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Places To Visit In North Goa

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Here are the top 41 places to visit in North Goa

1. fort aguada.

1 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Fort Aguada is a 17th-century Portuguese fort looking out at the confluence of Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea. The crumbling ramparts of the fort stand on the Sinquerim Beach, approximately 18 km from Panjim. The highlight of the fort is a lone four-storey lighthouse (which is one-of-its-kind in Asia )and a stunning view of the sunset.

2. Chapora Fort

2 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Chapora Fort, located 10 km away from Mapusa, is undeniably one of the most famous forts in Goa. Built by the Portuguese in 1717, Chapora Fort has a long and fascinating history attached to it. More popularly known as the 'Dil Chahta Hai Fort', its claim to fame was the 2001 Bollywood blockbuster shot here. A scintillating escape, it offers beautiful views of the sea and Chapora River.

3. Anjuna Beach

3 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Located near Panjim at a distance of 21 km, Anjuna Beach is among the most popular beaches in North Goa, stretching almost 2km. A hippie paradise of sorts it is characterized by its rocky outcrops. From family outings to adrenaline-filled adventures, Anjuna Beach is famed for its golden coastline, nightclubs, beach shacks, watersports, full-moon parties and flea markets.

4. Baga Beach

4 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

One of the most popular beaches in North Goa, Baga Beach is located close to Calangute beach, around 30 Km North of Panjim. Baga is the perfect destination to witness the dazzling nightlife of Goa as signature places such as Britto's, Tito's and Mambos are located in the vicinity. Being one of the most visited beaches in the North, Baga also offers a vast range of water sports.

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5 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Situated 15 km from Panjim, Calangute Beach 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 from all over the world.

6. Arambol Beach

6 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Beautiful and serene, Arambol Beach is among the best beaches of North Goa and is relatively unexploited by tourist activities. Considered�to be one of the most spectacular beaches in Goa, Arambol beach has a distinct Bohemian feel to it, which attracts tourists from all over the world.

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7. Vagator Beach

7 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

The northernmost beach of Bardez Taluka, the Vagator beach one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. Located 21 kilometres from Panaji, it is famous for its soft white sands and imposing but beautiful rocky cliffs. The beach is divided into two major parts, namely Little Vagator, also known as Ozran Beach, and Big Vagator. Vagator Beach is popular for its sweeping panoramic views, beach shacks and trance parties.

8. Club Cubana, Calangute

8 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Club Cabana in Arpora is one of the best party places in Goa and one of the few where you can enjoy a party every day of the week. Located atop Arpora hill, Calangute, the club is also called ?Nightclub in the Sky? and is a favourite among the party-goers with many national and international DJ?s playing regularly.

9. Club LPK - Love Passion Karma

9 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Club LPK is one of the most popular nightlife spots in Goa. Surrounded by water on three sides, it was shifted to Nerul from its original location. The nightclub has generally some good DJs playing a mix of house, trance, and Bollywood music for all kinds of customers. The dance area is big and the ambiance is great. The iconic Love Passion Karma sign along with the leaning lady is a popular photo-op amongst visitors.

10. Tito's Nightclub

10 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Titos nightclub is one of the top things to do in Goa for most tourists. Located in Calangute, Tito's is one of the most famous nightclubs in Goa. Founded in 1971 by Tito Henry de Souza, the pub is synonymous with Goa's nightlife. The entire lane in Baga, where the pub is located is popularly called Tito lane. Any particular night in Tito lane, you would come across huge queues outside the Tito Pub and restaurant, due to its great ambiance and a great selection of DJ's.

11. Morjim Beach

11 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Morjim Beach is one of the most tranquil beaches of North Goa. Located a little south of Aswem beach, it serves as a nesting habitat for Olive Ridley Turtles. This earns Morjim Beach another moniker, namely the Turtle Beach. The 3km long beach is ideal for a long walk and relishing the sunset view. Tourists mostly visit Morjim Beach to spend a lazy afternoon at the beach shacks and sunbeds.

12. Sinquerim Fort

12 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Located at a distance of 18 kms from Panaji, Sinquerim Fort was constructed in 1612 and overlooks the beautiful Sinquerim Beach. The magnificent fort was used as the reference point for goods arriving from Europe. Also, it was used to guard the territory from the Dutch and Marathas.

13. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

13 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Located in Panjim, Our Lady of Immaculate Conception is one of the most popular and also one of the oldest chapels in Goa. Built in a Portuguese Baroque style, the church is located on a slight elevation, on a hillock. It is known to house the second largest church bells in Goa. These bells are known to have been removed from the Augustinian ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Grace that existed in Old Goa.

14. Ashwem Beach

14 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Located near the famous Morjim Beach, Ashwem Beach is one of the few beaches left in Goa that is yet to be discovered by the mainstream tourist crowd of Goa. The stunning beach offers its visitors an endless expanse of pearly white sands complemented well by the beautiful waves of the Arabian Sea. Surfing and Yoga are widely practised here. The calm waters are safe for swimming.

15 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Located in the famous Titos lane, Mambos is a popular nightclub in Goa. The open-air lounge encircles a dancing area with a host of Indian and international DJs playing every night. Special karaoke parties are organized from time to time. They also serve a variety of Hookahs.

16. Chapora Beach

16 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Chapora Beach is one of the lesser-known beaches of Goa which lies close to the very popular Chapora Fort. This coastal secret is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with a serene combination of white sands, turquoise waters, black lava rocks, and fringes of coconut and palm trees. One can indulge in water sports, swimming, relaxing at the beach shacks, or partying at the Chapora Beach.

17. Mandrem Beach

17 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

One of the northernmost beaches of Goa, the secluded Mandrem Beach lies between Arambol and Ashwem Beach. The charm of Mandrem Beach lies in its secludedness as most tourists prefer visiting the other popular beaches in North Goa. The 790m long white sand beach is lined with tall palm and casuarina trees and is peppered with some small beach shacks.

18. Querim Beach

18 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Querim Beach, also known as Keri Beach, is located at the northernmost tip of Goa. The white sand beach lies at the mouth of the Terehkol River where it joins the Arabian Sea. Due to its secluded location, the Querim Beach is visited by very few tourists which add to its charm. This pristine beach serves as the perfect escape for those looking to get away from the commercial side of Goa and revisit�its natural charm.

19. Fort Tiracol

19 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Across the Terekhol river from the Querim beach in North Goa lies the majestic Tiracol Fort. Also known as the Terekhol Fort, this magnificent structure was once a crucial part of the maritime defence of the Portuguese colonists. Today, it serves as the marvellous Fort Tiracol heritage hotel. It offers an unbeatable panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.

20. Candolim Beach

20 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Candolim Beach lies around 15 kms ahead of Panjim towards North Goa, along the stretch of Fort Aguada. Forming a part of the trio of Calangute, Baga and Candolim party beaches in Goa, this beach is comparatively less crowded which attracts a lot of foreign tourists. Candolim Beach is known for its pulsating nightlife and thrilling water sports.

21. Sinquerim Beach

21 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

The Sinquerim Beach located in North Goa is one of the best beaches in Goa for watersports. It is known for providing international class facilities for parasailing, scuba diving, water skiing, windsurfing and fishing. Located on the south of the other famous beaches of Goa including Baga beach, Calangute beach, and the Candolim beach, it is the quintessential Goan beach with sun, sand, surf and seafood,

22. Anjuna Flea Market

22 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Anjuna Flea Market on Wednesday is a treasure trove of trinkets, handicrafts, hippie clothing, souvenirs and everything else from cheap bags to footwear and junk jewellery. Also popular as the queen of hippie flea markets, the Anjuna Flea Market as much a part of the Goa experience as the beaches. Offering a multiple range of products from Keralan spices, to Kashmiri jewellery, wooden toys from Karnataka to Jimi Hendrix t-shirts, the market is a must-visit.

23. Scuba Diving in Goa

23 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Goa is one of the few places in India offering scuba diving. Diving in Goa is not the best owing to limited underwater visibility, but it is still popular among tourists.  However, Goa is a good destination for beginners to explore the delights of the underwater world. Colourful corals, vibrant fishes, spectacular shells and other tropical aquatic beings adorn the marine world. Apart from that, a large number of shipwrecks, merchant ships and World War II wrecks are the hidden treasure trove of the place waiting to be explored. The absence of strong water current with occasional surges adds serenity to the activity  making it perfect for the first timers as well as the professionals.

24. Dona Paula

24 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Located around 7kms from Panjim, Dona Paula is one of the most popular tourist hangouts in Goa famous for its vast stretch of beach. The small beach is also popular as the Lover's Paradise and features a jetty (Dona Paula Jetty) adjacent to it, which provides an ethereal view of the Arabian Sea and Mormugao harbour. Another attraction here is the whitewashed statue, called 'Image of India', depicting Mother India and Young India.

25. Arvalem Waterfalls

25 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

One of the most beautiful spots to visit in North Goa, Arvalem Waterfalls is located in Sanquelim, about 30km away from from the Panjim Kadamba bus stand. Also known as Harvalem Falls, it forms a huge pool of water at its base - almost as big as a lake. This makes Arvalem Falls a popular tourist and picnic spot. The fall is best visited during the monsoon as after that, it reduces to just a trickle.

26. Mangeshi Temple

26 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Mangeshi Temple or Shri Mangueshi Temple is Lord Shiva temple located in the Mangeshi village in Ponda region of Goa. The largest and most visited temple in Goa, it is built in the honour of Bhagwan Manguesh, the Kuldevata of Gaud Saraswat Brahmins. The deity is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva, whose name was derived from "Mam Girisha" the words used by Goddess Parvati when Lord Shiva made a successful attempt to scare her by taking the form of a Tiger.

27. Kalacha Beach

27 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Kalacha Beach, also known as Paliem Beach, is one of the unexploited beaches of Goa. Known for its sweet water lagoon, Kalacha Beach is located towards the south of Sinquerim Beach which can be accessed from Arambol Beach on foot. A hilltop near the beach is famous for paragliding while the secluded beach provides for a tranquil escape for tourists.

28. Royal Chapel of St Anthony

28 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Chapel of St. Anthony, built in the 17th century by the Portuguese, is dedicated to the patron saint of the Portuguese Navy and the Army, St. Anthony. The attraction is located very close to the Monastery of St. Augustine in Goa. The chapel has a unique architecture with a semi-circular arch and a fort like influence. Devotees flock in large numbers on every 13th of June to celebrate the Saint's Feast Day.

29. Little Vagator Beach

29 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Ozran Beach, famous for its natural landscape and the Fort of Chapora, is a rocky beach and requires climbing a little hillock to reach the shoreline. The view of the horizon from the top of the hillock is quite a sight. Not frequently crowded, the location is often chosen for shooting movies and is a paradise for stargazers. The beach is also called Little Vagator as it is located a little distance away from the Vagator Beach.

30. Church Of Nossa Senhora De Penha De Franca

30 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Church Of Nossa Senhora De Penha De Franca is a grand 16th-century church located on the banks of the confluence of River Mapusa and River Mandovi in Goa. A monument of national heritage, it is also famous for its picturesque location looking across Charao Island on one side and Ribandar Causeway on the other. The interior of the church is stunning with a high-vaulted ceiling and handpainted sceneries.

31. Mae De Deus Church

31 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Housing the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus (Mother of God) which was brought from the ruins of the convent of Mae de Deus at Old Goa, this church in Saligao stands as one of the finest examples of the neo-gothic style of architecture. The church is situated in the amazing surroundings of the typical Goan countryside giving it the look of a castle from a fairy tale. The church was built in the year 1873. The first Sunday of May is celebrated as the church feast, the feast of Our Lady, the Mother of God which is the best time to join the celebrations.

32. St. Clara's Church

32 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

One of the oldest churches in Goa, St. Clara?s Church stands as an example of not giving up. The church was destroyed several times but later reconstructed every time by the villagers. The church is a beacon of hope and strength to many followers and visitors alike. The church is surrounded by lush green forests and has a pure white exterior which gives it a fairy-tale like impression. The feast of St. Clara Church is celebrated on 2nd Saturday of May that is 14th May every year

33. Corjuem Fort

33 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Standing the test of time, Corjuem Fort is an inland fort that was built in 1705 by the Portuguese and is located in Aldona village near River Mapusa in Goa. It is also known as Khojuem Fort locally and is one of the smaller forts in Goa. However, being a relatively unexplored destination it has gained importance in recent times for the sweeping vistas that it offers. It is also among the only two forts to remain standing and relatively intact despite being surrounded by the Portuguese and Mughal rulers.

34. Houses of Goa Museum

34 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Houses of Goa Museum has a splendid collection of houses belonging to the Colonial era in Goa. The museum in itself is a brilliant piece of architecture and dons a ship-like structure. The museum was designed and built by Gerard de Cunha and houses furniture, home decor items, door & window frames, railings, ceramic tiles, etc. from the bygone era when Portuguese architecture became a part of the Goan lifestyle.

35. Shri Shantadurga Temple

35 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Shri Shantadurga Temple is one of the largest temple complexes in Goa. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga who is one of the patron deities of the Gaud Saraswat Brahmins. The Shantadurga deity is the goddess who mediates between Vishnu and Shiva. The highlight of the temple is a golden palki (palanquin) on which the deity is carried around on Mahapanchami festival.

36. Reis Magos Fort

36 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Reis Magos Fort is the oldest fort in Goa, located on the banks of River Bardez across Panjim in Goa. The 15th-century Portuguese fort was once a defence fortress which was later converted into a jail and then a hospital. Ruined and neglected, it was restored and finally opened to the public in 2012. The majestic fort with reddish walls is visible all the way from Panjim.

37. Chorao Island

37 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Located at a distance of 5 km from Panjim, Chorao Island is the largest of the 17 islands present in Goa. Boasting of old world charm, dainty cottages and narrow muddy pathways, the island is a slice of heaven tucked away in time. The island has a very prominent Portuguese air about it which reflects in the architecture of its ancient white washed churches, solitary graveyards, picturesque Portuguese villas and dilapidated buildings. Chorao Island is reached through a ferry tours provided by both government and private operators.

38. Coco Beach

38 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Situated right at the mouth of Nerul River, Coco Beach in Goa is a scenic shoreline located on the Mandovi estuary lined with tall palm and coconut trees. It is perfect for boating, water sports and spotting dolphins. Lined with beach shacks, restaurants, and roadside shopping stalls, Coco Beach is often explored on River Cruises.

39. The World Famous Decades Bar Calangute

39 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

The World Famous Decades Bar is a great place to go when you are not really in the mood to dance, but just want to go to a bar and have a good time with friends. There is live music on Monday, Thursday and Friday. You can also play a game or two of pool at the pool table.

40. Querim Beach and Tiracol Fort

40 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Located in the northern most part of Goa, around 58 km from Panajim, Tiracol fort is a 16th century fort overlooking the Arabian Sea providing a picturesque view.

41. Fort Aguada Jail

41 out of 41 places to visit in North Goa

Located at the bottom of Aguada Fort, Fort Aguada Jail is famous for its panoramic view, architecture and historic significance. It was once the largest jail in the state used to imprison legal offenders. but since 2015 it is open to the public as a heritage site. A part of the jail is also reserved as a museum with galleries, activity zones, amenity zones and information centre.

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• 41 Best Places To Visit In North Goa In 2024 For An Impeccable Beach Holiday

23 Mar 2023

Are you thinking of partying hard and revelry mounted to its zenith? Then, roll your mind towards the hottest shindigs of North Goa. From the popular beaches to the famous shacks, from exquisite Goan cuisine to fashion streets, North Goa has got a hang of everything. Let us take you to a groovy trip of this most rousing zone of India. Take a look at these impeccable places to visit in North Goa which will keep you coming back for more.

Top 41 Best Places To Visit In North Goa

From mystic ambience to impeccable beaches, North Goa is home to numerous mesmerizing escapes that make your vacation the most memorable one. Here are all the exciting places to visit in North Goa the next time you are on your trip. Take a look:

1. Vagator Beach – Most Popular Beach

Image Source

The crescent shape beach known as Sunburn is secluded in other months of the year. The cracked rocks surrounding the beach are one of the best North Goa attractions. The beach is bifurcated into two parts; one where you will find the flea market and lots of shacks to eat. You can also indulge in a wide range of water activities to make the most of your trip. The dramatic red cliffs on Vagator Beach are what makes this beach worth a visit.

Location: Vagator, Goa Timings:  5 AM to 10 PM Famous For : Cliff jumping, sunsets How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

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2. Anjuna Beach – A Palm Shaded Beach

Nesting between the Aravalli hills, this is among the best beaches in North Goa. It is famous for its flea market that is set on every Wednesday and the awe-inspiring view it renders. Anjuna is a small village in the North Goa which has lately become famous for villas and homestays. Enjoy staying near the beach and watching the spectacular sunsets this beach has to offer. This is one of the famous places to visit in North Goa. 

It is one of the best places to visit in North Goa at night if you want to go to the trance parties that happen frequently on the beach. There are a number of shacks and bars on the beach where you can enjoy dining and drinking and sunsets here are one of the best things to see in North Goa.

Location: Anjuna, Goa Timings:  12:00 AM to 11:00 PM Famous For : Parties, nightlife, trance music, cafes  How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws  Entry fee : No entry fee

3. Calangute Beach – A Prisitne Beach

How can one forget this beach from the list of hidden places to visit in North Goa? It is named as “queen of beaches” by many tourists. Shopaholics—big showrooms of graceful handicrafts from Indonesia, Tibet and Kashmir are lined up on the main road alongside the beach. From beach bathing to sipping drinks on the shack, you can have a chilled and laid-back time on the beach during your Goa holiday.

Location: Calangute, Goa Timings: 12:00 AM to 11:00 PM Famous For : Water sports How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

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4. Sinquerim Beach – Beautiful Shores

If you’re looking for the best North Goa tourist places, this sandy beach is frequented by adventure enthusiasts. It offers the best opportunities to try water sports in Goa like Scuba diving, water skiing, windsurfing and much more. Apart from visiting the beach and enjoying thrilling water sports, you can also visit the historic forts that were built by the Portuguese to save themselves from any attack through the sea route. This is one of the top 5 places to visit in North Goa. 

Location: Sinquerium, Candolim, Goa 403515 Timings: NA Famous For : Water sports How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

5. Candolim Beach – Serene Environment

Candolim Beach also tops the list of popular North Goa beaches. There are no shops, restaurants or any commercial activity. It is a calm and peaceful beach with Pacific water and is amongst the best North Goa places to visit. If you are on your honeymoon, then there is no better place for couples than Candolim Beach. It offers a peaceful environment along with beach amusements like water sports, meditation and yoga centres, and spa boutiques.

Location: Candolim Beach Rd, Candolim, Goa 403515 Timings:  24 hours Famous For : Sunburn Music Dance Festival How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

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6. Arambol Beach – Best For Beaching

If you’re looking for places to see in North Goa, this beach is a perfect pick. What makes this beach among the best ones in North Goa is its natural beauty and tranquillity. A rocky as well as a sandy beach, Arambol Beach gives you a hippie Bohemian vibe. If you want to explore Goa in its hippie state, this beach should be on your list. It is one of the best places to visit in north Goa in 2 days.

Location: Arambol, Goa Timings:  24 hours Famous For : Hiking How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

7. Mandrem Beach – Amazing Views

If you are looking for places to see in North Goa with pleasing views then this is the best beach in North Goa. The secret beach of Goa is not so crowded and is perfect for a bonfire party with friends . A white sand beach with clear water, Mandrem is a place where you will find local fishermen. Visit this place during the high tides because that is when its beauty is at its peak. This beach is snuggled between Ashvem and Arambol beaches in North Goa. It is one of the unique places to visit in north Goa for couples.

Location: Mandrem, Goa Timings:  8:30 AM to 10 PM Famous For: Goan feni, stone carvers How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

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8. Fort Aguada – An Ancient Structure

It is the most frequented fort of all the other architecture in Goa and amongst the best places to see in North Goa. Initially, Fort Aguada was a house of Portuguese, but now is transformed into a jail. Don’t miss the view from the lighthouse while you are here. One of the most prized and crucial forts of the Portuguese, Fort Aguada is so large it sweeps along the entire peninsula of the southern tip of Bardez. You ought to come to this place to experience the ecstatic views of the Arabian Sea. It is one of the best places to visit in North Goa during monsoon. It is one of the best places to visit in North Goa for couples other than beaches.

Location: Fort Aguada Rd, Aguada Fort Area, Candolim, Goa 403515 Timings: 10:00 AM to 5.30 PM Famous For : sightseeing How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

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9. Church Of Mae De Deus – Architectural Beauty

Built in 1873 and counted among the best places to visit in North Goa in Monsoon, Church Of Mae De Deus feels right out of a fairy tale. Not just the architecture, the surroundings in which the church is set are equally breathtaking. It is one of the best and top 10 places to visit in North Goa with family. You should come to see this church at night when the whole place is illuminated in a spectacular fashion. It is one of the best churches to visit in North Goa.

Location: Chogm Rd, Saligao, Goa, 403511 Timings: 9:00 AM to 12.30 PM | 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM Famous For : religious, sightseeing How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

Suggested Read: Valentine’s Day In Goa

10. Temple Of Bogdeshwara – Spiritual Vibes

Image Source One of the important temples of North Goa, Temple of Bogdeshwara is a masterpiece on its own and amongst the most famous North Goa tourist places. Located in the verdant greenery, thousands of people visit this temple to get their prayers heard. Every year, a fair called ‘Zatra’ is held at the temple during the month of December or January. One can literally spend hours in the temple attending rituals of the Lord and finding peace and serenity.

Location: Calangute – Mapusa Rd, Mapusa, Goa, 403507 Timings: NA Famous For : Religious How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

11. Chapora Fort – Historical Charm

Another one of the Portuguese architecture marvels, Chapora Fort is one of the top places to visit in North Goa in July. What remains the ruins of today was once where the Portuguese believed to have ruled for over 150 years. The place offers phenomenal views of Anjuna and Vagator Beaches. It is a nice spot for photography and to spend some ideal time. You will also find two tunnels that the Portuguese constructed to escape in case of an emergency. It is one of the best sightseeing places in North Goa.

Location: Chapora Fort Rd, North Goa, Chapora, Goa 403509 Timings: Open 24 hours Famous For : Sightseeing How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

Suggested Read: 7 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Goa

12. Casino Palm – For A Fun Game

It is one of the most famous casinos in Goa where you can try your luck. It is on the Calangute beach in North Goa. Have a feeling of Vegas in the casino where you can enjoy games like roulette and other electronic games. There is also a chic bar and plush lounges inside the casino where you can enjoy the nightlife. The places feature the best things to do in North Goa.

Address: No.7/129-B,Saunta Vadoo, Calangute-Baga Road, Bardez, Baga, Goa 403516 Timings: Open 24 hours Famous For : Gambling, nightlife How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : Rs. 1000 

13. MV Caravela – Try Your Luck

A floating casino in Goa, this place is one of its kind bringing two great things together; gambling and cruise. The first offshore casino from Mandovi Beach in Goa is a perfect place to visit while in Goa. Sail along the waves as you indulge in some delectable dinner and enjoy an evening cruise. If you are a James Bond fan, you can maybe get into the feel and have some fun.

Location: Noah’s Ark, RND Jetty, Dayanand Bandodkar Road, Panaji, Goa 403001 Timings: 6 PM to 3 AM Famous For:  Casino How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : NA

Suggested Read: 13 Jaw-Dropping Places To Visit In Goa In June

14. Casino Pride – A Popular One

Another bang-on casino at Mandovi beach with the fabulous crowd, Casino Pride is an ultimate destination for those who enjoy gambling and nightlife. Even if you are not a player, you can still have a good time on the cruise. And foodies, it has the best of cuisines to hog on to!

Location: River Mandovi, Captain Of Ports Jetty, Panaji, Goa 403001 Timings: Open 24 hours Famous For : nightlife How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : NA

15. Anjuna Market – A Popular Market

If you love flea markets, then you are going to love shopping at the Anjuna Market. Get all the boho hippie stuff you can imagine; shirts, dresses, tote bags, jewellery, trinkets, etc. The market is organized on Wednesday and you surely cannot miss the beach clothes here. They are dirt cheap and absolutely perfect! The place is known for offering the best experience of shopping in Goa .

Location: Anjuna, Goa Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (tentative) Famous For : street shopping How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

Suggested Read: 32 Hidden Places In Goa

16. Mapusa Market – Explore Well

Are you looking for a local market to shop in Goa? Then, you should definitely head to Mapusa Market. The slice of real Goa has the fragrance of fish, vegetables, and meat. Buy Goan sausages from this market if you are crazy about cooking. Antiques, colourful clothes, spices, and slippers are some of the other things you can buy. Don’t forget to buy cheap wine here. Yeah, really!

Location: Mapusa, Goa Timings: Mon-Sat, 9 AM to 6:30 PM  Famous For: Antique shopping, spices How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

17. Bicholim – An Interesting City

Bicholim Market is the hub of pottery. Pick some hand-made objects and interact with the potters themselves. The market has more than 150 shops. It is another one of the pedestrian markets where you can buy local stuff like clothes, crockery, jewellery, fresh fruits and veggies, etc. You can bargain in these markets. Buy smart!

Location: Bicholim, Goa Timings:  NA Famous For : Pottery market How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

Suggested Read: Bangalore to Goa Road Trip

18. Club Cabana – A Popular Club

Located on top of the Arpora Hill, Club Cabana is the place to get wasted and party all night. With an all-night swimming pool and open vast terraces, this has become a famous spot among tourists. Lose yourself to dance with amazing DJs lining up the best music for you. The best part is every Wednesday, this place hosts Ladies’ night offering free entry and unlimited drinks to the ladies.

Location: Arpora Hill, Arpora 403507, India Timings: 9:00 PM to 5:30 AM Famous For : Nightlife How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : Varies

19. Sinq Nightclub – Music And Dance

If you are looking for a trendy place to party in Goa with chills vibes all over, then Sinq is the address. One of the best nightclubs in Goa, SinQ offers a great atmosphere for party animals. Whether you want to laze around the pool lounges or dance you are dead, you can enjoy your night in Goa as you please. A note for teetotalers: the food here is amazing too!

