The small town of Mapusa is located in the North Goa and is also popular by the name of Mapsa or Mahpsa. Located on the main National Highway 17, the town is situated in the Bardez Taluka at a distance of just about 13 kms away from Panaji, the capital city of Goa. The town is known for its tropical climate and which makes the weather just fine for tourists to enjoy their holiday.
The small town of Mapusa boasts of a rich historical legacy. There are several historical monuments and forts located in the town symbolizing the era of Portuguese rule on the state of Goa. Other major tourist attractions of the town include the Mascarenhas Mansion, Aguada fort, Reis Magos fort, Sri Morjee temple and the Sri Kalika Temple. Despite being a predominantly commercial town, Mapusa is favored by tourists because of its proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches of Goa, where the calm waters of the sea have a relaxing and refreshing effect on them.
Another major attraction of Mapusa is its colorful Friday market, which attracts shopaholics from all parts of Goa. Vendors and small shopkeepers from the surrounding towns and villages throng the market with the hope of earning a good profit. People can make all sorts of purchases here ranging from clothes to food items to chunky jewelry and even local handicrafts and trinkets.
The best time to visit Mapusa is during the months between October and April. The town is well connected by roads from nearby states, and can be reached by taking any of the round the clock bus, taxi or even auto service. The nearest railway station is the Tivim railway station, located 12 kms away from Mapusa.
