Goa

1. Calangute Beach: North Goa’s longest beach, Calangute Beach is no less than a real paradise for backpackers from across the globe. Known popularly as “The Queen of Beaches”, this spectacular Goan beach has its name among the world’s top 15 bathing beaches. Calangute Beach owes its popularity to its spectrum of thrilling water activities, shacks, food joints, and pubs.  

2. Basilica of Bom Jesus: Known popularly for its awe-inspiring baroque architecture, Basilica of Bom Jesus has remnants of St. Francis Xavier. Constructed back in 1594, the development of this Christian shrine corresponds to the inception of Christianity as a religion in India. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Basilica of Bom Jesus has stood magnificently against the test of time and continues to lure visitors from all over the world. 

3. Dudhsagar Falls: Lying within the premises of Mollem National Park, Dudhsagar Falls cascade right from the lofty hills of the Western Ghats. Counted among the country’s highest waterfalls, the mighty Dudhsagar has its name among the world’s 100 highest waterfalls. Enticing nature lovers and photo fanatics, Dudhsagar Falls give the illusion of a heavy flow of milk gushing down a majestic hill. 

4. Fort Aguada: Constructed back in the seventeenth century, Fort Aguada is a brilliant example of the mesmerizing Portuguese architecture. Lying on the Sinquerim Beach, this fort offers its visitors a truly breathtaking view of the meeting of the Arabian Sea and Mandovi River. Named after the Portuguese term for water, ‘Agua’, this fortress once formed a source of clean water for seafarers. 

5. Dona Paula: Dona Paula is popular across the globe as one of the most enticing monuments in Goa. With iconic stories, passion, love, and romance filled in its atmosphere, Dona Paula is even counted among North Goa’s most flamboyant beaches. Offering its visitors, a spectacular sight of Mormugao harbor, this beach makes for an incredibly beautiful getaway in the state. 

6. Chapora Fort: An epitome of incredible beauty and rich history, Chapora Fort is named after the spectacular Chapora River, which flows alongside it. Constructed by the Portuguese back in the year 1717, this mesmerizing fortress has gained a lot of popularity after the blockbuster Bollywood movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot here. From the Portuguese emperors to the Maratha kings, Chapora Fort has made its way through the ownership of several rulers and today its relics tell the legendary tales.

1. Jet Ski rides at famous beaches like Candolim, Baga and Vagator: Jet-Skiing is one of the most thrilling activities that can be experienced by adventure enthusiasts of all expertise levels at Candolim, Baga, and Vagator beaches of Goa. By taking up this activity, you can get a chance to enjoy gliding through the never-ending waters of these popular Goan beaches while experiencing the warm sunshine on your skin. 

2. Parasailing at famous beaches like Anjuna and Vagator: Fly into the blue sky at Anjuna and Vagator beaches as a superfast speed boat pulls you along. In the course of your flight, you can catch an awe-inspiring sight of the stunning landscape below, which is sure to make you go gaga.

3. Ringo Rides can be best enjoyed at Pindul Cave: Ringo Ride is an easy adventure activity that can be enjoyed at Pindul Cave in Goa. The riders can just sit on an inflated circular tubes tied to a speedboat and float over the surface of the water, getting soaked in the ultimate excitement and fun. The actual fun of Ringo Ride can be experienced towards the end when this circular tube would tumble upwards, leaving you to float on the sea.

4. Water Skiing and Scuba diving at Mobor beach: If you want to satisfy your immeasurable adrenaline rush, head to Mobor Beach to try water skiing and scuba diving. While the former can give you the chance to rush along the waves, the latter can help you explore the spectacular underwater scenery.

5. Speed Boating at Baina beach: If you love speed and want to experience this force in water, you can go try speed boating at Baina Beach. While you rush through the clear water you can feel the breeze making its way through your hair, which of course enhances the thrill. Speed boating is one of the easiest adventure activities to try on your Goa trip, irrespective of your age group and level of expertise.   

