Whether admiring Indian history or simply relaxing on a beach with a good book, Goa is full of things to do for any visitors, and to help you decide what to prioritize during your stay here is our list of 12 Things to do in Goa.
Fontainhas
The oldest of Goa’s Portuguese quarters, Fontainhas is a UNESCO-certified heritage zone.
The old Latin quarter is full of Portuguese-style villas, narrow streets, and beautiful balconies reminiscent of many European cities. A highlight of this beautiful neighborhood is the Chapel of Saint Sebastian, a stunning structure constructed in 1880.
Calangute Beach
Also known as the Queen of Beaches, Calangute beach is the go-to tourist beach in India.
Located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, there isn’t much that makes this beach stand out from others besides its sheer size. That being said, there are plenty of stalls and shacks selling anything from food and drink to souvenirs.
Sahakari Spice Farm
India as a whole is well known for its food and spices, why not see where it all comes from by visiting Sahakari Spice Farm.
From turmeric to cinnamon, the spice farm has rows and rows of fresh spices that you are able to sample during your visit. Though sampling the spices on their own may not be for everyone, something that would appeal to most is to stay at the in-house restaurant and enjoy a meal making use of the delicious fresh spices.
Mahadeva Temple
Being constructed in the twelfth century Mahadeva Temple is Goa’s oldest temple having survived due to its location in the middle of secluded forests.
The rather quaint temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva and has several pillars decorated with intricate carvings of mythological figures and symbols of a local dynasty from centuries ago.
Anjuna Flea Market
Originally founded as a hippie exchange over three decades ago Anjuna Flea Market is now a bustling weekly market where you can find products from all sorts of vendors.
For anyone that enjoys thrift shopping and finding a good deal, this is a must-visit. For those of us that aren’t huge fans of shopping it’s still well worth a visit just to admire the scenic beachside market, due to all the colours and smells on offer this is truly a feast for the senses.
Dudhsagar Falls
Goa’s tallest waterfall, Dudhsagar Falls is a beautiful natural structure standing in the middle of dense forests.
The falls are a popular destination for anyone who enjoys hiking and adventuring. Though the trek can be taxing for inexperienced hikers the reward of seeing the falls in all their glory is well worth it. (You can visit the area by car if you think you wouldn’t be able to make the journey on foot).
Se Cathedral
Considered the largest church in all of Asia. Se Cathedral has been in service since 1640 making it also one of Goa’s oldest churches.
While one of the cathedral’s pair of towers did collapse in 1776, the one that still stands houses a large bell known as the Golden Bell. This, combined with the beautiful green lawns and plain white structure make Se Cathedral a truly serene sight to behold.
Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary
Spanning 240 square kilometres and containing many temples, Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary that houses a huge variety of animals.
From black panthers and Bengal tigers to flying squirrels and macaques the sanctuary houses animals of all sorts as well as several water sources that provide water to the park and nearby areas. This is without a doubt one of the more unique places to visit while in India.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Witness some ancient historical art while visiting the Roman Basilica of Bom Jesus.
The Portuguese design-inspired church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the more serene and tranquil places to visit in an otherwise fast-moving and energetic city. We recommend making this one of the last places you visit on your journey in order to unwind among the beautiful architecture.
Arpora Saturday Night Bazaar
If Anjuna Flea Market is where to go shopping during the day then Arpora is the nighttime partner.
As well as the expected stalls of shopping and food, it also takes the form of a large, outdoor party with bars and lives music that really brings the whole Bazaar to life. This is one of the best ways to experience Goa all in one night due to the sheer amount and variety of things on offer
Fort Aguada
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Goa, Fort Aguada has year-round tourist visits for its stunning scenery and incredible architecture.
A four-story lighthouse is the main highlight of the fort standing among the crumbling ramparts of the fort. The views from atop the lighthouse are unparalleled as they give picturesque views of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea.
Vagator Beach
If the hustle and bustle of Calangute Beach are a bit much for you then consider visiting Vagator Beach instead.
A lot quieter of a beach than other options in Goa, Vagator is a pleasant beach to relax upon. The beachside restaurants are also extremely accommodating and will actually bring food and drink to you while you relax on a sun lounger and admire the stunning scenery.
