Enunciate the word Goa, and images of blue waves of water, warm sands shimmering under the sunlight, wild parties, flea markets buzzing with tourists & fresh seafood flood your mind. Goa is not just a word, it is a dream — a dream to cherish the beauty, greenery, freshness, and warmness of Goa.
Goa is not only limited to its eye-catching ocean, there are many things to do, many places to visit, and many activities to do. Goa is full of fun activities that you haven’t heard of before. You can avail the benefits of an Ayurvedic massage or take a nice walk near the sea while embracing Goa beauty.
Goa food has maintained its own beauty and standards over the year. So, if you are a foodie then be ready for lip-smacking Goa Fish Curry and many more cuisines.
It is because of all these reasons, Goa attracts everyone and now it has become a favorite honeymoon destination and a tourist destination suitable for family holidays. To make your journey more exciting, here are the 10 best places to visit in Goa.
1. Margao: Cultural capital of Goa!
Margao is a place which you should keep on the top of the list while visiting Goa. The town claims the tag of being Goa’s cultural capital, and you will realize it once you explore this place. Holy Spirit Church, Grace Church, Goa Chitra Museum, Shree Damodar Temple are some reasons why it is the cultural capital.
If you are a lover of various species and dried fish then you should visit the special market. Let your loveness explore the beauty of specialties that makes Margo a must-visit place in Goa.
2. Mapusa: colorful market of Goa
Mapusa is famous for its colorful everyday market in Goa but it is in full swing on Fridays. Once you enter the Mapusa market, you will be surrounded by aromas of species as vendors from all over Goa flock here to sell their products. The market usually fetches up by sunset.
3. Panaji: The Land that never floods
Panaji literally means “The land that never floods”. Panji has magnetized a lot of tourists toward itself because of its eclectic mix of temples, churches, heritage buildings, and walks. If you have explored the beaches of Goa and you want a change then explore the history and culture of Goa in Panaji. Bird lovers can also visit the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary located on the western side of the Island of Chorao along the Mandovi River, just 7 kilometers from Panji.
4. Vasco da Gama: City of beaches
Vasco da Gama is known for being the first person to sail from Europe to India. If you are a beach lover, then Vasco da Gama is a must visit place for you.
There are other attractions too, like St. Andrew’s Church which is a 400 years old church in Goa.
5. Anjuna: Swaying palms trees!
Anjuna is known for its Wednesday Flea Market and Anjuna Beach. The beach is famous for its amazing ambiance arraying with swaying palm trees. The Anjuna beach in Goa escorts a crowd of hippies from all over the world.
6. Old Goa: City of architecture, colonial monuments, and stunning canvas
This side of Goa displays its rich history aand heritage. You can visit famous “Churches and Convents of Goa” which include monuments like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Archaeological Museum, and Ruins of St. Augustine.
7. Mandrem: Spirituality and natural beauty!
Mandrem is a coastal village in the North Goa district in India. The Mandrem beach is famous for its natural beauty. Mandrem is a perfect place for yoga, meditation, and spirituality lovers.
Ayurvedic massages and delicious Goan cuisine along the narrow beach-access road are some activities you can enjoy. Besides, just the view from the beach and the quiet ambiance makes it perfect for an evening walk.
8. Bambolim: quiet and lively
Bambolim is popularly known for its virgin beach as it is untouched by commercialization. This beach is perfect for a quiet peaceful picnic and you will be accompanied by beautiful swaying palm trees.
9. Sanquelim: Rich heritage of temples!
It is famous for the 4 most important temples that is Radha Krishna, Vitthal temple, Datta Mandir and Lord Shiva Rudreshwar temple. Don’t forget to visit Harvalem Waterfalls, which attain their fullest glory during the monsoons and it is just 1 km away
10. Canacona: Beach! Beach! Beach!
Canacona is the southern end of Goa and is known for the charisma of blissful beaches. This city lies in close proximity with exciting beaches, every beach is different from other one and has something different to offer. Some beaches like Patnem, Rajbaga, Colomb and Talpona are near Canacona. This is indeed a haven for beach lovers.