Location: Opposite Taj Holiday Village, Candolim, Bardez 403515, India Timings: 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM Famous For : Nightlife How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : NA

Suggested Read: North Goa VS South Goa

20. Aguada Beach – A Must Visit

While Fort Aguada is known to soothe your eyes with delightful views of Aguada beach, it allures travellers with its pristine landscape and the background of ancient citadels. This is one of the finest North Goa tourist places for a mesmerizing sightseeing experience. The beach is famous amongst honeymooners. Plan a trip to the lighthouse nearby. It offers some gorgeous views of the beach from a height. Make sure you stop by here and experience the beauty.

Location: Aguada-Siolim Road, Goa Timings: Open 24 hours Famous For : Relaxing, lighthouse How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

21. Baga Beach – For Beach Lovers

Baga Beach is the centre of tourist attraction in Goa for an amazing North Goa sightseeing experience. Majestic white waves rush to wipe out the foot imprints left by you on the white sand while the wind continues to flirt with the palm trees. Amongst all the activities, parasailing, banana boat rides and sun-basking are highly enjoyed at this beach. The best time to visit is from November to March. The beachside shacks and cafes serve you delectable Goan delicacies and music to soothe your senses. 

Location: The Baga beach is just half an hour drive away from Panaji and 15 minutes from Mapusa. Timings: Open 24 hours Famous For : Nightlife, cafes How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

Suggested Read: 15 Best Beaches In North Goa

22. Bom Jesus Basilica – A Famous Structure

Amongst the best North Goa tourist places is one of the world-famous Bom Jesus Basilica . Characterized by Baroque architecture and fine detailing, carved from basalt embellishments, it is one of the richest facades in Goa. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is most famous for holding the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. The church is widely famous throughout the Roman Catholic world.

Location: Old Goa Road, Bainguinim, Goa 403402 Timings: 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM Famous For : Sightseeing, religious How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

23. Chorao Island – A Gorgeous Place

Chorao Island is amongst the most famous North Goa places to see, true to its Sanskrit name meaning ‘Stunning Precious Stone’. From being a mere settlement of Portuguese noblemen, this Goan Island has grown into a quaint place nurturing a few churches and aged villas. Being the Largest Island in Goa, Chorao Island surpasses 16 other islands in attracting visitors.

Location: 3 km from Panaji Timings:  Always open Famous For : Relaxing, sightseeing How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : NA

Suggested Read: 55 Best Places To Visit In Goa

24. Grand Island – Breathtaking Views

Grand Island is true to its name. It is amongst the most offbeat yet adventurous tourist places in Goa. It offers a grand experience to lovers of water sports as it is home to excellent Scuba Diving sites. Suzy’s Wreck, Shelter Cove and Bounty Bay are some of the Scuba Diving sites around Grand Island. Take a day trip to this island in Goa for a great snorkelling experience.

Location: NA Timings: NA Famous For : Surfing, scuba diving, adventure How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

25. Club LPK – For Best Nightlife

LPK is a waterfront nightclub in North Goa. It is quite a happening place with a big dance floor, for those who want to dance all night. The ambience is great and the crowd is nice too. If you are looking for the best clubs to party in Goa, then LPK surely is one of those places. Go, check it out on your next Goa trip.

Location: Opposite Bank of India, Verem – Nerul Rd, Nerul, Goa 403114 Timings: NA Famous For : Nightlife How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : NA

Suggested Read: 29 Offbeat Things To Do In Goa

26. Morjim Beach – Some More Beaching

Morjim Beach is amongst the best tourist places in North Goa. Morjim town which is referred to as Little Russia due to the Russian immigrants settling here is a quiet part of North Goa. The beach is an amazing place to relax and unwind. The beach is also the nesting and hatching habitat of one of the endangered species of turtles, the Olive Ridley sea turtle.

Location: Morjim, Goa 403519 Timings:  24 hours Famous For : Surfing How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

27. Querim Beach – A Romantic Beach

Located quite to the north of North Goa is this offbeat beach known as Querim Beach one of the best tourist places in North Goa. It is one of the most pristine places in Goa. not known to most of the tourists, the beach is calm and serene. There aren’t a lot of food shacks here, and it is recommended that one carry their own supplies. There is a liquor shop though, just before one reaches the beach. Enjoy a peaceful sunset at the beach here.

Location: Near Terekol Fort, Arambol, Goa Timings:  24 hours Famous For : Relaxing How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

Suggested Read: 13 Essential Goa Travel Tips

28. Coco Beach – A Silent Beach

Coco Beach is beautifully laced with palm trees and here, one can enjoy the beautiful scenes nature has to offer, making it one of the most visited tourist places in Panjim. Boating is another activity which can be done at this beach other than the thrilling aqua sports. One can also, delve into scuba diving and explore the world beneath the land or can savour the thrill of water skiing and gliding making it one of the must-visit places in North Goa.

29. Vainguinim Beach – A Lesser Known Beach

Known for its silver sand seashore, Vainguinim Beach is an outstanding destination to visit. This beach is definitely a treasure for you with greenish-blue water and exciting marine life. The beach has an array of trees which are housed by variants of birds and, is a must-visit places in North Goa.

Suggested Read: Goa In March

30. Mangueshi Temple – Amazing Structure

One of the largest and most visited temples in Goa, Mangueshi Temple has a sure-shot grandeur that charms the devotees even from far away locations. Keeping up with the pace of history, the Goan style of architecture comes to life here. A unique Deepastambha, which is a 7-storey octagonal lamp tower, is painted white with golden arches and catches the eye of the beholder.

Location : 22 km from Panaji, Goa Timings: 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM Famous For : Religious How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

31. Miramar Beach – Must Not Miss

Miramar beach is what this beach is famed for which has an array of alluring palm trees and, is one of the must-see places in Panjim. Lying close to the confluence point of Mandovi river and the Arabian Sea this beach is an amazing place to delve into a relaxing aura. Here you can indulge in various adventure sports like jet-skiing, water gliding, water skiing and many more to add up to the enchanting experience.

Suggested Read: 10 Magnificent Places To Visit In Old Goa

32. Siridao Beach – Golden Sand And More

Also known as the Shiridon this beach of North Goa is one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Panjim. This coarse sand beach is famed as the “Shell Collectors Beach” lying in the mouth of Zuari River. You can find the most unique shells and a wide range of oysters and pearl shells. There are some mysterious caves too. To add up to the glam and charm of the Siridao Beach there is also a ‘Chapel of Jesus of Nazareth’ perched on a hillock.

33. Goa State Museum – Explore The History

Goa State Museum houses a set of antiques and an impressive collection of artefacts. Of all museums of Goa, this one exhibits items pertaining to religious expression, history of printing in the state, lottery printing, cultural anthropology, contemporary and Christian art, furniture, sculptures and information on Goa’s struggle for freedom. These screenings display short videos of various cultural, heritage and anthropological facts about Goa. If you wish to explore unique places in North Goa, take a tour of this fascinating museum.

Location : Mahatma Gandhi Road, Panaji, Goa Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM Famous For : history, heritage How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

Suggested Read: 15 Weekend Getaways From Goa

34. Butterfly Beach – Charming Beach

The most astounding feature of Butterfly Beach is that you can spot millions of butterflies flying over the hilltop blossoms. The golden sands against the warm blue water create a postcard-perfect location with palm trees and scores of butterflies. This spectacular beach is a well-known site to spot some playful dolphins, crabs and goldfish. Here at the Butterfly Beach, you will have a stunning opportunity to observe amazingly lovely and the most otherworldly nightfall you could just find in your life.

35. Dona Paula Beach – A Historical Beach

Dona Paula beach is one of the most beautiful places to see in North Goa. This former village provides picturesque spots and huge space for sunbathing while relaxing in the calm beaches adjacent to clean blue waters. Travellers love to be here to indulge in water sports like parasailing, kayaking etc. and get the adrenaline rush at beaches like Dias beach and Dona Paula beach. Moreover, the markets for shopping are also vibrant and gets shiny names of food and drinking spots to attract visitors.

Suggested Read: 12 Popular Goa Resorts

36. Titos – The Best Nightlife Experience

Image Credits: titosgoa

One of the best places to see in North Goa for those who wish to witness the true and wild night scenes of Goa have to head to Titos. With an extensive number of branches spread all over, you are sure to not miss out on any sort of fun. Be it swaying to all the Bollywood hits, singing along the classics, enjoying a laid-back time, or relishing some mouth-watering delicacies, Titos, the nightclub, is the answer to it all.

Location: Baga, Goa 403519 Timings: 6 PM to 3 AM Famous For: Nightlife How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : NA

37. Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception – Architectural Marvel

Image Credits: Ondřej Žváček for Wikimedia Commons

North Goa is a place that is not only for the party-goers. It is also a place for those who never fail to appreciate the architecture or the serenity and charm that churches exude. One such charming place of worship in Goa is the Church of Our Lady Immaculate Conception. Adorning a fine blend of classic white Baroque architecture and Portuguese style with a hint of Goa here and there, this Church is as beautiful as it can get. The zig-zag staircase, the large bell, and the intriguing carvings offer an absolute experience to spectators and visitors.

Location: Rua Emídio Garcia, Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403001 Timings: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 3 PM to 5:30 PM Famous For: Architecture How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

Suggested Read: 15 Best Casinos In Goa

38. Grande Island – For Water Adventures

Image Credits: Soman for Wikimedia Commons

Another one of the places to see in North Goa that one should not miss out on is The Grande Island. With the nodding palm trees, incredible marine life experiences, and the spectacular sunsets, this Island takes away the heart of many. Apart from the long stretches of white beaches, this island is also famed for offering some thrilling water sports including snorkelling, swimming, sea walking, scuba diving, and many. This is one of the best places to pay a visit to for those who wish to encounter the beautiful underwater life.

Location: Anjuna Beach, North Goa Timings: Always open  Famous For: Waterfall, Dolphin watching How to reach : Motorcycle taxis, buses, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws Entry fee : No entry fee

39. Reis Magos Fort – One Of The Oldest Structures

Another offbeat and not the most popular places to see in North Goa is the Reis Magos Fort. The fort stands on a hilltop and has a long history. It has stood there for 4 centuries and housed as a residence for  Portuguese viceroys and other personalities. It also transformed into a prison in the later phases and then abandoned. The fort, therefore, has a rich history and slowly becoming a cultural centre in North Goa.

Suggested Read: New Year In Goa

40. Chapel of St. Catherine – For A Tranquil Time

The chapel resonates with a similar architectural style to the Renaissance. It’s an old building commissioned way back in 1510 by Portuguese general Afonso de Albuquerque. The amount of rich history and character that this place holds simply makes it one of the best places to see in North Goa. The classic aura of the building has led it to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

41. Ashvem Beach – Serene Escape For Love Birds

Image Credit: Japleen Pasricha for Wikimedia

Ashvem beach is located in proximity to Morjim Beach and being one of the most impeccable sites in North Goa, the place is a perfect escape for peace seekers and photographers. You can plan a visit during dusk or dawn if you wish to capture the untouched beauty of Goa during sunset and sunrise.

Suggested Read: 6 Scintillating Beaches Near Panjim

Getting Around In North Goa

We are sure you have thought of travelling by ferry at least once in your life. Well, then do not kill your aspirations, hop on it! Besides ferries, there are other modes of transportation, available at cheaper rates, that are equally comfortable and can complete your journey from beaches to shopping to sightseeing. Visit beautiful places to visit in North Goa in 3 days on one of them. Yellow black autos are fairly available in every part of the city. Bargain a lot when travelling via auto, they don’t really adhere to the meter.

Best Time To Visit Goa

The best time to visit Goa is between the months of November and March. This is the time when the weather in Goa is beautifully pleasant, clear and breezy.

Further Read:   5 Beautiful Guest Houses In Panjim

Goa is everyone’s go-to place whenever they think of a place to chill with friends or want a beach holiday. All these places to visit in North Goa an exciting part of the ‘Party State’ that you just cannot afford to miss. Cannot control your itchy feet? Book a trip to Goa and visit all these hidden places in Goa. Share it with your friends to take them along to this phenomenal hippie destination—North Goa!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In North Goa

Which is the cleanest beach in North Goa?

Palolem is the cleanest beach in Goa. If you are craving a relaxing day out on a beautiful beach then Palolem beach should be on your list.

Where is Panaji located?

It is well situated on the banks of the Mandovi River estuary and is the capital of the Indian state of Goa. It is also the headquarters of North Goa district.

When is the best time to visit Goa?

The best time to visit Goa is during the winter season from mid-November till mid-February. The temperature during this time stays around 20-22 degrees Celsius and this is the perfect weather to relax on the beach shacks and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

What is famous in North Goa?

Shack has to be the first answer that would have popped in everyone’s mind. While it is true that North Goa is famous for its shacks and old cafes, it is also famous for being home to some of the oldest beaches in Goa. Food, nightlife, shacks, shopping, and architecture are what North Goa is famous for.

Which month is the best for Goa?

The best month to plan a vacation to Goa is November. You can also plan a visit between February to May as the weather remains pleasant during this time, ranging between 20 degrees to 33 degrees Celsius. December and January are the peak tourist months as tourists prefer celebrating their New Year in Goa.

What can I buy in North Goa?

The popular things you can buy in North Goa include seashells, cashew nuts, music CDs & musical instruments, feni, hats, spices, beachwear, flavoured tea, wooden carvings, sea salt, and more.

Which are some of the must-visit places in North Goa for couples?

Calangute Beach, Baga Beach, Candolim, and Anjuna Beach are amongst the most romantic escapes for the love birds holidaying in North Goa. You can plan a romantic dinner night or relax amid the awe-inspiring ambience of these romantic places to visit in North Goa.

Is North Goa better or South Goa?

Depending on the purpose of travel, places to visit in North Goa and South Goa both have their own charm and uniqueness. For those who are looking forward to eating, drinking and being merry, and party hard, North Goa is the place to be. On the contrary, while South Goa also has some of the most happening party scenes, it suits the taste of those who are looking for a peaceful beach vacation. Hence, one can choose what suits them the best.

Which is the most happening place in Goa?

Curlies Beach Shack at the famous Anjuna Beach is said to have been the most happening place in Goa ever since the concept of shacks came into the picture. Also, much famed as the “Queen of Beaches”, Calangute beach happens to be one of the best places to explore when in Goa. Set in the heart of Goa, Calangute is nestled between Candolim Beach and Baga Beach and is a popular choice among couples due to its scenic vistas.

Which are some of the best nightclubs in Goa?

There are numerous restaurants, cafes, pubs, bars, and nightclubs that are lined on the shimmery coastline of Goa since beach discos are the most happening hangout places in Goa. While the whole crowd goes gaga about Tito’s Bar & Club, some of the best nightclubs in Goa also include the famous Cubana Club, SinQ Night Club, Leopard Valley, UV Bar, and the popular Cafe Mambos.

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Top 26 places to visit in north goa, how to get a personal loan for travel, to conclude.

According to data from the Department of Tourism, more than 38 lakh people visited Goa in 2023, making it one of the most visited tourist places in India. While South Goa has its own cham, North Goa is famous for its lively, buzzing atmosphere, and numerous beaches. 

This blog lists out 26 best places to visit in North Goa for you to have a great time. Let’s explore!

1. Baga Beach

Baga beach is a favourite place for partygoers and beach lovers. During the day you can soak up in the sun and participate in water sports such jet skiing or parasailing.  You can also relax at the beach front bars. Post sun set, you can enjoy beach parties, live music, and bonfires.

• Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon season between October and January.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Chapora Fort, Aguada Fort, Our Lady of Piety, Dr.Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, and Casa de Retiros are some of the most essential places you must visit during your trip to Baga Beach.
• Things to Do: Shopping at Arpora Saturday Night Flea Market, participating in water sports, experiencing the nightlife and amusement parks, and visiting the forts.  

2. Calangute Beach

Calangute Beach is one of the best places to visit in North Goa for couples. With its stunning golden sand, crystal-clear blue waters, and an array of water sports, the beach is a perfect spot for adventure seekers. The beach shacks serve scrumptious seafood and refreshing drinks, further adding to the charm of this place.

• Best Time to Visit: Between late October and February.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Kerkar Art Gallery, Baga Beach, Aguada Fort and St. Alex Church.  
• Things to Do: Water sports, scuba diving, visit shacks, enjoy the nightlife and enjoy spa and wellness. 

3. Anjuna Beach

Anjuna Beach is a 2-kilometre stretch of golden sand on Goa's North Coast with a unique charm. This famous beach is one of the best destinations for partygoers in Goa. It has some of the most famous nightclubs, like Paradiso, and eateries like Curlies, Basilico and Cafe Lilliput.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Anjuna Wednesday Flea Market, Chapora Fort and Vagator Beach.
• Things to Do: Spend your time on the beach, play water sports, experience Goa's famous nightlife, enrol in a yoga retreat or wellness session, shop from the local stalls, and savour delicious seafood curries and fresh Goan cuisine.

4. Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach stands out as a tranquil haven with perfect blend of natural beauty, laid back charm and bohemian culture. There are lots of shops selling clothes, jewellery, handicrafts, and souvenirs. In addition, there are plenty of restaurants where you can relax by the sea, enjoy refreshing cocktails, and savour delicious Indian, Italian, and Goan dishes.

• Best Time to Visit: Between November and March.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Palolem Beach, Fort Aguada, Morjim Beach, and Chapora Fort.
• Things to Do: Participate in activities such as yoga and meditation, water sports, dolphin watching, exploring the Flea market and culinary journey.

5. Candolim Beach

Candolim Beach remains a top choice for tourists throughout the year, thanks to its stunning white sand, crystal-clear waters, and exciting water sports. Wooden huts dotting the shoreline provide convenient access to sun loungers and parasols for rent, ensuring a comfortable day under the sun. Additionally, you can indulge in the flavours of local cuisine or unwind with a refreshing beer.

• Places to Visit Nearby: Visit Fort Aguada, Calangute Beach, and Anjuna Flea Market. Explore Old Goa’s magnificent churches, charming Portuguese architecture, and historical landmarks.
• Things to Do: Enjoy Water sports, experience shopping and nightlife.

6. Deltin Royale

Considered the best place to visit in North Goa at night, Deltin Royale is a luxurious 7-star casino ship situated in the beautiful city of Goa. It is the largest offshore gaming and entertainment centre in not just India but the whole of Asia. .

• Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon season, between November and February.
• Things to Do: Play games such as roulette, blackjack, baccarat, poker, 7up 7down, and the money wheel, experience live music, dance, and magic performances, and have dinner and drinks.  

7. Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a masterpiece in Goa, stands as a testament to the artistry of Baroque architecture. Its façade, crafted from imposing black granite, is a unique blend of five distinct architectural styles, namely, Roman, Ionic, Doric, Corinthian, and Composite. This harmonious fusion creates a visually stunning masterpiece.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Sé Cathedral, the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, the Viceroy's Arch, the Archaeological Museum, St. Cajetan Church and Santa Monica Convent.
• Things to Do: You can take a guided tour, explore Old Goa, attend a mass, and eat at local restaurants, coffee shops, and cafes.

8. Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort is surrounded by steep slopes and has a zigzag outer wall built for its defence. Sitting in a specific spot, the fort gives you great views all around.  You can hike along the Chapora River for breathtaking views of Vagator Beach and the deep blue ocean.

• Best Time to Visit: Between November and February.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Visit Vagator Beach, Anjuna Beach, Ozran Beach, Arpora Night Market, Acropolis Nightclub, and Shiva Valley when you visit Chapora Fort.
• Things to Do: Uncover the fort's rich past, capture photos, watch birds, trek through the surrounding hills, visit Vagator Beach, and the Shiva statue.

9. Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach is a clean, quiet beach in Mapusa, Goa, India. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in North Goa, known for its striking red cliffs and black rock views. The beach is a haven for travellers seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and strolls along the shore.

• Places to Visit Nearby: Ozran Beach, Morjim Beach and Anjuna Market, Primrose Cafe and Nine Bar.
• Things to Do: Take part in activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and stroll along the shore.

10. Casino Pride

Casino Pride, also called Majestic Pride, is a floating casino situated on the Mandovi River in Panjim, Goa. Operating round the clock, seven days a week, the casino provides a wide array of gaming options, along with delectable food, refreshing drinks, and entertainment.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Panjim City, M.G. Road, and Mandovi River.
• Things to Do: Try your luck at classic table games like Roulette, Blackjack, and Poker or test your fortune on thrilling slot machines.

11. Sinquerim Beach

Sinquerim Beach stretches to Baga in the north, making it perfect for going on a casual walk, enjoying the beautiful sunset views, and capturing the moment with your camera. The beach looks even more stunning during sunset, so going for a walk then is a truly special experience.

• Places to Visit Nearby: Aguada Fort, Candolim Beach, and Calangute Beach and get a boat cruise on the Mandovi River.
• Things to Do: Participate in activities such as sunbathing, swimming, water sports. You can also visit Aguada Fort Adventure, enjoy dolphin watching, beach shack feasts and fine dining.

12. Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada is built on the top of a hill overlooking the Arabian sea. It is a testament to Goa’s rich colonial history. You can explore its well-preserved ramparts, lighthouse, and underground tunnels along with the panoramic view of the coastline.

• Places to Visit Nearby: Aguada Lighthouse, Calizz, Church of St Lawrence, Dolphin Point, Big Foot Museum, Devil Finger Caves, Parra Coconut Tree, and Old Lighthouse Tower.
• Things to Do: Visit the nearby beaches and experience water sports such as banana boat rides, kayaking, jet skiing, and windsurfing.

13. Goa State Museum

Goa State Museum, otherwise known as the State Archaeology Museum, Panaji includes departments such as Geology, Arts and Crafts, and Archaeology and Ancient History. Currently, the museum is situated at Adil Shah’s Palace in Panaji and boasts more than 8,000 artefacts, including bronzes, wooden objects, carvings, paintings, manuscripts, stone sculptures, anthropological objects, rare coins, etc.

• Best Time to Visit: Between October and March.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Immaculate Conception Church, Big Daddy Casino, Deltin Royale, Reis Magos Fort, Basilica of Bom Jesus, etc.  
• Things to Do: Walk around the premises of the Goa State Museum and understand the culture and history of Goa by going through the exhibits at the museum.

14. Reis Magos Fort

Reis Magos Fort is a Portuguese fort in Goa located on the northern bank of the Mandovi River. The Adil Shahi Sultanate of Bijapur originally built the fort in 1493 as a military outpost. It was expanded and re-erected in 1707. The fort was used as a jail from 1900 until it was abandoned in 1993.

• Places to Visit Nearby: Candolim Beach, Coco Beach, Goa State Museum, Sinquerim Beach, Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, Sinquerim Fort, Fort Aguada, Miramar Beach and Dona Paula Beach.
• Things to Do: Explore spas, gift and speciality shops, bars and clubs, boat tours, scuba and snorkelling.

15. Anjuna Flea Market

Anjuna Flea Market is a weekly flea market located on Anjuna Beach in Goa, India. The market is a massive bazaar that was formed in the 1960s when travellers bartered their goods in the square.  It has a variety of stores that sell a variety of items, including beach clothing and handicrafts. Some say the market has a good number of options with competitive rates.

• Best Time to Visit: Between 9 AM and 4 PM.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, Candolim Beach, Ozran Beach, Curlies by C Lounge, and Nyex Beach Club.
• Things to Do: Shop for psychedelic art, clothing, handicrafts, jewellery, colourful handicrafts, dreamcatchers and souvenirs.

16. Curlies Beach Shack

Curlies Beach Shack is a popular beach shack located on Anjuna Beach in North Goa. It is a party destination with a hippie vibe, psychedelic trance, and techno music. Visit this place for its trendy crowd, great vibes, and amazing ambience by the sea.  Curlies offers direct beach access, a view of the Arabian Sea, and a great choice of music from different genres.

• Best Time to Visit: Between November to February.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Morjim Beach, Coco Beach, Mandrem Beach, Rivona Caves, Club Cubana and Ancestral Goa (Big Foot Museum).
• Things to Do: Enjoy boat rides, jet skiing, kayaking, fishing, dolphin spotting, banana boat rides, parasailing, and snorkelling.

17. Mangeshi Temple

Mangeshi Temple, also known as Manguesh Devasthan, is a 400-year-old temple in Goa dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a testament to Goa’s rich cultural heritage ad syncretic traditions. The temple offers a soul-stirring experience that transcends boundaries of time and space.

• Best Time to Visit: Mid-November to mid-February.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Basilica of Bom Jesus, Shri Mahalasa Narayani Temple, Se Cathedral, Shree Shantadurga Temple, Church of St. Francis of Assisi and the St. Augustine Tower.
• Things to Do: Visit sacred and religious sites, go to spas, sunbathe at the beaches, and buy gifts from specialty shops.

18. Mahalakshmi Temple

Shri Mahalaxmi Temple is a temple in Bandora, Goa, dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi. It stands as beacon of spiritual enlighten.  Throughout the year, the temple hosts various festivals and celebrations. The highlight of the temple is the idol of the Goddess Mahalakshmi, which has a linga on her head. This is considered a Satvik (peaceful) form of the Devi.

• Places to Visit Nearby: Shri Nageshi Temple, St. Roque Chapel, Casino Pride (Majestic Pride), Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of The Immaculate Conception of The Virgin Mary, Casino Royale Goa, Fort Aguada, and Goa Archaeological Museum.
• Things to Do: Take bike tours, take long cultural walks in Margao and view the beautiful houses of Goa.

19. The Church of Mae De Deu

Located in Saligao, Goa, the Church of Mae De Deus, otherwise known as the Mother of God Church, is an example of Neo-Gothic architecture. Its spires each have a cross on top. The church was built in 1873 and is surrounded by the typical picturesque Goan countryside.

• Places to Visit Nearby: St. Alex Church, Candolim Beach, Baga Beach, Sinquerim Beach, Fort Aguada and Big Daddy Casino are some of the most essential places you must visit if you are going to the Church of Mae De Deu.
• Things to Do: Visit Baga Beach Goa and Candolim Beach and participate in water sports, explore eateries, witness the beautiful sunset, parasail, spend your time in the shacks, and enjoy the night life.

20. The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture. Despite the simplicity of its interior design, the church boasts a stunning main altar dedicated to Mary Immaculate. Daily masses are held in English, Konkani, and Portuguese, making them accessible to a diverse set of worshippers. Whether you are a local or a visitor, a visit to this church is sure to be a memorable and spiritual experience.

