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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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GOA TRAVEL GUIDE | Best of Goa Without the Crowds

Our Goa travel guide covers the best of Goa – aka Goa with fewer crowds! Once a hippy-paradise with swaying palms and the occasional coco-hut, Goa is one of India’s highlights. Over recent years, though it has become a victim of its own success, and we’d heard many reports saying that Goa had been ruined by over tourism and over construction. Was it true? We went to find out. 

A Guide to Off Beat Goa Travel

Mention the word “Goa” and scenes of lazily swaying palms, golden sands, dread-locked-beer-swilling-hippies, dance parties and yoga retreats probably come to mind. This beachside jewel of India was established as a firm favourite on the Hippy Trail of the ’70s, and the rest as they say… is history.

Beach shacks and cocohuts have been (mostly) “upgraded” to makeshift plywood and in some places concrete: built supposedly to attract high-rollers; only the high-rollers didn’t really make it. Instead, mass, package-tourism has floated into Goa over recent decades, leaving a high tide of trash behind.

Much of the coastline has fallen to mass tourism: At first from Europe, then from Russia, and now from with India,  too. In a way, it’s Goa’s own fault: once known as the land of hedonism, people flocked to get a taste for themselves.

Along with the mass construction came minimal planning: Waste was thrown out of sight and out of mind without proper disposal, sewage ebbed out directly into the sea..

Tourism in Goa has created as many problems as it has opportunities: But is there still a way to travel in Goa without the mass tourism?

As a destination that is often the first taste of India for holiday-makers and travellers, I had been hesitant to come here on my travels to India, but ultimately we wanted to find out: Is it possible to still enjoy Goa? (Keep reading for the answer 😉 )

ⓘ TIP: Planning a trip to India? Join our free India Travel Facebook group here !

Goa Travel: A Different Story

Among the stories of woe from mass tourism growth, we heard of pockets of Goa that had a better story to tell. Of eco friendly resorts in Goa that were trying to reverse the trend and offer a more sustainable alternative to the mass tourism in Goa. We wanted to find out if these stories were true.

We had other reasons for visiting, too. Ravi’s family come from south Goa, near Canacona, and so it holds a special place in his heart. We wanted to visit to see for our selves: if there was another side of coastal Goa to be discovered that had yet to be “ruined”. We wanted to see what options remain in Goa for the discerning traveller who cares about their impact.

This guide is a result of that first and subsequent visits to Goa. It’s not for those looking for tips on where to party or in search of mass-tourism attractions; instead here you’ll find our recommendations on eco resorts in Goa, ethical tour companies in Goa, options for ecotourism in Goa and some of the state’s best nature. We’ve also included a section on yoga in Goa too! We’d love to hear about your experiences travelling to Goa – get in touch with us via the comments down below.

Is it too late to visit Goa ? Not necessarily. But as with many places in the world, the best parts are often the harder ones to get to, and for good reason.

Goa is truly a stunning part of India, but you have to choose carefully: And that’s where we come in with this guide.

Ecotourism in Goa & Responsible Travel

Although Goa is best known as a beach destination, there’s plenty more to the beauty of Goa than cocohuts and cocktails.

Goa’s interiors are rich in biodiversity and wildlife (where they haven’t been threatened by development as much as on the coast, but increasingly development *is* posing a threat). Goa is home to six national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, stretching from north to south. We don’t recommend all of these, as some of the wildlife sanctuaries seem to be little more than zoos, with animals kept on chains. Beautiful Netravali Wildlife Reserve, however we can vouch for (see our things to do in South Goa section below).

The interiors and ghats offer some beautiful nature retreats in Goa, or you can stay closer to the beaches and explore the backwaters of Goa (yes Goa does have backwaters) and – largely ignored by visitors but critically important – mangroves.

Fishermen offering dolphin watching trips can be found on most beaches in Goa, but unfortunately dolphin watching trips have led to challenges of their own. In many cases dolphins find themselves being aggressively pursued for the sake of satisfied customers rather than being watched from a respectful distance.

It is possible to enjoy this side of beautiful Goa responsibly though; here we list some of the best operators that you can support.

Given the large number of people that flock to Goa, it’s especially important to be mindful of our impact in Goa. Here are some important ways we can help limit our impact on Goa:

• Goa is overloaded with tourists just coming to hang on the beach. There’s nothing wrong with hanging on the beach but when you come to Goa, do your bit to learn about the rich Goan culture, too. Try a spice plantation tour, kayaking in Goa’s backwaters, or a chance to sample the local feni (suggestions below).
• Consider lesser-known destinations in Goa or exploring inland
• Goa is lacking in recycling infrastructure and the volume of single use plastic is a huge issue. Avoid bottled water in India ( read how, here ) and other single use plastic items – carry your own bamboo straw and eat in vs taking away/parcel dishes wrapped in pastic
• Goa has a water shortage. It might not look like it, but water often gets diverted away from homes to resorts, leaving locals with not much. Avoid resorts with pools that are near the beach (the ocean is the best swimming pool there is!) and be mindful of your water consumption – take short showers, not baths, turn taps off while brushing teeth.
• Although Goa is relatively liberal compared to some parts of India, you should still be respectful in how you dress. Leaving the beach in swimwear is not OK, wear clothes. Shorts are generally fine but not the kind that expose your peachy butt 😀
• Not everyone in Goa loves the parties. We’re not trying to be spoilsports, but all of the parties in Goa have taken their toll on local culture, wildlife (from the noise) and caused pollution too. If you’re in Goa to party, please be respectful of others. Drugs are illegal in all of India.
• Stay at homestays and resorts with eco-credentials wherever you can. Plenty of suggestions in this guide!

The Best Resorts in Goa

We cover our favourite places to stay below, but if you’re in a hurry, here are some of our favourite resorts and boutique accommodations in Goa:

• Yab Yum Resort, Ashwem Beach (North Goa) – We love the tranquility, eco-friendliness and quiet vibes at this lesser known resort. Click here to check availability & book on Booking.com
• Anahata Retreat, Ashwem Beach (North Goa) – Also on Ashwem beach, Anahata is a beautiful retreat, built from reclaimed materials. Click here to check availability & book on Booking.com
• Turiya Boutique Villa, Canacona (South Goa) This beautiful and intimate villa is set in a quiet, out of the way corner of Canacona for easy access to Agonda & Palolem beaches. Click here to check availability & book on Booking.com
• Shunya Noi Varo, Siolim (North Goa) a beautifully restored villa, nestled along Goa’s backwaters near Panjim Click here to check availability & book on Booking.com
• Casa da Graça, near Panjim (North Goa), another beautifully restored Portuguese villa, overlooking the Zuari river Click here to check availability & book on Agoda.com
• La Mangrove, Galgibag (South Goa) Chic “eco tipis” tucked away in the very south of Goa. Click here to check availability & book on Agoda.com
• Art Prive Resort, Palolem (South Goa) a nice set of huts on Palolem beach. Click here to check availability & book on Booking.com

Where to Stay in Goa

This guide looks to highlight accommodations that are having a positive impact. From eco resorts in Goa, to family-run homestays, to sustainable glamping (luxurious camping) we’ve included some of our favourites.

Geographically this guide covers a few spots in North Goa, and principally South Goa. We don’t cover central Goa – for good reason (in our opinion). Central Goa and the areas surrounding Baga, Calangute, Majorda, and Colva beaches have become the most mass-touristed; they are popular with groups of men on “lads weekends” and have seen the most cases of harassment for women on the beach. We stayed well clear.

In general it’s fair to say that the far ends of the state are home to some of the most beautiful parts of coastal Goa.

Homestays in Goa

One of the best ways to experience Goa is by staying in a local home with a Goan family. Not only will you be guaranteed the best of Goan home cooking, but you also get a glimpse of the local culture, too. Many homestays are located in the North of Goa along the Konkan coast, bordering Maharashtra. You’ll also find a homestays in Panjim (Panaji) and in the south of Goa towards Karnataka.

Although we did not have the chance to use them, Nativefolks are a company helping travellers experience the local side of Goa and offer a mix of homestays and excursions throughout the state. You can find more info here .

Check rates and find more information on Goa Homestays here . 

North Goa’s coastline is packed with resorts and backpacker enclaves; what used to be hippy hangouts Goa’s early days have largely been replaced by not-so-hip-but-cheap tin shacks. Bars, shops selling dreamcatchers and spiritual music, next door to pizza joints line the beaches where babes in skimpy bikinis stroll past fully clothed families (and more than a few guys not-so-sneakily clicking photos). It’s an odd dynamic, but regardless what you make of it, one thing is for sure: Chances to experience local Goan culture are limited in most of the northern resorts.

On our first trips to Goa, we completely avoided the North having heard bad things about it. On our most recent trip, however we had reason to venture here: We’d heard of several companies actively involved in reforming tourism in North Goa to create a positive impact, and some beautiful eco resorts as well.

Stopover in Delhi? Checkout our Delhi travel guide here .

Where to Stay in North Goa

The only spots we’d recommend from personal experience in north Goa are Ashwem and Panjim. That’s not to say that other good options are not available, but these are the ones we are happy recommending based on our time there.

Where to stay in Ashwem

One of our favourite things from our time in North Goa was our stay at Yab Yum Resort . Yab Yum is a beautiful eco resort set behind Ashwem beach, in grounds covered in greenery and swaying palms. Every room is a “hut” – but there’s nothing ramshackle about these ones. Lovingly moulded out of local mud and covered in a traditional thatch of palm leaves, the effect is staying in a nourishing cocoon that is cooling yet warm and homely at the same time. The resort uses local produce for its delicious meals.

The beach of Ashwem is quiet in comparison to surrounding beaches in North Goa: early in the morning we had the beaches purely to ourselves – and the local beach dogs who came up and licked our faces during our morning meditation! One of the highlights for us was the daily yoga at Yab Yum.

Check rates and availability at Yab Yum Resort here ! 

Where to Stay in Panjim (Panaji)

Panjim is sometimes overlooked by travellers in favour of the beach, but we loved taking a day to wander and explore the old Latin quarter of Panjim: Fontainhas. Here the coloured houses, galleries and neat streets whisk you away to another continent – where the Portuguese history and influence is clear.

Fontainhas is home to some beautifully restored and characterful boutique hotels, such as Panjim Inn and Hospiteria Abrigo de Botelho,  although there are no eco-friendly hotels in Panjim per se.

Things to Do in North Goa

Things to do in panjim.

Whether you have just a few hours or a few days in Panjim, we found that Panjim has plenty of charm. Take time to wander around Panjim’s Fontainhas pausing for photos of the colourful buildings and sip a fresh lime soda on one of the cafe’s balconies away from the hustle and bustle of the streets. The Gallery Gitanjali at the Panjim Inn is home to a wide range of art works from international painters.

Wander further north for a good look at the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church , a walk that will take you alongside the Mandovi River promenade where you can see a range of shipping – from the moored casinos on the quay to the huge cargo ships that dock. Stop by Cafe Tato’s  for a delicious Goan style Pau Bhaji. 

Panjim has it’s own beach – Miramar beach – but you probably won’t want to go for a swim here given the amount of shipping traffic that heads past into Panjim port. Instead, it’s a nice spot to watch the sunset.

In the Miramar beach area you can also  take a cooking class with Authenticook and learn more about traditional Goan cuisine.

Mangueshi temple – located halfway between Panjim and Vasco de Gama, is Goa’s most famous and one of its busiest. The main temple is dedicated to Bhagavan Manguesh, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple complex is over 500 years old.

Things to do in Morjim and Ashwem

Exploring the Mangroves

One of our favourite things to do in Morjim (and in North Goa) was our excursion with Konkan Explorers into the mangroves. Konkan Explorers run boat trips in Goa, with a difference. You can either venture out to sea or inland; we chose the inland option to sail down the Morjim river (in their state-of-the-art solar powered boat) where we transferred to kayaks to explore the mangrove creeks.

Konkan Explorers have set up their trips to show a side of Goa that too few visitors get to see – and it’s well worth it. We learned about the importance of the mangrove ecosystem and the role it plays in protecting Goa’s coastline. Mangroves not only have the ability to grow where no other tree can (due to the salinity of the water) but they provide a breeding ground and safe habitat for thousands of species. Mangroves secure topsoil and help prevent erosion, and also help to filter toxic chemical run off into the water from farmland. They also help protect coastlines from tsunamis and storms.

It’s perhaps no longer surprising that as Mumbai destroys its mangroves  it continues to experience worse than ever monsoon floods.

Konkan Explorers trips are operated by a crew of locals alongside Bengali-French owners, support local communities and look to minimise their impact alongside educating locals and visitors alike on the importance of Mangroves.

Find more information about tours with Konkan Explorers here ! 

Dolphin Watching

If taking to the water is your thing then it is also possible to take a dolphin watching trip. Many fishermen will approach you on beaches with offers, or you can find operators in most resort towns. Unfortunately dolphins have been adversely affected by many boat operators chasing down dolphins and getting too close: be vocal about the need to respect a good distance between the boat and dolphins. For further information on responsible dolphin watching as well as diving, Terra Conscious are a good source of information and offer longer-term volunteering placements.

Get a taste of the Local Brew 

For those curious for a taste of the local Feni a visit to Madame Rosa’s distillery farm in Valpoi is recommended! Find out all about their Big Boss brand and the process of distilling from cashew nuts. You can contact them on tel: +91-9823029032.

Things to do in Arambol & the North Goa Coast

Lined with cliffs, sweeping bays and winding roads North Goa is beautiful to explore on the back of a scooter (2-wheeler). Take care, however check the quality of your bike before heading out – we had several rental scooters that were far from *ahem* “ideal”. Wear your helmet at all times and go slow.

The flea markets at Arambol and Anjuna (the original hippy paradises of Goa) make for some great shopping, although unfortunately they are becoming increasingly flooded with cheap tat produce from China. Arambol street market is permanent and lines the street for about 3km down to the beach.

Arambol Drum Circle (on the beach) also has a separate flea market that starts every evening at about 5pm.

Further south, Anjuna Beach hosts its legendary flea market every Wednesday, where artisans travel from not only all over Goa, but all over India come to sell their handicrafts. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the sun is not too strong and live music starts at some of the nearby beach shacks. Anjuna flea market runs from November – March from 9am – 6pm (Wednesdays).

South Goa is the original part of Goa that we fell in love with – for its lush paddy fields, laid-back vibes, and occasional hidden corner of empty beach. Whether it stays that way remains to be seen – beaches such as Palolem and Agonda are already well established on the tourist map – and although they may be “quiet” compared to the madness at Calangute – Palolem is already very crowded.

Our first stop was the town of Agonda – sleepy compared to some of the manic resorts further to the north – but with a nice vibe and traveller bustle. Although there are no eco-friendly options as such, we enjoyed staying at Ramsons Resort right on the beach for its chilled atmosphere and proximity to town.

Further south of the town of Canacona there remain some real gems to be found, for those willing to travel the extra mile. We hope that this part of Goa remains pristine for all to enjoy well into the future – for tips on how we can do this check out our responsible travel in Goa section below!

Where to Stay in South Goa

Our favourite place to stay in South Goa was La Mangrove , a chic glamping resort and eco lodge just south of Galgibag at the southern tip of Goa. Nestled back from the coast and facing onto a river and mangroves, this resort is still just a few minutes from Galgibag beach – one of the few beaches in Goa to be completely unspoiled (and empty even in high season).

La Mangrove describes itself as an “Eco Luxury Boutique Hotel” and they manage to achieve just that feel. The accommodation consists of teepee style tents – stylishly decorated on the inside complete with full size beds and even hanging wardrobe space to store your clothes. The only thing to note is that you do have to bend down to get into the tents – good practice for morning yoga!

We loved waking up to the sounds of the birds in the mangroves in this peaceful spot that is really a unique place to stay in Goa.

The owners have taken lots of initiative when it comes to sustainability too, there are composting toilets (not as scary as they sound!), organic – only products are allowed (and provided) for showering so the grey water can be re-used; and use of energy is low here.

Click here to check rates and availability at La Mangrove, Goa .

We searched Agonda for responsible accommodation options but found none, there is an eco lodge on Cola beach (just north of Agonda) which we didn’t have time to check out in person – Dwarka Eco Beach Resort .

There’s also the option to stay at Tanshikar Spice Farm – see below.

Things to Do in South Goa

Life in South Goa flows at an altogether slower pace – perhaps that’s why we liked it so much! That means that you don’t need to find a long list of things to do in South Goa for your trip – it’s the perfect place to sit back, relax, and re-connect.

Netravali Wildlife Reserve

About an hour’s drive from the south Goa coast, is the Netravali wildlife reserve . Goa’s largest reserve at over 200 sq kilometres, you may not see a huge amount of wildlife (we didn’t) but this is a beautiful place to retreat to for a few hours. A drive through the reserve is serene and quiet and you can find many waterfalls along the way. Although the park itself is shady the drive there is not so learn from our mistake and go in the morning or later afternoon rather than get caught in the midday sun 😉 .

