Travelling to Goa- A Concise Travel Guide

Lively beaches, vibrant nightlife, ancient architecture, and serene natural attractions- Goa has something to offer everyone. Most importantly, the place is full of energy and positivity. Unsurprisingly, Goa stays on the radar of many people who want a break from life's monotony and enjoy a fun-filled holiday with family.  

If you have been planning to take a trip to Goa for long, now would be the best to visit the party capital of India. With the New Year around the corner, the small coastal state, attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.  The following Goa travel guide can help you plan your tour accordingly. The guide gives you valuable information on 

• Best places to visit in Goa

• Best time to visit Goa

• How to reach Goa?

Best Places to Visit in Goa 

• Panaji

Almost all Goa trips begin from Panaji. Situated on the banks of the Mandavi River, the state’s capital is a major tourist attraction, with a strong influence of the erstwhile Portuguese rule still visible in the form of buildings and architecture. The city has numerous old cathedrals, churches, and other heritage buildings.  

• Basilica of Bom Jesus (Assanora)

Any religious travel guide to Goa can’t be complete without including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, one of the most iconic monuments in Goa. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the church is more than 400 centuries old. Moreover, the church is revered as a holy site as it houses the mortal remains of Saint Francis Xavier.  

• Chapora Fort

The Chapora fort was one of the most strategically important forts on the western coast in earlier times. Built on a hill, the fort overlooks a vast stretch of the Arabian sea and the Chapora river. It was an ideal location to spot the approaching ships from far away. 

Today, it’s a major sightseeing spot visited by backpackers, families, and friends. The iconic scene of three friends in “Dil Chahta Hai” looking toward the sea was shot here.  

• Baga Beach

The Baga beach is a part of the continuous stretch of beaches that include Candolim, Sinquerim, and Calangute beaches. It’s one of the most popular beaches in Goa. Apart from walking or relaxing on the beach, Baga Beach also offers various adventurous sports like scuba diving, jet skiing, etc. 

Travel Tip - Club Mahindra Assonora, Goa, is a wonderful resort in Bardez. All the destinations above are a short distance away from here. So, book a room in this resort and explore all the nearby attractions. 

Club Mahindra Acacia Palms in Madgaon is another great resort to consider when exploring North Goa. The resort is just 100 metres away from Colva beach.  

• Dudhsagar Falls

Located on the Belagavi-Vasco Da Gama rail route, Dudhsagar falls captured India’s imagination after being featured in the Shahrukh Khan-Deepika Padukone starred Hindi movie “Chennai Express”. The four-tier waterfall on the Mandovi river is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The beauty of the waterfall is particularly visible during the Monsoon season when it flows at its full might.

Travel Tip - If you’re exploring South Goa, consider staying at Club Mahindra Varca or Club Mahindra Emerald Palms. The two are among the finest resorts in Goa. Most iconic locations in south Goa, like Dudhsagar, falls, Vasco Da Gama, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, etc., are a short distance away from these resorts.

Best time to Visit Goa?

You can make a trip to Goa at any time of the year as the place is a round-the-year tourist hotspot. However, the best time to visit Goa is during the winter season, which lasts from November to February. The peak tourist season is during Christmas and the new year when the party spirit of Goa is on a full boom. 

The weather during the winter season remains cool and pleasant for sightseeing, sunbathing, and walking tours. Besides, it’s the best time to experience the culinary diversity of Goa. Pork Vindaloo, Crab Xacuti, and Prawn Balachao are some of the unique foods of Goa that you must try during your Goa trip.

How to Reach Goa?

By Air

The Goa International Airport at Dabolim and Manohar International Airport at Caservane are two major airports that receive flights from major domestic and international cities. 

By Train

Goa has two major railway stations- Vasco Da Gama and Margao. Many long-distance trains to and from places like New Delhi, Mumbai, and other parts of India frequent these stations. However, Rajdhani express, and Goa Sampark Kranti are the first preference for many travellers. 

By Road

Goa is well-connected to all the major Indian cities through a network of highways like NH4A, NH 17, NH17A, etc. Therefore, a road trip to Goa can be a good option for bikers and car enthusiasts. Additionally, numerous bus services connect Goa with its nearby big cities like Mumbai, Mangalore, and Bangalore. 

So, use the information above as your guide to Goa and complete a memorable trip. This is one place that shouldn’t wait long on your wish list.