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A First Timer’s Guide to Goa, India

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Even though Goa is the smallest state on the Western coast of India, it is one of the most popular due to its rich heritage, warm and friendly people, tropical climate, scenic beaches and exotic handicraft.

Back in the 60’s & 70’s, the North of the island became a hippy-haven, a place to escape everyday life and quickly became somewhere for backpackers to hang out and party.

For people travelling India alone, it was the perfect introduction. Naturally, the more popular a place becomes, the more it changes and over time.

The North now seems to be associated with high-rise hotels, watersports, street markets and cultural buildings but it also still retains its party-vibe.

Goa was recommended to us by someone when we were holidaying in Morocco, so we carried out some research on which was the best resort to stay – North or South?

Table of Contents

Quiet Cavelossim

Dudhsager falls & spice plantation, peaceful palolem, our final evening in goa, travel facts for goa, india, other attractions, a small selection of the best beaches:, pin it for later.

We tapped Goa onto the end of a week touring the Golden Triangle and were looking for something quieter, relaxing and less developed – with all this in mind, we were advised to head South and chose Cavelossim Beach at the Dona Sylvia Beach Resort .

To ensure the area doesn’t become monopolised with high-rise hotels in the North, the resorts around Cavelossim are not allowed to be more than two storeys high.

The grounds are in a beautifully tranquil setting, filled with trees and pretty flowers, including my favourite – frangipani!

The sand at Cavelossim beach was white, soft and crunchy – it felt a little like snow underfoot (only warmer!). On our first day we relished in feeling the warm refreshing Arabian sea lap against our toes. We watched crabs dart across the beach and watched locals trying to sell their wares.

They attempted to coax us into their beach shacks but after all the haggling in Rajasthan we simply wanted to relax and walk – shopping would come later.

Whilst we were in Goa, we celebrated our 2 nd wedding anniversary so we headed to the beach for sunset with a bottle of champagne. The sky turned from pastel peach to oranges then pink – it was the perfect end to our special day.

The Goan’s are renowned for their fine multi-cultural cuisine and we both absolutely loved the culinary masterpieces served up at the resort every single time we dined.

They whip up everything possible with various types of veg and we piled this high onto our plates – this is unusual for us, we love our meat!!

Outside the resort was a small road with shops and a few bars. We always had fun talking and joking with the locals, they really made us feel part of the community and quickly recognised our faces.

One night we stopped for a beer and cocktail at the Jazz Inn which, bizarrely, had a big frangipani tree growing through the middle of it! We grooved to the cool tunes played by the DJ who was also a Bob Marley impersonator from Birmingham, England.

We had a great chat with him and discovered he spends 6 months a year in Goa.

On one occasion we caught an auto-rickshaw as a taster of true India, it was hilarious! We laughed the entire journey!

The night sky was pitch black and our vehicle barely lit the way with its tiny headlamps – goodness knows how he could see! It was loud, crazy and filthy dirty, my hair looked like a scarecrow when we finished! The driver was so proud at how quickly we had reached our destination!

We had to shower when we were back to our hotel as we felt so disgusting – but the journey was well worth it!

Dudhsager Falls (pronounced dud-sager) means “sea of milk” and is located in Colem, two bumpy hours on a coach from where we were staying.

To reach the falls, we were transferred into an overland jeep for the final 45 minutes of the journey and we drove through 3 lakes (very cool!) followed by a 10 minute walk over stones and boulders.

We stripped off to our bathers and gingerly inched our bodies into the freezing cold fresh water – obviously after a few minutes of swimming and we were acclimatised, it was OK but it was rather crisp for those first initial moments!

Big fish swam alongside us and people threw pieces of banana for them to eat – oh yes – fish …eating bananas!

We swam over to the cascading falls and felt its power as the spray hit our face, it was beautiful. We had some free time here, so we chilled on a rock listening to the roar of the tumbling water – music to our ears!

Considered to be one of the best beaches in Goa, Palolem was an hour’s taxi drive from our resort.

It is an idyllic white crescent beach naturally blessed with palm trees lining the shore, calm turquoise sea and colourful beach huts. It definitely had a laid back vibe and we watched as fishermen gathered their nets on the beach – all very picture-postcard.

We had travelled here to enjoy the beach, and whilst sitting down for an hour, a few sellers asked if we wanted to buy anything, and when we declined they left us alone.

This made it such a pleasure to relax and we understood the lure of why a backpacker would spend weeks here – purely to enjoy the simple, chilled life!

After taking a peaceful stroll along the shore, we sat in a beach bar sipping a cold drink and just looking at the view, we wanted take time to soak up the ambience and really “feel” what this place was all about.

So to sum up Palolem – it really is a tranquil slice of paradise!

As the sun set on our last evening, we sat on the beach and reminisced at how magical our time had been.

Even though the sun had disappeared, there was such a nice atmosphere we chose to stay a few hours.

We listened to the music playing, danced on the sand and watched the high tide lap against the beach tables.

People lit paper lanterns and set them adrift into the sky. We watched as they faded into the distance forming an orange dot on the skyline, noticeably different to the gleaming white of the stars.

It was the best way to end our magical trip.

• A tourist visa is required for most nationalities but there is an e-visa scheme to apply online.
• The International Airport is in Dabolim on the west coast roughly in the middle of the state.
• 4 languages are spoken – Konkani, English, Marathi, Hindi
• Seasons: November – March – dry and cooler (by Indian standards). April & May it is unbearably hot and June – Sept/October have the monsoon rains.

Other Things to Do in Goa

We were attracted to Goa purely because someone recommended it! We had already looked at the Golden Circle tour with tiger safari, so Goa was the natural place to add-on.

Incidentally, whilst staying here, tour operators do give the option for overnights trips to visit the Taj Mahal and for tiger safaris.

You can book transport to come to and from Goa ahead of time by using the popular website, Bookaway .

• Panaji/Panjim – The capital full of historical Latin & Portuguese culture
• Bom Jesus Basilica –(for St. Francis Xavier tomb)
• Wildlife Sanctuaries – Bhagwan Mahvir (of which Mollem National Park is a part) or Cotigao Lamgau Caves
• Spice plantation visit (there are many all over)
• Casino cruise
• If you’re hanging out in Goa, head further south and check out the cool state of Kerala. Backwaters, surf and tonnes of cool things to do!

Markets In Goa

• Anjuna Flea Market (every Wednesday)
• Arpora Night Flea Market
• Mapusa Market (every Friday)

Angie Briggs

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Thanks for the guide Alesha and Jarryd. This year I missed Goa Trip but not next time.

Nice post goa is the perfect destination for a explore beach and staying in beautiful hotels and resort with a beach view are the best combination for stay in goa.

Thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed the article 🙂

As awesome i am expecting from your blog

very informative blog!

Hey, nice thank you for this great information.

Glad you found the information helpful. 🙂

Hey Angie Briggs, Thank you for all this information and The way you explain the things was so commendable, I just went to goa it was so helpful for me and the resort where I stay was so amazing.

Happy to help. Glad you had a great time. 🙂

Goa is a stunningly beautiful city with a kind and inviting population that draws visitors from all over the world. a fantastic article! Goa appears to be a fantastic place to visit. I’ll be adding this to my long list of fantastic places to visit. Thank you for providing this information.

A delightful read. Goa is undoubtedly one of the best destinations to visit for anyone visiting India for the first time. Its laid-back charm and beach settings are quite alluring and would make you want to stay forever!

Thank you for your comment. 🙂

It is Informative and engaging at the same time. Really liked the content you included. On top of that pictures were lovely and gave a feel of Goa.

Glad you liked the article. Thank you

A very nice blog such a great place to visit. And I also share with my family.

Thank you so much

Wow!! You definitely have the art of story-telling. The way you have written and the flow in which you have written is mindblowing. A very well-written and informative blog. I really liked the Travel Facts and Other Things To Do in Goa section. Also, I would like to know if you visited any theme parks in Goa? I am looking forward to take my family to a theme park.

Thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed the article.

Thanks for sharing the article it is really informative to get knowledge about the place.Goa is the best place to relax yourself. You have posted beautiful pictures to explore goa without any hesitation.keep sharing the post.

Thank you so much 🙂

Nice blog on first-timer. Explained very well. I have visited Goa. Really, an amazing place for beaches, parties, waterfalls. Best time to visit Goa is from December to February. All the great festival happens in this time like sunburn, goa festivals, and new year celebrations.

Wonderful post ! it is very interesting and informative post, I really enjoyed to read this. Visiting for these places you can take the help of Bharat Taxi for taxi service.

Thank you so much. 🙂

Very well written blog. I have been to Goa a few times myself and I think the blog covers the essence and spirit of the lace quite well. Informative at the same time entertaining read. Please share more pictures if you have. I have written a Blog on Goa trip as well. Please check it out

Thanks for your comment Sonali.

Goa is one of my favorite travel destination, the best place to relax. Such a lovely post! So glad to see you added spice plantation, it is still not very known.

Glad you liked the article. Thanks 🙂

Goa is an interesting sea beach and it’s amazing. I love the marine drive there.

Your guide was impressive and mind-blowing photos.

Thank you so much. We appreciate it.

Thanks for giving a brief description on Goa .

Last some day I thinking where to go for a mini vacation and I reached on your blog. After reading blog I decide to plan a trip to Goa for next week,

Thanks for sharing amazing goa blog.

Glad we could help. Have a great time Karan.

This is a great blog as a first impression. Am living in Goa for the last 5 months and it has been a very immersive time for me here. There are plenty of people who are choosing to leave the fast-paced city lives and move to the sunshine state 🙂

Very nice blog. You share a grateful information about travel in India. Thanks!

Heyy you guys! this was an amazing article, I am from Goa, and glad you enjoyed your trip! as a student I am doing a research study on the hospitality industry in Goa, for which i’m taking input from various people like, who traveled to Goa, from Goa and so on. I would be delighted if you share your personal experience as tourists in Goa. Please answer these questions below: 1. Did you feel your trip went out of budget? 2. Were there any problems faced by you, like in your hotel stay? 3. Would you prefer coming back to Goa?

Thank you. This would be a great help!

Hi Anushka, thank you for reading the article. This article is a guest post from Angie from Feet Do Travel. Hopefully she will be able to help. All the best

https://www.feetdotravel.com/contact-the-feet.html

Hi i want to come There ,could you guide me

Awesome post. Last i trip to goa its is very pretty place.Its make more memorable to us!..I just remain that moment while read this blog. Thanks for sharing!

Hi Ryan, thank you for reading. Glad it bought back memories. 🙂

A very interesting post as I also familiar very little about Goa, but now I have added this to my list of places to visit.

Thank you. Glad you liked it. 🙂

I really love this place while reading your article I got excited and remembering my Goa trip Thanks for sharing Keep posting.

Would love this for our family! It looks a wonderful place to visit there.

Hope you all get there one day. Happy travels. 🙂

What a Great post! Goa likes an amazing place where I can enjoy a lot. I am adding these places on my list where I want to Goa. thanks for sharing the best information. The photos are also great.

Thank you for reading.

Nice post. it is a very useful post. I like very much. Thank you for your sharing.

Glad it was helpful. Thank you

Wow this is nice blog sites. Very interesting blogs. I reallly like your traveling images. Thanks for sharing.Really a wonderful post. Thanks for posting such an informative & useful post with us. keep posting & inspire us like this post.Amazing pictures and very interesting article….. Thanks a lot for giving proper tourist knowledge and share the different type of culture related to different places. If you are planning for your holiday and searching for the beautiful place to spend your time then you can wander around this vibrant city. Nice pictures & very helpful information to Goa. Thanks to sharing this blog…..!!!

Thank you so much. Glad you liked the article. Thanks for your comment.

Happy to know that you liked Goa. Its perhaps time for another visit. There is a lot more to see and do here. Come back soon 🙂

Thanks for your comment Jane. It definitely does sound like Angie had a great time. Jarryd and I will have to check Goa out one day. 🙂

This is quite helpful. And that picture of the waterfall is amazing 🙂 Keep sharing more.

Thank you so much. Angie wrote a great article for us. 🙂

My friends and I booked a yacht from rediscovery cruises in April.. We had the best time ever!!! The staff took really good care of us.. We were served chilled beers and light snacks. All in all it was an amazing experience. Will definitely recommend them to anyone.Thanks to sea water sports

What a trip. Sounds like you had a great time. 🙂 Thank you for your comment

Great. I like your article and I have never been there so I am planning to visit there very soon on my upcoming vacation. Thanks for sharing the information.

Thank you so much. We hope you have a great time on your next visit. 🙂

Very well explained the unknown things about goa.

I’m going this month on Feb’18 28th. join there.

Thanks for reading Arun. Angie wrote a great article for us. We can not wait to go. We hope you have a great time and happy travels.

Nice description about our own Goa. But you should come back for New year’s eve party to enjoy the real goa.

Thanks so much. We’d love to visit Goa one day. Angie wrote a great article for us. 🙂

Inspiring blog, will be visiting in this November. It would be fun if someone likes to join us.

Thank you so much. Sounds great. Have a great time Edgar, 🙂

Thanks for sharing, definitely inspires to go and explore! We will be traveling to India this year, will stop by there and stay for a bit, Looks like a graet place to hang out for a while. How as Wifi there? We will need that if we want to stay longer… Thanks!

Thank you so much Julian. Not too sure about the Wifi as Angie wrote this awesome guide for us. We do have a few friends who live there and are bloggers. They have never complained about it but then again they most likely have their own connection. I am so sorry we could be more help. Have a great trip.

I’ve met a few travellers who only have good things to say about Goa, but I’ve never been myself. I know it used to bit a hippy spot but that’s about as far as my knowledge goes, oh and it was featured one of the 2nd Bourne film at the start. Angie has given an excellent account and detailed write-up.

Hi Barry, that was our knowledge also (hippy place). Until we met someone who lived there and told us more about Goa. We have never been either and would like to one day. Angie has definitely made us want to go. Hope you get there soon mate. Happy travels.

Angie is such a great writer! What ever she writes down, it always consumes me in a good way. After reading her stories of various places in the world, I feel like I need to go to every single one of them right now! Ha! Same goes with this one and Goa. Can’t wait!

Indeed she is. She really takes you to the place and makes you feel you need to be there. We were very lucky to have her write a post for us. Happy travels Kreete. 🙂

I have been reading a lot about Goa lately. Looks like a great place to explore. Love those beautiful falls!

Thanks Lisa. It does seem a lovely place. Angie wrote a great post for and and has indeed made us want to go too. 🙂 Happy travels

Stunning photos and gave me a very good insight into a part of India I would really love to visit when I eventually make it out there. I have heard of some of the places you mention but you’ve really brought them alive with your photos! Thanks for sharing!

A great post – we have considered Goa as friends have recommended it but it’s fab to find out all this information – Palolem looks like paradise! Beautiful photographs

Thank you Tracy. Angie wrote a great post for us. Glad you found it useful. Happy travels

What a great post! Goa looks like an amazing place to spend some time. I’ll be adding this to my very, very long list of great places to go. Thanks so much for sharing – will pin this for later too!

Thanks so much Jenn. Angie wrote a great guide for us. We can’t wait to visit this area of India too.

Goa has been near the top of our list for a long time and we are thinking of making it our summer destination this year. We have heard that the monsoons make everything greener!

It looks absolutely stunning – especially Dudhsager Falls. One of my favourite things in the world is swimming in a waterfall plunge pool and listening to the water beat down.

It does, doesn’t it. We can not wait to visit India and Goa is on our list. Waterfall swim is so magical. Thanks for your comment Karianne.

A very informative post as I too know very little about Goa, but now I have added this to my list of places to visit. The photos are great !

Thank you so much. Angie wrote a great guide and she definitely can take a great shot. 🙂

As someone who knows very little about India and Goa, this was great. Palolem looks really relaxing and I like that the beach vendors aren’t too pushy. Surprisingly, I had heard of the Dudhsager Falls before somehow and they’re definitely somewhere I’d like to visit. Beautiful photos Angie!

Thanks for your message David. We have never been to India. Can’t wait. Definitely a great post by Angie and beautiful photos. 🙂

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A Complete 7-day Itinerary and Guide to Goa for First Timers

This guide to Goa is perfect for those of you planning to travel there for the first time, as it talks about the best time to visit, how to reach Goa, popular beaches in North and South Goa, where to stay for your first visit, and how to get around. Also included is Goa itinerary for 7 days.

Goa is a tropical paradise with endless white and golden-sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees. This small state in the southwestern region of India is unlike any other, with its laid-back culture balanced by its thriving nightlife. But that’s not all there is to Goa. It is a land of soothing bike rides, fascinating world heritage sites, plush resorts, friendly hostels, delectable seafood, and various forms of spiritual practices. It is definitely the most popular destination in India amongst Indian and international travellers (after the Taj Mahal, of course), as it has something for everyone.

Guide to Goa For First Timers

What is the best time to visit goa.

March-May : These are the summer months when Goa gets unbearably muggy, with temperatures touching 40ºC (104ºF).

June – September : During these monsoon months, Goa becomes lush green. It is relatively quieter than other months. Most shacks are temporary structures that are dismantled during this period and water sports aren’t going on. But this is a charming time in Goa overall, with plenty of restaurants and activities to keep you entertained.

November–February : Winter is the peak season here. Goa, being a coastal area, is balmy while the inland parts of the country go through typical winter temperatures. The sun is always out and the cool sea breeze blows through from time to time. December is the busiest month as Goa hosts the Annual Sunburn Music Festival, which attracts people from all over. Plus, people flock in to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s holidays at this party destination.

Verdict: For your first time in Goa, you should visit during the season, Mid-October to Mid-March , so that you can see all that Goa has to offer. The shacks will be open, beach stays will be available in South Goa and the weather will be pleasant. However, the prices will be higher than any other time of the year.

How to reach Goa?

Goa’s international airport is situated at Dabolim, near Vasco Da Gama, and there is also a new airport in North Goa, Manohar International Airport. You can land at either of these and hire a taxi to your hotel/hostel.

While most cities in India have an organised cab service like Uber and Ola, Goa has  GoaMiles  ( now also an app) that can pass for Goa’s very own Uber. We’ve used it a few times and found cabs at a good rate. You can also opt for the taxis lined up on the road outside the airport (be prepared to bargain and ensure to set prices before the start of the trip) or prepaid taxi stands at airports that have a set price. You can always ask at your accommodation if they provide airport transfers but these might turn out to be more expensive.

Local buses in Goa are significantly cheaper but also very inconvenient, as you would have to change multiple vehicles to get to your destination in Goa. Use the local bus only if you’re on a super low budget.

Bus, Cab and Car

You can also opt to reach Goa by overnight bus or cab from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad in India. If travelling by bus, Mapusa would be your de-boarding point for North Goa , Panjim for Central , and Margao/Canacona for South .

You can book your bus via Redbus .

We’ve driven it down from Pune a few times now and once from Hyderabad. The road is full of potholes as you get closer to Goa. But you’ll cross ghats and waterfalls. It is beautiful!

Goa is also well connected by train to the rest of India. The main train stations are Vasco da Gama (central), Margao (south) and Thivim (north) .

Which area to stay in Goa?

Goa is divided into North and South Goa, with its capital, Panaji (popularly known as Panjim), located around the centre. For your first time in Goa, it can be confusing to decide where to stay, as different corners of the state offer different experiences. In this itinerary, you’ll be staying in both North Goa and South Goa .

Baga, Calangute, Candolim or Anjuna : This is a good option for your first time in Goa, as the area is very central, so all places to see would be close to you.

However, please note that these beaches aren’t best, as they’re the most popular in Goa. Every Tom Dick and Harry visit these beaches so the crowd is also such. However, your purpose of staying around this area is different. You’re here to enjoy the water sports, the parties, the food and maybe even shop a little.

A little further north is Anjuna. While it is not the best location to stay for this itinerary, this area has come up a lot in the past few years, so you’ll find a lot of  must-visit restaurants in Goa  around this area.

Stay Options:

Casa Cenica (2BHK in Arpora) Onastay  (2BHK in Candolim) Casa De Mezzanine (Beautiful 1BHK in Arpora) Jade by CasaFlip (2BHK in Anjuna) Beach Villa With Private pool (luxury) Canary By CasaFlip (1BHK in Anjuna).

Palolem or Agonda: For your first trip to South Goa, you should stay at one of these two beaches and explore other beaches nearby. These beaches have restaurants but yet maintain a relaxed vibe so you can enjoy time on the beach. Remember that you should only stay in South Goa beaches beach from October to March as the huts and shacks are mostly dismantled before the monsoons and built back up when the monsoons get over. Click to  know more about South Goa Beaches .

Stay Options: Jardim-a-Mar (Agonda Beach- I’ve stayed here twice) Simrose (Agonda Beach – this one is often open all-year round) Agonda Serenity Beach Villa (has a jacuzzi on porch at Agonda Beach) Agonda Island View (Agonda Beach) BunkNBrew (hostel in Palolem)

How to get around Goa?

Taxis are expensive in Goa and not ideal for getting around and sightseeing. Buses are quite cheap but again, inconvenient. Instead, opt for a scooter or motorbike for the duration of your stay in Goa. There is no better way to get around, as it will give you the utmost freedom. The best bit is that it is inexpensive at about Rs. 500–800 a day, depending on the season (off-season or peak), type of bike (scooters like Honda Activa, low-end bikes like Bajaj Pulsar or high-end ones, like Royal Enfield) and your haggling skills.

If you don’t want to ride a bike or moped, you can hire a car . Most offer stick shifts so if you don’t know how to drive these, finding an automatic may not be easy. However, we have always managed to find one and so should you. Economy cars usually cost about Rs. 1000–1200 per day but may go up depending on the season.

You can get a bike or car on hire easily by talking to your accommodation host or hotel.

The perfect 1 week Goa Itinerary: North and South Goa

The Goa experience is different for every individual depending on their style of travel. It’s never a one size fits all because there is simply so much to see and do. We have stayed in Goa for 2 months and have yet not seen it all. Your personalised Goa itinerary would largely depend on what you enjoy – nature, culture, beaches, partying, etc. In this 7-day Goa itinerary, we’ve tried to include a bit of everything so you can get a true feel of the different sides of Goa and decide for yourself which aspect of Goa you enjoy the most!

Day 1-2 North Goa – Watersports, Shopping, Partying

Stay near the Baga Beach/ Arpora area. Despite being crowded, it is close to a lot of North Goa tourist spots you’ll be visiting. And also, hire a scooty, bike or car. You’ll need it to get around. Prior reservations for restaurants are needed!

Day 1: Beach, Water sports, Party

• Reach Goa and check into your hotel or Airbnb
• Rent a vehicle
• Calangute Beach for lunch at Pousada by the Beach
• Water sports and sunset at Baga Beach
• At night go partying at Hammerz (popular music) in the Baga Area or Las Olas (Bollywood music) at Baga Beach. Or both as they’re close by! Start at Hammerz and end at Las Olas.

Day 2: Cliffside Restaurants, Fort, Sundowner, Party

You don’t need to do all of these things mentioned below. Select the ones you wish to do based on your preferences and how much time you have. I’d recommend not partying till late this night so you can be fresh to explore Goa the next morning.

• Wake up late this day since you’ve partied the previous night
• Lunch:   Titlie OR Antares OR Casa Playa at Little Vagator or Felix OR Artjuna or Vinayak at Anjuna.
• Shop: Now go shop at Anjuna Flea Market!
• Explore Chapora Fort (The movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot here so expect it to be crowded)
• Stay for sunset or go for a sundowner to Thalassa closeby
• Dinner at Ida in Vagator
• Party at one of the following – Soro (Siolim) or Romeo Lane (Little Vagator).

Day 3-4: North Goa – Culture, Heritage and Nature

Day 3: culture and heritage.

Head for a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa . On this day, you’ll get a good glimpse of Portuguese influence on Goan heritage.

Old Goa Churches : Start with Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the following churches in this order:

• St. Augustine Church Ruins
• Basilica of Bom Jesus (the most renowned)
• Convent of Santa Monica and The Museum of Christian Art (optional but good)
• Se Cathedral
• Church of St. Cajetan
• Viceroy’s Arch
• Our Lady of Mount Chapel (optional- for panoramic views of the Panjim area)

Going on a tour will help you make the most of your time and understand the significance of Old Goa and its churches. It is highly recommended. We’ve taken several tours by this company and loved all of them.

Lunch : Head for either a local Goan lunch at Kokni Kanteen or Cafe Al Fresco By Cantina Bodeg a for continental food. Both are close to your next stop.

Fontainhas : After lunch, take a walk in Fontainhas, Asia’s largest Latin Quarter, which has lanes lined with houses built in the colonial style and painted in bright shades of red, yellow, green, and blue. We highly recommend seeing this area on a Latin Quarter walking tour; only then will you truly be able to appreciate the history and architecture. However, if you don’t wish to take a tour, start your walk at Maruti Mandir or Phoenix Springs, ending at the Church of Immaculate Conception. See the colourful houses, click a lot of photos at the colourful wall of Old Quarter Hostel, buy some Azulejo tile décor at Velha Goa Galleria, admire the white façade of St. Sebastian Chapel, and have some bebinca (Goan Dessert) at Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro .

Evening: Get drinks and small bites at Antonio@31 or head for a full-fledged dinner at Black Sheep Bistro . Please check the prices of these restaurants beforehand to see if they fit your budget and make reservations beforehand. You could also go for a fun Pub Crawl instead.

Night: Later you could head to a Deltin Royale Casino (buy tickets online for the best deals) OR go back home to rest for an early morning the next day.

Book Tours in Goa

Day 4: Nature and Heritage

Chorao Island and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary : Do this either on a tour or go by yourself. You’ll have to take a ferry from Ribandar. Don’t miss the famous Mangrove Broadwalk. It is beautiful. We haven’t been here yet but can’t wait to go!

Lunch: Lazy Goose , Nerul. Reserve the table with the lake view if you can.

Depending on the time you start the day, see one/two of the following attractions. Choose one museum and one fort:

• Houses of Goa Museum (do this only after a walking tour of Fontainhas; otherwise, nothing will make any sense) OR Museum of Goa (modern art tinged in Goan history).
• Aguada Fort (great for sunsets but crowded) OR Reis Magos Fort (relatively less known and beautiful).

Have dinner in the Candolim, Calangute, or Baga area. There are plenty of good restaurants.

A Reverie : Fine Dining Toro Toro : Continental/Goan Yazu – Pan Asian Beach Club: Asian

Day 5-6: South Goa – Beaches and relaxation

Day 5: spice plantations, iconic restaurants, relaxation.

Now, head to South Goa. Stay at Agonda or Palolem Beach- both are fantastic beaches for your first time in Goa.

But on your way, you have the option of making a few stops.

• Sahakari Spice Plantation: Wonder why the Portuguese were so fascinated by Goa? The answer lies in the tantalising smell and flavours of spices like Cardamom, Cinnamon, Cloves, Allspice, Cumin, etc. See how these spices grow and learn about them. End with a local buffet lunch at the plantation. I found the experience very interesting and learned a lot. You can buy the ticket on reaching there.
• Iconic Restaurants: If you’re not in the mood for the above, stop at Martin’s Corner or Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch. They are both very renowned.

Check into your hotel and use this day to do nothing and just relax on the beach, see the sunset, etc. Otherwise, you could also choose to head to Sundowner Palolem (Bar) for a sundowner!

Day 6: Beaches and Viewpoints

Today is going to be a long day of beach hopping.

Cola Beach: Start your day at Cola Beach. It’s a bit of a hike down to the beach. You can even take the jeep to the beach to save time and effort but it’ll cost a bit. Cola Beach is famous for its lagoon, where you can swim and kayak. You can have lunch here before heading to your next stop.

Kakolem Beach: This beach has a waterfall. Yes, you read that right. ( you can skip this beach if you’re running short on time or want to take it a bit slow).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Modi & Trisha – Travel Couple (@trywanderingmore)

Cabo De Rama Fort and Cabo De Rama Viewpoint for sunset . Both are gorgeous spots with fantastic views – you’ll love the sunset here. You can also choose to have a meal and drink at the Cape Goa restaurant near the viewpoint before heading back to your hotel.

Day 7: Butterfly Beach and Palolem/Agonda Beach

• Butterfly Beach : It’s a beautiful secluded beach. You can hike it to the beach or go via boat but I’ll suggest going as early as possible to avoid crowds.
• Palolem/Agonda Beach : For lunch head to either of these beaches that you’re not staying at. At Palolem, you can have lunch at Dropadi by the beach and at Treetop Tava or Zest (vegan cafe) at Agonda. Walk around the beach later afterwards.

Depart for home this evening or the next morning!

But do not forget to book your tours in goa before you get there!

Tips to Stay Safe in Goa

This guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t mention tips to stay safe there. Goa is really welcoming and local-friendly. But because it is a  thriving party location and has people travelling from all over, you should take care of the following, especially if you’re a woman.

• Don’t hitchhike.
• If you’re a woman travelling solo, preferably rent a car. If you’re a woman travelling in a group, bikes will do. 
• Always get a video of the vehicle hired to avoid being ripped off on returning the vehicle.
• Don’t go out with people you don’t know and never go to parties alone.
• Watch your drink.
• Try to stay vigilant, even when drunk.
• Some Indian men can assume friendliness as flirting. 
• Be cautious of theft at your accommodation. Huts can easily be broken into.
• Drugs are available abundantly in Goa. Avoid getting stuck in the middle of a drug racket. 
• Avoid drunk driving. It is being monitored by the police more strictly than before.

Don’t let these scare you. I (Trisha) have  travelled solo to Goa  and also with my girlfriends and had an absolutely fantastic time. Most of these tips should be adhered to anywhere in the world. Here is a complete list of  ways to stay safe while travelling alone .

Wrapping up

Goa is a place that you can never get enough of. With each visit, you discover something new – a secret beach, a quaint café, a shack with amazing music, a magnificent fort, and so on. We have visited Goa about five times for short periods – with different people, as different people in different phases of our lives, or wanting something different from our trip- and Goa has never let us down. We are sure you will be taken by the charm of Goa and not want to leave just like the hippies in their heydays. Hope you found this Goa Travel Blog useful and have an amazing first trip to Goa. Tell us how it went!

This blog post on the ‘Travel Guide to Goa for First Timers’ has affiliate links that enable us to earn a small commission when you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and activities we like and those that might interest you. If you like any suggested product, do buy from the given links.

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Home » Asia » India » Goa

GOA Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Gorgeous Goa is India’s smallest state stretching along the shores of the warm Arabian Sea. It has been a jewl in the crown of Indian tourism since the 1960’s attracting hippies and sun-seekers each winter.

Goa (like all of India) is a place of celebrations and you’re bound to experience a festival or parade sometime during your stay. The wonderfully festive province of Goa will remind you that there’s always a reason to celebrate (ie, you are alive)!

Its rich cultural history and lush forests make it a wonderful place to explore and there are some great guided tours on offer. If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend your time in Goa, you’ve come to the right place because we’ve put together the ultimate Goa itinerary.

