GO GOA - THE BEACH IS CALLING…

Goa is a state located on the western coast of india. The coastline of goa is far stretched beside the Arabian sea. The state has been a very important historical and cultural centre since ancient times. In a Hindu scripture Mahabharata it is referred as Gopakpattan or Gomant and in Sutra- Samhita it was mentioned as Govapuri. Located on India’s West coast, Goa is a former Portuguese colony with prolific history.

One of the most visited tourist destinations in India is Goa, which has plenty to offer to all travelers visiting from across the world. Goa Tourism is proud to promote its beaches, national parks and hills, churches, forts, markets, backwaters, and much more. The state is not very diverse and the majority numbers of people are Christians so there are hundreds of churches present in Goa. The well-known destination is also famous for water sports like Jet skiing, kite surfing, parasailing, water boating, and more.

Perfect vocation trip for all

It is honeymoon vocation for newly wed couples, a relaxing family vacation, a vacation with friends, chilling out on the beautiful sandy beaches under the pleasant sun, visiting the old and heritage sites, go for an evening cruise — glittery, crowded and noisy.

Guidelines for Tourists for visiting Goa

All tourists visiting the state, irrespective of their vaccination status, will need to produce mandatory RT-PCR negative report within 72 hours of testing.

Pre – booking of accommodation has been made mandatory to vacate in goa.

COVID-19 alert: Travel requirements are changing rapidly, including need for pre-travel COVID-19 testing and quarantine on arrival.

HOW TO REACH

BY AIR

Dabolim Airport, approximately 26 km away from Panaji (capital city of Goa), is the main domestic as well as international aerodrome. This airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 is the domestic terminal and Terminal 2 is the international terminal. All major domestic carriers including AirAsia India, Air India, GoAir, IndiGo, Jet Airways and SpiceJet have regular flights from Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Kolkata, Indore, Chennai and Pune, among others. Serving international destinations such as Muscat, Doha and Copenhagen are the airlines such as Novair, Qatar Airways and Oman Air, to name a few. Travellers can hire taxis from outside the airport to reach anywhere in Goa.

BY ROAD

Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and KTC are some of the prime operators providing bus services from nearby cities such as Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore. Besides, those driving to Goa from Bangalore and Mumbai can take NH 4 route, which is extremely smooth and well maintained while those coming from Mangalore can steer their wheels through NH 17.

BY TRAIN

Reaching Goa by train is quite convenient as there are two main railheads serving the state, namely Vasco da Gama and Madgaon. These two railway stations are extremely well linked to other parts of the country via an extensive train network. There are regular trains from Delhi for Madgaon, where Goa Sampark Kranti Express and Trivandrum Express are the most prominent ones. While Madgaon railway station is about 38 km away from Panji, Vasco da Gama railway is approximately 29 km away. Travellers can avail of taxi services from outside the railway stations.

GOA BY SEA

For all the water babies out there, cruise ships coming from the UAE and travelling between Mumbai and Maldives are available. However, if you are travelling from Mumbai and want to stay amidst the water for a while, a new cruise ferry service functioning between Mumbai and Goa will be there at your beck and call. Known as Angriya Cruises, this is a one-day journey reputed to be an overnight pleasure. It comprises two restaurants, a spa and an infinity pool. The ship sets sail from Mumbai’s Victoria Docks at 4pm every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and reaches Goa’s Mormugao cruise terminal at nine in the morning the following day.

TIP: The service functions from October to May and online bookings open one month in advance. Hence, make sure that you book your tickets well before time.

INTER CONNECTIVITY WITHIN GOA

BY BOATS

Make use of the few remaining passenger or vehicle ferries which were once a widely used transport by the locals. These ferries run from seven in the morning to nine in the night with an interval of thirty minutes. Pedestrians have free access to these ferries. If you wish to head to North Goa, you can hop on to the Panaji to Betim ferry that will take you to the northern beaches.

BY BUSES

A vast network of buses travel to and from every village and town in Goa. However, the central pick up or drop-off points are located in Panaji, Margao and Mapusa. If you plan to travel between North and South Goa, you will have to change buses at either Margao or Panaji.

