Goa India: Top Tourist Places and Spots

Goa – a paradise for one and all. From being the best party place in a country to a place that boasts some of the most exotic beaches and other bounties of nature – Goa is the place to be in. The sandy beaches, the amalgamation of Portuguese and French architecture, the traditional Goan culture, the forts, the churches, the hospitality, the local cuisines, the local markets, etc. are the highlights of this wonderful place.
Whether you are traveling with your friends for your bachelorette or visiting Goa solo for some peace and tranquility, this place has many facets and you can surely explore the best of both the worlds. The hospitality of Goa, too, is admirable. The five-star hotels, private villas, hostels, etc. are the places where you can stay comfortable in all kinds of budgets. Goa is also famous for Sunburn- an annual music festival that gathers all the music maniacs under one roof.

Goa's numerous places and spots to visit

Beaches:

North Goa beaches 
Pernem Province
1. Querim Beach 2. Kalacha Beach 3. Arambol Beach 4.Mandrem Beach 5. Ashvem Beach 6. Morjim Beach
 
Bardez province
1. Chapora Beach 2. Vagator Beach 3. Ozran Beach 4. Anjuna Beach 5. Baga Beach 6.Calangute Beach 7. Candolim Beach 8. Sinquerim Beach 9. Coco Beach 10. Kegdole Beach

Tiswadi Province
1. Miramar Beach 2. Caranzalem Beach 3. Dona Paula Beach 4. Vaiguinim Beach 5. Bambolim Beach 6. Siridao Beach

Beaches in South Goa
Mormugao Province
1. Bogmalo Beach 2. Baina Beach 3. Hansa Beach 4. Hollant Beach 5. Cansaulim Beach 6. Velsao Beach

Salcete Province
1. Arossim Beach 2. Utorda Beach 3.Majorda Beach 4. Betalbatim Beach 5. Colva Beach 6. Sernabatim Beach 7. Benaulim Beach 8. Varca Beach 9. Cavelossim Beach 10. Mobor Beach 11. Betul Beach
 
Quepem Province
1. Canaiguinim Beach

Canacona Province
1. Cabo de rama Beach 2. Kakolem Beach 3. Dharvalem Beach 4. Cola Beach 5. Agonda Beach 6. Palolem Beach 7. Patnem Beach 8. Rajbag Beach 9. Talpona Beach 10. Galgibag Beach 11. Polem Beach

Wildlife:
1. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary 2. Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park 3. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary 4. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary 5. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary 6. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary 

Museums
There are several museums located in Goa: 

1. Goa State Museum for preserving Goan History and Culture. Located in Panaji.
2. Naval Aviation Museum near Dabolim
3. Goa Science Centre in Panaji for Science and Astronomy.
4. Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery in Old Goa 
5. Museum of Christian Art for centuries old paintings, sculptures and religious silverware dating back to the 16th century.
6. Ancestral Goa' in Loutolim.
7. Museum of Goa in Pilerne, for Goan history and culture through modern art.
8. Big Foot Cross Museum in Loutolim for collection of crosses, from all over the world.
9. Pilar Museum on the Pilar hillock now preserved in the seminary museum.[18]
10. Wax World Museum in Old Goa contains exquisite wax statues.
11. Goa Chitra, an ethnographic museum in Benaulim for traditional Goan farming implements and other Goan antiques.

 
Heritage Homes:
heritage homes are also big tourist attraction in Goa which were built in around 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule. Some palatial homes are now converted into hotels and  many are  with the people. Following are some popular heritage homes in Goa:

1. The Fernandes house, also known as 'Voddlem Ghor' in Cotta is an architectural marvel in Chandor.
2. The Menezes Bragança House in Chandor was built circa 1730. It was once owned by Luís de Menezes Bragança, Tristão de Bragança Cunha, Beatriz de Menezes Bragança, and her sister Berta Menezes Bragança.
3. The Vivian Coutinho House in Fatorda is among the few Goan houses with decorative Azulejo tiles.

