TOP 15 BEST PLACES VISIT IN GOA UPDATED (2019-2020)

Top 15 Best Places Visit in Goa Updated (2019-2020)

 
1. Calangute Beach, Goa  ("Queen of Beaches")

"Queen of Beaches"
Calangute Beach, Goa Overview

Calangut Beach, located 15 km from Panjim, is the longest beach in North Goa, stretching from Candolim to Baga. Due to its sheer size and popularity, it is a hub for tourists and backpackers around the world. The sound of the waves merges with the rhythm of the music from the beach, Calangute Beach comes alive in all its beauty. It is the perfect place to look for accommodation as it connects you well to other beaches in the north such as Baga, Anjuna, Candolim, Aguada and many other places. In addition, there are many options to choose from depending on your budget. You can sample the sumptuous culinary samples here at Souza Lobo, Oriental, Electric Cats or Tibetan Kitchen, all offering a unique flavor palette. Join several water sports on the beach or walk in a café and read, there is no shortage of options when it comes to Calangute Beach.

Being one of the busiest and commercial beaches of Goa, Calangute is serving cocktails, beers and seafood with couples, shackles and clubs. Calangute beach is also known for its water sports activities such as parasailing, water surfing, banana rides and jet-skiing. While the days here are full of fun on the beach, the nights call for spirited parties and let your hair down. Also, arriving within some amazing nightclubs and pubs, Calangute Beach attracts tourists from all over the world. 

2. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa 

 

Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa 

The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is one of a kind in India and is known for exemplary Baroque architecture. Built in 1594 and preserved in 1605, the construction of this church coincides with the beginning of Christianity in India. The church is located in old Goa in Begininim, about 10 km from Panjim. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa's oldest church, contains the remains of St. Francis Xavier, a special friend of St. Ignatius Loyola, with whom he founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). Even after 400 years, the remains are in a good condition and are extracted once every decade. A site of rich cultural and religious significance, the Basilica of Bom Jesus has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Literally translating 'Holy Jesus', the Basilica of Bom Jesus is the only church in Old Goa that has not been built outward. The façade of the church has a triangular roof carved initially with 'IHS', a Jesuit symbol meaning 'Jesus, Savior of Men'. Inside, the floor of this church is made of marble mosaic with precious stones, which gives it a beautiful appearance. The interior is decorated with a screen that runs from floor to ceiling and has an image of St. Ignatius Loyola guarding an infant Jesus. Above all is the image of the Holy Trinity, the most sacred symbol in Christianity. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is over 408 years old and is open to the public every day. 

History:

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a monument to the classic forms of aircraft architecture, commissioned by the Society of Jesus, known as the Jesuits. The façade, which is of granite, represents the characteristics of five styles of architecture: Roman, Ionic, Doric, Corinthian, and composite. It is a large single newly built structure (1595–1605) and is paid for by a legacy left by Dom Jerónimo Mascarenhas, a wealthy Portuguese captain in Cochin.

It is the only monument not covered with a plaster. The plaster was stripped in 1970 by an overzealous Portuguese conservationist who believed that it would help preserve the carvings on the façade better. Unfortunately, although this was soon seen as a misconception, no one has held back the plaster

3. Water Sports In Goa

Water sports in Goa,

Water sports in Goa has always seen its fare for enthusiastic tourists and adventure seekers. The beach capital of India enjoys a long and uninterrupted coastline with relatively calm waves and even sea level. While water sports in Goa can be enjoyed at any of the beaches in the north or south, they are more popular and draw huge crowds at Baga, Calangute, Benaulim, Candolim and nearby beaches. While staying here, you can choose from many water sports activities such as kneeling, kite surfing, snorkeling, parasailing and paragliding, diving, kayaking and many more. If you prefer to do so, you can engage in your favorite activities through some vendors of these water sports on the beach. Alternatively, you can also engage in your favorite activities through several licensed water sports package operators like Atlantis Water Sports, Aqua Sports Goa etc. These packages cost between INR 2000 to 4000 or more, depending on the activities chosen.

