Top 10 Places to visit in North Goa

Places to visit in North Goa

Goa, the party capital of India is notably divided into two hubs – North Goa and South Goa. Among these, North Goa is known to be lively, and buzzing with several activities. But there is much more to North Goa that meets the eye; it is a picturesque land of stunning natural beauty. So, all you must do is step out of your resorts in Goa, and head out to explore the many amazing things the northern part of the state has for you!  

Dotted with some of the best beaches in the country, North Goa has magnificent forts that are steeped in rich history, churches with alluring architecture and grand interiors, ancient temples, flea markets, casinos, and more that make it every tourist’s delight.  

This article lists top 10 places to visit in North Goa, that are perfect for a fun-filled vacation! 

Chapora Fort

A historic fort, dating back to 1717, Chapora Fort captured the attention of tourists from all over India after it was featured in the Bollywood Blockbuster, ‘Dil Chahta Hai.’ The movie gave it such recognition that many tourists refer to the fort as ‘Dil Chahta Hai fort’. 

Apart from its Bollywood reference, the Fort also has a rich history. It has been a silent witness to many historical events that have unfolded here through the years. History and natural beauty perfectly blend here.  

One of the most visited places in North Goa for a good reason, the fort is located on a hilltop and offers a stunning panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the Chapora River. While you are visiting the fort, make sure that you click some epic pictures with your loved ones, the sea in the backdrop, and the clear blue skies with bright sun, provide a perfect natural filter. 

Chapora fort timings: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, everyday

Entry fees: No

Baga Beach

When it comes to having a fun holiday in North Goa, there is no better place than Baga Beach. One of the most popular North Goa tourist places, Baga Beach gets its name from the Baga creek nearby that flows into the Arabian sea at the beach.  

Whether you want to party all night and want to visit all the popular hangout places located right at the beach, experience the thrill of the water sports, get a tattoo done or do some street shopping, Baga beach meets all your needs. With many popular restaurants and cafes around the beach that serve mouth-watering authentic Goan food, you can treat yourself to a delicious meal.  

Activities at Baga beach: Dolphin sighting, shopping, bar hopping, water sports activities 

Candolim Beach

While Baga beach is buzzing with activities all day, if you are looking for some tranquillity and peace to spend a quiet evening with your special someone, then head to Candolim Beach. Not far from Baga beach, this beautiful beach wears a completely different avatar than some of the other popular beaches in North Goa.  

Here you can relax and chill your heels on the sands or the hammock, enjoy the beautiful view in front of you while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. There are not too many commercial activities happening here, except for some water sports. So, you can easily find yourself a cosy corner at the beach and revel in the calm and serenity of the beach.  

Activities at Candolim beach: Banana boat rides, jet ski, bumper ride, parasailing 

Basilica of Bom Jesus Church

Your North Goa sightseeing itinerary would be incomplete without visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus Church. One of the few UNESCO Heritage sites in Goa, this magnificent church is steeped in rich history, which dates back to over 400 years. 

The church boasts a unique Portuguese style architecture and has a grand interior. Apart from its interior and exterior beauty and its rich history, the church holds an important place in the hearts and minds of the locals and many Christian devotees worldwide because it holds the mummy of St. Xavier, which is brought out for public viewing every ten years.  

During this time, thousands of devotees from all over the world gather at the church to see and seek blessings of the great holy saint.  

Basilica of Bom Jesus church timings: 9:00 am to 6:30 pm

Mangeshi Temple

If you think North Goa is all about beaches, party places, forts and churches, think again! Goa also houses many hidden gems and stunning temples. One such temple that deserves a special mention and is one of the best places to visit in north Goa is the Mangeshi temple.  

A popular and one of the largest temples in the state, the Mangeshi temple boasts a stunning Goan-style architecture, with its pristine white and golden domes and columns making it a cynosure to the eye. The residing God in this temple is Lord Shiva and it attracts several tourists every day who come here to bow their heads to the lord.  

Apart from its undeniable spiritual aura that fills every visitor’s heart with peace and calmness, one of the major attractions of the temple is the magnificent octagon-shaped lamp tower and a water tank. 

Mangeshi temple timings: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm 

Houses of Goa Museum

One of the most unique museums in Goa, the Houses of Goa Museum is as fascinating as it can get. Shaped like a ship, it stands bang in the middle of the road, and it is beautiful to look at from the outside. The colourful exterior makes for a pretty prop to click some beautiful pictures.  