6. Wakeboarding at Baga Beach: If you hate the high focus and effort needed to balance yourself while trying water skiing, you can go experience wakeboarding at Baga Beach. Unlike water skiing, this activity uses a single ski board and requires pretty less concentration on balance. You can experience the rejuvenating water hitting your face while you effortlessly move along the waves.

7. Windsurfing at Dona Paula: Immensely exciting and thrilling, windsurfing at Dona Paula is an interesting amalgam of sailing and surfing on the waters of the Arabian Sea. The riders need to ride their boards along the constantly changing direction of the wind to acquire an unforgettable experience.

8. Kite surfing at Morjim: If you want the best adventure experience in water, go for kite surfing at Morjim Beach without giving it a second thought. Being an amalgam of wakeboarding, jet-skiing, and surfing, this activity can be super thrilling and immensely fun. 

9. Bumpy banana ride at famous beaches like Baga, Calangute, Anjuna and Vagator: Banana Boat Ride forms a great attraction at the famous Goan beaches like Vagator, Anjuna, Calangute, and Baga. An inflated banana-shaped boat is tied to a speedboat that runs through the water at a great speed, sprinting off the riders. The participants then heave themselves up the boat and the cycle continues. 

10. Kayaking in backwaters of the Mandovi, Zuari, Chorao and Nerul River: If you want to experience a calmer and more peaceful water activity, you can go try kayaking at Mandovi, Zuari, Chorao, and Nerul rivers of Goa. Best done during the monsoons, this activity can give you the opportunity to explore the beautiful mangroves while paddling through the backwaters.  

11. Angling or Sport Fishing in Dona Paula: Sport fishing is an amazing activity to indulge in at Dona Paula beach in Goa. The instructors present at the spot can help you with the right techniques required to catch a couple of fishes from the clear waters. After the activity, you can also relish the fishes you have caught using your skills. 

12. Snorkeling at Grand Island and Bogmalo beach: Your adventurous trip to Goa will remain incomplete without acquiring an experience of snorkeling. You can head to Grand Island or Bogmalo Beach and submerge yourself to catch an enchanting sight of the beautiful underwater creatures like lionfish, barracudas, angelfish, snappers, and batfish.

13. Water rafting in Mhadei river and Valpoi river: Although not many people are aware of this, yet water rafting is possible in Goa and all thanks goes to Mhadei and Valpoi rivers. Surrounded by lush vegetation and green trees on all sides, rafting in the white waters of these rivers can offer you a truly serene experience.

14. Winch-boat parasailing at Mobor Beach: Winch-boat parasailing can lift up your spirits and make you proud of your skills. Done mainly at Mobor Beach, this soul-stirring water sport can take you super high into the sky and offer you a mesmerizing sight of the unending panorama of the Arabian Sea. 

15. Dolphin spotting at Mobor Beach: If you want to spend some time interacting with the marine creatures, you can head to Mobor Beach and enjoy a dolphin safari. During this safari, you can experience spotting finless porpoises and Indo pacific Humpback dolphins, among others.

1. From Mumbai:
Goa is well-connected to Mumbai by air, rail, and road. The aerial, rail, and road distances between both the places are 435 km, 632 km, and 609 km respectively. You can easily take a direct train from the city to reach your destination in no more than just 6h 24m. Some of the major direct trains from Mumbai to Goa are Jan Shatabdi Exp, Dadar Ten Exp, Maru Sagar Exp, Mngla Lksdp Exp, and Pnbe Vsg Exp.

Many leading airways facilitate flight service from Mumbai to Goa, helping travelers reach their destination in just 1h 05m. Travelers can also take a direct bus to reach Goa from Mumbai within 7h. 

2. From Pune:
The distance between Pune and Goa can be conveniently covered by air, road, and rail. The aerial, rail, and road distances between both the places are 357 km, 492 km, and 473 km respectively. There are three direct trains – Pune Ers Sup Exp, Poorna Exp, and Goa Exp – that travelers can take to reach Goa from Pune within 12h. 

Travelers can also take direct flights from the top airways to reach their destination in just 1h 10m. You can also take the State Transport Bus to reach Goa from Pune within 11h 15m.