Tanshikar Spice Farm

You may come across plenty of offers of spice tours during your time in Goa, but a visit to Tanshikar Spice farm is truly something different. Located beyond Netravali Wildlife Reserve, we were lucky enough to meet the owner and have him show us around his organic farm and garden. The main house is a traditional Goan house built with mud and bricks, and a working example of the perfection of simple living – without AC – in modern times.

The farm offers tours, farm-to-table lunches (do  not leave until you have had one of their fresh cacao smoothies!), and for those who want to stay longer, you can even book a stay in one of their rooms or treehouses. Don’t expect wifi or TV, a stay at Tanshikar offers the opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and re-connect with nature.

Contact Tanshikar Spice farm for more info via their website or on Tel: +91 94211 84114. 

Visit some of Goa’s Beautiful Temples

Our favourite temple is Shri Malikarjun Temple of Canacona, located a short drive from Canacona town – it holds a dear place in our hearts as it is Ravi’s family temple; but it’s also one of the most beautiful temples we’ve seen. Set in surrounding forest and jungle, this temple has a backdrop of ghats (mountains) and beautiful palms against the blue goan skies. The temple is a shrine dedicated to Shrimalikarjuna, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. It’s also one of Goa’s oldest temples and is thought to date from the 16th century. Our tip is to visit early in the morning for beautiful light and photo ops.

Trekking in South Goa

There are a number of beautiful treks in Goa which take you inland and to the best vantage points to enjoy some of this beautiful state’s natural scenery. One popular trek is to the Dudhsagar Waterfalls – famous for its pictures of trains passing dramatically close to the falls. The falls themselves are at their fullest flow in September/October just after rainy season and slow to a trickle in the winter months.

There are hiking trails in Netravali Wildlife Reserve , as well as various other waterfall treks including the Pali Waterfall Trail (5km one way) and the Sonal Waterfall Trail (12km one way).

We recommend always trekking with a guide – make sure to take plenty of water with you and leave nothing behind you in nature. Goa Tourism has more information about trekking in Goa.

Ride the Konkan Railway

Some of India’s most beautiful railway line winds its way through Goa and is known as the “Konkan Railway” – unfortunately the local trains are few and far between, but hopping on one is a chance to see some of Goa’s stunning scenery.

Find more information and train times for the Konkan Railway here .

It’s possible to charter a yacht or catamaran to explore more of Goa’s coastline: check Adventure Breaks for more information.

Travelling south India? Read all about the best of Kerala in our Kerala travel guide !

Goa’s Interiors

Some of Goa’s most beautiful spots are arguably not at the beach at all, but rather in Goa’s lush interiors. Monsoon can be a great time to explore inland Goa as the state’s vegetation comes to life, and a carpet of green emerges. We have yet to experience inland Goa during monsoon, but you can check out our friend Shivya of the Shooting Star’s guide to Goa during rainy season .

If venturing inland, one place we would recommend is responsible tourism award-winning Wildernest Nature Resort , set in a remote part of inland North Goa. It’s a birder’s paradise and for those who would love to experience more of India’s tranquility and nature.

Yoga Retreats in Goa

Alongside Rishikesh , Goa is one of India’s (and the world’s) top destinations for Yoga. There are countless yoga schools, yoga teacher training programs and yoga retreats in Goa. Telling which ones are the real deal can be challenging.

How to choose the best Yoga retreat in Goa?

First off, ask for recommendations from your home yoga teacher if they know anyone – chances are most of the yoga community seem to know someone teaching yoga in Goa!

When it comes to eco friendly yoga in Goa, we found Yoga Magic had unparalleled reviews, and we love their ethos of re-creating a simple and yogic existence without harming their surroundings and environment. They’ve even been voted one of the best Yoga retreats in the world thanks to the Sunday Times (UK). They are located in Anjuna (North Goa).

Whichever Yoga retreat in Goa you choose, be sure to check reviews on sites such as Google and Tripadvisor to verify that the centre has a good reputation.

Search for Yoga Retreats in Goa here!

Responsible Travel in Goa

As you’ve hopefully gathered from the rest of this post, Goa is a place which is especially vulnerable to the consequences (both good and bad) of tourism – given the large numbers of travellers that visit. Help make your trip have a positive impact for Goa by considering the following recommendations:

• Construction of permanent structures and swimming pools directly on/next to Goa’s coastline is not allowed (but some owners have managed to “bend” the rules) – avoid such places and choose to swim in the ocean instead.
• Water is a big issue in Goa. The state may seem lush and fertile, but there are real water shortages in Goa. Often what water there is gets diverted to tourists while locals get left with not much. Try to take shorter showers, turn taps off while brushing teeth, avoid swimming pools and generally be mindful of your water consumption.
• Avoid single use plastic. Linger longer and eat in vs take-away, carry cutlery, a bamboo or metal straw (for all that irresistibly fresh coconut water) with you.
• If you see locals littering try and tell them kindly not to do it. Much as there is a lack of education about littering in some parts of the world including Goa, there is also a huge infrastructure problem. T here is no recycling facility in Goa and hardly any waste collection services – leaving people stuck with piles of trash. Which makes consumption of plastic an even bigger problem – avoid it completely if you can.
• Say no to plastic bottled water. Not only is plastic toxic to drink from, but as is all too easy to see – the waste is a nightmare. Seeing as tap water is not safe to drink in India, filtered water (UV or RO) is widely available in India and safe to drink even for  ferangis . Take a refillable water bottle with you and ask for “normal water” or filter pani . Ignore any money-minded cafe owners who try to persuade you to buy bottled water $$. If you can’t find filtered water, you can boil water before drinking it. We also love our trusty Steripen when on the road.
• Stay at locally owned places and support local business where you can. This can be tough in Goa where many resorts and businesses are owned by foreigners and a large part of the hospitality staff come from Nepal and further afield. Homestays (see above) are a great option for staying local and seeing something of the vibrant Goan culture.
• Take local transport where you can vs taxis.

What to Wear in Goa

In general easy-going Goa requires a lot less adjustment than some other parts of India, but women in particular should still be mindful of how they dress (and the direct relation to how they are therefore perceived in Goa). As domestic tourism increases and foreign women in Bikinis are arguably as much a reason to go to Goa for some as the beaches are… unfortunately.

For more India dressing tips, check out our what to wear in India guide here !

One ground rule is that swimwear is not acceptable off the beaches: if you’re walking around nearby markets and streets cover up with clothes or at least a sarong covering your top and bottom half.

Opinions on what to wear in Goa differs; we chose to cover up off the beach but I did wear my bikini on Agonda beach. You’ll equally see plenty of girls strutting it in mini-shorts. What you decide is your call, but it does affect how you may be viewed or approached. Guys have it much easier, but generally shouldn’t walk around topless off the beach.

A few tips for ladies –

• When it comes to swimwear, go for more conservative options and save the cheeky/brazilian cut for another trip…
• It’s fine to wear sleeveless tops (but avoid showing cleavage)
• Showing leg is fine – unlike in other parts of India  – I wore mid length shorts above the knee in beach towns which was fine.
• If you’re on a local vs tourist beach or swimming in a waterfall or river, swimsuits or bikinis are not a good idea – follow the locals and swim in shorts and t-shirt.

Getting Around in Goa

Goa is easily accessible from most cities in India, and there are international flights that fly into Dabolim, Goa’s main airport. From other cities in India you can choose to travel by train or by plane depending on your preferences, time available and budget. We always suggest train travel over other forms in India as it’s a) most interesting and b) less polluting than flying.

The journey from Mumbai to Goa by train is one of the country’s most beautiful train rides and takes around 8 hours. If you want to see the scenery (recommended) then take a morning train such as the Jan Shatabdi from Mumbai, which gets you in to Madgaon for a late lunch (hopefully). Read all you need to know about train travel in India here.

Within Goa, there is the Konkan railway (see above); train can be a fast and effective way to get from one end of the state to the other – such as from Canacona to Thivim or Pernem. The main Goa railway station is at Madgao(n) and there are also train stations at Karmali (for Panjim) and Vasco de Gama. Check carefully which station your train leaves from! If you’re willing to “slum it” in General or Second Class – which can get very crowded – you can just turn up and buy a ticket and go. If not, you need to buy tickets as far as possible in advance.

State run and private buses are also a good way to get around and most services run between towns – they are more regular than trains. There are also a range of long distance buses to other cities – check routes and times on Redbus .

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Taxis, Car Rental, Tuk-Tuks/Autos and Scooters

These forms of transport are probably how at least some of your travelling around in Goa will be done. Taxis are a bit of a nightmare in Goa: unfortunately the drivers have formed strong unions, set prices very high, and finding a driver who will take you somewhere for an honest price is like looking for a needle in a haystack. The same goes for autos in tourist areas – who do *not* use the meter and will charge as much as they can.

We tried to hire a car in Goa but were not able to find any reasonable options: we would not recommend driving in India for non-Indians given the different approach to driving and road safety in India. Generally hire cars can be picked up in Panjim, finding other places may or may not be possible.

Scooter rental on the other hand is much easier and is how most travellers get around in Goa. Be careful to check the quality of the bike you are given – especially if the brakes and lights, and horn work before setting off on any journey. Never leave your passport as security for the bike – instead leave a copy of it. Enjoying Goa’s scenery on two wheels is great fun as well as beautiful – needless to say don’t drink and drive and always wear a helmet! Happy riding 🙂

Have you been to Goa? Are you considering a trip? We’d love to hear your Goa experiences and thoughts – drop us a line in the comments below! 

Goa Travel FAQ’s

When is the best time to visit goa.

Wherever you decide to stay in Goa, know that coastal Goa is a seasonal destination as the monsoons here are strong.

The tourist season runs from October to April or May – after this time you’ll find much accommodation is closed (many of the beach huts are fully dismantled and re-built each year which goes some way towards explaining their ramshackle nature). It is possible to visit the beaches of Goa during monsoon (and some visitors love it) but it you do be prepared for wild winds and rain – swimming in the churning Arabian sea is definitely out of the question.

Goa’s busiest time is during the Christmas and New Year holidays, where it can be hard to find a room (and if you do you’ll pay triple price) – so if you can it’s best to avoid that time . October, November, February and March are great times to visit Goa’s beaches.

Goa gets a second surge of visitors at the end of April / beginning of May as Indian school summer holidays start.

Is Travel to Goa Safe?

Goa is one of the safest (and most liberal) areas of India to visit. The biggest things to watch out for are being ripped off by Goa’s business-minded taxi drivers and market vendors (practice your haggling skills)! Women, especially solo women should stay off beaches at night and put our general advice for solo female travel in India to practice.

Never walk around in swimwear off the beach, out of respect for locals as well as to avoid unwanted attention. Read more about our recommended places to visit (and some places we don’t recommend) in this guide!

Where are the Best Places to Visit in Goa?

To get away from the crowds and experience a quieter, more authentic version of Goa, we recommend:

– Visiting the far north and south of Goa’s coastline. The Beaches of Central Goa are where most of the crowds head (Baga and Calangute – avoid these), but the far north and south of Goa’s coastline are more relaxed and laid back. – Visit outside of peak season (December – Feb) for better prices and fewer crowds – Explore Goa away from the beaches – the interiors of Goa are lush and beautiful, great for hiking or nature watching. – Discover Goa’s backwaters (yes it has them too!) – Spend some time exploring old Panjim

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Orange Wayfarer

Culturally Immersive & Responsible Travel

Ultimate Goa Travel Guide for the First Time Travelers!

About this blog: This travel guide to Goa will list out all the practical travel tips to the Coastal state of West India, and the country’s most beloved beach destination. If you are traveling to Goa for the first time, you will ideally find all the answers related to Goa travel in this article! If you do not, ask away in the comments section please!

Read all the posts on Goa Travel here!

Traveling to Goa is often hailed as a sign of attaining adolescent in India. Her long stretched coast line promises a new kind of free. Once a part of the iconic Hippie trail that flourished all the way from Europe to Nepal, Goa gave birth to a “New Found Land”, where you can just be, drifting away from the prejudices and societal niceties that bind you beyond logic can reason wish!

You do not visit Goa just once. You want to live there, get drunk on the intangible elixir that Arabian Sea serves with salty breeze! I visited Goa on a long weekend trip from Bangalore. I revisited Goa with another set of friends, in between a lot of failed Goa trip planning which are an incumbent part of Indian Millennial’s growing up experience! Then life happened and I visited Goa multiple times for “work”, I mean for travel blogging.

Each time, I visit, Goa opens a new chapter from past, while siting glorious nature by side.

• Language spoken: Konkoni, Marathi. Largely understood- English and Hindi.
• Famous for Beautiful beaches, water-sports, night-markets, sea food, yoga, nightlife
• Safer place to travel to for solo women in India
• It is a tiny state. Prosperous and with higher literacy rate. One of the leading tourist destinations in India.

How to reach Goa (by car/train/flight)

Goa is well connected with the rest of the country. Especially, multiple hour-long flights fly daily from Mumbai (erstwhile Bombay) to Goa, India’s financial capital. I prefer train journey to Goa as the route is particularly scenic!

Train journey by Konkan Railways!

Madgaon (MAO) and Vasco Da Gama (VSG) are the two major railway stations that connect Goa with rest of the country. If you are traveling to Goa from Bangalore or southern parts of India, I highly recommend taking a ride through Konkon railway. You shall see Dudhsagar falls for a fraction and mist shrouded lush green jungle everywhere will greet you to the land of Goa.

Fly into Dabolim Airport, Goa

Dabolim (GOI) is a domestic airport which is yet to receive international flights unless you are flying on a charter plane from somewhere in Russia. That is how Russians fly into Goa, in style. However, domestic carriers like Air Asia, Indigo, Spice Jet have multiple flights to Goa from morning 6 am to 11 pm at night.

Also keep in mind, Dabolim is an army airport serving the naval base of Indian Military and photography is restricted here. In Goa, a new airport is on the make to accommodate increased tourist footfall and should be operational by 2020.

Bus to Goa from nearby states

Overnight bus runs from nearby states and takes you to the connecting hub at Kadamba Bus station. From Bombay or Pune, traveling to Goa by bus is a last minute budget option. Bangalore to Goa bus is there too, however it runs for a painful 11/12 hours and stops are sparse. Bus journey in India do not have attached tpilets.

Goa Central bus station is located at the heart of Panaji. You can further change bus for North or South Goa or rent a car. Public bus ply in Goa till 6 pm and then frequency slows down, especially for the longer routes till Margao etc.

Road-trip to Goa

NH 66 passes through the Western coast of Indian peninsula and runs through Goa. Roads are a pleasure to drive. However you need international licence to drive in India (in case you are not Indian passport holder).

On new year eve or long weekends, there had been multiple reports of roadblocks with excessive traffic. Monsoon may cause road blockage due to mild flooding as well.

Public Transport in Goa

Kadamba line has recently hit the Goa roads. The Aircon bus runs from Panaji to tourist town of Arambol and Calagute. They also have hourly connectivity with Dabolim airport. Prices are close to INR 100 and Kadamba busline in Goa is the safest transport option.

How to rent a bike in Goa

You can also hire bikes, cars by depositing your licence. Do not forget to get a photo of the license which will can be further used at police check points on the road if any.

Bikes or cars are generally driven on the left side of the lane everywhere in India. Traffic rules are strict. Drunk driving is a punishable offence.

Also read about the most beautiful beaches of Goa . You may explore some of them in a long weekend vacation to Goa as well!

Best Time to Visit Goa

Famous for beach-life, Goa is best enjoyed under the bright sun. Winter is literally non existence.

Usually, tourist season in Goa spans from November to wee end of March. April is when school in India are closed for summer and you are likely to see plenty of domestic families traveling to Goa. Come every long weekend, millennial Indians working in nearby cities head to Goa to chase the grand sunset on Arabian sea. That crowd does not disperse when during monsoon.

The winter months in Goa usually have a very pleasurable moderate weather. They neither make you shiver under the blanket, nor force-feed challenging humidity. Summer can be different though, with a bright sun scorching everything on its way.

Monsoon in Goa

Monsoon in Goa is painfully beautiful. Raindrops drizzle from the straw huts and hinterlands turn lush green, complementing a swelled up river Mandovi. But Arabian Sea takes up a dangerous form, with most of the beach being off limit to swimmers. Watersports are usually closed during monsoon. Beach shacks are extinct.

Head to Goa during monsoon, if you love nature. However for the postcard perfect Goa where golden sand beaches stretch out till the horizon, dotted with coconut groves, you need to wait till dry month of winter.

Many beach huts and beach shacks are usually closed during monsoon. Be cognizant of the fact, relentless rain may also cause violent undercurrent in the sea.

Festivals in Goa

Be it a reminiscent of 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule or rich heritage of locals who find mention in epic tales of Mahabharat, Goa has no dearth of festivals and celebrations. It is worth planning your trip around one such festival in Goa. Watch out for the colorful costume, specific food, people letting there hair down and being a part of the merry procession, irrespective of cast and creed. It is beautiful.

Narkasur : Post Diwali, Narka Chaturdashi celebration where good triumphs over evil is manifested. It resembles that of Bhoot Chaturdashi or Dakini Jogini in Bengal , which we worship during Kalipuja when the rest of the country celebrates Diwali.

