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Goa

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About Goa

Goa is many things to different people. It is India’s ultimate beach location through the year. It is a “coming of age” destination for friends on their first trip from college. But it is also the place where solo travellers feel the most secure. It is the mecca of wild parties and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. But it is also where couples on their honeymoon celebrate love and find the perfect setting for many memorable family holidays. Here, the weary unwind from work. Here, international travellers take their first tentative steps in their journey to find India.

Just like its myriad associations, Goa has many faces. If North Goa moves to the pulsating beat of vibrant parties and beaches, South Goa invites you to unwind in the idyllic languor of the sea. But the true charm of Goa in fact lies somewhere in between. Amidst these two extremes, most travellers soon discover their own pace in this destination with something for everyone.

Yet beyond the beaches and parties, it is easy to miss the hidden Goa, which shows itself only to the traveller with the discerning eye. The ancient home of the Kol, Mundari, and Kharvi tribes, Goa has also been a part of the great Maurya, Chalukya, Rashtrakuta, Kadamba, Yadava, Vijayanagar, and Bahmani empires. It was only later that Goa became the centre of Portuguese India for 450 years. It was also from here that the great Portuguese Empire held sway over the Indian Ocean. Together, these diverse influences make Goa the unique travel destination it remains today.

WHAT TO SEE

Beaches of Goa: While Goa is best known for the beaches dotting the northern part of the state, South Goa has much to offer too. But it is the North Goa beaches of Candolim, Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, and Vagator, which have for long captured the popular imagination. Yet, the lesser-known beaches of Palolem and Colva in South Goa have much to offer tourists as well. Elsewhere, the Miramar Beach in Panjim has the unique flavour of a beach within the city, more frequented by local Goans than tourists. Others like Donna Paula are accompanied by the legend of star-crossed lovers—the Viceroy’s daughter Donna Paula and the Goan fisherman who won her heart. Goa’s unique location also means that every little nook has its place by the sea and most resorts own a private beach. Many of them have not yet been put on the tourist map. So, adventurous hearts still have a chance of finding their own undiscovered place in the sun and the sand.

Our Tip: While exploring the beaches of North Goa, you will find that Candolim, Calangute, and Baga fall in a straight line. So, you could start at Candolim and end your walk in Baga. It’s only Anjuna and Vagator that are further away. Vagator is the least explored and the most tranquil of the five beaches.

Forts of Goa: Dotting the state’s beaches are the forts that offer many spectacular views. Without doubt, the best known among these are Chapora Fort and Aguada Fort. In particular, the film Dil Chahta Hai was shot at Chapora Fort, making a pilgrimage to this spot a necessary “coming of age” ritual for every young person in urban India.

Churches of Old Goa: The churches and convents of Old Goa are the most outstanding remnants of the Portuguese style of architecture in this part of the word and have been d a World Heritage Site. Built at a time when Old Goa was known as the Rome of the East, these monuments brought the baroque style of architecture to Asia. While the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi are the best known of these structures, others like the Se Cathedral, which is among the largest cathedrals in Asia, have their significance too. Apart from their role in history, it is these convents and churches that bring a Mediterranean flavour to Old Goa and give it an old-world charm.

Temples of Goa: Standing shoulder to shoulder with its churches are Goa’s temples. While each of these have a unique identity, the oldest among these dates back to the twelfth century, two hundred years before the Portuguese conquest. Built in the Kadamba style, the Mahadeva temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is made with the basalt stone so commonly found in the Aihole temples of the neighbouring state of Karnataka. While it is smaller than other larger modern Goan temples, it is believed to have stood the ravages of time and many invasions because of its remote location in a forest in the Western ghats.

Portuguese Villas: An unusual glimpse into the past also comes from a visit to Goa’s now forgotten old Portuguese mansions. The best known among these is perhaps the Braganza House located in Goa’s old capital of Chandor. The mansion, which was owned by a prominent Goan family, has a history that goes back 450 years. It has all the features of a princely building of the sixteenth century, including a ballroom. It continues to house a rare collection of antiques and one of the largest private libraries in Goa to this day.

Mario Miranda Museum: But in modern times, few have captured the idiosyncrasies of this state like its late well-loved cartoonist Mario Miranda. This museum, which is a tribute to his work, also gives you an insight into everything that makes Goa unique, all told in his inimitable style.

WHAT TO DO

Go paragliding: Goa’s beaches offer you tons of water sports experiences at a reasonable price. But even if you are looking at a more specialized paragliding licence, Goa is the place for you to learn.

Enjoy the shacks: A unique part of the Goan experience is the innumerable shacks that dot its coastline. It’s the best place to sit with a book, a drink, and a fish cooked in Goan style, and stare down into the calm glittering vastness of the Arabian Sea.

