Goa - It grows on you instantly!
Goa, often called the “Party Capital” of India, is a beautiful territory located in the southwestern coast of India. The place is popular for its exotic beaches, Portuguese connection, food, and vibrant festivals.
Apart from its fantastic beaches washed by the rolling waves of the Arabian sea, its carefree hippie culture makes it one of the happiest travel destinations for tourists from India as well as all across the globe. Goa has something to offer to every person of every taste from every walk of life.
Confused to Visit North Goa or South Goa?
North Goa
If you are looking for happening nightlife, high-octane parties with blaring foot-tapping music and an urbane lifestyle, then North Goa suits your needs perfectly. Beaches like Calangute and Baga are among the most popular spots in North Goa. It is the Old Goa settlement known for its connection with the Portuguese establishments. The Baroque Architecture in the Churches and heritage homes in the area will entice you with their history and rich culture.
South Goa
On the other hand, South Goa has a much-relaxed vibe, and it is closer to the Goan culture and original Goan lifestyle. Unlike North Goa, it is not swarming with party-goers. This region is less commercialized, you will not find upscale shopping-malls etc. here. But if you want to simply relax and soak up the sun, Palolem, Colva and Cavelossim beaches of South Goa are paradise on earth.
North Goa and South Goa are entirely different from each other and if you want to delve into the true essence of Goan culture, make sure to visit both. First spend three days in the North, book accommodation close to the Baga or Calangute Beach. Visit Dona Paula, Miramar and Fort Aguada along with the churches in Old Goa. Enjoy the casinos and the nightlife in the evenings. Then travel to South Goa, and spend some time relaxing on the beach. Make sure you visit Mangeshi Temple, Santa Durga Temple, and the Colva Beach.
Why visit Goa?
The beaches!
For those who want to enjoy the young, happening and electrifying lifestyle with some fantastic water sports, North Goa beaches like Anjuna, Arambol, Baga and Vagator are among the top choices. For families, children, and those who are looking for a silent and calm place to relax, there is no better place than Agonda and Palolem beaches in South Goa.
The dominating Portuguese Connection
Portuguese Connection with Goa dates back to 1510 when they first set it up as an essential port for the spice trade. Their influence on the culture is prevalent till date, and you will find a lot of heritage buildings that will offer you with notable insight into how life was back then. For someone interested in learning about Indian history and the influence of other cultures, Goa gives an unmatched opportunity.
The glorious markets
Anjuna market that unfurls behind Anjuna beach every Wednesday can take your breath away, especially if you like shopping. You will find snake charmers, performers, hippies, Kashmiri salesmen and much more in the market to explore. It provides a delightful experience for both shoppers and onlookers.
Goan food
Xacuti, Balchao and Vindaloo are few names that you cannot miss to try. With a hint of Portuguese influence, the Goan cuisine is a rollercoaster ride for the foodies. A beer with some spicy Goan curry is all you need to delight your tastebuds and the gourmet inside you happy and content.
How to reach Goa?
Goa is well connected to the rest of the world with road, air and railway.
By Air: Dabolim airport is located 26 KM away from Panaji, and you can easily get a cab to reach your destination from there. All major carriers including Air India, AirAsia, Spicejet, Indigo have regular flights to Goa from the rest of the country.
By Road: Kerala Transport Corporation (KTC), Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) are among the most famous bus services available for Goa. You can take buses from Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore.
By Train: The most convenient way to reach Goa is by Train. Vasco da Gama and Madgaon are two most popular stations. Goa Sampark Kranti Express and Trivandrum Express are the most prominent trains to Madgaon, which is approx 38 KMs away from Panjim.
When to visit Goa?
The best months to visit Goa are Mid-November to Mid-February as the weather is pleasant at this time. In these three months Goa witnesses some of the best international festivals like Sunburn, Christmas celebrations and many more.
During March and May, the weather is harsh. Mid-June to October Goa receives a fair amount of rainfall and gives a mystic appeal to the beaches.
Where to visit in Goa?
Calangute: It is one of the most famous beaches in North Goa popular among both domestic and international tourists. It is best known for clubs, shopping outlets and more.
Fort Aguada: A well-preserved 17th-century Portuguese fort, it was the chief defence against Marathas and Dutch. A lighthouse that was built in 1864 and a vaulted cistern that can hold millions of litres of water are two of the main attractions in the fort.
Deltin Royale Casino:It is the largest casino boat in Panjim that offers 24-hours of nonstop fun. You can enjoy live entertainment on the restaurant floor.
Chapora Fort: Though the fort is more of a ruin, but it does give fantastic scenic views during sunrise and sunset and Instagram-worthy photo-ops as well.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Upholding the religious legacy of Goa, this church is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Pandava Caves and Arvalem Waterfall: Dating back to Mahabharata era, these caves bear mythological significance.
Tips for travelers:
Do not limit your time just for the beaches. There is a lot to explore in Goa and if you are going there for 2-3 days, make sure to diversify your plan to visit different locations.
The cities in Goa have a lot to offer. It is preferred that you hire a guide if you are visiting for the first time so that you do not miss the main attractions. Also, if possible, try hiring a two-wheeler or four-wheeler to explore Goa, it will give you a whole new perspective about the state.
Make sure you do not miss a chance to try out some water sports while in the state.
The weather of Goa is pleasant overall throughout the year, but the peak tourist season happens to be mid-November to mid-February.
You can wear loose and comfortable clothes, people of Goa are very liberal. Make sure to carry sun protection with you,though.
IF you are coming from a foreign country, you can exchange money at the airport, exchange centers or in banks.
Final words
Goa is the party capital of India, and it is famous for beaches, casinos, Goan food and culture. Its beaches and Portuguese connection makes it one of the most extraordinary tourist places in India. Popular among domestic and international tourists equally, the happening life of North Goa and relaxed surroundings of South Goa are more than enough to make you fall in love with it instantly. Book your Goa trip today to have the best time of your life and you can find many internationally famed festivals happening in the state.