Forts:
Out of several forts in Goa some main old forts are: 
1. Fort Tiracol 2. Fort Aguada 3.Chapora Fort

Best chosen places and spots

Visiting Goa means coming back with ample memories. There are a number of spots for tourist interest as above.  Out of above, the following are the best chosen places and top tourist spots of Goa state that are worth exploring:

Townships and nearby

Panjim

​Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
1874 Kms from New Delhi

Panjim is the capital city of Goa. Unlike the other capital cities, Panjim is all about peace and tranquility. As you start exploring this place, you will realize that many hidden gems are located in Panjim. The whole city has a Portuguese style setting. Thus, being a connoisseur of architecture, you are surely going to love the concrete structures, red roofs, promenades, as well as churches of Panjim. Land directly to the capital city as it boasts an international airport; rest in the best hotels as Panjim doesn’t disappoint you in terms of hospitality.
 
The best thing about this city is that it is a combination of liveliness and peace at the same time. Apart from exploring the Goan nightlife at the different clubs and restaurants, you can also explore the places of cultural importance in the city. Some of the most sought-after tourist attractions of Panjim include Basilica of Bom Jesus, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, and Goa State Museum. You can have a gala time with your family or friends at the Dona Paula Beach, Miramar Beach, Bambolim Beach, etc.

Mapusa 

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
15 Kms from Panjim (north)

Mapusa is located at a distance of 13 kilometers from Panjim. This place is a commercialized town but it also entertains a lot of attractions and spots for the tourists. This place has proximity to all the amazing Goa beaches and it also serves a transit center for all the tourists who are visiting north Goa. This is the same place that hosts the much sought-after Friday Market where all the shopaholics can shop their hearts out.
 
The Portuguese style setting of the architecture of Mapusa will enchant all the art-lovers. The historical monuments and forts will give you an insight into Goa history and culture. You can explore places such as Shree Dev Bodgeshwar Temple, Shri Kalika Temple, Church of Our Lady of Miracles, and others in Mapusa. The Friday Market lets you shop for everything under one roof.

Vasco De Gama

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
30 Kms from Panjim (south)

The cultural heritage of Vasco De Gama is going to fascinate any person who visits Goa to explore its culture and history in the first place. This place rests on the peninsular tip of the beautiful River Zuari. The natural harbors of this town provide peace and tranquility to all the tourists who want to explore the other side of Goa. There are many beautiful hidden treasures in Vasco De Gama that even a solo traveler would love to explore.
 
The closest airport to this town is Goa International Airport, located at a distance of 5 kilometers from Vasco De Gama. You can also reach here by rail or road, depending upon your preference. Bagmalo Beach is where you can relax your heart out, sunbathe, and eat local Goan cuisines to your heart’s content. Another place that you must visit while in Vasco De Gama is the Japanese Garden that is unperturbed by plastic waste. The stunning view of the Arabian Sea is where you can click several photos. The Naval Aviation Museum will give you information about the Naval arms and the evolution of air and naval forces.

Calangute

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
15 Kms from Panjim (north west)

Calangute is located at a distance of 15 kilometers from Panjim. This place has the largest beach in North Goa. Calangute Beach is where you can relax by the shack, sun-bathe, engage in different water sports, and taste some amazing local cuisines. This beach is referred to as the ‘Queen of the Beaches’. Thus, your attendance here should be a must. The nightlife of Calangute is another reason to visit this city. There are many clubs and pubs where you can drink like fish and dance like no one’s watching.
 
Calangute is a nature-friendly Goan town that is also known for hosting local Goan markets where you can shop for spices, coconut oil, cashews, as well as artifacts. Baga Beach is another famous beach that is located nearby. If you are not a beach person, you can visit the beautiful Fort Aguada. This light-house was constructed in the 17th century and it still holds an important place where you can learn about Goan history. Kerkar Art Complex is another place to visit for all art lovers.

