Places to visit in Goa

Located along the western coast of India, Goa is commonly known as the Rome of the East, and is further categorised into North and South Goa. Exuding a deep-rooted Portuguese culture, age-old traditions, rich heritage and immense beauty, North Goa is also home to some of the most pristine beaches in India, such as Anjuna and Calangute. 

From scenic beaches, to luxury hotels, resorts, quaint cafes and bistros, to fine dining restaurants, as well as a wide array of water sports, adventure activities, clubs and more, there is nothing more that you will need on your visit to North Goa. 

North Goa is also amongst the most popular party hotspots in the region, known for its amazing beach parties, pubs, festivities, and carnivals. In addition to historic places of attraction, like Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort and Anjuna Market, you can also find several adventure activities to indulge in during your stay here. Some of these include spice plantation tours, sunset boat cruises, trekking, parasailing and scuba diving, among others. 

For others, there are several flea markets and boutiques where you can enjoy some retail therapy and shop for unique things. North Goa has something for everyone, and is a place that you will keep wanting to come back to.

South Goa is a complete blend of historical churches and temples, exotic and sandy beaches, glimpses of Portuguese architecture, delicious seafood, and an undisputable romantic vibe. It is a place that will make you feel a different shade with its popular tourist attractions. The place is a complete paradise for visitors who are fond of leisurely walks at the beaches and are in search of peace. 

You must take out some time from your busy schedule and visit South Goa to have a chill and relaxing vacation. The exotic dolphin sighting at the Butterfly Beach, ayurvedic massage at Palolem Beach, and the full-moon parties at the Colva Beach are some of the exhilarating things to do in South Goa. 

The mouth-watering local dishes and international cuisines at South Goa are a must-try for every individual. Both the interiors and exteriors of the restaurant lining the beaches of South Goa provide a perfect getaway for a date night with your loved ones. The thrilling water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving are some of the exemplary activities for adventure lovers. Therefore, Goa has everything to suit the interests of all age groups.

So, pick up your bags and get ready for an electrifying experience at the heart of South Goa.

Panjim, also known as Panaji, is the capital city of India’s beach paradise Goa. Situated on the southern left banks of the serene Mandovi River, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Goa. Characterised by a cluster of rolling terraced hills and the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church overlooking the city, Panjim is a small, but fascinating city that displays the unique blend of the ancient times with the present. 

The old tiled-roof buildings, tree-lined avenues and age-old bridges in Panjim speak of its rich Portuguese past and its influences. Considered to be one of the most beautiful state capitals, this city is known for its scenic beaches, colonial structures, floating casinos, as well as immense natural beauty. 

A visit to Panjim is guaranteed to be memorable, with the yellow-red-blue painted buildings dotting the streets that you can explore on a bike or on foot. From taking a walk on the stunning Miramar Beach surrounded with palm groves, to walking through mangrove forests in the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Panjim has a lot of places of attraction for you to explore. From local flea markets like the Anjuna Market, to ancient churches and structures like the Reis Magos Fort and Fort Aguada, as well as pristine beaches like Vagator and Dona Paula, Panjim is a treasure trove of sightseeing attractions. 

There is no dearth of things to do in Panjim as well. The city is one of the best places in all of Goa to indulge in a wide array of water sports and activities, including surfing, scuba diving, parasailing and boating, among others. Besides that, wildlife tours, heritage walks, shopping, as well as gorging on delicious local Goan delicacies are some of the best things to do in Panjim.

Known for its typical subtropical climate, Panjim, like the rest of Goa, experiences rather hot weather conditions all through the year. The days here are long and sunny, while the nights are pleasant, with a cool sea breeze blowing around. The summers here, from March to May, are extremely humid, followed by the rainy season till early September, which are the wettest months of the year. October onwards, until February, are the best months to visit Panjim, since the weather during this time is ideal for sightseeing, water sports and beach activities.