A Quirky Trail Through Goa: Sips, Sun, Surf

Beaches of Goa

Goa’s beaches are world-famous and offer an unforgettable combination of stunning views, exciting activities, and relaxation. Each beach has its own vibe, making them a must-visit.

Most-loved Gems of North Goa:

#1 Baga Beach

Baga Beach is one of Goa's most famous beaches and is also very commercial. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, water sports, shacks, flea bazaar and sumptuous seafood. Located in North Goa, it draws a mix of tourists, from families on vacation to large groups of youngsters seeking some fun and relaxing time. During the daytime, you can enjoy soaking the sun on the sunbed or indulge in water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, and banana boat rides. As the sun sets make the most buzzing nightclubs, open bars and shacks.

#2 Calangute Beach

On the other side of Baga lies Calangute. It is equally popular and commercial and mostly very crowded. Often referred to as the “Queen of Beaches,” it is packed with tourists enjoying the sun and sand, and engaging in water sports like parasailing, windsurfing, and water skiing. There are numerous restaurants along the coast offering delicious Goan cuisine, shops selling beachwear and jewellery, beer shops with a variety of spirits and more.

#3 Anjuna Beach

Known for its hippie vibe, Anjuna Beach, was the hub of the 1960s counterculture movement. The beach has white sand and beautiful blue water that is truly captivating. This place is known for its rave parties, full-moon parties, flea markets, and stunning rock formations. The most popular attraction of this place is the Wednesday flea market where you can shop for trinkets, clothing, and other souvenirs. You can book shacks and homestays here if you planning a longer trip. 

#4 Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach a popular spot for trance parties is close to the popular Chapora Fort. It offers the ideal balance between scenic beauty and peaceful isolation from the otherwise crowded Baga and Calangute. With the dramatic red cliffs, Vagator offers spectacular views, especially during sunsets. Don’t forget to take a short hike on Chapora Fort when you are around, the view is just worth it!

#5 Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach, located in the far north, has a more laid-back, bohemian vibe and is popular with international tourists looking for a retreat. The beach is known for its drum circles, sunset parties, yoga, and holistic therapies. It’s also a great spot for paragliding, as the winds here are ideal for soaring over the sea.

The pristine beaches of South Goa:

#6 Palolem Beach

This beauty in South Goa, Palolem Beach has recently gained popularity for its crescent-shaped coastline dotted with palm trees and the soothing vibe. It is one of the most picturesque beaches and unlike the crowded beaches of North Goa, Palolem offers a more serene setting. You can rent a cosy beach hut here and enjoy kayaking, dolphin-watching trips, or simply bask under the soothing sun with a chilled drink in hand.

#7 Colva Beach

Known for its 2.4 km of white sand and coconut groves, Colva Beach located in Margao, South Goa is the most popular beach. It is calm, not party heavy and perfect to have a relaxing time with your loved ones. The best time to visit Colva is early in the morning when it’s not crowded and the sea is calm and inviting.

#8 Galgibaga Beach

Just a few kilometres away from the popular Palolem beach lies Galgibaga, lesser known, and just heavenly! Known as the nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles, Galgibaga is fringed with coconut palms and tall pine trees. The gushing waves, golden sand and soothing breeze make it a sight to behold and ideal for spending some fun time with loved ones.

A Tryst with History in Goa

Goa is home to a rich blend of Portuguese and Indian heritage. The following landmarks provide insight into the state’s fascinating past.

 #1 Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most significant churches in Goa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1605, it houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. The church is a fine example of Baroque architecture, with its marble flooring and intricately carved wooden altars. Pilgrims from all over the world come to visit this religious site.

 #2 Se Cathedral

Located in Old Goa, Se Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Asia and is known for its Portuguese-Gothic architecture. It was built to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese over a Muslim army, leading to the capture of Goa in 1510. The highlight of the cathedral is its Golden Bell, one of the largest in the world.

#3 Chapora Fort

Perched high above Vagator Beach, Chapora Fort was originally built by the Portuguese in 1617. The fort, which was once a stronghold against enemy invasions, now offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and lush green fields. It gained popularity after being featured in the Bollywood movie Dil Chahta Hai.

#4 Aguada Fort

Aguada Fort, built in 1612, is located in North Goa and was a crucial defensive structure for the Portuguese. The fort was designed to guard against Dutch and Maratha attacks and also houses a lighthouse, which is one of the oldest of its kind in Asia. Visitors are treated to expansive views of the Arabian Sea.

#5 Reis Magos Fort

Located on the banks of the Mandovi River, Reis Magos Fort is one of Goa’s oldest forts. It was used as a defence post by the Portuguese and later served as a prison. Today, it has been restored and offers a look into Goa's colonial history, with exhibits showcasing artefacts and photographs from the Portuguese era.

#6 Goa State Museum

 
If you wish to dive deep into the city’s history and culture, the Goa State Museum, located in Panaji, is a great place to visit. The museum showcases ancient coins, sculptures, manuscripts and other exclusive artefacts from the Portuguese era and other times. Do consider this place if you wish to see the other side of this city.