Need some info about visiting Goa? Then read on!

A Little Bit About This Goa Itinerary

Where to stay in goa in 3 days, day 1 itinerary in goa – panjim & old goa, day 2 itinerary in goa – anjuna party time, day 3 itinerary in goa – arambol, what to do with more than 3 days in goa, best time to visit goa, how to get around goa, plan a trip to goa – what to prepare, faq on goa itinerary, final thoughts.

When you talk about backpacking India , you’ll quickly hear all about Goa, which is undoubtedly one of the most laidback and beautiful places in the entire country.

Whilst Goa is India’s smallest state, it is still nevertheless a state and is as big as some small countries. This itinerary covers the entire state from North to South and with several incursions inland.  Therefore, to execute this Goa itinerary in 3 days you will need to change accommodation a few times.

The good news is that finding places to stay in Goa is pretty easy wherever you are. There are loads of guest houses, party hostels , hotels and homestays all eager for foreigners to crash – it is usually as simple as turning up in town and asking around.

The itinerary does leave time for changing accommodation and moving around and has also been designed to be flexible enough to adjust to suit your own needs. In terms of traveling around Goa, the bus system is very cheap, but rides can be long and very uncomfortable. Therefore if you have the budget, we suggest taxi’s – if you book ahead and haggle you can cover even large distances for well under $30.

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Goa 3-Day Itinerary Overview

• Goa Itinerary Day 1- Old Goa | Spice Garden | Panaji Tiatre
• Goa Itinerary Day 2 – Vagator Beach | Foot Massage | Paddle Boarding | Trance Party
• Goa itinerary Day 3 –  Querim Beach | Sweet Lake | Yoga Session | Drum Circle | Ecstatic Dance

Let’s get this straight, Goa is a State. Whilst it is India’s smallest state it is still bigger than a lot of countries. You need to choose where to stay in Goa very carefully as it will inform your experience and will affect your Goa itinerary hugely.

Goa is roughly divided into North Goa and South Goa. North Goa has a few more famous attractions than South Goa so if you’re wanting to spend some time doing typically touristy things then North Goa is a great place to start!

Most visitors opt to stay in a beach town or village. The prime ones in the North are Anjuna & Arambol for hippies & backpackers, and Baga beach and Calangute for package tourists. In the South, Palolem Beach & Agonda and Candolim are popular. There are Airbnbs in Baga , Calangute & Candolim but very few in Arambol & Anjuna.

If you don’t want to be near the beach then there are a few nice towns and cities set further back inland, Goa Airbnb listings tend to provide a nice variety of options to choose from.

Panjim is a nice city in the Northern Goa region! It’s home to many gorgeous old Portuguese mansions and some good art galleries.

Best Hostel in Goa – Folklore Hostel

Situated in Vagator, Goa Folklore Hostel can only be described as a home away from home! With communal spaces that encourage interactions and facilities that you provide everything you need, there’s no better place to spend your stay in Goa if you’re looking for a hostel experience!

What’s more? If you don’t want to leave your furry friend at home, feel free to bring them with as the Folklore hostel is pet-friendly!

Best Airbnb in Goa – 2 Bed Lotus Villa @ Tito’s Street

This quirky and comfortable villa in Goa is located in the heart of the party district. With Bardez’s best beaches and hottest clubs within walking distance, you won’t find a better Airbnb in Goa.

Best Budget Hotel in Goa – Crystal Goa

This quaint hotel offers everything you’ve come to expect from a hotel, plus an incredibly tranquil setting! The restaurant and bar on the property are also a great place to dine during your stay in Goa. But don’t worry, should you feel like lying in and having a lazy morning, breakfast will be delivered to your door! Crystal Goa is located in Palolem in South Goa so perfect for those who prefer peace to partying.

Best Luxury Hotel in Goa – Vivanta Panaji

This incredibly beautiful luxury hotel is located right in Panjim center! But convenience is not its main drawing card.

A 24-hour gym and spa might have something to do with it! As well as the fact that the hotel is pet-friendly. This is very rare to find in such a luxurious venue! Live music is provided every night so there is no shortage of entertainment at the Vivanta Panaji!

For the first day of our 3 day Goa itinerary we are gonna base ourselves in Panjim or Panaji, the Goan state capital. Whist this city is inland, away from the lush beaches, it is one of India’s cleanest and most pleasant cities. It abounds with beautiful old colonial mansions and is well situated for executing day 1 of our itinerary.

10:00 – Old Goa

Old Goa is the former Portuguese Colonial capital. It was once considered a great city of the world rivalling even Lisbon itself I’m terms of its wealth, culture and beauty.

Most of Old Goa has been lost to the ravages of time but thankfully, enough has survived to justify a visit. The Dom Jesus Basilica is perhaps the grandest Christian temple in the whole of Asia. Then there are the ruins of the old Church of St Augustine. which blend into the Goan jungle like a level from Tomb Raider.

Old Goa can easily be explored in a day or even in half a day. The issue is getting there as it is about 20km away from the beaches. You can book a private or a bus tour from any travel agent in pretty much any resort which will leave in the morning and drop you back home after dark.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Although the building is very rustic, it’s incredibly beautiful too. A church may seem like a strange place to visit while staying in Goa, India. But because Goa was colonized by the Portuguese for so long, many Hindus converted to Catholicism over this period of time. This is one of  Goa’s best places to visit  in 3 days.

A solid option, is to join an electric bike tour so you can really explore the jungles and roads!

• Cost – Most of the sites here are free
• How Long Should I Spend Here? Half a day
• Getting There – Old Goa is about 30 minutes drive from Panjim. I recommend getting a taxi or joining a tour bus

 15:00 – Sahakari Spice Farm

At the Sahakari Spice Farm , you’ll get the chance to take in the incredible fragrance of the beautiful spice farm! These lush plantations are not all there is on offer at the spice farm though.

During your tour, you’ll be shown how to climb the trees and swing from palm to palm! If any guest on the tour is brave enough to give it a try, they’re encouraged with enthusiasm. This often creates a lot of laughs among the tour group!

For those interested in a more relaxing form of entertainment, you will be treated to a folk dance by some of the female laborers and children who live on the farm. These often contain lots of color and excitement!

• How Long Should I Spend Here? 90 minus is plenty
• Getting There – It’s a 20-minute ride from Old Goa. Get a cab.

18:00 – See a Tiatr Production

The Hanuman Theatre in Mapusa is home to some of the most incredible Tiatr! Just like Broadway there are many different types of Tiatr that take place, these all have different names and contain different entertainment elements (dancing, singing, etc.)

To be honest, it doesn’t really matter which you decide to go see, they’re all great and can be enjoyed whether you understand the words or not.

The word Tiatr comes from the Portuguese word ‘Teatro’ – meaning theatre. As you know by now, Goa is heavily influenced by the Portuguese because of its previous colonization by Portugal.

• Cost – $1.45
• How Long Should I Spend Here? 2 hours
• Getting There – Get a taxi back to Panaji and then either walk or take a Tuk-Tuk to the theatre

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

For day 2, we’re gonna head for the beaches. Pack your bag into a taxi, or jump on a bus towards Anjuna. Whether you decide to base yourself in Anjuna or Vagator is fine.

 10:00 – Relax on Little Vagator Beach

Once you’ve checked in to your new digs, hit the beach!

Although it’s free to relax on the beach, if you’d like to make use of the loungers that line the beach, you’ll have to buy something from the restaurant. This isn’t a bad deal at all, cause trust me, you’ll want to be there a while! You can have drinks and food brought to you.

While lying back on your lounger, it’ll be hard to miss the many cows that stroll past and sit on the beach alongside you. There’s nothing to be scared of though, they are very peaceful creatures!

Due to the Hindu culture in Goa, it’s illegal to kill or harm these beautiful creatures. This means that you’ll find them roaming the streets and congregating in open areas – such as the beach.

• Cost – Free – but bring money for food and drink
• How Long Should I Spend Here? A good few hours
• Getting There – Depending on where you are staying, either walk, get a cab or hire a scooter

 14:00 – Foot Massage on The Beach

After all your gallivanting around you’ll be doing during your trip, you’ll be in need of a great foot massage! Luckily for you, they offer them right on the beach – along with a variety of other treatments. So it’s about time you put your feet up and enjoyed some good ol’ relaxation!

Be sure to ask around for the best price before settling on a masseuse, some tend to charge a lot less than $6!

• Cost: Bater hard and it will by anywhere between $2 – $5

14:30 – Sea Rafting

After all that relaxing, I’m sure you’re down to try something crazy. How about a bit of sea rafting?

After about half an hour of training on the beach, you and your team will be ready to hit the waves! Don’t worry, your guide will be with you to lead you every step of the way! The waves can be a bit daunting at first, but once you’ve caught your first wave, you won’t want to stop!

Be sure to head up the beach for some beers at one of the many beach shacks that call this beach their home.

• Cost: $6.50
• How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 minutes is usually enough
• Getting There – It’s on the beach

17:00 – Dinner at Artjuna

Artjuna is one of my favourite spots in Artjuna. It is a cafe with spacious grounds where you can spend the whole day for a price of a few coffees. The food is proper decent offering a mix of Indian food, vegan grub and a few Israeli specialities.

Other excellent dinner spots include Sakana in Vagator (delicious, pricy, sushi) or you can just hit up on the beach shacks like Curries for a fish tandoori.

• Cost: $5 – $10
• How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 – 90 minutes. Service takes time in India
• Getting There – Walk, ride or jump a cab

18:00 (Onwards) – Attend a Goan Trance Party

Goan Trance (latterly Psytrance) is perhaps Goa’s greatest gift to the world and you absolutely should not miss the chance to experience a Goa Trance party first-hand. The scene emerged in and around Anjuna in the early 90’s and reached worldwide fame with “Goa parties” popping up all around the world.

The music itself, is a fast, intense and utterly trippy form of electronic dance music. If you have never heard it before, it may be a bit much for you but bear in mind that it is a sound best heard in altered states . There’s a reason Goa ranks as one of the best places in the world to party !

There are trance parties most nights during high season (Nov – Mar) but the scene is curtailed a bit during election years. My personal picks are Shiva Valley (Anjuna) on Tuesday nights and the occasional, underground parties organised by The Trip Foundation in and around Arambol. The parties start after sunset (around 18:00) and go on until well after sunrise the following morning.

Another great venue is House of Chapora (Chapora is a 10 minute aside from Anjuna). I particularly recommend following Pandora Collective who are organising 2-3 great parties each week all across North Goa – there Instagram handle is @pandoracollective.

Hilltop (Anjuna) attracts the big names but is a bit over-priced and soulless but still the Sunday afternoon sessions are nice if you want to be in bed early.

• Cost: $0 – $10
• How Long Should I Spend Here? All night!
• Getting There – Get a taxi. Walking at night in Anjuna can be risky

For day 3, we’re heading North across the river up towards Arambol. If you stayed out all night partying, either skip over the morning section of this itinerary or sack it off altogether and spend today hanging out in Anjuna’s German Bakery.

 10:30 – Ride to Querim Beach

For a taste of true paradise, you must make the 30 minute scooter ride North from Arambol towards Querim (Keri) beach. Keri is a small village set in the mangrove forests and is home to one of North Goa’s quietest beaches. You can rent a sun longer, order food and drinks from the shacks or even rent a surfboard.

As well as exploring the beach, the ride itself is also worth savouring. There is little traffic in and around Keri and plenty of back roads that lead through the forest to explore. Bring a bottle of water and sun cream and simply enjoy the experience of being in the riding seat watching beautiful Goa pass by.

• How Long Should I Spend Here? 3 hours minutes including the ride
• Getting There –  Rent a scooter and ride. Wear a helmet as the road does pass a police checkpoint.

13:00 – Fish Thali at the Thali Shack

Just by the first, main park on Arambol beach, there is a completely unassuming looking little shack (a man selling coconuts sit’s by the door). Whilst you may be tempted to walk right past, don’t; because it offers the best and possibly cheapest Thali’s in Arambol.

A Thali is a big silver tray filled with rice, veg and a few different types of curry. The options are Veg, Chicken or Fish – the latter is particularly sublime.

 14:00 – Visit the Sweet Water Lake in Arambol

The Sweet Water Lake is a freshwater lagoon with a source that originates in the Goan Jungle. The Sweet Water Lake is warmed by a natural hot spring, so going for a swim is a must in the late evening!

The Lagoon is surrounded by luscious greenery, overhanging thick jungle branches, and coconut groves. Steam rises slowly from the lagoon, making it a beautifully picturesque scene to take in, and the perfect place to snap some pics for the gram!

There is a beach just a short walk from the lagoon that is only accessible by foot. There are loads of shack’s and restaurants selling classic Goan food.

• How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 – 90 minutes
• Getting There – Walk here from Arambol beach – it is the only way!

15:00 – Join a Yoga Session

I once checked the notice board in Arambol and realised that there is a yoga class taking place somewhere in town, at every minute of the day. Arambol is a proper yoga Mecca and churns out newly qualified yoga teacher like Yale & Oxford churn out future venture capitalists and war-mongers.

Therefore you won’t have to try too hard to find a Yoga class. Either check the notice board, ask around or ask any slender, toned yogini you encounter.

17:30 – Sunset Drum Circle & Market

Every evening on Arambol beach, the place to be is the drum circle. It is literally a circle where anybody can come, bring a drum and bang it. Whilst the sound is (for me) a bit tedious, it is nevertheless a very pleasant gathering and attracts the Goa freaks who come to congregate.

From here, walk down to the sunset market where you can barter for hand made jewellery, post cards and other wares.

• Cost: $4 – $8
• Getting There – Most sessions are within walking distance from the beach

19:00 – Ecstatic Dance at The Source

Dance is a way of life in Goa. Whilst you may be exhausted from last nights trance session, I guarantee your legs will still summon the energy for one more boogie! Ecstatic Dance is a giant sober (no drugs or alcohol) party that takes place around a giant Banyan tree at the source.

You may initially need some time to get over your inhibitions (dancing sober?!) but you’ll soon get into it. Ecstatic Dance is massive fun, don’t miss it. If this is your first time in Goa, then its time to embrace your inner hippy!

• How Long Should I Spend Here? Stay as long as your energy lasts
• Getting There – Walk from the beach or get a taxi

21:00 – Late Dinner at Aladdin’s

Aladdin’s is one of Arambol’s best restaurants. It has massive menu ranging from bar-bq, Indian classics and some very interesting vegetarian dishes. It is quite pricy for Indian standards but worth it for a treat.

• How Long Should I Spend Here? Until they throw you out!
• Getting There – Walk from the Source – bring a torch though as the way is dark

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Goa

Tiswadi is the best place to stay if you’re visiting Goa for the first time. Home to the capital city, Panjim, Tiswadi is where you’ll find most of Goa’s cultural sights, the vibrant Latin Quarter, and charming Old Goa.

• Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the tomb and mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
• Explore Fontainhas, Goa’s Latin Quarter full of colonial character, cobblestone streets, and vibrant, and colourful houses.
• Be amazed at Sé Cathedral, the largest church in Asia measuring more than 76 meters long and 55 meters wide.

If you are planning a trip that is longer than 3 days in Goa, then here are a few things you need to add to your itinerary for the rest of your trip.

Arpora Night Market

The Saturday night market in Arpora is a true Goa institution. It is a weekly mega market where you can barter hard for incense, jewellery, stones, gods, clothes, sheets and wonderful things you probably don’t even know exist!

As well as being a shoppers delight, the market has plenty of food stalls and a few bars mixing Techno into the early hours.

All of the above said, the word on the street is that the sun is setting on the Arpora Night market. Apparently the conduct of management has forced a lot of boutique owners and niche designers away and they can now be found at the Hilltop Friday Night Market instead. The Night Markets are amongst the best things to do in Goa in 3 days.

Visit Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Near Ganjem

The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary contains a mini zoo so that children and adults alike can see the animals up close. Plus, it has a massive deer park, which means that the deer can roam freely in their natural habitat! It also contains a botanical garden and a rose garden, for those who love flowers!

Here you’ll be educated about the animals and the bird life, as well as the vegetation found in Goa! This is a trip that will intrigue nature-lovers, so be sure you don’t miss out!

• It’s only 38 kilometers from Margao.
• There is a jungle resort containing tourist cottages on the property, just in case you want to stay the night.
• There are plenty of different attractions, so you’re bound to find something that will suit your taste.

Visit Brahma Karmali Temple

The Brahma Karmali Temple is one of the oldest temples in Goa! The temple attracts a lot of devoted worshippers from around the region. Based in Carambolim, this temple is said to have played a pivotal role in Goa’s struggle for freedom. Many sessions were held in the building by a member of Congress during the time of struggle.

Learning about the fascinating history of this temple is spiritually moving, and exploring the temple grounds is a wonderfully relaxing experience!

• This temple is named after a nearby town – Brahma Karmali.
• The main idol inside the temple is said to date back to the 12th century.
• Visiting and exploring this temple is absolutely free.

Hike to Hivre Waterfall

This waterfall is a great place to visit for nature-lovers and adventure junkies alike! During the hike to the waterfall, you will walk along a narrow pathway through the forest. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful river creeks that wind their way through the forest.

The locals that visit the waterfall are always friendly and helpful, and don’t mind guiding tourists to the waterfall with them!

• Hivre Waterfall is popular amongst locals and tourists alike so it’s often busy, especially on weekends.
• The waterfall is located only 14 kilometers from Valpoi City.
• You will need to travel through the Thane village to get to the Hivre falls!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Goa is definitely a seasonal destination and best experienced during the Northern hemispheres winter. The crowds flock to Goa between November and February when the weather is perfect. If you come off-season, not much may be happening. The high summer months are best avoided altogether as this is when monsoon hits.

During peak tourist season in Goa, the beaches are the place to be! The water is perfect, there are nightly parties, and it never rains. As the monsoon season in Goa approaches though, the beaches become more and more empty.

However if you’re not a beach bum, then the rainy season can be equally as beautiful! During the summer in Goa, mist rises over the plantations and fields, and rain cleans the cities, leaving them smelling fresh and new. Visiting India during June will also allow you to attend the Sao Joao Festival, which is one of the coolest celebrations in Goa .

There are a number of Goa transport options available depending on where in Goa you are, where you are going and what you want to do. For example, beach towns and cities themselves are pretty easy to walk around. However, to get between them you will need an engine. Tuk-Tuk’s (Rickshaws) are available in some parts of Goa but are banned from a lot of the Northern tourist hubs. Taxi’s are easy to find but Goa’s are expensive by Indian standards.

Renting a scooter is the most popular transport method. They can be rented anywhere in Goa easily and cheaply.

Hiring a tour guide with a vehicle is also a good idea for tackling some of the suggestions on this itinerary.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with your posse, there’ll be plenty of activities to keep you occupied on your trip to Goa! Here’s just a few that you shouldn’t miss out on!

Travel in India does carry with it a set of risks and Goa is no exception.

The biggest danger is the endless raft of scams which are played on unsuspecting foreigners and of which there are too many to list. Other than this, never leave your valuables unattended and always lock your room.

Be very careful of bad drivers whether you are riding a scooter or simply a pedestrian. If you are riding a scooter, always wear a helmet.

Be careful when swimming whether in the sea or the delta as under-currents can be deadly, especially at night. Use lots of sunscreen and drink plenty of bottled, mineral water. Food hygiene is generally pretty good in Goa but use common sense.

Women travellers sadly need to be extra careful as each year they are the victims of rape, assault and even murders in Goa. Take great care at night and try to travel in a group whenever possible. Avoid dark, unlit areas as much as possible. If you are riding your bike at night, do not stop in lonely areas ( you may be being followed ). Be very careful in or around Trance parties, be mindful of what you consume and watch your drinks like a hawk.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Goa

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Goa itinerary.

How many days do you need in Goa?

Despite being India’s smallest state, Goa is packed with incredible experiences and attractions. We recommend visiting for 3-5 days minimum to make the most of it.

What should you include on a Goa 5 day itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these awesome places to visit in Goa: – Old Goa – Sahakari Spice Farm – Braganza House – Sunset Drum Circle & Market

When is the best time to visit Goa?

November-February offer the best weather for exploring Goa. March and April also get warm and have smaller tourist crowds.

Is Goa worth visiting?

Absolutely. From the verdant forests and stunning shorelines to the vibrant food and buzzing festivals, Goa is a very popular destination among travellers.

Goa is the perfect place for your next holiday destination! With white sandy beaches, a rich cultural history and some great architectural beauties, there isn’t a single thing you could possibly miss out on!

Its beautiful landscapes are begging to be explored and the culture that surrounds every building in Goa is worth learning about! No matter what time of year you choose to visit, there will always be something going on in this province. From festivals and parades to cultural ceremonies, there’s never a dull moment in Goa!

It’s a great place to travel whether you’re with your crew or a solo traveler. The safety of this beautiful province adds to the appeal of Goa for solo travelers. Be sure you’re not the only one missing out on the amazing experience of visiting Goa, India! And be sure to add a few of these great activities to your Goa Itinerary!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Suzanne Borders

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I’m confused – you have this article but also this warning people away from Goa? https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/is-goa-still-worth-visiting/

Where is the Braganza mansion (that you have mentioned close to Arambol). All search results only point to Menezes Braganza mansion in Chandor, South Goa.

Yes you are right. The Braganza mansion is in South Goa which is nowhere near Arambol at all. The writer who created this piece clearly had a moment of confusion. We have rectified the copy.

The typical mindset of western people. “watch your drinks like a hawk” hahaha! I hope you share some positivity also. Please teach your countrymen about Indian hospitality which is sorely missing in your country. I would love to read a blog about the USA itinerary mentioning “watch out for f…ing racists”

Personally I absolutely love Goa (Psytrance!!!!), have spent several months there and cannot wait to visit again. However, the FACT is that Goa can be very dangerous for women and there is no point in denying this – it doesn’t help anybody.

FYI – I am not from the US so cannot comment on American hospitality.

Good work on the blog, very helpful 🙂

This makes me want to rush to goa right now. Amazing blog

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Insider’s Guide to Goa: The Ultimate Goa Travel Guide

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

This article is an insider's travel guide to Goa, India that contains a comprehensive Goa travel guide for first-time visitors as well as returning visitors to Goa.

Goa is a phenomenal beach destination that is a crowd favourite among Indians and foreigners alike. Even though Goa is known for the buzzing beaches, cheap alcohol, raging parties, and scores of people thronging towards the beaches, this is just a tourist's perception of Goa. The real Goa is a much more laidback, serene and not to mention, hauntingly beautiful place.

Thus, having lived in Goa for over 13 years now, I've put together my insider's guide to Goa in order to show you the real Goa - one that is known to tourists and also, the other side which is known to locals. I hope you enjoy reading my comprehensive Goa travel guide.

Additionally, if you have any queries or if you think I missed out on something, feel free to drop a comment below or reach out to me via direct messaging on Instagram ( @thespicyjourney ).

Table of Contents

Insider’s Travel Guide to Goa

My insider’s travel guide to Goa contains all the information about Goa that will help you plan your entire Goa trip on your own. I understand that as a first time visitor, doing research on a particular location can get overwhelming. And so, I've put together all the information on Goa in one place for you.

This Goa travel guide has information on all the beaches, places to visit in Goa, a list of extra activities you can indulge in, references to offbeat things to do in Goa, nightlife, flea markets, and lots more. So without further ado, dive right in.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Basic Info about Goa

How many days to spend in goa, how to reach goa, best time to visit goa, goa trip cost, where to stay in goa.

• Goa Toursim Hotels

Budget Hotels in Goa

Goa beach shacks, resorts in goa, getting around goa, what to wear in goa, best places to visit in goa for sightseeing, things to do in goa - list of activities, best beaches in goa, where to eat in goa, nightlife in goa, goa flea markets, events and festivals in goa, goa travel itinerary.

• Insider's Travel Guide to Goa
• Language : Konkani is the local language of Goa. Apart from that, English is widely spoken here. Keep in mind that locals aren't well-versed in Hindi.
• ATMS : There are ample ATMs in the cities. However, finding ATMs may be difficult in the villages and in areas farther away from the main cities.
• Petrol Pumps : The situation with petrol pumps is the same as that with ATMs.
• Currency Exchange : You will find counters at the Goa International Airport and various exchange shops in the cities as well as in the tourist hot-spot areas.

The answer depends on how much of Goa you want to see. In order to explore all of Goa in-depth, you will need at least 10-14 days in Goa. However, you can cover the major sightseeing spots in Goa within 3-4 days.

My personal suggestion is that you should spend 5-7 days in Goa to get its feel and cover some of the major sightseeing spots, beaches and everything else that Goa has to offer.

Goa is the most popular beach destination in India. Thousands of tourists - local as well as foreigners arrive in Goa on a daily basis. Thus, Goa is very well connected by flights, trains and road.

Goa has one airport - the Goa International Airport which is located at Dabolim in South Goa. The Goa airport has direct flights flying between Goa and major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata, to name a few. Furthermore, the airport connects Goa to many international cities as well. Both Panjim and Margao cities are located at a distance of roughly 27 km from the Goa airport in opposite directions.

Goa has 3 main railway stations - Margao, Vasco-da-Gama and Thivim. Margao railway station in South Goa is the main hub which is connected by an extensive railway network to other parts of India. Margao or Madgaon railway station to Panaji is a distance of roughly 37 km.

One can very easily find buses to Goa from metropolitan cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad etc on the redbus website. Moreover, there are state run buses such as Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC), Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), and Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) between Goa and neighbouring states of Karnataka and Maharashtra. Alternatively, taking a road trip to Goa from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu is an option that many tourists prefer to take. The drive to Goa is scenic and there are many beautiful stops along the way.

Goa has two main seasons - the tourist season (also known as the “on” season) between October and April and the monsoon season (or the “off” season) from May to September.

The dry or the “on” season is the best time to visit Goa. This is when beach shacks are set up across most beaches in Goa, lots of events and festivals going on and the entire place is a gala feast. Plan a Goa trip during the “on” season if you want to attend events, parties and meet other travellers.

On the other hand, the monsoon season is a time when most of the Goa beaches are nearly empty and there’s very little going on. This is the time to visit Goa is you’re looking for greenery and peace and quiet.

So how much will a Goa trip cost you? The answer completely depends on how flexible your budget is.

If you’re looking to make a budget trip to Goa, then staying at hostels, eating at authentic Goan restaurants and taking local buses to get around Goa will save you a whole lot of money.

If you have a mid-range budget then you can very easily find budget and mid-range hotels in Goa. You can hire a two-wheeler instead of a cab and eat at mid-range restaurants.

On the other hand, if you're willing to splurge then you can stay at a nice resort, eat at upscale restaurants and travel around Goa in a hired cab.

Goa, being a popular backpacking destination, has many-a backpacker hostels scattered throughout the state. Most hostels in Goa are located in North Goa - near Vagator, Anjuna, Candolim and Arambol. Similarly, there are hostels at the popular beaches in South Goa as well. A bed in a dorm will typically cost between INR 400 and INR 800.

Goa Tourism Hotels

If you’re looking for hotels that provide the bare minimum comfort and amenities on a limited budget, then look into the Goa tourism hotels. There are hotels run by the state government located in Panaji, Old Goa, Calangute, Mapusa, Colva and a few other places in Goa. Book rooms at the Goa tourism hotels on the GTDC website .

Despite Goa being a popular tourist destination in India, there’s no dearth of budget hotels in Goa. You can find budget stays in every location in Goa - be it South Goa or North Goa. One way to look for budget hotels in Goa is on a site like booking.com. If not that, you can even find rooms on airbnb at low costs. Sign up to Airbnb using my referral code to get a juicy discount on your first stay.

Find hotels in Goa on Booking.com

O3 Beach Resort, Palolem Beach, Goa

The Goa beach shacks are a ubiquitous choice of stay in Goa. While beach shacks can be found at almost every beach in Goa, it’s the Palolem beach shacks that are predominantly popular in Goa. Read my comprehensive breakdown of the Palolem beach huts in my blog post on Palolem beach.

Check availability at O3 Beach Resort on Booking.com

The infinity pool at Doubletree by Hilton, Panaji, Goa

While North Goa has quite a few resorts, I highly recommend staying at a resort in South Goa. This is due to the fact that South Goa sees a fewer number of visitors as compared to North Goa which makes staying there all the more peaceful and serene. That being said, there are peaceful hotels in North Goa as well. Take Doubletree by Hilton Panaji for example (shown in the picture above). This hotel, located on the outskirts of Panjim, has sweeping views of the Goan rivers and islands as seen from the infinity pool and rooms. Moreover, the two restaurants here serve all sorts of International, Indian and Goan cuisine.

Check availability at DoubleTree by Hilton Panaji on Booking.com

Hiring a two-wheeler is the most popular and budget-friendly way to get around Goa. it’s a well-known and unfortunate fact that taxi prices in Goa are sky-high. This is the reason why renting a two-wheeler is an affordable and rather fun way to see Goa. A scooter typically costs INR 200-250 for a day whereas renting a motorbike such as Royal Enfield for a day will cost above INR 300. In case you need a taxi service at affordable rates, install the GoaMiles app to book a taxi instantly.

Unlike most of North India, you have the freedom to wear whatever you like in Goa. There are no restrictions on clothing items when it comes to choosing what to wear in Goa. While at the beaches, you can wear a bikini and shorts or short skirts, while sightseeing you can wear maxi dresses, knee-length skirts, trousers and fancy tops. Read my handy little guide on what to wear in Goa for women and girls.

1. Visit the Forts in Goa

Before the Portuguese invaded Goa in the 1500s, Goa was under the rule of the Muslim ruler Adil Shah. While Adil Shah built a number of forts for himself, after the Portuguese takeover, they modified some forts to suit their needs. Thus every fort in Goa has a rich cultural and architectural significance. Chapora Fort , Aguada Fort , Tiracol Fort, and Reis Magos Fort are the forts located in North Goa. On the other hand, Cabo de Rama Fort is a well-known fort located in the South Goa district. Each of these forts offers spectacular views of the ocean. While Chapora fort and Cabo de Rama fort don’t have any timings, since they are cliff-top ruined forts, Aguada fort and Reis Magos fort are open from the morning till 5.30 pm in the evening. Tiracol Fort, on the contrary, has been converted to the Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel . You can book a stay here to live in a palace, dine with insane ocean views and to escape the hustle-bustle of the crowds.

Check availability at Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel on Booking.com

2. Take a Ferry Boat to an Island

Divar Island near Old Goa

Most tourists coming to Goa think of it as a beach destination. While this may be true, there is lots more to do in Goa that’s beyond the beaches. There are two main islands in Goa - Divar Island and Chorao Island . Both of these islands can be reached by taking a ferry from Ribandar, which lies on the road between Panaji and Old Goa. Chorao Island is famously known for the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. You can hire a little boat, watch the mangrove, spot birds and enjoy a languid boat ride in the Goan rivers.