Viva Carnival : The Catholic festival, often compared to Mardi Gras, or even Rio carnival, that starts from Fat Saturday ( Sabado Gordo ) and end on Fat Tuesday, is a grand celebration where floats, parades, masked dance and other cultural identity find a way of expression. It is celebrated in Panaji and sort of reminds me of “Bisarjan Carnival” of Durgapuja, Kolkata .

New Years Eve: 31st December. Goa brings in New year in style with beaches beaming with color, elaborate fireworks and music.

Music festival in Goa : Supersonic, Sunburn.

Also read: Ramadan Foodwalk in Hyderabad!

Where to stay in Goa

I keep saying Goa as a tiny state. However, it takes at least 7 days to cover all the coastal region and hinterlands of Goa. You will still not see everything, but at least scratch the surface.

It is imperative, where you choose to stay in Goa, can actually make or break the experience.

Let me break down possible tourist accommodation options in Goa in three broad categories. Those who love to party and want to taste every pleasure Goa offers to tourists, must choose Baga or Calangute . Those who love offbeat stays and serenity, can choose between further North or South Goa. Panaji is the capital with plenty of old world charm. But who lives in Panaji when holidaying in Goa? It is good for a day trip.

North or South Goa, how to choose where to stay : this question can be compared with who came first, chicken or the egg? Here, let us look at the pros and cons of each area. I have stayed in these places personally and sharing feedback basis on my experience.

Staying at Baga/Calangute

Pro: Almost everything is available. You name it and you get it. Multiple bike rentals, car rentals, accommodation options, budget hostels, central bus station, public transport, bustling nightlife, cheap and quirky cafes. Nice beach, but…

Con: … the beach is super crowded. Especially, if you are in Baga on a weekend. Prices are on the higher end. Beach shacks are aplenty on season but charges painfully high price.

Staying at Arambol/Ashwem (extreme North Goa)

Despite a Cyclonic storm, I loved my experience of staying at the Yab Yum Beach Resort, Goa. It was right next to the hidden Ashwem beach and away from the buzz of a world moving, changing at a lightening fast speed.

Pro: Offbeat destination, often entire stretch of beach to yourself, away from where stag groups travel hence safer option for a solo woman traveler.

Con: Lack of water sports and limited activities. Not a bustling nightlife around.

Also read: Top 12 Cultural experiences in Goa!

Staying at South Goa

In south Goa, Colva, Benaulim, and Varca has multiple luxury resorts and upscale stay options. Further down south, Agonda and Patnem has better tourist infrastructures.

Pro: Offbeat, serene place, less crowded, beautiful lagoon style beaches, authentic local experience. Best for slow travel and exploring.

Con: Further away from central location. Long drive from airport/train station. Pricier in some cases. Less activities.

Book a stay in G oa: check reviews and best prices here!

Alternative stays in Goa

Goa also houses a world class wellness resort at Divar Island, where tranquility finds a new name. Check out my review of Mercure Devaaya Resort and choose it for a complete detoxing (7 spiritual) holiday in Goa!

Also read: 7 days in Shillong, where I lost my heart!

How Many Days are Good for Goa

Those who stay close-by, visit Goa for 3/4 days for a quick relaxing holiday by the beach. In reality, Goa deserves a longer stay, preferably between one week to 10 days. The state, in its short geographical span, holds numerous beautiful places of interests, each of which merits a visit.

With friendly locals, good connectivity and decent internet, Goa has emerged as an obvious choice for digital nomad hot spot in India. Slow traveling, living by the beach, great cafes and regular interaction with creative artists, Goa promises all of these and more. I have seen western families traveling to Goa with kids and their homework pile and solving mathematics by the beach. It felt surreal to some extent. Our summer vacations were ll about visiting Dadu and learning English grammar in the afternoon by the “ parar pukur “, local pond!

Top Things to Do in Goa

Goa is lauded as the beach capital of India. There are countless beautiful beaches in Goa, with Baga being one of the longest in entire world. They are sometimes hidden by a cliff, sometime out in the open. Some beaches in Goa are protector of lagoon. Some of them emerge with tidal waves. Beach hopping is what you must do when in Goa.

My pick for top 5 beaches in Goa!

• Cancolim Beach: the best in North Goa. The crowd is decent. Shacks were nice. Restaurants close-by were serving delicious food. Nightlife is good too.
• Ashwem beach: The best looking beach with white sand and blue sky as the backdrop. Located by the cliffs hence a bit hidden from the outside world. private and sky. No shack nearby.
• Vagator beach: Best looking beach as you get a perspective from the cliff. Chapora fort is located close which is an amazing place to catch the sunset!
• Colva beach: The only beach in Goa where I found translucent clear water despite heavy crowd During independence day. There is a shack close by where they serve Bengali meal too! I think it was named a Sonar Bangla. Local fishermen’s boat create beautiful photo ops at the Colva beach.
• Palolem beach: One of the best beaches in South Goa. It is coming up fast with many activities, local markets and food joints close by.

Also read: A complete guide to wildlife safari at Masaimara, Kenya!

Goa beyond the beaches!

However, there are tonnes of offbeat things to do in Goa . They span from cultural exploration to adventure activities.

1. Explore Old Goa. Velha Goa . It houses Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, both UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. Explore colorful neighborhood of Fontainhas , a piece of Portugal at the heart of Goa!

3. Take a day trip to the mighty Doodhsagar falls. Be cognizance of the fact that only local cars take you to the top. Only a limited number of car gets permit everyday hence it is best if you start your day early.

4. Sinquerim beach is the hot bed for all the water sport activities in Goa. Water sports are subject to a clear weather day. Parasailing, jet ski and banana boat are the most fun activities in my opinion.

5. Birding at Dr. Salim Ali Sanctuary is one of the prized experience in Goa. If you have time, I suggest take a day off to Dandeli wildlife Sanctuary and watch the pied piper hornbills in North Karnataka.

Yoga in Goa

Plenty of Yoga Teacher training school and Yoga retreats have come up in Goa. I stayed at the Devaaya resort and has taken part in Sunrise Yoga sessions which was uplifting holistic experience. Do not forget to pack a few yoga mats in your Goa bound luggage because there is nothing more refreshing than starting an active day on a beach.

Nightlife in Goa

There is no dearth of option in Goa, if you are a social animal. From night long trance parties to casino to nightclubs, central Goa usually stays abuzz with events for the whole night!

• Play at one of the casino cruise when in Goa. I went to Delyin and I liked the experience despite sort of meh food.
• LPK (Love Passion Karma) at Nerul is one club with decent crowd. Club Cubana is nice too.

Money Matters

Goa can be traveled in a shoestring budget. Goa can easily turn into a luxurious trip if you are in a mood to splurge. Options are wide and endless!

Night clubs, Casino, fine dine restaurants like Thalassa are few of the high class places to visit in Goa. For luxury stay, go with the Taj Aguada.

Like the rest of India, cash is the king in Goa, especially when you are buying from local markets or eating at the street side joints. Cash will make you and the seller happy. However card and in some cases digital wallets (think PayTM, much like M-pesa in Kenya or google Pay) works too.

Stay Connected: Wifi in Goa

Goa is well connected with most prominent Indian network (think Airtel, Vodaphone, or more recent Jio). However, I have seen network drops as you proceed towards obscure interior of the state.

Most of the hotels and beach side cafes provide decent wifi to get some work done, if not streaming a Netflix series.

Tracing back the Hippie trail from olden Goa!

The ghost of 70s hippie trail is yet to give Goa a respite. A typical hippie with grunge deadlocks and deep understanding of empty meagerness of life is a rare find. What you can find is a lot of western travelers tucked away at the fringe end of North and South Goa beaches. Think Arambol. Think Mandrem. Think Patnem.

Arambol is famed for the evening drum songs on the beach.

Souvenir Shopping in Goa

The iconic flea market of Anjuna and the likes of it which have mushroomed in recent times sell a number of interesting stuff. Though it may feel like a bargain, I tell you a bitter truth. I have bought/seen similar silver anklets or beaded necklace for lesser price at Gariahat market, Kolkata . Buy jewelry only if you are not heading to Kolkata in near future!

Bargaining in Indian local market is an art by itself. I usually start from 1/3rd of the initial quote. It may yield a good buy or sometimes I have to let it go.

Flea markets in Goa in earlier days used to sell imported goods which were off limits by virtue of a socialist state. Now that the entire globe is one village and we are swimming in a globalized market, most of these products make their way from China.

I usually sky away from these souvenir shops unless I am on the lookout for a quick swimwear. My favorite souvenirs from Goa are:

• A bottle of Feni
• Kunbi saree
• Musical instruments
• Bibinca cake
• Bottle of Kokum Juice
• Spices, especially black pepper and bird’s eye chillies
• Azulejos: Handpainted tiles of Goa

I Know. I am inching towards a life sans hedonism!

Arpora night market is a famous addition. So are the Sunday night markets. There are aplenty in Goa.

Stay safe when in Goa!

Goa is a safe place to travel to.

You may come across few rare news of violence against tourists in Goa. To be honest, I have traveled in Goa during a natural calamity (Cyclone Kyarr) and was scared of pack of dogs more than unknown male.

I was traveling solo. Even when I was traveling with friends, Goa was a safe place.

It is not the locals of Goa, but people traveling to Goa that create problem. Stay AWAY if you spot a group of male friends.

If people want to click a selfie with you, and come close with that excuse, strictly deny. This has escalated into unpleasant consequences in past. If you are making new friends and drinking with them, be very very cautious, irrespective of the new friends’ gender. Traveling from Central Goa to North (say Baga to Ashwem/Arambol) may turn out to be a tricky choice if you are a solo woman. I would suggest, try to pack your day by sunlight, especially if you are traveling alone and do not have a private vehicle.

Uber does not work in Goa. They have an app named Goa Miles. It works. Sometimes, it does not. It is a bit tricky. You should always have a plan B.

Mosquito and insect repellents are must when you are packing for Goa. Mosquito bites can make you susceptible to Malaria, Dengue apart from unpleasant looking rash.

When you discover an empty beach, be careful while approaching the bush or jungle nearby. Poisonous snake may call it home! yes, I have encountered a Cobra when in Goa. I am still alive and writing this blog post so do not panic!

Responsible Travel Tips for Goa

The Single Use plastic menace in Goa!

Beaches in Goa goes through surging plastic pollution, littering and other vices during tourist season. I have seen plogging party arranged by local communities at Arambol however there is no permanent solution to it. Plastic is hardly recycled in Goa.

Each coconut you buy, comes with a straw which put me off to no end. Traditionally, coconut juice is drunk in India from the shell itself. A few droplets will drench your shirt but that’s the beauty of it. Straws have emerged as the new devil.

Try to be mindful when you consume and stay away from accepting that extra single use plastic. Small things like carrying own tiffin-box for a take away counts in the longer run too!

Wildlife in Goa

Goa is largely saved from the vices of animal riding, say horses or camels on the beach. There are cows on the beach in abundance but they cohabit with humans, and work on the field on season, with the farmer. India remains largely an Agriculture based economy.

The only time I found disturbing proximity to animals were when local fishermen approach you for Dolphin tours. They will basically chase the dolphins in their natural habitat. I say leave it to your luck. I met dolphin in Goa when I was on a water bike. It came, pranced along by the side and swam alongside for 5 minutes before disappearing. What a blissful experience!

Support the local artist in Goa

Goa has a thriving artist community. Multiple art gallery dot the street side of Baga and calangute. Make sure you visit one and support the artist by buying her creation. Goa also has beautiful checkered print Saree, also known as Kunbi Saree. I think they add value to any collector’s wardrobe.

Alcohol & Drug in Goa

Due to relaxed taxation policy, alcohol is cheaper in Goa than other states in India. The local moonshine, Feni, has earned a GI tag and is a must try when in Goa. However drunk driving is a punishable offence by law, anywhere in India. Buying alcohol in Goa and taking is to other states can also draw ire of the authority. Do check with your flight/transport provider.

Drug consumption is punishable offence in India. Ganja/weed is sometimes sold on the beach by some over enthusiast chaps, which is an illegal act by itself. Of course it can lead to what happened to Saif Ali Khan in Dil Chahta Hain. Find out at your own risk!

Also read: Kaziranga, home to India’s one horned Rhino populace!

What to wear in Goa

Wearing a bikini/swimsuit in Goa: Yay or nay?

Beaches in Goa are more relaxed in dressing code compared to other Indian beaches. I have personally worn bikini in the following beaches and did not attract unwanted male stare/attention: Baga, Calangute, Candolim, Vagator, Colva, Arambol, Ashwem. Palolem is cool as well.

If you are staying by a beach-side resort, you can generally venture out in the sea in a bikini. When you are walking in the city, or going to eat at restaurants, please do NOT wear swimwear. It is not acceptable.

Hinterlands of Goa is made of traditional Indian households where modest clothing is encouraged. You will not stand out and can easily use public transport if you wear something that covers shoulder and knees. Carry a stole as that will help you to stay safe from the bright sun, fight back humidity and enter temples or churches if any.

Public toilet in Goa

Depending on the hotel you choose, you are likely to encounter a western toilet for a mid-budget to luxury route. For a more budget friendly option, Indian style toilet may make an appearance. It is does, learn to use the mug. In this part of the world, we do our business with water. If you want your tissue bad, I suggest carry some in the purse.

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34 Responses

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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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Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us.

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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…

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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 Tips: 13 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting

by Drifter Planet | Jun 26, 2016 | Goa , India , Most Popular Blog Posts

Travel Tips to get the most out of your Goa visit

I’m sure by now you know that I absolutely LOVE Goa . I love it so much that I spent many hours a few days back in my attempt to create the most detailed guide on the internet to North Goa ! 

In the past few years, I have seen many Goa travel tips on different websites that say things like “carry sunscreen” or “carry comfortable flat sandals or flip flops”.

Yes, these tips are correct but don’t you think they are pretty darn obvious? 

Of course, if you’re visiting a beach destination, you’re going to have to carry sunscreen and flip-flips.

Anyway, I want to help first-time Goa visitors and have decided to share a little more insight about things you need to keep in mind before visiting Goa. Here are some essential Goa travel tips to help you get the most out of your visit to this glorious destination.

Travel Tips for Goa

Table of contents, 1) visa for goa.. umm india.

Based on the volume of people who visit my website from other countries, I feel it is necessary to add information for obtaining a visa for India in this article.

If you don’t know this already – I’m married to a German and he often applies for a tourist visa to visit India. India doesn’t offer a visa-free entry OR a visa on arrival but you can apply for an eVisa. Sadly the government-run website for an eVisa for India or a general tourist visa for India is not so simple to use and usually gives errors on things as simple as picture upload.

Based on the number of painful hours my husband has spent on the Indian embassy’s eVisa website, I highly recommend you make things simpler for yourself and check iVisa . We availed their service when we were in the Philippines and it really made things simpler for us.

Click here to check your visa requirements for India

2) Goa High Season – When NOT to Visit Goa

Goa doesn’t just have high and low seasons, but it also has peak and moderate seasons. Here are some more details:

The low season is from May to mid-September, the High is from November to the middle of December and the peak is from the middle of December to the middle of January.

Avoid visiting Goa during the peak season because you will waste a lot of time in traffic jams.

If you must visit during this time, try to find the most secluded beaches. Chances are, even those beaches will not be secluded during the peak season.

During the New Year and Christmas time, many city folks from all over India (especially Delhi , Mumbai, and Bangalore) visit Goa.

3) Where Not to Stay in Goa

I have mentioned this before and I want to mention this again – Goa offers way more than Calangute – Baga – Candolim or Anjuna beaches. Trust me, these above-mentioned beaches are definitely some of the most crowded ones and no longer have a “Goa vibe”.

For more details about where to stay, check out my post about North Goa Beaches and beyond.

4) You DON’T need to book a place to stay in advance, unless…

Unless you’re visiting very late at night and don’t have time to hunt for a bed, or you’re visiting at peak season, which is December 20 to January 5, I’d recommend you not to prebook your place.

Most travel websites will brainwash you into booking a room because they sell rooms on their websites or on a commission basis. If you book in advance, you miss out on places that don’t advertise on the internet but only through word of mouth.

5) Save money from Goa Airport to your hotel

If you’re visiting Goa, most likely you’re going to arrive here by flight. Unlike most of India, tuk-tuks are not so easily available in Goa.

The cost of traveling in Goa is usually low except the taxis are expensive and unfortunately that’s the only mode of communication you will find at the airports. However, there is a way you can save money on your taxi fare.

At the prepaid taxi counter queue just at the exit gate of the airport, just ask around and try to find fellow travelers who are heading in your direction. Most likely, you will easily find people to share a taxi with for your destination. This has always worked for me!

6) Reaching Goa Airport by Bus

It is possible to get to the airport by bus. From North Goa (let’s say Morjim), take a tuk-tuk (or taxi) to Silom or Mapusa bus stand, and from there catch an express bus to Panjim (Panaji). From Panjim, you need to catch a bus to Vasco and it will drop you 2 KMs away from the airport.