Cruise down the Mandovi: Thanks to its place by the ocean, it’s easy to forget that Goa is blessed with many beautiful rivers, such as the breathtakingly magnificent Mandovi. A daytime or night-time cruise down the river, serenaded by a violist, is another unforgettable experience to be had once in a lifetime along Goa’s tranquil coastline.

Take a history walk: You could also get away from the parties and beaches with a history walk down Goa’s spectacular, sometimes bloody, but always fascinating history. Some of the best history walks centre around the city of Panjim or its old capital Chandor, where there are many old, forgotten stories waiting to be retold.

Hit the clubs and pubs: Goan fenny is one of the most popular drinks that you must try at least once when you are in Goa. Apart from that, one must also visit the clubs and pubs and tap their feet to the rhythmic and pulsating music played by India's best DJs. Tittos and Mambos are considered to be the oldest and best pubs in Goa and they attract a lot of party lovers.

Get tattooed: One can find a lot of tattoo artists as you take a walk around the beach. Some of them are brilliant and if you are planning to get a tattoo there can be no other place than Goa to get inked.

What to eat: Goan cuisine has been deeply influenced by over four hundred years of Portuguese rule. So, the fish, pork, and beef dishes you will find here are unique to this part of India. Port vine is also unique to the state. But if you plan to carry some back home, don’t forget to carry a permit with you in case your luggage is inspected along the way. Most shops will give you one, if you simply ask for it. When it comes to sweet dishes, make sure to try Goa’s beloved dodol and bebinca.

What to buy: Every Goan beach has its line-up of shacks, but the place to shop is the flea markets. While the Anjuna Flea Market was born of Goa’s hippie tradition and has the best deals, the night markets are an experience not to be missed for their unique ambience.

Getting around: The best way to experience Goa is on a bike. You will find tons of small shops where you can hire a bike as soon as you enter the state. Just make sure you have your driving licence with you. However, you don’t usually need to carry a helmet along, as most shops will provide you with one. Another option is to use the local bus transport system, which is basic, but reliable. Finally, you could hire a car. You really experience the magic of Goa when you explore it in your way, and at your own pace.

Where to stay: If you like the buzz of a great big party, North Goa is the place for you. But if you want to unwind, choose South Goa. Another unique experience is living in a heritage home. But if you are here for a longer stay, you could also rent a home in one of Goa’s many gated communities.

The best time to visit: Traditionally, the best time to visit Goa is between November and March. However, Goa has its seasons. And a visit outside the peak tourist season is also a special experience. So, while there are the Goa enthusiasts who swear by New Year and the holiday season in Goa, there are those who also love to visit it in the monsoons.

How to get there: Goa is well connected to the rest of India by road, rail and air. However, if you have the time, a train ride to Goa can be an incredible experience. The Hubli-Madgaon Vasco da Gama route takes you past the famed Dudh Sagar falls. Another alternative is the equally scenic Konkan route.

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Goa Rating & Reviews

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618 Reviews - Showing 1 to 5
OPSPNQ-DOMESTIC
28 Jun 2018 07:50 PM
Hotel Fab Tahira was good but there was no proper mode of travel to the hotel and bad experience was at the hotel reception local people care driver was always on the reception and outside the hotel at the entrance which made every guest uncomfortable, also they charge very high fees as we don't have any other option to travel
Girishcsharma1@refiffmail.com
28 Jun 2018 07:50 PM
I want to visit Rameshwaram & Kanyakumari what will my route by air
Cbzvapi
28 Jun 2018 07:50 PM
very bad experience
Britnell john
28 Jun 2018 07:50 PM
I just don't understand the the hype with goa the beechs are dirty the place is dirty it could be the hotel we stayed in was just as dirty never again
Mlourens
28 Jun 2018 07:50 PM
Spoilt, because of the Senior Travel agent Mr: Verma, who had booked but not put down an advance of the booking, and we were out of pocket, paying up front, even though we were reimbursed. It was very embarrassing to say the least, especially with a sick wife.

Trip Ideas of Goa

11 Apr 2024
Best Beaches in Goa

As we all know that Goa is a home to some of the most pictures que beaches in India and also a paradise for Sundowners. North Goa attractions are the essential part to experience your holidays. There are a variety of places in Goa for nature lovers and adventure seekers.Among the top beaches in the country.  The beaches of Goa hold a special place for every traveller who gets to this paradise. To make your beach vacation memorable, there are several mesmerizing beaches that you must visit. We are listing out some of the best attractions and beaches of North Goa below, so slip into your swimming outfits, grab a beer and put on your sunglasses to enjoy the Goa vacations.