3. Explore Waterfalls

Dudhsagar waterfall , located on the Goa-Karnataka border is a 4-tiered, 3-streamed, 320 m high waterfall. Apart from being surrounded by a lush forest, the waterfall also contains natural pools to wade into the waters. You can reach the mighty Dudhsagar waterfalls by either completing a trek to the bottom of the walls or by going via the government-approved jeep rides that start from Molem. The waterfall has been named after its milky appearance and is a worthwhile day trip from Panjim, which is located 60 km away. Other than that, there are tons of other smaller, albeit beautiful, waterfalls scattered across Goa.

4. See the Churches

Goa was under the Portuguese rule for over 450 years from the 1500’s until 19 December 1961. Due to this reason, there are striking churches scattered all across Goa. While the Panjim church and the Old Goa church are the two famous churches in Goa, it’s the offbeat ones that steal the heart away. The Mae De Deus church and the Siolim riverside chapel are both exquisite and worth exploring!

5. Visit Old Goa

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6XRlrtDVYY/

While Old Goa may be known for the Old Goa church, there is, in fact, a lot more to do in Old Goa that only the locals know about. Whether it’s a hilltop chapel with a view of the river and islands, a hauntingly beautiful ruined church complex or a restaurant right next to the river, Old Goa has lots waiting to be discovered. You can take a half-day trip to Old Goa from Panjim, which is the closest city. Take a look at my post on all the places to visit in Old Goa to discover the hidden gems of Old Goa!

6. Go Sightseeing in Panaji

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bv_uUgmDBkh/

Panjim or Panaji is the ever-lively capital city of Goa. While one might wonder if there’s hardly anything to do in Panjim, as a matter of fact, there are lots of things to do in Panjim. Whether it’s the famous Panjim church , Dona Paula jetty , Miramar beach , the chaat street of Miramar, the colour burst region of Fontainhas , there are so many popular as well as offbeat things to do in Panjim. Read this travel guide to Panjim city  which  contains all the top places to visit in Panjim, events, festivals and lots more.

7. See Salaulim Dam

Did you know that Goa has an extremely scenic dam called the Salaulim dam hidden away? This dam is the perfect example of a duckbill spillway, is surrounded by a botanical garden where you can indulge in a picnic and is located on the river Salaulim, a tributary of the Zuari river. Panjim to Salaulim dam is a distance of 61 km while Margao to Salaulim dam is a distance of 26 km. If you’ve explored Goa many-a-times and are looking to see a different side of Goa, visit this dam and enjoy the picturesque drive along the way.

8. Explore Offbeat Goa

Lately, more and more people are inspired to explore Goa beyond the beaches. Consequently, people are driven to explore offbeat places in Goa - such as the temples, the lesser-known churches, islands, lakes etc. If you too are keen on exploring another side of Goa, take a look at this blog post on the 17 best offbeat places in Goa . 

1. Goa River Cruise

The Panjim river cruises that originate at the Santa Monica jetty in Panjim city are a great way to spend the evening cruising in the Goan rivers. The cruises usually last an hour, there are food and drink stalls present and an entertainment program which includes local dance performances. You can book tickets with various cruise companies online or book directly at the booking counters present at the jetty. Do note that it gets crowded in the evening so be prepared to wait in a queue. It’s ideal to take a cruise at 6 pm in order to catch the sunset from the boat.

2. Visit a Casino in Goa

There are lots of casinos, to indulge in a night of carefree fun, that are located in Panjim city. Most of these casinos have a package that costs approximately INR 2500 per person that includes a buffet dinner and a few complimentary chips to get you started. The ports of all the casinos of located on the main road of Panjim (DB road). You can buy your tickets right here, catch a boat to the casino and come back the same way.

3. E-Bike Tour

Want to ditch the car or motorbike and cycle around the quiet lanes of Goa? B: Live runs e-bike tours in many places all across Goa. These e-bikes are battery operated and they come with an accelerator which means that you don’t have to pedal the bicycle if you don't want to. The bikes can even go up a hill with great ease and comfort to the rider. Check out the B: Live website to choose an e-bike tour of your liking. What’s more, each tour comes with an authentic Goan experience, snacks and a tour guide who will assist you throughout the duration of the tour.

4. Heritage Walks

If you’re the one who prefers to walk around and soak in the essence of a place, then a heritage walk is the way to go for you. You can take all sorts of heritage walks which give you an authentic experience where you will learn about the history of Goa, gain an insight to the Goan culture and go back with a wealth of knowledge about Goa. Perhaps the most popular and the most loved heritage walk in Goa is the Fontainhas heritage walk . You can take a look at some of the heritage walks in the Airbnb experiences section.

5. Yacht Party

If you’re the kind of person who likes to throw lavish parties or add a magical touch to special occasions, consider renting out a yacht for a few hours. Depending on the kind of package you choose, you can get food, drink and entertainment services on board along with a wait staff. These yachts come in different budgets for all kinds of occasions ranging from birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, wedding functions to office events, social gatherings etc.

South Goa Beaches

The South Goa beaches are the laid-back beaches in Goa. As someone who has been living in Goa for over 13 years, I prefer the South Goa beaches as opposed to the North Goa beaches because of the lesser crowds and the pristine nature of the beaches. Read my guide on the South Goa beaches to explore the tranquil beaches in Goa.

North Goa Beaches

While the South Goa beaches are peaceful, the North Goa beaches are always a happening place to be at. Whether it’s a taste of the hippie culture, the best beach shacks, karaoke bars and beach clubs, you’ll find it all at the North Goa beaches. Take a look at some of my personal favourites as well as the crowd favourite North Goa beaches:

1. Arambol Beach

Did you know that Goa was a raging hippie paradise back in the ’70s? The first hippies arrived in Goa in the 1970s and settled onto the North Goa beaches of Arambol, Vagator and Anjuna. While Vagator and Anjuna are more commercialised tourist beaches, Arambol still retains the hippie spirit. Whether it’s vegan cafes, yoga centres, hippie stuff (you know what I mean), you’ll find Arambol to be the perfect hippie paradise even today. While you’re at Arambol, do not miss other great nearby beaches of Ashwem, Mandrem and Morjim, which are less popular but equally beautiful.

Read my complete travel guide to Arambol Beach, North Goa (opens in new tab).

2. Vagator Beach

In case you’re looking for a beach that has a hippie touch yet commercialised to the extent that you’ll find nice places to stay and good restaurants and cafes nearby, Vagator should be the beach of your choice. Vagator is a bustling area that’s known for the very famous Chapora fort aka the Dil Chahta Hai fort. You’ll find lots of hotels, hostels, upscale restaurants, cafes, shops and everything else in close proximity to the beach.

3. Anjuna Beach

Anjuna beach is yet another one of the North Goa beaches that’s on the way to becoming highly commercialised (read: Baga beach). Anjuna has some of the best restaurants and cafes in all of Goa. You can easily spend a whole day in Anjuna just eating at the beachside restaurants or exploring cafes nested in the tiny lanes of Anjuna.

My insider’s guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t touch upon this extremely important subject. When it comes to trying food in Goa, there’s no one list that anyone can prepare. Goa is home to so many wonderful restaurants and cafes, with new places coming up regularly that it’s hard to keep track of all the places to eat in Goa.

Nonetheless, I’ve put together 3 rough guides to Goa’s food scene. Of the three, this list of the best North Goa restaurants and cafes is perhaps the most popular of them all. Coming to Panjim city, check out this guide to the best restaurants in Panaji city . Finally, if you’re in the vicinity of the airport and need to refuel, take a look at the best restaurants near Goa airport . 

Goa has a raging nightlife that consists of nightclubs, beach clubs, karaoke bars, pubs. Pool parties, rave parties and everything else in between. There are plenty of nightclubs in the Baga-Candolim region such as LPK , Titos , etc that play Bollywood and Punjabi hits to cater to a North Indian crowd. Meanwhile, places like Favella and Soro are much classier establishments that come with a dining experience along with foot-tapping English hits. Moreover, they even have themed nights every once in a while.

Coming to Panjim city, Soho and Cafe Mojo  are the favourite pubs among the locals.

Going down south, Silent Noise in Palolem is well-known for the Saturday night parties where you dance to music while wearing headphones. In any case, you’ll find nightlife in Goa quite easily at almost every corner.

Apart from boutique stores and beach-side markets, there are quite a few flea markets in Goa. When it comes to the most popular Goa flea market, the Arpora Saturday night market tops the list. This market is held every Saturday night during the “on” season in Arpora which is located close to Anjuna and Calangute. This market has everything ranging from clothes, bags, jewellery, shoes, art and handmade artefacts. Furthermore, there are performances such as fire eaters and dancers along with live music and plenty of food stalls to choose from. Apart from this, there are lots of other markets like the Anjuna Wednesday flea market that are set-up in the tourist season.

The Goa Carnival is one of the most popular events to take place in Goa. The carnival parades are held at multiple Goan cities like Panaji, Margao, Vasco-da-Gama, and Ponda over a span of a few days late in the month of February. 

IFFI (International Film Festival of India) which is held every year in the state capital Panaji sees many movie screenings and talks attended by Bollywood as well as local celebrities. 

Coming to art festivals, Serendipity Art Festival is as big as it gets. This festival is held in the month of December at various venues in Panjim city.

While there are many events music festivals held in Goa, Sunburn , which is held late in December, is the most famous of them all that sees well-known international DJs and singers perform.

Even though this is a complete Goa travel guide to let you plan your own Goa trip, I do have a suggested itinerary for you. While I strongly suggest spending AT LEAST a week in Goa, tourists choose to spend anywhere between 2 days to months in Goa.

If you’re on a quick weekend trip to Goa, check out these places to visit in Goa in 3 days . This itinerary covers all the basics of Goa within 3 days. On the other hand, if you have more time, spend your time exploring the popular beaches and places in Goa like Arambol, Vagator, Anjuna, Panjim, Old Goa, Agonda and Palolem at the very least.

Did You Enjoy my Insider’s Guide to Goa?

If you liked reading this insider’s travel guide to Goa that I’ve put together based on my experiences of living in Goa, follow me on my social media handles  Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest , Twitter to receive quick updates and be the first one to know when I release a new blog post!

I have seen quite a bit of India but never been to Goa – looks amazing and I think I must really make a plan to go soon! Such a lovely post with such good tips 🙂

This guide is so informative- it’s great to read about Goa from someone who has lived there for so long rather than just visited. Saved for future travels 😀

Nice post!! It is really very informative content for everyone as there is many different information about the place to take decision to travel to goa with lot of memories of place which is unforgettable.

Great post and informative guide…thank you!?

Anjuna Beach is my favourite place in goa. Thanks for sharing this information to us.

Thanks for this info. I would like to add what i personally love about goa are the water sports.

Pingback: 15 amazing photos that will instantly tempt you to plan a Goa Trip! - Couple of Journeys

very useful post ,,,,these guide are very informative….thanks for sharing…

Comments are closed.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Goa Dabolim International Airport Guide

Top Places to Visit in Goa

72 Hours in Goa

Day Trips From Goa

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Yoga Retreats and Wellness Resorts

Top Restaurants in Goa

Nightlife in Goa

Your Trip to Goa: The Complete Guide

Let's face it. Most people visit Goa for the beaches and parties. However, there's plenty more to experience. The Portuguese occupied Goa for about 450 years until the Indian Armed Forces finally drove them out in 1961.   The state was also a significant destination on the 1970s hippie trail. As a result, it's quite unlike anywhere else in India and has a distinctly different culture. This Goa guide will help plan your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Goa's tourist season runs from October to March, when the weather is warm and dry. Most beach shacks open in November. They pack up by April or May due to the extreme heat and humidity. The southwest monsoon brings rain from June to September.
• Language: Konkani is the native language of most Goans, however, English and Hindi are widely understood and spoken.  
• Currency: Indian rupee.
• Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. Goa does not observe daylight saving time.
• Getting Around: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are the most common methods of transportation. Unfortunately, the notorious Goan taxi mafia keeps fares high and prevents app-based cabs such as Uber from operating. There is a state-run, app-based taxi service called GoaMiles . The Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus is an inexpensive way of reaching Goa's tourist attractions. Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is popular and affordable.
• Travel Tip: The monsoon season in Goa is ideal for spending time in the state's mountainous interior hinterland. White water rafting is possible.

Things to Do

Most people are surprised at how many things there are to do in Goa apart from the beach and nightlife. This includes water sports and adventure activities , hot air ballooning, cooking lessons, exploring old forts, seeing the spice plantations, browsing museums and art galleries, bird watching at Doctor Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, hiking in the nature reserves, yoga and natural therapies, cruising along the Mandovi River in a private yacht , betting at the casinos , listening to live jazz music, and of course shopping. Active travelers can go on these off-beat electric bicycle tours or walking tours .

Three of the main things to do in Goa are:

• Hanging out at the Wednesday flea market at Anjuna beach, Friday Goa Collective Bazaar at Hilltop near Vagator, and Saturday Night Market at Arpora (between Anjuna and Baga). These markets are seasonal.
• Wandering around Old Goa and the Fontainhas Latin Quarter .
• Touring the Portuguese mansions in South Goa .

Find out more about the top places to visit in Goa and cultural things to do in Goa beyond the beaches .

What to Eat and Drink

Goan cuisine was influenced mainly by the Portuguese and is predominantly non-vegetarian. Lesser-known is the traditional cuisine of the state's Hindu Saraswat Brahmin community. Fish curry and rice is a ubiquitous staple in Goa. Common types of dishes you'll find on the menu are xacutti (coconut-based curry), cafreal (marinated and fried/grilled), sorpotel (stew), recheado (stuffed), ambot tik (sour and spicy), and vindaloo (fiery curry marinated with garlic and vinegar or wine). Goan chourico (sausages) and pao (bread) are popular as well. However, you'll need to venture away from the beach shacks to get authentic Goan food.

Feni is Goa's pungent local brew and the unofficial state drink. It's made from cashew fruit or the sap of coconut palms. Drink it with tonic water or lemonade and a slice of lime. Avoid cheap, commercially produced feni though, as it has a distinctively unpleasant smell. Instead, try and get your hands on some home-distilled feni ( Dudhsagar Plantation Farmstay makes their own). Or, a bottle of premium Big Boss or  Cazulo feni. It's now possible to go straight to the source of Cazulo feni, as the company has opened its cellar in the Cansaulim foothills for tours and tastings. Call 8605-008-185 to book. Joseph Bar in Panjim's Fontainhas Latin Quarter crafts some innovative feni cocktails. On the beach, King's beer goes well with a curry.

Explore the best Goan cuisine restaurants for all budgets and hottest bars and beach shacks in Goa .

Where to Stay

Goa's coastline extends for about 100 miles. Every beach is different , and there are so many types of accommodations ranging from beach huts to luxury private villas. It can be confusing! If you're looking for action, base yourself in North Goa because South Goa is relatively undeveloped and laid-back. Most of the luxury hotels are situated in South Goa. Palolem is the most happening beach in South Goa, while Agonda is ideal for chilling out and doing nothing. Patnem offers a bit of both. In North Goa, the Candolim-Calangute- Baga stretch of beaches is especially commercialized and gets super crowded during peak season. Backpacker hostels are prevalent near Anjuna beach, and the famous Wednesday flea market takes place there as well. The remaining psychedelic trance scene exists around Vagator beach, the Mandrem-Morjim-Ashwem stretch of beaches has become quite trendy, while Arambol beach is the new traveler's center with a wide range of alternative therapies. Capital city Panjim is centrally located between north and south Goa. Its Fontainhas Latin Quarter is an atmospheric neighborhood to stay in a restored Portuguese mansion.

Discover Goa's best homestays, budget accommodations, and yoga retreats, and wellness resorts .

Getting There

Goa has one airport. It's an international airport that operates out of a military airbase in Dabolim, roughly equal distance from Goa's north and south beaches. Most people take a prepaid taxi from the airport to their hotel. There's a counter in the arrivals terminal where you can book and pay. A shuttle bus service also runs from the airport to Panjim, Calangute, and Margao. It can be booked online here or at the airport.

Indian Railways train is another option for getting to Goa. It's handy for budget travelers, and conveniently has multiple stops in north and south Goa. The stretch from Mumbai to Goa along the Konkan Railway is particularly scenic. Here are the best trains from Mumbai to Goa .

Culture and Customs

Goa is more liberal than other states in India. This means women can wear short dresses and bikinis on the beach. There's no need to dress conservatively.

Scams are common in Goa, including the infamous gem scam . Beware of any Indian guys who try to befriend you. People offering to sell you drugs may also approach you. Don't accept, as dealers often have arrangements with the police. The police are corrupt and will extort money from tourists found in possession of illegal substances such as marijuana. The cops often demand bribes for traffic violations too. If you hire a motorcycle or scooter, make sure you carry your license with you and wear a helmet at all times.

While Goa has a reputation for being a party hub there are very strict drug laws. Those caught with drugs could face jail times of 6 months to 30 years and there is no option for bail.  

Money-Saving Tips

• Hotels offer huge discounts of up to 50 percent during the low season from May to September.
• There are many budget accommodations in Goa that don't advertise on the Internet. If you're not traveling during peak season (mid-December to mid-January), turn up and find a place and negotiate the rate.
• Stay in a dorm or private room in a backpacker hostel.
• Keep an eye out for happy hours and ladies' nights at bars for cheap or free drinks.
• Make sure you bargain at markets to get a good deal.

Encyclopedia Britannica. "Portuguese India."

Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Languages."

Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Laws."

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• Destinations

Travel to Goa: A Complete Guide for First-Timers

Goa is a top tourist destination for travelers coming to India. With its rich history, stunning beaches and chilled out vibes, it’s no question why everyone should travel to Goa!

A vacation to Goa is unlike a vacation you will take anywhere else in India. The culture and lifestyle is unique and it’s accustomed to welcoming tourists from all over the world.

Get ready to travel to Goa with this guide. You’ll find information in this post about the best time to visit, best beaches, things to do, what to pack, and more!

Goa is situated on India’s western coast. For a long time, it was a Portuguese colony under Portuguese control. It became India’s smallest state when it officially joined the country in 1987. When you travel to Goa today, you can easily see the history in its colonial architecture. 

Goa is most famous for its beautiful beaches! It’s a great place to relax, swim, enjoy water sports or just soak in the sun. While many tourists travel to Goa for a relaxing beachy-type getaway, there are also breathtaking places to visit inland with its tropical climate.

This post is all about travel to Goa.

Travel to Goa

Best time to visit goa.

The best time to visit Goa is in the winter between November – March. This is the peak season and has the best weather. The average temperature at this time is around 80 degrees F (27C). It’s perfect because it’s sunny, not too hot, and no rain.

March – May isn’t the best time to visit Goa because it becomes really hot (especially in May!). But, it’s still okay to travel if you don’t mind the heat, plus you can cool off in the sea. The average temperature is in the upper 80s (30C), but the air feels heavy and hot.

Don’t plan to travel to Goa between June – October. This is monsoon season! Many shops, stalls, food joints, and beach restaurants completely close down during these months and there is not much to do. Expect it to rain every day if you travel then.

I have traveled to Goa during monsoon several times, but the whole vibe is very different. There is not a lot of excitement and not many people around. Things are closed and you can’t spend much time at the beach because it rains all the time.

Travel to Goa (How to get there and how to get around)

There are 2 major airports in Goa: Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport) is in central/south Goa near the capital city, Panaji. Manohar International Airport is a new airport in North Goa.

You can get a pre-paid taxi from either airport to your stay. I recommend hiring pre-paid ones unless you feel confident you can bargain and get a fair price otherwise. Pre-paid taxi services have set rates and will have a chart with various cities and cost for each. You can take your taxi driver’s number if they are willing and have them drive you back to the airport at the end of your trip too!

Once you are at your stay in Goa, it’s common for tourists to rent a scooty (moped). In the smaller beach towns, it’s very easy to get around with minimal traffic. The traffic in the cities like Panaji or Mapusa is also reasonable to drive in if you’re comfortable (unlike other cities in India!).

In the beach towns, you won’t find rickshaws. If you don’t want to rent a scooty, you can ask your hotel for a taxi and they should be able to provide you with a contact. It’s very easy to find a driver if you ask around.

Best Places to Stay in Goa (AKA the best Goa beaches!)

When looking for the best places to stay in Goa, one of the first choices you’ll have to make is if you want to travel to North or South Goa. North Goa is known for its lively beaches, vibrant nightlife, and touristy vibe. South Goa offers a more serene and tranquil atmosphere with less-crowded beaches and a focus on relaxation.

To be honest, I think no matter where you go you can enjoy your vacation the way you want to. Parties don’t only happen in the north and you can still find relaxing, chilled out beach vibes away from the south.

Here are some of the best beaches depending on what you are looking for. For more suggestions on where to stay, check out these best 7 beaches in Goa !

Arambol or Anjuna : These are in north Goa and are popular for their hippy and party vibes.

Palolem : Located in South Goa, this is a great chilled out beach with a lot to do. It’s great for families traveling to Goa. 

Baga or Calangute : These are the best beaches in Goa if you’re an adventure seeker looking to enjoy water sports.

Things to Do in Goa

Naturally, the top things to do in Goa are at the beach! Most people traveling to Goa will enjoy relaxing on the shores and swimming in the sea. Imagine your typical beach vibes vacay.

You can also enjoy delicious food at the beach sacks and have a candlelight dinner with your toes in the sand after sunset.

Travelers can also enjoy various water sports, depending on the beach you’re at. There’s surfing, parasailing, kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, and more! There are a ton of companies and little businesses that can set you up with everything you need for cheap prices.

Panaji and Mapusa are the main cities in Goa. I wouldn’t recommend staying there because they are just typical city places and you’ll have a more relaxing or adventurous time elsewhere. But, you can spend a day or two exploring the cities and taking in the colonial architecture. There are some beautiful churches to see.

Waterfalls, Museums, Nature, and more!

Stepping away from the beach, there are many stunning things to do inland as well. You can visit different museums to learn about the history and culture. There are also nice waterfalls to hike around and enjoy. For more ideas on things you can do besides sunbathing in the sand, check out these popular Goa tourist places away from the beach !

Packing and Goa Outfit Ideas

Goa has a lot of tourists, and that means how you pack for Goa is not similar to other places in the country! Many places in India are more conservative and you would want to cover up. In Goa, anything works.

You can wear bikinis, shorts, and tank tops around Goa. If you are at a beach with less foreign tourists or traveling during monsoon/down season, you will get some stares. But in general, if you are at a popular beach with other foreign travelers, it’s common to see more skin.

I wear shorts, t-shirts and tank tops daily when I stay in Goa. You can also pack cute dresses and swim coverups. Basically, just pack as you normally would if you’re going for a beach vacation.For more details on what to include in your suitcase, check out this ultimate India packing list !

Nearby Destinations in India

Many tourists who travel to Goa also combine their trip with other destinations in India. Here are some popular nearby places to visit before or after you visit Goa!

Mumbai is a 1-1.5 hour flight from Goa. There are also overnight trains and buses for cheap. Mumbai is a popular city in India for tourists and is a famously safe city for female travelers. You can spend a few days in Mumbai in addition to your trip to Goa. Mumbai will give you a peak at city life in India. There are some popular tourist sites like the Taj Hotel, Gateway of India and Marine Drive that are worth checking out. You can also find a ton of unique and delicious restaurants or join in the vibrant nightlife scenes. To experience the city more like a local, check out these 15 unique things to do in Mumbai !

Kochi is the most popular city in Kerala for tourists and is only a 1.5-2 hour flight from Goa. Trains and buses are also cheaply available and run overnight. 

Kerala is famous for its incredible landscapes and breathtaking nature. There are some amazing nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries to visit! It also has a rich culture and delicious south Indian food.

Kochi is a great city to visit and you can find a lot of travel companies to arrange for small day trips nearby. I recommend taking a boat ride along the Kochi backwaters. You’ll enjoy a day seeing the lagoons, canals, and estuaries that Kochi is famous for.

There’s no airport in Hampi, but you can take a train or bus from Goa to reach there. It’s between 6-10 hours and is a cheap ride. You can also hire a driver.

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the neighboring state, Karnataka. It’s famous for its ancient ruins and has beautifully carved temples. The history here is rich and it’s incredible seeing the ancient architecture.

The natural landscape is unique and is full of giant boulders and hills. Some people say it was the playground for Hanuman, the monkey god. It’s very easy to find a spot to enjoy incredible views of the sunrise and sunset!

Extra Tips for Traveling to Goa

• Be ready to bargain! If you’re shopping in markets or street stalls, don’t accept the first price you’re given. I suggest countering with 50% of the price you’re first given, and work your way from there. It’s very normal for people to bargain when buying things from little shops or people on the beach.
• I recommend carrying cash, but hotels and restaurants will generally accept cards or Gpay. Cash is generally easier though because the wifi and service coverage can be spotty.
• You can get a SIM card from the airport or from small shops around popular beach towns. Don’t expect to have perfect coverage everywhere you go, but it should mostly work and many hotels offer wifi.

This post was about everything you need to know to travel to Goa.

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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

The Best of Goa | 7 Day Travel Itinerary + Guide

Welcome to the Ultimate Goa Travel Guide , designed to help you make the most of your 7-day adventure in the beautiful Indian coastal paradise, of Goa. Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, or cultural experiences, Goa has something to offer everyone, and this 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary and Guide , has it all. In this Goa Travel Guide, we’ll provide you with a suggested 7 Day itinerary to explore the best of North Goa, South Goa, and Panjim, along with key insights on the best time to visit Goa, must-visit places in Goa, offbeat experiences to do in Goa, and the best resort in Goa, India.

Day 1: Arrival in North Goa

Day 2: explore north goa, day 3: road trip from north goa to south goa, day 4: discover offbeat things to do in south goa, day 5: dive into south goa, day 6-7: immerse yourself in panjim, coconut creek resort | bogmalo, goa, feni and tapas food trail in old latin quarters, fontainhas heritage walk, e-bike tour to divar island, attending a drum circle, visiting salaulim dam, 7 day goa travel itinerary – summary, share this:, the best of goa – 7 day travel itinerary.

• Start your journey by arriving in Goa, preferably during the best month to visit Goa, which is typically between November and March, offering pleasant weather.
• Prefer to land at the Manohar Parrikar International Airport in MOPA, as you’ll be c hecking in into your accommodation in North Goa, known for its lively atmosphere and bustling beaches. Check out the Best Hotels in North Goa here and save upto 50%.
• Pro Tip – Make your life easy, by pre-booking a Rental Car in Goa. The vehicle can be picked up at the Airport, and make sure to do a proper visual inspection, and even take a video, before taking the keys. Car Rentals in Goa start for as less as ₹ 1400 – 2000 / day.
• Spend the evening at any of the famous beaches in North Goa, such as Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Arambol Beach, famous for its nightlife and beachside shacks.
• Begin your day with a visit to the historic Aguada Fort / Chapora Fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
• Head to Anjuna Beach to experience its bohemian vibes and browse the flea market. 
• Enjoy traditional Goan cuisine at Vinayak Family Restaurant and Gunpowder in Assagao. These are some of the Best Restaurants in North Goa , that you should definitely check out.
• Head to any of the popular beach clubs of Goa such as Mayan Beach Club, Thalassa Goa, Purple Martini, Titlie Goa for an epic sundowner.
• If possible, attend a drum circle.Attending a Drum Circle is one of the best things to do in Goa, and these Drum Circles are organised regularly on Arambol Beach, Morjim Beach, Anjuna Beach among others. Just ask the locals, they’ll be able to help you with the latest information.

PS – Useful Travel Resources that will help you plan better for your Trip to Goa

• Book the best Goa Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
• Book your Accommodation in Goa on Agoda or Booking.com
• Book your Goa Car Rentals on Go Goa Car Rentals or Ezee Car Rent
• Book your flights at the cheapest rates on Kiwi.com
• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Goa, and lounge for free at Premium Airport Lounges
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free vacation in Goa
• Check out from your North Goa accommodation and head to South Goa, which is less crowded and known for its tranquillity. 
• We recommend the Coconut Creek Resort near Bogmalo Beach. The resort, is one of the best in Goa, India;  has an inviting swimming pool, it’s surrounded by greenery, has an amazing in house restaurant serving the best dishes of Goa, and is just a 3 minute from Bogmalo Beach, which is a relatively cleaner and less crowded beaches of South Goa.
• Head out and experience the best Goan dishes such as Chicken Xacuti, Prawn Vindaloo, Pork Sorpotel, at Martin’s Corner or at Fisherman’s Wharf, which are some of the Best Places to Eat in South Goa.
• Explore offbeat destinations in South Goa, near Bogmalo Beach, such as Kesarwal Spring Waterfall and the Heart Shaped Lake.
• Visit the Paul John Distillery and do the distillery and tasting tour. Its one of those experiences, that might as well turn out to be one of the highlights of your trip to Goa. However, do enquire beforehand, and confirm the slot timings for your visit.
• Head further south to experience the calm at Majorda Beach, and the less touristy Cabo Da Rama Beach and Cola Beach and lagoon. If weather permits, enjoy a beautiful sunset from any of these beaches.
• Enjoy a traditional Goan Seafood Thali at any of the local eateries and pair it up with some Goan Feni – the local liquor made from cashew and coconut.
• Put the location on Google Maps as Salaulim Gardens, and head to one of the most beautiful and underrated tourist attraction in Goa – The Salaulim Dam. Even though, it’s a bit far from other popular sights in Goa, the drive to Salaulim Dam is very beautiful and the untouched beauty of the dam, makes it worth the effort of going the extra mile.
• If weather permits, also check out the famous Dudhsagar Waterfalls, which also happens to be one of the tallest waterfalls in India and one of the Most Beautiful Waterfalls in India , nestled in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. Enquire about all the information required to explore Dudhsagar Waterfall from the reception desk of your hotel in South Goa.
• Drive back to your South Goa hotel, and just relax by the pool. Enjoy a delectable dinner spread at the in house restaurant of your South Goa hotel.
• Check out from your South Goa Hotel and head to Panjim, the charming state capital.
• We recommend staying near Miramar Beach, or in the heart of Panjim – The Old Latin Quarters, in a heritage property. Check out the Best Hotels in Panjim here and avail upto 50% discounts on your booking.
• Spend your days in Panjim, exploring historic sites like the Fontainhas Latin Quarter, the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, and the Reis Magos Fort, and the nearby Divar Island. 
• Do the Fontainhas Heritage Walking Tour by Make It Happen Goa , to know more about the history of the iconic Old Latin Quarter of Panjim.
• Discover the beauty of Divar Island, by doing an E – Bike Tour by B:Live E – Bike Tours Goa , and combine the adventure of cycling with the ease of cruising .
• Take a cruise along the Mandovi River and enjoy the vibrant Goan culture.
• Go on a culinary adventure by joining the Feni and Tapas Trail by Make It Happen , and try out some yummy crafted Feni based cocktails, along with Goan and Portuguese inspired food dishes, at some of the Best Restaurants in Panjim.
• Try out your luck at any of the many famous Casinos in Panjim. Gambling is legal in Goa, if you didn’t already know.
• Goan Cashews
• The Goan Spices
• Homegrown Gins produced in Goa – Tickle Gin, Satiwa Passion Hemp Gin, Udaipur Gulaab Gin, Pumori Small Batch Gin, Matinee Gin, among others.
• Other Goan liquors – Cabo Rum, Goan Feni and Port Wine.
• The Portuguese inspired azulejos tiles.
• Edible Goan souvenirs – Goan Pork Chorizo Sausages, Bebinca, Prawn Balchao and Mackarel Molho (Goan Pickles)
• Mario Miranda’s Goan Themed paintings / fridge magnets.
• Departure from Goa (by flight, train or bus) in the evening of the last day of this 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary.

