Goa is a small state divided into two parts-North Goa and South Goa. Both have unique cultural and geographical features that collectively make them one of the best places to spend a vacation with your near and dear ones.
Whether you are there on a honeymoon trip or you are traveling with your family. Or you go there with friends, the place delights you with its vibrancy and fun. There are so many Things to Do in Goa.
Panjim is the capital city, whereas Vasco Da Gama is the largest city.
The place is a favorite destination among tourists because of its pristine beaches. Its impressive coastline of more than 100 kilometers offers mesmerizing views and spectacular beauty.
History
Though it is quite a young Indian state as it was established in the year 1987, the history of this place dates back to prehistoric times.
Archeological evidence proves that there was a human settlement from Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods in this region. Mauryas and Satvahanas ruled the state and later it was under the rules of Kadamba, Vijaynagara, Bahmani, and Bijapur Sultanate rulers in the medieval period. Goa was invaded by the Portuguese by defeating the Bijapur Sultanate.
The Portuguese rule lasted for more than four centuries. Therefore, the people, culture, architecture, and art of Goa have the most influence of Portuguese culture.
Things to Do in Goa
From religion to nightlife, and adventure sports to wildlife; the spectrum is wide. When you plan a trip, make sure you have the following Things to Do in Goa.
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- You should go to ancient places and mansions. These buildings from the Portuguese era will impress you with their glory. A few of them are Fontainhas and Sao Tome, Fernandes House, and Braganza House.
- Enjoy the nightlife at some of the best clubs.
- Have the experience of a dining cruise on the Mandovi River and try your luck at the most exciting Casino Cruises. It is one of the exciting Things to do in Goa with family.
- Challenge your nerves by enjoying all types of water sports in Goa, e.g., jet skiing, banana boat, scuba diving, etc.
- Beach shacks and bustling pubs are the peculiar attractions in Goa. Almost all the famous beaches like Anjuna, Calangute, Arpora, and Ashwem offer them. Beach party is one of the thrilling Things to do in Goa with friends.
- On the Southern beaches like Palolem, Colva, and Majorda you can enjoy exotic beachside restaurants. You can have a candlelight dinner, one of the most romantic Things to do in Goa for couples.
- Explore the food in Goa. It has influence of Konkani and Portuguese cultures.
Places to Visit in North Goa
Chapora Fort
Chapora Fort has been featured in various blockbuster movies. It was built in 1717 and the fort has been a silent witness to many historical events. The fort stands above a hilltop near the Chapora river and offers a magnificent view of the surroundings.
Vagator Beach
It is one of the best beaches in Goa. You get amazed by the breathtaking view of the sea. The beach is split into two beaches, Big Vagator Beach and Small Vagator Beach. When you want to enjoy the perfect balance of sun, sand, and sea, you should go to Vagator. There are various options of adventure activities.
Anjuna Beach
A famous beach for silky white sand, spicy nightlife, and hair-raising water sports; Anjuna is a package of thrill and excitement. It is among the most admired beaches in North Goa. if you happened to be there on a Wednesday, then you get a chance to wander the flea market.
Fort Aguada
Located just on the seashore, this fort is worth visiting. This 17th-century fort brings a spectacular view of the sea. There is a lighthouse, which is one of the oldest of its kind in Asia.
Places to Visit in South Goa
Palolem Beach
It is a spectacular beach famous for golden sand and spellbinding scenic views. The beach market at Palolem every Saturday gives you a chance to experience the shopping culture Goa is famous for.
Agonda Beach
Agonda is a lesser-known beach, but the pristine shoreline of this beach is amazing. It is one of the four beaches marked as turtle nesting sites.
Benaulim Beach
This beach has been blessed with a captivating shoreline and gleaming white sand. You can enjoy a variety of water sports here. The nightlife is quite vibrant at this beach. It is a must-visit place if you book goa honeymoon packages from Mumbai.
Colva Beach
When you wish to spend a grand time on the beach, Colva is a hot favorite. There are many water-based activities for adventure seekers. The beach also offers a great opportunity for sunbathing and swimming.
Our Lady of Remedios Church, South Goa
The church is an ancient place of worship. Its origin is in 1630. The white exterior of the church is simple yet impressive. Its splendid architecture and serene ambiance get more delightful at night when the whole is illuminated.
Places to Visit near Goa
Though there are a lot many Things to Do in Goa, you can go to several places nearby Goa also. When you spend a vacation there, it is important to include these dimensions as well. For example, Chorla Ghat Waterfalls is a good sight around 60 kilometers from Panjim. It is possible to go there and come back in a day. If you want to enjoy a ferry ride along with a visit to a beautiful island, then go to Kurumgad. You can include these places in the itinerary while booking goa tour packages from Mumbai.
How to Plan a Trip to Goa
Goa is well-connected to India and the world. You can go there by railway, airway, or by road. Margao and Vasco Da Gama are two major railway junctions. It is connected to all big cities like Pune, Mumbai, Belgaum, Mangalore, etc. by road. There are hundreds of state-owned and private buses that run frequently to and from these places. As far as the airway is concerned, Dabolim International Airport, which is around 28 kilometers from Panjim has daily flights from and to all big cities.