goa tourism now

• Thailand Lantern Festival
• Indonesia(Bali)
• South Korea
• China (HK, Taiwan)
• Itinerary Ideas
• Asia Highlights Travel Reviews
• Thailand Travel Reviews
• Vietnam Travel Reviews
• Cambodia Travel Reviews
• Japan Travel Reviews
• Myanmar Travel Reviews
• China Travel Reviews

Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Goa & Rainy Season (2024/2025)

Goa is a popular beach destination in India. As it is affected by the monsoon from June to October, the best times to visit Goa are from November to April with less rain and better weather.

The Best Times to Visit Goa

The worst time to visit goa, monthly weather in goa, monsoon season in goa (june to october), dry season in goa (november to february), hot season in goa (march to may).

While the best times to visit Goa are from November to April weatherwise, this can depend on your Goa holiday purposes, budget, and weather preferences.

For the finest weather conditions , sightseeing experiences, and water activity conditions, December to February is the best period. You can expect a prefect beach time with sunny, dry, and warm weather.

For the best times to visit Goa for your honeymoon or family trip , consider November to early December and March to April. These are times with relatively few tourists and good weather. Of course, December to February is also a great time if you don't mind crowds.

You can expect lower prices from May to October, which is the rainy season, with 30–50% off offered by many hotels and flights.

If you are thinking about an India trip, just contact us and we would be glad to share advice on the perfect timings and activities for you.

Get inspiration from our itinerary ideas for 10 days , and  2 weeks  or contact us to tailor-make one just for you!

For a good travel experience, June to August is best avoided, as these months see extremely heavy rain (0.5–1 meters of rain per month!) with less than 4 hours of sunshine per day and averaging 20 rainy days each month. Torrential rain storms are accompanied by strong winds.

Many attractions like national parks and restaurants will close during this period.

If you want a favorable price and don't want to be affected so much by the rains, you may consider traveling in May, September, and October, which are at the transition months of the monsoon with only moderate to high rainfall and around 10 days of rain per month.

Frequent showers and occasional hurricanes hit Goa during its monsoon season. June to August suffer huge quantities rainfall, and June/July is the peak.

The abundant rainfall makes the Dudhsagar Waterfalls flow at their most spectacular. In June, there will be one of the important festivals in Goa — Sao Joao Festival. People jump into streams, wells, and ponds, which signifies the happiness of St John the Baptist when Jesus was born, and they pray for a good monsoon and harvest.

The rainy season in Goa might discourage some people from going on holiday there, but during this period, Goa is relatively cool at 29°C (84°F) compared to the 35°C (95°F) temperatures in other parts of India, so many locals choose to escape the heat there.

Lower prices, few tourists, and lush shades of green are the advantages of traveling in Goa in the monsoon if you don't mind the disruption of your plans by storms. What you should note is that on heavy rainy days with strong winds, some attractions and restaurants close.

Goa's dry season features comfortable summer temperatures and clear, sunny weather. It is the best time of the year to visit Goa.

The perfect weather is suitable to for all kinds of sightseeing and activities, like swimming, snorkeling, hiking, photography, and more.

In Christmas and New Year, Goa will be embraced by a strong festival atmosphere. The sound of carols echoes from the walls of the churches. Parties on the beach and bars, music, and fireworks are also indispensable elements of the celebrations.

Accordingly, the perfect weather brings a rise in prices. Accommodation is in high demand, especially from late December to February. If you are planning a trip in this peak season, it is better to book one or two months in advance.

Get some inspiration about  How to Plan an Affordable Luxury Trip to India .

In Goa's hot season, you can expect less crowding than during the dry season and rainless weather until late May. This is also a good time to visit Goa, especially between March and April.

Most of the time is suitable for water activities, sunbathing, and sightseeing. At the end of May there is some monsoon influence, but not much.

One of Goa's biggest festivals, Shigmo Festival (Goa's version of Holi) falls in March or April. The processions with traditional Goan dances and modern floats are the highlight.

You can expect reasonable prices during this period. Heat averaging 33°C (91°F) in the middle of the day is an unavoidable element of the hot season. Remember to bring some sun protection. It could be a good idea to wait to go out until after 3 or 4 pm.

You Might Like to Read

• Best (and Worst) Times to Visit India 2024, Best Places to Go in Each Month
• Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Delhi & Where to Go
• Best Times to Visit the Taj Mahal: Expert Tips in 2024
• Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Varanasi & Rainy Season

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Touring India with Us

Discover India through our unique tours with award-winning guides and 1:1 help from a dedicated India expert every step of the way.