Best Resort in Goa | India

The highlight of my Trip to Goa has to be the beautiful experience at Coconut Creek Resort Goa , where the staff literally went above and beyond to make my experience memorable. 

Welcome to Coconut Creek Resort | Bogmalo, Goa

Here are 5 Reasons that make Coconut Creek Resort near Bogmalo Beach, stand out in the list of the Best Hotels and Resorts in South Goa, India.

Apart from the stay, the highlight was the epic Goan culinary experience that Chef Aniket took us on. We tried some of the best Goan local dishes such as Chicken Xacuti , Pork Sorpotel , Prawn Curry , Lamb Chops , a variety of local Goan fish delicacies , and the famous Goan Caramel Pudding.

Coconut Creek Go a is without a doubt one of the Best Resorts in South Goa , India ; and is still one of the hidden gems. 

If you are heading to Goa, I would highly recommend you to make Coconut Creek Goa as your base, and explore the best of Goa from here. Staying at Coconut Creek Goa, might very well turn out to be one of the highlights on your 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary as well.

Book your stay at the Coconut Creek Resort in Goa, by clicking here . Make sure to book it in advance, as this resort in Goa, India; runs fully booked, specially in the season, which is from October – March.

5 Unique Experiences to tick off in Goa

Dive into the culinary heritage of Goa with a Feni and Tapas Food Trail in the Old Latin Quarters. This experience combines the delightful flavours of Goan cuisine with Goa’s iconic spirit, Feni. Start your gastronomic journey at a traditional tavern/bar, where you’ll be introduced to Feni, a locally distilled liquor made from cashews.

Stop at local eateries and restaurants to try some unique Feni based cocktails, and savour a variety of tapas-style dishes, each bursting with flavours that reflect Goa’s culinary diversity. From seafood delights like prawn resois to vegetarian options like mushroom xacuti, you’ll indulge in a wide range of Goan specialties.

This food trail in Goa not only offers a delectable blend of culture and cuisine, allowing you to experience Goa through its flavours, from traditional to contemporary, all in the heart of the historic Latin Quarter; but can turn out to be of the best experiences in Goa during your 7 Day Trip to Goa.

Use the code “AMMIH10” to get a flat 10% discount on the Feni and Tapas Trail and Fontainhas Heritage Walk and other awesome experiences, such as the Latin Quarter Food Trail, Old Goa Heritage Walk, Campal Heritage Walk, Chronicles of Divar Island with Lunch, among others by Make It Happen Goa. 

Click Here to Book Your Experiences with Make It Happen Goa.

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Goa by embarking on a Fontainhas Heritage Walk. Fontainhas, located in Panjim, is the Latin Quarter of Goa and one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods in the state.

This guided heritage walk takes you through winding streets lined with colourful Portuguese-style houses adorned with artistic azulejos (hand-painted ceramic tiles). As you stroll through the narrow lanes, you’ll be transported back in time, learning about the Portuguese influence on Goan architecture, culture, and lifestyle.

Your knowledgeable storyteller will share fascinating stories about the heritage homes, quaint chapels, and local traditions. This immersive experience allows you to soak in the charm of Fontainhas, providing insights into Goa’s unique blend of European and Indian influences. It’s a perfect way to appreciate the Goa’s cultural diversity and architectural beauty.

L – Taken during the Fontainhas Heritage Walk 

R – Taken during the Divar Island E – Bike Tour

Experience the serene beauty and tranquil landscapes of Divar Island in an eco-friendly and exciting way with an E-Bike tour. Divar Island, located in the Mandovi River, is known for its lush greenery, traditional Goan villages, and idyllic countryside.

Your E-Bike adventure begins with a short ferry ride across the river from Old Goa to Divar Island.

Once there, you’ll hop on an electric bicycle, a sustainable mode of transport that allows you to explore the island without harming the environment. Pedal through narrow roads flanked by paddy fields, explore charming villages, and interact with friendly locals.

Highlights of the tour include a visit to the Our Lady of Compassion Church, enjoying scenic viewpoints, and taking in the peaceful ambiance of the island. The E-Bike tour provides an offbeat and eco-conscious way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and culture of Divar Island, making it a memorable and sustainable adventure in Goa. So make sure to add the Divar Island E – Bike Adventure on your 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary.

Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats and positive energy of Goa by attending a Drum Circle. This unique and vibrant experience takes place at various beaches, cultural centers, and open spaces throughout Goa.

A Drum Circle is a gathering of people who come together to play percussion instruments, creating mesmerising and spontaneous music. These gatherings are not only about music but also about community, connection, and creative expression.

As the rhythms intensify, you’ll find yourself in a trance-like state, dancing and swaying to the hypnotic sounds. It’s a fantastic way to connect with fellow travellers and locals, experience Goa’s vibrant arts scene, and enjoy an evening of music and free-spirited fun.

PS – Just search for Goa Drum Circle on Instagram or Facebook to get to know about the different drum circles happening and the locations.

Escape the usual tourist crowds and head to Salaulim Dam, a hidden gem nestled amidst the Western Ghats in South Goa. The Salaulim Dam is one of Goa’s lesser-known attractions, offering a serene and picturesque setting surrounded by lush greenery.

The dam not only serves as a water reservoir but also provides a peaceful atmosphere for nature enthusiasts. You can visit the dam to take in breathtaking views of the reservoir and the surrounding hills. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season when the dam is at its fullest, creating a mesmerising spectacle of cascading water.

Visiting Salaulim Dam is an offbeat experience that allows you to connect with Goa’s natural beauty and offers a refreshing change of pace from the more touristy destinations. You can combine a trip to Salaulim Dam with a visit to Dudhsagar Waterfalls – One of the tallest waterfalls in India.

Whether you’re interested in history, food, or eco-friendly exploration, these unique experiences in Goa offer something special for every traveller, allowing you to connect with Goa’s heritage, cuisine, and natural wonders.

Day 1 –  Arrival in Goa | Stay in North Goa | Try some local Goan cuisine | Relax by the beach

Day 2 –  Explore any of the famous forts – Aguada / Chapora / Tiracol Fort / Reis Magos Fort | Sundowner at any of the famous Goa Beach Clubs | Attend a Drum Circle

Day 3 –  Head to South Goa | Try out local Goan food at any of the Famous Restaurants in Goa | Check in to any of the Best Resorts in South Goa

Day 4 –  Discover offbeat locations in South Goa | Explore Cola Beach and Cabo de Rama Beach | Catch a beautiful sunset 

Day 5 – Visit the Dudhsagar Waterfall | Drive to Salaulim Dam | Visit the Paul John Distillery  

Day 6 –  Divar Island E – Bike Tour | Go souvenir shopping | Feni and Tapas Trail

Day 7 –  Fontainhas Heritage Trail | Day at leisure | Departure from Goa

We hope, that you found this Goa Travel Guide containing the 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary covering the best of North Goa, South Goa, and Panjim, to be helpful. Remember to plan your visit during the best months to visit Goa (October – March), for the most enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking for beachfront relaxation, cultural immersion, or vibrant nightlife, Goa has it all.

Use this Goa Travel Guide as a roadmap, to plan your trip to Goa, and to create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise.

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Goa Travel Guide 2024: How To Travel Within Goa, Clothing, and Safety Tips

Goa is one of the best places to visit in India and offers activities for all kinds of travelers. From exploring the ruins of Old Goa to watching dolphins in the Arabian Sea, there are a lot of things to do here.

And in order to enjoy it, you need to plan your trip to Goa carefully. This is why I have prepared this Goa Travel Guide.

In this travel guide, you will find all the information such as the history of Goa, how to travel in Goa, tips for responsible traveling in goa, ATM availability, and more.

An In-Depth Travel Guide For Goa

When to visit goa.

Goa is famous for its beaches and experiences a tropical climate, making winter the best time to visit the state. The tourist season in Goa lasts from November to March when the weather is moderately pleasurable.

If you plan in any other months, you will find the sun too hot or too much humidity in the area which makes traveling in Goa miserable for the visitors.

Summer is absolutely the worst time to visit Goa but the monsoon period is great for exploring the natural side of Goa. At this time, the Arabian Sea becomes dangerous and the beaches become inaccessible to visitors.

However, if you want to enjoy the waterfalls, lagoons, national parks, etc. in Goa, then the monsoon is a good time to visit. Do remember that beach shacks, huts, and several water activities are not operational at this time.

How to Travel in Goa

Once you have reached Goa, the next thing that you have to figure out is how to travel in Goa. This is extremely important because Goa is huge and going from one point to another often takes 45-60 minutes.

Thankfully, Goa has plenty of both private and public transportation options. So, you can consider your budget and preference while choosing the best mode of transport in Goa.

Public transportation includes buses that link all the major villages and towns of Goa. And hired transport options include auto-rickshaws, prepaid taxis, taxi bikes, car rentals, scooty, and more.

Here are a few ways that you can travel to Goa to explore this beautiful city.

Travel To/From Dabolim Airport

A lot of people are not aware of this but a local bus runs Dabolim International Airport to Vasco Da Gama. I have taken this bus which takes around 20 minutes to reach Vasco Da Gama Bus Stand and costs approximately 20 INR.

From Vasco Da Gama, you can get buses to Madgaon (for South Goa) or Panjim (for North Goa).

Where is the Bus Stop at Dabolim International Airport?

The bus stop at the airport is on the main highway to the right side of the airport exit doors. Once you get out of the airport, turn right and walk downwards towards the highway.

As soon as the public road begins, turn left and you will find a few local buses parked here that will take you to Vasco Da Gama.

How to Reach Dabolim International Airport?

If you want to reach the Dabolim Airport then you can take a shuttle from Panjim to Vasco Da Gama or the airport. From Vasco Da Gama, you have a couple of local buses going to the Airport every 10-15 minutes. And the whole thing would cost you barely 50 – 80 INR.

Budget Options

Bus Cost: Approximately INR 10 for 2-3 km Bicycle Rental Cost: INR 150 – 300 per day Ferries Cost: Free

Bus Service in Goa

Buses are the cheapest way to travel in Goa and connect all the villages and towns in this state. You will find amazing bus service in Goa to connect North and south parts of the state

You would not get a direct bus from South Goa to North Goa, it is still possible to explore the entire city using buses.

One thing to remember is that Madgaon and Panjim are two major bus stations in Goa. You will get buses to most of the places from here. Here is a little detailed route by bus if you want to reach these places:

• Madgaon Railway Station – From Madgaon Railway Station, you get a local bus to the Madgaon Bus Stand. It usually takes 15-20 minutes to reach the bus stand and costs around 20 INR.
• From the Madgaon Bus Stand, you get buses to South Goa like Colva, Benaulim, etc. You also get a bus/shuttle to Panjim from here.
• You will also get shuttles from Panjim to Madgaon which will take barely 45 minutes to reach and will cost you about 80 INR.
• Baga Beach – Once you reach Panjim, you can take a bus to reach North Goa like Baga, Candolim, etc. One thing to remember is that these buses usually take time but will cost you just 20-50 INR.
• Panjim – You will get a bus to Panjim from most of the places since it is a major point in Goa. Although, in some cases, you might need to change the bus at one point.
• Arambol – If you want to reach Arambol, then you will first need to take a bus to Morjim from Panjim. From the Morjim bus stand, you will need to take another bus to Arambol. In total, it would take you around 2 hours to reach Arambol from Panjim in a bus.

Shuttle Buses are quick and don’t stop at all the bus stops. So, if you are heading to the airport or the railway station then shuttle buses are the best way to travel.

Bicycle Rental

If you are traveling in Goa in the high season (December to February), then you can easily find bicycles to rent here.

You can rent bicycles daily or weekly basis and will find plenty of bicycle rental shops all over Goa.

If you are planning to stay for a month or more, then you can also ask for discounted rates on the bicycle.

Two-Wheeler Taxis in Goa

Another great option for local traveling in Goa that I became aware of during this year’s trip was the two-wheeler taxis also known as motorcycle taxis or pilots. In these taxis, you sit as a pillion rider behind a motorbike rider and reach any place for a fixed amount.

This is affordable and a great option for solo travelers who are planning a budget trip to Goa.

When you are traveling to other islands from the mainland such as Divar Island, Chorao Island, etc., you will need to take a ferry.

Thankfully, government-run ferries operate on such routes and don’t charge anything from the tourists or the locals.

Mid-Range Options

Taxi Cost: INR 8 – 10 per km or more Auto Rickshaw Cost: INR 7 per km or more Car or Scooty Rental Cost: INR 800 – 3000 per day for a car, INR 200 – 500 per day for scooty

Cabs and Taxis

If you want comfort and convenience and money is not an issue, then you can rent a cab in Goa.

However, this is definitely an expensive way to explore Goa. Generally, drivers charge an outrageous amount for a trip that might not be suitable for budget travelers.

The government has fixed prices for auto-rickshaws and cabs but a lot of drivers don’t follow this pricing. You can either pre-book them or flag them down on the road.

Prepaid Pricing – One thing to keep in mind is that the government has set prices for the different routes in Goa for the tourists. You can ask the driver to show you this official pricing before you agree to the price mentioned by them.

Dabolim Airport to Panjim – This will easily cost you about 1000 – 1500 INR so rent a cab in Goa sparingly.

Goa Miles – To rent a cab in Goa that is affordable, you can download the Goa Miles app. Generally, you find cabs and taxi bikes that will cost almost half of what they would normally charge you.

Rented Self-Drive Cars/Bikes

One of the best things to do in Goa for an easy and convenient trip is to rent a car/two-wheeler. You have a lot of rental shops throughout Goa which will give you a car/two-wheeler on rent.

A self-driven car will generally cost you around 1500 INR for a 7-seater in the off-season and weekdays. However, if you visit this city for a long weekend or the peak season then expect to pay around 2500 – 3000 INR for a 7-seater car.

As for the scooty, you can get it for 200-400 INR for a day throughout the year. One thing to remember is that make sure you ask for all the essential papers and helmets when renting the car/scooty.

A lot of times, they might rent you a car that doesn’t have required papers for driving around the entire Goa or you might not have a helmet for all the riders on the scooty.

Luxury Option (Private Driver)

If money is not a constraint for you, then you can rent a car with a private driver for your Goa trip. The cost of the private chauffeur will depend on where you made the booking.

However, the cost of renting a cab with a driver for 8 hours or a full day can range between 3,000 – 5,000 INR inclusive of driver fee, car, and fuel.

Since this is a full-day service, you should use it when you are planning a full day of sightseeing. If you are going to be traveling for just a couple of hours, you are better off choosing a taxi service.

For reliable and safe service, make sure you book a cab with a private chauffeur at the airport or through your hotel.

How Many Days to Stay in Goa

If you stay close to Goa, then a 3 to 4-day relaxing vacation by the beach would be perfect for you. But if you are traveling from cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur, etc., then you would easily need 5-6 days to soak in the beauty of this state.

Honestly, Goa deserves a longer vacation as there are numerous places to explore here including churches, waterfalls, beaches, and forts. I would suggest a week to a 10-day long trip to Goa.

In the past couple of years, Goa has become a popular hub for digital nomads and slow traveling due to its good connectivity and fair network.

There are several beachside cafes and accommodations where the visitors stay to work and enjoy the beachside views. If you are looking for a work-from-home location in this pandemic, then Goa is a good choice to consider.

What to Do in Goa

Goa is beautiful with a lot of things for guests to do around here. So, whether you are a nature lover or a beach lover, you will easily find something to engage in.

Here are a few things that you could do on your Goa trip for enjoying a wholesome experience here.

Beach Hopping in Goa

Goa is known as the beach capital of India and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. A few of the beaches are either hidden behind a cliff or they are protecting a lagoon which makes them even more beautiful to explore. So, if you are in Goa, you have to do beach hopping.

A few beaches in Goa that you cannot miss out on are Vagator beach in North Goa, Miramar beach in Panjim, Palolem beach in South Goa, Colva beach in South Goa, and so on.

Explore Old Goa

Apart from the beaches, there are a lot of offbeat places to explore in Goa too including Old Goa. In Old Goa, you will find a lot of beautiful churches and heritage sites to check out.

One such place that you must visit is the Basilica of Bom Jesus and St. Cathderal, both of these are UNESCO Heritage sites and have beautiful architecture to admire.

Check out the Waterfalls

There are a lot of amazing waterfalls to check out in Goa, both big and small. So, make sure that you set aside time for those as well. If you don’t have the time, then just make sure that you at least cover the Dudhsagar waterfall for which you will need the help of a local.

There is a limited number of cars allowed near this waterfall so, make sure you start early in the day to visit this waterfall.

Experience Nightlife in Goa

Of course, when we are talking about Goa, we have to talk about its amazing nightlife. If you love parties and crowds, then you have a lot to cover in Goa. There are so many bars, clubs, night-long parties to attend here, and usually, you will find a lot of such events happening in Central Goa.

So, you can go and enjoy the casino experience at Deltin Royal or groove to the Bollywood music in Love Passion Karma in Nerul, there are very low chances of you running out of party places to explore around here.

Do Yoga in Goa

If you are looking for a relaxing trip to Goa, then you can even join a yoga retreat here for daily yoga sessions. These yoga sessions can be quite uplifting and will help you relax properly. Trust me, it is quite refreshing to start an active day on the beach with a yoga session.

Try Watersports

Apart from the above-mentioned activities, Goa is quite famous for water sports as well. From dolphin watching to scuba diving, you have a wide range of water activities to do around here. You can even join a scuba diving course in Goa and learn how to dive on the Grande Island nearby.

So, if you have always wanted to try water activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, banana boat ride, snorkeling, diving, etc., then Goa is a good place to try it out.

Festivals in Goa

There are several unique festivals in Goa that are either a remembrance of the 450 years of Portuguese rule or celebrate the rich heritage of the locals.

You can plan a trip to Goa during this time to enjoy the food, colorful costumes, and all the fun events that are carried out during such festivals.

Music Festival – There are many music festivals held in Goa throughout the year, out of which Sunburn and Supersonic Music Festival are the most popular ones to attend.

New Year’s Eve and Christmas – During Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the beaches and cafes in Goa are brimming with colors and music. This is a great way to celebrate the New Year or Christmas spirits of the year.

Narkasur – After Diwali, locals of Goa celebrate Narka Chaturdashi which is the manifestation of good triumphing over evil. In this festival, giant demon effigies dance through the streets of Goa before they are burned to show the triumph of good.

Viva Carnival – This is a Catholic festival that begins from Fat Saturday and lasts till Fat Tuesday. Similar to Mardi Gras or Rio Carnival, this festival includes a grand celebration involving parades, floats, masked dances, and more.

Goa’s Party Scene

A lot of visitors come to Goa expecting the famous trance parties but are disappointed when they have the mainstream clubs to entertain themselves.

For pure hippie vibes and to dance to techno music, you can find several clubs in Goa, especially Anjuna and Vagator.

But if you are looking for parties where thousands of people dance, then you would need to attend a music festival in Goa or plan a trip during Christmas or New Year’s Eve.

What and Where to Eat in Goa

Goa is famous for seafood so if you are a non-vegetarian, then you can try the seafood dishes over here. A popular Goan dish to try would be Vindaloo that tends to be spicy but ultimately delicious.

Apart from that, you also need to try the Fish Curry meal here that usually includes fried fish, dal, roti, and a few other local items. You can find this meal in most local dhabas and eating stalls for 80 – 100 INR and it is quite filling as well.

Another great dish to try in Goa is the famous Bun from Café Bhosle in Panjim. This is a small, fluffy, and sweet bun that is fried and is served with chickpeas. It tastes quite yummy and will cost you around 50 INR for a plate.

You will find a lot of cafés here as well that serve delicious baked goods. One of my favorites is Café Al Fresco in Goa that is a Portuguese house converted into an art gallery and a bakery.

Here, you get pizza, croissants, cheesecake, and other delicacies to enjoy with a calm and relaxing ambiance. There are several rooms here that have been turned into display rooms for different kinds of artifacts and creations. So, if you have some time at hand, do visit this place in Panjim.

Another place that I would highly recommend you to visit is the Joseph’s Bar in Panjim where you can get the local alcohol Feni and some local snacks such as well.

They have seafood snacks too which are delicious and the entire vibe of this bar is quite amazing. You can meet lots of locals around here and hang out with them for an amazing time.

There are several normal restaurants and dhabas in Goa where you can enjoy a meal for 100 – 300 INR per person.

If you don’t mind spending, then you will find loads of good and high-end restaurants along with fast-food chains here that serve good food and will cost you 300 – 500 INR for a decent meal.

Stick to small food shacks and do read the menu before you start ordering. Also, make sure that you do try the Fish Curry meal here for 100 – 150 INR. The meal is filling and is the best way to taste the Goan cuisine.

Souvenir Shopping

There are several iconic flea markets in Goa such as the Anjuna Flea Market, Arpora Saturday Night Bazaar, etc. where they sell interesting items to the tourists.

From anklets to beaded necklaces, you can get it all here for a reasonable price. But you need to be adept at bargaining.

Although most of the jewelry, clothes, and footwear that are sold here can be bought from Sarojini Market in Delhi, there are a few unique things to buy here.

You can get the famous local alcohol – Feni, a bottle of Kokum juice, Goan spices, special Cashews, Azulejos – hand-painted tiles of Goa, and local sweets such as Bebinca Cake as souvenirs from Goa.

Accommodation Options in Goa

Goa is not a tiny state and easily requires 7-10 days to properly explore the sights that it has to offer. This is why you must choose the right place to stay in Goa as it has a big impact on your experience here.

If you love to party and want to enjoy all the experiences and activities that Goa has to offer to the tourists, then choose accommodation in Baga or Calangute.

For those who love offbeat locations and a peaceful environment, places in extreme North and South Goa are good choices.

And if you wish to explore Old Goa and learn more about the history of this state, then Panjim would be the ideal place to stay in Goa.

ATMs in Goa

If you traveling to Goa on a shoestring budget, then you will need to carry cash to pay the local street vendors, bus conductors, etc. So, carry enough cash that you can pay the street vendors.

There are a few places that accept PayTM, Google Pay, etc. also these days but don’t be completely reliable on those platforms.

Since Goa is a popular tourist destination, there are a lot of ATMs scattered throughout this tiny state. However, during the long weekends, a lot of these ATMs tend to be empty and there are huge queues outside the ATMs to withdraw cash.

To avoid such a situation, make sure that you pay using your card wherever possible such as clubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, etc., and keep the cash for paying for the rentals, activities, and other things.

This way, you won’t end up without cash where you need it the most and won’t have to waste time on ATM queues during your Goa trip.

Network Availability in Goa

In terms of Network availability, most of the networks work in Goa. But Vodafone, Jio, and Airtel networks work the best in Goa.

However, this network can be patchy at many locations as well so, you might not have any Internet or Calling signal on your mobile phone for a while.

Most of the hotels and cafes offer decent Wi-Fi to get your work done even if you cannot stream Netflix with it.

Safety in Goa

Goa is a relatively safe state to visit in India but there are a few things to keep in mind when you are traveling here.

Swimming in Goa

Firstly, be careful when you are swimming in Goa. A lot of beaches have vicious sea currents that can easily drown tourists. Generally, this happens because the tourist is drunk or high.

So, stick to beaches that have lifeguards or are safe to swim. Avoid swimming during the monsoon season as it can be extremely dangerous.

Women Safety

One bad thing about Goa is that eve-teasing and catcalling are quite common here. But that’s not even the worst part.

There have been complaints from women that their obscene photos are clicked without their permission or men try to begin a conversation with them when they are not interested.

This is why it is advised for solo female travelers or female friends to avoid going to remote places alone or accepting food/drinks from strangers in Goa.

Sunstroke and Mosquito Bites

Apart from that, you are likely to suffer from sunstroke or suffer from mosquito bites when you are traveling in Goa.

Make sure you carry a hat and good sunscreen with high SPF value to keep your skin protected.

For protection against the mosquitoes, use a mosquito repellent cream or spray and try to keep a covering with you to cover your exposed skin during the evening to stay safe from mosquito bites.

Clothing in Goa

Of course, when you are planning a trip to Goa, you might wonder what you should wear here. Thankfully, Goa is a little relaxed in terms of clothing and one can easily wear dresses, skirts, shorts, etc. here.

One of the best things about Goa is that you can wear almost anything when you are traveling here. Bikinis and swimsuits are common on the beaches and you can wear them freely on Colva, Vagator, Arambol, Palolem, etc. beaches.

Furthermore, if your hotel or resort is located on a beach, then you can relax and enjoy yourself in a bikini as the beach area is usually kept private for the guests to enjoy.

The only place where it is not normal to wear a bikini or swimsuit is in restaurants or the streets of Goa, so dress a little carefully over there. You can wear dresses, skirts, etc. while exploring around Goa with no worries.

Apart from that, there are many churches and traditional places in Goa where you would need to cover your knees and shoulders to enter.

If you are traveling in a bus, then do carry a stole or scarf to avoid standing out and getting ogled at. A stole will not only protect you from unwarranted stares but will also keep you safe from the bright sun and keep your body cool in the humid climate.

Budget for Goa

One of the best things about Goa is that it can easily be traveled on a shoestring budget. But if you are in a mood to splurge, then it can easily turn into a luxurious trip as well.

On my 4 trips to Goa now, I have been able to manage my month-long trips in 15,000 – 20,000 INR inclusive of my travel from Delhi to Goa, stay, food, activities, and transportation in Goa.

Generally, a 5-day trip to Goa can cost you around 4,000 – 6,000 INR if you are on a budget trip. This cost can increase if you choose luxury resorts and dine and party at the best places in Goa.

Goa has become too crowded after it has evolved as a tourist destination but there are still a lot of unexplored places around here.

Most people stay in North Goa for party scenes but if you want to experience Goa in the Goan style, then explore Old Goa and South Goa. It is quite peaceful around there and you have a lot of lagoons and hiking trails to explore in South Goa too.

Honestly, Goa is one of those places that have something for all kinds of travelers. So, whether you are looking for a fun place to party or a quiet beach to reflect on your life, Goa has it all.

I hope this Goa travel guide helps you plan your trip to Goa too so that you can have your once-in-a-lifetime trip here.

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Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us. We provide Watersports & Adventure trips. Convenient & affordable to your advantage.

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us.

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Culturally Immersive & Responsible Travel

Dos and Don’ts of Your First Trip to Goa: 20+ Practical Tips!

About this blog : In this article, I will list down 50 essential travel tips when you are visiting Goa. I assume this is your first time in the state and you have already decided on either north or south Goa.

For the lesser mortals who seldom gets a chance to visit Goa, here is a complete list of dos and don’ts of visiting the sunshine state! This could have been a definitive guide to visiting Goa after you have read my other travel related blogs to Goa! You may spend 7 days in Goa exploring the north or the south beaches, or pick just one of the sides of Goa either the north or the south . You may choose to see the best beaches of Goa over a span of 4 days or just spend 3 relaxing days by the beaches of North Goa . The basic rules of traveling in Goa mostly remains unchanged! Please do not miss this guide on exploring the offbeat destinations in Goa for the first time visitors!

Living a dream life by the beach in Goa, soaked in the rhythm of a comfortable slow life has become a reality in the prolonged lockdown era. I know people who let go their urban life and related vanity, pack their stuff in a hatchback and leave for the Goa life. In a bid to reset life during the great Pause, more often than not they have found an unexplored idyllic life. Al Beit it is laid back, slow, agrees with the order of Goan lifestyle, the quintessential susegad and lets you experience the beauty in small things. Being in Goa may remind you of the joys of yesteryears, of living in a small town, and taking a day as it unfolds.

Where you stay in Goa makes or breaks it!

Be it the north of Goa or the South, where you choose to stay in Goa can be a total gamechanger. The more touristy parts of North Goa have been spoilt beyond repairing. If you have to stay in North, please choose a homestay near Sangolda or sleepy villages at the hinterlands of Baga or Calangute. Please refrain from visiting these beaches. The night life might be nice but the beaches are in ramshackle state. I have been there after the lockdown was over and I am not exaggerating at all. If you have to choose north, drift towards Ashwem or Morjim. Even Dona Paula is not a bad idea either.

In South, Beyond the Cola beach, and in the deep south of Goa, say Patnem or Palolem, you may still find the last bit of beautiful wilderness of rocky beaches hidden behind the coves of coconut trees swaying in mellow sea-breeze. However south of Goa remains far off from the airport or main railway station. reaching these parts remains a pain in the wrong place.

Either choose a homestay or a beach hut or a responsible luxury stay that has its own access to waterbody. I would soon publish a list of the best hotels or bnbs to choose in Goa!

So far, I have loved the following stays in Goa.

• An Airbnb at Candolim which sadly does not operate any longer.
• Casa Cubo by the beach near baga run by an old lady whose children live abroad.
• Le Meridien, Calangute
• Yab Yum resort, Ashwem in North Goa (However, i am not sure if it is still operational)
• Mercure Devaaya Resort at Dhivar Island for a holistic living experience. It is a luxury stay of international standard.

What to wear in Goa

Unlike what people think, Goa is not all about wearing a swim suit in the comfort of no prying eye are stalking me anymore. At least not the beaches of Baga and Candolim. You can easily wear western wears. For bikini shoots, choose a rather less crowded beach, preferably a private beach right in front of a beach hut. This way, even if you get unwanted attention, you will have people of the beach huts backing you up!

I have worn a saree in Goa. I have also worn a bikini in Goa. I did not shy away from experimenting with boho mix and match looks with ethnic clothes contrasting with a taste of west. A broad belt on a white dress, a flowing skirt in indigo hue, large tan bags to compliment the tan on my brown skin. Goa lets my skin breath under ample sunshine.

Please do not go topless in Goa. It is imperative to say despite all the cool European vibe and visible Portuguese influence, Goa remains a lot like mainland India and cultural nuances remain strong. Nude beach or too much of skin show not only attracts unwanted attention but also brings legal notice in Indian context. Do Not go topless in Goa. There are no nude and topless beaches in Goa either. No point of searching for these on the world wide web.

Please do not wear a heel in the beach. The sand only tolerates chappals on feet.

Best time to visit Goa

The sunshine state looks and feels her best during the sunshine days! Visit goa in Summer months or the dry winter mons. Starting from November to April is a great time to visit Goa. After that the rains starts. Monsoon in Goa retreats by August end and you can start planning a Goa trip again.

