Top 10 popular places to visit in Goa
Goa is a small state on India’s west coast. It was once a Portuguese colony and has a rich history. Covering about 3,700 km² and home to around 1.4 million people, it is one of the smaller states of India.Goa is one of India’s smallest states. It is bordered by Maharashtra in the north, Karnataka in the east and south, and the Arabian Sea in the west.
Culungute Beach
Baga Beach
Baga Beach is one of the most lively beaches in Goa, known for its water sports, fine dining restaurants, bars, and clubs. Located in North Goa, it lies between Calangute Beach and Anjuna Beach. This beach is bordered by Calangute Beach to its south and Anjuna Beach to its north. Baga Beach starts right where Calangute ends. Baga is also known for its vibrant nightlife, and the famous Tito’s Lane is home to some of the best bars and clubs in Goa. So, don’t miss this place to going if you going to Goa
Known for : jet skiing, banana boat ride, Scuba diving, motor boat ride dolphin rides as well as Ayurvedic Spa
Location : North Goa
Dudhsagar waterfall
Dudhsagar Falls of Goa is a majestic waterfall where the white water gushing through the steep and vertical face of the mountain portrays a cascading effect. Standing as tall as 310 metres, it makes sure to stand in the list of tallest waterfalls in India.The waterfall looks like a milky white sea falling from a great height, and that is why it is called Dudhsagar Falls. Moreover, this four-tiered waterfall flows along the Mandovi River in the Sanguem taluka of Goa. So, must visit this place if you going to Goa…
Known for :
- The gushing white water, splash of water hitting the rocks and the cool breeze make for a rejuvenating experience for body and mind.</li>
- Dudhsagar waterfall is a wondrous sight of natural beauty bestowed by mother nature
Shri Bhagvati tample
Bhagwati Devi Mandir is about 7 kilometers from Pernem. Moreover, it is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati and the consort of Lord Shiva. It is believed that the Bhagawati Devi Mandir is more than 500 years old. Tourists from all over come here to pay a visit, especially during festivals and events.
Known for : Boating, birds watching, peddle boating, shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs
Chapora fort
Chapora Fort is famously called Dil Chahta Hai Fort. Built in red laterite stones, the fort has steep slopes on all the sides and stands on an area which has irregular outer plan. This massive fort was constructed by the king of Bijapur, Adil Shah. this fort was built with the motive to keep a check on the various Hindu rulers during the 17th century.
Known for : Nature lovers, adventure seekers
Location : Vagator Beach, Goa
St Francis Of Assisi In Goa
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, together with a convent, situated in the main square of Old Goa is stated as a world heritage site by UNESCO. The history of this Roman Catholic church and convent begins in 1517, when eight Franciscan friars arrived. They got a few houses from the Governor and later turned them into a small chapel with three altars and a choir.
Cabo fort
Fort Cabo de Rama is believed to have a religious link. Its name comes from the Indian epic Ramayana. According to legend, Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshman stayed here during their 14 years of exile. It imparts an ancient historic feel to the visitors. It was once under the Indian rule followed by the rule of the Portuguese.
Known for : Church inside the fort, great north and south sea view
Location : Canacona, South Goa
Arvalem waterfalls
Harvalem Waterfall is a peaceful and beautiful spot, especially during the monsoon on Goa’s southwestern coast. Moreover, it is located near the towns of Bicholim and Sequelim in North Goa. Arvalem waterfall is a result of Cudnem river diving off a 50 meters cliff. The mouth of the gorge at the waterfall is about 7 meters wide.During the rainy season and just after it, the roar of Arvalem Waterfall can be heard from half a kilometer away.
Known for : Swimming
Location : 9 km south from the town of Bicholim
Reis Mogos Fort
The Reis Magos Fort stands on the north bank of the Mandovi River, and it is clearly visible from Panjim.Moreover, Alfonso de Noronha, the Portuguese Viceroy, built it in 1551. Later, in 1707, the fort was reconstructed and expanded. Therefore, this stunning fort stands as a reminder of the colonial past and is also one of the best places to visit in Old Goa.
Known for : Portuguese architecture, scenic views of the Mandovi River, and its role in Goa’s history.
Corjuem Fort
Fort Assunção, also called Corjuem Fort, is one of the smaller forts in Goa. Moreover, it is located about 4 km from the village of Aldona, on the river island of Corjuem. This fort is surrounded on all sides by exceptionally beautiful swathes of Goan countryside, and as such is a great place for a scenic walk or a little photography.
Known for : strategic location, panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and its unique status as one of the only inland forts in Goa.
Location : Khorujuven, Aldona, Goa 403508
How to reach Goa
By air :
Goa is well connected to major Indian cities by air. Moreover, all national and international flights operate from Goa Airport at Dabolim, near Vasco-da-Gama. The airport, owned by the Indian Navy, is about 30 km from the capital city, Panaji.
By Train :
the high-speed Konkan Railway runs a daily train that takes only about 8–9 hours for the journey. Other trains between Mumbai and Panaji usually take around 10–12 hours. The rail route also connects Mumbai to northern cities like Delhi and to southern cities like Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.
By Road :
You can reach Goa by road through national highways that connect it to nearby states. Buses, cars, and taxis regularly travel from cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore. The journey offers smooth highways and scenic views, making road travel a popular option.