Goa is one of the tourist hotspots in India, located in the western coast and very near to Mumbai, Maharashtra. It's a tropical paradise that boasts of having crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches in gorgeous stretches with lush palm trees. It is also popular for its rich cultural heritage and history. Since there are plenty of activities to indulge in by people of all ages, this place is on the top of the must visit tourist spots in the country at any time of the year, by locals and tourists alike.
Here are the best things to indulge in during the trip:
- Saturday Night Market, Ingo: This Saturday night market is indeed a great treat for travellers, who would like to have something authentic and colourful. This bazaar has lots of items meant for all ages and preferences. You can find here locals, domestic and foreign travellers bargaining to get a better rate for the selected item or enjoying themselves Goa’s vibrant culture. You can buy souvenirs, visit a bar, enjoy live music or simply visit one of the food stalls to try out different types of dishes and snacks offered. This market remains open until 12 midnight. Check out for Goan souvenirs that can be a wonderful memory. It is located at Verla, Anjuna Road, Arpora.
- Basilica of Bom Jesus: This basilica is a wonderful spot to those who prefer to check out the intricate design and architecture of the place. Bom Jesus stands for Holy or Good Jesus. This basilica is popular for its unique Baroque architecture and is among the finest examples for Baroque detailing. Being over 400 years old it has also managed to enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the premises is a glass coffin that holds St. Francis Xavier’s remains. You can get to have a glimpse of baroque architectural style. It is located at Bainguinum, Old Goa Road and is open from 9am to 6:30pm.
- Goa Diving: This school is meant for those who are adventurous at heart and eager to try something new and interesting. It is also regarded to be the country’s very first institution to provide students with Scuba Diving Certification (PADI certificates). It trains diving enthusiasts with scuba diving art. Water sports are undoubtedly among the most sought activities in Goa, because of its beautiful, mesmerizing beaches. You are sure to have an amazing seaside experience. Go Diving boasts of having 25+ years of rich experience of providing training to both experienced and beginner divers. You can avail beginner courses here. Located at Bogmalo Road, Bimtan, Chiconia Vasco da Gama, Bogmalo Beach, it is open from 7am to 4pm.
- Big Foot: Close to heart of Lotoliu, this place is considered to be a treasure house for valuable items and artifacts, sculptures and past stories, deeply rooted in Goa’s tradition and culture. Its objective is to preserve ethnicity of Goan beliefs and lifestyle through art. It helps local artisans to gather here to create as well as exhibit their talent. You can also find sculptures in the house, of which the longest sculpture to be listed in the Limca Records Book is St Mirabai sculpture. You can also find other sculptures which depict Goan people’s ancient customs and tradition. You should check out the Souvenir Room. Located near Loutolim, Saviour of World Church, it is open from 9am to 5:30pm.
- Menezes Braganza Pereira House: Apart from parties and beaches you can also indulge in other sightseeing activities. This area does boast of having a rich colonial history, with Braganza House being a stunning story book that narrates about Portuguese colonial rule in this place. it is a 2 storied house, which when looked from the street appears inviting and fascinating due to its vintage style and faded walls. Presently, this place is home to amazing collection of unique furniture and antique items collected from all over the world. Do not miss private chapel in the house. It is located at Chandor, Cuisabhatt and is open from 10am – 6pm.
- Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary: If you want to spend some quality time with nature, then this wildlife sanctuary is a wonderful place to be. It features elephants, leopards, Indian bison and deer, etc. The objective of this sanctuary is to preserve the species from getting extinct. It is also stated to be a paradise for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers as you can get to see different types of exotic birds flocking here. To explore this park, you need to arrange a private jeep. Located at Caranzol, NH 4A, this sanctuary is open from 9am – 6pm.
- Naval Aviation Museum: It is among the two military museums established in the country and the other being in New Delhi. You can find here evolution of Indian Naval Army at this museum right from independence. There are on display naval aircrafts like Sea Harrier and Sea Hawk, including ammunition and missiles. This museum is an interesting place for aircraft enthusiasts and history buffs. It is open from 9:30 am to 5pm.
- Tropical Spice Plantation: The staffs here are known to preserve their land’s rich tradition and welcome guests by applying kumkum on the foreheads and garland of flowers on their neck. The Spice Plantation takes about 45 minutes to explore. Visitors can avail elephant ride or give it a bath, have delicious, hot lunch buffet served in banana leaf. This place does offer better and in-depth introspection of Goan culture and heritage. It is located at Ponda, Arla Bazar Keria and is open from 10am to 6pm.
- Viva Panjim: It is a popular restaurant that is easily recognizable due to its blood coloured, dark walls and wooden, wrap-around charming balcony. This traditional side street joint is famous all over Goa although it is a very small one. it does serve mouth-watering, delicious, home styled food that is not only budget friendly, but also its charming location combined with intimate outdoor seating is what makes it special and inviting. You can gorge delightfully classic Goan dishes. You should definitely taste fresh fish Vindaloo that is specially prepared here. It is located at Altinho, Panjim.
The best luxury hotels in north Goa are close to the main tourist spots and you should book your accommodation here.