BY CARS

If you would rather holiday at your own pace and take your own sweet time to gallivant around Goa, we suggest you hire a car. You could go for a self-drive hire car.

BY MOTORCYCLES

Talking about motorcycles, we are sure you will spot tourists whizzing by you on a scooter or a motorcycle. You can do the same by hiring a motorcycle.

BY AUTORICKSHAWS

This is also a good way to travel around Goa. It is also cheaper than a taxi and suitable for short trips.

BEST TIME TO VISIT GOA

Winter Season in Goa

Winter season is from November to February and is the best time to plan a visit to Goa.

Summer Season in Goa

The summer season between March and June in Goa is quite hot with temperature.

Monsoon Season in Goa

Monsoon in Goa is between July and August. Goa receives medium to high rainfall leaving beaches closed but the state greener.

POPULAR PLACES TO GO IN GOA

BEACHES

Beaches in Goa are its highlight and people from all around the country come here to spend the time of their lives and unwind themselves at the beaches.

Best Beaches in North Goa

· Baga Beach

· Anjuna Beach

· Calangute Beach

· Candolim Beach

· Arambol Beach

· Sinquerim Beach

· Vagator Beach

Best Beaches in South Goa

· Palolem Beach

· Agonda Beach

· Colva Beach

· Benaulim Beach

· Butterfly Beach

BAGA BEACH FOR BANANA BOAT RIDE

Baga Beach is the centre of tourist attraction in Goa. Majestic white waves rushing to wipe out the feet imprints left by you on the white sand while the wind continues to flirt with the palm trees. Amongst all the activities, parasailing, banana boat rides and sun-basking are highly enjoyed at this beach.

Beach side shacks and cafes which serve you with delectable Goan delicacies and music to soothe your senses. One could indulge in artificial tattoos & braids too.

ANJUNA BEACH (FULL MOON PARTIES)

One of the most popular tourist place FOs in Goa – the world renowned freak capital of the world – Anjuna beach is known for its full-moon (acid house) parties, trance Parties and the hippies who tried to synthesize the spiritual traditions of the East and the art, ideas and the music of the West.

The beach is known for full moon parties.

CALANGUTE BEACH FOR PARASAING

Calangute beach is also known as the Queen of beaches. Bringing hordes of European tourist calangute beach is the haven for hippies. You can also have you full of adventure with parasailing, water-skiing, wind-surfing and dolphin trips. It is one of the best places to visit in Goa in 2 days, especially if you’re travelling with friends, alone or with your partner.

With a mind-blowing nightlife, bustling flea markets and generous contributions of history, you can let your spirits scale high on the sky of experience.

CANDOLIM BEACH FOR WAKEBOARDING

Candolim Nightlife is something that you should not miss during your stay. It's one of the interesting places to see after the sunset. The nightlife combines with gauzy surprise and entertainment. Discos and clubs like SinQ, Shiro Nightclubs, Club LPK-- Love Passion Karma, Pharaos, are the main attractions in Candolim, where a large number of tourists flock this place to enjoy drinking, dance and music. These are the best place to listen to some hip hop and rock type DJ's music. The party over here goes overnight ensuring perpetual fun and craziness. During your stay, you may try the Stone House on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday for cocktails & live music, raffles for the karaoke/Neil Diamond-sort of experience or if you want listen to Indian music, you may go 'Over the Flames' that is held on Monday & Thursday.

ARAMBOL BEACH FOR KITE SURFING

With its Bohemian atmosphere, Arambol has long been a tourist attraction in Goa for many of the long-term hippies & youthful backpackers. The relaxed environment at the Arambol beach coupled with peace and tranquility attracts many vacationers from other beaches of Goa.

Over here, one can indulge in water sports in Goa such as paragliding and kitesurfing.

SINQUERIM BEACH FOR DOLPHINE SAFARI

Sinquerim Beach with an amazing shoreline and perfect views that can make anyone fall in love with this place. If you are traveling with your friends or families, then you must head to this beach which is perfect for swimming and a few water activities.