• Places to Visit Nearby: Se Cathedral, Reis Magos Fort, Shri Mahalaxmi Temple and Miramar Beach.
• Things to Do: Visit the special service, walk or bike around the beautiful area or visit Goa's Latin Quarter.

21. Chapel of St. Catherine

The Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria is a small and elegant Baroque chapel in Old Goa, India. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is significant to Portuguese history in India.

• Places to Visit Nearby: Church of St. Francis of Assisi, the Se Cathedral, and the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
• Things to Do: You can roam around the campus, attend the mass and visit other places in North Goa.

22. Temple of Bodgeshwar

The Bodgeshwar Temple is devoted to Kanakeshwar Baba, who is also known as Bodgeshwar or Bongini. It is located amidst a lush green environment, surrounded by paddy fields. Every year, the temple hosts a five-day festival on Paush Shukla Chaturdashi, which falls on the fourteenth day of the waxing phase of the moon. This festival usually takes place in January or December.

• Places to Visit Nearby: Anjuna Beach, Miramar Beach, Calangute Beach, Corjuem Fort, Fort Aguada, Goa State Museum, Shri Dev Bodgeshwar Sansthan, Dona Paula Beach and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
• Things to Do: Pray and give offerings to the shrines, visit famous places such as Fontainhas Heritage Walk, The Nature Trail at Chorao Island, BLive Electric Bike Tours and a Private Cultural Tour.

23. Houses of Goa Museum

The Houses of Goa Museum is a triangular multi-level building designed and built by Gerard da Cunha in 1997. The museum features photographs, drawings, historical objects, furniture, home decor items, door and window frames, railings, and ceramic tiles. The museum puts into context the architectural heritage of Goa and its mixed influences from Portuguese and other cultures.

• Places to Visit Nearby: Basilica of Bom Jesus, Baga Beach, and the Museum of Goa.
• Things to Do: The Houses of Goa Museum has many stores and galleries nearby that sell arts, souvenirs, tiles and other handicrafts.

24. Museum of Christian Art

The Museum of Christian Art (MOCA) is a non-profit museum in Old Goa famous for housing various Christian arts. The museum's extensive collection includes a 19th-century ivory and gold baby Jesus in his silver crib. Some say the museum has an exquisite collection and a calming ambience.

• Best Time to Visit: Between November to March.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Morjim Beach, Coco Beach, Mandrem Beach, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church Goa, Rivona Caves, Sinquerim Beach, Ancestral Goa and the Japanese Garden.
• Things to Do: Take part in a Latin Quarter Walk at Fontainhas, BLive Electric Bike Tours in Old Goa, Old Goa Heritage Walk by Make It Happen, and Fontainhas Heritage Walk by Make It Happen.

25. Mapusa Market

Mapusa Market is a popular tourist destination and one of the oldest shopping centres in Goa. The market is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, immersive cultural experience, and extensive selection of products. The market offers a variety of goods, including fresh produce, spices, textiles, clothing, handicrafts, souvenirs, locally grown fresh fruits, pottery, sausages, and fenny stores.

• Best Time to Visit: Fridays.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Sinquerim Beach, Candolim Beach, Anjuna Beach, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and Immaculate Conception Church.
• Things to Do: Visit churches, beaches, and explore the market.

26 Arpora Night Market

The night market in Arpora is a highly sought-after destination for both Indian and European tourists. Its unique appeal lies in its attraction of many foreign tourists as well as those inclined towards hippie culture. The ambience of the market is distinctively cosmopolitan, with numerous stalls run by Europeans.

• Best Time to Visit: November to April.
• Places to Visit Nearby: Morjim Beach, Coco Beach, Mandrem Beach, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church Goa, Rivona Caves, and Sinquerim Beach.
• Things to Do: Go for Go Karting, clubbing at Club Cubana, visit the Splashdown Waterpark Goa, explore water sports, and visit a spa and wellness centre.

As you plan your vacation, consider the convenience of a Personal Loan for travel, which can help you turn your dreams of exploring this enchanting region into reality.

Also Read -  9 Best Places for Solo Travel in India

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• Step 1: Click on ‘ Apply Now ’.
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Also Read -  Facts You Should Know About Travel Loan in India

North Goa offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers seeking everything from pristine beaches to vibrant markets and cultural landmarks. From the serene shores of Anjuna and Vagator to the lively streets of Calangute and Baga, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant region. If you find yourself dreaming of exploring these enchanting locales but need a financial boost, a Personal Loan for travel could be the key to turning your wanderlust into reality.

Poonawalla Fincorp offers Personal Loan at affordable interest rates with quick disbursement. What are you waiting for? Apply now!

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17 Best Places to Visit in North Goa – A Detailed Travel Guide

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

This article contains a list of the best places to visit in North Goa for sightseeing.

North Goa is known for its vivacious and lively beaches, the abundance of wonderful cafes and restaurants as well as the many places to visit in North Goa such as the forts, islands, churches, and other sightseeing places. This handy North Goa guide consists of all the information you need to plan a happening Goa trip.

Whether you're a party animal looking for the North Goa nightlife or a bookworm who simply wants to find a quiet scenic spot to read endlessly or the explorer who wants to hit all the top places to visit in North Goa, there is something for everyone here. In this guide to the must visit places in North Goa, you will discover all the North Goa sightseeing spots, restaurants and hotels.

Best Places to Visit in North Goa for Sightseeing

When it comes to the best places to visit in North Goa, there's no shortage of sightseeing options. From forts to beaches to art centres, churches and interesting neighbourhoods, you'll find it all in North Goa.

1. Chapora Fort

Chapora fort has been made famous by the cult classic Bollywood movie ' Dil Chahta Hai '. As a matter of fact, even today you can see college students enacting the famous shot of the movie here. The fort is located very close to Vagator beach. There's a little bit of climb involved in getting here but the view from the fort is well worth the climb! The very famous and wonderful hotel W Goa is perfectly located between the Chapora fort and Vagator beach.

2. Aguada Fort

Aguada fort is one of the most impressive Portuguese forts still standing intact in Goa. You can visit this fort on all days of the week from the morning at 9.30 am till 5.30 pm in the evening. This majestic fort also holds a lighthouse and you can see a panoramic view of the Mandovi river, that meets the Arabian sea, from the fort. The fort is located in the Sinquerim area in North Goa and you can combine a visit to Aguada fort with the Sinquerim fort. Read more about Aguada Fort in detail on the official site.

3. Sinquerim Fort

Sinquerim Fort is a fun little place located in Sinquerim, not far from the Aguada Fort. The ruins of the Sinquerim Fort look over the Arabic ocean. During the high tide, waves from the ocean wash up against the fort walls creating water showers. It's a lot of fun just standing there and waiting for the waves to hit you. The Sinquerim beach is also a nice spot to visit for water sports. There are two hotels perfectly situated with a view of the fort and beach - these are Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa and Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa .

4. Reis Magos Fort

Reis Magos is one of the most beautiful places to visit in North Goa. As soon as you enter the fort, you'll be mesmerised with the location, unique architecture and the layout of the fort. In fact, the fort even houses a museum where you'll learn a lot more about its history. Facing Panjim city , overlooking both the Mandovi river as well as the Arabian ocean, the location of the Reis Magos fort is to die for! The timings of Reis Magos fort are from 9.30 am to 5 pm and the fort is closed on Mondays. Read more about the fort on the official website .

Parra has been made famous by the recent Bollywood movie 'Dear Zindagi'. In fact, the road became so famous after the movie came out that the road has even been named as the ' Dear Zindagi road ' on google maps. You can type either that or 'Parra chapel' into maps to reach here. This unique spot is one of the best places to explore in North Goa where there are coconut trees and lush greenery on either side. Such is the beauty of the Parra road that it is featured on every list of the most instagrammable places in Goa .

Keep in mind though, that this is a road used by locals as well as taxi cabs passing through so don't hold up traffic for photo shoots and don't leave litter on the road.

6. Panjim City

Panjim or Panaji is the capital city of Goa . It's identified by the beautiful river view on one side of the main road and colorful buildings on the other side of the road. Apart from the interesting buildings, the old Latin quarters of Goa, beaches and the street art, You can easily find a whole bunch of things to do in Panaji Goa  and spend a whole day just exploring the capital city. Don't miss the famous Panjim Church , Miramar Beach , Dona Paula jetty and a Panjim river cruise while you're in the city.

7. Fontainhas

Fontainhas, the old Latin quarter of Goa has gained much popularity over the past couple of years. For one thing, the many colorful houses and graphic staircases are quite appealing photo-worthy spots. You can see quite a few youngsters, couples and photographers shooting here all day. Secondly, the rich history of Fontainhas has inspired many Fontainhas heritage walk tours. You can easily book a Fontainhas walking tour or bicycle tour to learn more about the history of this neighbourhood. Alternatively, you can even take a self-guided tour by following my article on things to do in Fontainhas - the old Latin quarter of Goa .

While you are in the vicinity of Panaji city, take a day trip from Panjim to Old Goa. Here, visit the very famous Old Goa church and one of the many offbeat places to visit in Old Goa such as Se Cathedral , St Cajetan church , St Augustine tower etc. Spare at least half a day to explore all the Old Goa attractions properly, which are some of the best and most popular places to visit in North Goa, India. You can even have lunch at a local riverside restaurant called Gene Garden which is near the Ribandar ferry point. Additionally, for something offbeat, take the ferry from here to the picturesque laid-back Divar island .

9. Divar Island

When we talk about the best places to visit in North Goa or the popular sightseeing places in North Goa, it's hard not to ignore the offbeat Divar island. This island is located near Panjim city and can be reached by taking a ferry. The ferry point is located in Ribandar which is between Panjim and Old Goa. This island is one of the many offbeat things to do in Goa . Here you'll find a sleepy village, endless greenery, hilltop chapels and such authentic Goan beauty all around!

10. Saligao

If you've covered the places to visit in North Goa and are just looking to chill out in a tranquil, almost divine spot, then this is the place for you. Saligao is a beautiful place in the heart of all the North Goa sightseeing places. This particular road, pictured above, in Saligao, is surrounded by open fields and decorated with lamp posts and benches to enjoy the views. Come here to escape the crowds in North Goa.

11. Mae de Deus Church

The Mae de Deus or Mother of Goa church is located in the idyllic area of Saligao in North Goa. This impressive church is an exemplary example of the Neo-Gothic style of architecture. While there are timings for visiting the inside of the church, you can walk around the outside premises at any time provided you're respectful and not too noisy. While there are many churches to see in North Goa, this one, located among greenery and standing alone, is truly special.

12. Museum of Goa

A visit to popular places in North Goa is incomplete without a visit to the Museum of Goa . The museum was founded by the popular Goan artist Mr Subodh Kerkar in the year 2015. The museum houses pieces of contemporary art, a gift shop, a popular outdoor art installation and even a cafe. You can drop-by here while visiting some of the other places nearby such as Saligao and the Mae de Deus Church.

13. Vagator Hilltop

Coming to the North Goa beaches, Vagator is one of the popular beaches here. Known for the epic cliffside views, Vagator is a popular spot to spend the day bathing in the river, exgaging in water sports, dining at some nearby restaurants such as Olive Goa or shopping for souvenirs. There are even quite a few street food stalls in this clifftop area and a few benches to relax and enjoy the view. Additionally, a lot of the rave parties in Goa are held in Vagator, if you're into all that.

23 Best Hostels in Goa for Travel and Work from Home

No visit to the North Goa sightseeing places is complete without heading to Anjuna. Anjuna is an area which has some extremely popular cafes, amazing restaurants, nightclubs, a beach with water sports and a rocky beach section. Not only that, but you can also get killer sunset views at Anjuna beach. Just head to the famous restaurant Purple Martini to enhance your sunset experience.

Must Read: North Goa vs South Goa - A Detailed Comparison

15. Siolim Riverside Chapel

Lastly, coming to some of the other offbeat things to do in North Goa, why not visit a quiet riverside chapel where you'll hardly meet another soul?! The Siolim riverside chapel is one of the most beautiful places I've visited in North Goa and so it was hard not to include it in my North Goa guide. Combine a visit to this chapel if you visit the popular Thalassa restaurant which is now located in Siolim itself. The drive here takes you through small villages, unbelievable riverside views and lots of coconut trees.

16. Sweet Water Lake

Coming to one of my favorite places to visit in North Goa - which is the Sweet Water Lake in Arambol. No visit to North Goa is complete if you haven't seen this epic lake which is one of the offbeat places to see in North Goa. To reach here, you need to hike from the North end of the Arambol beach inside the tunnel that's full of shops until you reach a secluded beach . The lake lies opposite to that smaller beach. There are beach shacks, lounge chairs and even a hotel here. Read more about it in my travel guide to Arambol beach, Goa .

17. Offbeat Places in North Goa

In case you follow some Goa travel pages on Instagram, your feed must be flooded with pictures of offbeat and secluded places to visit in Goa. Not many bloggers are willing to disclose the names of these pages since they are afraid these pristine locations will be flooded with people and litter soon. To be honest, I feel the same way. So I won't be revealing the name of this place. BUT, if you really really want to know where this is, drop me a message on my Instagram handle (@thespicyjourney) and promise me you won't litter and I'll give you the name!

North Goa Beaches

The North Goa beaches are always happening. You'll find a plethora of souvenir shops, beach shacks, party music, clubs and happy faces. Coming to the popular beaches in North Goa, Calangute beach and Baga beach are favourite ones among tourists. even Anjuna beach and Vagator beach count among the popular beaches in North Goa. If you want a more hippie crowd rather than a touristy crowd, head far north to Arambol beach , Ashwem beach and Morjim beach . Read my full guide to the best beaches in North Goa .

Restaurants in North Goa

You can find some of the most famous restaurants in Goa located in North Goa. The North Goa restaurants range from beach clubs to beach-side upscale to riverside romantic restaurants and trendy cafes. There's something here for everyone. In fact, there are so many popular restaurants in North Goa that I combined a list of the best restaurants in North Goa exclusively for you.

Where to Stay in North Goa

There are innumerable hostels and hotels in North Goa. Take a look at some popular picks of hotels in North Goa:

• Hostels - Jungle by the HostelCrowd , Folklore Hostel
• Budget Hotels in North Goa - Garden Villa Vagator, Goa Imperial Boutique , Marquito's Guest House Panaji
• Resorts in North Goa - Aria , Marbela Beach Resort , Novotel Goa Resort and Spa

Find hotels in North Goa on Booking.com

Luxury hotels in North Goa

The infinity pool at Doubletree by Hilton, Panaji, Goa

You can find plenty of luxury hotels in North Goa at various price ranges and unique locations. Some of the popular hotels in North Goa include Doubletree by Hilton , The Park Baga River , Fairfield by Marriot , Novotel Goa and of course, there are many more.

Find luxury hotels in North Goa on Booking.com

Resorts in North Goa

Marbela Beach Resort

Some of the best resorts in Goa are located in North Goa itself. Some of the popular resorts in North Goa include Marbela beach resort , Novotel Goa Resort and Spa , Riva beach resort and lots more.

Find resorts in North Goa on Booking.com

Planning a Trip to Goa?

If you're planning a trip to Goa, then you might find these articles helpful:

• Insider's Travel Guide to Goa
• Goa Itinerary: Places to Visit in Goa in 3 Days
• Ultimate Guide to the South Goa Beaches

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28 Best Places to visit in North Goa 2024, ✔ List of Tourist places

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Goa > 28 Best Places to visit in North Goa 2024, ✔ List of Tourist places

Sparkling with sea, sand, and sunshine, North Goa welcomes you to a picturesque land of natural beauty. But if you thought this region is only about golden beaches and turquoise water, think again! Dotted with magnificent forts, ancient temples, gorgeous churches, electrifying party hotspots, famous shacks, buzzing flea markets, lavish casinos, and a host of other attractions, the place is truly a traveler’s delight. All you need to do is to step out of your hotels in North Goa and explore this kaleidoscopic destination. So are you ready to surrender yourself to the many experiences that await you? Check out some of the most captivating places to visit in North Goa in 2024 with location, images & timing.

1. Baga Beach

Baga Beach | #5 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

When it comes to having fun in North Goa, there can be no better destination than Baga Beach. Named after the Baga creek that makes its way to the Arabian Sea, Baga is the perfect place to enjoy a thrilling day and party late into the night by visiting the hangouts located right on the beach. From indulging in water sports to getting a tattoo done to street shopping, you can do it all here. With signature restaurants and cafes like Tito’s, Britto’s, and Mambos lining the beach, Baga definitely counts among the best party destinations in Goa.

• Must-try Activities: Motorboat ride, Scuba diving, Jetskiing, Water skiing, Banana ride, River cruise, Dolphin trip, Windsurfing, Water scooter

2. Calangute Beach

Calangute Beach | #6 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

It’s not without reason that Calangute is often referred to as the queen of beaches in Goa . Stretching from Baga to Candolim, this place is easily the most happening hub in North Goa. The beach here is a picturesque sight, which explains why it is almost always crowded. Be it beach fun during the day or jazzing parties during the night, Calangute ticks the boxes for everything. It is also one of the best spots in North Goa for a great shopping experience, thanks to the buzzing street market here.

• Must-try Activities: Speed boat rides, Parasailing, Jetskiing, Water surfing, Banana ride

3. Anjuna Beach

Anjuna Beach | #3 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

Glowing white sands, adventurous water sports, and a scintillating nightlife, that’s Anjuna for you. One of the most popular beaches in the northern part, Anjuna embodies all that Goa stands for. If the rocky shore seems enticing during the day, wait till the night kisses this place and it awakens with a party vibe. Adding to the appeal of the beach is the flea market held here every Wednesday, which is a top draw among the tourists.

• Must-try Activities: Scuba diving, Snorkeling, Windsurfing, Parasailing, Water skiing, Banana ride, Water scooter, Dolphin Sighting

Also read: Best Places to Travel in April in India

4. arambol beach.

Arambol Beach | #9 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

A spectacular beach with a distinct Bohemian vibe, Arambol exemplifies the perfect blend of scenic beauty and serenity. This rocky-cum-sandy beach is counted among the less-crowded beaches in Goa, which makes it ideal for you to spend some romantic moments with your special someone and indulge in some amazing water-based activities. You can even shop for knick-knacks and junk jewelry from the small shops lining the beach or have a drink or two at one of the shacks surrounding the beach.

• Activities: Dolphin sighting trips, Paragliding, Swimming

Also Read: Beaches in South Goa

5. candolim beach.

Candolim Beach | #7 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

Tranquil ambiance, thrilling water sports, and an enchanting nightlife make Candolim one of the most appealing beaches to explore in the north. You won’t find much commercial activity around this place, but the spellbinding beauty of the beach more than makes up for it. If you are looking forward to enjoying adventurous water-based activities in a calm and serene beach, Candolim is your best bet. 

• Must-try Activities: Water scooter, Dolphin sighting trips, Banana ride, Jetskiing, Water surfing

Also check:  North Goa vs. South Goa

6. deltin royale.

Deltin Royale | #24 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

Recreating a vibe akin to Las Vegas, Deltin Royale boasts of being the largest luxury floating casino in Goa . This lavish casino spread over 40,000 sq. ft. is a gamer’s paradise. There are more than 850 gaming positions covering three levels. Complete with a trendy whiskey lounge and a gourmet restaurant, the place promises you hours of non-stop fun, play, and entertainment.

• Location : Noah’s Ark, RND Jetty, Panaji
• Entry fee: ₹ 1500 to ₹ 8000

7. Basilica of Bom Jesus

Basilica of Bom Jesus | #11 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

For an ardent traveler or a history buff, the name Basilica of Bom Jesus needs no introduction. One of the UNESCO Heritage Sites in Goa, the church dates back to over 400 years and boasts of Portuguese style of architecture. Guess what’s the key attraction here? The mummy of St. Xavier which is taken out for public viewing every ten years! You can also see a collection of paintings related to the life of the St. Xavier and relics of other saints such as Jesuit Rudolf Acquaviva and Antoni Francisci.

Read our blog on why Basilica of Bom Jesus is the best church in Goa to know more about this magnificent church.

• Location: Old Goa Road

          Monday to Saturday – 09.00 am to 06.30 pm           Sundays – 10.30 am to 06.30 pm

8. Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort | #1 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

Chapora Fort captured the attention of wanderlust souls around the country when it was featured in the Bollywood blockbuster Dil Chahta Hai . So much so that many people now refer to it as the Dil Chahta Hai Fort. Dating back to 1717, the fort was a silent witness to the various historical events that unfolded here over the ages. Standing above a hill-top near the Chapora River, it offers excellent views of the surrounding areas and is definitely worth a visit.

• Location: Chapora
• Timings: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, every day

Explore recommended places to stay in Goa at best price

9. Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach | #2 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

A stunning beach with dramatic red cliffs adorning the shore, Vagator presents a breath-taking sight. The beach here is split into two main beaches, namely Big Vagator and Little Vagator. It is the perfect place to put your feet up and enjoy your dose of sun, sand, and sea. But if you are up to some water fun, Vagator has plenty of options including jet skiing and parasailing. You can also enjoy lovely sunsets and look forward to a wonderful nightlife .  

• Must-try Activities : Jetskiing, Parasailing, Dolphin watching

10. Casino Pride

Casino Pride | #25 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

Casino Pride is another floating gaming heaven that entices you with its golden-hued decor and a mind-blowing ambience. It is spread over three floors and has a plethora of exciting games for enthusiasts. A well-appointed bar, restaurants that serve multi-cuisine dishes, and barbeque, all add to the appeal of this fantastic casino. There’s even a kid’s zone to keep your children busy with exciting electronic games and gizmos.

• Location : Captain of Ports Jetty, Panaji
• Monday to Thursday – ₹ 1500 per adult (with₹ 500 worth coupon)
• Friday to Sunday – ₹ 2000 per adult (with ₹ 1000 worth coupon)     

*Includes alcoholic drinks and unlimited buffet

11. Sinquerim Beach

Sinquerim Beach | #8 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

The gorgeous Sinquerim Beach beckons you to a scenic sandy shoreline. Apart from enjoying a host of water-based sports and adventurous activities, you can also indulge in swimming. More often than not, nightlife on this beach is marked with music festivals. Sinquerim also boasts of a number of restaurants serving excellent food and beverages, making it a preferred destination for foodies.

• Must-try Activities: Scuba diving, Windsurfing, Water skiing, Dolphin sighting trips, Jetskiing, Swimming, Paragliding

Also Read: Awesome Places to Visit in Panjim for Every Type of Traveller

12. Fort Aguada

Anjuna Beach | #4 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

Majestic is the word that best defines Fort Aguada, one of the famous forts in Goa . The imposing fort enjoys a strategic location even as the waves of the Arabian Sea play along its lofty walls. Steeped in history, this colossal fort dates back to the 17 th century and offers a spectacular view of the sea that spreads in front of it. Among the main attractions of the fort are a series of prison cells and an ancient lighthouse, which is the oldest one of its kind in Asia. 

• Location: Candolim
• Timings: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm, every day

13. Goa State Museum

Goa State Museum | #18 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

If you are interested in unraveling the glorious past of Goa, head off to Goa State Museum. The place is a treasure of artifacts and boasts of more than 8000 relics. You can discover a wonderful world of rock statues, Jain sculptures, bronze artworks, exceptional silver coins, and a host of other fascinating exhibits. 

• Location:  Panaji
• Timings: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm; closed on Saturdays and Sundays

14. Reis Magos Fort

Reis Magos Fort | #10 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

Standing on a hilltop, Reis Magos Fort has played many roles in its long history spreading over more than four and a half centuries. From serving as a residence for viceroys and other significant personalities to being a prison and then lying as an abandoned fort, Reis Magos Fort has seen many chapters of history unfold within its walls. Today, the fort serves as a cultural center and draws in a large number of tourists.

• Location: Bardez
• Timings: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays

15. Anjuna Flea Market

Anjuna Flea Market | #21 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

Counted among the best markets in Goa , this flea market comes alive on the Anjuna Beach every Wednesday. This beachfront market is where you can buy souvenirs, knick-knacks, funky jewelry, beachwear, wall hangings, and Nepali and Tibetan goods at throw-away prices. There are also several food stalls, body piercing centers, live music, and other entertainment activities in and around the market. Remember, the market is open only from October to May, so plan your visit accordingly.

• Location: Anjuna
• Timings: 08.00 am to 06:00 pm; every Wednesday    
• What to Buy: Tibetan Goodies, Jewelry, Souvenirs, Handicraft Items, Footwear, Clothes

16. Curlie’s Beach Shack

Counted among the most happening hangout spots on the Anjuna Beach, Curlie’s is an enticing beach shack that features restaurants, bars, indoor club, tea house, and a sea-view veranda as well. Apart from wine and dining facilities, the shack also offers various water sports facilities. The shack serves excellent Goan, Continental, Italian, and North Indian dishes. Don’t forget to taste their Roast Pork, Shakshouka, Paneer Tikka, and cocktails.

• Timings: 8:30 am to 3:00 am; every day
• Cost for two: ₹ 1500 (approx.)

17. Mangeshi Temple

Mangeshi Temple | #15 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

One of the largest and most famous temples in Goa , Mangeshi boasts of spellbinding Goan temple architecture style. Its columns, domes, and balustrades lend the temple a distinct beauty. Lord Mangesh, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, is the reigning deity here. Among the main attractions of the temple are a lovely water tank and a seven-story octagonal lamp tower.

• Location: Mangeshi Village
• Timings: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm; every day

18. Mahalakshmi Temple

Religious or not, you can’t help admiring the architectural splendor of Mahalakshmi Temple, an ancient temple in North Goa that traces its origins to the 15 th century. Adorned with a pillared hall and a silver arched doorway, the temple features an idol of Goddess Lakshmi crafted out of black stone. Adding to the beauty of the temple are twenty-four wooden panels displaying scenes from the Bhagavata Purana .

• Location: Bandivade
• Timings:  6:30 am to 8:30 pm; every day

19. The Church of Mae De Deus

The Church of Mae De Deus | #12 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

An exemplary example of Gothic architecture, the Church Of Mae De Deus is a charming story etched in stone. Adorned with pristine white walls and lofty spires, it seems to be a structure straight out of a children’s fairy tale book. What makes this church even more special is the fact that it is home to the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus (Mother of God). The church offers an incredibly beautiful illuminated view at night.