Just as interesting as it seems from the outside, the interiors of the museum are even more endearing. Divided into three levels, it is one of the best North Goa places to visit to know about the architectural history of Goa. It also offers you a peek into the evolution of the houses of Goa and the surrounding areas.  

Houses of Goa Museum timings: Monday closed, 10:00 am to 7:30 pm (Tuesday to Sunday) 

Anjuna Flea Market

The flea markets of Goa are as popular as its beaches, churches, and cuisine and for a good reason. These markets are epic in every sense of the word and are every shopper’s paradise. Amongst all the markets in Goa, the flea market in Anjuna is the best.  

It comes alive every Wednesday, and you can buy loads of amazing stuff here. From fancy jewelleries, beach wears, wall hangings to souvenirs and Tibetan goods, you get it all here. And the best part, all the products available here are super affordable. It is one place where you can shop till you drop, literally without emptying your pockets.  

Apart from all the amazing stuff available at the market, the various entertainment activities happening around the market, and the sounds of live music coming from the restaurants and bars nearby, making the shopping experience even better.  

What to buy at Anjuna flea market: Beaded jewellery, kaftans, bamboo sling bags, décor, trinkets, shoes 

Arpora Night Market

Your holiday to North Goa would be incomplete without visiting the vibrant and lively night market at Arpora beach on Saturdays. This bustling market is one of the best places to visit in North Goa to purchase souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones back home.  

Here you can find a variety of items, like local handicrafts, designer garments, bags, accessories, and more. After a long day exploring the city and seeing the popular attractions around, visiting the market is a great way to unwind and indulge in some retail therapy.  

The food stalls in the market selling a variety of delicacies only add to the appeal of the place. You can munch on a few local specialty dishes, load up your energy and continue your shopping spree for as long as you want.  

Arpora night market timings: 4:00 pm to midnight 

Reis Magos Fort

Standing on a hilltop, Reis Magos Fort has played many roles in its long history spanning over four hundred years. Once the official residence of the viceroy of India, and other eminent personalities, it was also used as a prison, and since then, it has been lying as an abandoned fort; it has seen many glorious chapters of history unfold within its walls.  

The fort, one of the best North Goa places to visit, serves as an important cultural centre of Goa and draws many tourists every day. While you climb the fort, you get the most beautiful view of the Arabian sea below, and there are various spots where you can click some stunning pictures.  

Don’t miss out on seeing the stunning cannon that is placed atop, which gives an indication that the fort was used for defence purposes back in the time.  

Reis Magos fort timings: Monday closed, 9:30 am to 5:00 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)

Entry fees: Rs. 50 for adult and free entry for kids below 8 years of age  

Arambol Beach

A stunning beach with a distinct vibe, Arambol beach is popular among the foreign tourists coming to Goa. It is the perfect blend of serenity, natural beauty, and vibrancy. During the day, the beach looks like any ordinary beach with tourists taking a dip in the cool blue sea, lazing around on the sand, or indulging in water sports. 

Once the sun goes down, and the dawn sets in, the beach unravels a completely different face. It comes alive and buzzing with many activities as you can see people dancing in smaller groups, having a party, people performing fire dance, doing juggling acts and more.  

Just as fascinating as the activities on the beach are, what makes it one of the best places to visit in north Goa is its unique setting. It has both powdery sand and huge rocks around, which you won’t find at other beaches in North Goa. 

Activities at Arambol beach: Paragliding, see the Palilem lake, surfing 

Best places to stay in North Goa

If you are travelling with your family or your special someone, you can check-in into Club Mahindra Assonora, one of the most premium resorts in Goa. Experience the charm of Assonora, a delightful village located in North Goa's Bardez sub-district. It boasts one-of-its-kind Lazy river in the resort. Make Club Mahindra Assonora Resort your stay option in North Goa, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings and embrace the wonders it has to offer.  

This North Goa resort presents an array of culturally rich experiences designed for the whole family. Uncover the secrets of Goan cuisine as you learn from the skilled chefs, indulge in the allure of Goan-themed evenings, and embark on adventures along the golden shores of the beaches. Each day will be a treasured memory waiting to be created. 

Activities at Club Mahindra Assonora Resort:

1. Goan Carnival Theme Party
2. Dance Workshop
3. BLive trails
4. Adventure Park Trails
5. Mehendi Designing 
6. Laser Gun Tagging
7. Art & Craft
8. VR Skydiving
9. Theme Nights 

North Goa in 2023 offers a plethora of captivating destinations that are sure to satisfy every traveller's wanderlust. It is a treasure trove of experiences, beckoning you with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and endless activities.