You should not worry about being a pro at adventures and having a lot of training or experience as the water sports in Goa are designed to cater to every traveler's need. You can be a complete newbie and still experience the thrill of a lifetime, or you can be a pro and manage to have the most fun from these experiences yet. Baga, Calangute, Benaulim and Colva beaches have many water sports operators. Try paragliding in Anjuna or Arambol beach. 

 4. Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada, Goa 

Fort Aguada is a symbol of Portuguese architecture built in the 17th century. Its lighthouse and fort have devastated the ravages of time and stand like a silent watchdog on Sinkim beach, about 18 km from Panjim. Built in 1612 as protection from the Dutch and Marathas, it was the most prized and important fort for the Portuguese and covers the entire peninsula at the southwestern tip of Bardez. The view from the fort is breathtaking as it overlooks the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea.

The fort is named after the Portuguese word for water i.e. 'Agua' and is a source of fresh water for sailors. In fact, it has a capacity to hold 2,376,000 gallons of water and was one of the largest freshwater reservoirs in Asia.
Fort Aguada has also been used as an Aguada prison. An idol in front of the prison greets the freedom fighters, giving a patriotic touch to the fort.
In its heyday, the fort may have been a silent watchdog, but today, it is bursting with tourist activities and happy chatter. The view of the amalgamation of the sun combined with the ancient waters of the Arabian Sea from above the lighthouse is so captivating that it can win over anyone who comes here. 

5. cruise in Goa

"A journey through the rivers of Goa"

cruise in Goa

The cruise in Goa allows exotic views, pristine waters to explore and breathtaking view of the sunset. Surrounded by many rivers, Goa makes for an exciting and varied cruising destination. Goa has a variety of cruises, and each of them offers a unique experience. These range from simple evening cruises, elaborate and romantic dinner cruises, backwater cruises, and of course casino cruises like Deltin Royale. All these usually originate from Miramar Beach in Panaji.
Many cruises in Goa offer dinners, along with guaranteed fun and entertainment activities depending on the time of day, sunset and moonlight. So book a cruise in Goa and take back some unforgettable memories.

Booking a cruise getaway in Goa is quite simple as many of them also offer online booking options. Depending on your needs and the time you want to spend on boats, you can choose a package that suits you best. 

6.Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar Falls, Goa 

Dudhsagar is a pleasant change in landscape for a destination in Goa known for its sunny beaches and inviting waves. The majestic falls are a short distance away from Panaji on the Goa - Karnataka border. Since these falls are located inside the Mollem National Park, their green and verandah forest lands are unique.
Cascading from the mighty peaks of the Western Ghats, these are the highest waterfalls in the country and one of the hundred highest in the world. The Gir is divided into four levels on the Mandovi River and resembles a huge rush of milk flowing down the hill.

While most people reach Dudhsagar by jeep or from their own private transport from Panaji and surrounding areas, others visit the falls via train travel or trekking. No matter what path you choose, the black sound of water, clashing with rocks, cool breeze, and endless flow of white waterfalls lures you. 

7.Scuba Diving in Goa

Scuba Diving in Goa

Goa is one of the few places in India that offers scuba diving. Diving in Goa is not the best due to limited underwater visibility, but it is still popular among tourists.
However, Goa is a good destination for beginners to enjoy the underwater world. Colorful corals, lively fish, spectacular shells and other tropical aquatic creatures beautify the marine world. In addition, a large number of ships, merchant ships and World War II wrecks are waiting to locate the hidden treasure of that place. The absence of strong water flow with topical surges makes this activity perfect for first timers as well as professionals.

8.Colva Beach, Goa 

Colva Beach, Goa

Manorama Colva Beach, located in South Goa, 6 km from the city of Margo, is the most visited beach in Goa. Its 25 km long coastline, stretching from Bogamelo in the north to Cabo de Rama in the south, has lush white sand and is made by cutting coconut trees to enhance its beauty. It looks more stunning around shakes, nightclubs and souvenir stalls. The beach area also suggests the luxurious lifestyle of the elite who owns striking houses or villas that make the village proud. With a non-enchanting atmosphere, endless beaches and mesmerizing enthusiasts, Colva Beach is perfect for feeling life truly.