3. From Bangalore:
Goa and Bangalore are connected conveniently to each other through all mediums of transport. The aerial, rail, and road distances between both the destinations are 463 km, 638 km, and 564 km respectively. Three direct trains – Mas Vasco Exp, Vlnk Vsg Exp, and Ypr Vasco Exp – help travelers from Bangalore to reach Goa in 13h 05m. 

Direct flights from leading airways help travelers reach their destination from Bangalore within 1h 25m. Tourists can also take the State Transport Bus for reaching Goa from Bangalore within 14h 18m.

4. From Delhi:
Delhi is conveniently connected to Goa via all important means of transportation. The road, rail, and aerial distances between both the locations are 1877 km, 2094 km, and 1515 km respectively. There are twelve direct trains that help passengers reach Goa from Delhi within 25h 37m.

Tourists can also take direct flights from New Delhi to land at Goa International Airport within just 2h 30m. There isn’t any direct bus from Delhi to Goa. Travelers from Delhi can first reach Pune and take a government bus from here to finally arrive at Goa.

The winter months of November to February are usually considered as the most ideal time to visit Goa.

- Winter (November to February)
With wonderful weather, several celebrations and festivities, and exquisite activities, the winter months make for the best time to head to Goa. During this time, most tourists prefer experiencing various water activities at the beaches. 

In December, Goa gets covered with Christmas trees and lights to observe Christmas. The New Year is also celebrated with great pomp and show at this time. Music festivals, food festivals, and carnivals are also held during this period.

- Monsoon (July to September)
During the monsoons, Goa receives heavy rainfall, which results in the shutting down of water activities. Trekking and hiking activities also get limited as the trails turn slippery during the rainy season. However, travelers who love rain and want to experience lush greenery, can visit Goa during this time. 

- Summer (March to June)
The summer months lead to high levels of humidity in Goa. Although the beaches remain breezy, being outdoors can be a bit difficult. So, not many travelers prefer visiting Goa during the summer season.

1. Grande Island: Grande Island is an amazing place to get the best experience of snorkeling. In order to reach the island, you will need to take a boat ride during which you can see beautiful dolphins. Once you reach the mesmerizing sun-kissed island, you can dive into the blue waters and spend time in the spectacular marine world. After snorkeling, you can also enjoy an amazing sunbath at Grande Island and acquire a nice tan.    

2. Shelter Cove near Vasco da Gama: With a total depth of about 6 meters, Shelter Cove can offer you a fun-filled snorkeling experience since there are very few undercurrents. Located near Grande Island’s northeastern periphery, this destination can offer snorkelers the chance to watch umpteen varieties of underwater animals including parrotfish, triggerfish, stonefish, angelfish, and lionfish. If you are fortunate enough, you can even spot some rare marine creatures like Hawksbill Turtles, cuttlefish, and squid. Shelter Cove also flaunts a breathtaking coral system. 

3. Uma Guma: Lying only fourteen meters beneath the surface, Uma Guma is another jaw-dropping spot for experiencing Snorkeling in Goa. This amazing site can offer you the scope to spot a plethora of interesting marine creatures such as porcupine fish, triggerfish, barracuda, parrotfish, anglerfish, big groupers, and surgeonfish. The presence of awe-inspiring coral reefs further adds to the charm of your underwater experience.

4. Bat Island: If you want to acquire an unforgettable snorkeling experience in Goa, head to Bat Island without a second thought. This spot is full of fascinating marine creatures including humpback dolphins. Snorkeling at this spectacular island would not only rejuvenate you, but will also allow you to explore the best hidden treasures of North Goa. 

5. Navy Island: Navy Island is a popular destination for snorkeling in the state of Goa. With its clear and clean waters, this destination promises amazing underwater visibility to the snorkelers, which enhances the thrill and fun involved in the activity. Some of the underwater creatures you can meet with during your activity include stonefish, barracudas, morays, lionfish, angelfish, sea whips, nudibranchs, and parrotfish.