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17 Jan 2024
North Goa Or South Goa Which Part Of Goa Is Worth The Visit HelloTravel

  Goa the most preferred holiday destination invites tourists from around the world and it has a myriad of options for every kind of travellers, be it you want to tipple the night away in some famous club or soak the sun on a tranquil Goa beach. Thus, choosing between North Goa and South Goa, and where to head first is the never ending conundrum of life. Be it North Goa beaches or South Goa beaches, hotels in South Goa or North Goa hotels, to make the choice between these takes a real toll on all of us, and this leads to missing out on so many exciting things to do in Goa. So to ease your confusion we have sorted it out for you to where to go in Goa first, as North Goa and South Goa will give you altogether different experiences, and experiencing the both is completely worth it.   

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17 Jan 2024
40 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Goa

From white sand beaches to water sports to music festivals to flea markets to see people from all over the world around you – Goa is your very own Indian international destination. Best Things to do: Create your own water world with Kayaking in Goa Know more about Goa: https://www.hellotravel.com/india/south-goa   Here are 40 best places to visit in Goa to have an experience like no other – 

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17 Jan 2024
Eight Unique Faces at The Goa Carnival

Each year, sometime in March or February, Goa reverberates with the sound of the Goa Carnival. It is Goa’s celebration of Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday. Like other global celebrations, including the famed Rio Carnival, the Goan celebration begins before Lent. It starts on the day of the Christian feast of the Epiphany and stops a day before Ash Wednesday, better known as Shrove Tuesday. In popular culture, this is Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras in French as it marks the last day of feasting preceding the period of fasting during Lent. It is smaller than the celebrated Rio Carnival and Mardi Gras in New Orleans. But it is among the only such known celebrations in India and even Asia. The Goa Carnival also brings a special Indian flavour that succeeds in making it unique anywhere in the world. Its official colours are usually red and black. Here are eight unique faces that you will see only at the Goa Carnival.

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17 Jan 2024
Getting Sun Kissed In Goa

Be it a weekend getaway plan or a long adventure trip with friends and family, one destination is always among the top, Goa. In Goa, one can do adventure sports, explore the historical heritage and beaches or even lay idle on beachside and enjoy chilled beer. Situated on the west coast of India with the waves of Arabian Sea hopping in and out every second and lush green Western Ghats in the East, Goa is irresistible destination among travellers all across the globe. Goa has a tropical monsoon climate. The best travel season for tourists is from October to March with peak season is in the month of December and through New Year. During this time period, the sky is normally clear and sea is also normal. Goa is well connected by rail, road and air. Goa has an international airport and is at Dabolim near Vasco da Gama. Goa has 2 rail lines operated by Konkan ralway and South Western railway. South Western Railway connects the port town of Vasco da Gama, Goa with Belgaum, Hubli, Karnataka via Margao. Konkan railway line runs parallel to the coast connecting major cities on west coast. Goa is known to boast some of the best beaches in India. 

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17 Jan 2024
Mumbai To Goa Via Indias First Luxury Cruise Angriya

  Mumbai to Goa cruise service inauguration has been done and just in a few days the first Indian luxury cruise Angriya will sail to the glory to your favourite destination Goa. Angriya the cruise vessel is named after Kanhoji Angre, or Conajee Angria, the first Admiral of the Maratha Navy. Also known as the Shivaji of Indian Ocean, the naval dockyard in Mumbai is also called as INS Angre.   The luxury Angriya cruise, another attraction for Goa lovers features six decks and has a capacity to carry around 400 passengers at a time and will take around 16 hours time to reach Goa. This 20 years old vessel was built in Japan and has traversed on the sea-routes of Tokyo. Not just that there are many Japanese elements have been kept intact on the ship for you to mesmerise the beauty.   Agriya houses around 100 rooms in all different categories, from pods, dorms, suites and family rooms.   Not just that, the Angriya cruise also has an infinity pool, spa and reading room for your relaxation to the fullest and to satiate your appetite the ticket holder will be entitled to all the three meals on board. One can also devour delicious buffet meals at two restaurants on the cruise. Whereas to slosh the night away before reaching to the shores of Goa, the cruise features six bars and one lounge to make you have the time of your life while sailing.   The luxury Indian cruise, Angriya is a major initiative by the Indian government to promote Cruise Tourism, which will be the great source of revenue for India.   At present, work is going on in the 3 coastal cities of India to promote cruise service in Mumbai, Chennai, and Kochi. So book your cruise, and enjoy your GOA trip this year.   One way ticket price: INR 7000 approx. for a bed in the dorm,   INR 11000 approx. for a suite per person. Inclusive of meals. Timings: Departure from Mumbai Port- 5 PM and Arrival Goa next morning by - 9 AM approx.  