Attractive water sports like Paragliding and Banana Boat Rides will definitely give you Goosebumps. While Colva Beach is quiet for peace-lovers, it flares up at night for party-lovers. You should not miss the dazzling night life of Kolva. Hundreds of locals come to the bar or pub and celebrate. You cannot leave your hair with dirty music and delicious seafood. The hustle and bustle local market is perfect for street shopping. Also, a stroll on the beach in the evening is very refreshing with the golden reflection of the sun setting in the pristine waters. Peace with a lively atmosphere will make you shake the strings of your soul. If you are looking for a place where you can relax and find it again, Kalwa beach is for you.

9. Morjim Beach, Goa 

Morjim Beach, Goa

Morjim Beach is undoubtedly one of the quietest beaches in North Goa and is located about 12 km from Morjim via the Dular-Marina-Seoulim Road. Located south of Aswem Beach, it serves as a nesting habitat for Olive Ridley turtles. This gives Morjim Beach another moniker, named Turtle Beach. The nesting season for Olive Ridley turtles usually begins in September, although sometimes it can be as late as January, and lasts until March. Morjim is one of the three beaches on the coastline of Goa, the other two being Agonda and Galgibagh in the south. Thus, this time of year is a popular one among tourists who wish to visit the nest.
However, as the Olive Ridley turtle is an endangered species, Morjim Beach is a protected area that is banned from beach parties and tremors. Those present are away from the sea and do not play extremely fast music.

The beach is also known locally as 'Little Russia' as important Russians arrive in the region and make it a point to stay here for over a month. As a result, the place is filled with Russian signboards and shops that sell Russian cuisine.

The protected nature of Morjim Beach is one of the primary factors responsible for its untouched beauty. The vast expanses of sand are ancient and beautiful endlessly and all over the beach. However, this is not to say that Morjim somehow lacks the fun aspect! Many restaurants and shakes promise quality dishes and good times. You can easily go for a quick dip in the sea, experience a day at the beach, on the beach with chilled beer, and even do some shopping on the beach road. Due to the shallow depth, kite surfing makes for an exciting activity on Morjim Beach. Some of the sights of Morjim include Beech Street, Lazy Dog Cafe, La Pledge, The Rice Mill and many more restaurants that offer delicious food and a memorable time.


10.Butterfly Conservatory of Goa

Butterfly Conservatory of Goa, 

The Butterfly Conservatory of Goa is a magnificent garden area in Ponda district spread over 4000 square meters designed as a place to stroll and absorb in the serene beauty of nature. In the vast expanse of the garden, one can leisurely walk and observe over a hundred different species of butterflies from close quarters.

The park, also known as Mystic Woods, is owned and maintained by nature lovers and enthusiasts Drs. Jyoti and Yashodhan are done by Hubalkar, who built the place from scratch. What was once a barren hill a few years ago has been transformed into a large patch of green wood, which is flowing along a stream, thanks to the efforts of the Habalkar family. One of the main attractions of the Butterfly Conservatory of Goa is The Butterfly Pub, which is a place for mud-pus of species of males. This is where male butterflies congregate in pulsing and muddy areas to absorb nutrients such as salts and amino acids.

11.Sri Mahadev Temple, Goa 

Sri Mahadev Temple, Goa

Sri Mahadev Temple is one of the oldest temples in the state dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is said to have been built by Hemadri, the minister of King Ramachandra of the Yadav dynasty, but the Kadamba dynasty of that time ruled Goa. This monument is made of basalt rocks, which originate from the Deccan plateau and embellish the beautiful carvings made by the skilled craftsmen of the time.