VAGATOR BEACH

Vagator Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in north Goa. It is located in Bardez taluk of Goa about 21 km northwest of Panaji.

Located away from the other touristy places in Goa, Vagator is clean and quiet. Vagator is split into two as it is separated by a headland. When you stand on the headland facing the sea, the beach on your right is the Big Vagator Beach or North Vagator Beach and the beach on the left is Ozran Beach which is popularly known as Little Vagator Beach. The beach is a good place to spend some time in peace and helps recover from the glitz and crowds of Anjuna

BEACHES IN SOUTH GOA

PALOLEM BEACHFOR KAYAKING

The most popular beach of South Goa, Palolem is also one of the most picturesque beaches in the state. Enclosed by a thick forest of coconut palms, Palolem is popular amongst family vacationers as well as backpackers and young crowds. The beach is as perfect for a quiet laid-back holiday as for partying.

The north side of the beach is where one can find family vacationers enjoying their quiet and relaxing holiday. In the centre and south of Palolem Beach, backpackers and young crowd can be seen hanging out at the beach shacks or enjoying watersports.

AGUADA BEACH

While Fort Aguada is known to soothe your eyes with delightful views of Aguada beach, it allures the travellers with pristine landscape and the background of ancient citadels.

The beach is famous amongst honeymooners. It offers some gorgeous views of the beach from a height.

CLOVA BEACH FOR JET SKIING

This beach is located 33 kilometres away from the Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand and is at a distance of 8 kilometers from the Margao Railway Station. This beach of South Goa is considered to be one of the must-visit tourist attractions. This beach is considered to be the largest and oldest amongst the beaches lying in the southern region of Goa and is also counted amongst the best beaches in the entire state.

Colva Beach is famous for its pubs and bars and all the party lovers must head to this beach to have a lit night!

BENAULIM BEACH: INDULGE IN WATER SPORT ACTIVITIES

Located very close to Colva Beach, Benaulim Beach is a great beach with plenty of things to do apart from sitting back and relaxing. Indulge in various water sporting activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and wind surfing. Go on a candlelit romantic beach dinner or enjoy sightseeing froma range of options – Sernabatim Lake, Ramola Super Market, Sernabatim Beach, Copelwaddo Chapel, St Anthonys Church. It is one of the best places to visit in Goa.

Enjoy candlelit dinners at beach side restaurants like The Farmhouse Restaurant, Li Bai, Dinha’s Restaurant and The Pavilion.

BUTTERFLY BEACH

This beautiful Butterfly beach situated towards the north of the Palolem beach. It is very suitable for those seeking peace and isolation and is one of the quietest and unexplored beaches in Goa. The Butterfly beach is surrounded by a lot of rocks. One can enjoy the thrilling ride by the paddle boat towards the beach and also see some dolphins on the way.

The Butterfly beach is known for its clean water and a lot of tourists visit it to spot Dolphins.

EXPLORE THE MAJESTIC FORTS IN GOA

Forts in North Goa

· Fort Aguada

· Chapora Fort

· Reis Magos Fort

· Corjuem Fort

Forts in South Goa

· Cabo de Rama Fort

· Mormugao Fort

FORT AGUADA

With a historical legacy of about 400 years, Fort Aguada is a massive and marvelous citadel defining the landscape of Goa. The fort together with its lighthouse is one of the most visited attractions in Goa. Situated in Candolim, a major tourist hub in North Goa

one looks out at a panoramic ocean vista, witnessing the confluence of the Mandovi River and Arabian Sea, over which the fort has kept watch for more than four hundred years.

This is so majestic a sight that it is easy to picture a Portuguese galleon or carrack on the horizon, on the last leg of its arduous voyage from far off Portugal around the Cape of Good Hope, finally able to make safe harbor and replenish its supplies.