• Location: Saligao
• Timings: 9:00 am to 12:30 pm, 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm; every day

20. The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

The Church | #13 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception boasts of a majestic structure, marked by its spectacular double flight of steps zigzagging its way upward. Located on a hillside and overlooking the capital city of Panaji, the lovely white structure is a sight to behold. It houses the ancient bell that was once a part of the Church of Our Lady of Grace. It is said to be the second largest bell of its kind in Goa.

• Location: Panaji
• Timings: 9:00 am to 12:30 pm, 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm; every day

21. Chapel of St. Catherine

The Chapel of St. Catherine exhibits simple Renaissance style architecture, but it has immense historical significance. This edifice owes its origin to the Portuguese general Afonso de Albuquerque, who commissioned its construction in 1510 to commemorate his victorious march into the city. If you are a history buff, you will definitely love exploring this church.

• Location: Taleigao
• Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day

To know more, read our blog on the major UNESCO heritage churches in Goa , collectively called ‘the Churches and Convents of Goa’?

22. Temple of Bodgeshwar

The Temple of Bodgeshwar is an exquisite structure situated amidst lush green surroundings. The temple is dedicated to Kanakeshwar Baba or Bodgeshwar, also known as Bongini. In complete contrast to the hip and happening façade of North Goa, this small shrine exudes tranquility and is an ideal place to spend a few hours soaking in the serene vibes.

• Location:  Calangute
• Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm; every day

23. Houses of Goa Museum

Fascinated by the architectural beauty of Goa? Then you must visit the Houses of Goa Museum. Unlike other museums in Goa , this museum offers a peek into the evolution of houses in Goa and its surrounding areas. Interestingly, the museum itself is shaped like a ship and stands right in the middle of the road.

• Location:  Torda, Salvador Do Mundo
• Timings:  10:00 am to 7:30 pm; closed on Mondays

          Adults – ₹ 100 per person           Children – ₹ 25 per person

24. Museum of Christian Art

Christianity has played an undeniable role in the history and culture of Goa and the Museum of Christian Art is where you can get a glimpse into this rich history. The museum showcases many relics that are as old as the Portuguese invasion of the region. From statues and furniture to ivory, paintings, and precious metals, you will find a wide range of interesting exhibits here.

• Location:  Velha Goa
• Timings:  9:30 am to 5 pm; closed on Sundays
• Entry fee: ₹ 30 per person

25. Mapusa Market

On most days, this market is like any other Goan market. But on Fridays, the place turns into a buzzing marketplace where you can experience the real appeal of shopping in a traditional Goan bazaar. You can find all sorts of stuff to buy here, ranging from fruits and vegetables to jewelry and apparel. Do not hesitate to take out your haggling skills to seal the best deal.

• Timings:   6:00 am to 8:00 pm; closed on Sundays
• What to buy: Goa’s famous ‘chouricos’ sausages, spices, handicrafts

26. Arpora Night Market

Arpora Night Market | #22 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

One of the most exciting things to do in North Goa is to visit the lively Saturday night market at Arpora. The bustling place is a shopaholic’s paradise, where you can find a variety of items ranging from local handicrafts to designer garments. A number of food stalls selling mouth-watering delicacies add to the appeal of the place. 

• Location: Arpora
• Timings:   6:00 pm to midnight; only on Saturdays
• What to buy: Apparels, Handbags, Rugs, Handicrafts

27. Britto’s Shack

With an extensive menu covering 400 dishes selected from various cuisines, Britto’s Shack comes across as a heaven for the foodies. You can dig into authentic Goan food at this place even as you enjoy an amazing view of the Baga beach and the turquoise water. Jumbo Prawns, Butter Chicken, Smoothie Chocolate, cocktails, and mocktails are some of their signature items.

• Location: Baga
• Timings: 8:00 am to 12:00 midnight; every day
• Cost for two: ₹ 1400 (approx.)

28. Restaurants and Pubs

Restaurants and Pubs | #28 of 28 Places to Visit in North Goa

The land of the sun and sand has a number of restaurants and pubs where you can chill out over sumptuous food, drinks, and music. Here are a few must-visit restaurants and pubs in North Goa:

Restaurants in North Goa

Bhatti village.

• Location: Bhatti Waddo, Nerul
• Timings : 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm; every day
• Cost for two: ₹ 500 (approx.)

Tuscany Gardens

• Location: Near Kingfisher Villa, Candolim
• Timings: 4:00 am to 11:00 pm; closed on Tuesdays
• Cost for two: ₹ 1000 (approx.)
• Location: Satt-Adhar Complex, Mapusa
• Timings: 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm; 7:30 pm to 11:00 pm; every day
• Cost for two: ₹ 900 (approx.)
• Location: Ozran Beach, Vagator
• Timings: 10:00 am to 11:30 pm; every day

Pubs and bars in Goa:

Soro – the village pub.

• Location:   Vagator, Assagao, Bardez
• Timings:  6:00 pm to 2:00 am 
• Cost for two:  ₹ 1,200 (approx.)
• Location: Calangute – Baga Road
• Timings: 7:30 am to 12:30 am
• Cost for two:  ₹ 1,700 (approx.)

Watson’s Grub Pub

• Timings: 11:00 am to 1:00 am
• Cost for two:  ₹ 1,000 (approx.)

Whether you are traveling with your friends, family, or solo, you can always expect to spend a wonderful time in North Goa. The place has enough attractions to entice every kind of traveler. So, pack your bags and let the Goa diaries begin!

Also Read: Trekking Places in Goa

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15 Best Places To Visit In North Goa In Less Budget

Goa – A place of craziness for many. It is not just famous among Indian travellers but also attracts people from foreign countries. And youngsters? Every one of you may have created WhatsApp groups several times just for the Goa trip planning. It is because Goa has a totally different charm. Some may prefer going to the party-filled beaches. And some go to get relaxation on the pristine beaches.

Nonetheless, Goa has a lot to offer every taste of travellers. And generally, people divide their Goa trip as “South Goa trip” or “North Goa Trip”. That is because of the different types of experiences they have. And whether to choose South Goa or North Goa depends on travel preferences and the kind of experience you seek.

If solitude, relaxation, and unspoiled beauty beckon, South Goa’s tranquil beaches and serene atmosphere await your discovery. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to vibrant energy, water sports, and a lively cultural scene, North Goa’s bustling beaches and dynamic markets promise an adventure like no other.

So in this article, we will take you to the top 15 places to visit in North Goa on your next trip.

Table of Contents

15 Must Places To Visit In North Goa

North Goa is a place for relaxation and adventure, with its lovely atmosphere and scenic landscapes. It entertains everyone – a beach lover, a history buff, or simply seeking vibrant experiences. In this article, we’ll guide you through the must-visit places that will ensure your trip to North Goa is unforgettable.

Baga Beach  is not just a beach; it’s an experience that encapsulates the spirit of Goa . The pristine shoreline is adorned with shacks serving delectable seafood and refreshing beverages. As the sun dances on the Arabian Sea, adventure enthusiasts can indulge in thrilling water sports such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. When the night falls, Baga transforms into a party haven with neon lights, music, and dance until dawn.

Calangute Beach

Adjacent to Baga Beach lies  Calangute Beach , often called the “Queen of Beaches.” This stretch of coastline offers a medley of activities and experiences. Whether strolling along the shoreline, basking in the sun, or participating in water sports like windsurfing and parasailing, Calangute caters to every beach lover’s desire. The beach is also flanked by bustling markets, where you can shop for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts.

Anjuna Flea Market

Embrace the vibrant and colourful atmosphere of the  Anjuna Flea Market . Every Wednesday, this bustling market comes to life with a kaleidoscope of stalls offering an eclectic range of products. From clothing and accessories to jewellery and home decor, the market is a treasure trove for shoppers seeking unique, handmade items. It’s not just a shopping expedition; it’s a cultural experience that showcases the bohemian side of Goa.

Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada is a must-visit destination for a taste of history and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Built-in the 17th century by the Portuguese, this fortress stands as a sentinel guarding the coastline. The fort complex houses a lighthouse and several impressive structures, including a freshwater reservoir that could store up to 10 million litres of water. As you explore the fort’s stone pathways and cannons, you’ll be transported to a time when Goa was a strategic trading hub.

Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort  is a historical monument and an iconic spot for Bollywood enthusiasts. Perched atop a hill, the fort offers breathtaking views of the Vagator Beach and the Chapora River. The fort’s ruins exude a rustic charm, and visitors often reminisce about the iconic scenes from the movie “Dil Chahta Hai” filmed here. The trek up to the fort is rewarding hikers with a sense of accomplishment and stunning vistas.

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Hidden amidst the Western Ghats, the  Dudhsagar Waterfalls  present a breathtaking natural spectacle. The falls, which translate to “Sea of Milk,” cascade down from a height, creating a frothy white appearance. Dudhsagar is a favourite spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers, surrounded by lush greenery and a picturesque landscape. Whether swimming in the cool waters or simply soaking in the view, Dudhsagar is a testament to the raw beauty of Goa’s wilderness.

Mapusa Market

For an authentic Goan shopping experience,  Mapusa Market  is a vibrant hub of activity. This bustling market is a sensory delight, with stalls offering everything from fresh produce and spices to textiles and antiques. Engage in friendly haggling as you explore the narrow lanes brimming with colour and culture. The market provides a glimpse into the daily lives of locals, and you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavours of Goa.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus  is a testament to Goa’s spiritual heritage and architectural marvels. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a sublime example of Baroque architecture. It houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. The ornate interiors and serene ambience create a profound sense of reverence, making it a pilgrimage site for devotees and history enthusiasts alike.

Museum of Christian Art

Nestled within the Basilica complex, the  Museum of Christian Art  is a repository of artistic and historical treasures. The museum showcases a captivating collection of artefacts that illustrate the fusion of Christian influence with Indian art forms. From intricately carved ivory sculptures to Portuguese paintings, the exhibits offer insights into the cultural crossroads Goa has witnessed over the centuries.

Candolim Beach

For a serene beach experience, head to  Candolim Beach . This stretch of shoreline offers a peaceful ambience, perfect for leisurely walks and moments of introspection. The beach is fringed by swaying palm trees, and its gentle waves invite you to dip your toes into the Arabian Sea. Candolim Beach is an oasis of serenity away from the bustling crowds, where you can unwind and rejuvenate.

Morjim Beach

Morjim Beach , often called “Turtle Beach,” is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Apart from its golden sands and azure waters, the beach is a nesting ground for the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles. Visitors can witness the unique sight of baby turtles making their way to the sea, a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and nature’s wonders.

Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach  seamlessly blends the rhythm of the sea with the beats of music festivals. The beach is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and is a hotspot for music enthusiasts. It hosts various events, from trance parties to electronic dance music festivals. The iconic Chapora Fort in the backdrop adds to the charm of the beach, creating a picturesque setting for memorable evenings.

Ashwem Beach

Ashwem Beach  is a tranquil haven that invites you to unwind and soak in serenity. The beach’s pristine sands and clear waters offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s ideal for sunbathing, leisurely strolls, and reflective moments by the sea. The absence of large crowds ensures a peaceful retreat, connecting you with the natural beauty that defines Goa’s coastline.

Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach  is a bohemian paradise that captures the free-spirited essence of Goa. Known for its artistic and alternative vibe, the beach hosts vibrant drum circles, live music performances, and yoga sessions. It’s a favourite among backpackers and creative souls seeking a unique blend of relaxation and artistic expression. The laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking sunsets make Arambol a truly enchanting destination.

North Goa’s charm lies in its diverse offerings, from lively beaches and historical sites to serene getaways. It caters to different preferences, making it an ideal destination for a fulfilling vacation. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of North Goa.

Gayatri Lohit

A simple girl from Ilkal, where threads weave tales of timeless beauty (Ilkal Sarees). I embark on journeys both inward and across distant horizons. My spirit finds solace in the embrace of nature's symphony, while the essence of spirituality guides my path.

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// Goa // North Goa

19 Mind-Blowing Places to Visit in North Goa for the Best Trip Ever

by middha on April 18, 2018

Goa is a district very notably divided into two hubs, the north and the south. Among these, North Goa is the one which is considered to be the party hub, the hippie paradise and the shopping centre and quite accurately so, but there is much more of it.

When it comes to North Goa, the beauty, the tranquillity and the vivid culture, everything makes its distinct presence felt quite easily. To understand it all better glance on to the list of some of the best places to visit in North Goa compiled below.

19 Finest Places to Visit in North Goa

Spectacular beaches of north goa, 1. vagator beach.

Vagator Beach, North Goa

One of the most beautiful beaches of the state of Goa, the Vagator Beach is simple calm and exquisite. Not among the very long beaches, this beach offers sightseeing, water sports and shopping too.

The distinguished beauty of this beach is hard to describe in words but at best can be put into its fundamentals like the fringing palms, the golden sands and the pristine waters. The spotting of rocks along the beach is a feature that adds quite a touch of grace to the beach.

Suggested to Read : Cleanest beaches in goa

2. Ashwem Beach

Ashwem Beach

Quite the hit among the non-residents of the land who have ventured on for long stays, this beach beautiful and quiet. Though swimming here is considered risky and unsafe yet it has not hampered the likeness of the place.

Further, the mellow vibe and the quiet surroundings of this place make it one of the most sought-after beaches by the tourists looking for some solitude.

Also Read : Hidden beaches in goa

3. Miramar Beach

Miramar Beach

One of the most popular beaches of Goa, the Miramar Beach is the ultimate destination if looking for some tranquillity and solitude. The exquisite beauty of this beach has made it the top places in North Goa to visit.

Other than the solitude and the beauty, this beach is the hub of shops in the area too which makes it ideal for shopping local crafts too.

4. Anjuna Beach

Anjuna Beach in North Goa

Stretching up to a distance of about 2kms the Anjuna Beach is charismatic and mesmerising. Often surprisingly quiet, this beach is among the narrow beaches of the Goa.

The beauty of this place is owed to the varied terrain of the place which ranges from the low rocky cliffs to the village area down below the flea market.  This beach is most famous for its flea market which gives the true taste of the hippie culture of Goa.

Must Read : 19 Best Things To Do In Goa

5. Calangute Beach

Calangute Beach in North Goa

The hub of North Goa, the Calangute Beach is also called the queen of beaches by many tourists. Shopping hub of the place, this beach is also among the beaches most known for their handicraft collections.

Other than shopping, the Calangute beach is the most sought-after beach to experience the beach shacks and water sports that the place has to offer. Ideal for relaxing and observing the crowd in and crowd out through the day, this beach is a must visit when in Goa.

6. Mandrem Beach

Mandrem Beach

Being one of the slightest populated beaches of the north Goa, the Mandrem Beach is the right example for the beaches untouched by the commercialization of the place. This beach is most renowned for its pleasing views.

To reach this beach you cross a short rickety bamboo bridge as this beach is separated from the road by a narrow river inlet which further adds to the glamour of the beach.

7. Morjim Beach

Morjim Beach in North Goa

Once among the deserted beaches of Goa, the Morjim Beach is another one of the most beautiful beaches of Goa. Also inhabiting the olive ridley turtles, the southern end of this beach is protected for the sea animals.

The casually laid out beach benches and beach shacks along this beach provide the right equipment to chill. The rushing tides and waves of the place further amplify its beauty.

Indulgence at Markets of North Goa

8. anjuna flea market.

Anjuna Flea Market

This little flea held at the Anjuna beach is nothing short of a carnival itself. Held weekly, this little flea proves to be the true sight of the culture of the Goa.

Established mainly in the 1960’s to be a place for music and parties for the hippies of the state, this market today is no less than a fashion street. Be it souvenirs, fancy clothes, distinguished artefacts or the best of the local cuisine, you will find it here at the Anjuna beach every Wednesday.

Also Read : 30 Popular Places To Visit In Goa on Your Next Vacation

9. Arpora Saturday Night Market

Arpora Saturday Night Market

Like the flea in Anjuna, the Arpora market is also a weekly affair, but this market livens up every Saturday. From the archetypical spice stalls of the country to some of the best cuisines from around the world, this market has it all.

Quite the spot over the weekend, this market sets up around 6 pm and runs into late nights. The setup of the market is another commendable feature that it boasts of. The place is set in the form of the lane after lane meandering their way through the ground. This sprawling has to be one of the best tourist spots in north Goa for late nights.

10. Mapusa Market

Mapusa Market

Another one of the weekly markets of Goa, the Mapusa market is alive each Friday. This market plays a host to selling almost everything from sausages to fishes, from Rajasthani and Gujarati handmade bags to Kashmiri shawls.

Other than being the shopping hub, the place is also famous for its distinguished restaurants serving the authentic Goan delectables. This market opens up at around 9 am and shuts at around sunset.

Also Read : 20 Perfect Things to Do in North Goa

11. Bicholim

Bicholim (source)

The hub for pottery in the state, the Bicholim market is a must visit for pottery lovers. The best place to buy some souvenirs, this place is the house of the famous Goan pottery.

Distinguished on the lines of the products it offers, this market is unique and appealing in its own regard.  At this market, you can find handmade Goan products, pottery, woodwork, bamboo crafts, brassware and terracotta items.

Places of Historical Significance in North Goa

12. goa state museum.

Goa State Museum (source)

The rich history and vivid culture of a place like Goa are easily visible as soon as you land here but if you wish to delve further into the inception of such culture in this region then the state museum of Goa is your place to be.

Among the famous North Goa tourist places, the Goa museum has over 8000 relics all of which help you get a better peek into its history. These relics include rock statues, wood made items, bronzes, artwork, Jain scriptures, unusual silver coins and an anthropological collection.

Also Read : Haunted Places in goa

13. Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada

Standing tall over a side of Goa, the Aguada Fort is among the best north Goa places to visit when in the state. The fort houses a lighthouse and the jail, both of which have become quite distinguished tourist attractions in themselves.

This fort was built in the year 1612 to protect the Dutch from the invasions by the British, and even today the fort is an inexplicable sight, providing some of the best panoramic views of the region.

14. Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort

Owing its origin to the seventeenth century, the Chapora Fort was built as a watch post to the border of this region. Though now the fort lies in ruins, it has a certain charm about itself which cannot be denied.

This fort proves to be the excellent viewpoint of the Vagator as well as the Anjuna beach. Rough and scenic, this fort is an excellent place to test your photography skills.

Also Read : 4 Amusement Parks in Goa for Unlimited Fun

15. The Church Of Mae De Deus

Mae De Deus Church

One of the best examples of the gothic architecture of the time, the Church Of Mae De Deus is a famous North Goa place to visit. The architecture, when combined with the serenity and tranquillity of the place, makes for quite a place to visit. The illuminated view of the church during the evening is definitely a not to be missed sight.

Must Read : 21 of the Best & Famous Churches in Goa to Consider Visiting

16. Temple of Bogdeshwara

Temple of Bogdeshwara (source)

One important temple of north Goa, the temple of Bogdeshwara is commendable on quite a few grounds. The building for one is exquisitely beautiful.

Other than the commendable architecture of the place, the simplicity, the vibe and the serenity of the temple, is enough to turn you into a much calmer version of yourself. The splendid temple is such that you never mind spending hours inside it watching the different rituals performed.

Must Read : 10 Famous Temples in Goa for the Believer in You

Best Casinos in North Goa

17. casino palm.

Casino Palm (source)

When in Goa how can you give gambling a miss? One of the only places in India where gambling is allowed, Goa plays a host of distinguished casinos. Among these several casinos, Casino Palm is among the top contenders for being hip and happening.

This casino is situated by the Baga Beach which in itself is quite the hub of party culture of the place, further the number of games and the machines it offers make it a worth visiting place.

Also Read : Casions in goa

18. MV Caravela

MV Caravela (source)

One of the very first beach gambling clubs in the country, the MV Caravela is a must visit because it combines the fun of the both, the water and the casino.

This casino is literally a 215ft. Long voyage of a casino which floats over the Mandovi River. Docked at Panaji, this casino has changed the way people view a casino in India.

19. Casino Pride

Casino Pride (source)

The best and literally means the best floating casino in the region, the Casino Pride is a must visit if looking for places in north Goa worth your visit. Known for its hospitality and high standards of gaming, this casino is a part of the Casino Pride Group.

The most distinguishing feature of this casino is that it offers the maximum number of Indian and international gambling games in India.

Being in Goa has to be an experience to be cherished but this experience is amplified much greater degrees once the right places to visit are known. North Goa has quite a lot to offer to the tourists as mentioned above.

If you have been to or have experienced the places mentioned above, we would love to hear your stories. Do share your suggestions and experiences with us in the comments section below.

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Places to Visit in North Goa

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places to Visit in North Goa

Here are some of the best places to visit in north goa:.

Baga Beach in Goa looks as though it has come straight out of a work of art. Lofty white waves hurrying to wipe out the prints of feet left by you on the white sand while the breeze keeps on playing with the palm trees is a sight to behold at this majestic beach in Goa. It is a decent place to appreciate some moments and abide in a serene consideration with oneself. It is counted as one of the best beaches in Goa where you can see wonderful.

Calangute Beach

Deserving every reason to be called the ‘Queen of Beaches’ in Goa, Calangute Beach is a paradise for nature lovers holding the spectacular beauty and charm. The beach reflects the unique Goan culture with a glorious view of the landscape serving as a perfect retreat for visitors. Here you can find the effervescent markets selling everything from beer, trinkets to pawns.

Top Experiences To Do in Calangute Beach

Anjuna Beach

Situated on the west coast of Goa by the Arabian Sea, Anjuna Beach is one of the best beaches in Goa. The hippies were the first people to come here in the 1950s and since then Anjuna Beach is a hotspot in Goa for local and international tourists. Anjuna Beach grows on you as you take a stroll along the glowing white sands and enjoy the sight of gently swaying palms in front of you.

Top Experiences To Do in Anjuna Beach

Fort Aguada

If you are in Goa and are looking for a party place bursting with nicer crowds and groovy music then Tito’s is the place for you. Famed for throwing the best theme parties in Goa, Tito’s has been gracefully leveling up the party scenes on Baga Beach. From drinks to snacks and from dance to music, this place has everything you need for a fun vacation in Goa.

Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach is one of the best beaches in Goa which provide a wholesome escapade offering everything like sightseeing, water sports, shopping and tranquility. The beach is mostly famous among Westerners and a permanent residence for many of them and it is the best places to visit in north goa in 1 day. Vagator Beach is the place that enchants people of all ages.

Top Experiences To Do in Vagator Beach

The Church Of Our Lady Of Immaculate Conception

‘Wow' is the one word that describes the church at first sight. Built-in 16th century, Portuguese style architecture speaks with a blow right here. Leading the main entry is the flight of stairs that rise like a floor above the floor. As the name is, the facade of the church is tarnished in immaculate, sparkling white colour and it is also one of the best places to visit in North Goa To your surprise, the interiors are decorated in a very calm manner, without any intricate or coloured details as seen in many other pilgrimage centres. Yet, the skills of the craftsmen could be seen at the graceful altar and sub-altar. Again, this location gives you a trivia of Bollywood that used this church as the background of various shots. A must visit a location, this is indeed not to miss tourist places in North Goa. Location: Within the main city of Panaji Timings: Every day from 9.00 AM – 12.30 PM and 3.30 PM – 7.30 PM Entry Fees: None!

Best of Goa

Grand Island

“The Grande Island” also known as the Ilha Grande is one of the most amazing discoveries in Goa. The Island is a house of Palm trees, jaw-dropping marine life experiences, and extraordinary sunsets. The Island is not only for the adventure buffs but is also a perfect destination for couples looking for a less crowded place with amazing facilities. One can indulge in sight-seeing, snorkeling, sea walk, swimming, and many more aqua activities. The outstanding activity which can be witnessed here is, Scuba diving which gives you a picture of the underwater kingdom making it one the most amazing places to visit in South Goa. Apart from these, one will also have instances when they can delve in dolphin sighting which is an amazing experience and cannot be experienced everywhere.

Top Experiences To Do in Grand Island

Anjuna Market

Let us give you a glimpse of why Anjuna Market is one of the utmost amazing tourist places in North Goa? Wednesday flea market that sells everything at a dirt cheap rate will bring one closer to this place. This place is so much livelier to chill at that you never want to leave it but alas, it's just a day in the week that it gains its prominence on. One can find here handmade clothing, jewellery, beach clothes, hammocks, Buddha or Shiva statues and anything that trance magic can provide you. Grab a drink, have some stall food, wear hippie jewellery and dive in a completely new era at Anjuna flea market. Timings: Wednesday, 8.00 AM to 8.00 PM Location: South end of Anjuna beach.

Deltin Royale Casino

Sinq Night Club

Top Experiences To Do in Sinq Night Club

Divar Island

What to say about Curlies shack that proudly gains tourists like anything at its service on Anjuna beach. Known for not only its glowing ambience but also the huge space it offers in form of a lounge, garden restaurant, bar, club zone, and open sea view platform. Travellers love to visit here for the heart throbbing parties and delicacies they serve with yummy cocktails. Curlies also provide stay options to its guests and water sports activities so you may call it all in one and one for all. Location: Very close to Anjuna flea market, you can find Curlies! Timings: Everyday 8.30 AM to 2.30 AM, all ready for your breakfast to party time Entry Fees: It only wants you to pay for the food and drinks you consume here! No entry fees required.

Chapora Fort

If you are looking for amazing places to visit in North Goa, it will make you land at Chapora fort which is lying in a little ruin state at the edge of Chapora river. The fort stood at its position long back for a military significance during a fight between Portuguese and Marathas, which later lost the value. Surrounded by steep walls, it gives breathtaking views from all the sides including Vagator beach, Chapora river and of course, deep blue ocean. This fort will take you on a memory lane of Bollywood movies for sure.

Best of South Goa

Mapusa Market

Another traditional and weekly market of Goa brings one step closer to a vibrant Mapusa market that takes place every Friday. Holding its grace within the Mapusa municipal market, get into the colours and noise and live the Goan charm distinctly. The market is known for jewellery, pottery, spice, and carpet shops. Not just this, you can also find a variety of delicacies to munch upon as well as take them back home. Take a whiff of fresh fishes, vegetable and meat along with cheap local wine that will turn the mood happy and hippie. Timings: Friday, 6.00 AM to 8.00 PM Location: Reach Mapusa Market Area in Panaji to shop at one of the best tourist places in North Goa Entry Fees: Pay for only the things you buy! There are no market entry fees, relax!