Make sure you let the bus driver know that you have to reach the airport because there’s no proper bus stop where they will drop you off. Do this only if you’re ready to walk with your luggage.

Keep in mind that the last bus from Panjim to Vasco departs at 7 and the queue behind the ticket counter is usually massive, so take out an extra 30 minutes or more for this.

Similarly, if you’re in South Goa (let’s say Agonda), you need to take a tuk-tuk to the nearest bus stand and then take a bus to Margao Bus Terminal. From Margao, board a bus (or Kadamba shuttle) to Vasco. Try finding a bus that goes from Maragao to Vasco via Majorda. Again, make sure you inform your driver that you need to get to the airport so that he can drop you to the nearest point.

Do this only if you have a lot of time before your flight. It took us 4 hours to travel from Vagator to the airport by bus. Looking back, it isn’t worth the hassle but those were my backpacking days when I had a lot of time and hardly any money.

7) Best Way to Explore Goa

If you like walking, you will only be able to explore your beach area and around. If you want to explore further, I’d recommend you rent a scooter.

Exploring Goa on a rented scooter is the best and the most affordable option. These scooters are usually available for INR 300 – 500 per day.

Please make sure you carry your driver’s license because there are many checkpoints. It is possible to rent cars too but many spots can only be accessed by scooters or on foot.

8) Where Not to Swim in Goa

In Goa, certain areas are marked by red flags which means it’s dangerous to swim there. The sea will appear to be calm but the undercurrents are powerful and dangerous. If you go inside, you will be transported to the open sea much faster than you can swim.

These are the situations when people drown because they try to fight to current in their panic. Most likely, you will see a lot of people in the water already but please follow the rules and don’t be an idiot.

Oh and on a side note, don’t swim in the stretch of ocean in front of Curlees and Shiva Valley of Anjuna because I have personally seen people puking in that water after Anjuna’s crazy parties.

9) A tip about Goan Food

Do you love Indian food? You’re going to LOVE Goan food. However, keep in mind that the Goan curries are spicier than most of the Indian curries.

If you can’t handle spice, make sure you inform your restaurant staff to go easy on the chilies. I love spicy Goan food but San can’t handle the chili overdose.

10) How not to get ripped off

Shopping in Goa is fun because of the variety of things that you can buy. Lamps, incense sticks, swimsuits, clothes, jewelry, tea, spices, fruits – almost everything that you will possibly need will be available on the streets.

While grocery stores have fixed prices, street shop vendors will hike the price when they see that you’re not a local.

To avoid getting ripped off, you need to learn how to haggle like a pro. As a rule of thumb, cut the quoted price in half and then negotiate your way to a middle figure. Do not forget to smile when you do this.

If you find something unique at a high price, most likely it’s handmade, and maybe it’s worth the price, so just buy it.

11) Find the best parties in Goa

Ok, so you have heard that Goa is the birthplace of psychedelic trance and you want to experience a typical old-school Goa trance party. But how to find the best PsyTrance parties? Well, stay in the Vagator area and just follow the music. There is usually a party every night.

Ask around and you will find out. When you reach the party and if you ever get hungry, you will definitely find affordable snacks right outside the parties.

Outside every party are rows of Ammas (older mother-like women) with stoves selling cheese omelet buns, burgers, cigarettes, water, and tea. These Ammas usually know where is the next party so just ask them.

12) Be Safe in Goa

While Goa is safer than most of India and perhaps many parts of the world, it doesn’t hurt to take typical safety precautions. Trust your instincts and don’t accept drinks from strangers. When in doubt, head to the nearest shop and contact a local to seek help.

13) Respect the Culture, the Nature and Goa way of life

Yes, Goa is perhaps the most open-minded destination in India and the locals are liberal. But please don’t treat their home as your “nonstop party on the road” destination.

I don’t know why I’m even typing this but I feel it’s my responsibility to inform you that you should cover yourself a little more than what you do at the beach if you end up visiting any of the churches.

Please don’t leave your trash on the beach. If you find any, just pick it up and put it in the nearest dustbin. Oh and don’t forget that most of the shacks (beach bar and restaurants) are run by families and you should not expect a five-star service. Appreciate what you get and don’t forget to smile.

Enjoyed these Goa travel tips? Why not share with a friend? If you live in Goa or have visited it a few times, why don’t you add your own tip in the comments?

Pin to save the post for later

You may also like:

North Goa – Beaches and Beyond

Goa Flea Markets

Why I love Goa and Keep Going Back

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Thanks for the tips!!

I have a confirmed booking at ITC Fortune Select Regina, Candolim, Goa. Three Deluxe room for 3 days (13th Dec to 16 Dec ‘18). Price Rs 6500 per night stay(all inclusive price including breakfast). Anyone interested may contact me ( 9099022989). Actually it a group booking but 3 of our colleague are not joining due to last minute unavoidable reasons. It’s a 4 Star property at beautiful Candolim beach.

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Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a knack for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

Not sure where to start? Start with some of my most popular posts .

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Last Updated on September 19, 2023 by Drifter Planet

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How to Travel in Goa: A Comprehensive 101 Guide

Looking for an honest and authentic answer to How to Travel in Goa? If you’re dreaming of pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and an all-around tropical paradise, look no further than Goa, India. Nestled along the country’s southwestern coast, Goa is a haven for travelers of all types. Whether you’re a sunseeker, history buff, adventure enthusiast, or food lover, this coastal gem has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of traveling in Goa, ensuring you have the best possible experience.

Table of Content

Introduction to Goa

Discovering the pearl of the indian ocean.

Goa, India’s smallest state, packs a punch when it comes to tourist attractions. Known for its stunning 100-kilometer coastline along the Arabian Sea, Goa offers a harmonious blend of Portuguese and Indian heritage. This unique cultural fusion, combined with a relaxed atmosphere, lush landscapes, and a rich array of experiences, makes Goa a top destination for travelers.

When to Visit Goa

Finding the ideal season.

The best time to visit Goa largely depends on your preferences:

• Peak Season (October to January): This is the most popular time, with pleasant weather and clear skies, perfect for beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and outdoor activities. Festivals like Diwali and Christmas add to the vibrant atmosphere.
• Shoulder Season (February to May): While temperatures rise during these months, it’s a great time for budget-conscious travelers. Fewer crowds and better deals on accommodations make it appealing.
• Monsoon Season (June to September): Heavy rainfall occurs during the monsoon season, leading to occasional flooding and transportation disruptions. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the lush green landscapes, but beach activities are limited.

How to Reach Goa

Navigating your way to paradise.

Reaching Goa is straightforward, with multiple options:

• By Air: The Dabolim Airport (GOI) is Goa’s main airport, well-connected to major Indian cities and some international destinations.
• By Train: Two major railway stations, Madgaon (Margao) and Vasco da Gama, connect Goa to major cities through the scenic Konkan Railway.
• By Road: National Highways 66 and 4A connect Goa to nearby regions, making road travel a convenient option.

Accommodation in Goa

Where to stay in paradise.

Goa offers diverse accommodation options:

• Beachfront Resorts: Experience luxury at beachfront resorts, offering stunning views, private beaches, and world-class amenities.
• Boutique Hotels: Explore Goa’s charm through boutique hotels that provide a unique, personalized experience.
• Budget Guesthouses and Hostels: Budget-conscious travelers will find guesthouses and hostels, especially in popular areas like Anjuna and Vagator.
• Homestays and Airbnb: Immerse yourself in local culture by staying with Goan families or booking Airbnb accommodations.
• Camping: For an adventurous twist, some beaches offer camping options, like Palolem and Agonda.

It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons.

Getting Around Goa

Navigating the scenic routes.

Getting around Goa is easy:

• Renting a Scooter or Motorcycle: Popular among tourists, renting a scooter or motorcycle provides flexibility and is ideal for navigating narrow roads.
• Taxis and Auto-Rickshaws: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available and can take you to various parts of Goa, but always agree on fares beforehand.
• Bicycles: For leisurely exploration, rent bicycles to traverse local areas.
• Public Buses: Goa has a public bus network connecting towns and cities, although comfort and convenience may vary.
• Renting a Car: Groups and families may opt to rent cars for convenience.
• Boats and Ferries: In some areas, especially along rivers and backwaters, boats or ferries are necessary to reach specific destinations.

Stay tuned for the next part of “How to Travel in Goa” comprehensive guide, where we’ll delve into the top things to do in Goa, giving you insights into making the most of your visit to this tropical paradise.

Top things to do in goa, exploring paradise’s attractions.

Now that you’re well-acquainted with the basics of visiting Goa, let’s dive into the incredible experiences that await you:

Beach Hopping

Goa is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, each with its own character. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, water sports, or serene tranquility, you’ll find a beach that suits your taste.

• Baga Beach: A vibrant hub known for water sports, beach shacks, and a lively nightlife scene.
• Calangute Beach: The “Queen of Beaches,” Calangute offers a mix of water sports, shopping, and dining options.
• Anjuna Beach: Famous for its flea market, beachside parties, and the iconic Curlies Beach Shack.
• Palolem Beach: A serene, crescent-shaped beach surrounded by palm trees, perfect for relaxation.

Explore Old Goa’s Heritage

Step back in time and explore the rich heritage of Old Goa. Visit the historical churches and cathedrals that have earned UNESCO World Heritage status:

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Home to the remains of St. Francis Xavier, this basilica is an architectural marvel.
• Se Cathedral: The largest church in Asia, known for its Portuguese-Gothic architecture.
• St. Augustine Tower: The remnants of a 16th-century church with a towering structure that provides panoramic views of the surroundings.

Water Sports

For the adventure seekers, Goa offers a plethora of water sports to get your adrenaline pumping:

• Parasailing: Soar above the Arabian Sea for an exhilarating experience and panoramic views.
• Jet Skiing: Race across the water on a high-speed jet ski.
• Banana Boat Rides: Hold on tight as you ride the waves on an inflatable banana-shaped boat.
• Windsurfing: Master the art of combining surfing and sailing with this thrilling sport.

Visit Forts

Explore Goa’s historical forts, which offer not only a glimpse into the past but also panoramic views of the Arabian Sea:

• Aguada Fort: A well-preserved Portuguese fort overlooking the Arabian Sea, with a historic lighthouse.
• Chapora Fort: Known for its picturesque setting, made famous by the Bollywood movie “Dil Chahta Hai.”
• Terekhol Fort: Located on the northern tip of Goa, this fort offers stunning views of the Terekhol River and the Arabian Sea.

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Nature lovers can explore Goa’s rich biodiversity by visiting its wildlife sanctuaries and natural wonders:

• Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to diverse flora and fauna, with trekking trails and the Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
• Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary: Famous for its treetop watchtowers and the opportunity to spot wildlife like leopards and giant squirrels.
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Witness one of India’s tallest waterfalls, surrounded by lush green forests. Accessible by trekking or a thrilling jeep safari.

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

The Dudhsagar Waterfalls, located on the border of Goa and Karnataka, is a natural wonder you won’t want to miss. It’s one of India’s tallest waterfalls, cascading from a height of over 300 meters. The name “Dudhsagar” translates to “Sea of Milk,” and the waterfall’s white foamy appearance justifies its name, especially during the monsoon season when it’s at its most majestic.

To reach Dudhsagar, you can embark on a thrilling jeep safari or, for the more adventurous, undertake a trek through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. The trekking route offers breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding lush greenery. Don’t forget to take a dip in the cool, refreshing pool at the base of the falls.

• Spice Plantations: Goa’s spice plantations offer an opportunity to delve into the region’s aromatic world of spices, herbs, and traditional farming methods. A guided tour will take you through the lush plantations, where you can witness the cultivation of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper.

These tours often include spice tastings, where you can savor the flavors of fresh spices, and a traditional Goan lunch prepared with organic ingredients from the plantation. It’s a sensory experience that immerses you in Goa’s agricultural traditions.

• Yoga and Wellness Retreats: For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Goa offers numerous yoga and wellness retreats set against serene backdrops. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, you can participate in yoga and meditation sessions guided by experienced instructors.

These retreats often include holistic wellness treatments, Ayurvedic massages, and healthy, locally sourced meals. It’s a perfect way to unwind and achieve a state of inner peace amid the natural beauty of Goa.

Goa is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with an array of options for those seeking evening entertainment. The beach shacks, clubs, and beach parties come alive after the sun sets. Some of the hotspots to explore include:

• Tito’s Lane: Located in Baga Beach, it’s famous for its lively nightlife, with numerous clubs and bars.
• Curlies Beach Shack: Iconic for its beachfront location and electronic dance music parties that last late into the night.
• Shacks on Palolem Beach: Offering a more relaxed beach party vibe with bonfires and live music.

Art and Culture

To delve deeper into Goa’s rich cultural heritage, consider exploring its art scene, museums, and traditional performances:

• Museum of Goa: A contemporary art gallery showcasing the works of local and international artists.
• Art Galleries: Throughout Goa, you’ll find numerous art galleries featuring a variety of artistic styles.
• Traditional Performances: Attend traditional Goan performances, including folk dances and music, to immerse yourself in the local culture.

The diverse range of activities and experiences in Goa ensures that every traveler can create their ideal itinerary based on their interests and preferences. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, cultural exploration, or a mix of all three, Goa has it all.

Cuisine and Dining in Goa

Savoring the flavors of goa.

Goan cuisine is a delightful fusion of Indian and Portuguese flavors, showcasing an array of aromatic spices and fresh seafood. To truly experience the essence of Goa, be sure to try these delectable dishes:

Seafood Delights

Given Goa’s coastal location, seafood takes center stage in its cuisine. Sample these seafood specialties at beachside shacks and local restaurants:

• Fish Curry Rice: A quintessential Goan dish featuring spicy fish curry served with steamed rice.
• Prawn Balchao: Spicy prawn pickle that pairs perfectly with rice or bread.
• Crab Xec Xec: A crab curry cooked with roasted spices and coconut, known for its rich flavors.

No Goan culinary adventure is complete without trying Feni. This traditional spirit is crafted from cashew apples or coconut sap. It has a unique taste that’s both potent and distinctive. Sip on this local beverage to get a true taste of Goan culture.

For dessert, indulge in Bebinca, a layered pudding made from coconut milk, sugar, and eggs. Its rich, sweet flavor is the perfect way to conclude a Goan meal.

Xacuti is a flavorful curry made with chicken or vegetables. It’s known for its complex spice blend, which includes ingredients like poppy seeds, cloves, and nutmeg. The result is a rich and aromatic dish that’s a must-try for food enthusiasts.

Cafés and Bakeries

Goa’s café culture is thriving, offering a variety of delightful options for breakfast, brunch, and coffee. Don’t miss trying the following:

• Pork Vindaloo Pao: A spicy pork curry served with traditional Goan bread, Pao.
• Beef Sandwiches: Tuck into delicious beef sandwiches served in local bakeries.

Safety Tips for Traveling in Goa

Ensuring a secure visit.

While Goa is generally safe for travelers, it’s crucial to keep the following safety tips in mind:

• Swimming Safety: When swimming in the sea, especially during the monsoon season, be cautious of strong currents and always heed lifeguard warnings.
• Beware of Touts: Be wary of touts and scammers, especially in touristy areas. Negotiate fares with taxi drivers and vendors before beginning your journey.
• Stay Hydrated: The coastal climate can be dehydrating. Drink plenty of water and use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.
• Respect Local Customs: Goa is a diverse state with different communities and traditions. Show respect when visiting temples and religious sites by dressing modestly and following customs.
• Use Reputable Tour Operators: When booking tours or adventure activities, choose reputable operators with good safety records.

Embrace the Goa Experience

Goa, India, offers a myriad of experiences that cater to all types of travelers. From its beautiful beaches to its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, there’s something in Goa for everyone. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, this tropical paradise has it all.

By planning your trip carefully, respecting local culture and customs, and staying safe, you can make the most of your journey to Goa and create lasting memories in this enchanting destination.

Facts and Fun about Goa

While planning your trip to Goa, it’s not just about logistics and itineraries. Let’s add some fun and interesting facts about this coastal paradise to make your journey even more enjoyable:

Multilingual Goa

Goans are proficient in multiple languages. Besides Konkani, which is the state’s official language, many Goans speak English, Hindi, and Portuguese. This linguistic diversity makes it easier for travelers from different parts of the world to communicate.

A Land of Festivals

Goa is a land of festivals, and you can experience its vibrant culture year-round. From the colorful and joyous Carnival to the music-filled atmosphere of Sunburn Festival, there’s always something happening. Don’t miss out on the local celebrations and immerse yourself in the festivities.

Cashew Capital

Goa is renowned for its cashew nuts. The state produces a significant portion of India’s cashew crop, and you can find a variety of cashew-based products, from roasted cashews to cashew feni, a popular local spirit.

A Paradise for Wildlife Enthusiasts

Goa is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and exotic bird species. Birdwatching and wildlife safaris are popular activities in the state’s wildlife sanctuaries, providing ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts.

Unique Shacks on Palolem Beach

Palolem Beach is known for its unique beach shacks. These seasonal bamboo huts are set up by the locals every year and offer a rustic yet comfortable place to stay. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves right outside your door.

