Best places to visit in Goa

Goa

Goa is one of the states in India situated on the western coast, consisting of two parts – North Goa and South Goa, and it is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich culture and heritage along with buildings of colonial style architecture.

It is a well-known tourist site, particularly for fun, activities such as night binging, water sports, and unique delicious sea foods. In addition, Goa has a long history of colonial domination by several dynasties, making it a historical site. Goa also hosts a variety of music fests including the globally famed Sunburn Festival, an event based on electronic music.

North Goa 

In the state of Goa, there are two regions, one more dynamic and tourist-oriented – North Goa is famous for energizing beaches, noisy markets, and vibrant nightlife.

North Goa consists of some famous beaches of Goa, including Vagator, Anjuna, Baga, and Calangute. While there are several beach-joined shacks and clubs to party at Baga Beach, Calangute Beach boasts of its long strip sand and strong water sports presence.

On the other hand, Anjuna Beach is famous for being quieter and has a special market for accessories.

There are many colorful and eagerly selling markets in North Goa where one can buy dress materials, ornaments, toys, spices, ornaments and souvenirs, etc.

Anjuna Flea Market is one of the most famous flea markets in the area where it operates every Wednesday, particularly selling items such as clothes, jewelry, trinkets, accessories, knick-knacks, artworks, and many more.

One of the other famous localities, which is most famous for its food, shopping, and entertainment destination is Saturday Night Market in Arpora.

Tourist activities in North Goa spotting opportunities in water sports which include parasailing, water skiing, banana boat ride lessons, and windsurfing among others. These operators are easily available and easily approachable to tourists mostly available at Baga and Calangute beaches of Goa.

While it is true that visitors flock to North Goa to enjoy its beautiful beaches and nightlife, there are quite impressive monuments to watch here. There are plenty of beaches and night attractions that make North Goa famous, but there are also monuments that are worth a visit.

The Aguada Fort situated on the coast of the Arabian Sea with a beautiful view across the sea also gives tourists an understanding of Goa’s colonies period. Other historical artifacts located near Vagator Beach though not as eye-popping as the later, Chapora Fort is another place commanding a panoramic view of the coastline.

Depending on the preferences and pocket, there are numerous restaurants and other eateries in North Goa ranging from restaurants providing international food to coastal eateries selling seafood. Besides various other Indian as well as Continental dishes, gourmet Goan recipes that can be sampled by guests include vindaloo, fish curry, and prawn.

Taking into account the above details, North Goa is an interesting and vibrant place that has a lot to offer to different categories of tourists: adventurers and water sports lovers, Those who like calm beach holidays, and tourists attracted by the hot nightclubs.

The variety of different nightclubs which are located in North Goa presents many internationally renowned clubs for clubbers. The first one is Tito’s which is probably one of the most famous clubs in Baga due to the energetic people dancing and the quality of the music.

As described by many, Club Cubana is one of the most popular nightclubs akin to the commercialized ‘club in the sky’ with an open-air dancing area situated in the middle of a hill. Conned with the town’s known tourist attractions, LPK Waterfront located in Nerul, and SinQ Beach Club in Candolim are two other preferred clubs.

There is a great number of outstanding places with live performances in North Goa especially for those who are interested in indie electronic music. People go to various clubs and restaurants just to watch the live performances; they prefer jazz and blues, rock, or reggae.

Thus, despite Curlies in Anjuna looking like a small cafe, which is made of wooden planks, it is extremely popular because of live music, the view of the beach, and the relaxed atmosphere.

To rock the night; you can opt to rent a boat for cruising at sea or in the Chapora River.

When all the people are feeling the rhythm and enjoying themselves to the maximum, all that one may feel is the urge to get hungry. Luckily, North Goa is saturated with numerous dining establishments that are available late at night to serve continental Goan cuisine. No matter the time, let’s say it is 4 in the morning you are out dancing, if there is a restaurant, then there is food.

South Goa 

In overall ambiance, South Goa is comparatively more laid back than North Goa. The coastline of South Goa is considered to be clean and somewhat less tourist-oriented compared to some areas of North Goa. Some of the popular beaches include Palolem beach which is one of the most famous beaches in south India, famous for its natural beauty and semi-circular bay.

Some of the even more relaxed beaches that you can visit and enjoy the beauty of are Agonda Beach, Patnem Beach, and Colva Beach.

For those travelers who prefer a quiet place in contrast to crowded spaces, it is recommended to visit South Goa. There are great luxury resorts, small boutiques, and beautiful beach cottages where one can relax in the tranquil environment and hear the whispering of the sea. It is therefore favorable for anyone who wants to take a break and have some time to enjoy.

South Goa has a historical background and an interesting cultural heritage. For the historical site-seeker, the Bom Jesus Basilica in Old Goa and that too the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier in the same basilica are a must-visit place.

The remaining historical attractions are the Rachol Seminary, The Church of St. Cajetan, and the Se Cathedral which also testify to the old colonial architecture of the region.

But contrary to its name, there is much to see and do in terms of places and adventures in the area and the District of South Goa. Some of the things that visitors engage in include cruises on the Sal River, a boat ride through the mangroves, and watching the dolphins.

One can glimpse at the rich offering of fauna and wildlife in the region at the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary which also has trekking through the forest and bird watching.

Similar to every other aspect of lifestyle, eating out in South Goa offers a mixed bag ranging from expensive eateries to the basic shack by the beach. You could relish International & seafood cuisine, & Goan delicacies in simple settings with sea-facing rooms.

Seeing the big sunsets over the sea in the South part of Goa is a nice part of a visit there. Looking at the sky turn pink and orange while on a sunset boat or just resting on the beach is a special time that shows the calm of South Goa.

So, all in all, South Goa has a mix of pretty views, nature, and old things, making it a good place for those who want a calm trip. All sorts of people can find something fun to do in South Goa, like seeing old places, resting on quiet beaches, or eating good food. South Goa has something to offer for everyone.