Sinquerim Beach

The scintillating Sinquerim Beach is an excellent shoreline that has a fabulous extend of sand and it is also one of the best North Goa places to visit. It is situated at the north of the well known shorelines like Baga, Calangute and Candolim. It is a perfect place for swimming and one ought not to miss going to this shoreline when vacationing in Goa to enjoy the beach activities.

Arvalem Waterfalls

A soothing and peaceful spot in Goa brings one near to Arvalem waterfalls which is excellent for picnics and outings. Cascading from the height of 50 m (24 ft), Arvalem is one of the top places to visit in North Goa. These falls make a plunge pool at the bottom where one can swim in and relax with cold waters. A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is also settled in the vicinity along with a well-maintained park where one can just sit and observe the deep beauty it possesses.

Arambol Beach

If you are wishing to spend some moments in solitude appreciating the exquisiteness of a pristine coastline, then Arambol Beach is the perfect place to be in Goa. It is relatively unexploited by tourists and perfect spot for going to enjoy a day in sun with your folks. Also known as Harmal Beach, the place is a heaven for those searching for some quietness and solitude. The shoreline has a long sandy extend with soft white sands.

Top Experiences To Do in Arambol Beach

Morjim Beach

Nestled in the midst of lush green surroundings, Morjim Beach is a delight that will leave you refreshed with its calm and serene ambience. If one is a fan of bird watching, Morjim Beach is one of the best beaches in Goa to spot several species like the Sand Plover, Bay-backed Shrike, Quill, Turnstones, Cuckoo, Kingfisher and Sandpipers can be seen in natural surroundings. Dolphin Sighting is another activity which you can indulge in at the Morjim Beach.

Top Experiences To Do in Morjim Beach

Mandrem Beach

Mandrem Beach is well known for its white sand and lines of palm trees that line the shoreline and pulls in an expansive number of visitors which is  quite peculiar, being one of the slightest populated beaches in Goa. Individuals, local people and vacationers travel from great distances from abroad and nationally just to appreciate the peace, calm and excellence of this beach. The water has the ideal temperature which makes it utterly cheerful to lie in the sun. it is a must visit place in Goa. Being a remote beach, you would not find many five star resorts and restaurants here. But there are some popular places like The Mandrem Beach Resort, Cuba Retreat Mandrem, Dunes Holiday Village, La Cabana Beach and Spa etc. Many popular Bollywood celebrities have been spotted at this pristine beach. Location:  Pernem Taluka, Mandrem Beach, North Goa Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: Approximate 20 km

Top Experiences To Do in Mandrem Beach

Ashwem beach.

Comparatively a lesser known beach among tourists, Ashwem Beach is ideal for tourists wishing to spend some alone time at a beautiful location. Ashvem has a lovely landscape known for its stones surrounding the beach carved by the shellfish. The view that the shoreline gives is a standout amongst the most wonderful sights at any point seen.

Best of Panjim

The Church Of Mae De Deus

This bright white building and Neo-Gothic architecture are so impulsive that just mesmerizes its beholders. One will surely get awestruck with the impact of peaceful beauty, settlement within the greenery and the aura it presents right from the first look to the same. Right from the exteriors to interiors, the church is certainly one of the best places to visit in North Goa. Interestingly, it houses the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus which brought the church back to life post its ruin state. With imposing interiors and carved ornamentation on ceiling and walls, the church magnetizes not just the religion followers but also those who love to praise the reality on the ground. Location: Chogm Rd, Saligao Timings: Gate to God’s own home opens up every day from 9.00 AM to 12.30 PM and from 3.00 PM to 5.00 PM. Entry Fees: Absolutely none!

Temple Of Bodgeshwara

Located on a drive of about 30 km from Panaji, Bicholim welcomes all with natural beauty like scenic waterfalls at Arvalem and famous Mayem Lake. The town is known for a good network of cashew trees apart from the lake and waterfalls. Ancient and historic aspects could be seen here with Hindu temple Saptakoteshwar and oldest mosque to pay our respects for making it one of the best places to visit in North Goa.  The economy of Goa gets a boost with iron ore mining and Bicholim surely contains huge spaces for the same. So, get your rented vehicle running and reach here to seek Goa in different limelight, away from parties and crowded beaches, buy some famous potteries and spend some time interacting with the locals

Location:  30 Km from Panaji towards the landmass of North Goa.

Froggyland Goa

Beat the heat with a visit to Froggyland the Water World, one of the best and the largest water parks in Goa. Experience a fun-filled day out as you indulge in thrilling rides, water slides and a wide array of attractions whilst being surrounded by Goa’s spectacular natural beauty and landscapes. 

Vainguinim Beach

Known for its silver sand seashore, Vainguinim Beach is an outstanding destination to visit.  Seeking for solitude? Then this beach is definitely a treasure for you with greenish blue water and exciting marine life. The beach has an array of trees which are housed by variants of birds and, is a part of most frequented North Goa places to visit. Location:  7 km south of Panaji Center, Panjim, India Timings:  You can visit anytime! Distance from Panjim Bus Stand:  Approximately 9.7 km

Mangueshi Temple

One of the largest and most visited temples in Goa, Mangueshi Temple has a sure shot grandeur that charms the devotees even from far away location. Keeping up with the pace of history, the Goan style of architecture comes to live here. A unique Deepastambha, which is a 7 storey octagonal lamp tower, is painted white with golden arches and catches the eye of the beholder. When illuminated at night, it's a place not to miss. Indeed, this temple is one of the best tourist places in north Goa and one shall surely drive towards it for paying respect as well as embracing the old architecture. Location: 22 km from Panaji Timings: Everyday, 6.00 AM to 10.00 PM Entry Fees: Rs.0.00!

Seated in the proximity of Panjim that is just 2 km away this alluring beach is home for various adventure activities. The beach is beautifully laced by the palm trees and here, one can enjoy the beautiful scenes nature has to offer, making it one of the most visited tourist places in Panjim. Boating is another activity which can be done at this beach other than the thrilling aqua sports. One can also, delve in scuba diving and explore the world beneath the land or can savor the thrill in water skiing and gliding. Apart from these, there will also be instances when you can witness dolphin sighting which will leave you in awe with the place. It is undoubtedly a picture-perfect beach offering a plethora of paradisiac views. Location: To Coco Beach Nerul, Goa 403114 Timings: All through the day Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: Approximately 9.7 km

Best of Andaman and Nicobar

Miramar Beach

"Golden beach” is what this beach is famed for which has an array of alluring palm trees and, is one of the must-see places in Panjim. Lying close to the confluence point of Mandovi river and the Arabian Sea this beach is an amazing place to delve in a relaxing aura. The freshness in the air is just splendid and, one experiencing this can rejuvenate each and every rim of the body. Reaching out to the beach and not witnessing a sunset and sunrise is just not fair! Here, you can witness the impressive spectrum of hue as the sun sets down. Not only this, but you also indulge in various adventure sports like jet-skiing, water gliding, water skiing and many more to add up to the enchanting experience. Location: 3 km from Panaji Centre | Near Dayanand Bandodkar Marg, Panjim, India Timings: All days of the week ( 12:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: Approximately 5 km

Goa State Museum

Those who love art, history, and culture shall not miss Goa State museum and observe a different set of antiques and an impressive collection of artefacts. Of all museums of Goa, this one exhibits items pertaining to religious expression, history of printing in the state, lottery printing, cultural anthropology, contemporary and Christian art, furniture, sculptures and information on Goa’s struggle for freedom. Gallery display is not the only thing you will find but also screenings for students on prior intimation. These screenings display short videos of various cultural, heritage and anthropological facts about Goa. Location: Mahatma Gandhi Road, Panaji Timings: Monday to Saturday , from 10.00 AM to 6.00 PM Entry Fees: To your surprise, it's none!

Siridao Beach

Also known as the Shiridon this beach of North Goa is one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Panjim. This course sand beach is famed as the “Shell Collectors Beach” lying in the mouth of Zuari river. Taking about shells, here you can find the most unique shells and a wide range of oysters and pearl shells. Embellished with rock and sand, at this beach you can also find some mysterious caves. To add up to the glam and charm of the Siridao Beach there is also a “Chapel of Jesus of Nazareth” seated at the top of the verdant hillock. The best time to visit this place is from October to March as at this time the beauty of the beach at its peak. Location: Near Zuari Estuary, Siridao, India Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: Approximately 9 km

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the northeastern region of Goa and teeming with a variety of flora and fauna, lies the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. The park sprawls over 8 square kilometers of lush lands and attracts hordes of tourists every year from different parts of the country. Besides harboring a myriad range of wildlife, the sanctuary is also home to those animals who have been injured due to some human-wildlife conflict. It also protects those who suffer the risk of extinction.

Thus, it happens to be one of the safest grounds for breeding animals and encourages research activities on them as well. Not very far from Margao, this picture-perfect sanctuary also has its exclusive deer park, botanical garden, and rose gardens. Thus, you can well understand why this wildlife park happens to be one of the most frequented zones by school children and nature lovers.

The soothing surroundings of the place encompassed within the enchanting hues of green and with the sunlight playing through the leaves will not only restore your mood but also rejuvenate your tired minds. You can relax in the bounty of nature, spend some quality moments with the animals, do some wildlife photography and enjoy the wildlife safari with your dear ones. The trip to Bondla will surely be worth your time and money and will serve as a refreshing change from the city’s cacophony.

If you are not time-bound, then a night stay at one of the forest cottages will surely turn out to be a thrilling experience. The beautiful cottages shrouded in an aesthetical aura lies in the heart of the wilderness where you can immerse yourself in the serenity of the forest at night. The rooms are well equipped with modern amenities and have attractive interiors that will offer you a comfortable stay. Thus, you can look forward to a memorable trip at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary with its spectacular environs.

Flora and Fauna at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

As you step into Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, the picturesque scenery around will leave you in absolute awe. The verdant patches of land flanked by towering deciduous trees and bamboo plantations add a mystical charm to the entire place. Some of the other trees that you will find here are Kindall, Jamba, Mimusops, Rosewood, Matti and many others. Clad with the intrinsic beauty of nature, the sanctuary will not fail to mesmerize you with its serenity.

As you travel along the trails of the forest, you will catch frequent glimpses of animals like bears, jungle cats, various types of deer, bison, Malabar Giant Squirrels, and others. You might be lucky enough to spot a panther too. Watch out for the exotic range of birds in the sanctuary. The commonly found ones are hornbills, woodpeckers, and kingfishers.

Top Experiences To Do in Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Benz Celebrity Wax Museum

Dona Paula Beach

A lover’s paradise, the name of the location got its designation after a tragic love story, making the place more interesting and catchy. This former village is a heaven on earth that provides picturesque spots and huge space for sunbathing while relaxing in the calm beaches adjacent to clean blue waters. Travellers love to be here to indulge in water sports like parasailing, kayaking etc. and gets the adrenaline rush at beaches like Dias beach and Dona Paula beach. Moreover, the markets for shopping are also vibrant and gets shiny names of food and drinking spots to attract visitors. For a perfect stay, one can also book their own resort or hotels here which are also loaded with amenities and good services. Location : 6 km from Panaji city.

Backwaters Of Chapora River

Experience Goa differently, away from the beaches and party spaces while taking a backwater ride in Chapora river. This ride may make you meet distinct birds and fishes along with the breathtaking sunset and sunrise. Coconut and palm trees will be your companion all through the trail and romantic time with your partner can just make the day spellbinding. Entry Fees: From a 2-hour boat ride to overnight stay in well-furnished rooms, packages vary accordingly.

Best of Gokarna

Chapora Beach

The wonderful Chapora beach in North Goa is an ideal spot for the leisure lovers and peace searchers. Catching the fishes with an astounding perspective of the lovely nightfall ahead is truly an alleviating background which you can witness at the Chapora Beach. One of the most important landmarks of Portuguese era, the Chapora Fort is located on the stretch of this beach.

It remains one of the most crowded beaches of Goa flocked with tourists looking for a calm stroll on the sand, sunbathing or enjoy the warm currents at the shore. Hungry tourists can find a number of restaurants and beach cafes near the Chapora beach that serve some flavorsome seafood and drinks.

  Water Sports:  Fishing, jet skiing, wind surfing, para gliding, ringo rides, para sailing, crocodile spotting at certain pre- defined locations and dolphin watching

Nightlife:  Sunita Bar, The 9 Bar, Camlin Bar And Restaurant, Sunset Bar And Restaurant, Big Chill Goa, Ferns Bar And Restaurant, Mango Tree Bar And Restaurant, Siddheshwar Darbar Bar And Restaurant, Green Bar And Restaurant, Nyan Bar, Disco Valley, 9 Bar, Helinda Bar And Restaurant

Location :  Chapora Beach, North Goa

Distance from Panaji: It is located at a distance of 21.1 km from Panaji. 

How to reach from Panaji:  The nearest railway station is at Karmali, just 11 km away from Panaji. From Panaji you can hire car or taxi to reach Chapora.

Kalacha Beach

Kalacha is a standout amongst the most picturesque beaches in North Goa. This shoreline IS situated toward the south of Querim beach and is known for its sweet water lagoon. Kalacha is renowned for its pleasant new water tidal pond and casual, bohemian vibe. Music sessions frequently happen around an open air fire and it becomes an extraordinary place to meet different voyagers. This is an untouched haven, far from the bother of merchants and expansive vacationer’s gatherings.

The untainted beach is encompassed by a background of overgrown, green slopes toward the end of the shoreline. You may be lucky to spot some entrancing natural life, for example, exotic birds and monkeys amidst the tropical foliage around the lake.

Water Sports: Paragliding, Hang Gliding

Nightlife: Most often beach parties and live music sessions are spontaneously arranged by backpackers.

Location : Kalacha Beach, Pernem, North Goa

Distance from Panaji: Panaji is 42 kilometers away from Kalacha Beach.

How to reach from Panaji: Kalacha Beach is connected to Panaji via Mapusa to Arambol beach. From Arambol Beach, one can easily take a bus or walk along the northern part to reach Kalacha. Buses leave for Arambol from Mapusa every hour from 6 AM till 7 PM. The beach is then accessible only via foot.

Ozran Beach

Ozran shoreline is a standout amongst the most picturesque Goan Beaches. This beach is particularly a hotspot for foreign sightseers and boasts of a postcard perfect view of the coastline. Because of its confined area, frequently voyagers come here to make an escape from the whole murmur drum around them and go back revived and upbeat.

This secluded beach is an extension of the famous Vagator Beach. The rocky beach is an ideal spot for picnics where you can enjoy the scenic beauty under the shade of palm trees. Here you can enjoy the sunsets as the sky turns golden from the sundecks outside the beach shacks. Tourists also engage in sports like volleyball and football at the beach. One of the attractions on this beach is the rock sculpture which people popularly call the Shiva Face which was carved by one of the tourists.

Water Sports:  Water scooters, Banana boat rides, Swimming, Fishing

Nightlife: Mezcal, Mango Tree, Disco Valley, Tin Tin Bar, The Alcove

Location : Ozran Beach, Bardez, North Goa

Distance from Panaji: It is located at a distance of 20 km from Panaji. 

How to reach from Panaji: Ozran Beach which is more or less a part of Vagator Beach is connected to Panaji through Mapusa and Calangute. You can easily catch a bus or drive by yourself to reach the Vagator Beach and then visit the Ozran Beach.

Top Experiences To Do in Ozran Beach

Anjuna flea market.

Anjuna Flea market is a hippie’s paradise in Goa where you can find a treasure trove of souvenirs, handicrafts, hippie clothes, and trinkets at a drift cheap rate. This weekly market started in the 1960s as a way for the hippie travelers to barter their unique products.

In the beginning, it was called the open-air goods exchange market by the locals, but now it has become a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. Earlier, this flea market was organized on a small area of the beach, but now it extends from the golden shores of the beach to the paddy fields with plenty of stalls selling tidbits.

If you’re looking for the best Tibetian and Nepali goods, then there can’t be anything better than visiting this flea market. You can also get your hair colored or your body pierced at the stalls in this market area. If you’re in Goa, then you must get some time off from chilling and raving to unfold the unique essence of this flea market that bustles with liveliness and Goan flavors.

This beachfront market is held every Wednesday at Anjuna Beach, and you’ll find this place abuzz with music, dance, and parties even late at night. It also has some great acrobatic activities and food stalls to further accelerate the fun quotient of your trip.

This market runs till the wee hours of the night and gives the liberty to the shoppers to shop until the core of their heart. The only skills you’ll need here is bargaining to get the products that you intend to buy at a pocket friendly price. 

Querim Beach

This disconnected beach draws in less guests, and in this manner less hawkers than most Goa shorelines. On the off chance that you long for a void shoreline with pleasant scene, this is the place for you. Dotted with historical structures, this beach is found quite recently north of Arambol beach which is popular among the hippies and Russians.

It is one of the most tranquil beaches and ideal for unwinding as it is still obscure to the world and is separated without any vacationers. This beach is also the spot where Terekhol River joins the ocean. Barely any rough outcrops and columns of pine trees finish the scene of this place. You can spend your day under a shady tree watching the waves slamming on the shore and drinking coconut water at Querim Beach on your vacation.

Water Sports: Paragliding is a popular water sport here. Swimming is not advisable at Querim Beach.

Nightlife : Here you can find some entertainment at night on the beach shacks.

Location : Querim Beach, North Goa

Distance from Panaji: Querim Beach is located at a distance of 50 kilometers from Panaji.

How to reach from Panaji: Querim Beach is well connected via bus from Panaji. You can drive by yourself to reach the Querim Beach by your own vehicle.

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12 Most Popular Places in North Goa You Should Visit

North Goa is the best destination for you if you are planning for a vacation in a place where you can chill out the best possible ways by partying hard with the finest food & drinks. Lovely beaches with alluring nature’s views, refreshing shacks, verdant cliffs, exotic cuisine and trendy shopping areas make it a happening place for tourists from all over the world. Once you land in this charming place, you are immediately enraptured by the mesmerizing ambience of this place.

Table of Contents

Find below 12 best places for your North Goa trip must-visit destinations

Aguada beach.

Aguada Beach is one of the major tourist spots in North Goa where the famous Aguada fort stands on a cliff. You can not only enjoy peaceful walks on the beach, but you can also opt for adventurous activities here. Aguada resort on this beach is popular resort for travellers prefer to stay in order to hang out and explore the place.

Places you can visit: Aguada Fort, Lighthouse, Goa State Museum, St. Lawrence Church, Coco Beach

Activities you can enjoy: Beach walking, Shopping, Sightseeing, Snorkelling, Boating, Parasailing, Picnic, and Jet Skiing etc.

Read Also: Goa Top Beaches to See with family

Calangute Beach

Due to its immense popularity amongst the tourists, this place is popularly known as “The Queen of the Beaches.” One can have a chilled-out vacation just relaxing on the warm sand bed of this beach. The sparkling markets offer everything from exotic food & drinks to artefacts of Indonesia. You cannot miss the heavenly sunrise and sunset here.

Places you can visit: Castle House, Revolution Pub, The Medicinal Springs

Activities you can enjoy: Live Music and Dance shows, Shopping, Water Skiing, Windsurfing, Parasailing, Speed Boating, Jet Skiing, and  Banana Ride etc

Read Also: Best Way to Travel from Delhi to Goa – By Road, Train or Air

Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach perfectly satisfies your desire for a wholesome vacation full of parties, sightseeing, adventure, shopping and fine dining. This beach has two parts namely Big Vagator Beach and Little Vagator Beach. Little Vagator Beach is famous for its exciting nightlife. Several stalls alongside the beach sell several items like handicrafts, books, and food items etc.

Places you can visit: Ozran Beach, Spa by Clarins, Disco Valley, Chapora Beach, The Goa Collective Bazaar, Tin Tin Bar

Activities you can enjoy: Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Shopping, Live Music Shows, Dolphin Watch

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Views of pearly white sands and sublime palm trees enthral the visitors here. Thrilling water sports, refreshing shacks and exclusive live music shows attract thousands of tourists to this place every year. You can find a number of pubs and clubs near this place.

Places you can visit: Club Tito’s, Club Ivy, Tibetan Market

Activities you can enjoy: Shopping, Scuba Diving, Banana Ride, Jet Skiing, Water Scooter, Motor Boat Riding, Dolphin Watching, Shopping, Live Music Shows, Casino Palms, and Relaxing at Spa etc

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Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort is one of the most sighted places in North Goa with its connection to the famous Bollywood Film “ DilChahta Hai”. This majestic fort is located on the famous Chapora Beach. Although in ruins at present, this fort has gained immense popularity because of its rich historical background of Portuguese ruling over it for more than 150 years. Views of tunnels constructed by the Portuguese for the purpose of escaping still gives you a chilling sensation.

Places you can visit: Chapora Beach, Disco Valley, Ozran Beach

Activities you can enjoy: Sightseeing, Cruise, Photography

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• Visit Goa Famous Forts
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Basilica of Bom Jesus

This famous building with a deep connection with St. Francis Xavier has been recognized as a UNESCO heritage site. The Baroque architecture reflecting in the attractive interiors with magnificent marble floors, antique basalt ornamentations and marvellous paintings makes it a place worth visiting.

Places you can visit: Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, Chapel of Saint Catherine, Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, Shantadurga Temple, Old Goa, The Archaeological Museum, Church and Monastery of St Augustine

Activities you can enjoy: Photography, Sightseeing

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Mangueshi Temple

Mangueshi Temple is a 450 years old temple of Lord Manguesh who is another avatar of Lord Shiva. Beautiful Goan architecture of this famous temple with many interesting aspects like a lamp tower of 7 storeys called Depastambha, a figure of Shiva’s mount Nandi Bull, a large assembly hall and charming chandeliers make this a unique religious place. Many famous Hindu festivals are celebrated in this temple throughout the year.

Places you can visit: Sahakari Spice Farm, Shri Nagesh Temple, Gaonkars Nandanvan, Butterfly conservatory, NageshWaterworld

Activities you can enjoy: Sightseeing, Swimming

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The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

This historical 16 th century church is believed to be the first-ever church built in Goa. The speciality of this church lies in its simple architectural style which is highlighted in pure white. Altars of St. Francis Xavier, Our Lady of Rosary and Crucified Jesus and sculptures of St. Peter and St. Paul had been magnificently carved out reflecting the excellence of the craftsmanship.

Places you can visit: Crown Casino, Mario Gallery, Fontainhas, Big Daddy Casino

Activities you can enjoy: Electric Bike Riding, Sightseeing

{ List of Famous Churches to Visit in Goa }

Arvalem Waterfalls

Arvalem Waterfalls is another great attraction of North Goa for nature lovers. Falling down from the height of 24 feet, this falls is a great delight to the viewers. You can even explore the nearest Arvalam caves and visit Shiva Temple nearby. Increasing water volume during Monsoon makes this place more desirable to its visitors during that period.

Main Attractions: Arvalam caves, Rudreshwar temple

Activities you can enjoy: Sightseeing, Picnic, Swimming

Read More: 10 Best Waterfalls in Goa

Big Daddy Caravela

If you want to get a feeling of how it is to be in Las Vegas, then you must visit this place. This is the most famous casino in Goa which is on a boat named MV Lucky Seven boa floating on the Mandavi River. You can enjoy all the luxuries on your boat ride along with trying your luck in gambling.

With VIP game rooms, multiple tables with different levels of gaming, and many automatic machines, this casino has been able to win over other casinos in Goa. The entertainment and luxury have no limits here with fine dining restaurant, barbecue zone, kid’s zone, cigar lounge and live music and dance performances by global artists.

Places you can visit: Panaji Kala Academy, Mario Gallery, Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, Crown Casino, Mandavi River

Activities you can enjoy: Cruising, Boat Rides, Gambling, Live Music and Dance shows, and Angling etc

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Curlies is a famous name amongst party lovers as this oldest shack on Anjuna Beach offers great food and drinks in its simple but interesting interiors. The friendly staff, awesome services, mouth-watering dishes, tempting drinks, and cool ambience of this place are the reasons why this place has become a favourite amongst the tourists. You get to attend beach parties every now and then here Goan music and cuisine put you in a trance.

Places you can visit: Anjuna Market, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Anjuna Beach, St Ann Chapel

Activities you can enjoy: Partying, Kayaking, Fishing, Parasailing, Banana Boat Rides and Indoor games etc

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Anjuna Beach Flea Market

If you are seeking a place in North Goa where you can go for mind-blowing shopping and dining experience, then you must visit the famous flea market on Anjuna Beach. This Flea Market which is held only on Wednesday of every week attracts a large number of tourists here on this day.

You can find the best pieces of Kashmiri or Tibetan jewellery, Rajasthani and Gujarati handicrafts, spices from Kerala and many more things. You can even loosen up at one of the restaurants or bars with live music.

Places you can visit: Anjuna Beach, Cafe Looda, Seabreeze

Activities you can enjoy: Shopping, dining, Live music, Curlies Beach Shack

Whether you are looking for a peaceful vacation in a serene place where you can enjoy simply walking or resting in nature or a thrilling vacation with beach parties, exotic food and drinks, North Goa will simply not disappoint you. So get some enthusiasm plan your next trip to North Goa to explore some of these beautiful locations.

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FAQ About North Goa

Q. what are the famous beaches of north goa.

A. The famous beaches of North Goa are Baga Beach, Aguada Beach, Calangute Beach, Vagator Beach, Sinquerim Beach, and Candolim Beach etc.

Q. What are the famous casinos in North Goa?

A. The famous casinos of North Goa are Big Daddy Casino, Deltin Royale, Deltin Jaqk, Casino Palms, Grand 7 Casino, Crown Casino, and Treasures Casino etc.

Q. Which are the best places to shop in North Goa?

A. Best places to shop in North Goa are Arjuna Beach Flea Market, Panjim Market, Mapusa Market, Mackie's Night Bazaar and Calangute Market Square etc.

Q. Which are the famous places to eatin North Goa?

A. The best places to eat in North Goa are Thalassa, Le Poission Rouge, Tuscany Gardens, Alex’s Shack, Bomra’s, Britto's, Morisco, Go with the Flow, Earthen Oven, Antares, The Black Sheep Bistro and many more.