Margao

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
35 Kms from Panjim (south)

Margao, also known as Madgaon, is the cultural hub of Goa. It is also touted as the commercial capital of Goa. This is a quiet city resting on the banks of River Sal. Margao is the oldest settlements of the Goa state. Before it was invaded by the Portuguese, this place happened to be the land with nine monastic endowments of the Hindus. Thus, it is evident that you will spot many temples when you explore this town.
 
Colva Beach is a famous beach of Margao which is mainly known for its white powdery sand. You can make the most of the many activities at this beach, including water sports. There are sea shacks, bars, restaurants, pubs, and everything else to entertain you throughout your time at Colva Beach. The Church of Holy Spirit is another tourist attraction of the place. Shri Damodar Temple is where you can seek blessings and find peace.

Spots

Dudhsagar Falls

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
76 Kms from Panjim (east)

Dudhsagar Falls is touted as one of the tallest waterfalls in the country. This tourist spot is situated inside the Mollem National Park. The location itself is very majestic and it is going to make you fall in love with the same. Dudhsagar Falls translates into the Sea of Milk. The height of this waterfall is 310 meters and it is divided into four tiers. If you see it from afar, it will appear like a rush of milk.
 
You can reach here by your private vehicle. You can also take a train journey to visit this majestic tourist spot. The popular Dudhsagar Railway track is located close to this area where you can participate in trekking as well. It is important to mention that this place remains closed during Monsoon.

Anjuna Beach 

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
21 Kms from Panjim (north west)

Anjuna beach is one of the most sought-after beaches in Goa. This beach is located at a distance of 21 kilometers from Panjim and stretches around 2 kilometers. This place is a paradise for hippies and is defined by its rocky structure. Apart from the beautiful view of the beach, many other activities can also be perceived here. You can make the most of the nightlife at Anjuna beach. This place also hosts amazing full-moon parties.
 
The beach shacks are where you can laze around throughout the day. If you cannot resist your adrenaline rush, you can participate in many water sports for a fun-filled experience. The flea market is where you can shop for different gifts and souvenirs for yourself and your family. Anjuna is a charming beach and you must not skip visiting the same.

Chapora Fort

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
24 Kms from Panjim (north west)

Located at a distance of 10 kilometers from Mapusa, Chapora Fort became famous after a scene from the movie Dil Chahta Hai has was shot here. This place has a long and charming history. This scintillating escape is where you can visit with your friends and click pictures in the signature style as depicted in the movie.
 
Chapora Fort oversees the beautiful Chapora river. Interestingly, it was built by a Muslim ruler called Adil Shah. Afterward, it was reconstructed by the Portuguese who renamed it Chapora after the river. You can visit the nearby Vagator beach after exploring this fort and spending some time. Reaching the top of this fort is a difficult 10-minute climb.

Butterfly Conservatory of Goa

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
28 Kms from Panjim (east)

This butterfly sanctuary and garden is located in the Goa district of Ponda, and spreads more than 4000 square meters in area. This is the best place to be in for all the nature-lovers as it offers a peaceful and soothing environment amidst the presence of colorful butterflies that will fill you with awe.
 
The Butterfly Pub is the major attraction of this place. It is a mud-puddling spot of the male species. This is where all the butterflies gather to absorb nutrients before they start mating with their partners. The Mystic Wood park in this area is well-maintained by all the nature-lovers where you can stroll around and explore the beautiful and enchanting bounties of nature.

Shri Mahadev Temple at Tambdi Surla

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
66 Kms from Panjim (east)

One of the oldest temples in Goa where you can seek blessings of Lord Shiva is the Shri Mahadeva Temple. This temple is situated in Tambdi Surla and holds a place of extreme importance for all the believers of Lord Shiva. This monument is beautifully constructed in basalt rocks. The carvings made on the walls of the temple are worth all the hype and admiration.
 
Apart from a Shiva Linga mounted on the raised pedestal, you will also find a headless statue of Nandi that is further flanked by four columns. Many tales and trivia make rounds around the locals regarding this temple. It is also believed that a gigantic King Cobra sits permanently near the Shiva Linga in this temple.