Yoga Capital

In addition to being a party hub, Goa is also known as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” You’ll find a multitude of yoga retreats and centers offering classes for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. It’s an excellent place to rejuvenate your mind and body.

The Mystery of the Floating Stone

In the village of Navelim, you can witness a phenomenon known as the “Floating Stone.” It’s said that a stone in the local temple mysteriously floats in water during a specific ritual. The scientific explanation remains a mystery, adding to the intrigue.

World’s Only Floating Casino

Goa is home to the world’s only floating casino, the Deltin Royale. It offers a unique gambling experience on the Mandovi River, complete with games, entertainment, and fine dining. Even if you’re not into gambling, a visit to this luxurious vessel can be an interesting experience.

Beaches for Turtles

Goa is not just for human tourists; it’s also a nesting ground for olive ridley sea turtles. Certain beaches, like Galgibaga and Agonda, are known for their efforts in turtle conservation. If you visit during the nesting season, you might have the chance to witness baby turtles making their way to the sea.

Shacks with Portuguese Flair

Goa’s cuisine is a reflection of its rich history, which includes Portuguese influence. Some beach shacks serve delightful Portuguese dishes, like pork vindaloo, xacuti, and bebinca. It’s a unique culinary experience that combines Indian and Portuguese flavors.

Haunted Tales of Three Kings Church

The Three Kings Church in Cansaulim, Goa, is famous not just for its stunning views but also for eerie tales of hauntings. Locals believe that the spirits of three kings who were killed by a jealous priest still roam the area. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, the church’s picturesque location is worth a visit.

Now that you’re armed with these intriguing facts, you’ll see Goa in a whole new light. It’s not just a destination; it’s a place with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty waiting to be explored.

Happy Travels! Love ♥

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7 Interesting Facts to Know Before You Plan A Trip to Goa

Travelling to Goa is on everyone’s bucket list. And why wouldn’t it be, right? Its slow, laidback life, long empty roads lined with paddy fields and quaint cafes and restaurants make the perfect vacation. You can plan a trip to Goa with friends or family and find something for everyone to do. Backwater kayaking , cycling in a Goan village, or taking a ferry to the Divar Island in Goa make it to everyone’s bucket list. That said, despite its fame and charm, some things about Goa, continue to surprise tourists. Did you know that not all Goans drink beer on the beach every day? Probably not, unless you have Goan friends. There are a lot of things you might not know if you don’t have Goan friends.

What's in the blog

As your friend in Goa, Soul Travelling put together this blog in case you are planning to travel to Goa for the first time. Keep reading to know some pretty interesting facts about travelling to Goa for the first time!

Goa does not have cab or autorickshaw apps

When you make a Goa travel plan, decide if you want to book a cab for sightseeing or rent your own scooter in Goa. While Goa does have cabs and autorickshaws, they are found only at certain locations which may not be accessible from your hotel. And no, Goa does not have Ola or Uber, yet. Private cabs can be heavy on the pocket if you are planning to travel to Goa on a budget. If you don’t mind taking a bus, the Margao-Panjim-Porvorim-Mapusa stretch is well-connected by regular Kadamba buses . Apart from these, private buses ferry locals through the smaller villages but these can be infrequent. That means if you are in Goa for say, a weekend, you might end up wasting your time waiting for buses. Ideally, when you are planning a Goa trip with friends or family (or solo), just make sure to ask your hotel about the options available for getting around. 

Goan architecture is not just Portuguese

Everyone wants to buy a Portuguese house in Goa , but nobody knows that Goan architecture is not all Portuguese. Look at the Portuguese-built houses in Bandra. Their architecture is completely different from Goan homes. This is because, despite the design influences, Goan homes and churches have been built by the local masons who’ve allowed their local craft to inspire newer layouts. Moreover, certain Portuguese architectural elements show Spanish and Arabian influences too. This intricate mix of cultures and colours makes Goan houses unique, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Goa has churches, temples, mosques, gurudwaras

When you plan a trip to Goa, you only think about visiting the churches. Yes, the churches are awesome but it’s a stereotype that Goa is just churches. However, if you look beyond the facade, Goan temples , Goa’s Islamic architecture and even gurudwaras are just as beautiful. Did you know that the Tambdi Surla temple in Goa is the last-standing pre-Portuguese era temple? Apart from that, there exists a gorgeous Namazgarh i.e. a Muslim praying hall, atop a hill. It was gifted to Prince Akbar II by Sambhaji and boasts Turkish, Indian and Portuguese architectural influences. So, if you’re someone who likes architecture and art, then don’t forget to check out Goa’s temples , mosques and other religious structures.

Goans love eating vegetarian food

Every tourist in Goa complains about how difficult it is to find vegetarian food in Goa . This fear stems from the common misconception that Goa is a primarily non-vegetarian state. Yes, Goa doesn’t have a lot of vegetarian options when it comes to street food. Yet, you’’ find some lip-smacking Goan vegetarian main courses that can give the seafood a run for its money. The Goan breakfast, for instance, is a lavish vegetarian spread of pao, sweet bun, tea, samosas, bhajis and a range of gravies to satiate your taste buds. Apart from that, you can try a range of Goan curries like khatkhatem , ambaade saansav and chonyacho ross , often prepared during festivals. Check out Tato’s, Cafe Bhonsle or Mum’s Kitchen to experience the best of Goan vegetarian food.

Not every Goan enjoys drinking alcohol

Soul Travelling was built to bust this one stereotype – that all Goans go to beaches and drink beers every day. This is not true at all. Goan mothers, like all mothers, have strict rules about regulating alcohol consumption. Even then, there is no denying that alcohol is a big part of Goan culture. For instance, you’ll find it being served at the Goan Christian weddings and the village elderly will meet at a taverna for a drink or two. You’ll find it creeping into Goa’s multimedia, such as the song ‘ Bebdo’ by Lorna which means ‘drunkard’. While the song became famous for its satirical wordings, it does highlight a serious issue that needs to be addressed. So yeah, Goans love an occasional drink. But no, they don’t drink every day. So if you plan a trip to Goa and ask a Goan what their favourite drink is, it could be beer, but it could also be chai, coconut water, kokum juice, mango aam panna, Niro or even sol kadhi.

Plan a trip to Goa beyond the beaches

Yes, the beaches are lovely. Goan beaches are even lovelier. But you know what’s just as amazing as a Goan beach? Goan waterfalls, Goan houses, Goan villages and Goan fields. During the monsoon season in Goa, trekking up to a waterfall through lush green forests is an exhilarating experience. You cross over streams, walk in the rain and after a tiring journey, you get rewarded with a cascading waterfall. It can’t get better than this! If you’re not a big fan of trekking, spend a day boating through Goa’s mangroves, hunting for natural pools and mud baths in paddy fields and catching the best sunsets along the way. The thrill of a new adventure cannot be compared! The next time you make a Goa travel plan, consider adding these to your itinerary too! If you don’t know where to start, book an offbeat Goa experience with Soul Travelling!

Goa’s indigenous people were tribals (and fishermen, farmers, toddy tappers and so on)

Goa’s original settlers are its tribals who belong to the Kunbi, Gawda, Dhangar and Velip communities. They have unique and diverse lifestyles that are unlike the rest of Goa. Most of them continue to live in small communities closer to the forests along the east. Their lives are more in sync with nature following traditions that promote slow, sustainable and mindful living. You won’t see any nightclubs or high-end restaurants in Goa’s hinterlands . These quiet corners of the state tell a different story that makes you see Goa in a new light – one where life isn’t all about beaches and booze. Would you be interested in exploring that?

Are you ready to plan a trip to Goa?

Goa is a famous tourist destination. Everyone wants to go to Goa and explore the exotic tropical vacation it promises. Yet, not everyone knows that Goa has so many unexplored sides, like the motorcycle pilot who’s like a cab driver, but drives a motorcycle instead of a cab. You’ve surely tasted a perad , right? Well if you haven’t, the next time you make a Goa travel plan, consider getting to know India’s favourite vacation destination. Its stories won’t fail to surprise you!

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• An Absolute Post-Covid Travel Guide To Goa: Updated Goa Tourism Guidelines In 2024

23 Mar 2023

If the most dreamed-of holiday in India had a name, it would probably sound a lot like Goa. From clear water beaches with exotic activities and themed events, and a vibrant mix of modern and traditional culture, Goa is as close to a dream paradise as you get. An ancient Portuguese colony, it boasts a historic charm, and offers many adventure sports, unwinding, and a dose of delicious Goan food. Since the declaration of a national lockdown in March, Goa has been one of the most anticipated destinations that travelers couldn’t wait to visit, a feeling most of us share. Goa tourism guidelines has been released by the state tourism ministry to ensure the safety of travelers as well as local residents. 

Read the detailed post-Covid travel guide to Goa below for your post-pandemic travel planning.

Goa Travel Advisory During Covid-19

Are you looking for quarantine rules in Goa ? The state of Goa is inviting more travelers by opening up its tourism industry slowly but the key priority is the safety and wellbeing of both the travelers and the residents. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that as a part of Unlock 4.0, they have removed the mandate to carry a negative Covid-19 test but all the other restrictions such as compulsory face mask, social distancing, and sanitization of public places are still in place. Here’s a list of some of the other important Covid-19 guidelines issued by the state of Goa that travelers must follow:

• The passenger must have completed both the dosages of vaccination.
• All the visitors must have the Aarogya Setu App downloaded with an updated status of ‘Safe’.
• All domestic and incoming travellers must undergo thermal screening.
• Symptomic travellers will need to take a PCR test and stay in isolation if needed.
• Casinos, cinema halls, schools, colleges, weekly markets, as well as shops are now open and running.
• Beach shacks are open for serving customers with full capacity.
• The Baga-Calangute beach belt is open for travelers.
• Air transportation remains open for domestic flights to and from Goa.
• Domestic buses are operating on normal routes but with a full capacity.

Must Read: 18 Things To do In Goa In December For A Happening Vacation

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Goa is from November to April when the weather is ideal for relaxing on the popular beaches and the temperature averages between 20 to 30 degrees celsius.

How to Reach

The Goa state government has removed all travel restrictions to allow the influx of tourists from all parts of India. The authorities have also introduced rules for travelling to Goa and also charge a fine for those who are not wearing their mask during commute/entering the border. The passengers will be photographed and fined for their actions.

• Travelers can take a flight from the closest airport to The Dabolim Airport or Goa International Airport to reach Goa.
• Trains are operating regularly to Goa and you must check the availability on the IRCTC website before booking.
• If you are planning to travel by road, you can hire a car or drive yourself from the state border to your accommodation.

Suggested Read: 9 Best Islands Of Goa For An Offbeat Trip To India’s Favorite Beach Town

Getting Around

There are multiple modes of transportation available for travelers who want to go around Goa. You can rent a bike from travel dealers for an affordable price, hire auto-rickshaws, take private cabs for a more comfortable journey and also travel by ferry. Make sure that you follow all the Goa tourism rules carefully for a safer travel experience.

The following are the locations where ferry services are available. Please note that some of them may not be functional yet due to the pandemic.

• Betim to Panaji
• Old Goa to Divar Island
• Querim to Tiracolor
• Cavelossim to Assolna

Places To Visit In Goa During Covid-19

With countless beaches, seamless crystal blue waters, and mesmerizing local suburbs that exudes culture, Goa offers many delights to those willing to explore. Ever heard that “big things come in small packages?” This axiom certainly fits best to Goa, a land of limitless possibilities and a soothing escape for travelers.

As Goa has reopened, the way we approach travel might have changed but the beauty of the places remains the same. If you are planning to make a trip, make sure you don’t miss out on Palolem Beach, Baga Beach, Panaji, Goa Velha, and Calangute.

Suggested Read: 9 Hotels In Goa That Offer World-Class Facilities To The Guests And Travelers!

Things To Do In Goa During Covid-19

With soft sand, clear water, and enjoying beachside conversations with your friends and family, Goa is an absolute favorite destination for autumn and winter travelers. If you are looking for reasons to trade snow with sand, there are many things to do in Goa like Cafe hopping, water sports, Goan food tour, night bazaars, and more.

While participating in organized events like water sports or food tours, safety is the most important factor to keep in mind. As businesses are opening, the state is taking all the precautions to make sure that the travelers are safe when they experience Goa. As a traveler, you can check with your concerned facility and ask for Goa tourism rules , safety gear, and more before your departure.

Accommodation

The state of Goa has removed all the travel restrictions imposed during the lockdown and travelers no longer need to book a stay in advance. From short stays to week-long vacations, you can enjoy your time in Goa by choosing to stay at some of the most amazing hotels and Airbnbs. All hotels are now following the Goa travel rules mentioned by the authorities after reopening which includes a deep sanitization process during and after every guest, limited capacity of beds, closure of community areas like pools and gyms, and contact tracing.

Here is a list of measures that the state of Goa has for the hotel industry:

• Temperature screening at hotels
• Sanitizer availability at the hotel and inside all the rooms
• Disposable gloves mandatory for hotel staff at bar and restaurant
• Contact tracing forms at every hotel

Suggested Read: Canyoning In Goa: Experience An Adrenaline Rush Like Never Before!

Restaurants

The hospitality industry in Goa is reopening but the safety of the travelers and staff remains a key priority. While some of the most popular street food outlets and restaurants in Goa are back to normal functioning with a limited capacity, many of the food outlets have moved to delivery-only or takeaway facilities. Food franchises are also operational and open for customers with social distance seating and disposable cutlery to avoid any transmission.

What To Pack

A post-Covid trip to Goa calls for a smart packing list that would accommodate all your belongings and save space for safety essentials like an extra bottle of sanitizer or a PPE kit. Here’s Travel Triangle’s comprehensive list of things to pack:

• Clothing for moderate weather and two beach-friendly outfits
• A pack of disposable face masks or 2-3 reusable face masks
• Sanitizer for personal use
• Sanitizing solution for outdoor/surface use
• A personal PPE kit that will include a face shield, sanitizer sachets, and a pair of disposable glove for flight, train, or any kind of commute
• Slippers, hats, sunscreen, and other beach essentials that you may need

Suggested Read: 13 Excellent Places To Visit In Goa In July For A Soothing Vacay

Travel Checklist

• Book your travel and accommodation in advance.
• Talk with your hotel/Airbnb about their sanitizing facilities and the Covid-19 related precautions they are taking.
• Download the Arogya Setu app on your mobile phone.
• Try to get tested before your travel and keep the Covid-19 negative certificate handy during your commute.

Further Travel Tips

• When at the beach or visiting an attraction, make sure you follow the safety marks on the floor or walls of the place for social distancing.
• If you are using the ferry services, make sure they are not overcrowded.
• People over the age of 65 or children under the age of 10 are advised not to undertake non-essential travel.

Further Read: 6 Picnic Spots Near Goa That Are Epitome Of Art And Culture!

As we slowly recover from this pandemic, safety must remain our primary concern while traveling. This post-Covid travel guide to Goa is your one-stop solution for trip planning and itinerary. If you are looking for something more than a post-Covid travel guide to Goa , let us help you put together your dream Goan trip with our customized packages.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist, or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Goa open for tourists?

Yes, the state of Goa is currently open for domestic tourists and travelers from all parts of the country. As per the Unlock 5 guidelines announced by the government, travelers no longer need to show a Covid-19 test or book accommodation in advance. You can easily travel from your home state by just undergoing a temperature check at entry points.

Is it safe to travel to Goa during the Coronavirus pandemic?

Yes, it is safe to travel to Goa only if you are traveling in a small group while following the state-issued advisory. As experts are warning to be cautious against the spread of the virus in cold weather, here are some precautions you must follow if you travel: When going outside, in public transport, or visiting tourist attractions, wear a suitable and fitted face mask that covers your nose and mouth. Always carry hand sanitizer with you and check with your hotel if they are providing you with regular sanitation facilities. Avoid touching any unsanitary surfaces and keep a pack of disposable gloves handy if needed. Avoid going to crowded places and if you are planning to visit any temples or marketplaces, make sure you maintain social distancing.

Are the casinos in Goa open for tourists?

Yes, you can try your luck in some of the most popular casinos in Goa from November 1st, 2020. All the establishments are ordered to operate at 50% capacity and follow the state government protocol thoroughly to ensure the safety of the visitors and staff.

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26 Goa Travel Tips: Important Must-Knows for Your Goa Trip

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.

Travelling to Goa soon? In this post, I am going to share with you the Goa travel tips that you absolutely need to know before you travel to Goa.

The tips are in random order but comprehensively cover everything you need to know about

• Commuting within Goa
• Renting a car or a scooter in Goa
• Shopping in Goa
• Drinking and eating in Goa
• Planning your Goa itinerary
• and many more aspects associated to Goa travel

All the tips contain detailed insights based on my 20+ trips to Goa. So if you want your trip to be magical but not challenging and fun but not frustrating, make sure you read the article thoroughly!

(You can thank me later… I will tell you how!)

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Goa Travel Tips: Everything you need to know before your Goa trip

1. book your taxi at the airport prepaid counter or using the goamiles app.

