Goa is a state with a rich history that stems from both its Portuguese colonization and its Indian background. The ancient churches and tropical spice plantations bear evidence of their colonial past. But the state’s booming tourism sector is fueled by all of these elements as well as the idyllic beaches, vibrant local markets, historic temples, mouthwatering seafood, and exciting nightlife. Every Indian has at least once in their life fantasized about visiting Goa, so if you’re one of them, join us on this adventure as we explore the top 40 locations to see in Goa, choose the ones that catch your eye, and add them to your bucket list! Experience the mesmerizing feel with the Grand Hyatt Goa.
Table of Contents
Beach Baga
Without a doubt, Baga Beach is among the nicest and most well-liked tourist destinations in Goa. One of Goa’s busiest beaches, if not the busiest, is Baga. It offers a wide variety of opportunities for travelers to enjoy the finest experience, from thrilling water sports to delicious food and fashionable shops. The beach’s late-night celebrations and parties, though, are what set it apart and keep everyone on their toes. As “the hometown of nightlife,” Baga is known for having some of the best clubs in the area and is the best beach to experience authentic Goan nightlife.
Goa’s Calangute Beach
Calangute Beach is the next choice for the best places to visit in Goa. Calangute, known as the “Queen of Beaches,” is one of Goa’s busiest beaches, and for good reason. The beach is a tourist treat in every way since it is lined with coconut and palm trees. The beach offers a wide range of activities to keep you entertained all day without getting tired, including water sports, lively local markets like the Tibetan market, happening bars, and lovely restaurants. Also, Calangute is the ideal location to be if you want to experience the vibrant nightlife.
Goa’s Sunburn Festival
The annual Sunburn Festival is something you should look forward to if you’re in Goa in December. The most popular DJs from across the world perform at this EDM festival, which is crowded with young people from all around India and the rest of the world. Three days of the event are spent with attendees losing themselves in the music’s beats and having the time of their lives among a fun-loving audience of the top EDM performers. It is held at Vagator every year and has grown to be the beach’s primary draw and most popular event.
Goa’s Anjuna Beach
Anjuna Beach is another well-known name for a beach in Goa. The beach, which stretches over a distance of 2 kilometers, is both visually appealing and enjoyable for tourists. The beach is perfect for a fun, family vacation since it offers a variety of water sports activities, eateries, and beautiful vistas. The Wednesday Flea Market by the seaside is particularly well-known. Anjuna is home to some of Goa’s top nightclubs for travelers looking for more than just the usual meaning of “fun activities”!
Aguada Fort
The Aguada Fort, a landmark from the 17th century that stands at the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea, gets its name from the Portuguese word “Agua,” which means “water.” The fort was extremely important to the Portuguese because it had been constructed as a defense against the Marathas and the Dutch. Additionally, the fort has a history of serving as a prison! The fort is now a well-known tourist destination, and its four-story lighthouse and stunning sunset views are its highlights.
Basilica of Jesus
San Francisco Xavier’s mortal bones are kept at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, one of history’s most recognizable historic wonders and a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. The Basilica is one of the oldest and most well-known churches in Goa, having been built in the 16th century. The church, which displays the splendor of Baroque design, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of Portuguese Origin in the world.
Castle Fort
The fort, which towers over the river Chapora and was formerly known as Shahpura, was constructed by Adil Shah. Today, the abandoned fort is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Goa, notably as a result of the success of the film “Dil Chahta Hai.” It can be difficult to get to the fort, which is a good ten minutes of climbing away. However, the fort’s major draw is the breathtaking view it provides of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding Vagator Beach, particularly after sunset.
Temple of Shri Saptakoteshwar
Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple is a spiritual addition to our list of Goa’s tourist attractions. It is one of Goa’s oldest and most revered Hindu temples. The name of the temple is derived from Saptakoteshwar, a form of Lord Shiva that means “Lord of Seven Crores.” Gokulashtami, a festival commemorating the day Lord Shiva took the form of Saptkoteshwar, draws particular attention to the temple. It is the most significant celebration for followers from all over Goa and other Indian states.
Flea market in Anjuna
The Anjuna Flea Market, which is open every Wednesday, is a location well worth visiting for anyone looking to experience authentic Goa, but especially for shoppers. Everything from hippy clothing and handicrafts to fashionable jewelry, footwear, and other items may be found in the market. The market is the ideal location to experience the warmth and energy of interpersonal interactions while shopping your heart out. It features specialties from every state in India along with living music and performances, delicious seafood, and countless small stalls.
Conclusion
There are many places to visit in Goa, from well-known beaches to hidden gems, but visiting each one of them wouldn’t be the only justification for our selection of 40 must-see locations. Each of these places has the importance of its own and adds to the diversity and appeal of the state in a certain manner. Experience the mesmerizing feel with the Grand Hyatt Goa.Therefore, get your group together, pack your bags, purchase your tickets, reserve a hotel in Goa, and last but not least, don’t forget to bring your covid vaccination certificate with you if nothing is stopping you from soaking up the history and climate of Goa and enjoying a taste of the true Goan goodness.