CHAPORA FORT

This is yet another popular destination for tourists and is especially a favourite evening haunt for people to chill out. The fort overlooks the Chapora river and hence its name. However, there is a more interesting name given to this fort i.e. ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ Fort. The name literally translates to ‘the heart yearns’ and the reason for this quirky name is that a Bollywood film with this title (Dil Chahta Hai) was shot back here in 2001. When the movie became a blockbuster, a sweeping hit, striking a chord with the young generation, people started indentifying this fort with the name of the movie only.

As highlighted earlier, the best time to visit Chapora Fort is evening time because sunset sky looks spectacular from here. Moreover, when the sky paints everything around, especially the Chapora River and beaches of Chapora, in its sunset colour, ah! the sight is just out of this world.

REIS MAGOS FORT

Standing tall and proud overseeing and protecting the taluka of Bardez, across the river from the capital city of Panaji, this fort was one of the first bastions of the Portuguese rulers against enemy invasion. The structure exudes majesty and grandeur and though it is not the biggest fort in Goa, it still commands respect and awe.

The fort, in its original role, once accommodated Portuguese dignitaries and viceroys and was an important point of defense against the Maratha Empire. It would never fall to the Marathas during its service. It fell to the hands of the British military for a brief period until 1813, and was then converted into a prison. Reis Magos would continue to be used as a prison until 1993, when it was abandoned. WDhat you see today is a restored version of the fort, skillfully done with the supervision of renowned architect Gerard da Cunha. It is now a cultural center, but its old design has been restored as is, and many parts of the fort still remain.

CORJUEM FORT

At a distance of 22 km from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 49 km from Vasco Da Gama Railway Station and 12 km from Mapusa, Corjuem Fort is a fortress situated 4 km from Aldona on the island of Corjuem in North Goa.

Corjuem Fort is also known as Khorjuem Fort. The Fort is surrounded by lush greenery and one can get a full view of beautiful villages and islands nearby. The Fort is built out of pitted laterite stones. In the early 1800s, the Fort was used as a Military School and had in its defenses a battery of four guns. The fortress defended the town of Corjuem and also had a chapel under parochial church of Aldona. Corjuem is well connected with Aldona by a cable suspension bridge which is a major source of attraction and it is the only suspension bridge in Goa.

The Corjuem Fort is now in ruins only the Fort walls are in a good shape. There is no entrance

CABO DE RAMA

Also hailed as 'Cab de Ram' beach by the locals, legends note that the fort derives its name from Ram pertaining to Ramayana because here's where Ram and Sita had found shelter during their 14 years in exile. Going by this fact, the fort is considered to be thousands of years old, making it one of the oldest forts in western India.

Established by the local Soonda rulers who ruled from this very spot, it was later overtaken by the Portuguese invaders after their arrival in Goa by defeating the local kings in 1763. The fort was then further refurbished by the foreigners given that it is a hub verdant scenic views overlooking the azure Arabian coastline. Inside the fort you'll find a gatehouse, moats,ramparts, bastions, 21 cannon guns, springs, a watch tower and a water tank- each with its own piece of history and silent yet often visible stories.

MORMUGAO FORT

This ancient behemoth, still well-preserved and standing proud today is considered to be one of the foremost coastal forts in Goa. Mormugao was an important port for Portuguese ships. It is said that the fortress, which is just a few kilometres away from the Mormugao port, was built to guard the mouth of the harbour.

This fortress is one of Goa’s pre-eminent tourist spots and remains exceedingly popular to this day, probably due to the degree to which it has been preserved. Its formidable bulwarks and bastions are intact and fortify the area to this day.

WATERFALLS IN GOA

When you mention Goa, people visualize the vast and incredible beaches. But Goa is more than these pristine beaches and sea. It is also blessed with varied landscape as it is situated in Sahayadri hills. There are many small and big hills in Goa, from where streams, springs and beautiful waterfalls emerge.

DUDHSAGAR WATERFALLS Enticing Sights

Situated on the Goa-Karnataka border, Dughsagar is definitely the best and the most beautiful waterfall in Goa. It originates from Mandovi river. Dudhsagar translates to ‘sea of milk’ and the water that falls from a height of 130 m resembles just that. It looks as if a huge vessel of milk has been poured from above. It is the fifth largest waterfall in India and the greenery surrounding it makes it all the more beautiful.