6. The Jetty: With an 8-meter shallow depth, The Jetty happens to be yet another suitable site for carrying out snorkeling. Lying on Grande Island’s northwestern tip, this spot invites both beginner and seasoned snorkelers to test their skills. Featuring a broad spectrum of marine animals, corals, and underwater vegetation, The Jetty can offer you a memorable snorkeling experience.

1. Baga Beach: Although Baga Beach has achieved a lot of popularity worldwide for its amazing nightlife and beach shacks, this beach has got much more to entice its visitors with. The beach offers tourists an opportunity to engage in a broad spectrum of water sports including power scooter riding, parasailing, jet-skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. One of the most unique activities offered by Baga Beach is Knee Wakeboarding that happens to be an amalgam of water skiing, surfing, and snowboarding. This exhilarating activity has become a recent favorite among the adventure junkies from all over the world.  

2. Sinquerim Beach: Counted among the top Goan beaches for the adventure junkies, Sinquerim Beach flaunts its golden sand and spectacular sea, which lures the thrill seekers. This beach makes available for a plethora of mind-boggling water activities including parasailing, water-skiing, windsurfing, jet-skiing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.  

3. Anjuna Beach: Lying in North Goa and surrounded on all sides by the Arabian Sea’s clear waters, Anjuna Beach happens to be a paradise for water activity enthusiasts. Some of the most enjoyed water sports available at this spectacular white-sand beach are parasailing, paragliding, windsurfing, and scuba diving. 

4. Calangute Beach: Calangute Beach happens to be the primary destination for experiencing water activities in the state of Goa. Whether you’re interested in riding the waves, flying with a panoramic sight of the mesmerizing coastline, or plunging into the tranquilizing water – this beach facilitates all of it. Some of the thrilling and exciting water sports available at Calangute Beach are Parasailing, Water Surfing, Banana Boat Riding, Jet-Skiing, WindSurfing, Water-Scooter Riding, and Kayaking.  

5. Colva Beach: No doubt Colva Beach has achieved more popularity for its silver-white sand, soothing sea breeze, and tranquilizing waves. However, this beach would not disappoint you if you are interested in experiencing some soul-stirring activities. Colva Beach offers its visitors the scope to indulge in a wide range of amazingly thrilling activities such as speed boat riding, motorboat riding, parasailing, banana boat riding, paragliding, and jet-skiing.

6. Mobor Beach: Set amidst the Arabian Sea and Assolna River Estuary, Mobor Beach features huge waves that make way for visitors to carry out exciting water sports. Adventure junkies visiting this beach usually engage in Ringo Rides, Kayaking, Windsurfing, Speed Boat Rides, Water Skiing, Winch-Boat Parasailing, and Banana Boat Rides. Visitors who want to experience profound adventure can dive deeper into the clear waters and enjoy swimming with dolphins.

7. Dona Paula Beach: Positioned at the point where Mandovi and Zuari rivers unite with the Arabian Sea, the world-famous Dona Paula is an absolutely outstanding spot for satisfying your unfathomable adrenaline rush. From Toboggan Ski-Biscuiting and harpoon fishing to yachting and ski-bobbing – this beach has all the exhilarating water activities to add thrill, fun, and adventure to your Goa trip.

8. Majorda Beach: Goa’s Majorda Beach happens to be the perfect destination for travelers who want to glide over water and catch a wave. This beach is known as a go-to hub for experiencing Banana Boat Ride and Jet-Skiing in the state.

1. Flea Market Baga And Anjuna; Baga Flea Market is very popular among the travelers for its broad spectrum of stalls and shakes offering everything including clothes, bric-a-brac, jewelry, trinkets, and handicrafts. The flamboyant market also houses trendy salons, palmists, and card readers that form one of the important attractions of the place. 

2. Chapora Fish Market; As Chapora is a renowned fishing village in Goa, you cannot wish for a better place to buy fresh fish than Chapora Fish Market.  Here, you can get umpteen varieties of Goan fish at the most affordable rates to satisfy your cravings for seafood.Tiger prawns, pomfrets, king prawns, crabs, mussels, and lobsters are among the recommended items to buy at Chapora Fish Market.