#7 House of Goa Museum

 This unique space designed by the renowned architect Gerard da Cunha is a must-visit for architecture buffs. It is dedicated to showcasing the unique Indo-Portuguese architecture of Goa and is shaped like a house. The museum beautifully displays artefacts related to Goan houses, including furniture, tiles, and other architectural elements through the centuries. 

 

#8 Big Foot Museum and Ancestral Goa

 Located in Loutolim, the Big Foot Museum gets its unique name because of a large footprint, which is said to belong to a Hindu sage. It is an open-air cultural museum that showcases Goan rural life in the form of life-sized statues depicting traditional occupations, village life, and popular religious practices.

Religious Sites of Goa

Despite its strong influence and association with Christianity due to its Portuguese past, Goa is home to many ancient Hindu temples as well. These temples and churches dwell in perfect harmony and beautifully depict history, culture and traditional Goan architecture and stand as a testament to the region's pre-colonial Hindu roots. 

#1 Shri Mangeshi Temple

Located in Ponda, it is one of Goa's most famous temples. Shri Mangeshi Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its serene atmosphere, elegant architecture, and a magnificent seven-story deep stambha (lamp tower) that is lit up beautifully, especially during the festive season. The temple's design reflects a mix of indigenous and Portuguese influences, especially in its whitewashed façade.

#2 Shri Shantadurga Temple

Nestled in the lush hills of Kavlem, this temple is dedicated to Shantadurga, the goddess of peace. The temple's striking red traditional façade, deep stambha and the calm environment surrounding it puts you at peace immediately. Inside the temple sanctum, the goddess is depicted in a rare form, mediating between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.

#3 Tambdi Surla Temple

Hidden deep within the Western Ghats, the Tambdi Surla Temple is one of Goa's oldest surviving temples, dating back to the 12th century. It is built in the Kadamba style of architecture and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The intricate carvings on the black basalt stone, surrounded by dense forest, make this temple a hidden treasure for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

#4 Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church 

This church is unmissable as it is one of the most prominent landmarks in Panaji, Goa! Built in 1541, the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, with a striking white façade and zig-zag stairs that are truly eye-catching. Celebrated on December 8 is the very popular annual Feast of the Immaculate Conception, when the church is beautifully lit up and a grand procession takes place.

Apart from this the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral mentioned in the above section are also very popular and must be visited.

The Eclectic Bazaars of Goa

Goa’s flea markets are a treasure trove of quirky finds, offering everything from clothing to handicrafts. 
 
#1 Anjuna Flea Market 
This rather popular flea market of North Goa, Anjuna Flea is held every Wednesday and draws everyone from every corner. At this flea, you are sure to find everything, and we mean EVERYTHING! From jewellery to clothes, to home décor to food to handicrafts…. the list is exhaustive. It’s a bustling affair where the live music fills up the air with that perfect relaxing vibe. This market is a great place to visit with your loved ones, soak up Goa’s unique culture and pick up some memorable keepsakes.

#2 Mapusa Market 

This is one of the vibrant local markets of Goa that is held every Friday. 

It is here you can find fresh local produce like fish, veggies, fruits and spices. Mapusa Market offers an authentic Goan experience, with stalls selling traditional Goan pottery, homemade sausages (chouriço), cashews, and feni (a local spirit made from cashews or coconut). You can also pick up traditional Goan sweets like Bebinca and Dodol here apart from handicrafts, and textiles. 

#3 Calangute Market 

Calangute Market Square, located near Calangute Beach, is a great place for tourists to shop for souvenirs like beachwear, handicrafts, jewellery, and local art. You can also find local street food stalls of Goan snacks, seafood, and other delicacies. 

#4 Mackie’s Night Bazaar 

Mackie’s Night Bazaar, located on the banks of the Baga River, is an exciting option. As the name suggests, it happens only at night and is a lively market with lots of shopping, music, and food making the atmosphere very festive and energetic. The stalls offer a wide range of goods, including jewellery, handicrafts, clothing, and home décor items.
 
#5 Ingo’s Saturday Night Bazaar 
Another popular night market is Ingo’s Saturday Night Bazaar, located in Arpora. It has a cosmopolitan vibe, attracting a mix of locals and tourists. You can find thousands of stalls selling clothes, jewellery, handmade crafts, organic products, food that is both local and international, live performances, fire dancers, and bars where you can enjoy a drink while you shop.

Festivals, Events and Everything in Between 

Goa is known for its vibrant festivals, where locals and tourists come together to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the state. 
 
#1 Goa Carnival 
The Goa Carnival, held annually in February or March, is one of the most anticipated events in the state. The whole city lights up for this festival with music, dance, and food at the core of this celebration. This four-day extravaganza features parades with colourful floats, murals, street performances, live music, and a lot of dancing. Thousands of people from Goa and neighbouring states visit the city to witness this grand celebration of life each year.