In monsoon, Goa coast experiences heavy pouring including a few occurrences of cyclones. I spent a night at a beach hut during Cyclone Kyarr in Goa and I would never that again in my life for the exchange of an entire world. It felt the sea roaring to gulp down my small villa. Please beware during the rains, many beaches remain off limit for the tourists too. However, moon is particularly stunning in Goa if you are keen on experiencing the hinterlands and the western Ghats as well as the beautiful waterfalls. Chasing waterfall and bathing in them is a thing in Goa during the monsoon months.

Another tip I can give you from years of experiencing Goa travels is please refrain from visiting Goa during the long weekends. The crowd is horrid, particularly around the Baga area. They litter the beach, pushes price to a sky high and smear the Goa vibe with noise pollution. If you cant manage vacation on other times, drift towards the deep south or instead choose Gokarna or Udupi.

Water sports in Goa

Goa is famous for various types of water sports. I loved parasailing in Goa. There is Sinquerim beach right behind the fort Agonda where locals conduct a number of water sports. Please ensure you are comfortable with the instructor and the price charged is legit. Illegal operators now roam free and that can even put your life to unnecessary risk!

The True Offbeat beaches in Goa

The further you drift away from Baga or Calangute, the closer you would come to untamed beautiful nature and pristine beaches of Goa. You mat frown at the idea of spending time at a beach sans a shack or minimum tourist infrastructure but once you discover one such cove, you would not want to pull away from that place. I say this from my own experience. peace and calm prevails in such beaches. Try Ashwem or Cola or Patnem beach and you may come back to thank me later. Just avoid monsoon since many beaches remain off limit due to massive undercurrent of the sea.

Sailing in Goa

Sail through the mangroves of Mandovi river on a round cane boat in the style of Goa locals. Sailing in Goa does not necessarily have to be that of luxury yachts, although those options are available aplenty! A few houseboats also float on the backwaters of Goa reminding you of Kerala.

usually, you can not sleep on the Goa beaches. But there are certain shacks which allows a makeshift arrangement for over enthusiast travelers to sleep off the night at the back. Make sure you speak to them beforehand and be clear of what you expect!

Massage on Goa beaches takes you closer to heaven

Local women clad in traditional Kunbi printed saree, a few silver toenails and flower beads on head often ask the loungers if they want a relaxing massage. dare you say no to them! They expert fingers play through your supple skin to relax the tensed muscles. The afternoons under the sun shed becomes surprisingly stress-free as you

Don’t do Weed in Goa but indulge in Fenny

Like everywhere else in India, weed or any type of drug is illegal and can bring the wrath of IPC. Please do not indulge in such activities, not just in Goa but everywhere else!

When in Goa, you have to indulge in Fenny. That is local moonshine made of fermented cashew or palm, GI tagged and a matter of pride for the locals. Fenny packed in various shapes and sizes can be bought and gifted as souvenir from Goa too!

Being a Stag in Goa

I have traveled Goa only as a solo woman and I loved it. despite a few drunkards abruptly disturbing my peaceful slumber at Baga beach, it was overall a safe experience to explore Goa. However for stag travelers, the experience could be a bit different. You may not be allowed entry to a number of pubs and bars. Family friendly hotels may ask a few extra questions. However, things have changed a bit after the lockdown and rules are relaxed so are the motivation for stag travelers, I feel!

Cliffs are dangerous

There are plenty of cliffs in goa, especially the ones where old Portuguese forts are situated. if you happen to climb one for better view of sunset, ensure you climb down with a torch before it is pitch black. Not just strays but snakes also may send a shiver down the spine for the bravest of explorers!

Surfing in Goa

The beaches in north, especially Ashwem and Morjim has surfing school and instructors for the surfing enthusiats in Goa. The waves roll in, has a perfect warm temperature and is favored a lot by those who favor water sports!

Trust the Local Boats

Speak to the local fisher men and convince them to take you along for a fishing adventure on their tiny sail boats. Among the things they fish, often a few sea-snake may sneak in. I am telling this to prepare you from before hand. However, if you can make a space in these fishing boats, you are in for an amusing trip! Usually, this happens in the beaches of South Goa. many villages are mushroomed the coastal region of South Goa. Wait for the fishermen who venture into the sea at the crack of the dawn and join them for this adventure of a lifetime!

Nightlife in Goa

From cruise ships to LPK and shacks where artists perform live music, Goa has a number of options to experience night life! Indulge in shopping for thrift items or souvenirs from the local markets in Goa.

The Issue with plastic and recycle

Refrain from littering the roads of goa from plastic and other junks.

Renting a bike/vehicle in Goa

Please note, drink and drive is a serious offence according to IPC and can lead to being convicted by the court. Refrain from doing so for your own safety and safety f the fellow citizens.

That Mythical Goa Vibe is a Truth

Goa is truly the land of free. As you glide through the beautiful coconut groves and explore the emerald green lagoons of the hinterlands of Goa, an idea slowly settles in that this place is different. This is a dreamy land far away from the bustle of an urban life. To truly experience Goa, you need to leave behind the cape of vanity, as well as the last bout of pride. You need to feel how small and obscure you really are in front of the magnitude of the vast nature. Arabian Sea at one end and the craggy Western Ghats on the other, Goa is pulsating with the heart of an artist, creating breathtaking visuals and stirring up the pot with a new day unfolding!

Think Twice before accepting that free drink

Please do not accept free drinks served at the beach bars or shacks or anywhere really if you are traveling as a solo woman. Not just molestation, this can lead to kidnapping and further complications as well.

PDA on Goa beaches are hardly acceptable

Although a much sought after destination among the honeymooners, Goa beaches are no place to do PDA. Too many prying eyes will make you uncomfortable beyond words. Add to that moral policing. PDA in Goa away from beaches will bring you to a walk of shame which looks fine only on the screen of GOT. IYKYK!

Rave/ Trance Parties are Elusive in Goa

Once famous for the hippie crowd who made a pit stop in Goa and spend nights celebrating life as if there is no tomorrow, Goa was a stronghold of the mythical trance parties. The idea was to enter an elevated sense of spiritual sensitivity and experience the other world through bloomed consciousness. i write this as I have heard this but these things do not happen anymore, as the local guides suggested. there is a considerable hush hush around around the trance parties which eventually ends up disappointing you because all you get to see is drunk punks gurgling trash.

Well, that is anything but trance for me!

However, being the hub of contemporary artists (who also contribute to a number of new age art museums in Goa), do not miss out on the cozy arty parties in Goa. the only way you may get access to one is if you choose to stay with an experimental hostel.

These are some of my curated travel tips for Goa. Things have taken a drastic turn after lockdown. Many homestays are shut now. The Russian charter planes are nowhere to be scene. Many tourist attractions are off limit for tourists. Colorful festivals celebrating mirth and joy are now restricted to a meagre number of joiners. Things have changed in the travel sphere too. those who travel seek to find comfort in the known thrills of Goa. That is fine as long as that keeps people safe and sound! This is the age of restrained and responsible travel experiences and nothing could have been more beautiful than that!

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I did spend a good week in Goa. But I think a week is still not enough for me to deep dive into the vibrant culture of this place.

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• Oct 22, 2023

10 Best Things to Do in Goa | India

Goa, Known as the quintessential beach destination in India, Goa is so much more than just its famous coastline. From pristine beaches with swaying palms to historic churches and Hindu temples, mouthwatering cuisine to high-energy nightlife, Goa packs in a range of experiences. No wonder it remains a top vacation spot for both domestic and international travelers.

If you’re planning a trip to Goa, here are the 10 best things to do for an unforgettable holiday in this beachy paradise.

Explore Picturesque Beaches

With over 100 kilometers of stunning coastline, Goa is synonymous with its beautiful beaches. Depending on what you’re looking for, you can take your pick from lively beaches packed with shacks and water sports to more secluded stretches of sparkling sand.

Some of the best beaches in Goa include:

Anjuna Beach – Famous for its weekly flea market and neon-painted beach shacks, Anjuna comes alive with parties and music. The rocky headlands add to the dramatic scenery.

Calangute and Baga Beach – These popular interconnected beaches offer everything from banana boat rides to jet skiing. Plenty of dining and nightlife options too.

Vagator Beach – Lined by steep red cliffs, Vagator has a more laidback vibe. The Chapora Fort nearby is great for unforgettable sunset views.

Palolem Beach – With calmer waters and a crescent shape, Palolem is Goa’s idyllic tropical beach. Lit up by lanterns at night, it’s perfect for swimming, relaxing, and trying out kayaking.

With so many amazing beaches , you’ll be spoiled for choice in Goa! Some of the best things to do include sunbathing, indulging in water sports like parasailing and jet skiing, enjoying beach shack dining, and watching magical sunsets.

Check Out Historic Churches and Temples

Beyond the beaches, Goa is rich in Portuguese heritage and history. One of the best ways to experience this is by visiting its historic churches and Hindu temples.

Some top religious sites in Goa include:

Basilica of Bom Jesus – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. An imposing example of Baroque architecture.

Church of St. Francis of Assisi – Beautifully adorned with wall paintings, this church is famed for its exquisite interior. The marble tomb of St. Francis Xavier is also kept here occasionally.

Mangueshi Temple – Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this is one of the most prominent Hindu temples in Goa with a 400-year old history. The pristine white temple has a seven-storey deepstambha (lamp tower).

Marcedez Palace – Once the residence of the Archbishop, this 130-year-old heritage mansion has regal Indo-Portuguese architecture.

By spending time at these historic religious attractions, you can not only admire the architecture but also get a glimpse into Goa’s multicultural history under Portuguese rule.

Shop Local Markets for Souvenirs

No trip to Goa is complete without shopping for souvenirs or local delicacies to take home. Goa has bustling markets that offer everything from clothes and accessories to spices and handicrafts.

Some popular markets in Goa are:

Anjuna Flea Market – Held near Anjuna beach on Wednesdays, it’s a paradise for shoppers with stalls selling jewelry, hammocks, spices, artsy decor items and more. Haggling is a must!

Saturday Night Market – As the name suggests, it’s open on Saturdays from late afternoon till late night. Shop for cotton tops, beach dresses, shell necklaces, colorful candles and lamps.

Mackie’s Night Bazaar – Open from dusk till dawn, this vibrant night market has over 100 stalls selling Kashmiri carpets, pottery, apparel and handicrafts. There’s also excellent street food.

Mapusa Market – A traditional go-to marketplace for locals and tourists alike. Pick up everything from fresh produce to antiques and haggling is the norm.

Trying your hand at haggling and buying unique souvenirs is one of the best things to do in Goa’s markets. The shopping is a thrill!

Party the Night Away

Known for its electric party scenes, Goa comes alive after sunset. From flashy nightclubs to beachfront shacks, you can dance the night away and meet fellow party-goers from around the world.

Some of Goa’s best nightlife hotspots are:

Club Cubana – Located atop a hill in Arpora, this massive club with a poolside bar offers unparalleled views. Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping party vibe.

Tito's White House – A vibrant place to enjoy live music, delicious drinks and meet interesting people from various countries. It’s one of the first clubs put Goa on the party map.

Cape Town Café – The interiors have a Cape Town theme featuring graffiti art. Known for great food, music and cocktails. They often host events like karaoke nights.

Cohiba - On the Waterem Road in Sinquerim, it’s been rated as one of Goa’s best nightclubs. Frequent EDM festivals and ladies' nights.

Chronicle - Nestled on the Small Vagator hill, it hosts electronic dance music nights with renowned international DJs.

Goa’s carefree, festive nightlife is not to be missed. For the ultimate party holiday, head to the happening clubs and bars to dance the hours away!

Indulge in Goan Cuisine

While in Goa, indulge in delicious local cuisine infused with a Portuguese touch. Goan food is considered among India’s best regional cuisines, with an emphasis on seafood, coconut-based curries, and local ingredients.

Some must-try Goan delicacies include:

Fish Curry Rice – Goa’s signature dish made from fried kingfish simmered in a coconut-based gravy. Usually served with rice or fresh poi bread.

Vindaloo – A spicy curry with variations using pork, chicken or beef. The fiery red curry gets its bite from chili, black pepper, and vinegar.

Bebinca – A rich, layered dessert made from coconut milk and egg yolk. It’s a Portuguese-influenced specialty item not to be missed.

Sorpotel – A tasty meat dish that makes use of underused cuts like liver, heart and kidneys. Typically spicy and eaten with rice, bread or sannas.

Feni – Made from fermented cashews or coconut palm sap, feni is a popular local alcoholic drink. It’s best sampled from beach shacks.

There are also excellent restaurants and beach shacks serving authentic Goan fare and fresh seafood. Some recommended options are Mum's Kitchen, Eddie's Shack, Fish Ka, and Miguel's. The delicious Goan food alone makes the trip to Goa worthwhile!

Try Out Adventure Sports

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Goa offers a plethora of adventure sports from paragliding to jet skiing. Many of the most popular activities take place around the beaches, though there are inland options too.

Some thrilling adventure sport options in Goa are:

Parasailing – Get strapped to a parachute and experience an aerial view of the pristine beaches as you parasail above the sea. Operates at Calangute, Baga and other beaches.

Hot Air Balloon Rides – For stunning 360 degree views of Goa's landscapes, take a scenic hot air balloon ride, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Scuba Diving – Explore the marine world by scuba diving in the Arabian Sea. Malvan and Grande Island are top spots with rich marine life.

White River Rafting – Ride the rapids at the bases of the Western Ghats on swift moving rivers like Mhadei river. Organizers offer guided tours.

Jet Skiing – Zoom across the waters of beaches like Calangute on an adrenaline-pumping jet ski ride. Trained instructors provide guidance.

Cruise to Grand Island – Take a ferry cruise from Panjim jetty to Grand Island for water sports like bumper rides, snorkeling, parasailing, and diving.

With so many adventure activities, your Goa trip is guaranteed to get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping!

Unwind at Spas and Ayurvedic Centres

After so much activity, your mind and body need some pampering. Goa has fabulous wellness retreats and Ayurvedic centers that allow you to relax and rejuvenate completely.

Some recommended picks:

Purple Valley Yoga Retreat – Rustic bungalows in a jungle setting with daily yoga, massage therapies and vegetarian food.

Bamboo Yoga Retreat – Right on Patnem Beach, it offers yoga classes, Ayurveda treatments, meditation, and tropical living.

Cliff Ayurveda – Luxury cottages and suites combined with ancient Ayurvedic and naturopathic treatments. Overlooking the Mandovi river.

The Beach House – Renowned wellness resort with Ayurvedic packages, spa therapies, yoga classes and a vegetarian-vegan restaurant.

Braganza House – Set in a 17th-century house, they offer therapeutic massages and Ayurvedic treatments based on ancient medicinal techniques.

Spending a few days focused on healing therapies can make you feel refreshed in mind and body, ready to enjoy Goa further. The wellness culture here is worth experiencing.

Explore Wildlife at Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary southeast of Goa. Spanning over 85 square kilometers with dense forests and grasslands, it’s home to diverse flora and fauna.

Some star wildlife attractions are:

Leopards – Cotigao is one of the few places with an indigenous population of leopards. Spot them during early morning safari tours.

Deer and Antelopes – Keep an eye out for barking deer, sambar deer, blackbuck antelope among other species.

Monkeys – The sanctuary has common langurs, bonnet macaques and other monkey species.

Reptiles – Look for pythons, cobras, monitor lizards and Goa’s vibrantly colored King Cobra.

Birds – Over 200 bird species from hornbills to paradise flycatchers can be spotted here.

Cotigao is an easy day trip from Palolem or Canacona, but also has cottages for overnight stays. With prior permission, you can hike or go birdwatching within the core areas.

Check out Dudhsagar Waterfalls

No trip to Goa is complete without visiting Dudhsagar, meaning 'Sea of Milk' in Hindi. These majestic tiered waterfalls plummet 310 meters down a rocky cliff into the Mandovi River.

To reach here, take a scenic train ride on the Vasco route till Castle Rock station, then trek for about 1.5 km. Since the falls are inside Bhagwan Mahavir National Park, a Forest Department pass is required.

The best time to visit Dudhsagar is during the monsoon when the water is voluminous. The misty spray and thunderous roar of the falls is an unforgettable experience. Carry your camera as there are awesome photo ops.

Picnics are popular here so you can bring a packed lunch. And make sure you don’t miss the enthralling train ride itself winding past lush forests, tunnels and valleys.

Take a Cruise on the Mandovi River

No trip to Goa is complete without a relaxing Mandovi river cruise. This mighty river flows through the heart of Goa into the Arabian Sea.

The most popular option is a sunset dinner cruise where you glide along the Mandovi sipping on drinks and enjoying a live music show. Many cruises also offer dance performances showcasing Goa’s vibrant culture.

Some also offer dolphin sighting cruises allowing you to spot Indo-Pacific Humpback dolphins and Finless porpoise from the boat deck.

Popular cruise operators are Santa Monica Jetty, Grandeur Cruise, and Paradise Cruise among others. Cruise duration ranges from 1-2 hours with pick-up/drop-off from Panjim city.

A laid-back river cruise is the perfect way to soak in Goa's natural scenic beauty.

From spectacular beaches and historic attractions to mouthwatering cuisine and high-octane adventures, Goa truly offers an unforgettable tropical vacation. By including the best experiences this beach destination has to offer, you’re guaranteed a trip filled with great memories.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or non-stop entertainment, Goa has something for every kind of traveler. So get ready to have the time of your life on your next visit to this beachy paradise!

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• 25 Places to Visit in Goa for a 2 Days

2 Days Trip to Goa

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Places to visit in Goa on Day 1

Calangute beach.

Deserving every reason to be called the ‘Queen of Beaches’ in Goa, Calangute Beach is a paradise for nature lovers holding the spectacular beauty and charm. The beach reflects the unique Goan culture with a glorious view of the landscape serving as a perfect retreat for visitors. Here you can find the effervescent markets selling everything from beer, trinkets to pawns.

Top Experiences To Do in Calangute Beach

Baga Beach in Goa looks as though it has come straight out of a work of art. Lofty white waves hurrying to wipe out the prints of feet left by you on the white sand while the breeze keeps on playing with the palm trees is a sight to behold at this majestic beach in Goa. It is a decent place to appreciate some moments and abide in a serene consideration with oneself. It is counted as one of the best beaches in Goa where you can see wonderful.

Fort Aguada

Anjuna Beach

Situated on the west coast of Goa by the Arabian Sea, Anjuna Beach is one of the best beaches in Goa. The hippies were the first people to come here in the 1950s and since then Anjuna Beach is a hotspot in Goa for local and international tourists. Anjuna Beach grows on you as you take a stroll along the glowing white sands and enjoy the sight of gently swaying palms in front of you.

Top Experiences To Do in Anjuna Beach

Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach is one of the best beaches in Goa which provide a wholesome escapade offering everything like sightseeing, water sports, shopping and tranquility. The beach is mostly famous among Westerners and a permanent residence for many of them and it is the best places to visit in north goa in 1 day. Vagator Beach is the place that enchants people of all ages.

Top Experiences To Do in Vagator Beach

Grand Island Goa Tour With Scuba Diving

Activity Location:  Grand Island, Goa, India

Activity Duration:  6-8 Hours (approx.)

Starting Point:  Sinquerim Boat Jetty

Pick-up/ Drop locations:  You will be picked up from the following area's Hotel Locations;

• Arpora: 07:00 AM to 07:30 AM
• Baga: 07:30 AM to 08:00 AM
• Calangute: 07:30 AM to 08:00 AM
• Candolim: 08:00 AM to 08:30 AM

Activity Timings: 07:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Age Limit:  Above 12 Years

Hot Air Baloon Safari at Chandor, South Goa

Activity Location: Assolda Football Ground, Chandor, South Goa, Goa

Activity Timings: Between 06:30 AM to 08:30 AM

Activity Duration: 45 Minutes to 1 hour (Depending upon the wind pressure)

Note: The landing area is 7-8 km far from the take-off point towards the direction of the wind.

About the Hot Air Baloon Safari at Chandor, South Goa :

Get ready for an amazing time in a hot air balloon and take in the views of the city from above. Fly at 2000 feet to get a panoramic view of Goa's beautiful beaches and hills. There are 10 seats available in each hot air balloon, making it ideal for groups of friends and family. So, grab the Hot Air Balloon Safari in Goa and have a truly unforgettable experience guided by an expert pilot .

Seated in the proximity of Panjim that is just 2 km away this alluring beach is home for various adventure activities. The beach is beautifully laced by the palm trees and here, one can enjoy the beautiful scenes nature has to offer, making it one of the most visited tourist places in Panjim. Boating is another activity which can be done at this beach other than the thrilling aqua sports. One can also, delve in scuba diving and explore the world beneath the land or can savor the thrill in water skiing and gliding. Apart from these, there will also be instances when you can witness dolphin sighting which will leave you in awe with the place. It is undoubtedly a picture-perfect beach offering a plethora of paradisiac views. Location: To Coco Beach Nerul, Goa 403114 Timings: All through the day Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: Approximately 9.7 km

Mandovi Lounge Boat Ride in North Goa

Activity Location: Fun Cruises Goa, Near, Holy Cross-Virlosa, Britona, Alto Porvorim, Penha de França, Goa

Operational Hours:

• Peak Hours - 4 PM to 8 PM
• Off-Peak Hours - 7 AM to 11 AM & 8:30 PM to 12 AM
• Discounted Hours - 11 AM to 4 PM

Activity Duration:

• Mandovi Lounge Boat: 2 hours (1 Hour Sailing + 1 Hour Anchorage)

Note:  For more Yacht Experiences in Goa, you can visit  Private Yacht Charter Experiences in Goa.

About Mandovi River Boat Ride in Goa:

Explore Goa's beauty from a new perspective with the Mandovi River Boat Ride. Glide along tranquil waters, surrounded by lush green banks and diverse wildlife. Engage in a variety of activities like fishing and crocodile watching. Take in the stunning scenery and immerse yourself in the city's serenity. Book your Mandovi river boat ride in Goa for an unforgettable perspective of the region's natural wonders.

Dona Paula Beach

A lover’s paradise, the name of the location got its designation after a tragic love story, making the place more interesting and catchy. This former village is a heaven on earth that provides picturesque spots and huge space for sunbathing while relaxing in the calm beaches adjacent to clean blue waters. Travellers love to be here to indulge in water sports like parasailing, kayaking etc. and gets the adrenaline rush at beaches like Dias beach and Dona Paula beach. Moreover, the markets for shopping are also vibrant and gets shiny names of food and drinking spots to attract visitors. For a perfect stay, one can also book their own resort or hotels here which are also loaded with amenities and good services. Location : 6 km from Panaji city.

Casino Pride (Majestic Pride)

Another amazing casino life could be experienced at Casino Pride (Majestic Pride) which has its anchor tied down in Mandovi river. The casino boat has the best of the facilities and services having well-trained staff, delicious meals and a good range of drinks making it one of the best places to visit in North Goa in 1 day.

The Church Of Mae De Deus

This bright white building and Neo-Gothic architecture are so impulsive that just mesmerizes its beholders. One will surely get awestruck with the impact of peaceful beauty, settlement within the greenery and the aura it presents right from the first look to the same. Right from the exteriors to interiors, the church is certainly one of the best places to visit in North Goa. Interestingly, it houses the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus which brought the church back to life post its ruin state. With imposing interiors and carved ornamentation on ceiling and walls, the church magnetizes not just the religion followers but also those who love to praise the reality on the ground. Location: Chogm Rd, Saligao Timings: Gate to God’s own home opens up every day from 9.00 AM to 12.30 PM and from 3.00 PM to 5.00 PM. Entry Fees: Absolutely none!

If you are in Goa and are looking for a party place bursting with nicer crowds and groovy music then Tito’s is the place for you. Famed for throwing the best theme parties in Goa, Tito’s has been gracefully leveling up the party scenes on Baga Beach. From drinks to snacks and from dance to music, this place has everything you need for a fun vacation in Goa.

Best of Alibag

Arvalem Waterfalls

A soothing and peaceful spot in Goa brings one near to Arvalem waterfalls which is excellent for picnics and outings. Cascading from the height of 50 m (24 ft), Arvalem is one of the top places to visit in North Goa. These falls make a plunge pool at the bottom where one can swim in and relax with cold waters. A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is also settled in the vicinity along with a well-maintained park where one can just sit and observe the deep beauty it possesses.

Se Cathedral

What to say about Curlies shack that proudly gains tourists like anything at its service on Anjuna beach. Known for not only its glowing ambience but also the huge space it offers in form of a lounge, garden restaurant, bar, club zone, and open sea view platform. Travellers love to visit here for the heart throbbing parties and delicacies they serve with yummy cocktails. Curlies also provide stay options to its guests and water sports activities so you may call it all in one and one for all. Location: Very close to Anjuna flea market, you can find Curlies! Timings: Everyday 8.30 AM to 2.30 AM, all ready for your breakfast to party time Entry Fees: It only wants you to pay for the food and drinks you consume here! No entry fees required.

Best of Andaman and Nicobar

Cabo De Rama Fort

This decrypted structure with towers and rustic cannons was claimed by the Portuguese monarchs. It was a well-equipped fort with 21 guns and several military barracks and a chapel but, when the Portuguese left India, the place was abandoned and, later used as the government prison. Now, the fort is housed only by the ruins but is a popular tourist place in South Goa.

Johnny Cool

This place gives a new dimension to the dining style, which is a combination of beach, exotic cuisine, and serene aura. This deadly combination can be experienced at the Johnny Cool Beach Bar which lies on the Dover Beach, famed as one of the most alluring beaches of Goa. Here, one can savor mind-blowing Caribbean delicacies with excellent ambiance accompanied by soft jazz music to make every part of your body move on the soothing beats. It is one of the most visited tourist places in South Goa with an unbelievable quality of service. Apart from these, one can even enjoy varieties of cocktails, beer and other liquors along the beachside bar. It is undoubtedly the best place to explore in southern Goa and enjoy meals in the relaxing environment coupled with striking sandy beaches. Location:  Dover Beach, Below Dover Playing Field, Dover, Barbados.

Places to visit in Goa on Day 2

Basilica of bom jesus.

The oldest withstanding Church of Goa, beautifully built under the influence of Portuguese architectural style, is one of the best places to visit in Panjim. The lovely marble floor embellished with valuable stones adds up to the charm of the magnificent church. The cathedral of the Church holds the remains of St. Xavier's in a silver casket which is elegantly decorated and, worshiped by his devotees.

Best of Pondicherry

Dudhsagar Falls and Spice Plantation Tour | Book @ 17% off

Activity Duration: 11 hours (6:00 AM to 5:00 PM)

Pick Up/Drop Off Points: Baga, Calangute, Candolim, and Panjim Bus Stand

Dudhsagar Falls (literally Sea of Milk) is a four-tiered waterfall located on the Mandovi River in the Indian state of Goa. Dudhsagar Falls is amongst India's tallest waterfalls with a height of 310 m (1017 feet) and an average width of 30 meters (100 feet). And then learn about the cultivation of herbs, tropical fruits, and spices at a local plantation.

Begin your day trip by getting picked up from the nearest landmark from Candolim, Baga, Calangute and Panjim bus stand at around 6:00 AM in a shared/ Private(min.4 pax required) transfer. Enjoy your jeep safari to Dudhsagar waterfalls and continue your experiential day with a guided spice plantation tour accompanied by Goan lunch. End your memorable day with the Old Goa Tour while returning from the Dudhsagar waterfall.

The Dudhsagar Falls jeep safari package can be made even more exciting by including the visit to the evergreen and refreshing spice farm along with its delicious and authentic Goan meal and the historical Old-Goa churches.

How to reach: Getaway on this day trip after getting picked up from the nearest landmark (within a radius of 1-1.5 KM) from Candolim, Baga, Calangute, Panjim bus stand and Mapusa at around 6:00 AM in a shared vehicle. These pickup points are easily accessible through Public & Private Transport.

South Goa Sightseeing Package | Book & Save 22%

Activity Timings: 10 Hours (Open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM)

Pick up points : Candolim, Calangute, Baga, Arpora, Sinquerim and Nerul.

South Goa tour is a highly recommended tour for privileged tourists coming on a short trip to Goa because this tour covers most of the important places in South Goa. If you want a break from overpacked beaches then this part of Goa is for you.

Explore South Goa with a lot of attractions on this group tour in an AC bus or a private car. South Goa Sightseeing Package will take you across places like Miramar Beach, Dona Paula, Old Goa Churches, Basilica Bom, Se Cathedral, St. Augustine Tower, Mangeshi Temple, Balaji Temple. Places to Visit: Miramar Beach, Dona pola beach, Mangeshi temple, Balaji temple, Wax museum, Old goa church, Boat cruise point (ticket not included).

Packages offered: There are three variants in this tour as following which you can select at the booking stage: Private Tour  -Car: For 4 people -SUV: For 5-7 people -Van: Upto 20 people

How to reach:   Getaway on this day trip after getting picked up from the nearest landmark (within a radius of 1-1.5 KM)  from Candolim, Baga, Calangute, Arpora, Nerul area, Sinquerim, at around 8:30 AM in a shared vehicle. These pickup points are easily accessible through Public & Private Transport.

Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary

This wildlife century came into existence in the year 1999 under the Wildlife Act. The Sanctuary lies on the Western Ghats in the northern part of the Panjim city. Sprawling over an area of 240 sq km, it has rich flora and fauna which attracts the tourists. One can witness bewitching scenic views at this splendid Sanctuary which is the largest protected wildlife.  Here at this sanctuary, you can come across numerous variant of animals like Pythons, Cobras, Slender Toris, Jungle Cats, Elephants, avian Birds, and many more rare species. One can even hire a jeep to explore every nook and corner of the diverse sanctuary. Location:  NH 4A, Caranzol, Goa, 403410, India Timings:  8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Entry Fee:  Rs. 20 per person for Adults                   Rs. 10 per person for Children                   Rs 30 per Still Camera                   Rs 150 per Camcorder

Top Experiences To Do in Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary

Best of Gokarna

Shantadurga

Club Cubana

Cafe Mambos

This nightclub can turn your mood joyous and dancy with its live performances, international DJs and ambiance that doesn’t let anyone sit at one place. Setup with the full bar and tasty food, Mambos drive itself to get jotted down in their best places to visit in North Goa at night. 

Who doesn’t love to be in Goa and enjoy a night with shots and drum filled beer? Well, rock the dance floor after bottoms up! Location: Tito’s Lane, Baga Timings: 8.00 PM-3.30 AM Entry fees:  For Mambo it is Rupees 1,500 for couples and Rupees 3,000 for stag entry Distance from Panaji: 17.3 Kms Book Now:  Eureka Skydeck Tickets Recommended Read:  Things To Do In Amsterdam

Best of Varkala

People Also Ask About Goa

Which are the best places to see in south goa in 2 days, which are the best places to visit in goa in 2 days with friends, which are the best places to visit in goa in 2 days for couples, what are the best things to do in goa in 2 days.