Church Of St. Augustine

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
10 Kms from Panjim (east)

Church of St. Augustine is another tourist spot that you must visit on your trip to Goa. This place is a ruined church complex. Once upon a time, it used to be the biggest church in the state. This place is located in Old Goa. Thus, you can also explore the beautiful architecture and the streets of Old Goa upon visiting this area.
 
The ruins are beautiful and tell you a lot about Goa history. The tower of this church is dilapidated but it still looks beautiful. This is the place where you can sit for hours if you have a good company in tow. Moreover, if you are a fiend of ruin sites and archaeology, you must visit this church for sure.

Savoi Spice Plantation

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
27 Kms from Panjim (east)

This 40-hectare organic farm is located at a distance of 15 kilometers from Ponda. It has been established by Mr. Shetye. Savoi Spice Plantation is a gorgeously-maintained farm that is flanked by a beautiful plantation of spices. Interestingly, this place is 200-years old and yet it retains its beauty, charm, and of course, the greenery.

You can take a guided tour of the intercrop plantation in this area to further relish upon some authentic Goan dishes at the Sadauli Restaurant. The best way to reach this beautiful and natural spot is by your private transport.

Reis Magos Fort

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
15 Kms from Panjim (north west)
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All the history fiends who want to dig deep into the history of Goa must visit the amazing Reis Magos fort. This fort is the oldest fort of Goa and rests on the banks of the River Bardez across the capital city. It was constructed in the 15th century by the Portuguese. The fort was a defense fortress that was later converted into a jail. Afterward, it was reconverted into a hospital. This place is a ruined fort set amidst the beautiful Goan scenery of waters and palm trees.
 
The fort was neglected initially and was finally restored and made open to the public in the year 2012. This fort has beautiful reddish walls that are visible from afar. Reis Magos Fort has been listed under the Goa Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains. This is the place that hosts displays, exhibitions, performances, festivals, and fairs regularly for all the locals as well as tourists. All these events are hosted to promote Goan culture.
 
Reis Magos Fort has four galleries namely, Art Gallery, Freedom Fighter’s Gallery, Gunloops, and History and Restoration Hall. The architecture of this place is a combination of Indian and Goan style. The gorgeous panoramic view offered by this tourist spot is treasured by one and all.

Arvalem Waterfalls

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
32 Kms from Panjim (east)

If you want to escape from the hustle-bustle and want to explore the real scenic beauty of Goa, Arvalem Waterfalls is the place to be in. This beautiful tourist spot is located in North Goa in Sanquelim. If you are staying in the capital city, the best route to reach this spot is from the Panjim Kadamba bus-station. The place forms a gigantic pool of water. On viewing, it appears as huge as a lake. This is one popular picnic spot among all the locals. The tourists, too, keep visiting here, especially during the Monsoon season.
 
A park has been developed by the government in the area along with protective railings. This has been done so that the tourists can get a better view of the falls without any danger or threat of falling into the waters. The aesthetic view of this place tempts you to click many pictures for your photo album or social media. The nearby Rudreshwar Temple is where you can offer prayers and seek blessings.

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary 

Nearest Airport - Goa International Airport
71 Kms from Panjim (south east)

If you are staying near the Goa-Karnataka border while vacationing in Goa, you must take out some time to visit the beautiful Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. This natural habitat rests in the Western Ghats of India and stretches in an area of 240 square kilometers. This place is considered as the largest wildlife reserve of Goa. Thus, if you are a wildlife enthusiast, you must visit this place for sure.
 
Apart from being a natural habitat of wildlife, this place is home to the Mollem National Park, Dudhsagar Galls, Tambdi Surla Temple, Devil’s Canyon, and various other tourist attractions that can be explored altogether. This tourist spot is where you can stumble upon a variety of flora and fauna. Any nature-lover would want to spend hours sitting and admiring the beauty that this place is surrounded with. 

Goan culture, tourist spots, nightlife, beaches, local markets, and everything else make it a perfect getaway that can be visited throughout the year. You don’t need a mood to visit Goa. Just pack your bags randomly and escape to this paradise for adventures, peace, party, relaxation, and tranquillity.