature around them. One of the trekking trails also leads to the
river Talpona, which flows through the Cotigao sanctuary.
The density of the forest cover is quite thick with some of the trees even reaching the height
of 30 meters. The wildlife is sparse compared to other sanctuaries; however, you still have a
good chance of spotting several species along your trek.
Most common animals to be spotted are Gazelles and Indian Bisons and birds which are
easily sighted are Malabar Crested Eagles and Rufous Woodpeckers. If you are lucky, you
might have the privilege to see porcupines, wild boars and hyenas. On the rarest of rare
occasions, Panthers and Sloth Bears can be seen. The best time to spot wildlife would be
early morning, around day break.
Cotigao is one of the spots that should never be missed, especially by the nature enthusiasts.
The best season to visit would be from October to early March. Make sure to follow the
rules and regulations of the sanctuary, so that the animals are not troubled by your
presence.

Reason to visit the Top 10 places:

The serene and picturesque beaches of Goa like Palolem and Anjuna are seldom found
elsewhere in India.
The art, architecture, artifacts and spirituality of the Basilica of Bom Jesus cannot be
matched.
The beauty and splendor of Dudhsagar falls is something that needs to be enjoyed in person.
The various experiences of Anjuna village are enough to make one come back for more the
next time around.
The stronghold of Fort Aguada takes us back into the past. Each brick used there has a story
to tell.
The Mangueshi Temple gives us insight into the fine Hindu architecture of Goa and also into
the various rituals practiced there.
The world famous Baga beach gives each visitor a rush of a lifetime with its hard hitting and
exciting water sports.
The Casino Cruise of Deltin Royale gives us the ultimate casino expreince and combines it
with the atmosphere of a merry cruise. This is something not to be missed.
The street of Titos lane awakens the party animal inside and convinces you to finally let
loose and enjoy the night.
The beautiful sanctuary of Cotigao reminds us of our natural roots and the fragility of the
environment.

Recommendations and Tips

Get Sunscreen: Get lots of sunscreen lotion to avoid the tropical Goan sun.
Prevention is better than cure: If you are prone to fall sick easily, do not drink water
from the local sources and eateries. Demand for bottled water, which is easily
available.
Follow Rules: Make sure you know about the local rules and regulations and take
care not to break them and cause other and yourself any inconvenience.
Be friendly: Be aware that you are a guest and see to that your behaviour doesnt
accidentally offend the local sentiments.
Dont buy from shady dealers: Make sure you do not buy anything illegal or
endangered.
Simplicity is the key: Dont make too many plans. Remember, too much is too bad.
Know how to heckle and bargain: Youll always get a better deal in Goa if you teach
yourself how to talk and whom to talk to.
Pack efficiently: Carry all the essentials. Dont leave necessary things, dont pack
unnecessary stuff.

Plan well: Plan your journey well but dont make a rigid schedule. Take your time to
enjoy Goa. Always have a Plan B in case anything doesnt fall into place.
Be careful with the animals: There are a lot of animals both in the streets and the
jungles of Goa. Be on the lookout for them and guard yourself against them.

Access to Information

The best way to get legitimate information is through the Goa Tourism Website:
http://www.goatourism.gov.in/

You might also reach out to the Goa Tourism Development Corporation at +91 9881465776.

Go through as many travel blogs and books about the sites you are about to visit in Goa.

Most good services and activities are listed online and have pre-bookings. Make use of those
services

Ask around at the local hotel desks for a registered Tour Guide if you are completely new to
Goa.
Buy a good travel guide with lots of information and quite possibly a few local phrases to
help you mix freely and easily with the locals.

Important Contact Information

The most important contact you need is of emergencies like Police and Ambulance. Both are toll
free.
Police: 100
Ambulance: 102

The Registration Office for Foreigners is at Panjim: 2426545

The Department of Tourism, Goa : 0832 - 2494200
Email : [email protected]
The Directorate of Tourism : 2225583
Government of India Tourism : 2223412
Goa Helpline: 2412121
Bus services can be availed at
a) Kadamba Transport Corporation: 2438034
b) Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation: 2438253
Always carry a cellphone and make sure you reach out to the proper authority in case you need
any kind of useful information. Check the local timings before calling.