As soon as you exit Goa airport, you will notice hundreds of pick-up placards and dozens of cab drivers calling you out.

Don’t pick the first driver who approaches you as he will definitely take overcharge you.

Instead, choose one of the options below:

• Book a prepaid taxi from the prepaid taxi counter just before you exit the Goa airport. Expect to wait for about 10-15 minutes for your prepaid taxi to arrive. The benefit of booking a prepaid taxi is that the charges are fixed and you don’t have to worry about getting ripped.
• Download the Goamiles app on your phone and book a cab once you’re ready to exit. Goamiles is a Government app that lets you book a cab online the same way in which you would book an Uber. The rates are usually much cheaper than local drivers and at times even cheaper than the prepaid counter. The only caveat – you may have to wait for a cab to be available for booking.
• Prebook your cab online – this option would be a bit expensive but it would ensure that you have a cab ready the moment you’re ready to leave from the airport. In any case, this option often works out cheaper than booking an airport pick up from your hotel (Especially if you’re staying in 4+ star property)

See airport pick up options here

2. Carry your ID cards for renting a vehicle

To rent a vehicle in Goa, you need the following ID cards

• two Government issued ID card and
• a valid driving license

Also a practice that I find rather annoying is that of depositing your ID card like your PAN, Aadhar Card or Passport with the bike rental shop for the duration of your rental.

So it would be prudent to carry two Government ID cards – one to be kept as a deposit and the other to show at bars and clubs requiring age verification.

Make sure you get a written acknowledgment of the deposit of your Government ID card to avoid issues later.

3. Understand how huge Goa is

Many people who have never visited Goa imagine it to be like any other tourist destination in India – i.e. they believe it to be a small town or a city.

But what you must remember is that Goa is a state. Even though it is one of the smallest states in India, it is still much bigger than a regular tourist town in India.

In fact, the vertical length of Goa is approximately 105 kilometres and its approximate width is 60 kilometres.

Thus, you can never ‘cover’ all of Goa in one trip. You will have to mostly cover only a small part of Goa in one trip or divide your time in Goa wisely between North and South Goa to make the most of your trip.

As a first-timer in Goa trying to visit major tourist attraction, understand that you will spend a considerable amount of time commuting between places.

In my digital travel plan Goa: Planned for You , I have created a full itinerary to cut down your trip planning process.

All you have to do is follow it!

Goa: Planned for You

A handy digital travel plan that includes

• Specially curated stay recommendations
• restaurant suggestions
• a day-wise break-up of things to do
• a fully interactive Goa map
• special insights and lots more!

4. Rent a two-wheeler to make the most of your trip

Given how huge Goa is, the best way to cut down on time spent travelling is by renting a two-wheeler.

Two-wheelers are perfect

• for riding through the narrow interior roads of Goa
• for avoiding traffic jams in main cities like Panjim or Madgaon
• to cut down overall costs as a typical per day scooter rental only costs INR 400 and petrol in Goa is also much cheaper than most Indian states.

The roads in Goa are also in good condition for most parts of the year.

The only time when riding a scooter won’t be a convenient option is during monsoons.

Foreigners not used to riding in India can safely initiate themselves in Goa as there is hardly any traffic in the internal roads in Goa. Once you build confidence, you can then venture on the highways and in main cities.

You can also get fancier, bigger bikes on rent. Expect to pay a higher rent for these.

I personally prefer a scooter over a bike for its storage space.

5. Practice caution when getting a vehicle on rent

It is very common for tourists to take a two-wheeler or a four-wheeler on rent when in Goa.

But to avoid getting in any kind of rental troubles later, check the following

• the condition of the vehicle you are taking on rent. It is advisable to take a good-quality video recording of the vehicle you plan to take on rent before you make a payment in respect of the same. Make sure you capture all dents, scratches and damages to the vehicle.
• the vehicle you’re taking on rent is a tourist vehicle i.e. one with a yellow number plate. White number plates are private vehicles and you will be penalized for taking those on rent.
• The quantity of petrol in the tank. Most vehicles will only come with just about enough petrol to take you to the nearest petrol pump.

6. Check reviews on multiple platforms before you book your hotel

Goa is one of the prime most tourist destinations in India. As a result, there is cut throat competition amongst hotels, hostels and homestays.

To lure customers into booking the hotel, a few hotels have been known

• to put false photos on websites or
• put photos of superior rooms only or
• put super edited photos

Tourists have faced difficulties on account of such scammy behavior.

To avoid getting into such situations, please

• check tourist photos of a hotel
• read reviews across multiple booking platforms
• book a hotel recommended to you by an expert or someone who has stayed at the property in the recent past.

I faced a similar issue on one of my trips when I booked a highly-rated hotel only to find multiple cockroaches in my room. It was a horror!

After that, I have exercised tremendous caution when booking hotels in Goa. To avoid getting into trouble, I book all my stays in Goa using Booking.com which allows free cancellation.

7. Book a taxi outside your hotel

Booking a taxi for sightseeing or for pick up and drops to the nearest station often proves to be much more expensive.

This is because hotels are not allowed to hire their own drivers.

Most hotels use the services of local taxi drivers from their area and thus charge a surcharge or extra commission to you.

To save money, directly approach a taxi driver waiting outside your hotel.

The only minor inconvenience caused to you is that you will have to carry your luggage outside as the taxi driver that you’ve booked directly won’t be allowed entry inside the hotel premises.

(As ridiculous as this may sound, that’s exactly how Goa works!)

8. Be prepared for massive crowds in touristy Goa

Many a times when people read that some areas in Goa are crowded, they don’t fathom the degree.

So let me help you get an idea.

The tourist side of Goa i.e. areas between Candolim and Vagator are massively crowded.

• Thousands of tourists throng the beaches in this area at any given point in time.
• Most of the restaurants are full and you will need to wait to get a place.
• Every inch of party clubs is packed with people

If you are someone who absolutely can’t stand such massive crowds, please avoid visiting touristy areas on weekends (in particular long weekends).

The crowds in touristy Goa recedes considerably on weekdays.

9. Bargain hard everywhere

Like all tourist destinations, if you want to maximise the return on your buck, bargain hard.

Don’t hestitate to bargain at

• flea markets
• street shops
• vehicle rentals
• tourist taxis
• tour operators
• watersport vendors

Put your shameless haggle pants on and start negotiating from at least 60% of the price quoted and then go upwards.

Probably the only places where you won’t be allowed to bargain is at cafés and restaurants.

10. Pack light and shop locally

As I have stated in my (soon to be published) article on what to pack for a trip to Goa , it’s is best to pack light for a Goa trip.

You can find lots of shops selling clothes, swimwear, sarongs, jewellery, hats and other accessories near all beach and tourist areas.

Plus, all the areas have

• grocery stores
• medical shops and
• liquor shops

So it is best to buy stuff that you need on reaching Goa and pack as lightly as possible.

This saves space in your luggage as well as proves to be economic especially for longer stays in Goa.

Don’t plan a hectic trip (you’ll miss the real beauty of Goa)

11. Skip tourist attractions that don’t interest you

Let me be honest with you-

As much as I recommend visiting the tourist places in Goa, in my opinion, they hardly encapsulate the essence of visiting Goa.

The essence of Goa lies in experiencing

• a laid-back way of living
• a live and let live way policy where there is a lot more social acceptance to practices otherwise frowned upon in the country like drinking, partying, dressing less conservatively, etc.

Unfortunately, a mere visit to a tourist attraction hardly let’s us experience this beauty of Goa.

Therefore, if visiting churches, museums or forts doesn’t interest you, it’s okay to leave those places out of your itinerary.

12. Explore as many offbeat places as possible

Goan tourism has grown extremely commercial over the years. This has resulted in slow damage and loss of charm of prime tourist attractions like

• Fort Aguada
• Chapora Fort
• Old Goan Churches
• Calangute and Baga beaches

To enhance the quality of your visit, include as many offbeat locations in your itinerary as possible.

Some recommendations are

• Tambdi Surla temple
• Bondla Wildlife sanctuary
• Mahavir Wildlife sanctuary
• Less touristy beaches like Cola beach, Patnem beach, Talpona beach, Betalbatim beach etc.

13. Try out street food and local bakeries

While Instagrammers may be populating your feed with the trendiest restaurants and cafés all around Goa, the real magic lies in its local street food and bakeries.

Local street food and bakeries in Goa offer absolutely delicious yet inexpensive food.

For breakfast, eating freshly baked food at a bakery feels much more satiating than eating at a fancy eatery.

For main meals too, you can safely rely on streed food joints that serve Poi, Ros Omelette, Xacuti, Goan Chilly Chicken, Samosas, Bhaje and Patal Bhaji and Wada. The food is super filling and hardly puts a dent in your pocket.

The food sold here is also classic Goan food that you won’t get to taste in other bigger food joints.

14. Be ready for food overdose

When in Goa… you eeeaaaaaat!

It’s so difficult to limit your portion sizes thanks to the sheer variety of delicious food that surrounds you.

From seafood specialities to a fish thali to continental cuisine to baked goods, it is safe to label Goa as a foodie’s paradise.

The intake of main meals is further loaded with occasional drinks, juices, finger foods, coffees and desserts.

So, in short, be ready for some calorie overload.

15. Don’t accept random stuff from strangers

The consumption and distribution of drugs is a serious legal offence in India. The law prescribes a very harsh punishment that includes rigorous imprisonment for the same.

Yet, cases of illegal distribution and consumption of drugs repeatedly come to light as Goa police cracks down on offenders.

Don’t accidentally fall prey to such crimes.

• Accepting anything from strangers
• Visiting a stranger’s room
• Attending parties hosted by people you don’t know

16. Don’t be tempted to drink irresponsibly

Alcohol is available all across Goa. From liquor shops, to restaurants to beach shacks, you can find liquor easily.

But don’t be tempted to drink irresponsibly.

• you aren’t drinking and driving
• you have made arrangements of being dropped back to your accommodation if you are planning to get drunk at a late night party.

17. Beware of common scams

Like every major tourist destination in the world, Goa has its share of scamsters looking for innocent tourist preys.

Here are a few common scams

• Owner of the vehicle secretly damaging the vehicle rented to you to stake a claim at the deposit.
• Selling you a boat ride promising a certain distance or time and then finishing it off much sooner
• Guaranteeing a dolphin watching experience when in fact there is hardly any likelihood of dolphin spotting
• Paying for a permanent tattoo and it getting washed away in a few days
• Showing high-quality cashews from the window of a packet but the rest of the packet being filled with spoilt cashews.
• Claiming to sell top-quality spices and tea to foreigners which then turn out to be fake or of extremely low quality
• A friendly-stranger chatting with you and singing songs with you at the beach and then forcing you to pay for his performance

On top of this, there are many scams where people looking to engage in illegal activities like drugs and prostitution are duped. But the only way to protect yourself from such scams is by not indulging in any activity that’s illegal as per the laws of the land.

18. Don’t travel with a pocket full of cash

I think in today’s age of technological advancement, not travelling with a pocket full of cash should be a no-brainer.

Why attract the risk of being robbed when you could be transacting digitally, right?

So to avoid being pickpocketed or robbed in Goan tourist areas, don’t walk around with a loaded pocket.

There are plenty of ATMs in all tourist areas. Most commercial establishments also accept digital payments and cards.

19. Embrace slowness

Goa takes the meaning of ‘slow’ to a whole other level.

People in Goa don’t hustle and that’s evident from

• shops and restaurants remaining shut in the afternoons (Don’t worry, beachside shacks and popular joints remain open)
• shopkeepers taking their own sweet time to get you what you need
• Taxi drivers and autorickshaw drivers driving at their own pace (i.e. slowly)
• Dispensaries and offices opening by 10 am and shutting down before 6 pm + take an afternoon break.
• Restaurants and cafés taking time to serve you your food

You will also notice the laidback attitude in all walks of life.

You will rarely find rickshaws queueing up at railway stations or airports early in the morning, in the afternoon or after sunset.

If you have a flight or a train to catch at odd hours, please book your commute in advance.

Finding someone on the streets at odd hours is nearly impossible.

Basically, if you want something done fast or need some urgent assistance, you are in the wrong region.

The only way to cope with this slowness of lifestyle is by embracing it and planning around it.

20. Protect your skin

I have written extensively about the damage sunrays can cause you in Goa in my article on what to pack for a trip to Goa.

I have learned the hard way by getting my skin burnt to the point of the sunburnt skin flaking and peeling off. But you can learn from my mistakes.

Please do the following to protect yourself from the harsh sun

• use an SPF-50 sunscreen like this one
• wear good sunglasses (avoid buying the cheap ones you get at local street-side shops)
• wear a hat or a cap (buy locally – good variety at affordable pricing)
• drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
• avoid direct sunlight in outdoor areas in the afternoon
• wear comfortable, light cotton clothing

Likewise, expect mosquitoes and small insects in many budget rooms and beachside accommodations. Carry a good skin cream and mosquito repellant to protect yourself.

21. Choose to stay longer

As I told you earlier, Goa is not another tourist town.

It’s an entire state and the only way to do justice to it is by

• planning a long trip to Goa
• planning multiple trips to Goa where you explore different sides of Goa everytime

Doing this will get you closer to the beauty of Goa, make you understand its culture and its way of life.

A rushed trip to Goa that covers tourist places and leaves no extra time is the worst way of exploring Goa.

22. Buy drinks from a liquor shop

I have let you in on this trick in my article on 12 useful ways to visit Goa on a budget . But let me quickly summarise it for you here-

Alcohol is cheaper in Goa but only if you buy it at a local liquor shop.

Popular restaurants and pubs serve alcohol at rates comparable with major Indian cities. Drinking here will cause a hole in your pocket.

So be smart and buy drinks from a liquor shop and enjoy it with your friends and family at your hotel or hostel.

23. Opt for street-side shops to buy clothing (instead of flea markets)

Goan flea markets are truly one of a kind. They are weekly and have a certain attractive vibe to it. The most famous flea markets in Goa are

• Anjuna flea market (Wednesday only)
• Night Bazaar at Vagator (Friday only)
• Saturday Night Market at Arpora (closed following the pandemic, could reopen shortly)

While these places sell some truly exquisite clothing and jewellery items, I think that they don’t justify their once a week tease.

Most of the clothes sold at these markets are found in street-side shops (Especially in the everyday market that sits near Anjuna). Buying at street-side shops proves to be beneficial for two main reasons

• it’s often much cheaper
• damaged items are easier to replace or return as the shop is available on all days and not just once a week.

Plus, you also save on the entry fee charged by some flea markets by shopping from local street-side vendors instead.

24. Dress modestly at temples and churches

Just because Goan dressing standards are not as orthodox as many other places in India does not mean that you are allowed to disrespect local culture.

Goa is home to some of the most beautiful and religiously symbollic temples and churches.

Do not enter these religious institutions skimpily dressed.

Avoid wearing sleeveless clothing, deep neck tops or clothing that’s above your knees.

25. Save maps offline

Goa, in general, enjoys excellent network coverage. But there are still a few regions where you won’t get any connectivity. These areas include

• some routes leading to Cabo de Rama
• Cola beach and nearby areas
• portions on the highway near Uttorda and Majorda
• approach road towards Dudhsagar falls.

If you are using Google Maps or Maps to navigate, you may risk getting stuck in such regions.

Always save maps offline when covering major distances by road.

26. Wear night driving glasses for riding on Goan roads at night

Riding a two-wheeler in Goa is a fun experience, except at night. At night, when you ride from one place to another you will notice a number of small flying insects. (I wish I knew the name of these insects). My husband was troubled by these insects as they would enter his eye and make riding extremely difficult.

This problem is particularly faced on the highway connecting North Goa to South Goa.

Wear night driving glasses to beat this issue.

Final Thoughts

I have tried to pour all my experience of travelling to Goa in a long helpful listicle. I am sure you found it helpful. Is there something you would like to add? If yes, please leave a comment down below.

Travelling to Goa soon? Read my other articles on Goa:

• 17 best areas to stay in Goa: A comprehensive guide – read article
• 46 kickass things to do in Goa: An ultimate guide – read article
• The best places to visit in North Goa: A 3-day guide – read article
• The Ultimate 5-day Goa itinerary – read article
• How many days are enough in Goa – read article

In my readymade digital Goa travel plan, I recommend where to stay, where to eat and what to do to suit your travel style . Check it out here .

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.

Save for later!

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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Goa Solo Trip Budget – How to Spend an Astounding 1 Month Below 11K?

Utilizing a month in GOA alone is like spending time on the shore. It will be going to move away immediately.

But, simultaneously, completing a month in Goa for 11,000 Rupees (144 US $ approx.) will make things exciting. This Goa solo trip budget guide is everything you require to read & understand. How did I do? & How you can do it too.

People come to Goa from worldwide and spend more than a month. During my visit to the Konkan region, I came across foreign people who spent months in Goa.

Consuming more than a month in Goa doesn’t mean that the people are madly rich and lazy low on the beaches.

The people who are thinking of sojourning longer hunt for a side hustle. That can pay off their regular Goa expenses .

