1M+ 
Centered on the western coast, Goa is the smallest state, which is quite popular for its vibrant nightlife, delicious seafood, and beautiful beaches. Lying in the Konkan region, this place used to be a haven for hippies. The laid-backness of Goa not only attracts Indians but also international tourists. The Goan people are friendly toward tourists and celebrate various festivals throughout the year. Goa is known for its nightlife as it has many clubs, bars, and cafes to explore for tourists.
Best Places to Visit in Goa
Some of the best places that you can visit in Goa are as follows:-
Dudhsagar Falls
Also called the Sea of Milk, Dudhsagar Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the country. Situated on the Mandovi River, these falls are 310 meters high. It is located 46 km away from east of Madgaon and 80 km South of Belagav. Dudhsagar Falls are easily accessible from the road, as it is 60 km away from Panjim city. Tourists from Panaji and other nearby areas reach Dudhsagar Falls by jeep or private transport. However, tourists from faraway places can reach the falls by trekking or by train. The best time to visit these falls is the monsoon season, which starts in June and ends in the month of August. If you are a nature lover, you would love to be here. You can capture some of the most beautiful photos when you are here.
Fort Aguada
It is a renowned Portuguese Fort and is approximately 18 kilometers from Panjim. One of the striking features of the fort is a 4-storey lighthouse that offers a beautiful view of the sunset. Constructed in the year 1612, Fort Aguada is named after the word ‘Agua’, which means water in Portuguese. It used to be a source of fresh water for the sailors. This fort was one of the biggest freshwater reservoirs of Asia and could hold approximately 2,376,000 gallons of water. It is considered the perfect example of Portuguese architecture. The fort is constructed with the help of Laterite stone and has witnessed many events in the past.
Anjuna Beach
Situated near Panjim, this is one of the most famous beaches in North Goa. It is highly popular for its nightclubs, watersports, golden coastline, flea markets, and full-moon parties. If you visit this beach during the daytime, you can taste the delectable food of many restaurants such as Basilico, Baba Au Rhum, etc. Anjuna Beach was once a favorite spot for the hippies and is still popular among tourists. Once you are here, you will get to meet people from all over the world.
Palolem Beach
It is one of the must-visit places in Goa, which is approximately. 38 km away from Madgaon. Palolem Beach is popular for its tranquility and positive vibes as compared to other beaches of Goa. One of the striking features of this beach is the Dolphin spotting cruise. Other worth exploring places in Palolem beach include beach shacks, the shoreline, and a few souvenir shops. You can explore the entire beach on foot within 20 minutes. You can indulge in many activities when you are in Goa. Some of the activities that you can try include swimming, scuba diving, dolphin spotting, kayaking, etc. Tourists like to spend the night while dancing to the melodious music. The beach is not only popular for its colors and lights, but also for the ‘silent noise parties’. The environment of these parties is great, as anybody can dance and enjoy here to their fullest.
Baga Beach
It is another famous beach in Goa where you can witness the vibrant nightlife of Goa. It is situated near Calangute beach and is the right destination for travelers. You will find many famous places here, such as Tito’s, Mambos, Britto’s, etc. It is also one of the most visited beaches where tourists can enjoy several water sports. Baga Beach is also immensely popular for its street-side markets and designer stores. This beach comes alive in the evening when the visitors get busy at the parties that are organized here.
Best Time to Visit Goa
November to February is the ideal time for travelers to visit Goa. The temperature remains 25 to 35 degrees Celsius, which makes it comfortable for you to explore Goa. Another good time to explore Goa is between June to September. During this time, you will experience rain. People who love rain must visit Goa in this weather. Apart from monsoon and winter, you can also explore Goa in the summer season. However, it is not advisable to visit Goa in this season. During this period, the weather is hot and humid. Thus, most tourists do not choose this season to visit Goa.
Shopping in Goa
Some of the best shopping zones in Goa where you can shop are:
Anjuna Flea Market
This is one of the famous markets in Goa where you can purchase a variety of goods. Some of the items that you can buy in this market include spices, wall hangings, footwear, hammocks, local handicrafts, etc. It is believed that this market was founded by hippies in the 60s. You can buy a wide range of items here at the best prices.
Night Bazaar at Arpora
Also known as Ingo’s Night Bazaar, Arpora is another famous market you can explore during your visit to Goa. This market is categorized into 3 sections. Each of these sections sells a certain category of things. You can purchase jewelry, vegetables, fruits, wines, home décor items, spices, etc, from this market. It is a great place for foodies who can enjoy delectable cuisines here.
Panjim Market
This market is a perfect mixture of old and new. It is the largest market in the whole of Goa. You will find a wide range of items here, such as handicrafts, wine, nuts, etc. You can enjoy the local food as you will find many local restaurants here.
Mapusa Market
It is another famous market of Goa, which is immensely popular among the locals. This is a weekly market where you can purchase vegetables, clothes, fruits, and other items at the best prices. You can take beautiful pictures and meet the local people here. Many local artisans, farmers, and traders sell their items here without any middlemen. You can buy fresh local food here, such as dried fish, spiced sausages, Goan Chorizo, pickles, etc. Apart from that, you can also buy desserts here, such as cashew nuts, bebinca, dodol, etc.
Calangute Market Square
It is also one of the famous shopping destinations that people visit to buy their desired items. Situated near the Calangute Beach, this shopping destination offers you a variety of items such as beachwear, jewelry, souvenirs, and sarongs.
Ashwem Beach Market
If you are looking to buy unique items, you must go to Ashwem Beach Market. It is a flea market where you can find all types of products, such as dresses, durable shoes, etc. You can also buy Bohemian handmade dresses in the market.
CocoRoots
You must visit this place if you want to buy jewelry. CocoRoots is the best destination to buy unique jewelry. It has a great collection of ethnic jewelry, which is made with the help of animals’ horns and bones, and coconuts. You can buy beautiful items here for your friends and family members.
How to Reach Goa?
You can reach Goa in the following ways:
How to Reach Goa by Air?
The nearest airport to Goa is the Dabolim Airport, which is 26 km away from Panaji. It has two terminals and it is connected to the major cities of the country. This airport also offers flights to different international destinations such as Copenhagen, Doha, and Muscat. You can take taxis after reaching the airport and resume your journey to your final destination in Goa.
How to Reach Goa by Train?
You can also opt for a train journey while going to Goa. This is one of the most convenient modes of transport for travelers. Those who want to reach Goa can catch a train from Madgaon or Vasco da Gama railway station as per their requirements. After arriving at the railway station, you can get a taxi service to reach your destination in Goa.
How to Reach Goa by Road?
You can also catch a bus to reach Goa. Many inter-state or luxury buses offer you a convenient journey to your destination. You can choose these buses if you are looking for an affordable journey to Goa.
Getting Around Goa
By Bus
You can get around Goa by bus. There is a good network of buses that will take you to the main spots of Goa. You can also take private or state transport corporation buses to explore the worth-seeing places in Goa.
By Car
You can also explore Goa by car. Many firms offer rental cars to tourists. Apart from the rental cars, you can also book taxis to get around Goa. You can find them near your hotel and resort. The private taxis are available for you at the Goa airport and railway stations. Thus, you can hire them and explore the must-visit places in Goa without any inconvenience.
By Motorcycle
Goa offers tourists an interesting way to explore it. Known as ‘pilot’, this is a motorcycle taxi, which is one of the fastest ways to get around Goa. You can use it if you want to travel to nearby locations. These motorcycle taxis have yellow number plates and yellow mudguards. A pilot, who is the driver of the bike, can carry only one pillion rider. There are special taxi stands for these motorcycle taxis.
