Exploring Goa: Top Attractions You Must Visit

By Prakash Joshi 8 Min Read
complete guide of goa

Introduction:

  • Goa is one of the most visited tourist destinations, attracting people year-round.
  • Known for its beaches, cool breezes, cruises, seafood, and adventure sports.

 

Map Overview:

  • Goa can be divided into two parts: North Goa and South Goa.
  • The journey begins from South Goa and moves towards North Goa.

 

Attraction 1: Cabo De Rama Fort

    • Location: 18 km from Aguada Fort in South Goa.
    • Size: Spreads across 44 acres.
    • History:
      • Ruled by Mughals, British, and Portuguese.
      • Renovated by the Portuguese in the 18th century.
      • Associated with Lord Rama, believed to have stayed here during his exile.
    • Significance:
      • One of the oldest forts in Goa.
      • Features St. Antonio Church and served as a prison from 1935-45.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 9 AM to 5:30 PM; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 2: Heart Shaped Lake

    • Unique Feature: Lake shaped like a heart, visible after the monsoon.
    • Location: 10 minutes from Bogmalo Beach.
    • Experience: Surrounded by the sea on three sides, offering a peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking sunset views.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 7 AM to 6 PM.

 

Attraction 3: Kesarval Waterfall

    • Alternate Name: Verna Waterfall.
    • Seasonality: Active during the monsoon (July-September).
    • Beliefs: Said to have healing properties that cure skin diseases.
    • Location: 20-25 minutes from the airport.
    • Visiting Information: Open all day; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 4: Vasco Da Gama

    • Location: South Goa, near Dabolim Airport.
    • Historical Significance: A town of strategic importance during Portuguese rule.
    • Experience:
      • Explore Portuguese architecture, beaches, and the vibrant local culture.
      • Famous beaches include Bogmalo Beach.
    • Visiting Information: Open all day; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 5: South Goa Beaches

    1.  Palolem Beach: 

      • Location: On the Goa-Karnataka border.
      • Experience: Ideal for a peaceful, less crowded beach day.
      • Visiting Information: Open from 6 AM to 10 PM; no entry fee.
    2.  Butterfly Beach:

      • Access: Requires a trek; can’t be reached by vehicles.
      • Experience: Isolated and adventurous, best accessed by boat.
      • Visiting Information: Open from 6 AM to 10 PM; no entry fee.
    3.  Colva Beach:

      • Unique Feature: Largest and most commercial beach in South Goa.
      • Experience: Ideal for shopping, dining, and enjoying seafood.
      • Visiting Information: Open 24 hours; no entry fee.
    4. Bogmalo Beach:

      • Location: 3-4 km from the airport.
      • Experience: Known for affordable water sports and peaceful vibes.
      • Visiting Information: Open from 6 AM to 10 PM; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 6: Dudhsagar Waterfall

    • Location: In the lush green forests of Bhagwan Mahavir National Park, Sangam district.
    • Height: 1000 feet tall.
    • Experience:
      • The water appears milky white, offering a perfect spot for swimming and picnics.
      • Accessible via a trek or Jeep ride from Kulem Railway Station.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 9 AM to 6 PM; Jeep ride costs ₹650, no entry fee for walking.

 

Attraction 7: Shri Mahadev Temple Tambdi Surla

    • Location: Near Dudhsagar Waterfalls, East Goa.
    • History:
      • Dedicated to Lord Shiva, constructed in the 12th century.
      • An example of Kadamba-Yadava architecture.
    • Experience: A serene and divine temple, recognized as an archaeological site.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 8: Shree Mangesh Temple

    • Location: 22 km from Panjim in Mangeshi Village.
    • Significance:
      • Dedicated to Lord Mangesh, an avatar of Lord Shiva.
      • Steeped in history and mythology, attracting devotees for over 400 years.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 6 AM to 10 PM; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 9: Basilica of Bom Jesus

    • Location: 10 km from Panjim.
    • Historical Importance:
      • UNESCO World Heritage Site.
      • Houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
      • Foundation laid in 1594, completed in 1605.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 9 AM to 6:30 PM; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 10: SE Cathedral

    • Location: Old Goa, beside the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
    • Claim: The largest church in Asia, dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria.
    • Historical Significance: Constructed in 1940, with notable architecture and a Golden Bell.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 7:30 PM to 6 PM; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 11: Church of Immaculate Conception

    • Location: City center of Panjim.
    • History:
      • Also known as the White Church, constructed before 1542.
      • Featured in many Bollywood movies.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 9 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM; entry fee is ₹10.

 

Attraction 12: Panjim Market

    • Location: Near the Church of Immaculate Conception, city center.
    • Experience: Ideal for purchasing local handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, etc.
    • Special Feature: The Goa Carnival Parade passes through this market.
    • Visiting Information: Open all day; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 13: Goa Casinos

    • Location: On casino cruises docked at the Mandovi River, Panjim.
    • Experience:
      • Offer unlimited food, drinks, entertainment, and a unique cruise experience.
      • Casino Pride is the most affordable, starting at ₹1500.
    • Visiting Information: Prices vary based on cruise size and facilities.

 

Attraction 14: Fontainhas Lane

    • Location: In Panjim, the capital of Goa.
    • Significance: Known as Fountainhas Latin Quarters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Experience:
      • Famous for Portuguese architecture, colonial art, and ideal for photography.
      • Established by Antonio Joao in the 18th century.
    • Visiting Information: Open all day; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 15: Mayem Lake

    • Location: North Goa, 30 minutes from the capital.
    • Experience:
      • A peaceful, clean, and hidden gem surrounded by dense forests.
      • Activities include boating (₹200) and bungee jumping.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 8 AM to 7 PM; entry fee is ₹25.

 

Attraction 16: Aguada Fort

    • Location: 18 km from Panjim, North Goa.
    • History:
      • Built by the Portuguese from 1609-1612 to protect against Mandovi River attacks.
      • Converted into a prison and now a top tourist attraction.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 9:30 AM to 6 PM; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 17: Lower Aguada Fort

    • Location: Near Sinquerim Beach.
    • Significance:
      • Part of the Aguada Fort, mostly acquired by Taj Hotels.
      • Offers stunning sunset views.
    • Visiting Information: Open from 8:30 PM to 5:30 PM; no entry fee.

 

Attraction 18: Tito’s Lane

    • Location: Near Baga Beach, North Goa.
    • Experience:
      • The most happening street in Goa, famous for nightclubs, pubs, restaurants, and shopping.
      • Hosts the biggest flea markets: Anjuna Market (Wednesdays) and Saturday Market.
    • Visiting Information: A must-visit for nightlife and shopping enthusiasts.

 

Attraction 19: Chapora Fort

    • Location: 18 km north of Panjim, overlooking Morjim and Vagator Beach.
    • History: Built in the 17th century to oversee Hindu rulers, later captured by Chatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
    • Experience: Offers stunning panoramic views, perfect for photography.
    • Visiting Information: Open all day; no entry fee, best visited in the evening.

 

Attraction 20: Anjuna Beach

    • Location: 22 km north of Panjim, North Goa.
    • Experience:
      • Popular for nightlife, water sports, and flea markets.
      • Perfect for adventure enthusiasts and party-goers.
    • Visiting Information: Open 24 hours; no entry fee.

 

Conclusion:

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