3. Tibetan Market: Tibetan Market at Calangute – Baga Road is one of the most interesting markets of Goa offering umpteen varieties of products from various parts of India. The market exhibits a plethora of small stalls by Kashmiris, Tibetan refugees, and locals. Some of the important items that tourists love to shop for at Tibetan Market include art pieces, precious stones, wall hangings, T-shirts, silver artefacts, and jewelry.   

4. Mapusa's Friday Market: While Mapusa’s main market remains open daily, its enticing flea market is set up only on Fridays. Mapusa’s Friday Market usually attracts tourists who want to shop for local Goan goods. The most recommended items to buy at the Friday flea market of Mapusa are – cashews, Goan sausages, spices, Feni, earthen pots, fresh fish, and organic food.

5. Anjuna's Wednesday Flea Market: Set up every Wednesday, Arjuna's bustling flea market is a paradise for every bohemian fashion freak. This super lively market offers wooden wares and handicrafts from Tibetan craftsmen, quirky jewelry, Kashmiri décor, wall hangings, and beach frocks.  

6. Calangute Market Square: Calangute Market Square generally stays open only on Saturdays and is popular for its Kashmiri and Tibetan sections. Important items sold at this flea market include hand-made raw wood statues, metallic jewelry, carpets, and cotton and silk garments.  

7. Saturday Night Bazaar at Arpora: Arpora’s Saturday Night Bazaar is generally set up during the peak season of Goa i.e. from November to February. Known for its colorful stops, fire dancers, global food stalls, and live music, this flea market forms a huge attraction when it comes to shopping in Goa. Offering goods from every corner of the world, Arpora Saturday Night Market propels shopaholics, foodies, and drink lovers.

1. Chill at the beach shacks: It is a well-known fact that beach shacks form a major attraction of Goa. During the peak season, you can see shacks set up at all the popular beaches of the state. While many of these shacks run as restaurants and cafes, some of them operate as nightclubs that remain open until 5 AM. So, if you’re a party animal looking for an amazing nightlife experience in Goa, go chill at the lively beach shacks.

2. Try your luck at the casinos: Gambling at the local casinos is a recommended activity for every adult visiting Goa. The Goan casinos have fascinating slot machines and conduct super exciting poker games. These casinos get a huge crowd during the late evening hours, making gambling a nightlife culture in the state.  

3. Cruising at night: Goa is counted among the handful of destinations in the country where people can experience partying on a luxury cruise. Many ferries at various rivers host parties for the guests, serving good food and tempting alcoholic beverages. Night cruising usually starts from 7 PM and the guests enjoy dancing to loud music late into the evening.

4. Party hard in the discos and clubs: In addition to its beaches and shacks, Goa is also famous for its fascinating nightclubs. You can witness popular clubs and discos brimming with crazy party animals who enjoy dancing and screaming all night. Renowned DJs from both India and abroad come to these nightclubs to perform and entertain the party lovers. 

5. Bars and pubs for the ones who wish to get high: Travelers who are very serious about their alcoholic beverages will simply love the pub and bar scene in Goa. From the beach bars to the splendid pubs in top cities like Panaji and Mapusa, there are a plethora of excellent places that serve top-class alcoholic drinks. 

6. Night Flea markets for the shopaholics: The night flea markets at Goa form an exciting part of the nightlife trend of the place. Ornate with colorful lights and packed with active crowds, these markets look totally lively during the night. One can find both goods as well as food stalls here, selling out exciting local items. 

7. Silent Noise Parties: One of the unique attractions in Goa is its tempting headphone parties or noiseless parties. Each party lover is supplied with a pair of Bluetooth headphones, which is connected to the music. Besides not disturbing the neighborhood, such partying style also gives you control over the volume and DJ selection. 

8. Star gazing all night long: Stargazing is an amazing night activity to enjoy in Goa. Although this activity is not possible in North Goa due to lights and pollution, yet you can experience stargazing at certain places in South Goa including Agonda and Cavelossim.