HIVRE WATERFALLS

Distance from Panaji 30 km.The amazing beauty of Hivre Waterfalls attracts tourists and adventure seekers year after year. If you are a nature lover, the pristine beauty surrounding this waterfall will be a treat to watch.

Trekking to this waterfall, crossing undulating hilly areas and dense jungle, will be a delight in itself.

The waterfalls are best to visit in monsoons.

HARVALEM WATERFALLS

Located at a distance of 2 km from Sanquelim town in North Goa. the Arvalem Waterfalls is a magnificent fall as it cascades from the lofty mountains and falls from a height of 50 m. Harvalem waterfalls is also a popular picnic spot for it is surrounded by a beautiful landscape. The revered and popular Rudreshwar temple is also close by making the spot all the more popular.

KESARVAL WATERFALLS

Tucked away in the dense tropical jungle and betel nut plantations, Kesarval Waterfalls, also called Kesarval Spring, is located on Verna plateau, off Panaji-Margao Highway. The waterfall is said to have medicinal properties and healing power.

It is a favourite among bathers, who come here post-monsoon to have a dip in the waters and spend a peaceful time among the serene tranquillity of the surrounding region.

SADA FALLS

Situated in Sada village on the Goa-Karnataka border, Sada waterfall is an amazing sight. With the picturesque Chorla Ghats in the background, the cascading waters fall from between two hills.

Sada falls lie at a distance of 8 km from a small village in the area. As you walk along the streams taking in the cool and refreshing air, you will hear the gushing sound of the water and as your walk ends, you will find the water falling from a height between two hills, a great view.

Netravali Waterfalls

It is spread around 211 sq km in Sanguem Taluka and is within the Madei wildlife sanctuary. Situated within Madei wildlife sanctuary, Netravali Waterfalls is a wonderful sight to behold. The whole region is enveloped in lush green forests of the Western Ghats. The waterfall looks even more beautiful after monsoons due to the increase in the flow of water..You will have to trek through waters to reach Netravali falls. There is an island type hill point from where you can get a close view of the falls as well as the surroundings.

TAMBDI SURLA WATERFALLS

Tambdi Surla Waterfalls is at its charming best in the monsoons, when water cascades from a high hill and roars down in spectacular beauty. The trek to Tambdi Surla falls is itself quite adventurous and fun as it is through the Bhagwan Mahavir wildlife Sanctuary.

The dense jungle and an ancient Shiva temple located near the falls adds a mystic charm to the falls. You will have to trek through a dense tropical forest of Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary to reach the waterfalls. The water falls from a height from the hills and makes its way through the rocks. It is a great experience to behold the gushing waters flowing in tranquility amidst green trees and lush bushes. Another attraction of the place is an ancient Shiva temple believed to have been built in the 15th century

KUSKEM WATERFALLS

The water falls from a height through rocky mountains and as it nears the bottom, it becomes clear and transparent water. The best time to visit it is either during monsoons or just after that, as during summers, the Kuskem waterfalls dries away and not much of it is visible. Hiking to Kuskem waterfalls is a great experience for trekkers and adventure junkies. best visited during monsoons or post monsoons.

Best ISLAND IN GOA

• Chorao Island: Spot Vibrant Bird Species

• Divar Island: Marvel At Portuguese Architecture

• Sao Jacinto Island: Take A Stroll & Relax

• Conco Island: The Picturesque Spot

• Butterfly Island: For Water Sports

• Raneache Zuvem: Savor The Scenic Views

• Vanxim Island: Go For A Boat Ride

• Cumbarja Island: For Mesmerizing Sunsets

• Grande Island: Click Pictures At The Lighthouse

CHORAO ISLAND: LARGEST ISLAND IN GOA

Chorao Island is true to its Sanskrit name meaning ‘Stunning Precious Stone’. From being a mere settlement of Portuguese noblemen, this Goan Island has grown into a quaint place nurturing few church and aged villas.

HOW TO REACH