12.Butterfly Beach, Goa 

Butterfly Beach, Goa

There is a butterfly coast south of Palolem in the Cancona region of Goa. This beach, also known as Honeymoon Beach, is in the form of a small cove surrounded by dense trees. It is a little remote and difficult to reach on foot, making it one of the most secluded and serene beaches in Goa. It can be reached via a ferry from neighboring Palolem Beach. Interestingly, the beach is so named that the surrounding trees sometimes attract a wide variety of butterflies. This can also happen because the beach is in the shape of a butterfly! Somehow, it is just as beautiful as one, especially during sunset. Get down here with a picnic basket and some wine and experience unity with nature.

Vehicles do not go directly towards it because it is a secluded place where one has to go through dense forest. However, it also makes a great opportunity for trekking through a forest! The best and most effective way to reach Butterfly Beach is by boat from the nearby Palolem or Agonda beaches.
Once you arrive at Butterfly Beach, you are all over the world. Surrounded by dense forest on one side and open sea on the other, the beach is a unique and panoramic landscape. A cove like structure welcomes you to engage in what promises to be a wonderful day at the beach.

13.Anjuna Beach, Goa

 


Anjuna Beach, Goa 

Rocky shores, rocking music, and an independent and happy vibe - that's Anjuna Beach for you. Located at a distance of 21 km near Panjim, it is one of the most popular beaches in North Goa. Various hippie heavens are characterized by its rocky sinks. Come and go around the night, or dance in some techno at Cafe Lilliput! During the day you can sample some of the delicious culinary good at the Burger Factory, Baba au Rums or Basilico. Known as the jewel of Ozran, the swing became a favorite haunt for hippies in the 60s and still retains the same vibe today. When you are here, you make sure to meet a group of tourists from all over the world!

Lose yourself in trance music and immerse yourself in the number of adventure games in Anjuna. It is the variety of activities that make Anjuna Beach one of the most popular beaches in Goa. Hwowever, be careful swimming here as the beach is mostly full of rocky beaches. Anjuna's journey becomes all the more spectacular with bungee jumping from 80 feet tower and other water sports like paragliding and windsurfing. If delectable food is your calling, then Anjuna Beach has plenty of options for you to choose from. You can sample some of the fabulous burgers at the burger factory, or delicious homemade fare at the hearty Italian Baba au Raume in Basikiko. If beachfront dining with pumping music and Goan cocktails and cuisine is your calling, the beach is right in front of the famous beds.






14.Chapora Fort, Goa 

Chapora Fort, Goa

A fortress of history and beauty - Chapora Fort is in North Goa and is located 10 km from Mapusa. This fort is one of the most famous forts in Goa. Built by the Portuguese in 1717, the Chapora Fort has a long and fascinating history. History tells us that the forts around the present state of the fort existed long before the Portuguese landed in Goa. However, the fort was then known by a different name and was rebuilt by the Portuguese. The fort gets its name from the Chapora River which flows along it.
However, at the present time, the fort has gained importance as a 'Dil Chahta Hai' fort and was named after the 2001 blockbuster. An attractive escape, it offers beautiful views of the sea and the Chapora River.

The Chapora Fort has been under the occupation of several rulers, which is one of the rights and ruins of the Portuguese to Marathas. You can still see the entry points of the two tunnels that were built by the Portuguese to use as an escape in times of emergency. Legend also states that the walls of the fort were considered impossible to break as they followed the landscape. However, a Maratha ruler named Sambhaji and his people effortlessly molded the walls, winning the hearts of the Portuguese generals guarding the citadel. This eventually prompted him to surrender the fort through the honor and admiration of the Maratha army.


15.Rees Magos Fort, Goa 

Rees Magos Fort, Goa

Situated on the banks of the Mesodizing River Mandovi, the Reis Magos Fort served as a bastion from 1551 onwards to protect the estuary and housing the Portuguese authorities. The historical structure proved to be helpful during the war against the Marathas around 1800 British. The fort then served as a prison and since 2012 has been a monument to national and historical heritage.