Suppose you took a break off from your routine & just required to spend time in peace. Then, Goa won’t disappoint you. Let me tell you something immediately at the start. You will have to cross the routes of patience and sacrifice.

Underneath will be a budget for long-time travelers. You can even explore by following the Goa Itinerary for 3 Days .

Are you ready to kick start an astonishing adventure?

Table of Contents

How to Manage Your Goa Solo Trip Budget Below 11k for 1 Month?

If your inquiry directly is – What is the Goa Solo trip budget?

Mainly, you need to decide – What type of traveler you are?

• Luxury Budget Traveler – If you are a complete pleasure level traveler,  for e.x  – Whatever happens, I will stay on the beachside Villa in Goa, kind of a traveler.
• Adjusting Budget Traveler – If you are adapting according to the situation traveler,  for e.x –  No problem, we will travel on the local buses in Goa, kind of a traveler.

If you’ll ask me –

I am very adaptable & strict about my budget. I always try to create various opportunities for myself to save a little.

If the circumstance arises, I am even ready to directly skip my breakfast to eat brunch (breakfast + lunch).

So, if you’re an Adjusting sort of budget traveler, on that note, your Goa Solo trip budget will be remarkable.

Below are the pointers which had helped me, and I will be helping you to achieve your Goa trip budget goal as well –

1. Onwards – Backwards Journey

The preparation to Spend One Exciting Month in Goa under Rs.11,000 starts before departure. Your purpose should be to travel to Goa by train unless you have a coupon that offers a great discount by air.

You can choose Rajdhani Express and other trains which take more time & cost less. Remember, the motive of the article is to minimize the Goa trip budget.

The trains, such as Goa Sampark Kranti Express and Mangala Lakshwadeep Express, cost less but take more time.

The article will concentrate on 1 Month of exploration, and I believe that time will not be a problem. Moreover, the sleeper coach will cost you under Rs.1000; for 3A, it’s beneath Rs. 2000.

Note –  The train seats get reserved quickly. Therefore, it’s advisable to book as early as feasible.

It would be be st if you sacr ificed your pleasure of traveling by air in exchange for traveling by train.

I assume that the onward and backward Journey will be a different experience. 

2. Staying in Goa within a Budget

Several hostels in Goa start as low as Rs. 200/250 per Day if you have chosen a hostel to stay in Goa.

Let’s assume Rs.200 per night hostel stay & that in the end compiles Rs.6000 (Rs.200 x 30 days) for a month.

It would be best if you thought that your 80% budget for the Goa trip in the low budget had been consumed in  onward –   backward Journey + Stay for a month. So then , how it’s possible to end up under Rs.11,000?

Now, here comes the role of finding opportunities that match your Interest level & skills.

Suppose you have an interest in :

• Handling Social Media
• Photography
• Web Designing
• Story Telling

The list goes on !

You can search for volunteering opportunities in a hostel/hotel/NGO in Goa.

Does that Sound Fascinating ?

Who doesn’t want to explore Goa for a prolonged time +? It wouldn’t cost you much.

There are online websites to find volunteering opportunities in Goa and everywhere in exchange for the skills.

That will be a money saver of the overall Goa trip budget because, in exchange for your skills, the hostel/hotel/NGO will provide you with a stay with them.

I Volunteered in Goa and stayed for 30 Days.

Things to Enquire Before Starting Volunteering Work

• You must check the property thoroughly that you are becoming a part of.
• You must check what you’ll need to do & in exchange, what will be provided to you as a benefit in business .
• The no. of hours you will be Volunteering per Day. And the no. of days that you’ll be doing.

The Volunteering work acts as a helping hand for the property.

That can also be a perfect way to experience the culture & traditions apart from traveling to Goa for a month.

3. Travel Using Goa Local Transport

Goa Local transport is affordable & convenient for visitors to see around.

You’ll need to sacrifice the rented scooter/bike & should have to wait patiently for the Goa local buses to arrive.

I have stated above that Sacrifice and Patience will examine you if you want to conclude the Goa trip budget beneath Rs.11,000 for a month.

The rented scooter in Goa will cost you around Rs everywhere. 200-300 per Day + Petrol cost. On the other hand, the bus charges a minimum of Rs.20-30 to reach a particular place.

If you traveled using the local bus transport daily, your per-day bus expenses would not exceed your Goa budget trip. Also, during a month in Goa, you won’t be going out all the time and every Day. Hence, you must pay for the rented scooter/bike daily.

Using Goa’s local bus service , you can commute to almost everywhere in Goa & that too affordably.

If you are traveling for the first time in Goa Then, you will easily be fascinated by low-cost rental vehicles.

You can also take lifts on the roadside.

You will find a lot of foreigners & they are helpful if you need a lift. So sometimes you’ll get help as needed, and often you won’t.

Just don’t worry! Haha

You can decide to walk, but you will hardly spot anyone walking around. That will be your hard time moving alone in the heat.

But you can do one thing, which I have also done. Plugin your earphones and keep walking. If you find someone who can give you help, take it, and if not, keep moving.

4. Food to Eat in Goa

Let’s recall point two a little if you had chosen to Volunteer at a property. They will be going to provide you with a stay and food.

So, the food problem is solved.

When the Volunteering place, going to provide you with a stay only. Then, it would help if you ate from the local eateries in Goa.

Most of the local establishments which I had seen offer only two things on the menu –

That can satisfy your stomach, and you’ll get to sense the local food of Goa. Moreover, you can have your entire Day’s food in the Goa local eateries for under Rs. 200 – 250 per Day. Food is essential to your trip anywhere, and what’s better than saving a few bucks on food in Goa ?

You can even have a Samosa Pav in the evening or at night. It will be light, and you will feel solid and connected to the unique local Goa combination of food.

I got addicted to the Samosa Pav and ate two in the morning and two in the evening.

The Samosa Pav had become my routine towards the end of the month. The Samosa Pav will cost you around Rs.20 (I can’t tell if the rates increased), which will be effective.

I want that you should experience the Goa culture. Food is an essential element that describes a culture.

It will be enough for your one-time meal if you eat a Veg Thali/Fish Thali.

Rest depends upon your capacity and stamina.

5. Cheat Day

For once in 10 days, you can cheat all the above points.

e.x- You can eat in restaurants around the beaches or anywhere else.

3 Cheat days in a month are acceptable, but beyond that will surpass your Goa Solo Trip Budget.

6. Choosing the Most Convenient Time for a Day-Out

Try to move out to explore in the evening because it would become pleasing and relaxing. Even you will feel comfortable when you choose to walk around.

Assume you had chosen to go out on a hot sunny day, then it’s clear that your stamina will give up quickly.

7. Showing Your Skills on the Beaches of Goa

Goa beaches attract crowds from all over the world. But don’t forget the happening environment that people create on the beaches.

Most tourists come along the seashore and show their skills. For example, they made a seashell, handmade eatables, or a foot massage service. Everyone will be involved in some activity in the evening on the beaches. That acts as the best way to stay longer in Goa.

Suppose you want to do something related but don’t know what to do! Just go there and see what everyone is doing and what value you can add to other experiences.

The beaches like Arambol & Morjim are known for the activities on the beachside.

People involve themselves in various activities.

Like –

• Tattoo making
• Magic tricks
• Playing musical instruments

These are some ways you can implement to control your Goa trip budget.

Hence, you put your hands in your poc kets with the end of a month in Goa . If you found some rupees/dollars left, then you succeeded.

If you haven’t, you also succeeded because you have tried hard to control the Goa Solo trip budget.

Please let me know if my Goa Solo Trip budget guide has helped you.

DM me on Instagram if you need any help.

Would you please share and follow  the Blog?

Until then, I’ll see you on the roads.

Vansh Tiwari

Share this:, about author.

Vansh Tiwari is a passionate traveler who explores every corner. Then, he presents his vision in images and writing. Further, he loves long walks along the roadside!

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15 Reasons why Goa should be Your First Solo Travel Destination

• February 2, 2021
• goa , india , inspiration , self-alluring , solo , travel , wanderer , wanderlust

I feel each of us should have the ability to take a solo trip . It truly is empowering. From wounds to healing, Goa lets you transform completely. Many ask me why I travel to Goa on a loop instead of exploring other cities. My answer is simple. There is nothing like Goa, and it sure has become a second home for me now. And you, too, will abide by my word once you experience the true essence of Goa’s lifestyle. 

The entire year goes by looking at the outside world from the windows above our office desk, seeing sunrises and sunsets from the pictures shared online, reading acts of kindness and love just through posts. This time let us experience it ourselves. The breeze in the hair, the fragrance in the air, sand between the toes, and letting our bodies repose – give yourself a break and plan a rejuvenating trip where you can lose yourself.

Read my guide  22 interesting things to do in Goa | Solo Female Travel

Here, I will give a complete walkthrough that leaves you with no option but rather book your tickets for Goa.

Rewind to Unwind in 2021

Become a self-start machine and feel the blessing of being alive. Travelling is one source of connecting with yourself and feeling happiness in little things. Your first solo trip should be special. It should inspire you to make many more in the life ahead. Trip to Goa is perfect in every sense as it checks all the boxes from the checklist that we carry around looking for a place. The carefree nature of people, independence to explore, multiple options to find your interest, and solitude by the beach are just a few perks that this place offers. 

We always try to seek beyond what is offered through the brochures or websites. Goa is indeed filled with such hidden gems that are yet to be explored by you. I call Goa a mini-paradise for those who are waiting to be lost amidst nature. Goa as your first solo destination is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and soul searchers. 

Flaunt your beach fashion

It is time to pull those beautiful sarongs and swimwear out of drawers and go skin-dipping in the ocean. Get that perfect tan on your body that you can flawlessly carry around. Apart from this, I am a big fan of beach dresses. Goa is one of India’s modern and forward-looking states, so wearing a bikini or a sarong dress is not a problem. You will vibe well with the crowd as tourists and locals wear such two-pieces by the beach. 

You can also plan your day and visit nearby shacks for a brunch, party, mocktail, or an impromptu date. Here are a few quick tricks that can help you turn your beach outfit into an evening dress in Goa. Firstly, carry a shrug in a boho design as they add an extra cool vibe to any dress. Wear a halter top over your bikini since it adds a dose of trendiness over the sarong. You can carry a fringe bucket bag, strappy sandals, and hoop earrings to transform your look.

Read my guide  What to wear in India: 15 Outfit Ideas for Solo Women Travellers

Situated by the Western Ghats of the country, Goa is blessed with some spectacular beaches. Going to these beaches will let you relax and reset yourself. I am a water baby, and therefore, beaches are heavenly for me. I can spend my entire day there just looking at the waves crashing the shore, collecting little shells, and making a timeline video of the sunset.

Beaches in Goa offer tranquillity in nature, a hippie vibe, and a soothing environment. My favourite beaches are Calangute, Anjuna, Baga and Palolem beach. All these are located in secluded places where a major part of the crowd is not present. By the clean beaches of Goa, you can exfoliate with the sand, go sun-bathing or drink at beach lounge cafes. 

The ‘D’ factor is another reason to fall in love with the beaches of Goa. You will forget about all the supplements once you get into Vitamin D rich sun rays. What are you waiting for? Just book your tickets and feel the serenity of Goa yourself. 

Wander in the wildlife

Unlike other states of India, Goa is still not entirely commercialised. The government has not territorially marked the remote villages, coastline beaches, and deep forests of the area, giving us the golden opportunity to explore the unexplored. During my trip, I realised that this is one place where you can go for a hike and sea diving. All in one, isn’t it cool?

Visit Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary to see more than 450 species of bird. Alternatively, You can visit Goa’s Wildlife Sanctuary to see rare Pangolins, Guars, Crocodiles, Water Buffaloes, Chitals, and Elephants. Sail through the wonders of Rivona water caves and Arvalem caves, and when you get bored of this, go kayaking in the natural sanctuaries. 

Read my guide  15 Non-Touristy Places in Goa, India | Solo Female Travel

Divine yoga

Yoga lets you forget, forgive and move on from the experiences you have been holding onto. Yoga by the beach heals you beyond measures. This place is known as Yogic zen. There are innumerable ashrams, wellness centres, and retreats where travellers find their solace. These aesthetically crafted resorts evoke the quintessential quality of tranquillity. It will allow you to fill your soul with a calming vibe and spiritual energy.

Shopping extravaganza

Local markets of Goa are popular amongst foreign travellers. From flea markets to the night bazaars, these places are the top attractions. You can buy the best souvenirs to carry back home. Hippie clothes, boho dresses, beachwear, spices, herbs, jewellery, and handmade crafts are made especially with eco-friendly ingredients. 

Read my guide  How to Bargain Like a Local on Your Solo Trip to India  

Participate in group activities

It is always fun to be a part of group activities. I will go for a solo trip but end up coming back with loads of friends from all across the world. I find this the best way to learn a new culture, language, and interest. In this aspect, Goa is the best place for solo women travellers as you can book your slot in many activities like fishing, yoga, dance, cooking, photography, heritage walks, and water sports.

Easy commuting

Goa is one place where you can rent the vehicle of your choice and independently pick your route. This is another reason why Goa is ideal for solo women travellers, as you do not have to be dependent on anyone for commuting. It is time to forget metro rides or chauffeur driver cars, rather pick a bicycle or a scooter and explore the new town to its core. You no longer have to wait in queues for public transport at a scheduled time. Enjoy the freedom of anywhere anytime when your heart pleases. Apart from easy rentals, Goa has good connectivity of inter-state buses that can take you to the interiors or remote villages. 

Read my guide 25 Tips for Using Public Transport in India as a Solo Female Traveller

Hang in hangover

Become an active member of partying, boozing, and dancing society of Goa’s nightclubs! There is no place like Goa in India when it comes to cool parties and memorable events. You can find your kind of crowd to chill with. There will be music, a bonfire, wine, fish and chips, and lots of happiness floating around the room. There is a happy hour during most evenings on the weekends so that you can enjoy cheap liquor yet in the best quality. All you need to do to get over your woes is to put on your party shoes and go carefree.

Safe and peaceful

Solo women travelling in India can be a little tricky. Along with the love of people, you will also get some unwanted attention and stares. For me, safety is the first concern when it is about travelling independently. Fortunately, this is not the case in Goa. You can simply ride off without thinking twice of your destination or the time. Goa is mostly safe for women as the nightclubs, beaches, shacks, and cafes are crowded with tourists. I will still advise you to carry pepper spray just to be on the safe side. 

Read my guide,  Is Goa a Safe Destination for Solo Women Travellers?

Budget-friendly hotels

As a solo women traveller, you should try booking an AirBnB or a Zostel. You will get to interact with fellow travellers and get a taste of the local culture. Without burning a hole in your pocket, you can pick your accommodation from many budget-friendly stay options. Goa welcomes tourists throughout the year, so it is advisable to book your stay well in advance and enjoy great discounts.

Seafood by sea-side

Goa is a paradise for all the seafood lovers out there. You can expect exotic fish, cocktails, and salads around beach shacks and street vendors. Eating the fresh fish and Konkani-styled curries are the best to enjoy from their local cuisine. 

Portuguese Architecture

Goa is ideal for history and art lovers. The female solo travellers roam around the city, adorning its beauty and architecture. Goa was a former Portuguese colony, so it is not a surprise to spot many English styles of houses, mansions, and bungalows.

Bring back the adventure spirit!

Goa is a place where untamed forests meet soothing beaches, and hippies indulge in meditation, quite ironic, right? But it indeed is true. Avail of this opportunity and spend time with yourself. Reset your power buttons and be prepared to face challenges ahead. How about facing your fears in Goa itself? I did this, and I am full board recommending you as well. 

You can pick any of the adventure sports from the array of water sports available. Moreover, you can pick a trail and go for a trek, go camping in the forest, or simply for a dive. I tried parasailing, snorkelling, and water skiing, and honestly, they have been the most refreshing moments of my trip. 

Learn the organic lifestyle

An organic lifestyle is a normal part of everyone’s life in Goa. Most of the locals have their own kitchen garden where they grow basic herbs, spices, and manure. They also avoid the use of plastic. They have built bins inside grounds to dispose of biodegradable waste and recycle the rest of the products. This is another reason why they promote handmade goods. From handcrafted paper to reusable water bottles, all sorts of everyday things are available here.

Camera’s day out

Goa is a paradise for shutterbugs. Be it morning, evening, or night – you will get a click for every mood. Beaches and hilltops are an added beauty to the natural flora of Goa. However, its old architecture, forts, and Churches remain my all-time favourite.

The main economy of Goa is driven by tourism. Locals are friendly and habitual of co-existing with foreigners. Due to this, there is no language barrier and, everyone is well versed in English. Goa is colourful, beautiful, chaotic, and inspiring in its own ways. All I wish for you is to Eat, See, Explore, Repeat!

To know more about Goa, read  here.

An introverted blogger who is looking to make unforgettable solo travel memories with one short life.