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Goa Top Attractions

Dudhsagar Falls of Goa is a majestic waterfall where the white water gushing through the steep and vertical face of the mountain portrays a cascading effect. Standing as tall as 310 metres, it makes sure to stand in the list of tallest waterfalls in India. The cascading effect of this waterfall gives rise to the illusion of a milky white sea falling from such a great height. This is how the Falls acquired its name – Dudhsagar Falls. The four-tiered waterfall marks its presence along the Mandovi River in the Sanguem taluka (Goa). The main river of Goa – Mandovi, originating from the Deccan Plateau winds its way through the twists and turns of the Western Ghats. As soon as the river plummets through the hilly cover lying along the borders of Karnataka and Goa, it transforms into Dudhsagar Falls.The moment the water gushing out from the Falls flow towards its feet, it forms a green pool at its base. It is from here that the water of the Dudhsagar Falls starts flowing westwards to join and be a part of the mighty Arabian Sea. The entire landmark in the backdrop of the falls is covered with a vastly stretched forest cover. This is how the Dudhsagar Falls form a part of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark the wildlife researching skills within you as there this sanctuary shelters a plethora of wildlife. In the past few years, the popularity of the Dudhsagar Falls has increased ten-fold as one of the most preferred weekend getaways from each of the cities of Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune. If you’ve got a big group or a family, you surely must check-in the Dudhsagar Falls for a short family outing. 

Also called St. Catherine's Cathedral this 16th-century masterpiece took 80 long years to finish and is one of the largest churches in the world. The Cathedral attains to the west of the great square called Terreiro de Sabato and has its face turned to the east. A flight of steps approaches its beautiful courtyard.  It was consecrated in 1640 and was built to honour the triumph of the Portuguese over the Muslim rulers of the city.Owing to such a magnificent aura and the glory, Se Cathedral has been stated as a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is known as the largest church in Asia, and also has a giant bell and its elegant architecture makes it a majestic white beauty. Se Cathedral also endures the honour of being the seat of the Archdiocese of Goa. Se Cathedral is home to the historic “Golden Bell” which is famous around the world as it is the largest bell with a rich sound. When you will visit the church now you will be amused to witness the amazing construction techniques and designs used while building the church. The intricate work on wood in the interiors of the church add to its beauty as it the wonderful work of art. This place is a combination of peace and beauty, visiting this place will not only rejuvenate you but will also fill you up with positivity.Legend of Saint Catherine of Se CathedralCredits: NagarjunCatherine was a lady who was considered as a Christian Saint according to tradition, and was martyred in the early 4th century at the hands of the pagan Emperor Maxentius. It is believed that she was both a princess and a noted scholar, who became a Christian at around the age of 14 and also converted hundreds of people to Christianity, and was martyred around the age of 18. Catherine was known to be a spiritual pathfinder and raise her voice against the oppression of the Christians under the rule of Roman emperor Maxentius. She was so strong and logical with her arguments that the king himself was incapable of countering them and has a then he formed a committee of 50 philosophers to debate her ideas.However, even the assembly conceded defeat in front of her and confessed Christianity as their belief. Out of anger, the king burnt the philosophers alive and sentenced st.catherine to prison. Catherine did not give up, and she was succeeded in converting not only the jailers but also the king's wife. It is believed that she showed the path of Christianity to 200 people. Even when she was facing the worse condition of her life, she continued to stretch the word of Jesus. She was honoured with the title of"patroness of the wheel-wrights" because it is believed then when she was fastened to a spiked wheel as it was mentioned in her death sentence the wheel broke and she was left uninjured. And when she was finally beheaded, it is said that angle took her remains and laid them to rest atop Mount Sinai. When you visit the Se Cathedral, you can witness the Saint Catherine ornaments, a crown portraying her royal birth and has a book in her hands, which signifies her sound knowledge as she points a spiked wheel, which reveals her martyrdom.Se Cathedral HistoryThe Cathedral is devoted to St. Catherine of Alexandria, it is said that it was built to celebrate the victory of the Portuguese ruler Alfonso Albuquerque who destroyed the Muslim army and took ownership of the city of Goa. Consequently, it is also called St. Catherine's' Cathedral. In 1953, the Cathedral was presented with "The Golden Rose" by Venerable Pope Pius XII. It is a gold ornament, which the Popes of the Catholic Church have traditionally favoured and given as a symbol of devotion or affection.You can witness it as it is placed on the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. It was approved by Governor George Cabral to be spread in 1552 on the remains of an earlier structure. The formation of the church began in 1562. The church was completed in 1619 and was consecrated in 1640.  It is a perfect place to experience a blend of peace and tranquillity. You will be filled with positivity when you will visit this sacred place.The architecture of Se Cathedral  The architecture of Se Cathedral is awe-inspiring and elegant. The architectural style is a blend of Gothic elements and typical Portuguese style, or you can say that the architecture style of the Se Cathedral is Portuguese-Manueline. There were two different techniques that were opted to make the church. The exterior was made in Tuscan style and the interior has been built in and Corinthian style. With dimensions of 250 feet long and 181 feet wide, this church has a  delightfully decorated entrance that measures around 115 feet in height. The church is amazingly decorated, yet the style is intriguing and simple. The Cathedral has been built on an elevated base of laterite, which is covered with the thick lime plaster.You can also see the bell tower which is located on the southern side of the façade. The building of the church is rectangular on the plan but has a cruciform layout in the interior. The main altar is devoted to Catherine of Alexandria, and you can also see several old paintings on either side of it. You can also see the Chapel, which is known as the Cross of Miracles, it is believed that there was an image of Christ that was said to have appeared in 1619. 

Baga is a famous beach destination in North Goa that attracts thousands of tourists and watersports lovers to its heart. The beach shares its coastal line from the environs of Sinquerim, Candolim, and Baga, with the Baga shore being more lively and enticing. This bubbly beach is one of the best in Goa that stays awake the whole night. Called as "The Hometown of Nightlife," Baga beach is reputed for its cranky music celebrations by late-night, mouth-watering food, designer shops, and adventure sports.Tourism in Goa’s coasts got ignited by 1960 after the famous summer gathering of hippies from San Francisco. Baga beach then became popular among foreigners and slowly more exciting ventures like fishing, paddleboarding, discos, and tattoo shops started in the mainland. Named after “Baga Creek in Baga”, the tidal residuary channel that drains into the Arabian sea, Baga beach in Goa is also well organized with parking facilities and is maintained tidy by the local governing authorities, besides experiencing hordes of travelers clubbing around. Baga town is surrounded by the Baga river, and spotting the place where the river and the “sea meet, is a beautiful view to bait your eyes. Dolphins can also spotted deeper in the blue ocean and there are some spotting trips organized by local ship owners to spot the sea mammal.

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10 new and best restaurants in Goa to visit on your next trip

By Pallavi Mehra

Over the last few years, the laid-back state of Goa has emerged as a culinary haven. A number of distinctive eateries have opened that are stepping up the ante when it comes to ambience, food, and service. Here are the 10 new restaurants in Goa you must visit soon. Bookmark this guide for your next foodie adventures!

10 new restaurants in Goa with gorgeous interiors, exciting summer menus, and picturesque views

Derived from the Japanese word for waves, Nami is a fine-dining Japanese eatery. Nestled within a historic 142-year-old bungalow turned restaurant, Chef Vijay Rai has whipped up delicious seafood in an intimate setting. Offering ​​​​Japanese cuisine focused on Izakaya-style dining, this eatery is perfect for an intimate dinner with friends and family. Our favourites from their extensive menu are the Braised Pork Belly, Mapo Tofu, Tiger Prawn Tempura, Chicken Teriyaki, Nami Special Fried Rice, Vegetable Gyoza, and sushi rolls. A special thumbs up to their cocktail menu, which leaves you impressed!

Born as an extension of the beloved Amour Delhi in Chanakyapuri, Amour Goa invites diners into its cosy embrace in the heart of Assagao's homely neighbourhood. Amour Bistro radiates charm at every corner, located within the historic walls of a 140-year-old Portuguese Goan home. At this welcoming indoor-outdoor restaurant, guests can expect delicious European bistro delicacies infused with the flavours of Kolkata. Chef Amrusha Pal Chaudhary's culinary creations deserve mention here as they show her passion towards food as an art. If you're unsure which dishes to try, simply ask the chef, and she'll gladly offer her top recommendations. Must-haves include the Pan-Roasted Sea Bass, Chef's Vegetable Garden, Pan-Seared Salmon, and Marjoram Roast Spring Chicken. With an artisanal cocktail menu inspired by the southern Mediterranean region, their drinks stand high.

Conceptualised by leading interior designer Shabnam Gupta of The Orange Lane, The Tanjore Tiffin Room is housed in a 150-year-old Portuguese bungalow in Anjuna . The cosy interiors adorned with French decor harmonize beautifully with the lush garden surroundings, evoking the atmosphere of a serene rainforest retreat. The sprawling eatery’s expert culinary team crafts authentic Tamilian small plates that are an ode to home-style cooking. Grab a table under the colourful fabric canopies or inside the salmon-hued room with hand-painted murals or the arresting red room. Order the Ghee Roast, Baby Prawn Masala, Vada Curry, Paneer Pepper Fry, Madras Railway Curry, Coromandel Clams, and Marina Beach Sundal, and you will not be disappointed! You'll also find a thoughtfully crafted cocktail selection like the X & The Sour Equation, Pondicherry Punch, Sundance Kid, and Tamil Sunrise, a LITT that will light your mood up.

Perched by the Chapora River in Siolim, ISSA’s menu seamlessly blends global inspirations with locally sourced ingredients, crafting visually striking and refined dishes. Crafted by interior designer Natasha Kochhar, the eatery exudes a Mediterranean charm, spanning two floors and boasting a central courtyard adorned with a majestic tree. The Chonak Ceviche, Dozen Mussels, Roasted Butternut Squash Salad, Ravioli, and Beef Carpaccio are packed with flavour. The vibrant tapestry of European locales inspires ISSA Goa's cocktail menu. The Butterfly Effect, P2 (Peru Picante), and The Grand Union cocktails are delightful. This is a perfect sundowner place that turns your mood around.

If you’re looking for a glamorous day or night out, go to W Goa. Rockpool is the hotel's beachside restaurant and bar with spectacular cliffside views overlooking the Arabian Sea and Vagator Beach, and it has been relaunched. This spot boasts exclusive access to a private beach, reserved solely for W guests. Whether you're craving a sun-kissed glow or a refreshing dip before indulging in food and cocktails, this place has everything you need. It serves ​​​​Mediterranean and European plates focusing on fresh seafood and signature W cocktails. Spice Traders is the property’s elegant pan-Asian eatery featuring inventive dishes from several Southeast Asian countries. The menu boasts some of the town's finest dim sum and sushi selections. Alongside classic cocktails, their skilled bartender is always ready to craft a drink tailored to your taste preferences upon request. We suggest grabbing lunch at Spice Traders and a sundowner at Rockpool.

Feliz is a charming open-air eatery that overlooks the Mandovi River and the hotel's scenic pool. It boasts an inviting ambience and a menu featuring Goan, Mangalorean, and Coastal cuisine. With its picturesque river view, this place provides a tranquil atmosphere that soothes the senses. True to its hotel name, it sits adjacent to a DoubleTree, further enhancing the overall experience. Comida is the property’s aesthetically pleasing eatery serving Goan and international cuisine. We particularly enjoy Comida's breakfast buffet. This place can be a go-to for big family celebrations in Panaji.

By Sanjana Ray

By Gaurav Sonavane

This eclectic beachside eatery celebrates Goa in its decor and culinary offerings. Interior designer Neetika Daga has crafted a tropical-style eatery focusing on the beautiful beach it is located on. This popular eatery offers scrumptious Goan-European plates like the Prawn Sol Kadi Ceviche with tender coconut and edible flowers, Moroccan Lamb Kebab, Mutton Liver Pate with caramelised onions, and Poached Seafood Kokum and Fresh Basil Burrata. At São, we recommend grabbing sunset cocktails and having a leisurely dinner. Also, thinking of getting a dip? Well, you can do that also here!

Located on a rooftop, this chic eatery offers awe-inspiring views of the Arabian Sea. The restaurant bar’s lip-smacking Middle Eastern fare and cocktails are crowd-favourites for good reason. Our top food picks are the Joojeh Kebabs, Kashkash Lamb Skewers, Hummus Bin Lahm, Avocado Labneh, Truffled Mushroom Baklava, Fig Salad, Harissa Chicken and Habibi Prawns. The house cocktails , including the Gold Souk, Spicy Sulaimani Chai, and Orange Kafir Martini, are innovative and refreshing.

Situated along the Baga River, this newly launched island restaurant is a haven for food enthusiasts and ambience aficionados. This multi-cuisine eatery offers panoramic vistas of the tranquil river it is located on. Featuring a striking jungle theme, the restaurant's interiors are visually arresting. At Birch, try the Camembert and Fig Parcel, Puffed Amaranth and Roasted Pearl Couscous Salad, Mushroom Galawat Kebab, Dahi Kataifi Kebab, Birch Forest 2.0, and Limoncello Tiramisu. The food offerings are nostalgic and are crafted using the freshest local ingredients.

Founded by restaurateurs Kartik Vasudeva and Agrini Satyarthi, Grumps is a lively neighbourhood bar and eatery offering Asian comfort food and inventive cocktails. This eatery, currently open for dinners and weekend lunches, is located in a charming Portuguese villa, Goro House, dating back to the 1930s. We suggest trying the Grilled Mushrooms, Summer Noodle Bowl, Avo Wonton ‘Tostada’, and Salmon Tartare from the food menu. Moreover, we love that the cocktail menu at Grumps highlights the importance of ‘classics done right,’ keeping balance and deliciousness at heart. All the cocktails on offer hit the spot!

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By Kajol Mathur

A memorable trip to GOA.

GOA IS CALLING YOU..................

Our plan was the most memorable one. We planned a short trip to goa.Though the climate was cool in Goa also,the trip was really a mind refresher. We were able to relax in the beach during the evenings.The waves moving up and down gave us peace of mind and the beach time gave us chance to talk with our family without any hindrance after a long time. We saw many fisherman moving in to the sea and catch fish. We also got many valuable things as a remembrance of Goa. Goa is definitely one of the best places one should visit at least once in a lifetime.

There is no better recreation than trying something new. Every year, we plan to visit a new place as family. This vacation, we went to the ones of the best tourist spots of India. We planned a 4 day trip to the Fun Capital of India, Goa

Goa is one of the famous places located in the south western region of our country. Goa is very well known for its beaches and places of worship. The main reason we selected Goa as our destination this year is the big number of beaches the place has. We made it to Baga Beach, Calanguate Beach, tito's lane, churches and many more.

How to reach goa:

By Air: Dabolim is the nearest airport. It is well connected from major cities of india like Mumbai,delhi,Pune,Chennai,etc. For foreigners , Goa's airport is located to the south at Vasco Da Gama, which is approx.43 km away from Baga.

By Rail : Thivim is the nearest railway station ,which is approx 19km away from Baga. Other nearest railheads are karmali (approx.26 km) and Margao (approx.49km).

By Road :Baga is the 10 minutes away from Mapusa and 30 minutes aay from the Goa's capital, panaji. Buses are always available from Baga to Panaji and Mapusa.

Day 1: So our 1st spot was Baga beach. we booked a resort there. the name was baga beach resort.

THE BAGA BEACH RESORT:

As our resort was 5minutes from the beach,

The Baga Beach resort is lovely resort, great ambience, and caring service. & then we had quick breakfast there and relaxed a bit.And went to the beach in the evening.

The evening spent there peacefully.

we had evening breakfast on baga beach.

And we went again that resort and night enjoyed in baga beach resort . that night was memorable one.

The 2nd day, we woke up at early morning & took a bath and got ready for wandering.So we walked out of the room. and we booked a mini van on the rent. and went to the see churches.We visited some of the famous beaches and churches of Goa.

About Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary

Sitting, right in the middle of the hillock this mighty church has three shrines of Mary, Our Lady of the Rosary and, Crucifixion of Jesus. Being the first church to built-in Goa it holds utmost significance in its tourism and, adding up to the most attractive places to visit in Panjim.

Previously, it was just a chapel in the early 15th century but, with time and tide, the chapel went through many transformations and, led to this massive structure which is elegantly built with influences of several architectural styles.

Location: North-Eastern Side of Central Square, Panjim 403001, India

Timings: All days 10 AM - 12:30 PM and 4 PM - 5:30 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: Approximately 1.6 km away.

About Basilica of Bom Jesus

The oldest withstanding Church of Goa, beautifully built under the influence of Portuguese architectural style, is one of the best places to visit in Panjim. The lovely marble floor embellished with valuable stones adds up to the charm of the magnificent church.

The cathedral of the Church holds the remains of St. Xavier's in a silver casket which is elegantly decorated and, worshiped by his devotees. Famed for its amazing architecture, this ornate structure survived since the 16th century.The locals believe the remains are eternal and, have obscure healing powers which in turn makes it one of the most attractive places to see in Panjim.

Location: Old Goa Road, Near Gandhi Circle, Goa 403402, India

Timings: All days of the week except Sunday (9:00 AM - 6:30 PM)

Sunday (10:30 AM - 6:30 PM)

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: Approximately 11 km

Church of St Francis of Assisi

This church is amongst the revered Roman Catholic churches. Known for its Barque and Corinthian architecture, the church’s interiors are finely inlaid with ornaments. On the tabernacle reside two statues – one of the Christ and the other of St. Francis of Assisi. Inside the church, the gilded interiors are beautifully decorated. There are numerous paintings depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi. The carved woodwork and frescos are also exquisitely done.

This is the only church in Goa with museum containing artifacts, sculptures, and paintings. This is one amongst churches in Goa that has items which are a testimony to a rich and thriving culture that thrived in this land several centuries ago.

Essential Information:

The church is located in North Goa, Goa, Velha Goa. The church is open on all days except on Sundays. Timings are between 7.30 in the morning to 6.30 in the evening. There are many tour operators providing Old Goa walking tours. In such walking tours, you have the opportunity to visit this church in addition to visiting other churches.

This is essentially a Christian ecclesiastical church and the first one of its kind to be built in Goa. Although small, the church is very elegant; this church was built by the Portuguese governor in 1510. Built in commemoration of St. Catherine, the church underwent subsequent modification before being finally rebuilt in 1952. The chapel is simplistic in its interior design. Rectangular window panes are an omnipresent characteristic of the interiors.

The church’s history dates back to the year when the Portuguese started to rule Goa. There is an inscription on a stone slab in the church premises which essays this fact. This church is definitely historically significant given that it existed during those glorious years of conquest and reclamation.

Located in Velha Goa, this church is open on all days of the week and is photographer friendly. Check with Cholta Cholta walking tours operators.

Then our whole day went to see the churches. we saw many churches.We looked many more churches and took lots of photos.

and after visiting churches we did lunch. and went to the calanguate beach. As it was evening time,high tides started.

on the day 3, we went to the beach for parasailing . it was great experience and enjoyed a lot.A visit to Goa is never complete without taking the fun of adventurous water sports in Goa.

Top Things to Do in Goa includes Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Rafting, Ocean Trek, Canyoning, Parasailing, Surfing, Camping, Dolphin Ride, Spice Village Tour, Sport Fishing, Partying at Titos Street, Visit to Dudhsagar Falls, Mandovi River Sunset Cruise etc.

Goa is a place with limitless chances to have fun and entertainment and this place would enthrall every adventure lover. Though it is known as the land of beaches, tourists from all over the world find it as a great spot for indulging in many breathtaking activities in water as well as on land.

And after we took some rest and we went to the tito's street for shopping. There are too much things available for shopping. & after done shopping we did fish spa.

and our last night we enjoyed a lot in tito's club& on the beach.

The nightlife on Baga beach is immensely happening as it's popular due to famous nightclubs like Mambo's,Tito's and Cavala. The pubs and restaurants are the main attractions of Goa where you can feature its real nightlife. You'll get different theme parties that have the relevant kind of music, which you definitely enjoy listening to it.If you are with your partner ,enjoy a candle light dinner night or go for a perfect goa meal in any seaside shacks. For more fun and enjoyment,head towards hip cocktails and dreams & try excellent variety of cocktails and shooters . For the one who loves music can enjoy rock and roll in cavala is more interesting that is organized every saturday night.

We had drinks,danced , had a chilled out time with the dinner near the beach. An amazing experience it was and by the time we reached it was already 2am.

The 3rd day we relaxed in the beach & went the resoer we booked. And after the enjoying club we went to the sleep .

Our morning was miserable because that day was our leaving day. then after took bath we went to at marlin food court in tito's lane.

The tropical climate has influenced the food of Goa making Goan food intense in flavours and spices. The staple food of the people of Goa is rice and fish curry. Most of their dishes use coconuts, rice, fish, pork, meat and local spices like kokum. Goa was a Portuguese colony prior to 1961 and hence the Portuguese influenced most of their food.

It was so spicy & very tasty.If you are visiting Goa, and want to taste its authentic cuisine, ditch the make shift restaurants on the beaches. Ask the locals and explore Goa’s calm neighborhoods, you will be more than rewarded.

And after Having food we went to the drink keventers milkshake .We did a fine shopping of all precious things available in goa and enjoyed our evening in Baga beach before returning back to hometown.& our trip was still remaining. Packed all the stuff,did some last minute shopping,had tattoos too.

IT WAS A UNFORGETTABLE TRIP..........:)

Hope my blog helps you with planning your next goa trip.If you have any queries please feel free like to get in touch. Also your feedback , comments on the blog post would be appreciated.My email address is [email protected] & follow me on my instagram id : @_globetrotter_girl_

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Global Gallivanting

The perfect 1 week holiday in north goa itinerary.

The Best North Goa Itinerary

Planning a holiday in goa here’s your perfect 1 week north goa itinerary for what to do and when to make the most of your holiday.

Goa is India’s most popular holiday destination due to its tropical beaches, vibrant night life and laid back lifestyle. Although Goa is most famous for its beaches there is so much more to a holiday in Goa than just lazing on the beach!  There is something in Goa for everyone and your holiday in Goa can be as relaxed or as action packed as you want! There’s so much to do so you’ll need to think about your Goa itinerary if you want to fit it all in.

What sets a holiday in Goa apart from other tropical beach destinations is the unique, magical mix of Indian and Portuguese culture that it would just be a crime not to explore fully so use my insider tips and 1 week Goa itinerary to make sure you get the most out of your holiday in Goa.

First things first: When to come and where to stay in Goa

The best time to holiday in Goa is the main tourist season which is between November and March when the weather is sunny, dry and not so humid.

First things, you’ll need to  get an Indian visa . If you’re visiting for less than 60 days then an E Tourist Visa is the quickest, easiest and cheapest way to get an Indian visa. See my post here for how to get an E Visa for India.

Goa is really very diverse and each beach offers a different scene so it’s worth researching a bit beforehand about the different beaches in Goa before choosing. Generally speaking South Goa is quieter , and mostly the realm of luxury resorts, apart from the popular more backpacker orientated resorts around Agonda and Palolem in the far South. North Goa is where most of the action is and where the best parties, nightlife , markets , restaurants and attractions are and where this Goa itinerary is based.

The beaches of Baga and Calangute are the most popular in Goa and have the most facilities and offer easy access to the rest of Goa, but they can get quite busy. The further South you go in Calangute and onto Candolim the less crowded and more upmarket it gets.  If you want something a bit quieter then check out the beautiful beaches of Morjim, Mandrem and Ashwem a bit further North.

Check out my favourite hotels and places to stay in Goa here. 

You can find direct flights to Goa with Thomas Cook Airlines from the UK and there are domestic flights that will connect you to the rest of India. You can also reach Goa by train or bus.

You might also want to get the Lonely Planet Goa Guidebook for more info, it also has Mumbai and Hampi which are popular and easy add ons to a Goa trip. The Love Goa Guide is also really good, especially for luxury and higher end places to stay, eat, shop, relax and things to do. The best Goa guidebook is by top blogger Rachel from  Hippie in Heels  has lived in Goa for years and recently put together  the Insider’s Guide to Goa E Book  This is the most comprehensive book about Goa out there, it’s 169 pages packed with all her amazing insider knowledge and local tips for Goa.  Get it here. 

For more on the different beaches in Goa and where to stay check out my Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Goa .

Your 1 Week Goa itinerary

Goa itinerary day 1: saturday – welcome to goa.

Your holiday in Goa starts here! You will probably be pretty tired from the flight so grab a pre paid taxi from the airport to your hotel. To get the best out of your holiday in Goa you’ll need your own transport as public transport is not very convenient and taxis charge exorbitant prices. Most guesthouses and hotels should be able to arrange scooters and motorbike hire (about 300 rupees a day) and this is definitely the best way to get around and explore Goa.

Once you’re all sorted with your accommodation and transport hopefully there’s still time to zip down to the beach to get your first dip in the warm Arabian sea, feel the sand in your toes and catch your first Goan sunset they are pretty spectacular!

Eat : South Anjuna Beach is one of my favourite spots to swim, chill and catch the sunset as it’s not so crowded as the main part of Anjuna beach, you don’t get hassled by vendors and the sea is nice and calm. Curlies is a famous beach shacks here that has been around since Anjuna’s hippie days. Curlies has a lively atmosphere and is a popular party place.

NightLife : On Saturdays don’t miss the amazing Saturday Night Market at Arpora. This huge market situated between Anjuna and Baga is the best place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, handicrafts, sarongs. There are many Indian sellers and also some foreigners and hippies who sell unique handmade clothes, jewellery and other things. The night market is also a bit of a party as there is a bar, many food stalls, live bands and music that goes into the early hours of Sunday morning. Don’t miss it!

Goa Itinerary Day 2: Sunday – Relaxing Beach Day

Relax into your holiday in Goa with day lazing on one of the beaches. Start to fully relax into your holiday with an ayruvedic massage and take a yoga class , all kinds of yoga are on offer in Goa and people come from all over the world to take a yoga retreat here or if you are feeling a little more active then you could try some water sports, take a cookery class or climb up to Aguada Fort or Chapora Fort for amazing views at sunset.

Eat : Relax and eat at a beach shack by day and later you must check out The German Bakery, tucked away on a side road just before the Flea Market it’s almost an institution in Anjuna. The German Bakery serves an interesting selection of healthy food in a super nice, chilled out spot. It’s a good place to hang out under the colourful Tibetan prayer flags and there is also a good beauty and massage place here and lots of posters where you can find out all the yoga and alternative therapies that are going on nearby.

Nightlife : Goa is famous for its lively psytrance scene and Hilltop in Vagator is one of the best places to experience Goa trance with a party night on every Sunday. Check out this post for more info on parties.

Goa Itinerary Day 3: Monday – Explore Inland Goa

A holiday in Goa has much more to offer than just beaches. Prise yourself off the sun lounger and hire a driver or take a day tour for a fascinating day exploring more of Goa’s nature, culture and history.

Head into the jungle for a refreshing swim in Dudhsagar waterfall and then learn about why spices are so important with a visit to a lush, tropical  spice plantation . Goa was ruled by the Portuguese for nearly 500 years which is why it has such a unique culutre and history so don’t miss visiting the impressive, UNESCO listed Portuguese churches of Old Goa . Also make time to explore Panjim , Goa’s capital, check out the stunning Church of our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and the colourful old Portuguese architecture around Fontainhas.

The daily cost to hire a car with a driver should be around 2000 rupees or you could take a tour.  This is a pretty full on day, if you have more time in Goa you could split this over 2 days if you want to explore at a slower pace.  This great value Waterfall, Plantation and Old Goa tour takes you on a jeep safari through Mollen National Park to Dudhsagar Waterfall, visits a luscious spice plantation, the churches of Old Goa and includes a traditional Goan lunch. See full details here.

Eat : Most of the Spice Plantations include a Goan buffet lunch in the entrance price or Panjim has some great restaurants, Try Mum’s Kitchen – famous for Goan food or popular Hotel Venite.

Nightlife : You’ll probably be pretty tired so maybe just have a relaxed meal with some live music/ jam session to wind down after your day exploring. Or, if you still want to party how about a  party on a boat!

Read More: 16 Things to do Off The Beach in Goa

Goa itinerary day 4: tuesday – beaches, beaches and more beaches.

There are so many beaches you can explore while on holiday in Goa! Get on the scooter, feel the wind through your hair and soak in the gorgeous countryside and explore further up the coast. Check out quiet Morjim Beach , the home of rare Olive Ridley turtles, the wide, empty sands of Mandrem and the hip Ashwem . Don’t miss hippy Arambol , head over the cliffs at the North end of the beach and discover Kalacha Beach with it’s cute sweet water lake or head further up to quiet Keri (Querim) Beach with it’s cute cupcake like pink temple.

Eat : There are some amazing restaurants and famous beach shacks on this stretch – Try Sublime in Morjim, Café NU in Mandrem or La Plage in Ashwem (possibly the best beach shack ever!) If your exploring further Tiracol Fort has been converted into a heritage hotel and has a good restaurant with a view or you can just try one of the many cheap beach shacks along the coast.

Nightlife : Try to be in Arambol for sunset as each night hippies, backpackers and long stayers set up a cute little market along the beach and you’ll see all kinds of weird and wonderful people practising yoga, meditation, fire dancing or juggling and the drum circle that Arambol is famous for.

On South Anjuna Beach, Shiva Valley has a big and hugely popular Psy Trance party each Tuesday night that starts at sunset and goes on till sunrise – come and see why Shiva Valley is called the temple of trance!

Goa Itinerary Day 5: Wednesday – Anjuna Flea Market

While on holiday in Goa you simply can’t miss the famous Anjuna Flea Market that is held every Wednesday. What started off as a way for hippies converge and raise funds to carry on their travels is now largely a mainstream affair that sprawls from the beach and back into the paddy fields of Anjuna village in a colourful array of sarongs, spices and souvenirs but it’s still great fun and an essential Goan experience. You can pick up handicrafts and souvenirs from all over India here just don’t forget to haggle hard if you are looking for a bargain and check out the interesting unique, hippie run stalls.

Eat : If you tire of looking at the stalls and haggling with the vendors there are quite a few places to grab a bite to eat. The best is Café Loodas which is right on the sea front and usually has a live band playing. It’s the perfect place to chill out after shopping.

Nightlife : If Psy Trance isn’t your thing then check out Club Cubana a huge nightclub perched on top of a hill in Arpora (between Anjuna and Baga) Club Cubana plays more commercial and chart music and has an open bar. On Wednesdays it’s Ladies Night which means the girls get to enter and drink all night for free!

Read More: An Insider’s Guide to Goa: The Best Restaurants in Anjuna

Goa Itinerary Day 6: Thursday – Cycle around unspoilt Divar and Chorao islands

The sleepy inland islands of Divar and Chorao are like stepping back in time. Get off the beaten track and away from the tourist crowds and discover the picturesque inland Goan villages, countryside and bird sanctuaries at a relaxed pace on a cycling tour of unspoilt Divar and Chorao Islands! See more details here.

If you feel like doing something with more of an adrenaline rush you can now try the newest extreme watersport – flyboarding and jetpacking in Goa!  Or you could experience the magic of a hot air balloon flight and get 360 degree views over the jungles and coastline of Goa.

Eat : You can taste authentic village food on the cycling tour.

