Goa is a stunning coastal state in India, known for its golden beaches, vibrant nightlife, Portuguese heritage, and laid-back vibe. Whether you’re looking for a party scene, a serene escape, or cultural exploration, Goa has it all. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Goa.
When is the best time to visit Goa?
- Peak Season: November to February (pleasant weather, perfect for beach activities).
- Monsoon Season: June to September (lush greenery, ideal for nature lovers).
- Off-Season: March to May (hot, but less crowded and cheaper).
Where to Stay in Goa?
Goa is split into North Goa and South Goa.
- North Goa: For anyone visiting Goa to party till morning, north Goa would be the best option. There are clubs located around Baga, Candolim, Anjuna, Vagator etc. It is best for party lovers, beach shacks, and water sports.
- South Goa: For individuals with a hectic lifestyle looking to visit Goa for chill scenes, South Goa is the best option as the south is filled with luscious greenery and the best beaches in Goa. Palolem, Colva, Agonda, Majorda and Benaulim beach are a must visit when travelling down south. You will find affordable stays yet serene views that will make your trip completely worth it.
- Central Goa: Panjim and Old Goa are known to be in the. central region of Goa. These places offer a mix of cultures, Portuguese architecture and river views.
Top Things to do in Goa
- Visit the beautiful beaches
North Goa
- Baga Beach: Known for parties and water sports.
- Anjuna Beach: Famous for its flea market and hippie vibe.
- Vagator Beach: Scenic cliffs and vibrant beach clubs.
- Calangute Beach: Bustling and family-friendly.
- Candolim Beach: Tourist favourite and best for nightlife.
South Goa
- Palolem Beach: Quiet, picturesque, and ideal for kayaking.
- Colva Beach: Long stretches of white sand.
- Agonda Beach: Serene and less crowded.
- Butterfly Beach: Hidden gem accessible by boat.
- Majorda Beach: One of the cleanest beaches in Goa.
2. Cultural and Historical Sites
- Visit the Old Goa churches: Bom Jesus Basilica and Se Cathedral. Basilica of Bom Jesus holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier whereas Se Cathedral is one of Asia’s largest churches.
- Visit Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with panoramic views.
- Visit Chapora Fort, made famous for its role in the movie Dil Chahta Hai.
3. Lastly, Visit Fontainhas!
Fontainhas is the Latin Quarter in Panaji, known for colorful Portuguese houses and quaint streets. The streets are vibrant enough to catch your eyes and make for the most instagrammable pictures ever. This has to be one of our favourite streets in Goa. The cafés around this area provide authentic Goan cuisine made from scratch.
What to Eat in Goa?
Goa has amazing local snacks and drinks to choose from. Some of the must try local dishes include: Goan fish thali, pork vindaloo, chicken xacuti, sorpotel, bebinca etc.
The local drink, Feni is a liquor made from cashews or coconut.