Planning a trip to Goa?  Check out the Goa Tour Packages  including private guide & car, relaxing itinerary and affordable price. Get an update from  our blog  with the  latest travel news,  places to visit, travel guide, Things to do.  Let’s be friends on social media f ollow TuskTravel.com on Twitter ,  Instagram ,  Facebook , and on  YouTube and get our updates and fresh inspirations.

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Top 20 places to experience the best of goa tourism.

COVID-19 has really taken the wind out of the sails of those who love to travel, explore & experience all that the world has to offer. It has also affected those who treasure Goa for its beauty, heritage, beaches, nightlife and everything else that makes it a top tourist destination in India. We are sure that you are extremely eager to visit Goa and have a grand time, having been unable to visit it for so long! That is why we have come up with this blog, to remind you once again of the charm and attraction of Goa & what are the top places that let you experience the best of what it has to offer.

Utter the word Goa, and images of beaches with colourful beach shacks, wild parties, flea markets buzzing with tourists & fresh seafood flood your mind. Although it is counted among the top travel destinations in India because of those things, there is much more to this state with its coastline which stretches along the Arabian Sea. There are several points of tourist interest excellent for sightseeing, from waterfalls to spice plantations. You can avail the benefits of an Ayurvedic massage or take a heritage walk exploring the Latin quarters. It is for all these reasons, this wide appeal to everybody, that Goa stands out as both a favourite honeymoon destination and a tourist destination suitable for family holidays. In this blog, we bring you the top 15 places where you can experience the best that Goa has to offer.

List of 20 Best Places to Visit in Goa

• Panaji, North Goa
• Margao, South Goa
• Vasco da Gama, South Goa
• Mapusa, North Goa
• Calangute, North Goa
• Candolim, North Goa
• Anjuna, North Goa
• Bambolim, North Goa
• Agonda, South Goa
• Mandrem, North Goa
• Morjim, North Goa
• Sanquelim, North Goa
• Ponda, North Goa
• Bicholim, North Goa
• Valpoi, North Goa
• Canacona, South Goa
• Sanguem, South Goa
• Quepem, South Goa

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Panaji: A relaxed state capital!

Panaji should occupy a place in your list of visiting places in Goa, not just because it’s the capital city, but because there are so many places that make for an incredible sightseeing tour. From taking a heritage walk in Fontainhas – the Latin Quarters to spending a day at the Miramar Beach, this city promises you a quality time. Ornithologists and bird lovers can also visit the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, situated just 7 kilometers from here & home to migratory birds as well as common & uncommon species of marsh dwelling birds.

Popular Things to See in Panaji

• Resig Magos Fort
• Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
• Adil Shahi Palace
• Miramar Beach
• Kala Academy
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
• Divar Island
• Shanta Durga Temple
• Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

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Margao: Cultural capital of Goa!

Margao is not the kind of place which you would want to miss while planning to visit Goa. The town claims the tag of being Goa’s cultural capital, and after exploring it, you realize, it’s a tag well deserved. The prominent landmarks in the town are the Municipal Garden, The Holy Spirit Church, House of Seven Gables and Damodar Temple, all of which are famous points of interest for tourists. You should also visit the special market to explore the various species and dried fish. Almost all the specialties that make Goa famous are to be found in Margao, apart from the Margao curry. It’s interesting to know that Margao Curry is exported to Portugal and elsewhere.

Popular Things to See in Margao

• Municipal Garden
• The Holy Spirit Church
• House of Seven Gables
• Damodar Temple
• Pandava Caves
• Margao Market
• Zalor Beach
• Sri Chandranath
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Vasco da Gama: Mostly the beaches!

The city of Vasco da Gama is named after the Portuguese explorer. If you are planning to visit Goa to spend time on its beaches, then this is where you need to be. There are several beaches like Cansaulim, which is great for watching the setting sunset, or Hollant, perfect for a wild ride with your friends! There are other attractions too, like the St. Andrews’s Church which is 400 years old. There’s also a Naval Aviation Museum, which is one of three such museums in India. If you visit it in March though, you can attend the Shigmo, a festival marked by street dances and colourful parades.

Popular Things to See in Vasco da Gama

• Mormugao Fort
• Arossim Beach
• Bogmalo Beach
• Cansualim Beach
• Velsao Beach
• Hollant Beach
• St. Andrew’s Church
• Kesarval Waterfalls
• Sahakari Spice Farm
• Naval Aviation Museum
• Shri Ramnath Temple
• Three Kings Church
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Mapusa: Off to the Friday Bazaar!

There are many reasons to visit Mapusa during your Goa tour, but one that mentions a special mention is the Mapusa Friday Market. Held every Friday, a visit takes you across stalls selling Goan spices, homemade sausages, fish with marsala ready to cook, vegetables, chillies, cashews and sweets. Located in the Bardez sub-district, it enjoys a close proximity to several beaches like Vagator & Chapora.

Best Things to See in Mapusa

• Bodgeshwar Temple
• Mapusa Friday Bazaar
• St. Jerome Church
• Maruti Temple
• Cansaulim Church
• Church of Our Lady of Miracles
• Municipal Building (for its architecture)
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Calangute: A town with the Queen of Beaches!

Calangute Beach is counted among the most beautiful beaches of Goa, and that is precisely why this town in Bardez district makes it to any Goa travel guide. On any given day on the beach, your eyes will meet scores of backpackers and tourist, all having a great time! There are shacks, lots of clubs, shows being held, open air dances being performed and people enjoying adventure sports like parasailing and water skiing.

Popular Things to See in Calangute

• Calangute Beach
• St. Alex Church
• Tibetan Market
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Candolim: As relaxed as it gets!

Candolim, just like Calangute, attracts tourists in Goa for its prime attraction, Candolim Beach . However, if you like your beaches crowded & noisy with a party like atmosphere, you won’t find much to do here! It is for you though, if all you are looking forward to is a sunbath, admiring the sunset, maybe a dip & enjoying parasailing. One other reason that you should visit the beach is the “River Princess”, a bulk carrier which ran aground 100 meters ashore. Pick a sunbed, watch the waves kiss the shore while they are tinged with red & yellow during sunrise and sunset.

Best Things to See in Candolim

• Candolim Beach
• Our Lady of Hope Church
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Anjuna: Still a bit hippy after all these years!

If you took a trip to Goa in the 1960’s & visited the village of Anjuna, you would find yourself in the middle of trance parties, hippies in psychedelic colours & free spirited backpackers. Today, you will find all sorts of tourists, both domestic & international, with some traces of that hippie era. One way of getting a feel of that is visiting the Flea Market, which opens on Wednesdays. You can lay hands on all kinds of stuff from sarongs, sandalwood & leather goods to crystals & stones. The other top place to visit is the Anjuna Beach , comparatively less crowded among the other beaches in Goa. To experience the trance scene, visit it in the evening and head towards restaurants like Curlies or Shiva Valley.

Popular Things to See in Anjuna

• Wednesday Flea Market
• Anjuna Beach
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Bambolim: So quiet, so lively!

Bambolim will always find a mention among the top 10 places to visit in Goa for its beach. It is a long white sandy stretch of sand, rocks and happily swaying coconut palms which serves both aesthetical & functional purposes (such as, offering shade from the midday sun). On some days, you might see groups of young boys & girls chilling out, but what you will often see are fishermen getting ready to go fishing. It is also a great picnic spot in Goa for a family, as it is pretty secluded and free from vendors and shacks. There is a Bambolim Beach Resort though, where you can try out a variety of cuisines, from Goan to Continental delights.

Popular Things to See in Bambolim

• Bambolim Beach
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Agonda: Time and tide wait for Agonda!

Agonda is a top travel destination in South Goa, as much for its “silent beach” as for the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles which lay their nests on it in September. The village by the beach is surrounded by dense vegetation, and is a place where you quite forget to remember words like “time” and “hurry”. Watch the waves of the Arabian Sea lapping the shore, cows enjoying a leisurely stroll and dogs having the time of their life! People who have visited Goa describe it as a top beach destination, it’s not to understand why!

Things to See

• Agonda Beach
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Old Goa: Sweeping splendour & grandeur!

There was a time when the capital of Goa was not Panaji but Velha Goa, better known as Old Goa today. It was a time when the grandeur and unparalleled splendour swept through the city, much of which was visible in its towering churches, cathedrals and majestic convents. It is those spectacular pieces of architecture that have secured for Old Goa a permanent place in any sightseeing tour. The popular tourist attractions that attract tourists today, are collectively referred to as “Churches and Convents of Goa”, and include monuments like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites). This is the side of Goa that many more people need to see, a side that displays its rich history and heritage.

Popular Things to See in Old Goa

• Basilica of Bom Jesus (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Se Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Church of Our Lady of the Rosary (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Church of St. Francis of Assisi (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Chapel of Santa Catarina (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Ruins of the Church of St. Augustine (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Church of Divine Providence (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
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Mandrem: A sleepy coastal village!

How about visiting a beach in Goa which also offers the opportunity to enjoy an Ayurvedic massage? Mandrem, a sleepy coastal village makes it to this list of top tourist places in Goa for its beach, which is perhaps the quietest in all of North Goa. It is lined with a few beach shacks and some hotels that offer some amazing food, including local delicacies. You can also hire sunbeds and spend a day getting a suntan and spending some quality time. If you are up for a massage, there is a small massage center where you can get one!

Things to see

• Mandrem Beach
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Morjim: Nesting site of Olive Ridley Sea Turtles!

Don’t bother visiting the town of Morjim stretched out on the banks of River Chapora if seclusion, solitude and tranquillity isn’t your thing. Visit it if you want a quiet day out on the beach enjoying the sunset, enjoying a few local delicacies and taking a walk in the village. Families and friends searching for a top beach destination without the usual commotion should head here. Morjim is also a nesting site for the endangered Olive Ridley Sea Turtle. You will find a post with a board on the beach pinpointing the spot where the turtles hatch their eggs. It is a wonderful site to come across!

• Morjim Beach
• Olive Ridley Sea Turtles
• Why You Must Visit These 15 Ancient Cities in India

Sanquelim: Nature & Heritage!

The town of Sanquelim finds a place in the popular tourist attractions in Goa for the Harvalem Caves, Harvalem Waterfalls and Rudreshwar Temple. All of these three tourist places can be covered in one trip itself. The Harvalem Caves are a set of caves named after the five Pandavas of the Mahabharata. The caves themselves were excavated into the Laterite Hill and consist of two major caves including a residential chamber. Just 1 kilometer from here lie the Harvalem Waterfalls, which attain their fullest glory during the monsoons, and the Rudreshwar Temple, located close to the waterfall.

Popular Things to See

• Harvalem Caves
• Harvalem Waterfalls
• Rudreshwar Temple
• Most Celebrated Religious & Cultural Festivals and Fairs in India

 Ponda: Heritage and the smell of spices!

Another tourist destination in North Goa where you can explore the rich heritage of Goa is Ponda, with its temples, an ancient mosque and beautiful spice farms. One of these is the Sahakari Spice Farm, a visit to which acquaints you with various types of spices. The farm is set in a tropical garden. There are also a few stalls where you can purchase spices and oils. Tropical Spice Plantation is another spice farm where you see trees like Mexican Mirchi, Pepper Tree and Lavender Tree. It’s interesting to see & know about the various trees and plants which lend that peculiar taste to our food and make it so delicious!

Popular Things to See in Ponda

• Tropical Spice Plantation
• Shri Mahalasa Temple
• Mahalaxmi Temple
• Laxmi Narasimha Temple
• Safa Shahouri Masjid
• Vijaya Durga Temple
• Shri Nagueshi Temple
• Savoi Spice Plantation
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
• Rich Mughal Art and Architecture: Historical Monuments in India

Bicholim – Offbeat Nature Getaway

Home to the most scenic waterfalls at Aravalem, oldest mosques, ancient Hindu temples and Mayem Lake, Bicholim is a beautiful countryside to explore in Goa for a relaxing holiday. The popular Saptakoteshwar temple is the major tourist attraction here. Despite having no beaches, it is a blissful haven for nature lovers. The picture postcard settings, ancient rock caves add delight to the mind if you are interested in sightseeing of historical places. Though not much to see in terms of tourist places, this place is still worth a visit for a relaxing escapade into the lap of nature.

Popular Things to See in Bicholim

• Aravalem Waterfalls
• Saptakoteshwar Temple

Location – North Goa

Also Read: Beach Tourism in Goa

Sanguem, South Goa – Loners Paradise

Your travel experience will remain incomplete if you don’t visit Sanguem. It is one of the lesser-known destinations to visit in Goa. Though it does not fit in the commercial tourism destinations   in Goa, this place is worth a visit. It is blessed with numerous tourist attractions which will surprise you to the core of your heart. It boasts of mysterious caves in Rivona, which is also known as Pandava Caves the kind of which you will not find anywhere else. It is said that Pandavas of Mahabharata lived in these caves during their exile. Lots of spice plantations, dams and waterfalls makes Sanguem scenic and soothing to the heart and eyes. It’s not a place where you can enjoy the pleasure of beaches but if you want to experience something different from the usual beaches of Goa, Sanguem is a place for you.

Popular Things to See in Sanguem

• Rivona Caves
• Rivona Springs
• Vimleshwar Temple
• Tanshikar Spice Farm
• Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple
• Salaulim Dam

Location – South Goa

Also Read: Must Visit Beach Destinations in Goa

Quepem – Retreat for Magical Holidays

The lesser-known village of Quepem will enchant you forever with its serenity and tranquility. For a relaxed holiday it is the best place to visit in Goa. It is a small village but you will find everything here. Historical Landmarks, scenic Dams, Churches, awesome Beaches, Restaurants and stunning Temples. The tale of Bhoja Kings to the Portuguese rulers, this place echoes their history in the form of temples and dams. Don’t miss the authentic Seafood in Quepem, it is one of a kind. You must visit this place to blend in the secluded serenity of nature.

Top Places to Visit in Quepem

• Shri Chandranath Temple
• Shri Damodar Temple
• Kushavati River
• Morpila SacredGrove
• Chandranath Hill
• 2000 years old Banyan tree
• Canaguinim Beach
• Betul Beach

Also Read:  Top Things to Do in Goa

Valpoi – Adventure Paradise

Valpoi is a must visit tourist destination in Goa for nature lovers and adventurers. The thrills of water rafting, soothing Chorla Ghats and Vagheri hills for trekking and hiking, rocky hills, dense forests, the magnificent and ruined Nanus Fort, serene temples and mosques and the forever blissful Veluz Nagargaon Bridge will definitely blow your heart away. This village’s lifestyle, culture, festivals and folk songs are another delightful treat to make your journey here one of a kind.

Popular Things to See in Valpoi

• River Mhadei
• Veluz Nagargaon Bridge
• Chorla Ghats
• Vagheri Hills
• Charavane Waterfall
• Brahma Temple
• Diamond Sports Club

Location – North Goa  

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• Popular Points of Tourist Interest of Goa
• How to Reach Goa ?
• Destination Wedding in Goa

Canacona: It’s all about the beaches!

The city of Canacona lies in close proximity to wonderful beaches like Patnem, Rajbaga, Colomb and Talpona. Each of these beaches have something different to offer. At Palolem Beach, for example, you can go boating to Monkey, Honeymoon and Butterfly Islands. Talpona Beach, on the other hand, is untouched, pristine and secluded, with an extremely relaxed vibe.

Popular Things to See in Canacona

• Rajbaga Beach
• Colomb Beach
• Talpona Beach
• Palolem Beach
• 10 Breathtaking Destination in India For Your Inner Adventure Devil

These are the top 17 places to experience the best of Goa that cover its various attractions including beaches, churches, spice plantations, waterfalls and temples. What part about Goa tourism appeals to you the most, and how many of these tourist places in Goa have you visited? Share your experiences with us!

Check out: Affordable Tour Packages for Goa

Complete Updated Goa Tourist Holiday Travel Guide | Tour My India

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Disclaimer: We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.

Q. What is the best time to visit Goa?

Goa can be visited throughout the year. Monsoons is the best time to visit it for its waterfalls, while winters are great for having a great time at its beaches.

Q. Which beaches of Goa are suitable for families?

Some of the beaches in Goa that are suitable for families are Morjim, Bambolim and Candolim.

Q. Does Goa have its own airport?

Yes, Goa has its own airport called Dabolim Airport or Goa International Airport.

Q. What type of accommodation is available in Goa?

Accommodation options in Goa are available in the form of resorts, hotels, beach shacks and guest houses, depending on your preference and budget. There are five star luxury suites as well as budget hotels, villas, midrange hotels, upmarket hotels and long term rentals.

Q. Which places in Goa are suitable for senior citizens?

Some of the places in Goa that are suitable for senior citizens are Old Goa, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Aguada Fort and Basilica of Bom Jesus.

Q. Where can I experience the nightlife of Goa?

Some of the best nightclubs in Goa where you can experience its nightlife are Tito’s Bar and Club, Club Cubana, Sinq Night Club, Baga Beach and Candolim Beach (for night beach parties).

Q. Do I need a COVID-19 test to visit Goa?

No, you do not need a COVID-19 negative certificate to visit Goa. Domestic travellers too do not need to produce a COVID-19 negative report while arriving at the airport.

Published: 12 Nov, 2020 | Last Updated:  10 Mar, 2022

About the author

Vishwajit Sharma

Writing, for me, is an artistic expression of the countless thoughts flooding my mind. For now, travel content writing is what keeps me going! In my spare time, I like nothing better than immersing myself in a book, along with a cuppa! A classic movie helps too! I define traveling as a process of self-discovery. Hailing from Darjeeling, my ultimate desire is to escape to the hills, with the mountain air and solitude as my constant companions!

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Home » Lifestyle » Travel » Places to visit in North Goa and things to do

Places to visit in North Goa and things to do

Goa is well-known around the world for its beaches, with its principal economic activity being tourism. Goa can be easily identified by its two distinct centres, one in the north and one in the south. North Goa is the one that is believed to be the hub for partying and the hippy paradise. However, there is much more to the area than simply that . North Goa places are dotted with majestic forts, beautiful cathedrals, bustling flea markets, and a wide variety of other points of interest.

Table of Contents

North Goa is accessible to visitors by any one of the following modes of transportation.

Goa is well linked to the majority of India’s main cities via air. All domestic and international flights to and from Goa are operated out of the Goa Airport at Dabolim, which is close to the port city of Vasco-da-Gama. The Indian Navy owns the airport, located around 30 kilometres from the capital Panaji.

A new international airport is under construction in Mopa, North Goa, and is set to begin its operations soon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to officially open the Mopa airport on August 15, 2022, which would be the 76th anniversary of India’s independence.

Given that Vasco da Gama and Madgaon are the state’s two major railheads, travelling to Goa by train is relatively easy. Through a robust train network, these two railway stations are extraordinarily well connected to various regions of the nation. One of the primary train stations serving North Goa is in Thivim Terminus. It is a stop on the North-South line; practically all trains stop here.

Goa is linked to all of India’s main cities by National Highways NH4A, NH17, and NH17A. The majority of locations along the route are in excellent condition and permit reasonable driving speeds. Mapusa Bus Stand serves as the main hub for travellers visiting north Goa. Most of the cities and towns in neighbouring states, including Mumbai, Pune, Belgaum, and Bangalore, are accessible from the Mapusa bus stand at regular intervals throughout the day.

20 places to visit in North Goa

Panjim city.

Source: Pinterest

The city of Panaji serves as the administrative centre of the North Goa district in addition to being the capital of the state. The city is situated on the banks of the Mandovi River, and its streets are paved with cobblestone. The streets are dotted with brightly coloured homes and structures that date back to the time of Portuguese colonial rule. Panjim has a slew of attractions, including historic structures, Latin Quarters, beaches, and plenty of street art, all of which may be explored in a single day.

See also: 10 best honeymoon places in India for a romantic trip

Take a day excursion from Panjim to Old Goa while you are in the area around the city of Panaji. Old Goa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit both the well-known Old Goa church and one of the numerous lesser-known attractions that can be found in Old Goa, such as the Se Cathedral, the St. Cajetan church, the St. Augustine tower, and many more. To thoroughly experience all of Old Goa’s attractions, you need to set aside at least a half-day. You also have the option of having lunch at a local riverfront restaurant known as Gene Garden, which is located close to the Ribandar ferry port. In addition, you can take the boat from this location to the scenic and laid-back island of Divar.

See also: 10 best tourist places to visit in Mumbai and things to do

The eye-catching value of this sector in Panjim has contributed to the neighbourhood’s meteoric rise in popularity in recent years. It is a bustling neighbourhood with narrow alleyways lined with the nicest, most colourful buildings in Goa, which serve as a genuine living representation of the Portuguese architectural impact on the state’s architecture. Throughout the day, there will be a great number of young photographers taking shots here. Therefore, if you want the ideal photo for your social media, this is the place to go. 

Anjuna Flea Market 

This flea market on Anjuna Beach comes to life every Wednesday and is widely considered to be one of the greatest marketplaces in all of Goa. For this seaside market, you can get Nepalese and Tibetan handicrafts as well as souvenirs, knickknacks, jewellery, beachwear, wall hangings, and other items at nominal costs. In addition, the market and its surrounding area also include many food vendors, body piercing shops, live music, and other forms of entertainment. Keep in mind that the market is only open from October to May, so be sure to schedule your trip properly.

Arpora Saturday Night Market

Attending the colourful Saturday night market in Arpora is one of the most interesting activities tourists can do in the North Goa region. The crowded area is a shopper’s dream come true since there is such a wide selection of goods available, ranging from regional handicrafts to designer clothing. The allure of the location is enhanced by the presence of many food vendors serving mouthwatering specialities.

Mapusa Market

Mapusa Market has been and continues to be one of the most important commercial and retail districts in all of Goa. On Fridays, the location transforms into a bustling marketplace where customers can experience the authentic allure of shopping in a Goan bazaar. You can shop for a wide variety of goods at this location, from fresh fruits and vegetables to fashionable accessories and garments. Do not be afraid to use your negotiating talents to get the best possible price.

Vagator Beach 

Vagator is a breathtaking beach characterised by its magnificent red cliffs that line the shoreline. This beach is a sight to see. The beach at this location really comprised two distinct beaches known as Big Vagator and Little Vagator. It is the ideal location to kick your feet up and relax while getting your fill of the sun, sand, and water. However, if you are interested in having some fun on the water, Vagator offers a wide variety of activities for you to choose from, such as parasailing and jet skiing. You may also look forward to excellent nightlife and enjoy the beautiful sunsets here. 

Vagator Hilltop

Looking for things to do in North Goa ? The Hilltop of Vagator is synonymous with festivities and parties due to its prominent location. The Hilltop Festival, which takes place throughout February, is by far the largest celebration. It hosts significant events that honour psychedelic trance music in a big way. The world’s most well-known DJs of trance music often use Hilltop Nightclub as a laboratory for their musical experimentation. These kinds of events draw in tens of thousands of individuals from all around the globe who are enthusiastic about listening to high-intensity trance music.

Curlies Beach Shack 

Curlie’s is an enchanting beach shack located on Anjuna Beach that is regarded as one of the most popular hangout areas in North Goa. It has not only restaurants and bars, but also an interior club, a tea house, and a veranda with a view of the ocean. The shack provides a wide variety of opportunities for engaging in water activities in addition to its wine and eating options. The shack is known for the quality of the Goan, Continental, Italian, and North Indian food it offers. 

Arambol Beach 

Arambol is a beach representing the ideal combination of scenic beauty and tranquillity. This beach is known for its particular bohemian atmosphere. This rocky and sandy beach is regarded among the less-crowded beaches in Goa, which makes it perfect for you to spend some romantic moments as well as participate in some great water-based sports. You may even go shopping for trinkets and costume jewellery in the little stores that line the beach, or you can have a drink or two at one of the shacks that are located all along the beach.

Sweet Water Lake

The Sweet Water Lake is a heaven on earth that is filled with pure water and fed by natural hot springs located deep inside the Goan rainforest. The lagoon is encircled on all sides by verdant mountains and palm tree plantations. To get here, you must go from the northernmost part of the Arambol beach via a tunnel lined with bazaars until you reach a deserted beach. The lake is just across from the more intimate beach. Take advantage of the spiritual ambience of the location by participating in one of the regular meditation sessions or giving your body treatment with some magical healing clay. 

Sinquerim Beach 

The stunning Sinquerim Beach invites you to stroll along its picturesque sandy beach. You can participate in a wide variety of water-based sports and exciting activities, including swimming, but you can just go for a swim. The nightlife on this beach is dominated by music festivals the vast majority of the time. There are a great number of hotels and other types of resorts. In addition, there are many excellent restaurants in the surrounding area that are known for their delectable food and beverages. Getting to Sinquerim is simple because of the abundance of taxis, motorcycles, and buses that are available.

Ashwem Beach

Ashvem beach is a long and clean length of sand nestled away from the masses, making it a great location for travellers who want a peaceful holiday where they can soak in the sun, sand, and waves. The waters surrounding Ashwem beach are ideal for swimming, and the river that flows through the area provides a secure environment for children who are not yet old enough to manage the ocean’s waves.

You can relax even further by treating yourself to a spa day at one of the local resorts or going to have an Ayurvedic massage, both of which are known for their calming effects. The Ayurvedic massages practised in this region are of exceptionally high quality and level of expertise.

Miramar Beach

For Goans, Miramar Beach is comparable to Mumbai’s Chowpatty. Its major visitors are Goans, who come here to meet their friends for a leisurely stroll in the morning or evening. As a result, it possibly has the least touristic atmosphere of any place in Goa. Due to the presence of a strong undercurrent, this beach is not suitable for swimming. It is also possible to do some shopping here in addition to taking in the views. It is often regarded as one of the beaches in Goa that is best suited for families. The months of November through March are ideal for travel to this location in India.

Morjim Beach

People who like to keep to themselves would adore Morjim Beach. This beach, which can be found to the north of the Chapora River, is a stunning example of a sandy beachfront and is one of the beaches in Goa that sees the fewest visitors daily. The Olive Ridley turtles are the stars of the show on this beach since it is a nesting habitat for them. Morjim beach has a one-of-a-kind ecology that promotes the development and hatching of this kind of turtle, making it an ideal place for them to dwell. As a result of this, Morjim Beach has been given a new nickname: Turtle Beach. The 3-kilometre beach is perfect for taking long strolls along while appreciating the stunning sunset views.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

The basilica of Bom Jesus has been around for more than 400 years and was designed in the Portuguese architectural style. It is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Goa. This is because the location is home to the saintly Francis Xavier, who is credited with introducing Christianity to the Indian state of Goa in the 17th century. If you are the kind of person who can see and appreciate subtleties in architecture, then the baroque-style church will most likely be appealing to you.

