Goa

Goa – “The Rome of the East”

Goa is a small state on the western coast of India, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture.  Goa is also known as “The Miami. of India”. Here are ten experiences that you must have when visiting Goa.

Explore the Beaches

Goa is famous for its stunning beaches, with a long coastline stretching along the Arabian Sea. The state has something for everyone, from the party beaches of Baga and Calangute to the quiet and serene beaches of Palolem and Agonda.

The beaches of North Goa are known for their vibrant party scene, with beach shacks, bars, and nightclubs offering a lively atmosphere. The beaches of South Goa, on the other hand, are known for their tranquility and natural beauty, with long stretches of white sand and crystal-clear water.

Visit the Churches

Goa has a rich colonial history, and the influence of the Portuguese can be seen in the state’s architecture and culture. The state is home to several beautiful churches that reflect this history, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, located in Old Goa, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, located in the town of Old Goa, is known for its Baroque architecture and beautiful murals.

Indulge in the Cuisine

Goan cuisine is a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese flavors, with seafood being a staple ingredient. The state is known for its spicy curries, seafood delicacies, and sweet desserts.

Some of the must-try dishes include the famous Goan fish curry, vindaloo, and sorpotel. You can also indulge in the local drink, feni, which is made from cashew or coconut.

Explore the Spice Plantations

Goa is home to several spice plantations, where you can explore the lush greenery and learn about the spices used in Goan cuisine. The Sahakari Spice Farm and the Tropical Spice Plantation are two of the most popular plantations in Goa.

You can take a guided tour of the plantations, where you can see the cultivation of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper. You can also enjoy a traditional Goan meal, prepared with freshly harvested spices.

Experience Water Sports

Goa is a paradise for adventure seekers, with several water sports activities available along the coastline. You can try your hand at parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and scuba diving.

The beaches of Baga and Calangute are known for their water sports activities, with several vendors offering packages for different activities.

Attend a Music Festival

Goa is known for its vibrant music scene, with several music festivals happening throughout the year. The Sunburn Festival, held in December, is one of the most popular music festivals in Goa, attracting music lovers from all over the world.

The Goa Jazz Festival, held in November, is another popular festival that celebrates the jazz music scene in the state.

Take a Cruise

Goa is known for its picturesque backwaters, and you can take a cruise along the Mandovi River to explore the natural beauty of the state. The cruises offer stunning views of the sunset, with live music and entertainment on board.

You can also indulge in a dinner cruise, where you can enjoy a candlelit dinner while cruising along the river.

Visit the Wildlife Sanctuaries

Goa is home to several wildlife sanctuaries, where you can see the rich biodiversity of the state. The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary are two of the most popular sanctuaries in Goa.

The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats and covers an area of over 240 square kilometers. The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, deer, and monkeys. You can take a guided trek through the sanctuary to explore the natural beauty of the area.

The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, located on the island of Chorao in the Mandovi River, is a bird lover’s paradise. The sanctuary is home to over 400 species of birds, including kingfishers, herons, and egrets. You can take a boat ride through the mangrove forests to spot the colorful birds in their natural habitat.

Visit the Forts

Goa has a rich history of European colonization, and the state is home to several forts that reflect this history. The Aguada Fort, located on the Sinquerim Beach, is one of the most popular forts in Goa. The fort was built in the 17th century to protect the Portuguese from invaders and is known for its stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

The Chapora Fort, located on a hill in North Goa, is another popular fort that offers stunning views of the coastline. The fort gained fame after being featured in the Bollywood movie Dil Chahta Hai.

Explore the Local Markets

Goa is known for its vibrant local markets, where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Goan products. The Anjuna Flea Market, held every Wednesday, is one of the most popular markets in Goa. The market is known for its colorful and eclectic collection of clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts.

The Mapusa Market, held every Friday, is another popular market where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs. The market is a great place to sample local Goan snacks and delicacies.

In Conclusion

Goa is a beautiful state with a rich history and culture, and there are plenty of experiences to be had when visiting the state. From exploring the beaches and forts to indulging in the local cuisine and music scene, Goa offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, and head to Goa for an unforgettable holiday experience.

The Best time to visit Goa?

The best time to visit Goa is from November to February. The temperature is between 21 ⁰C and 27 ⁰C.