Goa is located on the west coast of India and is known for its beautiful beaches and sparkling blue waters. Baga, Calangute, Vagator, Palolem, and Anjuna are just a few of the most beautiful beaches you can find here. But Goa is not just about its coastline, there are many other things you can do here than just relaxing on the beaches. No matter in which part of this tiny state you are located, you will find plenty to do. You can also immerse yourself in the colonial history of this state, which was once a Portuguese colony. This essence can be felt in the architecture, music, and food of Goa. You can, in fact, pay a visit at Old Goa if you are looking to experience some Portuguese influence. You can explore the vibrant markets in Goa and, of course, interact with the locals, who approach tourists in a friendly manner. Goa is certainly one of India’s most visited destinations, and here is what you can do when you are here—
- Spend some amazing time on the beaches-
The coastline of Goa in western India runs along the Arabian Sea. There are many beaches to choose from but Agonda and Calangute are the best beaches here. So, you can take a dip in the Arabian Sea or try your hand at one of the many water sports available. Jet skiing at Dona Paula beach, flyboarding, parasailing, and kayaking are all popular water sports in Goa.
You can enjoy diving, snorkelling and swimming as well. What else? You might spot dolphins while on a cruise. You can also just watch the people as they sip on beer and enjoy fresh seafood at the many shacks along the beaches.
- The Dudhsagar Waterfalls are a must- see-
The famous Dudhsagar Falls is located at the easternmost tip of Goa, where it meets Karnataka. It measures an impressive 603m and is India’s second-highest waterfall. The jeep ride to the falls can be an unforgettable experience for you on your Goa vacation. It takes you to the Bhagwan Mahavir wildlife sanctuary, then on a short, uneven hike to the base of it. After that, you can swim in the deep turquoise pool. This is truly one of the most amazing things to do in Goa.
- Take a train and travel to Hampi-
Hampi, one of Southern India’s most beautiful archaeological sites, is situated around 330km east from Goa in the state of Karnataka. It is also one of the top attractions close to Goa. The city was once the imperial capital and largest Hindu empire in Indian history. It was demolished by an alliance of Deccani Sultans in 1565. The striking ruins of the city are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Go on a spice plantation tour-
Enjoy a half-day Spice Plantation tour if you love spices and wish to see how they are grown. As you tour the farm, a local will guide you.
You will be able to see rural Goan settings and traditional Goan organic farming techniques here. Lunch in Goan mud-pots or banana-leaf “plates” is also something to look forward to. Heady spice aromas will absolutely delight your taste buds!
- Goan food is delicious- don’t leave Goa without sampling it!
One of the best things to do in Goa is to eat the local food here. Every ingredient is carefully selected to create flavourful and delicious dishes that excite and delight the senses. Goan cuisine, a fusion of Portuguese and Hindu flavours, is unique to this small state. Coconut milk is almost a staple in Goan cuisine and is mixed with spices and aromatic herbs to create delicious dishes. Goan curries are mostly cooked with freshly caught fish and served with Rice.
- Visit the Saturday Night Market for a never-before experience-
One of the most popular attractions in Goa is the bustling Saturday Night Market, located near Arpora. As you walk past rows upon rows of souvenir stalls, exotic smells of street food fill your nostrils. You will find many souvenirs here to take back home, including beautiful jewellery, semi-precious gemstones, brassware, wooden handicrafts and colourful knotted hammocks.
- Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus to see the Mummy of Francis Xavier-
It’s not everywhere in India that you expect to see a mummy. But Goa has that too in offer for its tourists. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus and you will see the famous mummy of Francis Xavier. This stunning church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Goa and is well-known for its architectural brilliance. This structure, which dates back 400 years, is rich in history. It has an exterior that is unplastered and an interior with ornamented details. This church’s main feature is the mummified body of St. Francis Xavier kept protected inside a silver casket.
- Visit the famous Mangueshi Temple-
The magnificent Mangueshi Temple is one of the most important temples in Goa. It is dedicated to Mangesh, lord Shiva’s reincarnation. This structure, which dates back almost 500 years, is well preserved and houses many ancient artefacts.
This temple is home to many relics including a water tank, an assembly hall, a lamp tower, as well as chandeliers. Everything it has got offers it immense historical and archaeological significance.
- Enjoy your stay in a villa-
Holidays are near and it’s time to pack up your bags and go on a vacation. But when it comes to accommodation, it’s hard to control the temptation to stay too close to the ocean, especially when you are in Goa. And that is why seaside villas are so popular. The vibe of seaside villas is simply unique. The reason why people should consider hiring villas in Goa is that they are a great place to relax and calm down the nerves.
You feel completely different when you live in a luxury villa by the sea, no matter how long your stay is. You can choose a villa that is within your budget to enjoy your dream vacation without burning big holes in your pocket.
Goa is a unique destination that entices tourists in its own unique way. No matter if it’s your first or tenth trip, there will be something new waiting for you here. So, why wait? Let yourself be seduced by the beauty and charm of Goa.