The Church of Mae De Deus

The Church of Mae Deus is a captivating narrative that has been carved into stone and serves as an excellent example of Gothic architecture. It seems to be a building plucked right out of a children’s fairy tale book with its snow-white walls and towering spires, giving it a magical appearance. The fact that this church is the keeper of the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus is what elevates its status to an even higher level of uniqueness (Mother of God). At night, the church has this stunningly gorgeous lighted view for visitors to enjoy.

Goa State Museum

Goa State Museum is located in Panaji and is often referred to as the State Archaeology Museum. It was established in 1977, and among the departments, its houses include Geology, Ancient History and Archaeology, Art and Craft, and others. Visit the Goa State Museum if you are curious about Goa’s illustrious history and would want to learn more about it. The location is a veritable treasury of antiques and claims to have more than 8000 items in its collection. You will get the opportunity to explore a wondrous universe filled with rock statues, Jain sculptures, bronze artworks, outstanding silver coins, and a whole variety of other intriguing exhibits.

Chapora Fort 

As a result of its appearance in the critically acclaimed Bollywood film Dil Chahta Hai, Chapora Fort has attracted the attention of wanderlust spirits all across the nation, to the point that many people now refer to it as the Dil Chahta Hai Fort. The fort, which dates back to 1717, served as a quiet witness to the many historical events that took place in this location during its existence. It is located on top of a hill that is close to the Chapora River, and as a result, it is well worth going there to take in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding surroundings.

Fort Aguada

This enormous fort, which goes back to the 17th century and gives a breathtaking view of the sea that stretches out in front of it, is steeped in history and dates back to that era. Each and every Portuguese ship that sailed to the east would make a pit stop at Fort Aguada to replenish their water supplies since it had the greatest freshwater reservoir in all of Asia. The fort itself is magnificent and makes for a wonderful excursion destination. An antique lighthouse, the oldest of its type in Asia, is one of the primary attractions of the fort, along with many cells that were formerly used for incarceration.

When is the optimal time to go to North Goa?

From November through February, Goa has ideal weather conditions. This season is neither too hot nor too cold, making it the best time for travellers to explore.

Are there any beach limits in North Goa?

During the monsoon season, the state enforces a ban on swimming in the sea because of the turbulent waters.

What is the language spoken in Goa?

The most widely spoken languages in Goa are Konkani (the state's official language), Hindi, English, Portuguese, Marathi, and Kannada.

When does the carnival in Goa occur?

The Goa Carnival is typically held in mid-February and is one of the most popular festivals in the state.

What are the most renowned festivals in Goa?

Christmas, Easter, Ganesh Chathurthi, Carnival, and the Feast of Saint John the Baptist are the most widely observed holidays in Goa.

How far is it between Mumbai and Goa?

Goa is around 583 kilometres from Mumbai.

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Priya Banerjee, a writer with a keen eye on the property market, she deciphers the ever-changing trends in residential real estate. Priya excels at simplifying complex real estate terms, making them easy for everyone to understand. Her well-researched advice helps buyers and investors understand complex topics.

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Goa Itinerary for 5 days: The Most Reliable Goa Trip Plan

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.

Every time someone asks me to recommend a Goa trip plan, I perform a little jig in my head! If you don’t know yet, Akshay and I, love Goa. It’s a place that we have visited over two dozen times in the last decade. It’s practically our second home and a place that we can’t seem to get enough of.

But that’s also why we feel sad when many people treat it like a long weekend destination. But, you? You are amazing because you’ve decided to spend at least 5 days in Goa. That’s also why you deserve access to the best Goa itinerary for 5 days available on the internet.

If you are spending 5 days in Goa, you should ideally spend 3 days in North Goa and 2 days in South Goa. The 3 days in North Goa should be spent exploring touristic Goa, unseen Goa and Panjim while 2 days in South Goa should be spent exploring beaches and touristic attractions between Benaulim and Palolem.

In this article, I will break down the perfect Goa itinerary for 5 day. I will give you details of tourist attractions, Goa beaches and Goa restaurants that you should visit. By the end of it, you will have your easy-to-follow Goa travel itinerary.

Before I break up the above itinerary for you, let me first address a few basic questions surrounding a trip to Goa

Frequently Asked Questions about a Goa trip

Where to stay on a 5-day trip to goa.

The best areas to stay in Goa are:

• Candolim: For family travellers ( see best-rated accommodation here )
• Vagator: For solo and couple travellers who want to stay in the tourist area ( see best-rated accommodation here )
• Morjim: For travellers who want to escape the crowds ( see best-rated accommodation here )
• Panjim: For a central stay in the heart of local Goa ( see best-rated accommodation here )
• Benaulim: For family or couple travellers who want access to good restaurants, medicines, and other amenities ( see best-rated accommodation here )
• Cavelossim: For couple travellers who want to stay close to a quieter beach in high-end properties ( see best-rated accommodation here )
• Palolem: For those who want to stay close to the prettiest beach in Goa amidst vibey shops, cafes and yoga houses ( see best-rated accommodation here )

Read my in-depth article on where to stay in Goa

• a full list of the best areas to stay in Goa
• best accommodation options for your travel type

Are 5 days enough for a Goa trip?

Goa is a state of India and in fact, one with a slightly more distinct cultural and historic background than most of the other states in India. But, if you want to only visit the touristic attractions of Goa while also briefly acquainting yourself with its culture and present-day way of life, 5 days in Goa are enough.

How to commute within Goa?

The best way to travel within Goa is on a two-wheeler. You can easily get a scooter on rent for around Rs. 400 per day. If you don’t want to rent a scooter, opt for a rented car or use local cabs. Bargain heavily with local drivers as they tend to overcharge innocent tourists. In most tourist areas, you can also use Goa Miles : a cab booking app similar to Ola/Uber.

The most Epic Goa Itinerary for 5 Days

Day 1: touristy north goa.

On the first day in Goa, explore the touristy side of North Goa. Here are some of the places you should visit and places you should visit:

Have breakfast/brunch at a cute café

The touristy North Goa is full of cafés with pretty interiors and a smashing breakfast menu. Some of my favourite cafés are:

Café Chocolatti: Spacious outdoor seating, delicious frothy coffee and a kickass English Breakfast

Café Candolim: Cutest decor, a large collection of books and the best food

Café Artjuna: Artsy vibes, great food

Jaws Bakery : Budget bakery serving fresh lip-smacking breads, croissants and more.

Visit Fort Aguada, the biggest fort in Goa

The biggest fort in Goa and the biggest freshwater reserve in Asia is in the heart of North Goa. You must visit this place on a 5 day trip to Goa. It is close to Candolim and offers great views. But hey, it’s usually crowded and not super pretty anymore. Yet, it is a great starting point for your Goa trip.

Go parasailing at Sinquerim Beach

Indulge in watersport activities at Sinquerim beach. I think that the watersport infrastructure is the best at this beach. The presence of multiple vendors also means that you get better rates.

Enjoy a boat ride at Nerul River

Goa may be famous for its beaches, but it also has plenty of rivers running close to its coastline. A boat ride at Nerul river is a great opportunity to watch dolphins, splash around some cold river water and click pictures of the coastal paradise that Goa is.

Eat at a seafood restaurant

Seafood and particularly Konkani seafood is to die for! (I am a vegetarian but I have seen my husband Akshay get excited about seafood in Goa months before our trip!) Some places that serve fresh, yummy and flavourful seafood are:

The Lazy Goose : Located right under the Nerul Bridge, the place offers exotic views of the river and offers you a chance to indulge yourself with the best seafood.

Fat Fish : This restaurant packs a generous serving of delectable seafood on your plate.

Vinayak: The seafood thali perfectly satisfies your pangs especially when you’re ravenous and want everything yummy on your plate.

Watch a magnificent sunset

The best places to watch the sunset in the touristy side of North Goa are:

Chapora fort : Head to this fort, also known as the Dil Chahta Hai fort, for the best sunset views. Reach the top at least 30 minutes before sunset to get a good place on the wall. Also, visiting the Chapora fort involves a bit of a climb. So plan accordingly.

Vagator Beach: Vagator beach is also famous for its sunset. Located at the foot of the Chapora fort, you get to see the same sunset, albeit at a slightly lower angle. A better option is to watch the sunset, especially, if you are feeling lazy to climb the fort or if you are travelling with young kids.

Morgan’s Place Café/Café Purple Martini : If you want to sip on your choice of beverage while watching the changing hues of the sky, hanging out at any of these cafés would fulfill your wish like nothing else in Goa would. Purple Martini is usually super crowded and the balcony views come for a cost. Settle for Morgan’s Place if you want great views without hosting.

Party hard at a nightclub

North Goa is a great party hub with the best clubs like Hammerzz, Titos, SinQ, etc. Go here if you love partying!

Day 2: North Goa

It’s Day 2 in Goa and it’s time to explore the slightly offbeat beaches in Goa.

Click pictures at Parra Road

Parra Road is a narrow road with coconut trees on both sides that has recently gained popularity thanks to the movie ‘Dear Zindagi’. Visit the road for a classic Instagram shot.

Visit the famous Siolim Church

St. Anthony’s Church is a gorgeous church located in Siolim close to the Chapora River. It is not a popular tourist attraction but is nevertheless worth a visit for its architectural beauty.

Chill at Morjim Beach or Ashwem Beach

Morjim beach is one of the most deserted beaches in Goa. Even on a weekend, you will find it relatively empty. You can plonk yourself on one of the sunbeds and spend a chilled out day. Take breaks at the many shacks on the beach. Also, visit the Turtle Nesting Site to know more about how magical this beach is.

Experience the hippie vibe of Arambol

Arambol is known for its hippie vibe, yoga classes and drum circles. It is the place that attracted the most number of foreign (especially Russian) tourists. Visiting the place exposes you to a unique side of Goa- the one taken over by touristic preferences.

Visit the ‘Garden of Dreams’ – a fun restaurant with a hippie vibe and appetising vegan food.

Simplify your planning process. Get my specially designed quick itinerary: Goa: Planned for You

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!

Day 3: Panjim/Old Goa

Panjim, the capital of Goa, is nothing like the touristic Goa that you would see on Day 1 and Day 2. It is rich in Goan culture and is a place where you see the cathedrals, churches and even a few temples close by.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

This is one of the biggest and most visited cathedrals in all of Goa. In fact, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its unplastered exterior is uniquely attractive.

It holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xaviers.

Entry to the cathedral is free. But on weekends and during peak tourist season, the place is very crowded. Expect long lines and a wait of about 20-30 minutes for entry.

On other days, you will get a fairly zero-hassle entry into the cathedral.

Mon to Sat – 9.00am to 6.30pm Sunday – 10.30am to 6.30pm

Se Cathedral

This Cathedral is situated right opposite the Basilica. Its Gothic architecture is attractive.

The Cathedral is famous for its Cross of Miracles.

Church of St Francis of Assisi

This Church is right next to the Se Cathedral. It was built to celebrate the victory of Afonso de Albuquerque over the Muslim army.

In fact, the road leading to the Church is also very picturesque and one of the best places to capture a stunning picture of all the churches and cathedrals.

There is also an archeological museum here that’s open on all 7 days. (9.00am – 12.30 and 3.00pm to 6.30)

The church is not open for tourists on Sunday.

Mangueshi temple

After the Christian side of Goa, it is now time to visit the Mangueshi temple.

The Mangueshi temple was a very important place of worship in Goa since many centuries. In the 16th century, the Gaud Saraswats (the community that worships Goddess Mangueshi) moved the temple from its old location to its present location with a view to protect it from the Portuguese invasion.

The temple has been restored a few times and not only does it look pleasing but it also exudes a serene vibe.

Eat at Ritz, Panjim

Ritz is one of the best seafood restaurants in Goa. It’s a favourite amongst both – Goan tourists and Goan locals. So while you are in the very neighbourhood of Ritz, it make absolutely no sense for you to skip Ritz from your itinerary.

So go to Ritz and order a sumptuous Fish thali for yourself. (And if you are vegetarian like me – just order their kokam solkadhi alongwith your favourite main dish and watch the satisfied faces of fish lovers around you!)

Foutainhas / Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church

The perfect afternoon walk would be through the lanes of the Fountainhas.

Fountainhas is the colourful quarter in Goa that retains Portuguese style houses.

You can go here for a nice post-lunch walk, for a quick bite at one of its bakeries or to get a picture clicked against the backdrop of one of its colourful houses to jazz up your Instagram.

Follow up your Foutainhas visit with a quick visit to the famous Immaculate Conception Church. You would recognize the church immediately because of its many Bollywood appearances. Again, a great place for a classic #goatrip picture for the gram

Miramar/Dona Paula

Close your day with a walk along Miramar beach. Miramar beach is one of the most non-touristy beaches of Goa. It is beach that’s most frequented by the locals of Goa.

But even though it doesn’t have too many touristy shacks, it’s a lovely place to wind down after a sightseeing-heavy day.

If an urban beach doesn’t excite you, you can visit the famous Dona Paula jetty.

Dona Paula jetty is also a famous filming location in Goa.

Watch my North Goa vlog for more ideas

Day 4: South Goa Attractions

Start your day down south with a visit to some of the famous tourist places in South Goa

Naval aviation museum

Mind you, this is the only naval museum in Asia!

Plus, it is also one of the only two military museums in India.

If you love aircrafts, you’re in for a treat as the naval musuem houses 13 aircrafts.

Plus, the museum is designed to look like the interior of the aircraft carrier – INS Viraat – how cool is that!

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30am to 5.30pm

Big Foot/Ancestral Goa

The Big Foot and Ancestral Portuguese House are located right next to each other.

One is a recreation of a typical Goan village. You will see life-sized statues of fishermen, rice farmers, etc. You will also see the statue of Mirabai (record-holder for being carved from a single stone).

I think the place is a great place to educate children and foreigners about the history of Goa and Goa’s typical village life.

Right next to the Big Foot is the Ancestral Portuguese House – Casa Araujo Alvares. It is a 250-year old house of a renowned lawyer.

A 20-minute guided tour takes you around the many rooms of the house. An excellent way to experience life as it was two centuries ago!

The house has also appeared in the Bollywood movie Singham.

Colva Beach/Benaulim Beach

You should end your South Goa sightseeing day with a trip to Colva Beach or Benaulim Beach.

Colva beach

• it is more crowded and attracts many Indian tourists
• it has plenty of stalls outside selling icecreams
• its silvery sand is great for a family outing or simply for people-watching

Benaulim beach

• Benaulim beach has some of the best beachside shacks in South Goa. Roger’s and Rafaels are particularly famous. You can even enjoy a quiet, romantic candle-light dinner here after sunset.
• You can enjoy some watersport activities here before sunset.
• Even though both Indians and foreigners love this beach, it’s usually less crowded than Colva

Day 5: South Goan beaches

The beaches in South Goa are scenic and far less crowded than North Goan beaches.

They are a great escape from the touristy madness of the North.

Today, visit a few of the beaches from the list below:

Mobor beach

This wonderful Cavelossim beach is usually pretty deserted. Its white sand would light up your drone shots.

But even if you don’t have a drone, it’s a great place for a quick breakfast, a romantic walk with your loved one or a game of football with kids!

There are many good places to stay in Cavelossim for couples and family travellers.

Agonda beach

This beach is one of the southern-most beaches in Goa.

The 2020 cyclone Nisarga damaged many of its beachside shacks. But today, without an army of beachside huts and restaurants, the beach looks even more stunning. The palm trees lining the shore add to its appeal. It’s quiet, deserted and encapsulates the beauty of raw Goa – Goa without tourism.

Palolem beach

If you like a slightly more vibey beach, visit Palolem beach.

It is as stunning as Agonda but adds a little touristy air to it with its beachside shacks and souvenir shops.

You can even take boats from here to go

• eagle-feeding
• island hopping to monkey and honeymoon islands
• dolphin watching

There are many good places to stay in Palolem, especially for group travellers and solo travellers.

Some wonderful restaurants in this area worth trying out are

• Ciaran’s – wholesome Indian food
• German bakery – delicious croissants and more!
• Kopi Desa – lovely ambiance, tasty food

Cabo de Rama

Cabo de Rama is one of the most special places in Goa. The cliff at the top is truly the best place in all of Goa to capture the Goan coastline decorated with coconut and palm trees around.

You can even climb down to the secluded little cove – Cabo de Rama beach to witness the most spectacular sunset in Goa.

The road leading to Cabo de Rama is pretty secluded with very few shops or houses along the way. Avoid wandering around alone in this area after sunset.

If you want to only stay in South Goa, see my article on the best South Goa itineraries for 1,2,3,4,5 days here.

You can read more about the best beaches in Goa in my article here

How to design a 5-day Goa itinerary to suit your travel style?

The 5-day Goa itinerary given above is a recommended itinerary. You do not need to strictly adhere to it or feel overwhelmed by it.

Goa is a state that’s unlike any Indian state and no matter how you spend your time in Goa, you are going to have a great time!

Some ways to personalize your Goa itinerary are:

• Ditch tourist places that don’t match your travel style – e.g., skip Old Goa if you’re not into churches or history.
• Add more beach time : If you are a beach bum, skip Panajim and hang out longer at beaches you like. You don’t even have to visit them all. If the beach close to the area you are staying in matches your liking, just spend your days there.
• Add more adventure: You can add more adventure to your itinerary by trying out watersports at Sinquerim beach in North Goa or Benaulim in South. You can even go boating at the Nerul river. Go on this incredible bungee jumping tour in Goa.

Hope the above helps you customize the trip as per your liking.

Alternatively, you could simply get my digital travel plan Goa: Planned for You. It’s curated to meet different travel styles.

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.

Read more articles on Goa:

46 Best things to do in Goa: An Ultimate List

26 Goa travel tips: You must know before you go

North Goa in 3 days: The best itinerary

How to visit Goa on a budget

Read about other destinations in India here .

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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

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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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15 Top-Rated Attractions and Places to Visit in Goa

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 6, 2023

With golden-sand beaches, tangled palm trees touching the sky, and a relaxed atmosphere, Goa stands in stark contrast from the other bustling urban destinations in India. Even just a short visit to this beach paradise feels like a vacation within a vacation. The beauty and serenity of Goa will rejuvenate you, while its robust calendar of events and activities give you plenty of things do to during your free time.

Popular coastal hot spots, like Colva Beach and Palolem Beach , draw tourists to Goa from around the world. But beaches are just the beginning of what makes Goa one of the most beloved places to visit in India. The destination also has unique Portuguese-influenced cuisine , historical churches and temples , vibrant wildlife , and fascinating spice farms . No matter how long you spend in Goa, you'll wish you had a few extra days to explore.

For more ideas to help plan your trip to India, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Goa.

1. Popular Beaches

2. beaches off the beaten path, 3. tanshikar's working spice farm, 4. portuguese-indian restaurants, 5. basilica de bom jesus, 6. dudhsagar falls, 7. anjuna market, 8. church of our lady of the immaculate conception, 9. braganza house, 10. mahadev temple, 11. palácio do deão, 12. mangeshi temple, 13. fontainhas, 14. bhagwan mahavir wildlife sanctuary, 15. reis magos fort, map of attractions and places to visit in goa, goa, india - climate chart.

Beaches play a starring role among the attractions in Goa, contributing to why it's one of the best places to visit in India .

Nearly every tourist who visits the area spends a day at Palolem Beach , a crescent-shaped stretch of white sand that overlooks the Arabian Sea in south Goa. While simply hanging out and soaking up the scenery is a perfect way to enjoy this beautiful area, Palolem Beach also offers an array of activities to fill your time. Choose from kayaking , yoga classes , dolphin-sightseeing trips, and swimming . You can also spend the night in one of Palolem's rustic coco huts , which are erected at the start of the high season.

Colva Beach is another one of the most famous beaches in Goa , especially among Indian tourists. It has swaying palms and a broad stretch of bronze sand, where you'll occasionally see herds of cows sunbathing next to tourists. You can rent Jet Skis , hop on a thrilling banana boat ride , and get a bird's-eye view of the beach on a parasailing adventure.

Homestay accommodations in the area will give you an authentic local-style experience – plus easy access to Colva Beach.

While known for their spectacular scenery, the popular beaches in Goa tend to get crowded during high season, leaving some travelers eager for a quieter natural escape. Fortunately, Goa brims with undiscovered beach attractions and things to do that give you some distance from the throngs of tourists while still treating you to glorious sand and surf.

One of the best hidden gems in Goa is Butterfly Beach. It has a curving expanse of sand flanked by boulders that create a postcard-worthy cove, brimming with butterflies and blossoms. It's also a great spot to watch dolphins swim in the distance.

You'll need to embark on a boat ride from Palolem Beach or Agonda Beach, or tackle a challenging forest hike, to reach Butterfly Beach – but the obstacles to getting here help to thin out the crowds. You might even have the place to yourself.

While more developed than Butterfly Beach, Utorda Beach is another stunning getaway from the more crowded beaches around Goa. It features clean, blue water; silky sand; and a few small beach shacks. Look closely as you wade in the water, and you may spot some small starfish .

South India has been known for its abundance of spices, like black pepper, cardamom, and cloves, for centuries. In fact, these natural flavorings were a major appeal for Portuguese traders who came to Goa hundreds of years ago.

Tourists can see what the local spice scene is all about by touring Tanshikar's Working Spice Farm & Ecological Rest House . This agritourism attraction grows seven different spices: pepper, vanilla, nutmeg, turmeric, cardamom, and chili, using totally organic farming methods.

Tours of the farm, often led by its owner, will give you an in-depth understanding of these flavor-charged crops and a chance to see some of the other products, like betelnut, coffee beans, pineapple, and banana, grown on the premises. Tanshikar's also keeps bees and produces its own all-natural honey.

Spice farm tours aren't the only fun thing to do at Tanshikar's. Guests can also take a vegetarian cooking class , visit a bubbly lake , trek to Mainapi Waterfall, and train to become a yoga teacher. It's an attraction that has something for everyone.

Address: Netravali, near Smriti Yoga, Sanguem, Goa

Official site: http://www.tanshikarspicefarm.com/

Food is a major attraction in Goa. This part of India has a distinctive cuisine that blends Portuguese and Goan flavors, setting it apart from all the other food around India. Expect fiery flavors, fresh-caught seafood, and an abundance of coconut in the dishes.

You can't leave Goa without trying its signature dish, vindaloo, a super-hot meat curry made with palm vinegar and dried red chili peppers. Hospedaria Venite in the capital of Goa, Panaji , wows tourists with its mouthwatering vindaloo. Dominick, a Benaulim Beach mainstay, is another favorite spot for vindaloo – plus it offers front-row seats for world-class sunsets.

Another Goan specialty is xacuti, a rich curry with poppy seeds, chili, and coconut. Try it at Souza Lobo , a beachfront restaurant in Calangute , or Fat Fish , a well-trafficked spot in Baga.

Tourists hankering for some fresh seafood are spoiled for choice around Goa. Zeebop , on Utorda Beach , offers delightful fish curry, prawn stew, and mackerel doused with spicy red sauce.

You also can't go wrong with dinner at Copperleaf. The upscale restaurant in Porvorim has a fish thali that you'll be dreaming about long after you've finished.

While many tourists visit Goa for the beaches, countless others consider the trip to be a pilgrimage to important religious sites, like the Basilica de Bom Jesus.

This Old Goa attraction dates back to the late 16th century and contains the remains of the St. Francis Xavier . The "Apostle of the Indies" co-founded the Society of Jesus religious order with friend St. Ignatius Loyola and spearheaded an extensive mission in India. The basilica has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.

The modest yet imposing structure is a mix of Doric, Corinthian, and Baroque style with intricate carvings. Interestingly, the building was stripped of its lime plaster in the mid-20th century, making it the only church in Goa without plaster. The Basilica de Bom Jesus has since become worn by monsoons.

You can tour the church on your own, or hire one of the independent guides near the entrance for a small fee. Inside, you can see huge ornamental screens, along with the body of the resident saint in a casket that was once covered in precious stones. It's a compelling place that will transport you back in time.

Every year, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier draws big crowds to this church in late November and early December. It kicks off with a nine-day novena and open-air masses before concluding with the major holiday on Dec. 3.

Address: Old Goa Road, Bainguinim, Goa

Aquatic adventures go beyond the beach in Goa. The state is also home to Dudhsagar Falls, a spectacular four-tiered waterfall that towers some 310 meters above the earth. It's one of India's tallest waterfalls and a perpetually popular attraction for day trips around Goa and Karnataka .

To reach the falls, you'll need to make your way to the village of Colem by taxi or train. Depending on which train route you take, you may get a glimpse of Dudhsagar Falls along the way. Then, you'll hop aboard a shared jeep through the jungle, passing Devil's Canyon along the way. Around 45 minutes later, you'll scurry over some boulders to finally reach the falls.

The best time to visit Dudhsagar Falls is right after the monsoon , when the water is gushing. Tourists who wish to take a dip can rent a life jacket from vendors at the attraction.

Hot tip: Only 300 jeeps are allowed to enter Dudhsagar Falls every day, although tour operators have been requesting to increase the capacity during high season. Make reservations in advance, or prepare to wait in long lines if you wish to visit.

Goa is home to a ton of markets, but none offer the liveliness or selection of products found at Anjuna Market. For roughly 50 years, hundreds of vendors have been setting up shop on Anjuna Beach every Wednesday to tempt free-spirited travelers with hippy-inspired trinkets and souvenirs.

Ornate textiles, woven bikinis, sculptures of deities, dreamcatchers, hammocks, magnets, t-shirts with sassy slogans, beaded jewelry, toys – you name it, you can probably buy it here.

But even if you don't want to shop, you should still make a point to visit Anjuna Market for the sightseeing. The flea market is a swirling array of colorful wares, salespeople driving hard bargains, big bags of fresh spices, and street food galore. The vibe alone is one of the reasons why Anjuna Market is one of the top places to visit in Goa.