1. Club Cubana
Lying atop Arpora Hills, Club Cubana is counted among the liveliest nightclubs in the state of Goa. Known popularly for its open-air bar and multi-level and neon-lit dance floors, this flamboyant club attracts all the party animals looking for a crazy nightlife. A hit destination among both Indian and international travelers, this club also has an area reserved for ladies only. 

Cost for two pax at Club Cubana is approximately INR 2,500.  

2. Club LPK (Love Passion Karma)
Lying alongside River Nerul, Club LPK (Love Passion Karma) happens to be an amazing waterfront nightclub. Guests visiting this club love to shake a leg to some latest Bollywood numbers and relish some drool-worthy cocktails. One of the specialties of this Goan nightclub is that it allows women free of cost entry. 

Cost for two at Club LPK (Love Passion Karma) is approximately INR 1,500.  

3. Sin Q
Featuring a nightclub and a poolside lounge, SinQ is popular for its amazing DJs who are capable enough for playing some good mix of songs. The super lively nightlife at this club is sure to entice you to get up from your seat and groove on the huge dance floor. An amazing poolside deck and an adequately stocked bar form the other major attractions of this Goan nightclub. 

Cost for two pax at Sin Q is approximately INR 1,800.  

4. Leopard Valley
Lying in a beautiful valley amidst Palolem and Agonda, Leopard Valley is visited for its crazy music and 3D laser shows. This isolated outdoor nightclub is no less than a treat to the eyes. 

The cover charge at Leopard Valley is around INR 600. 

5. Cohiba
Featuring excellent signature cocktails, fusion cuisine, and live music programmes, Cohiba is a super charming nightclub. The place gets crowded by 9pm and once the mood is set, there is no stop to the crazy music and energetic dance.  

Cost for two pax at Cohiba is approximately INR 1,500.  

6. Cafe Mambos
Known popularly for its different theme nights and loud music, Café Mambos hosts many International and Indian DJS. Featuring a spacious dance floor and a comfortable lounge, this nightclub is suitable for partying all night. 

Cost for two pax at Café Mambos is approximately INR 1,500.  

7. Red Square
Located at a proximate distance to Baga Beach, Red Square happens to be a very popular nightclub in North Goa. This place is popular for its widespread cocktail menu and lip-smacking starters that go really well with the drinks.

1. Chorao Island
Flaunting muddy pathways, dainty cottages, and an old-world beauty, Chorao Island happens to be the biggest among the seventeen islands in Goa. The island manifests a Portuguese touch with the unique architecture and engineering of its old churches, dilapidated buildings, and solitary graveyards. Known popularly for its rich biodiversity, the place boasts flourishing mangrove forests and diverse varieties of fauna and flora.  

The major attractions at Chorao Island include Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Chorao Village, St. Bartholomew Church, and Bhagwati Temple. 

2. Grande Island
Grande Island is popular all over the world as the best hub for trying scuba diving and snorkeling in Goa. Lying just off Vasco De Gama coast, this island mainly lures adventure enthusiasts. Some of the famous attractions of Grande Island include UmmaGumma Reef, Suzy's wreck, Sail Rock, and Davy Jones Locker.

3. Divar Island
Tucked cozily amidst dense woods, Divar Island is the definition of virgin beauty, tranquility, and serenity. Away from Goa’s loud party culture, this place offers a peaceful environment with its conventional churches and lush paddy fields. Some of the important places to visit at Divar Island are Piedade, Sao Matia, and Naroa. 

4. Sao Jacinto Island
Known as the most exquisite island in Goa, San Jacinto is counted among the state’s tiniest islands. This tranquilizing destination is popular across the globe for its beautiful scenic views, which lures visitors to take a boat ride or romantic walk across the island’s perimeter. Away from commercialization, Sao Jacinto Island is the best hidden secret of Goa, manifesting charm and purity. 

5. Conco Island or Monkey Island
Located near South Goa’s Agonda Beach, Conco Island is counted among the most frequented to islands in the state. This lush green destination of 5 acres is also called Money Island as it was home to monkeys in the bygone times. Conco Island forms the perfect hub for picnicking, swimming, surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.