Nightlife : Ever popular Curlies shack on South Anjuna Beach is where it’s happening for Psy Trance on Thursdays.

Goa Itinerary Day 7: Friday – Mapusa Local Market

Goa is one of the most westernized states in India but you can still get a taste of ‘ real India’ and feel the hustle and bustle of local life at   Mapusa Market, it’s on every day apart from Sunday but it’s busier on Fridays and most tourists visit then. After the hustle and bustle of the market then return to your favourite beach and treat yourself with a refreshing swim and soak up as many rays as you can before your holiday in Goa sadly ends.

Eat : If it’s your last night on holiday in Goa then make it one to remember and eat at one of the best restaurants in all of Goa – Thalassa , perched on the cliffs overlooking Vagator beach. The Greek food and chilled ambience is just as amazing as the views. Sunset here is amazing but you’ll need to make a reservation call (+91) 98 50 033 537

Nightlife : On the cliffs overlooking Vagator Beach near Thalassa, Waters is a swish multi level club with a pool and sea view that has a popular techno party on Friday nights.

Read More: How to Rent a House in Goa and Live in Paradise for less than £10 a day.

Got more than 1 week for a holiday in Goa? Awesome – explore the pristine and empty sands of South Goa, stay in a colourful beach hut in the beautiful crescent bay of popular Palolem and take the train to explore the magical ruins of Hampi !  I just took my Mum on a 2 week trip to Goa, Hampi and Mumbai. Check out our itinerary here. 

Read More: 30 Incredible India Bucket List Experiences.

By the way: I’ve put this itinerary together carefully based on the days that markets and parties usually happen so sorry, for some things you can’t switch it round and visit the Flea Market on Monday or Hilltop on Thursday because it won’t be open!

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An Insider’s Guide to Goa: The Best Restaurants in Vagator

21 things i wish i’d known before traveling to india.

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Anna! OMG I had no idea you could do a backwaters tour in Goa. Learn something new every day!

Great and comprehensive article on Goa. Anjuna is definitely where it’s at.

I think Palolem has started to retain a bit of its charm again (after a brief onslaught of Russian tourists). Also, Little Cola beach is great little hidden gem!

Hi Samir! Thanks, yes the backwaters and hinterlands of Goa are still quite unexplored compared to the busy beaches. Arambol is another great hippie area too – Anjuna is good for partying but can get a bit noisy and busy. I haven’t visited Palolem again this season but Cola is great – I don’t want to write about it because I don’t want anyone else to know about it!

I am planning to go in June and July. Want to stay for like 15-20 days in goa.. Will it be a good time to go. Would love to meet new people cz m traveling alone.. and how are the hostels in goa?

Hi Uttam, thanks for reading and commenting. To be honest, June and July is monsoon time and not peak season so it’s not the best time to visit. I wrote more about the pros and cons here – http://www.global-gallivanting.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-visiting-goa-in-monsoon-season/ June and July is a good time to head to the mountains places like Rishikesh, Manali and Ladakh are where most people go at this time. There are lots of good backpacker hostels in Goa which are great for meeting people check out my top 10 hostels here – http://www.global-gallivanting.com/8-best-hostels-goa/ Hope this helps you 🙂

Hi! I was wondering which towns you recommend staying in for each night on the itinerary? We’d love to stay in a couple of different places and we’re planning to follow all your recommendations!

Hi Darcey! Thanks for stopping by – I’m so glad to hear that you’ve liked my blog and it’s helping you plan your trip to Goa. For most of these places you can base yourself in Anjuna/ Vagator area or even Baga and Calangute but I don’t like that area much. It’s only an hours drive from there to the very North of Goa or down to Panjim and it saves messing around moving hotels. The Old Goa, Waterfalls and spice farm trip is a bit further but still best done as a day trip. I’ve recommended some hotels in my big Goa guide http://www.global-gallivanting.com/flashpackers-guide-goa/ I’m planning to write more before the new season but send me an email if you want any more tips 🙂 Have a great trip!

its really nice place to visit goa. I am looking to go out for goa this month.

Yes I love Goa – hope you have a good trip 🙂

Thank you so much Ana for this fantastic resource! I am planning my first visit (my first solo vacation – detox for the soul :)) and I am super excited to have found your article.

Great to hear that you are going to Goa and I’m really glad my article has helped you.

Hope you enjoy your trip 🙂

Hi Anna I’m from Sonipat, Haryana near Delhi. I’m planning to visit Goa in January for 8days with my family of four( 2 kids age 10;13yrs) I find your article very informative. It clears most of the queries all by itself. Will it be suitable to book hotel at one place for whole Goa trip?

Hi Akshay, a trip to Goa with the family in January sounds ideal! Yes, Goa is small and you can easily stay in one hotel (better if it’s more centrally located) and explore Goa and do day trips from there. I’m planning to write a more detailed guide about where to stay soon. Hope you have a nice time in Goa 🙂

I found your article very goods. I have planned my holidays from 9-16 August. Pls advise what are the must visit places during Mid-August and pubs/DJ party spots during Monsoon. I will be staying in Panjim.

I love rain and greenery so i booked during monsoon.

Thanks your article reply goods. Regards Pram

Glad you found the article useful.

Monsoon is a great time to go to Goa for the lush greenery, less crowds and lower prices but there are not so many parties happening in monsoon although I think Hilltop has a special monsoon party sometime in August.

I’ve got a post about the best party places in Goa here – http://www.global-gallivanting.com/nightlife-ingoa-the-best-clubs-and-parties-in-goa-india/ I’ve included links to the facebook pages of the clubs so you can check out what will be on when you come. Hope it’s useful for you.

You might also like this post about Goa in monsoon – http://www.global-gallivanting.com/where-to-stay-in-goa-monsoon/

Hope this helps and hope you have a great trip! 🙂

Hey, really loved this and the whole website..I was thinking to coming to India next Oct/Nov..would 3 months be ok to see India or would I need more time?also any hostels u reccomment in Goa?

Hope u can help

Hey Umesh – you would need a lifetime to see all of India but 3 months is a good start. Check out my 3 month India backpacking route here -http://www.global-gallivanting.com/the-perfect-india-itinerary/ and my favourite hostels in Goa here – http://www.global-gallivanting.com/8-best-hostels-goa/ Hope you have a great trip! 🙂

Hi Anna This side Harjeet I m planning to come Goa with my wife could u plz help me by telling me about night markets in October……

Hi Harjeet – sadly the night markets don’t usually start until November 🙁 but the wednesday flea market in Anjuna should be on

Hi Anna! Your blog proved to be expremely helpful. Thanks for sharing your experience. Cheers.

Thanks, glad it helped. Hope you have a great holiday 🙂

hi anna, i want to plan for 1 week goa trip in this june’2018. but little worried about monsoon. i m going with my family 2 adults + 2 kids. please tell me if there is any big issues in this time period. i don’t have any option than this dates.

Hi yes it is monsoon then – its quiet and wet and most of these events will not be happening but some people love it – read these posts to help you decide http://www.global-gallivanting.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-visiting-goa-in-monsoon-season/ http://www.global-gallivanting.com/where-to-stay-in-goa-monsoon/ Hope you have a good trip

Anna, this post really took to me to goa, what a vivid description. i visited goa last year and it was fantastic and i would tell you that i followed your article as well, great places. But i also enjoyed Ferri Rides in goa, which you have not covered. would love to hear your opinion about that

Hi Shama. Glad you liked my Goa itinerary! I sometimes take the ferry from Keri to Fort Tiracol in Maharashtra. Makes a lovely daytrip 🙂

Hi Anna, I’ve found your article most informative from the 1000’s, yes, 1000’s of articles I’ve read to research India. Im staying in Goa from 24 Dec-2 Jan. Which place is best to book accommodation? I definitely want to do 1 or 2 trance parties, but don’t want to stay in the busy party areas. I want somewhere close enough to the party scene to not have to travel more than 30mins after a night out. Liezl😀

Glad it was useful – years of living here went into that post. I wrote it to help my friends when they come to visit me and now its got popular!

It’s a tricky question to answer because this is the busiest time of year in Goa so there’s alot of traffic. For example on NYE roads can get gridlocked and taxis are more expensive so you don’t want to travel too far but then the places near the parties will be busy and noisy. For trance parties base yourself in Anjuna or Vagator. Can check my recommendations in this post – https://www.global-gallivanting.com/best-places-stay-goa-beaches-budgets/

Hope this helps and hope you have a great time in Goa. 🙂

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Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Goa & Rainy Season (2024/2025)

Goa is a popular beach destination in India. As it is affected by the monsoon from June to October, the best times to visit Goa are from November to April with less rain and better weather.

The Best Times to Visit Goa

The worst time to visit goa, monthly weather in goa, monsoon season in goa (june to october), dry season in goa (november to february), hot season in goa (march to may).

While the best times to visit Goa are from November to April weatherwise, this can depend on your Goa holiday purposes, budget, and weather preferences.

For the finest weather conditions , sightseeing experiences, and water activity conditions, December to February is the best period. You can expect a prefect beach time with sunny, dry, and warm weather.

For the best times to visit Goa for your honeymoon or family trip , consider November to early December and March to April. These are times with relatively few tourists and good weather. Of course, December to February is also a great time if you don't mind crowds.

You can expect lower prices from May to October, which is the rainy season, with 30–50% off offered by many hotels and flights.

If you are thinking about an India trip, just contact us and we would be glad to share advice on the perfect timings and activities for you.

Get inspiration from our itinerary ideas for 10 days , and  2 weeks  or contact us to tailor-make one just for you!

For a good travel experience, June to August is best avoided, as these months see extremely heavy rain (0.5–1 meters of rain per month!) with less than 4 hours of sunshine per day and averaging 20 rainy days each month. Torrential rain storms are accompanied by strong winds.

Many attractions like national parks and restaurants will close during this period.

If you want a favorable price and don't want to be affected so much by the rains, you may consider traveling in May, September, and October, which are at the transition months of the monsoon with only moderate to high rainfall and around 10 days of rain per month.

Frequent showers and occasional hurricanes hit Goa during its monsoon season. June to August suffer huge quantities rainfall, and June/July is the peak.

The abundant rainfall makes the Dudhsagar Waterfalls flow at their most spectacular. In June, there will be one of the important festivals in Goa — Sao Joao Festival. People jump into streams, wells, and ponds, which signifies the happiness of St John the Baptist when Jesus was born, and they pray for a good monsoon and harvest.

The rainy season in Goa might discourage some people from going on holiday there, but during this period, Goa is relatively cool at 29°C (84°F) compared to the 35°C (95°F) temperatures in other parts of India, so many locals choose to escape the heat there.

Lower prices, few tourists, and lush shades of green are the advantages of traveling in Goa in the monsoon if you don't mind the disruption of your plans by storms. What you should note is that on heavy rainy days with strong winds, some attractions and restaurants close.

Goa's dry season features comfortable summer temperatures and clear, sunny weather. It is the best time of the year to visit Goa.

The perfect weather is suitable to for all kinds of sightseeing and activities, like swimming, snorkeling, hiking, photography, and more.

In Christmas and New Year, Goa will be embraced by a strong festival atmosphere. The sound of carols echoes from the walls of the churches. Parties on the beach and bars, music, and fireworks are also indispensable elements of the celebrations.

Accordingly, the perfect weather brings a rise in prices. Accommodation is in high demand, especially from late December to February. If you are planning a trip in this peak season, it is better to book one or two months in advance.

Get some inspiration about  How to Plan an Affordable Luxury Trip to India .

In Goa's hot season, you can expect less crowding than during the dry season and rainless weather until late May. This is also a good time to visit Goa, especially between March and April.

Most of the time is suitable for water activities, sunbathing, and sightseeing. At the end of May there is some monsoon influence, but not much.

One of Goa's biggest festivals, Shigmo Festival (Goa's version of Holi) falls in March or April. The processions with traditional Goan dances and modern floats are the highlight.

You can expect reasonable prices during this period. Heat averaging 33°C (91°F) in the middle of the day is an unavoidable element of the hot season. Remember to bring some sun protection. It could be a good idea to wait to go out until after 3 or 4 pm.

You Might Like to Read

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12 Useful tips to visit Goa on a budget

This website contains no sponsored content. The content is written entirely on my own and is based on my personal experience and extensive research. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

I am super excited to be writing this post! Why? Because I am writing about my most favourite Indian destination – Goa and because I will be sharing all the wisdom that I have gathered from my many trips to Goa to help you visit Goa on a budget. 

Now, I know you will find plenty of naysayers around who will convince you that it is impossible to visit Goa on a budget. You will also find a few souls around who will make you believe that if you want to truly enjoy the spirit of Goa, you must set aside a minimum budget for Goa trip that’s almost equivalent to a few months worth of your salary!  

But if you are someone that has been pushing a trip to Goa only because of budget constraints, I urge you to – 

• read this post and 
• ignore everyone who tells you to set aside massive amounts of money for your Goa trip budget. 

Ha! So now that I have you on board, it’s time for me to tell you how to visit Goa on a budget and how to have fun doing it! 

Let’s get started, shall we?

How to visit Goa on a budget?

First, let me reassure you that each of the tips that I am about to share with you is one that I have tried and tested plenty of times. Travelling to Goa using these budget hacks has always helped me save thousands and thousands of rupees! 

So here is how you can visit Goa on a budget – 

Travel in the shoulder seasons

I will not be ridiculously harsh on you and tell you to travel to Goa in the summer when the temperatures touch 40 degrees celsius and visiting any beach would only equal getting yourself burnt. 

But that said, if you want to save your hard-earned (or hard-borrowed!) cash, you need to avoid Decembers. In terms of costs, a typical ‘Goa in December budget’ is usually at least 75% to 100% higher than Goa in any other month. Therefore, it is best to avoid this time if you don’t have a high budget. 

The best months to travel to Goa are the shoulder season months of late October and early March or any period close to these shoulder-season days as possible. 

But would that mean lesser fun? 

No! It certainly would not! Goa in December is a huge crowded pool of tourists and tourist scams. 

I have visited Goa in almost every month of the year (including the terrible harsh summers and the mad monsoons), and the least fun I have had in Goa is in December. 

Also here is some useful math for you – 

Goa expenses for 3 days in December = Goa expenses for 5-6 days in other months! 

Convinced? Let’s move on! 

Choose to travel on weekdays

If you plan on visiting Goa for just about 3-4 days, make sure you choose weekdays instead of weekends. 

Most working people tend to visit Goa on weekends. Thus, the weekend is the best time for the hotels, clubs and restaurants in Goa to make their moolah!

That’s precisely why most of these places have steeper rate cards for guests visiting them on weekends. 

But, if you want to stick to your budget, you need to steer clear of these traps. Basically, avoid being in Goa on weekends!

What do you risk missing out on? Long waiting periods outside restaurants and clubs, terrible customer service and the company of angry, disheartened guests! 

Travel to Goa by train

Ok, I know time equals money but travelling to Goa by air (to save time) does not mean saving money at all! In fact, in most cases, it does not even save time! 

Wait, I know how confusing this must sound to you. But let me explain. 

The number of times and the number of hours by which our flights to and from Goa have got delayed is a figure that definitely runs into double digits. 

I have no idea what it is about the air traffic at Goa airport that results in such delays, but no matter what airlines I choose, I almost always have to spend a few terribly boring extra hours at the Goa airport. 

Plus, I am not exaggerating when I say this, but the food stalls at Goa airport are worse than the food stalls at railways stations. All that they serve are varieties of stale pattice, samosa and chai and coffee in small paper cups! 

Therefore, instead of missing out on this fun-filled air travel experience, I always prefer opting for a train journey whether or not I am on a budget. A train journey to Goa (especially when travelling from Mumbai) is a joy-ride.

Travel in the Tejas Express from where you get to enjoy exotic views of the beautiful Sahyadri mountain ranges while sipping on hot chai and pampering yourself to the freshly made hot bhajiyas, cutlets, Vada Pavs, Cheese toasts served in Indian railways along the way.

Now let’s look at how much money you will save by travelling to Goa by train – 

A train journey from Mumbai to Goa costs only about Rs. 500 per person in Non-AC compartment and Rs. 1,500 in two-tier AC compartments. Whereas, travelling to Goa by air on one of the budget airlines that do not serve food costs approximately Rs. 3000-5000 (if booked in advance). 

Thus, train travel not only guarantees more fun but swill easily save you a few thousand rupees per person, each way! Its truly is the best way to ensure a low budget Goa trip! 

Base yourself in South Goa

There is a widespread misconception that South Goa is for oldies and family travellers while North Goa is for party-goers and youngsters. 

But the truth is that North Goa is for typical tourists and South Goa is for real travellers. This means that North Goa is full of eateries, party places, clubs and joints that only cater to tourists. Most of the areas in North Goa are crowded, over-priced and almost always disappointing. 

The beaches in North Goa have lost all of their natural charm on account of their over-exploitation by tourists. 

And the biggest reason to avoid North Goa is the high price of its resorts, hotels and homestays . The accommodation close to Baga, Calangute and Anjuna is significantly overpriced and offers very little value for money.  ( Check my in-depth article on where to stay in Goa here )

(But hey, if it’s your first time visiting Goa, then you must visit North Goa. Read our detailed post on the best places to visit in North Goa here .)

On the contrary, South Goa continues to retain its charm without stripping you off your savings!

The Goa resorts in South Goa are far less crowded and relatively cheaper than those in North Goa. Moreover, I have always found South Goa budget hotels to be cleaner and well-looked after. 

Again, this does not mean that you should skip North Goa altogether. You can always visit North Goa on day trips. South Goa to North Goa distance is only about 70 km if you base yourself close to Agonda.

The South Goa to North Goa distance will be cut down further by about 20 kilometres if you stay in Benaulim or Colva. 

GOA: PLANNED FOR YOU

Benefit from our expertise in Goa. Save hours of trip planning effort, save thousands of rupees on travel agents and kill trip planning overwhelm.

Get access to the best Goa trip plan with specially curated stay recommendations, restaurant suggestions, day-wise break-up of things to do, a fully interactive Goa map and much more in a single downloadable pdf.

Stay in hostels or homestays

The  numero uno  reason why Goa is such a popular destination is its ‘chilled out’ or sushegaat vibe. The shacks along the beaches, the many cafés and restaurants and the full-moon parties give Goa its charm. 

There aren’t many places in India that exhibit this vibe and that have the  infrastructure  that Goa has   to make chilling, relaxing, hanging out or partying so much fun. 

And the best way to absorb this fun, relaxed vibe is by meeting new people and being ‘available’ for interaction with locals and fellow tourists. 

In my opinion, hostels are the best way to engage in such interactions. Plus, hey – hostels are cheap! Enjoying Goa on a shoestring budget is impossible without staying at hostels. 

This is because hostels prove to be substantially cheaper than the many places advertised as Goa budget hotels or Goa budget resorts. 

(Hey, here you can easily find a huge variety of hostels)

( Or if you don’t want to look for accommodation yourself, here is our readymade Goa travel plan )

However, if you aren’t a hostel person, the other alternative, particularly suitable for introverts or those travelling as a couple or with their family is to opt for homestays. Homestays provide an incredible opportunity of experiencing Goa like a local.

You can cook your food here or share a meal with your host to get a feel of real Goa and cut down on restaurant expenses! 

And that takes me to my next point – 

Eat at roadside stalls, bakeries or beach shacks

You will read plenty of travel bloggers raving about the food at the Fisherman’s Wharf or Thalassa. But let me break the  first, and the only  bad news to you – these restaurants make you dig deep into your pocket. 

So does that mean you miss out on all the yummilicious food Goa has to offer? No. It means that you skip ‘touristy’ places and hog on the yumminess of authentic Goan food. 

The food served in most top-end restaurants is curated to cater to urban masses. I am not saying it tastes terrible. I am only suggesting that there are plenty of cheap, delectable and more authentic options available in the market. 

To begin with, eat the famous yet modest Russ omelette on a roadside stall in Goa.

You could even hog on the goodies sold in any local bakery in Goa. My favourite is the German bakery in Benaulim, which is always full of customers brimming with joy!

Finally, if you ever feel like actually sitting down at a restaurant for one of your meals, opt for a friendly shack on any of the beaches.

The prices of food in shacks has also gone up considerably over the past few years given their growing popularity. But the prices still remain low compared to the other air-conditioned / decked-up restaurants in Goa. 

To ensure that a visit to a beach shack does not damage your Goa trip budget plan, do not plonk your butt in the first shack next to the entrance of any beach.

The ‘prime’ the location of the shack, the higher it will cost to you. Be wise and choose a shack towards the deeper end of the beach! 

Buy your booze from a wine shop. 

Ok, let’s come to the real reason why everyone visits Goa – cheap alcohol. But hey, I am about to drop a truth bomb on you right now. 

The cheap alcohol that you’re craving for will not be found in restaurants or shacks. These places are tourist centres and always sell alcohol for a considerable premium.

The thrill you seek from drinking cheap alcohol will be available to you if you buy alcohol from wine shops. 

Yes! Buy your favourite spirits for throwaway prices at wine shops! 

Pints of beer in Goa will cost you approximately Rs. 60. The local variant, Kings, will be even cheaper. Even whiskey, rum, vodka, and tequila (basically everything that falls within the broad definition of alcohol) will be 30-40% less expensive in Goan wine shops. 

To give you an example, a Jim Bim Kentucky Bourbon 750 costs approximately Rs. 2,600 in Mumbai. Whereas in Goa, you only need to spend Rs. 1,400 on it! 

But let me reiterate, you lose this advantage if you drink at bars, clubs, fancy restaurants or even beach shacks. 

Buy your booze from wine shops if you want to experience the real ‘high’ of cheap alcohol! 

( Quick side note – Do you want to carry your cheap alcohol from Goa to your hometown? Read our post with all the rules on carrying alcohol on a domestic flight here .)

Rent a bike (or a car only if you are travelling in a large group!)

(Find the best car here )

We have saved thousands of rupees on our trips to Goa by ditching cars and travel-operated vehicles. Instead, we always rent a bike or scooter. 

The daily scooter rental in Goa ranges between Rs. 250-300 depending on where you stay and how solid your bargaining skills are. If you are a family that can’t fit on a scooter, rent a car and drive it on your own. Cars are available for rent in Goa for approximately Rs. 1,000 per day. 

Note that a chauffer-driven tourist car for a day in Goa costs nothing less than Rs. 2,000/-.

So your budget for Goa trip will come down considerably if you rent a scooter or a car. Moreover, Goa’s petrol prices are also approximately 15-20% lower than the petrol prices in other metropolitan cities of India.

Also, if you are one of our non-Indian readers, don’t panic! Driving in Goa is safer than driving in other parts of India thanks to the fantastic road conditions and adherence to traffic rules on main roads and highways. 

Do not explore Goa through tour operators

You will find tour operators in Goa vying for your attention in almost every popular lane. Many will even tempt you with Goa budget packages that will promise you to show all the main sightseeing attractions to you for a super low price. 

But trust me, even these cheap prices prove to be considerably higher than the cost of exploring these places on your own using your rented vehicle. 

Also, as I often state in most of my articles, the beauty of exploring a place on your own is unparalleled. It gives you hundreds of opportunities to interact with locals, make friends, and soak in the area’s cultural vibe. 

In short, leave the tour operators alone! They aren’t for you! 

Check out free attractions in Goa

There are plenty of free attractions in Goa to meet the needs of your Goa budget plan.

The good news for budget travellers is that most of these free attractions easily beat paid attractions in terms of their value. 

So skipping visits to paid touristic attractions such as zoos, spice farms, and cruises won’t hurt you at all. Most paid attractions fall way short in terms of giving you the real feel of Goa. 

To experience the authentic charm of Goa, visit its many beaches. Read my full in-depth guide with practical information on all the best beaches in Goa here.

Similarly, Goa’s famous forts such as the Aguada fort and the Chapora fort are also free for visitors. 

You could also experience the quiet side of Goa by visiting one of the many churches in Goa. 

What’s great about these places is that they are easily accessible by scooters and cars. You also do not need a guide at any of these places. 

Avoid water-sports in Goa

Water-sports in Goa are expensive and are the best way of going way over your Goa tour budget.  Period. 

If you have enjoyed water-sport activities at any other destination in the past, you can avoid these expensive money-making traps. 

If you have never tried out water-sport activities in the past, I highly recommend you to try those out in cheaper neighbours of Goa such as Gokarna or Tarkarli in Konkan!

Not only are these activities more affordable here, but the water at the beaches is also cleaner, and the overall experience is more rewarding! 

Avoid shopping in Goa

You will find plenty of shopping areas in Goa typically outside major beaches. The shops here sell sarongs, swimsuits, kaftans, hats, jewellery and other Indian knick-knacks. In addition to these markets, you will find proper market areas that sell cashews to tourists. 

Besides these types of shops, Goa is also home to several organised flea markets that sell Indian spices, teas, carpets, handlooms etc. 

But truth be told, none of the items sold in any of these markets is cheap.

Even cashews that were once a signature Goa product now sell at rates similar to those in Mumbai, Delhi, and other Indian metropolitan areas. 

Basically, shopping in Goa is absolutely not worth it if you are travelling on a budget. It is best to avoid it altogether if you want to restrict yourself to a small budget. 

How much does a budget trip to Goa cost?

So now that we know what exactly to do to save money and yet enjoy Goa to the fullest let’s see how much a cheap trip to Goa should cost you – 

Stay in a hostel or budget hotel or homestay – Rs. 500 per person, per night (Cheaper if not travelling solo)

Scooter rental- Rs. 350 per day

Petrol expense- Rs. 100 per day 

Food expense- Rs. 500 per person per day

Alcohol- Rs. 200 per person per day

Sightseeing- Nil

Shopping- Nil

Total expenses on a trip to Goa on a budget – Rs. 1,600 per day

Note that you can cut down this budget further if – 

• you travel as a couple and benefit out of double occupancy discounts
• limit your sightseeing and petrol expenses
• eat only at roadside stalls and bakeries
• do not drink

Now, you need to add the expenses of train travel to this budget. 

So travel to/from Goa by train (non-AC)— Rs. 400-1000 one way. 

Thus, if you plan properly, you should easily manage a 4 day trip to Goa in approximately Rs. 5,000 per person! 

So what are you waiting for? Stop making excuses and pack your bags already! 

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Don’t forget to check out our travel guides on other amazing places in India here .

TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES

Here is a list of our favorite travel resources- the ones that I absolutely swear by when planning almost every trip. Go through this list to plan a hassle-free trip and save a lot of money!

Flight Booking: Check the availability of tickets, the best time to fly, and the cheapest fares on Skyscanner . You may also find a cheap flight via CheapOair

Accommodation: I absolutely love booking through Agoda . In most countries and particularly in Asia, I often find the best fares on Agoda. But I also love the no prepayment and no cancellation fee policy of Booking.com . For cheap accommodations and hostels, nothing beats Hostelworld .

Car Rentals: You may find and rent an appropriate car via RentalCars . It’s hassle-free and reliable.

Guided Tours: I absolutely love GetYourGuide for local sightseeing tours, walking tours, history tours, and food tours. The booking process is seamless, and the tours are super affordable. But in Asian countries, I prefer Viator or Klook for their affordably priced tours.

Lounge Access : Get Priority Pass – my personal favorite card that gives me unlimited access to premium airport lounges all over the world

Hey, if you found this post helpful, share it with more people or buy me a coffee !

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

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Best Goa Tour Packages in 2024

Are you ready to head out with your sunglasses and flip flops in style, put that sunscreen to good use and frolic on the beach? Goa is a paradise for beach lovers in India. Loved by Indians and foreign tourists alike, this place is famous for its wide sandy beaches. Apart from the beaches, Goa also offers a multitude of fun things to do to keep you busy day and night. The hustle and bustle that you will find in Goa at night will exceed your expectations.

If Goa nightlife is not what interests you, then visit Goa for its array of water sports. The famous beaches in Goa like Baga and Calangute offer water sports for both amateurs as well as professionals. Tourists can enjoy a wide variety of fun activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, water scooter rides among others.  Your Goa trip plan can have a package that offers a variety of all these activities. Why settle for less when you can get exciting Goa offers on MakeMyTrip!

Check out the MakeMyTrip website or app for a variety of offers on Goa tour packages, including specially curated Goa packages for couples, as well as family holiday packages for Goa. Book your Goa honeymoon package with stays near the famous beaches in Goa. Many MakeMyTrip Goa packages also include special add-ons like complimentary transfers and Goa sightseeing, to make your Goa holiday even more convenient. So go ahead and plan a Goa getaway by picking your most suitable Goa tour package.

Best time to visit Goa

Goa features a warm and humid climate all year round, typical of the tropical regions. The hottest month of the year in Goa stands out to be May, with peak temperatures soaring above 35°C, along with high humidity. The best time to visit Goa is from November to February. The Goa weather during this period stays predictably cool and the beaches are thronged with tourists coming here to enjoy the extensive Christmas and New Year celebrations. If you are looking for some quiet time with your family or your partner, then opt for the months of March and April which are neither super peak season for Goa tourism, nor impacted by the warming of Goa weather as much as later months. MakeMyTrip offers some exclusive Goa tourism packages for families and honeymooners. Otherwise, you can choose to enjoy the romantic Goa weather during the monsoon rains and visit from mid-June to October. In fact, if you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a wonderful romantic stay in a Goa resort, then the monsoon is the best time to visit Goa.

So, pack your bags and find the best Goa tour packages suitable to your vacation time and budget on MakeMyTrip.

How to reach Goa

Depending on where you have booked your Goa package from, you can travel to Goa by air, rail or road. Goa international airport connects Goa to cities across India as well as various international destinations like Doha, Dubai etc.  One can also take a train to Goa from Mumbai and other major cities in India. The Konkan Railway also covers stations in Goa. Apart from rail, Goa is also accessible by bus from many cities. One can travel by bus to Goa from Mumbai , Bangalore , Mangalore, Hyderabad , Pune etc.

If you are planning a Goa trip, be on the lookout as MakeMyTrip introduces seasonal discounts on Goa packages from time to time.

Best beaches in Goa

The first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of Goa is – beach! No wonder, because Goa beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Here is our list of the top, must-visit, most famous beaches in Goa. Do add a visit to some of these in your Goa package! If you are booking a Goa honeymoon package, consider booking at least a part of your stay in a beachfront hotel!

Other places to visit in Goa 

Goa tourism is a lot more than just the shining sun, or a sandy beach stretching along a beautiful shoreline. The place has a lot to offer to make your Goa honeymoon trip or your family Goa holiday memorable. Here are some significant Goa tourist places that should be included in a Goa city tour or excursion.

• Grand Island

Grand Island is one of the most popular islands in South Goa. The island offers a variety of adventurous water sports and can be reached by a boat ride. From diving to snorkelling to fishing, this island has a water activity for everyone. Take a boat tour of the mesmerizing Grand Island to witness cheerful dolphins in the middle of the Arabian Sea. One can get a glimpse of other attractions like Aguada Fort, Goa Jail, and Millionaire’s Palace from the boat. Explore the exotic underwater life with snorkelling or scuba diving. Along with some reefs, one can also find shipwrecks. The tour to Grand Island can be booked along with Goa packages. It is a very popular inclusion in MakeMyTrip’s Goa honeymoon packages.

• Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Located in South Goa, the Dudhsagar Falls are a magnificent marvel of nature. Serene and spectacular, it is one of Goa's most breathtaking sights. Dropping down from a height of 1,017 feet amidst dense jungle over four tiers, it is counted amongst the highest waterfalls in India. Approximately 60 kilometers away from Panjim, on the NH4A, it is located on the border between Goa and Karnataka. The pure white gush of water cascades down into an emerald lake at the bottom and offers amazing photo opportunities. The literal meaning of the term ‘Dudhsagar’ is ‘Sea of Milk’, which is mainly because of the illusion of the white spray the waterfall creates when it cascades down into the pool. The waterfall is also known for its immense bird and animal population. Tourists can see the Dudhsagar Waterfall from a distance. Else, one can trek to get a closer look at the falls. This is one of the best places to visit in Goa especially for couples and groups of friends.

• Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada is a fine example of Portuguese architecture built in the early 16 th century. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, it offers a stunning view of the beautiful sea and its surroundings. Constructed in the year 1612 to protect Goa from enemy attacks, the majestic Aguada Fort is perched over the Sinquerim beach. One can see a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea from the fort. Ringed with a thick battlement, the fort features a 13-meter high lighthouse built in 1864 and a vaulted cistern. The fort and its lighthouse is an ideal place to click beautiful pictures. Another star attraction is the Church of St. Lawrence, patron saint of the sailors. The church was built at the outskirts of the fort to prevent it from being fired upon at close range. This is one of the oldest Goa tourist places in North Goa.

• Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort is located in North Goa and is a perfect place for a leisure stroll. Perched upon a hill, the fort overlooks the Chapora River and offers a splendid view of the surroundings. Located on the top of a hillock with slopes on all sides in North Goa, Chapora Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1617. Presently in ruins, the fort offers a beautiful view of the adjoining Vagator and Anjuna beach. While taking a tour, do not forget to see the heads of the escape tunnels built by the Portuguese.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a popular church in North Goa and one of the main Goa tourist places included in an Old Goa city tour, features Baroque style architecture with beautiful mosaic Corinthian style interiors. Counted amongst the famous churches of Goa, especially in the Roman Catholic world, the Basilica of Bom Jesus features a tomb and mortal remains of St Francis Xavier. Located in Old Goa, the church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The un-plastered exterior of the church might be deceiving, but the charming interior is beautiful. The main altar of the church holds a large statue of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), and one of Francis Xavier's companions. There's also a modern art gallery with paintings depicting various Biblical scenes.

• Anjuna Flea Market

One of the most popular and coolest markets of North Goa is the Anjuna Flea Market. It’s a perfect place to shop, eat and enjoy live local bands. Bringing elements from around the world in one place, the Anjuna Flea market is one of the most famous tourist attractions of Goa. Offering an unforgettable experience, the market offers dreadlock makers, nose and body piercers, and professional hairdressers, who would cut and paint your hair in any style possible. Visitors can also get unique patterns painted on their body. Tourists could also enjoy delicious Indian, Israeli and Western cuisines or shop for Tibetan goods, junk jewelry, handicrafts, crystals, semi-precious stones, fancy knives, and many other remnants. The market is located a short walk away from Anjuna Beach and one of the best places to visit in Goa especially for couples and groups of friends.

• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Goa. Spread across an area of 8 km and perched at a height of 3000 feet on the lush foothills of Western Ghats, Bondla Wildlife sanctuary nurtures the amazing flora and fauna of Goa. It is a natural home to a wide variety of animals like Leopards, Jackals, Gaur, Deer, Porcupines, and Sloth Bear, along with species of birds like Brown Fish Owl, Indian Scimitar Babbler, Ruby-throated Yellow Bulbul, and Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher. Speckled with bamboo plantations, rosewood trees, medicinal herbs, and beautiful orchids, the sanctuary is also home to a mini zoo, a botanical garden, a rose garden, and a fenced deer park inside the area. The wildlife sanctuary remains closed on Mondays.

• Mapusa Friday Market

One of the best things to do in Goa is to visit the vibrant Mapusa Friday Market. It’s a traditional Goan market buzzing with local traders and sellers who sell a variety of local items. Mapusa Friday market is one of the popular traditional Goan markets for ardent shoppers. The market takes place every Friday and is bustling with local vendors and traders from all over the Goa. At this vibrant market, one can buy items such as antiques, Goan pottery, handicrafts, textiles, clothing, spices, fresh fruits and vegetables and much more. There is a spice street, a bakery section, a fish street and many other sections from where tourists can buy items at a reasonable price.

Dona Paula beach in North Goa is just 7km from Panjim. It is a popular beach offering good views of the Marmugao harbor. It offers various watersport and sightseeing activities for tourists. According to a myth, at night, the beach is visited by Dona Paula, who emerges from the sea wearing only a necklace of pearls in search of her love. People also believe that Dona Paula committed suicide on this beach. Her tomb, Cabo Raj Niwas, can also be found here. One can enjoy a lovely view of the Arabian Sea from the beach. Other sightseeing options nearby include Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, National Oceanography Institute and Reis Magos Church. Tourists can also engage in water activities like windsurfing, parasailing, snorkelling etc. Beachside restaurants are also available on the beach that serve delectable sea-food and other varieties.

• Arvalem Waterfall

Arvalem Waterfall is one of the spectacular sightseeing spots in Goa. The water gushes down from a height of 50 metres into the lake at the bottom. The scenic surroundings are ideal to enjoy picnics with family and friends. The majestic sight of the Arvalem waterfall will leave one with awe and wonder. The falls are surrounded with hilly slopes covered in lush greenery. There is a well-maintained park near the waterfall which is an ideal picnic spot to enjoy the waterfalls. A little away from the waterfalls, there is an old arched bridge which also offers a great view of the waterfalls. Other nearby attractions include the historical Rudraksha Temple and the carved Arvalem rock caves.

What to eat in Goa

Goan food is an art form in its own right. Be it seafood in ‘Portuguese-style’ variants or modified versions of popular snack foods, it is a table of delights worth exploring. Here are some suggestions of popular Goan dishes you could try on your Goa trip.

The Xacuti curry:   This popular Goan dish is a rich, spicy coconut curry is spiced primarily with red chillies, nutmeg and star anise. It is usually made with chicken but can be made with pork or crab too. Have it with Goan red rice, or even with the Goan bread known as Poi or Pao.

Goan desserts:  Here is a series of Goan sweets that are all coconut-based but are different in their preparation, ingredients and taste. The ‘boll’ (large, hard, sweet, cookie-like), ‘dodol’ (soft, pudding-like, flour-jaggery based dessert), ‘dosh’ (melt-in-mouth dessert like ‘barfi’), and ‘bebinca’ (layered cake) are some of the recommended ones. The ‘bebinca’ is a Goan bakery delight baked in a traditional stone oven. This is as authentic as Goan food can get!

  Fried fish:  Yes, it’s special and delicious at the same time. The ‘Rava fried fish’ is a seafood delight in which the fish is cut open, cleaned and stuffed with a paste of garlic, ginger and red chillies. The result is a mouth-watering, crunchy delight that will leave you with sublime memories of the Goan food you enjoyed on your Goa holiday. 

Goan street food:  Goa boasts of a variety of bakery and fried food items bustling on road-side stalls, all of them beyond exceptionally good in taste. Goa’s unique and age-old bakeries and roadside eateries have different versions of beef croquettes, egg chops, fish chops, vada pav, cutlet bread, prawn rissoi etc.  

Caldinho curry:  This sweetish, mellow curry is another coconut based Goan curry and can be made with chicken, prawns or vegetables. It is perfect for those wishing to try Goan food but not comfortable with high spice levels. Have it with rice or even bread. 

10 things to do in Goa apart from visiting Goa beaches

Goa is indeed a beautiful place, full of surprises and exciting exploration. Most people plan their Goa sightseeing around the beaches of North Goa and South Goa, however, there are a ton of things to do in Goa apart from visiting Goa beaches .

Here are just 10 of our suggestions for some additional cool things to do in Goa:

Hot Air Ballooning

Goa is not only home to adventurous water activities but also air-borne activities. Hot-air ballooning is one of the best things to do in Goa if you want to enjoy the beauty of sun, sand, greenery from a vantage point. A hot-air balloon floats high up in the air and offers a stunning view of the calm blue waters, shimmering beaches, lush green scenery and a breathtaking panoramic view of Goa. Enjoy a fun ride with your family and friends as you fly over the enchanting landscape of Goa. This unique Goa sightseeing tour is a highly recommended add-on especially for a Goa honeymoon package.

Sailing/Yacht ride

Taking a yacht ride is one of the best ways to enjoy the surreal beauty of the Arabian Sea in Goa. Set sail across the deep blue waters and have an enthralling experience with your family and friends. Enjoy great views of the vast blue sea and the picturesque coastline of Goa in the distance. If you take the cruise at the right time, you could even have an opportunity to witness a mesmerizing sunset from the boat. A relaxed ride along with the cool sea-breeze will refresh your senses and will leave you with an unforgettable memory of your Goa trip.

Dolphin Spotting

Dolphin spotting is one of the major activity that is enjoyed by tourists booking Goa tour packages. The sight of dolphins dipping and swimming elegantly in their natural habitat is a wonderful sight to behold. One can take a boat ride and witness dolphins swimming alongside the boat. Experience a close encounter with these lovely creatures as they dance and twirl in the sea. Palolem Beach, Sinquerim Beach, Morjim Beach, Coco Beach and Cavelossim Beach are some of the best beaches in Goa that offer this enticing experience. It is possible to customize MakeMyTrip Goa packages to include this activity.

Go on a crocodile tour

A crocodile tour is a unique experience in Goa that will leave you breathless. A backwater boat cruise will take you through the marshy area of Goa surrounded by dense mangroves. The tour will give you an opportunity to watch wild crocodiles in their natural habitat. One can see marsh muggars, a unique species of crocodiles, relaxing by the banks of the river. This tour will also give you a chance to spot a variety of beautiful birds. For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, this is an ideal experience to add to your Goa trip. This is also one of the best things to do in Goa if you are travelling with kids.

Clubbing 

Apart from its pristine beaches and water adventures, Goa is also known for its thriving nightlife. Goa has an assortment of some of the best clubs in India. If you are a party animal and love grooving to your favourite beats while enjoying exotic drinks, then Goa is the place to be. Some of the hottest Goa places to party in are Love Passion Karma in Nerul and Club Cubana in Arpora. Enjoy a night full of trance music, neon lights, delectable food, amazing drinks and dance to your favourite international tracks until the sun comes up.

Spend an afternoon at a Beach Shack

Spend a laid-back afternoon at one of the many Beach Shacks in Goa. Goa’s beaches are lined with numerous shacks that are typical Goa tourist places offering wooden benches, beach loungers, and hammocks for a perfect relaxed afternoon. A beach shack is an ideal place to soak up the sun and read your favourite book, or just watch the waves. One can also indulge in authentic sea-food that is also served at these shacks.  Curlies Beach Shack at Anjuna beach is one of the most popular beach shacks in Goa. Bubble’s Beach Shack in Vagator, Brittos in Baga, and Pina Colada Beach Shack in Colva, are other popular Goa places where you can retreat to spend some quality time with your friends and family . 

Visit a spice plantation

Add spice to your Goa sightseeing by visiting a spice plantation in Goa. Goa is home to many spice villages and farms, which can give you a glimpse into the manufacturing of spices. Enjoy exploring an aromatic spice plantation which will refresh your senses. Learn the process of growing a variety of spices as you walk through the plantation site. You can also buy and take home some of the freshly manufactured spices and seasonings. A spice plantation tour is a popular inclusion in Goa packages for families as well as couples.

Try a Goan meal

A trip to Goa is incomplete without indulging in an authentic Goan meal. With rich influences of Portuguese, Indian and Catholic flavours, Goan cuisine is popular among tourists as well as locals. One can try a variety of Goan dishes cooked with aromatic Goan spices which impart it a unique flavour. Relish the mouth-watering dishes like Goan fish curry, Chicken Xacuti, Prawn Vindaloo, and Bebinca, the traditional dessert of Goa. Pousada by the Beach, Martin’s Corner, Soi, Souza Lobo and Mum’s Kitchen are some of the best Goa restaurants which serve delectable and authentic Goan cuisine.

Hire a Scooty

One of the best ways to explore Goa is to hire a scooty and ride through the charming Goa city and village streets. Enjoy the beautiful sights of the picturesque beaches, vibrant shops and historical landmarks. Explore Goa city at your own pace and convenience without having to follow any guide or timings. Crash beach parties, stop by a beach for a leisure walk, discover local markets, relax at a shack and relish amazing sea-food, and marvel at Old Goan churches. This experience will give you an opportunity to discover Goa places in your own way. A scooty hire is a must-do if you are considering a Goa trip with your friends, or a Goa honeymoon package.

Go shopping in Panjim

From street markets to trendy malls, Panjim in North Goa is a paradise for shopping lovers. Wander through the Municipal Market which sells a wide variety of local handicrafts, authentic Goan spices, handmade jewellery, unique souvenirs etc. at a reasonable price. For branded items, one can visit various malls and high-end stores in Panjim. For instance, at Caculo Mall you can buy designer clothes from your favourite international brands. Barefoot is another store, where you can buy stylish Bohemian home décor items. For art lovers, Marcou Artifacts has Goan and Portuguese ceramics which you can take home as a memory of your Goa trip.

We hope this guide to Goa beaches as well as all the places to visit in Goa and the fun things to do in Goa will help you freeze your plan for your own Goa holiday. So go ahead and start shortlisting your preferred Goa packages, and let your Goa trip plan become a reality!

Goa is the one ultimate vacation spot in India that always arouses excitement and never gets old. Plan your Goa holidays and explore this sea-side small state in western India which is known across the globe for its serene beaches, bustling nightlife and delicious seafood. You can book your Goa tour package with MakeMyTrip and explore the colonial-style architecture of Goa in its ancient forts, old bungalows and white-washed churches. Book your Goa holidays now to enjoy long walks on the serene coastlines, with golden sand beaches and mouthwatering seafood snacks at the beach shacks. Goa travel packages with MakeMyTrip offer exciting adventurous watersports activities like jet-skiing, parasailing, banana rides and more. To spend some quiet time, head to the peaceful and calm Mobor beach or Vagator beach . Goa travel package also includes visiting some of the fine forts like Fort Aguada and Chapora Fort, where you can catch spectacular views of the sea and its surroundings. MakeMyTrip customizes tour packages for Goa with prices that are unbeatable. Savour the enticing Goan delicacies, enriched with aromatic spices and coconut-based curries. Take home beautiful and unique gifts for your friends and family from this shopping paradise. So go ahead and start shortlisting the tour packages for Goa available with price on the MakeMyTrip website and let your Goa trip plan become a reality!

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Choosing the right accommodation is important while booking Goa packages. You can take your pick from several 3-star, 4-star and 5-star hotels in Goa that offer a plethora of amenities and conveniences for travellers. There are options to suit every budget. You may find entry-level or budget-friendly hotels in Goa  that can be included in your tour packages. Alternatively, there are more luxurious hotels if you desire premium accommodation and facilities during your stay in Goa. 

Planning a Goa  trip is easy with the MakeMyTrip mobile app or website. You can book a Goa  holiday package online after selecting the best time to visit and researching about the available hotels. You can also check out the activities, attractions, markets and landmarks in Goa  beforehand. Thereafter, you can book flights to Goa  well in advance before completing the bookings for your hotels, activities, transfers and so on. This will ultimately give you better deals and discounts on your holiday. 

While planning a Goa trip, here are some important points that you should keep in mind:

• Know about the right season or best time to visit. 
• Do not carry too much cash. 
• Keep all important documents safe while travelling.
• Respect the local religion and culture.
• Watch what you eat. 
• Choose suitable hotels and neighbourhoods to stay. 
• Research on the shopping options and markets. Do not miss out on essentials while packing. 
• Be alert while taking photographs. 
• Always ask for permission before clicking pictures. 

A: You can cover a lot of Goa in 4 days. Here is a suggested plan for your Goa trip in 4 days, giving a good mix of leisure and Goa sightseeing:

• Day 1: Arrive in Goa. Explore the area around your hotel. Evening, visit Tito’s Lane to party.
• Day 2: Visit Baga Beach and Calangute beach. Relax at a beach shack. Sunset at Anjuna, and night at Britto’s or nearby.
• Day 3: Take a Grand Island tour to enjoy water sports and dolphin spotting. Evening party at any of the Clubs in Goa.
• Day 4: Morning beach visit or shopping, and leave for the airport!

A: Here are some of the things you can do in Goa on a 3 day visit:

• • Visit North Goa beaches like Baga beach, Calangute beach and Anjuna beach
• • Sightseeing of Old Goa churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, the Se Cathedral, the St. Francis Church, and Fontainhas
• • Spend some time in a Goa beach shack
• • Take a tour to Grand Island for water sports
• • Party at any of the spots in Tito’s Lane
• • Visit South Goa beaches like Colva beach, Palolem beach and Mobor beach

A: While you can visit Goa for anywhere from 2 to 7 days, the ideal Goa trip is 4 to 5 days including your travel time from your home city. This gives you sufficient time to relax as well as explore the main places to visit in Goa.

• • Use one day to explore North Goa beaches like Calangute beach, Baga beach and Anjuna beach, where you can also experience a variety of water sports like jet-ski rides, banana boat rides, parasailing etc.
• • One day can be kept for cultural exploration – see the Old Goa heritage through the beautiful churches like Se Cathedral, Basilica of Bom Jesus, the Fontainhas area, and Panjim town where you can also shop for cashews and other souvenirs. Or, you could use the day to visit a spice plantation for something different.
• • If you enjoy water sports, you might want to spend one day on a tour to Grand Island where you are taken by boat and can try snorkelling etc.
• • If you want to see more beaches, spend a day visiting the beaches of South Goa, such as Palolem beach, Colva beach, Mobor beach etc.
• • One day in Goa could be kept free for relaxing, swimming, and generally having a good time with your friends and family.

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Goa Friends Packages

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Friends Holiday in Goa : rated 4.3 /5 (based on 2188 reviews) | Packages starting from ₹7,000/-

Goa fits the bill for all generations, spoiling them with unparalleled scenic beauty with a plethora of varied experiences, especially when planning a Goa trip with friends . Vast stretches of thick green cover, a perfect mix of peaceful unexplored beaches that acts as energetic party hubs, a land with beautiful churches and historical landmarks, not to forget the amazing nightlife and an unforgettable splash of delectable flavors of the best sea-food in India, Goa has it all. It has undeniably been tagged as the best destination for a trip with friends, and that is why you can see numerous Goa holiday packages for friends to pick from.

Best Time to Visit

Weather plays a pivotal role in defining whether your trip with friends is just good or surpasses all levels of being the best trip of your life. The temperature doesn’t witness such a drastic change, however, the season does define the humidity levels which if high are not considered ideal for the destination. The best time to visit Goa with friends is considered to be from November, which marks the onset of the winter season in Goa until the onset of summers in May.

Summer (March, April, May & October)

In the order of preference, this season lies at the bottom while planning a trip to Goa with friends. The high temperature accompanied by extremely humid weather conditions makes this season a little unfavourable for planning a trip to Goa. The temperature touches a maximum of 40 degrees and robs the weather of Goa’s famous cool breeze. However, this season attracts travelers wanting to explore this beautiful beach destination due to heavy discounts and low footfall as opposed to a Goa completely packed with tourists.

Monsoon (June, July, August, September)

If you are a fan of monsoon then this is the season for you to plan your trip to Goa. Most of Goa tour packages for friends include parties that are commonly hosted to celebrate the beautiful monsoon season in Goa. Moreover, a typical Goa holiday package for friends costs a lot lesser than that in the peak season of winter.

Winter (November, December, January, February)

November- February is the peak season in Goa. The entire city is painted in a vibrant and joyous vibe and this is the best time to book a Goa trip package for friends . With comfortable temperatures ranging from 18-25 degrees, accompanied by a cool breeze, numerous festivals, and great celebrations, this is the best season to dive into the liveliness of Goa. A tip here would be to make your reservations well in advance because of the in-flow of foreign as well as domestic tourists.

How to Reach?

Being a popular destination, Goa is well connected to all parts of India through various modes of transport.

Air is the quickest mode of transport for those flying from cities like Delhi, Kolkata and other metro cities. Goa has an international airport located in Dabolim, which is at a 29 kilometre distance from Panaji. Also, the airport has good connectivity with both domestic and international flights.

There are two major railways stations in Goa, Madgaon, and Vasco-da-Gama. They have good connectivity with trains from Mumbai and other major cities in India. It is considered to be a comfortable mode of transport for those who have a longer trip planned and have enough days to spend on travel.

Road trips in Goa are common for trips being planned with friends. Whether you are planning to drive to Goa or come here by bus, the connected roads are in very good condition and will add to the charm of your trip to Goa with friends.

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Duration ( in Days )

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Showing 112 Goa Friends Packages

Best Selling Weeklong Goa Tour Packages For A Fun-Filled Vacay

₹ 16,199/- ₹ 17,608/-.

Per Person on twin sharing

• Spice plantations
• Historical Sites

Hotel included in package:

Upto 3 Stars

• Sightseeing

A Goa Tour Full of Fun n Frolic

₹ 11,500/- ₹ 12,637/-.

• Leisure Day

Everybody plans for a Goa trip, when they want to get away from it all. An ideal

Goa Tour Package By Volvo Bus From Surat

₹ 10,500/- ₹ 11,290/-.

Goa is an exotic haven that is known for its many beaches, seafood, architecture, drink....

Hotels recommended by our Travel Experts

Expert Rating

7 Sea's By Splenor Anjuna

Goa Tour Package In Summer

₹ 20,999/- ₹ 22,580/-.

Enjoy the enthusiastic, adventurous summer special 4 days tour to Goa.....

Goa Is All About Sand, Sun, And Sea

₹ 7,000/- ₹ 7,692/-.

• Fort Aguada
• Calangute Beach
• Anjuna Beach
• Scuba Diving

Best-Selling Goa Trip Package For Friends

₹ 9,999/- ₹ 10,869/-.

• Paragliding

Gorgeous Goa Tour Packages From Kerala

₹ 10,000/- ₹ 10,989/-.

Cherish a sojourn along the palm-fringed beaches, savor culinary delights, and enjoy th....

Goa Package For 2 Nights 3 Days

• Dudhsagar Waterfalls
• Jeep Safari
• Spice Plantations

Goa 5 Star Holiday Package From Delhi

₹ 24,999/- ₹ 26,595/-.

Are you yearning for an excursion to Goa, where you can immerse yourself in the oasis o....

Upto 5 Stars

Exciting Goa Tour Packages For A Perfect Getaway

₹ 15,500/- ₹ 16,692/-.

• Beach Weekend
• Super Saver

Upto 4 Stars

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Fun-Packed Goa Weekend Holiday: South Goa & Beaches

₹ 14,999/- ₹ 17,255/-.

• Beach hopping
• Weekend Special
• Historic sightseeing

Embark on a perfect beach vacation with our customizable 2 nights and 3 days Go....

Goa Tour Package For 3 nights and 4 days

₹ 17,500/- ₹ 19,956/-.

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Marvellous Goa Tour Packages For A Sun-Kissed Vacation

₹ 25,875/- ₹ 34,500/-.

• Flea Markets
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₹ 16,099/- ₹ 19,543/-.

• Monsoon Special
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Splendid Goa Island Tour With Dudhsagar Falls

₹ 28,750/- ₹ 35,359/-.

• Beach Vacation
• Island Tours
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Splendid Goa Tour Package For 3 Nights 4 Days

₹ 9,000/- ₹ 9,890/-.

• Aguada Fort

Have you been longing for blissful holidays with your friends or family? Then book our ....

Goa Tour Package For 2 Persons

₹ 8,999/- ₹ 9,782/-.

Situated on the western coast of India and overlooking the Arabian Sea, Goa welcomes ev....

Fascinating Goa Honeymoon

₹ 14,500/- ₹ 15,934/-.

• Best sellers

Beholding its famed past with contemporary delights, Goa is the favourite destination o....

Exotic Goa Tour

₹ 19,199/- ₹ 21,098/-.

• Adventure Activities
• Local sightseeing
• Religious Tour

This summer plan a thrilling vacation amidst the sand and water with our 4 nights/5 day....

A Blissful Goa Honeymoon Package

₹ 13,799/- ₹ 15,164/-.

• Picturesque sights
• Beach paradise

The honeymoon is a special holiday in the life of every couple in which they can come t....

Amazing Goa Family Tour: Forts & Adventure

₹ 16,500/- ₹ 19,756/-.

• Leisure Time

Have a great time together with this customizable 3 nights and 4 days Goa famil....

Upto 2 Stars

Fascinating Goa Tour Package

₹ 16,000/- ₹ 17,582/-.

• Watersports

Plan a memorable Goa Holiday Package to have an offbeat holiday in the....

Exhilarating Goa Tour

₹ 13,999/- ₹ 15,384/-.

• Panjim Market

Known for its Portuguese culture, Goa-is one of the most sought after holiday destinati....

Best Goa 5 Days Trip For A Rememberable Trip

₹ 13,999/- ₹ 14,893/-, hotels in goa by star ratings, property types in goa, faqs for goa, when is the best time to visit goa.

The months between November and March are the most ideal time to visit Goa because of the pleasant weather that allows one to explore the depths of the place whilst also enjoy the numerous water sports. 

How many days are enough for a trip to Goa?

Approximately 4 days are enough to completely explore the place to one’s heart’s content.

What are some of the famous beaches in South Goa?

Some of the most famous beaches in South Goa are: 

•  Palolem Beach 
• Agonda Beach 
• Colva Beach 
• Butterfly Beach 
• Galgibaga Beach

What are the most famous waterfalls in Goa?

Some of the best waterfalls in Goa are: 

•  Duddhsagar Waterfalls
• Harvalem Waterfalls
• Netravali Falls 
• Kuskem Waterfalls

What are some of the places one can visit in North Goa?

Some of the things that can be enjoyed in North Goa are: 

• Baga Beach 
• Goa State Museum 
• Chapora Fort
• Mangueshi Temple

What can one shop for in Goa?

One can shop for many things in Goa such as : 

• Cashew nuts
• Handicrafts
• Wooden furniture
• Painted tiles

What are the best churches to visit in Goa?

Some of the best churches in Goa are: 

• Basilica Of Bom Jesus 
• Se Cathedral 
• Church Of St. Francis Of Assisi 
• Church Of St. Cajetan 
• Mae De Deus Church

What all water sports can one experience in Goa?

Some of the best water sports to experience in Goa include:

• Parasailing
• Flyboarding
• Snorkeling.

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• Places To Visit In Goa

Let the experts guide you to the best of this mesmerizing destination

Cola Beach In Goa

Cola beach is nestled in South Goa and known for a quiet and serene environment. The place is a remote destination and is still unexplored by the majority of people. Visit the stunning beach which is kept hidden by hilly terrain, palms, and vegetation. The beach is fringed by coconut trees which make the shore even more bea...

• Water activities

Reis Magos Fort in Goa

Listed under the Goa Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, the Reis Magos Fort in Goa is the oldest fort in the state. That’s right, it is even older than Fort Aguada. The fort is located on the banks of Mandovi River, in the Reis Magos village of Bardez. Reis Magos can roughly be translated from Portu...

• Historical sites

Coco Beach in Goa

Goa, the party capital of India has garnered tourist attractions from all over the world. Known for churches and beaches like Coco Beach and various Portuguese landmarks, it boasts a lot of picturesque places. Its beauty is so incredibly mesmerizing that it looks more like an artist's painting than an actual place to visit.

• Banana Boat Ride
• Ideal for friends
• Ideal for families

Arambol Beach in Goa

Arambol is a fisherman village located roughly an hour’s drive from the Dabolim Airport (GOI). It is situated within the Pernem region in northern Goa. Arambol Beach in Goa is about 50 kilometers from Panaji or Panjim.

Arambol, also known locally as Harmal, is the northernmost of Goa’s beach resorts. The beach is still con...

Mandrem Beach in Goa

Mandrem is a seaside village and a famous tourist spot in Pernem taluka of North Goa. The village is 30 kilometres from the state capital Panaji. The beach is located about 1 km west of Mandrem village. The white-sand Mandrem Beach in Goa actually comprises two beaches Junas Beach and Ashvem Beach. The beautiful Mandrem Bea...

• Things To Do In Goa

Your list of the best things to do, compiled on the basis of actual traveler experiences

Casino Cruise in Goa

Goa is renowned for lively nightlife and up-till-dawn parties. It is also one of the few places in India where gambling is legal and regulated. Living it up on a casino cruise in Goa is a great experience to have. Some of the top casinos in Goa are located along the shore in luxury hotels, on anchored boats in Mandovi River...

• Unlimited Fun

Dolphin Cruise in Goa

The state of Goa lies on the west coast, or also known as the Konkan Coast, of India and thus, providing ample aquatic opportunities for travellers in Goa. One of these thrilling opportunities includes the Dolphin cruise located in Goa . Anyone interested can board a cruise or a boat to witness beautiful dolphins going about...

Paragliding in Goa

Soar across the sky and witness the aerial views of Goa’s beaches and stunning landscapes while paragliding in Goa . This activity requires you to launch the wings by jogging down a slope and then controlling the speed and direction of the wings. You can either maneuver the wings on your own or you can fly with a trained gui...

Parasailing in Goa

Watersports in Goa are considered some of the best things to do in Goa on a family holiday or a romantic honeymoon. Fulfill your dreams of flying across the sky while viewing the Goan coastlines and scenic attractions on a parasailing adventure in this beach haven. to enjoy parasailing in Goa , you will be seated in a parach...

Water Skiing in Goa

Feel the thrill of the beach waters splash across your face as you surf along the waves while water skiing in Goa . If you love speed and are down for some fun and excitement, then indulge in this adventure activity while visiting Goa. Water skiing will involve proper balancing as you have to firmly grip the rope that is att...

Tips For Travelers

• If you are traveling to Goa during the peak season of winter, make your reservations in advance or you will not be able to get the activities/hotels of your preference
• If you are a foodie, do ditch the quintessential list of popular places to eat and stop by small cafes that you come across. You will get the best food in those small authentic cafes
• While street shopping near the beaches, do try your hands at bargaining. You will be able to save a lot
• If you are planning a Goa trip in Monsoon, then do carry an umbrella with you at all times even if the weather forecast tells you otherwise
• Renting a car in Goa is easy. If going friends that is the ideal option, try including it in your Goa packages for friends.

No matter how many times you visit Goa, a trip with friends at this lively destination will always give you a myriad of cherishable memories. Goa will never fail to surprise you with its beauty, colors, culture, and charm. Planning a trip with friends? Don’t resist book your ideal Goa package for friends now and embark on a beautiful and memorable journey.

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