Address: 10 St. Michael's Vaddo South, Anjuna, Goa

Make your way to the laid-back city of Panaji to visit another one of Goa's historic churches: The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

The pristine white church, which dates back to the early 17th century, stands atop a zig-zagging staircase that resembles the tiers of a wedding cake. Its perfectly symmetrical Portuguese Baroque architecture is a sight to behold. At night, twinkle lights make the church look like something out of a fairy tale.

While not ornate, the church's interior boasts bright, colorful decorations. Tourists can see the elegant main altar (dedicated to Mary, mother of Jesus) and gilded pillars with elaborate carvings. Vines of blue and white blossoms often adorn parts of the vaulted ceiling around various holidays.

Dec. 8 marks the Festival of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception , a major holiday at this church. Swing by to see it decked out in tons of colorful lights.

Address: Rua Emídio Garcia, Altinho, Panaji, Goa

See what houses in Goa looked like during the 17th century at Braganza House, a historical mansion that flanks the village square in Chandor. It's divided into an east and west wing, both of which are available for tourists to poke around at their leisure.

The east wing is home to members of the Pereira-Braganza family. It boasts a massive ballroom with an impressive marble floor, along with a small chapel that contains one of St. Francis Xavier's fingernails. This part of Braganza House also brims with antiques and international artifacts.

The western side preserves the original grandeur of Braganza House. Owned by the Menezes-Braganças, the museum-like space features an expansive library with 5,000 leather-bound books from the private collection of journalist Luis de Menezes Braganza, who played an important role in the Goan independence movement. Tourists can also see breathtaking Belgian glass chandeliers, antique portraits of the family, and Chinese porcelain.

Address: Guddi-Chandor Road, Culsabhatt, Chandor, Goa

Located just 12 kilometers north of Molem , Mahadev Temple gives tourists a chance to see a structure that has been standing since the 12th century. Its remote location helped it survive centuries of conquests by the Portuguese and Muslim colonialists. Legend has it that the black basalt temple , which was built to honor Lord Shiva, has a resident king cobra. Step inside to see the detailed work of artisan carvers, including the lotus flower on the ceiling.

If Braganza House got you excited, just wait until you see Palácio do Deão. The 200-plus-year-old palace in Quepem has been restored to its original glory. It features a blend of Indian and Portuguese architecture. Tourists are welcome to explore the heritage home, including its game room and library filled with rare tomes.

The property also features sweeping tropical gardens that make for a pleasant place to spend the afternoon. Consider making reservations in advance for afternoon tea on the terrace.

Address: Opposite Holy Cross Church, Quepem, Goa

Official site: http://www.palaciododeao.com/

Goa's unique culture and heritage are on full display at Mangeshi Temple, a beautiful spiritual attraction that's been standing for roughly 450 years. The pastel blue, gold, and white temple features a seven-story tower that pays homage to one of the Hindu god Shiva's many incarnations: Manguesh. The temple structures surround a sacred pool of water , which is thought to be the most historic part of this religious site.

You can watch devotees perform pujas (worship rituals) at the temple every day. If you happen to be there on a Monday, you can watch the Manguesh idol taken out for a procession, complete with music, in the late afternoon or early evening.

Address: Dinanath Mangeshkar Road, Mangeshi Village, Mardol, Goa

Lace up your most comfortable pair of walking shoes and head to Panjim for a stroll around Fontainhas, one of Asia's only Latin quarters . Once the headquarters for the Portuguese government in Goa, the UNESCO-recognized Heritage Zone features colonial houses and cottages decked out with pastel and fluorescent façades. Each of the houses get a fresh coat of paint after the monsoon season every year, ensuring that they always look vibrant for visitors. Don't miss the district's namesake Fountain of Phoenix.

You can explore the area on your own, or book a walking tour for a more in-depth look at the history of this fascinating neighborhood. Either way, you'll definitely work up an appetite as you wander the narrow cobblestone streets and snap photos in front of the candy-colored buildings. Refuel at one of the decades-old cafés or bakeries in the neighborhood. Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro , a bakery near Mary Immaculate School, is known for having a wide selection of tasty Goan cakes and sweets.

Wildlife lovers should put Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary at the top of their Goa travel plans. The state's largest protected wildlife area, which spans 240 square kilometers and is also home to Molem National Park , is home to all kinds of amazing creatures, including the black leopard, Bengal tiger, Malabar giant squirrel, wild boar, slender loris, Indian rock python , and ruby-throated yellow bulbul (Goa's state bird).

Hiring a guide through a travel agent, and visiting the sanctuary in the early morning or late evening increases your chances at catching a glimpse of these animals. During the daytime, you can see the natural wonders of Dudhsagar Falls and Devil's Canyon . You can also check out the Tambdi Surla Temple , a temple that has survived since the 12th century, thanks to its remote location in the forest. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings of the Hindu gods Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.

Dating back to 1493, Reis Magos Fort was once a defense structure aimed at protecting the area's then-capital, Goa Velha. Today, the fort is a top attraction in Goa for tourists looking to take a break from the beaches and dive into the state's fascinating history.

The site has a storied past not only as a military outpost, but also as a hospital and a jail. Tourists can see cannons, a small museum exhibit on the fort's history, and jaw-dropping views of the Mandovi River .

After your visit, head to the town's other famous attraction: Reis Magos Church. The pristine white church is one of just a handful of churches in Goa that has processions and re-enactments for the Feast of the Three Kings (Epiphany). Inside the structure, you can see an impressive multi-colored wood relief of a scene that depicts the Three Wise Men handing gifts to the Baby Jesus.

Address: Nerul-Reis Margos Road, beside Three Kings Church, Bardez, Verem, Goa

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Embrace The Susegad Vibe Along Goa's Most Beautiful Places

From pristine beaches and historical churches to cascading waterfalls, our guide unveils the most beautiful places in goa..

By: Shalbha Sarda Published: Apr 17, 2024 01:11 PM UTC

Nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Goa’s allure lies in its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From its sun-kissed beaches to its colonial architecture and mouthwatering cuisine, India’s smallest state by area is a haven that has inspired Bollywood movies and captured the hearts of travellers worldwide. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Goa boasts some of the most beautiful places in India that promise an unforgettable experience for solo travellers, honeymooners, families, and friends alike.

With strong colonial and Portuguese influences and a touch of Chettinad and South India in its culture, everything in Goa appears unique compared to the rest of the country. Whether you long to dance the night away at Anjuna Beach, marvel at the architectural splendour of the Basilica of Bom Jesus, or immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Dudhsagar Falls, our selection of the most beautiful places in Goa ensures that your vacation is nothing short of extraordinary.

Prepare to be mesmerised by the beauty and charm of this coastal paradise with our 10-day Goa itinerary .

Best time to visit the most beautiful places in Goa

Plan your visit to Goa between October and April to enjoy pleasant temperatures ranging from 21°C to 27°C, ideal for exploring its scenic attractions.

Most beautiful and scenic tourist places in Goa

Situated in North Goa, Baga Beach is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist places in the region. In the 1970s, it gained fame as the ‘Ground Zero’ of the hippie movement, drawing travellers along the hippie trail to its shores. Today, it remains a vibrant hub, attracting tourists with its pristine sands, lively atmosphere, and various activities. From thrilling water sports to bustling street markets and beachfront shacks , Baga Beach offers a dynamic blend of relaxation and excitement.

Explore our selection of Goa’s finest beachfront hotels for a dose of sun, sand and luxury.

Timings: Open 24/7

Best hotels: Ronil Goa, and Amara AquaVilla

Best restaurants : Club Tito, Cafe Mambo, and Capetown Café

Book your stay at Ronil Goa via Booking.com

Book your stay at Ronil Goa via Agoda,com

Book your stay at Amara Baga Villa via Booking.com

Book your stay at Amara Baga Villa via Agoda.com

Anjuna Beach

Part of the historic hippie trail, Anjuna Beach gained fame for its trance parties and spiritual atmosphere, blending Eastern mysticism with Western culture. Once an essential trading hub during the Portuguese colonial era, it retains its vibrant energy with bustling markets that continue to draw tourists. One of the most beautiful places in Goa, Anjuna’s allure lies in its unique landscape, characterised by striking black rocky formations contrasting against the pristine blue coastline. The beach hosts the renowned Anjuna Flea Market every Wednesday, offering an eclectic array of trinkets and souvenirs.

Read our review of Slow Tide in Anjuna – an ode to the hippie culture of Goa.

Best hotels: The Westinn Goa, W Goa, Taj Holiday Resort and Spa, Storii By ITC Hotels, and Shanti Morada

Best restaurants : Artjuna Café, Mayan Beach Club, Baba Au Rhum, Purple Martini

Book your stay at Storii by ITC Hotels via Booking.com

Book your stay at Storii by ITC Hotels via Agoda .com

Book your stay at W Goa via Booking.com

Book your stay at W Goa via Agoda.com

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Basilica of bom jesus.

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Old Goa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Basilica of Bom Jesus is an architectural marvel showcasing stunning 16th-century Baroque design, adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures, gold foil paintings, and vibrant frescoes. While it holds significance as a pilgrimage site for Christians, it also beckons non-Christians with its historical and cultural appeal. The basilica’s exceptional acoustics often host concerts, adding to the rich tapestry of Goa’s cultural heritage.

Timings: Open 8 am-6 pm

Best hotels : Ama Stays & Trails Chikoo Villa, and Mercure Devaaya Resort

Best restaurants: Greenyard Restaurant and Bar, The Rasoda, Adelm Goi

Book your stay at amã Stays & Trails Chikoo Villa, Goa via Booking.com

Book your stay at ama Stays & Trails Chikoo Villa, Goa via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Mercure Goa Devaaya Resort via Booking.com

Book your stay at Mercure Goa Devaaya Retreat via Agoda.com

Fort Aguada

Dating back to 1612, Fort Aguada is a historical marvel located at the mouth of the Mandovi River, overlooking the Arabian Sea. The Aguada Fort Lighthouse, erected in 1864, stands as one of the oldest lighthouses in Asia. Originally built as a defence fort housing numerous cannons, Fort Aguada boasts breathtaking views and stands as one of the most beautiful places in Goa. Its expansive complex includes a chapel, barracks, and the iconic lighthouse. Today, it’s a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.

If the beauty of beacons fascinates you, explore our selection of some of the most stunning lighthouses in India that are now open to the public.

Timings: 9.30 am to 6.00 pm

Best hotels: Ahilya by the Sea, Aguada Anchorage – The Villa Resort, and Marbella Guest House

Best restaurants: Tuscan Gardens, Himalaya Restaurant and Bar, and Mermaid

Book your stay at Ahilya By The Sea via Booking.com

Book your stay at Ahilya By The Sea via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Aguada Anchorage - The Villa Resort via Booking.com

Book your stay at Aguada Anchorage via Agoda.com

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Dudhsagar, translating to “sea of milk”, stands as one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Goa. This cascading marvel is a top tourist hotspot, a favourite among Instagrammers, filmmakers, adventure enthusiasts, and families alike. During the monsoon season, the falls reach their pinnacle of beauty, with torrents of water plummeting from 1,000 feet, resembling its milky namesake. Located within the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary near Karnataka’s border, approximately 60 km from the state capital, Panaji, Dudhsagar Waterfalls offers a thrilling adventure for visitors. Explorers can navigate through four different difficulty levels, traversing steep mountain terrain, dense jungles, and river crossings. The most common approach involves a 4×4 vehicle to the Dudhsagar taxi stand, followed by a one-kilometre hike. It’s advisable to carry snacks and water while visiting the falls.

Find more insights with our exclusive Dudhsagar Waterfalls guide.

Timings: 9.00 am to 6.00 pm

Best hotels: Whistling Woods Resort, and Dudhsagar Plantation

Best restaurants : Palacio Do Deao, and Saligao Stories

Book your stay at Dudhsagar Plantation via Booking.com

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Fontainhas Latin Quarter

Fontainhas Latin Quarter in Goa is a must-visit destination, especially if you’ve completed your beach hopping and are seeking to soak in one of the most beautiful places in Goa. Rich in architecture and design, this area is a testament to the Portuguese heritage in Panjim and has been recognised as a UNESCO Heritage Zone since 1984. Explore its history and charm by strolling through a maze of old cafes, bakeries, art galleries, red brick wishing wells, and Portuguese churches.

With colonial houses painted in vibrant colours, a guided or self-guided tour offers a glimpse into a different side of Goa. Indulge in shopping for traditional ceramics at Velha Goa Galeria, relish breathtaking views from Altinho Hill, and make sure not to miss the serene Chapel of St. Sebastian for a moment of spiritual rejuvenation. February is an ideal time to visit, especially during the Fountain Festival.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Best hotels: WelcomHeritage Panjim Inn, and Ama Stays & Trails La Maison Fontainhas

Best restaurants: Viva Panjim, and The Black Sheep Bistro

Book your stay at WelcomHeritage Panjim Inn via Booking.com

Book your stay at WelcomHeritage Panjim Inn Hotel via Agoda.com

Book your stay at amã Stays & Trails La Maison Fontainhas via Booking.com

Book your stay at ama stays & Trails La Maison Fontainhas via Agoda.com

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Church of our lady of immaculate conception.

Situated in the heart of Goa’s capital, Panjim, the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception stands as one of the oldest churches built in Goa, believed to have been constructed before 1541. Perched on a hillside just above the Idalco Palace, built by Adil Shah, the church offers a breathtaking view of the entire city from its gallery. Characterised by simple yet elegant architecture, the church’s main altar is dedicated to Mary Immaculate. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, with attractions such as the Secretariat Building and Mahalaxmi Temple nearby.

Explore the beautiful churches in Goa.

Timings : 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Best hotels: Double Tree By Hilton, and The Crown, Goa

Best restaurants: Copperleaf Porvorim, and Spicy Bella

Book your stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Goa via Booking.com

Book your stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Goa via Agoda.com

Book your stay at The Crown Goa via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Crown Goa via Agoda.com

Related:  Where Past Meets The Present: Best Places To Visit In Old Goa

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

-What are some must-visit natural attractions in Goa? Must-visit natural attractions in Goa include Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, and its numerous beaches.

-What are the best hill stations near Goa? While Goa doesn’t have hill stations, nearby states like Karnataka boast charming hill retreats such as Coorg and Chikmagalur.

-Which are the most scenic drives in Goa? Scenic drives in Goa include the picturesque route from Panaji to Dudhsagar Waterfalls and the coastal drive along the Mandovi River from Old Goa to Dona Paula.

-What are the best religious places in Goa? The best religious places in Goa include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Shantadurga Temple, and Mangeshi Temple.

-Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known beautiful places in Goa? Yes, some off-the-beaten-path destinations in Goa include Tiger Beach, Butterfly Island, Arambol Beach, Cola Beach, and Cabo De Rama.

-What are the best locations for experiencing Goa’s rich cultural heritage? Explore Goa’s rich cultural heritage at locations like Fontainhas (Latin Quarter), Old Goa with its churches and museums, and the Ancestral Goa Museum in Loutolim.

-What are the best adventure activities to do in Goa? Adventure activities in Goa include water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, kayaking, trekking in the Western Ghats for waterfalls, and exploring the spice plantations.

-What are the most beautiful hotels to stay in Goa? Some of the most beautiful hotels in Goa include Ahilya By the Sea, Taj Holiday Resort and Spa, and Ronil Goa.

• beautiful places

Shalbha Sarda

Shalbha Sarda is an architect-turned-journalist and travel writer from India. She loves to talk about travel, food, lifestyle, culture, design and architecture through inflight magazines, newspaper columns, travel publications and her Instagram feed. When not crafting words, you can find her cosied up in bed, indulging in a cheesy romantic comedy or .. Read More immersed in period dramas or BBC documentaries, particularly those narrated by David Attenborough. Read Less

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15 Best Places to Visit in India, According to Travel Experts

F rom the alpine meadows of Kashmir to the palm-fringed beaches of Goa, these are some of the subcontinent’s most enchanting destinations.

As a former longtime Delhiite and frequent traveler to India, people often ask me what the country is like. I never know how to respond, for trying to sum up a nation as vast and diverse as India feels impossible. So, instead, I asked a few experts for their insights.

“If you visit India, you feel you have visited several countries, as every part is different,” says Mohd Shafi Billo, an inbound tour operator who specializes in helping international travelers plan their trips to the country. “It’s an exceptional destination, thanks to its culture, history, and inclusiveness of different people from different faiths, and it has everything to offer, from forts to mausoleums, wildlife tours to mountain adventures.”  

Shoba Rudra, founder and partner at hospitality consultancy Rare India , agrees. “The country is living a dynamic moment in history, ever-changing,” she says. “What's constant, however, is the vibrant culture lived through its festivals, cuisine, heritage, crafts, and performing arts.”

While it would take years to see it all, India is an approachable destination — if you can narrow things down. With that in mind, here are 15 of the best places to get you started on your sojourn to the subcontinent.

Stretching along the southernmost part of India’s Malabar Coast, the tropical state of Kerala entices visitors with its marshy backwaters, which most people visit on overnight houseboat adventures. These popular cruises “showcase lush landscapes and peaceful villages, and [give visitors] a glimpse into local life amid tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings,” says Billo. While the backwaters are a star attraction, the state offers much more to explore, from the tea plantations of Munnar, known for its cool climate and seemingly endless rolling hills, to the historic city of Kochi, celebrated in equal measure for its rich coastal history and contemporary art scene . The beaches aren’t too shabby, either. “North Kerala is also famous, as the Malabar Coast is where the spice trade flourished,” says Rudra. “The coastal area is picturesque and this region is still unexplored.”

On the opposite end of the country from Kerala, Kashmir offers entirely different — but equally captivating — landscapes. With its alpine climate, evergreen trees, and snowy winters, Kashmir is often likened to a mini Switzerland . Famed 13th-century Sufi poet Amir Khusrau once proclaimed in Farsi, “If there is a paradise on earth, it is this,” and he may have been onto something. At the heart of it all is Srinagar, Kashmir’s capital city, which is known for its elegant gardens and watery centerpiece, Dal Lake. “Highlights include staying on a houseboat or taking a shikara [traditional Kashmiri boat] ride,” says Billo, who hails from the area. Don't leave without indulging in wazwan , an opulent, meat-heavy feast that can feature up to three dozen dishes in one sitting. 

Occupying a high-altitude plateau in the northernmost reaches of India, Ladakh is characterized by otherworldly landscapes and big skies, punctuated by palatial stupas and monasteries. Many visitors come to Ladakh’s capital, Leh, during the short summer tourist season, but this surreal region offers plenty more to experience beyond the city. Billo suggests visiting the Nubra Valley, an isolated part of the old Silk Road that’s only accessible by crossing Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes. “The valley offers a glimpse into Ladakh's unique geography and cultural diversity with monasteries, quaint villages, and apricot orchards,” says Billo. The region is also rich with unusual wildlife, from elusive snow leopards to the scaled-down Bactrian camels that originated in the steppes of Central Asia.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

On the banks of the sacred Ganges River, the holy city of Rishikesh has held a place in the hearts of spiritually minded travelers — both from India and abroad — for generations. It’s the self-proclaimed “yoga capital of the world,” with a mix of traditional ashrams (spiritual rest houses) that cater largely to Hindu pilgrims and yoga centers that attract international visitors with teacher-training courses and meditation retreats. If you’re not into yoga, you’ll still find plenty to do here. Popular activities include visiting the ruins of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram (dubbed the Beatles Ashram in honor of its most famous former residents) to whitewater rafting adventures on the mighty Ganges. It’s also a great place for a wellness getaway, and nearby Ananda in the Himalayas was voted one of Travel + Leisure readers' favorite international spas in 2023.

Auroville, Tamil Nadu

If you’re looking for a place that’s unlike anywhere else in India — or, frankly, the world — head to the intentional community of Auroville in South India. This UNESCO-recognized global township was founded in the 1960s with the goal of "realizing human unity," beyond the illusory divisions of creed or nationality, and it's home to generations of residents from around the world. Many visitors come for an hour or two, just long enough to view Auroville’s spiritual center — the golden, dome-shaped Matrimandir . However, it’s worth sticking around a bit longer to get a feel for what the community is about. As Akash Kapur, who grew up in Auroville and authored " Better to Have Gone " and " India Becoming ," puts it: "Come to Auroville if you're interested in alternative societies, sustainable living, or spirituality, but try not to just drop in for a few hours (as many do), and instead spend some time here, really getting to know the people and their work. The community rewards sustained immersion."

Andaman Islands

Although most people associate the crystalline waters of the Andaman Sea with Thai island getaways, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in this tropical region are under Indian control. This little stretch of paradise is full of gorgeous shorelines, but most visitors devote their vacations to the island of Swaraj Dweep (formerly known as Havelock). The most popular beach on the island is Radhanagar Beach , which offers just over a mile of white sand sandwiched between tropical jungle and warm, transparent waters. Getting to this remote island requires a bit of gumption: You'll need to fly from the Indian mainland to Port Blair on South Andaman Island, then catch a ferry or charter a seaplane for the final stretch. While visitors are welcome on many islands in the chain, a few — including secluded North Sentinel Island — are off-limits. 

While many travelers see India’s capital as a jumping-off point for visiting further-afield destinations, it’s worth sticking around for a while to truly appreciate what Delhi has to offer. There’s certainly never a dull moment in this busy metropolis, whether you’re shopping for handicrafts at one of its numerous markets or learning about medieval and Mughal history at one of its three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Humayun's Tomb, Qutb Minar, and Red Fort. Although Delhi is undeniably rambunctious, it also has a quieter, more peaceful side that you can find amidst the trees and 15th-century tombs of Central Delhi’s Lodi Gardens or in the quiet interiors of the Baháʼí Lotus Temple.

Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Many travelers to India put the 17th-century Taj Mahal at the top of their list. This white marble mausoleum is easily India’s most recognizable structure — and it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World . This popular attraction also has a romantic backstory. “This iconic symbol of love is renowned for its architectural beauty, intricate marble work, and the captivating story behind its creation by emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal,” notes Billo. The bodies of the emperor and his wife remain interred in the Taj to this day. 

Jaipur. Rajasthan

The capital of Rajasthan and one-third of North India’s popular Golden Triangle tourist route (which also includes Agra and Delhi), Jaipur is a must-visit for those who love architecture and shopping. “The Pink City, as it's nicknamed, offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning [landmarks] like Amber Fort, vibrant bazaars, and intricate handicrafts,” says Billo. Many of Jaipur's key attractions are found in the historic walled part of the city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Highlights include Jantar Mantar (a collection of oversized — and fully functional — astronomical instruments dating to the 17th century) and Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, a honeycomb-shaped palace designed with tiny windows that allowed air to flow freely through its interior.

Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Dubbed the Blue City because of the cerulean-colored buildings that extend for miles through the oldest part of town, Jodhpur has long attracted travelers eager to explore the ramparts of the larger-than-life Mehrangarh Fort. It’s also home to the grandiose Umaid Bhawan Palace , which made headlines in 2018 when Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas tied the knot there. While Jodhpur’s beautiful, regal architecture is reason enough to visit, there’s more to the city than massive forts and grand palaces. “The area around the Toorji ka Jhalra stepwell in the old city is fun to explore,” says hotelier Sapna Bhatia, owner of Kaner Retreat and Jodhpur-area native. “For nature enthusiasts, there’s the Rao Jodha desert park near Mehrangarh Fort.”

Udaipur, Rajasthan

T+L readers' favorite city in Asia and second favorite city in the world , Udaipur very much fits the bill of a fairy tale destination. Nicknamed the City of Lakes, thanks to its seven lakes, this gorgeous destination is home to some of India's finest luxury hotels plus historic whitewashed palaces, including the magnificent City Palace, an 11-palace complex that houses hotels, a huge museum with an impressive collection of European crystal, and a royal residence. A short boat ride from the palace lies the 18th-century Taj Lake Palace, an opulent palace-turned-hotel in the middle of Lake Pichola. It’s a quick drive from The Oberoi, Udaivilas , a purpose-built palatial hotel with onion-domed cupolas and a moat-like swimming pool that directly connects to some of the rooms. 

If you’re looking for a less-frequented, but no less amazing, alternative to more touristed states such as Rajasthan, consider Gujarat. “Under-explored but culturally rich, this state in India is a tapestry of festivals, textiles, architectural heritage, communities, and landscape,” says Rudra. Gujarat was also the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, who led the Salt March, one of his most famous acts of peaceful protest, through the state in 1930. Rudra suggests visiting the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial , which “honors the activists through murals, installations, sculptures, art, and related film.” It's also worth checking out the Kutch district, known for its distinct metal bells , which were originally used for keeping track of livestock and are now popular as decorative wind chimes.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

The northeast Indian state of Assam is home to a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts: Kaziranga National Park . This expansive, UNESCO-listed wildlife refuge near the borders of Bangladesh and Bhutan has the largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses on the planet, providing a home to roughly 2,000 of these massive beasts. Although rhinos are the star attraction on park safaris, all sorts of animals live here, including tigers, elephants, gibbons, sloth bears, and a small number of endangered Ganges River dolphins. 

Historic, glitzy, and positively gargantuan, Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) is easily one of India’s most cosmopolitan destinations. This city by the sea is the nation's financial and entertainment capital, and while you’re unlikely to rub shoulders with Bollywood stars here, you're sure to see a lot of impressive attractions in very little time. Take a boat out to Elephanta Island to explore fifth– and sixth–century rock-hewn cave temples, marvel at the grand Indo-Saracenic architecture at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus , or see thousands of clothes hanging out to dry at Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry. Then, head to the sleek neighborhood of Bandra West, where many of Mumbai’s best restaurants and hotels are located, including Taj Lands End, voted T+L readers' favorite city hotel in India in 2023.

India’s smallest state, Goa, is arguably its top beach destination, where long days of swimming and sunbathing turn into longer nights of partying on the sand. While Goa has been known as a hippie haven since the 1960s, it's started to shed its reputation in recent decades. It’s still very much a party state, though it also draws in families and couples in search of sea and sun, sans nightlife. It’s a great place for history buffs as well, with numerous seaside forts and UNESCO-recognized churches that were built when Goa was under Portuguese rule. And while the destination has always been loved for its fiery dishes that combine traditional Konkani ingredients with Portuguese influences, it has also emerged as a culinary hot spot , where a new generation of chefs is showcasing everything from Japanese yakitori to jackfruit tamales.

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