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Travel Books Reading Answers And Question

The Blog post contains the following IELTS Reading Questions :

• IELTS Reading Multiple Choice Questions
• IELTS Reading Table Completion

Stay informed and prepared for success – Explore our comprehensive Reading Test Info page to get valuable insights, exam format details, and expert tips for mastering the IELTS Reading section .

IELTS Reading Passage: Travel books

Travel Books    

A. There are numerous reasons why people have ventured outside of their own societies. Some travellers might have just wanted to quench their curiosity about the rest of the world. However, until recently, travellers did set out on their journeys for factors other than piqued curiosity. The traveler’s accounts offer a wealth of insightful information about these foreign places and open a window to a better understanding of the local cultures and histories, but they also serve as a mirror for the travellers themselves because they give them a better understanding of who they are.

B. Fragmented travel accounts first appeared in Mesopotamia and Egypt in ancient times, and records of foreign travel started to appear soon after writing was invented. Travel accounts became a popular literary genre after the formation of large, imperial states in the classical world, and they held an especially strong appeal for rulers desiring useful knowledge about their realms. In order to learn more about the history of the Persian wars, the Greek historian Herodotus wrote about his travels to Egypt and Anatolia. Based on journeys made in the first century BCE in search of allies for the Han dynasty, the Chinese envoy Zhang Qian described much of central Asia as far west as Bactria (modern-day Afghanistan). The vast compendia of geographic knowledge that Hellenistic and Roman geographers like Ptolemy, Strabo, and Pliny the Elder compiled were based on their own travels through most of the Mediterranean region as well as the accounts of other travellers.

C. Travel to foreign countries was greatly influenced by trade and pilgrimage during the post-classical era (roughly 500 to 1500 CE). Many parts of the eastern hemisphere were sought after by Muslim traders. They provided the first written accounts of societies in sub-Saharan West Africa and described the lands, peoples, and commercial goods of the Indian Ocean basin from East Africa to Indonesia. Devout Muslims travelled as pilgrims to Mecca to perform the hajj and visit the Islamic holy sites, while traders set out in search of trade and financial gain. Millions of Muslims have followed the prophet Muhammad’s example since his first pilgrimage to Mecca, and thousands of hajj accounts have detailed their experiences. East Asian travellers followed many of the roads and sea lanes in the eastern hemisphere during the post-classical era, though they were not quite as well-known as Muslims. Devout East Asian Buddhists travelled great distances on pilgrimages, and Chinese traders frequently travelled to South-East Asia and India. On occasion, they even ventured to East Africa. Numerous Chinese Buddhists travelled to India between the fifth and ninth centuries CE to study with Buddhist teachers, gather sacred texts, and visit sacred sites. Many pilgrims’ experiences, including those of Faxian, Xuanzang, and Yijing, were chronicled in written accounts. Buddhists from Japan, Korea, and other countries also travelled to other countries in search of spiritual enlightenment, although their numbers were not as great as those of the Chinese pilgrims.

D. Early in the post-classical era, medieval Europeans did not travel as extensively as their Muslim and East Asian contemporaries, despite the fact that ever-increasing numbers of Christian pilgrims travelled to Jerusalem, Rome, Santiago de Compostela (in northern Spain), and other holy sites. However, after the 12th century, numerous merchants, pilgrims, and missionaries from medieval Europe travelled widely and left behind travel diaries; the best-known of these is Marco Polo’s account of his journeys and stay in China. Europeans searched for new and more direct routes to Asian and African markets as they became more familiar with the larger eastern hemisphere and the lucrative commercial opportunities it offered. Their efforts eventually led them to the Americas and Oceania in addition to travelling to every region of the eastern hemisphere.

E. In contrast to Muslim and Chinese travellers and travel writers in post-classical times, European explorers, conquistadors, traders, and missionaries dominated the early modern era (roughly 1500–1800 CE). In early modern times, Muslim and Chinese travel was by no means stopped. However, Europeans travelled to remote regions of the world, and European printing presses produced thousands of travelogues that described distant places and peoples for an audience that seemed to have an insatiable appetite for news about the rest of the world. A number of editors, including Giambattista Ramusio, Richard Hakluyt, Theodore de Biy, and Samuel Purchas, compiled a large number of travel accounts and made them available in sizable published collections due to the volume of travel literature at the time.

F. European travellers explored the interior regions of Africa and the Americas during the 19th century, sparking a new wave of travel writing. While this was going on, European colonial administrators wrote extensively about the societies of their colonial subjects, particularly in the colonies they founded in Asia and Africa. By the middle of the 20th century, attention was also shifting the other way. Travellers from Asia, in particular, visited Europe and the United States in an effort to learn organisational principles that would be helpful for their own societies, despite being painfully aware of the military and technological prowess of European and Euro-American societies. The Japanese reformer Fukuzawa Yu-kichi and the Chinese revolutionary San Yat-senauthor were two of the most notable of these travellers who heavily drew on their overseas observations and experiences in their own writings. 

G. Explosions in both the frequency of long distance travel and the volume of travel writing were seen in the 20th century as a result of the development of affordable and dependable modes of transportation. While there was still a lot of travel for the same reasons as in the past—business, administration, diplomacy, pilgrimage, and missionary work—more efficient mass transportation methods allowed for the growth of new types of travel. Mass tourism emerged as a significant form of consumption for people living in the world’s wealthy societies, making it the most distinctive of them. Travelling allowed people to experience new places like Rome’s landmarks, a Caribbean cruise, a Great Wall of China hike, some Bordeaux wineries, or a Kenyan safari. To accommodate these travellers, a peculiar variation of the travelogue emerged: the guidebook, which provided recommendations on where to eat, stay, shop, observe local customs, and see all the important sights. The global economy has been greatly impacted by tourism, but other recent forms of travel have also had a significant impact.

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Travel books Reading Questions

Questions 1-2 

Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D. Write your answers in boxes 1-2 on your answer sheet.

1. When it first started, why did the majority of people travel?

A. Researching one’s own culture B. Business C. Better familiarity with other people and places D. Publishing travelogues

2. Why did the author say writing travel books is also “a mirror” for travellers themselves?

A. Travellers keep journals of their own experiences. B. Because travellers consider their own culture and way of life. C. Because it broadens our understanding of world cultures. D. As a result of its relevance to the evolution of human society.

Ready to improve your performance in Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) ? Click here to access our comprehensive guide on how to tackle MCQs effectively in the IELTS Reading section.

Questions     3-5  

Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D.

Write your answers in boxes 37-40 on your answer sheet.

3. Why were the imperial rulers especially interested in these travel stories?

A. Reading travel stories was a popular pastime. B. The accounts are often truthful rather than fictional. C. Travel books played an important role in literature. D. They desired knowledge of their empire.

4. Who were the largest group to record their spiritual trips during the post-classical era?

A. Muslim traders B. Muslim pilgrims C. Chinese Buddhists D. Indian Buddhist teachers

5. During the early modern era, a large number of travel books were published to

A. meet the public’s interest. B. explore new business opportunities. C. encourage trips to the new world. D. record the larger world.

Questions 6-13 

Complete the table on the next page.

Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from Reading Passage 234 for each answer.

Boost your performance in Summary, Notes, Table, and Flowchart Completion tasks . Click here to explore our detailed guide and learn how to effectively complete summaries, notes, tables, and flowcharts in the IELTS Reading section.

Travel books Reading answers

1. C  2. B  3. D 4. B  5. A  6. Persian wars 7. Allies 8. Geographical Knowledge 9. Pilgrimage 10. India 11. Colonies 12. Principles 13. Wealthy

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Home » Awareness » How to Save Yourself  From Scams While Travelling To Goa

How to Save Yourself  From Scams While Travelling To Goa

• , July 15, 2023

When we hear the term Goa, an idyllic vision of beaches, churches, nightlife, celebrations, water-related activities, and hospitality immediately comes to mind. And it’s no wonder that this is the reason that this location is quickly rising in popularity as a tourist attraction. While Goa is generally a safe destination for travellers, it’s always important to be aware of potential scams. In this article, we will tell you how to save yourself from Scams in Goa but first let us see what type of scams you might face while traveling to Goa.

Touts and Fake Guides

Be wary of those who approach you and offer their services as extremely nice locals or tour guides. They can try to sell you unnecessary services or steer you toward expensive stores or restaurants.

• Tourists are frequently approached by fake advisors and touts without being requested for help. Be aware of anybody who forcefully or continuously approaches you and offers their services as guides, transportation, or lodging.
• Be cautious when disclosing private information to strangers, such as your vacation itinerary, hotel reservations, or bank information. Scammers might try to use this information to their advantage.
• Tourists who seem uncertain or easily persuaded are frequent targets of scammers. Project confidence, and if someone attempts to persuade you to pay for something you’re not sure about or make a decision, respectfully decline and go.

Beggar Scams

A cute-looking child carrying a sign that reads “I’m a deaf and orphan kid” will approach you. The child will next request money from you for the procedure or hearing aid, as stated on the placard. However, if you say “police” in front of that child, the child will begin to flee before even noticing whether a police officer is present.

Additionally, you could encounter false beggars on the beach who demand money by flashing their missing legs, which they claim were amputated in an accident.

• Giving to beggars is generally not advised, regardless of how persuasive they are. You can search online for a reliable charity in Goa if you want to donate. where you may be sure that your money will be used well
• Most children are pressured into participating in such scams by their parents or immoral organizations that use the proceeds to purchase booze and drugs. The incorrect people will receive your money. Thus, you should disregard them and continue.
• Politely walk away if they still bother you then threaten them that you will call Police.

SIM Card Special Deals

To stay in touch with family and friends back home and, more crucially, to post tales and photographs on Instagram, you need access to the internet while you’re on the go. This is known to scammers in Goa. They will provide you with a deal that seems unreal. These bargains may appear to save you time, money, and hassle because obtaining an official SIM card necessitates submitting documentation, having it verified, and waiting several days for approval.

• Buy prepaid SIM cards from authorized retailers for mobile networks. Airtel, Vodafone, Idea, BSNL, and Reliance Jio are a few of India’s top mobile network operators.

Overcharging and Price Inflation

Some merchants could try to overcharge you for goods or services, especially in well-known tourist locations. Always haggle over costs and be knowledgeable about an item’s typical price range. Before buying anything or employing someone for a service, shop around and compare pricing.

• Investigate the typical pricing range for goods, services, and activities in Goa before your trip. You’ll gain a foundational understanding of what is reasonable from this. To find any notable differences, compare pricing from other retailers or establishments.
• Be ready to haggle and confirm the price up front whether making a purchase or hiring a service. Before you complete the deal, make sure to express your expectations in detail and secure the final pricing. This may assist in avoiding eventual surprises or abrupt price spikes.
• Get suggestions for trustworthy merchants, stores, or service providers by interacting with locals, hotel employees, or other reliable sources. Locals can direct you toward trustworthy solutions and frequently have a better idea of what is fair pricing.

Massage Parlor Scams

When approaching young males on the streets, some massage parlours would take advantage of these hopes by making unrealized promises. They assert that other Prostitution services or a “happy ending” might be provided. It was only a ruse to persuade you to purchase a massage; you will just receive a standard massage. Also, there are a lot of massage parlors that would charge you up to twice the original rates while only giving you a basic massage and you cannot rule out the possibility of getting your pocket completely empty in some cases.

• Find and choose massage clinics that have a solid reputation, are well-established, and have received excellent ratings. Look for organizations with licenses and professionals who place an emphasis on client happiness and follow hygienic and safety guidelines.
• Be wary of massage clinics that are open on the street or those that don’t have the necessary permits to operate. These businesses might not offer professional services and might engage in fraud or unlawful activity.
• Make sure the massage therapists are qualified experts with licenses. If required, ask them to show their certifications. A safe and competent massage will be provided by qualified specialists.

Rental Cars & Bikes Scam

Who wouldn’t want to drive with a tropical forest on one side and the sea on the other? In Goa, there are numerous places to rent a motorcycle and a car. When you return a vehicle that has dents in it, even though you didn’t cause them, you may be charged for the dents. In other words, you will be accused of damaging the vehicle and will have to pay overpriced charges to get it fixed.

• You should always inspect the bike and record a video of it before concluding the purchase. To disprove any claims the dealer might make, you should film the transaction together. You won’t be scammed by the cons of these crafty shop owners because of this.
• This can be avoided by filming the car When you rent it, which includes the rental agency. You can then use the video to disprove any untrue claims. Simply by filming the video, you can also stop misleading claims because a business won’t want a bad review of them on YouTube or any other platform.
• Also, You’d be better off locating a trustworthy mechanic and fixing the car yourself if you did cause damage to it. rather than having the business charge you exorbitant costs to rectify it.

Agent Taxi Drivers

Looking for inexpensive alcohol, genuine Indian clothing, etc. Asking a taxi or rickshaw driver can turn out to be a serious error. The commission drivers receive from stores, restaurants, and motels is predetermined. Because the business owner must pay the fee after all, you will almost always end up paying extra when they take you to a specific store.

• Pay close attention to the officer’s identification, badge, and uniform. Genuine traffic police officers will be identified by their identification. You can ask to view the officer’s official identity if you have any concerns about their reliability, or you can ask for a more senior officer to be present.
• If you think you’re a victim of a traffic police con, try to covertly record the occurrence. Take down the name and badge number of the officer, record any possible images or videos, and gather any more pertinent proof.
• Ask to be moved to a more open area, such as a busy area or a local police station, if you feel uneasy or believe fraud is taking place. This may dissuade con artists from continuing their fraudulent schemes.

Fake Games on Beaches

There are several chances to “ double your money ” with card games as you cruise Goa’s stunning beaches. You may observe other “tourists” winning handily while playing the games. All of these card games are for sure rigged, and everyone who wins is just playing along.

• Find out where to get what you want to buy by asking the front desk staff at the hotel or hostel. They are most likely not getting commission from anywhere.
• Another best option is Google.Google will provide you with some reliable recommendations along with reviews.
• You can also ask other visitors who have spent sufficient time in Goa.

These are folks who create an incredible quantity of imitation jewels, and you can find them at any tiny shop or street corner. They might earn a substantial profit by peddling false jewels at exorbitant prices. Apart from this, You might also be approached by a dapper businessman who will make you an astonishing offer: transport some diamonds for him to your country or place in exchange for thousands of cash.

• Only purchase gemstones in Goa from recognized jewelry stores or registered gemstone sellers. Look for long-standing businesses with positive client feedback and a solid reputation. Don’t buy gemstones from shady characters or someone you don’t know.
• Request a certification for a gemstone from a reputable gemological lab. The authenticity and caliber of the gemstone are confirmed by this certificate. Before completing a purchase, insist on seeing the certificate.
• To determine the gemstones’ average market value, compare prices at various retailers. A price that looks too good to be true may be a sign of fraud. Be wary of sellers that offer gemstones for far less than their market worth.

Fake Currency Scams

India has a significant issue with cash notes, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Goa. The con operates as follows… When you pay for a hotel, meal, transport, or item at a market, the vendor may claim that you have handed them a phony bill of exchange. In actuality, though, they covertly replaced the genuine note you gave them with a phony one that they are now returning to you.

• Firstly check your notes before giving them to the other person.
• Secondly, You might even take a video of the exchange or take a picture of your money before handing them over.

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IELTS Speaking Part 1 Travelling Question and Answers

Find band 9 sample answers to the questions about travelling.

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About the article

In this document, you will find sample answers to the IELTS Speaking part 1 questions about travelling. It is not difficult to get a band 9 score on the IELTS Speaking test, use descriptive words, and idioms and be clear in your conversation.

IELTS Speaking Part 1 Travelling Question and Answers 

1. Do you like travelling?

Yes, I do enjoy travelling a lot since it gives me the chance to learn about new locations, new people, new cultures, and new ways of living. Additionally, it aids in my recovery from the pressures of my professional life and the monotony of my daily activities.

2. Have you travelled much throughout your life lately?

Unfortunately, I haven't been able to travel much, mostly due to the lack of available funding. Additionally, I don't really manage to carve out much time outside of my workday to do much travelling. Nevertheless, I haven't given up on the idea of travelling to those destinations I really want to see in the future.

3. Do you think it’s better to travel alone or with other people? [Why?]

Travelling with others, especially partners or family members, in my opinion, is preferable because it helps us deepen our links and relationships with them while spending quality time together. Additionally, travelling with others gives you a greater sense of security, especially if you're far from home.

4. Where would you like to travel in the future? [Why?]

There is so much to see and enjoy on the globe that I wish I could travel everywhere. But there is one particular nation that I would really like to travel to in the future: Japan. In my opinion, this nation offers the ideal balance of vibrant culture, rich history, and modern conveniences. Aside from that, the breathtaking natural beauty of this nation is another reason I want to travel there.

5. When is the best time to travel for you? Why?

The month of September is the best time of year for me to travel since I have less work to do and the weather is often favourable—neither it's too hot nor too chilly. The 15th of September is the planned date of my vacation to Goa.

6. What are the most common types of transportation run on the streets in your country?

In my country, public and private buses, motorbikes, trucks, and vehicles with three wheels or fewer are the most prevalent modes of transportation that are driven on the streets. Also, it's common to see private automobiles, jeeps, and bikes cruising the streets.