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. Goa is the perfect mix of natural beauty, lively nightlife, and tropical environs.
Goa is not only the land of beaches or city of churches;it's a felling that defines thrill in most amazing way.
In 1312, Goa was under the control of the Muslims for the first time. But they were not fond of the beaches and thus left the place in 1370. To carry Arabian horses for the Vijayanagar cavalry through ships, Goa’s harbors were well known as the major landing place.
The seafaring Portuguese arrived at Goa in 1510 with a target to take control over the spice route from the East. It was an ideal place for them as it was blessed with wide rivers and natural harbors. The Portuguese had an influential control over the state as they expanded their provinces and were there in Goa for quite a long time. Most of the buildings and edifices of the city resembles the Portuguese architectural style as they constructed several Churches and Forts during their administration.
In the later part of 18th century, the Portuguese were defeated by the Marathas. Trade of the Portuguese came to an end in 1961, after the Indian army entered Goa. Goa was officially declared as the 25th state of India in the year 1987, by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. After few years, Konkani- the local language of Goa was considered as one of the 22 official regional languages of India. At present, it is known for having India’s highest per-capita incomes with fishing, farming, tourism and iron-ore mining which are the major sources of its economy.
Golden, Groovy, Gumptious – Goa. A cocktail of tropical influences. An oasis of white-gold sands, azure waters, and kaleidoscopic skies. A playground for historians, hippies, and spiritualists alike. A backpacker’s haven, and a wealthy man’s fancy. An assemblage of little Portuguese bungalows, and a string of luxury hotels - Goa is a heady blend of the old and the new. If not for every reason mentioned above, make a trip solely for its succulent cuisine.
Major tourist attractions include Bom Jesus Basilica, Fort Aguada, a wax museum on Indian culture, and a heritage museum. The Churches and Convents of Goa have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. As of 2013, Goa was the destination of choice for Indian and foreign tourists, particularly Britons, with limited means who wanted to party. The state was hopeful that changes could be made which would attract a more upscale demographic.
The beach is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including swaying palm trees, amazing rocky formation that sits on top of a bay, and white sand protruding into the ocean. The beach offers something for everyone, from a relaxing family holiday to an action-packed weekend with your friends. Anjuna beach offers a variety of recreational opportunities. While the southern end is made up of a rocky headland with strong and crashing waves, the northern end boasts water activities like bungee jumping, banana rides, and so much more. If you are wondering which place is among the best locations to visit in Goa, Anjuna Beach is the answer.
Goa has among the most famous beach places in India. Calangute Beach, also referred to as the “Queen of Beaches”, welcomes tourists of various interests, including nature lovers, thrill seekers, and clubbers. It is the largest and busiest beach in North Goa and offers a stunning view. The beach is bordered by tall palm and coconut trees, with the majestic Arabian Sea in the background. Everything is sold in thriving marketplaces, from snacks and drinks to junk jewellery and clothes. The Calangute Beach offers a wide range of water sports such as water surfing, banana rides, and jet-skiing. The price range for various activities- Jet Ski costs approximately Rs 300 for a ride without a skilled rider . Banana ride costs approximately Rs 450 per person Parasailing costs approximately Rs 1,000 (boating + parachute).
Fort Aguada is located on Sinquerim Beach. It is a Portuguese fort from the 17th century constructed to defend against Dutch and Martha’s invasion. It serves as a well-known Goa landmark today, separating Candolim Beach from Sinquerim Beach and offers some magnificent views. The design provides a useful insight into the building techniques used by early Portuguese architects. Within the fort, there is an antique lighthouse. The fort was formerly a source of freshwater for sailors to refill their supplies, hence the name “agua,” the Portuguese word for water. It was one of Asia’s largest freshwater reservoirs with the capacity to contain 2,376,000 gallons of water. Moreover, the fort was also used as Aguada jail. A statue honouring the freedom fighters stands in front of the jail, adding a patriotic touch to the fort. It contributes in making Goat one of the best beach places in India.
The Dudhsagar Waterfalls, also called “The Flowing Cascade of Milk,” are located on the Goa-Karnataka border. The crystal white water plunges off from a height of almost 1017 feet. The best way to get to them is by entering Mollem National Park and taking a van provided by the park to the waterfalls. The ideal time to see the Dudhsagar falls is during the rainy season. The falls are, however, difficult to access during the monsoon and are closed to the public if the water level rises too high. If you’re wondering which place in Goa is the most soothing and attractive, go to Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
One of the most well-known and historic chapels in Goa is Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, which is situated in Panjim. Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is renowned to contain the second largest church bells in Goa. The church was constructed in the Portuguese Baroque style. These bells are believed to have been taken from the Augustinian ruins of the Old Goa Church of Our Lady of Grace. The church’s exterior is a spotless white, and there are two flights of stairs that zigzag up to the slightly elevated hill where it is situated. It is soothing to see the church lit up at night and the sight of the setting sun. The church draws a large crowd of locals and visitors to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception festival on December 8.
The Anjuna Flea Market is among the best flea markets in Goa. Flea markets are a traditional Goan experience. Only open from the middle of November to the beginning of April, it is an intriguing contrast to the seaside setting. In the 1980s, the market first appeared alongside the Anjuna Beach party scene. Both foreigners and Indians stroll around the area shopping while having fun. At the market, you can find some fantastic fabric items, jewellery, goggles, jackets, bags etc. for cheap prices. Beware of the pickpockets and smugglers, and pay close attention to your valuables, such as your wallet and phone. Additionally, there are tea shops and snack shops lining the streets. There are also other places close by where you can eat.
Tito’s nightclub is only 18 kilometres away from Panaji. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Goa. Tito lane is a common name for the entire lane in Baga where the bar is situated. Due to its fantastic ambiance and versatile DJs, the Tito Pub and Restaurant usually has long lines. It has firmly established itself as one of Goa’s iconic nightclubs. Tito’s has evolved beyond only being a nightclub to include an outdoor restaurant named The Courtyard and a cafe called Mambo Cafe. If you are wondering which place is the most happening place in Goa and is the go to place, visit Tito’s Nightclub. Entry fee- Cost for two – Rs 1500 approx.
Divar Island is located 10 kilometres away from Panjim. There is only one village with a small population on the island. It is covered in thick forest and is wonderful, serene, and full of natural beauty. Divar Island can be easily reached as from morning to evening, ferries run every 15 minutes. This place provides the calm that makes them desire to just explore it, in contrast to the loud party culture of Goa. This is the ideal location for a fantastic day out with family and friends in Goa, one of the best beach places in India.
One of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Goa is Dona Paula, which is around 7 kilometres from Panjim and is renowned for its wide stretch of beach. It is called so in honour of the daughter of a viceroy who is said to have fallen in love with a fisherman. She jumped from a cliff flanked by when she was refused permission to wed him. The beach is also known as the Lover’s Paradise and has a pier (Dona Paula Jetty) next to it that offers a magnificent view of the Arabian Sea and Mormugao harbour. The whitewashed statue of Mother India and Young India, known as “Image of India,” is the main attraction.
The Chapora Fort, situated in Bardez, Goa, towers over the Chapora River. The fort was built by Muslim monarch Adil Shah, whose name the Portuguese changed to Chapora. It is a massive, commanding building that has seen many wars, and over its lengthy history, it has alternated between Portuguese and Indian control. Stunning views can be seen from the fort. You can explore this fort for a couple of hours while admiring the surrounding natural scenery. For anyone who likes fun and subtle adventures, this is the place to go.