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17 Jan 2024
Famous Hindu Temples In Goa

Goa is a place that is famous all over the country for its wild parties and serene beaches. However, there is much more offered by the state than the coasts. If you are among the people who think that Goa is just another party place, you have got some serious rethinking to do. The state has a rich culture and heritage, with the many temples that are dotted all over its map. Some of the famous temples that you will find in Goa will cater to your spiritual self, photographic fantasies, and historical curiosities. There are many Hindu temples in Goa that were built before the Portuguese came to the state and established the tourist destination in its current form.

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17 Jan 2024
Besides Beaches, Goa Also Has Some Striking Waterfall, Check Out

Goa is a beautiful destination which is loved by people. From youngsters to oldies, everybody loves visiting Goa. From the variety of food to the clubs or the beaches, Goa is a complete package. Even Goa has some waterfalls which are worth visiting. So given below is the list of Goa images waterfalls which are a must visit.

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17 Jan 2024
5 Famous Beaches for watersports in Goa during summer

Watersports, as the name comes to our mind all we do is connect the imagination with beaches, goa, blue and adventure. It is among one of the best activities for adventure seekers especially for those who have love for water and wants to try iety of rides, hereby we present list of famous beaches for Watersports in Goa during summer where you can go and enjoy enthralling experience of water activities with your friends and family.

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17 Jan 2024
India’s First Cruise Service Starts from Mumbai to Goa

We all have visited Goa for a number of times and still every time we plan a trip, Goa is always in our mind due to its serenity. We all prefer going to Goa as there is easy availability of modes of travel but we all expect something different and thrill-filled to make our travel experience an amazing one. So for the people who are looking out for this thrill then cruise from Mumbai to Goa is an option which you must choose.

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17 Jan 2024
Soon Three Star Luxury Trains Will Make Their Run Between Shirdi, Goa & Tirupati

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17 Jan 2024
Top 10 churches of Goa

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17 Jan 2024
Offbeat Destinations Near Goa Which Will Leave You Spellbound

When we think of Goa the first thing which strikes our mind is the beach. Other than that we find Goa an ideal place for relaxing, good food, partying and so on. We people don't go beyond than this. Goa is something more, yes it's about the offbeat destinations which are situated near to it. They are just pretty amazing. Given below is the list of some of the offbeat destinations near Goa which you must visit to explore the real treasure.

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17 Jan 2024
Best Time To Visit Goa

The best time to visit the most exciting place in India that is Goa is in the months of November to February. The most popular festival of the Goa which is Sunburn takes place during the winter season. Beside the sunburn festival, if you hit the town in December then you can enjoy the Christmas and the New Years Eve in Goa which is also celebrated very extensively.

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17 Jan 2024
Top 10 Goa Packages for Couples

Welcome to the enchanting world of Goa, where sun-kissed beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a rich blend of cultures create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable honeymoon. In this story, explore the top 10 Goa honeymoon packages for couples seeking a romantic escape. Each goa package promises a unique blend of experiences, ensuring your journey into marital bliss is nothing short of magical. Romantic Beach Retreats Heritage and Culture Tours Adventure Escapades Spa and Wellness Packages Private Houseboat Cruises Sunset Cruise Dinners Culinary Delights Nightlife Extravaganza Wildlife and Nature Retreats Romantic Getaways to Offbeat Destinations How to Reach: Goa is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Dabolim Airport serves as the primary gateway, while Madgaon and Thivim are major railway stations. A network of well-maintained roads ensures easy accessibility by car or bus. Best Time to Visit: The ideal time for a honeymoon in Goa is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the festivities are in full swing.

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17 Jan 2024
Top 10 Dishes In Goa Which You Should Treat Your Taste Buds To

Goa is known for its natural beauty, nightlife and the resorts. Above all, Goa is famous for one more thing that is the food. Goa has some spectacular dishes which will leave you amazed. They are finger licking good. Given below is the list of food items which you must try in this happening land.

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17 Jan 2024
10 Best Places to Visit Near Goa from 50 to 500km

Though there are abundant places in Goa where one can rejuvenate but here is the list of 10 Best Places to Visit Near Goa

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17 Jan 2024
Top 5 Beach Resorts in Goa

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17 Jan 2024
Top Goa Tour Packages With Price

Goa has been a popular beach destination, people from around the world visit here to enjoy the beauty of Goa. As it is believed that Goa has its own charm, that attracts people to come back again and again here. The natural beauty, Portuguese architecture, amazing nightlife, and delectable food makes Goa, even more, a destination, where people come to relax and party. So to make your trip to Goa the most memorable one, we have curated here some of the best Goa Packages and Goa tour deals to book.    

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17 Jan 2024
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