#2 Feast of St.Francis Xavier

The feast of St.Francis Xavier is celebrated on 3rd December every year. His remains lie in the Basilica of Bom Jesus, encased in a silver casket. St. Francis Xavier was a very important missionary and was one of the prominent individuals who spread the Christian faith and the Roman Catholic church in several parts of India. 
 
#3 Shigmo Festival   
This unique festival marks the onset of spring and is similar to Holi. Shigmo is a spring festival celebrated by the Hindu community in Goa. It includes colourful parades, folk dances, music, and vibrant decorations. This is greatly participated by the locals who put together traditional dance performances, plays and songs giving tourists a taste of age-old rituals.

#4 IFFI Festival

The International Film Festival of India is an annual film festival founded in 1952. It is currently held in Goa, and the festival curates some of the most amazing movies and stories from around the world. This platform showcases upcoming filmmakers and industry professionals and hosts screenings, awards and other such events that celebrate both Indian and world cinema. If you are around this time, do take part in the festival. It is an enriching experience.

 
#5 Christmas and New Year   
Goa is a beauty during Christmas when every house lights up with stunning decorations, light arrangements and festivities. It is undoubtedly one of the best places in India to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Churches are beautifully lit, and midnight masses are held across Goa. On New Year's Eve, beach parties, fireworks, and music events take place across the state that attract tourists from around the world.

#6 Sunburn Music Festival

Touted as Asia’s Largest Music Festival, this is an event of the year that attracts one and all. Electronic artists from all over the world perform at this 3-day festival which is a spectacle worth attending. The energy is electrifying, and the vibe is just out of this world. Goa usually becomes very crowded during this time so it’s best to do your bookings well in advance to avoid last-minute hiked-up prices.

Wildlife and Adventure Galore 

Goa’s natural beauty extends beyond its beaches to include green lush forests and a few wildlife sanctuaries that are home to some exotic flora and fauna specific to the region. 
 
#1 Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary 
One of the smallest but most popular wildlife reserves in Goa, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is loved by all. It is a great destination to spend some memorable time with family and children and enjoy sightings of a variety of animals, including leopards, bison, deer, and various bird species. The sanctuary also features a botanical garden and a deer park, making it a great destination for nature and animal lovers. 
 
#2 Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary 
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot and home to home to Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, and rare species of birds. The lush landscapes, waterfalls, and trekking opportunities make this a perfect spot for adventurers and families alike. 
 
#3 Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary 
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest in the state. Located in South Goa, it is known for its dense forests, towering trees, and rich wildlife. Visitors can spot animals like sloth bears, Indian bison, flying squirrels, and snakes. One of the interesting features of this sanctuary is the tall watchtowers where you can observe animals/birds in their natural habitat.

#9 Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

 
Named after the renowned Indian ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, this sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and the smallest protected area of Goa. Located on Chorao Island in the Mandovi River, it’s home to numerous species of birds both resident and migratory. The sanctuary also features a variety of mangrove ecosystems, making it an interesting spot for ecological study. 
 
Some other popular opportunities for adventure are, 
 
#1 Dudhsagar Waterfalls 
One of the most beautiful spots in Goa is the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, which took the internet by storm a few years back with its picturesque locale and abundant greenery. Located on the borders of Goa and Karnataka, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The name "Dudhsagar" translates to "Sea of Milk," aptly describing the frothy, white waters that cascade gushingly from a height of 310 meters. Adventure enthusiasts can trek to the falls, or take a jeep safari through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary to witness this natural marvel that is oh-so-popular! 
 
#2 Scuba Diving in Grande Island 
Grande Island, located off the coast of Vasco da Gama, is a hotspot for scuba diving in Goa. Several operators offer scuba diving courses and excursions for both beginners and experienced divers and if you are planning to get certified then this is the place for you. Your diving expedition will get you close to colourful corals, various species of fish, and other interesting finds. 
 
#3 Hot Air Balloon Ride in Assolda 
For a bird’s-eye view of Goa’s breathtaking landscapes, hot air balloon rides are an incredible experience. In Assolda, located in South Goa, visitors can take a ride at sunrise or sunset, soaring over green fields, rivers, and palm trees. 
 
To explore a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese influences you can visit these interesting places:

 
#4 Fontainhas 
Fontainhas is just picture-perfect with its Portuguese-style houses, quaint cafes, and art galleries. This cosy Latin Quarteris a UNESCO World Heritage site and is replete with eclectic colours and walking through the narrow lanes is a sheer treat to the eyes. For a tryst with its colonial past and to capture some quirky pictures, a visit to Fontainhas is a must!

With this, we have covered most of the interesting places that you can consider during your next Goa trip. You can pick different places from each of the categories and enjoy various moods that this city is all about.

Goa is undeniably one of the few Indian states that offer a rich blend of experiences, each more vibrant than the other. From beaches to historic sites to local cuisine to museums, exploring this city is just something! It is a destination where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist making it perfect for travellers from anywhere in the world, irrespective of their age group — it’s like a rhythm that calls you time and again.

So, have you got your calling yet?