Tell us your interests and needs , and we will create a wonderful trip for you. We are looking forward to helping you discover you authentic and colorful India.

• 11-Day India Highlights and Goa Honeymoon Trip
• 12-Day Family Holiday in India
• More India tours

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 7-Day India Golden Triangle Tour
• 9-Day India Tiger Safari and Golden Triangle Tour
• 14-Day India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour
• 11-Day India and Nepal Tour
• India Itineraries 2024: from 5 Days to 1 Month
• 2 Weeks in India 2024/2025: Top 4 Itineraries
• How to Plan Your First Trip to India 2024/2025
• Plan an Awesome Trip to India, Bhutan and Nepal (6 Tips)
• Weather in India in January 2025 & Best Places for First Visits
• Weather in India in February 2025 & Best Places for First Visits
• Weather in India in March 2024 & Best Places for First Visits
• Weather in India in April 2025 & Tips for First Visits
• Weather in India in May 2024 & Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in India in June 2024: Temperatures & Places to Visit
• Weather in India in July 2024: Temperatures & Places to Visit
• Weather in India in August 2024: Temperatures & Places to Visit
• September Weather in India & Tips (Places+Crowds) 2024
• October Weather in India & Tips (Places+Crowds) 2024
• Weather in India in November 2024 & Tips for First Visits
• Weather in India in December 2024 & Tips for First Visits

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

Sorry, we couldn't find anything that matches your search.

Destination

Famous Places to Explore in Hyderabad

A vibrant city with the imposing...

Raipur Tourist Places | Best Place to Visit

The stronghold of several erstwhile...

Declared as India's first UNESCO World...

Ananthagiri

The verdant Ananthagiri Hills is...

Located on the banks of River Godavari,...

Situated around 40 km from Raipur,...

Boasting the famous Chand Baori...

Albert Hall Museum

A magnificent building built in...

2023. The year of India’s G20...

Land of sun, sand and spices

• Destinations

Explore Goa city and its best places to visit

The pocket-sized paradise of Goa is a traveller's dream. Sun, sea, sand, spices, spirituality and seafood, along with a balmy weather, call to the soul of trekkers, backpackers, nature lovers and those who simply want to languish in its slow-paced and relaxed vibes. Located by the glistening waters of the Arabian Sea on India’s western coast, the state of Goa is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, rich culture and pristine natural beauty. Formerly a Portuguese colony, Goa offers travellers a chance to experience a unique blend of sandy shores, forests, monuments and delectable cuisine, attracting tourists across age groups.

Its landscape is dotted with a vast range of accommodation options, ranging from ultra-luxurious resorts and boutique hotels to youth hostels, budget-friendly guest houses and private, rentable spaces. These aspects, and more, make Goa a holiday hotspot for large families, solo travellers, backpackers and every other kind of traveller. During winter, its festive ambience is at its peak, while in summers, it boasts lovely weather that’s perfect for a splash in the sea. Monsoon spreads lush greenery across its verdant vistas, peppered with gorgeous waterfalls, making it a trekker’s paradise. Photography enthusiasts, culture buffs, history lovers and night birds – there's something for everyone in the sunshine state. Natural beauty is often said to inspire creativity, and Goa has been home to several gifted artists. Padma Vibhushan, Mario Miranda, the renowned cartoonist and illustrator, spent years creating several of his signature artworks here. Even today, he is best known for his pieces depicting life in a Goan village. Celebrated fashion designer Wendell Rodricks, too, is based out of this beautiful state.

As one of the smallest states in India in terms of geographical extent, Goa packs a vast spectrum of cultural experiences. Portuguese, Maharashtrian and Konkani influences are evident in language, food, architecture, dress and dance. Several festivals are celebrated here that bear testimony to its multi-cultural glory. Such are the charms of Goa that even film-makers and writers have found picture-perfect locations here. Goa has been the backdrop of numerous Indian movies, which have captured its spirit as a haven of unforgettable experiences.

* This embed is a third party content and available in English only.

Attractions

The legacy of goa through its attractions, basilica of bom jesus.

Probably the most famous church in Goa and one of the most revered by Christians globally, the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa is famed for housing the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier. This complex, along with some other churches of Old Goa,...

Fort Aguada

Built to defend and protect Old Goa from potential invasions, Fort...

Church of St Francis of Assisi

Located in the main square of Old Goa, the Church of St Francis of...

Mahalasa Temple

Situated in the village of Mardol, about 22 km from the state...

Probably the most famous church in Goa and one of the most revered by...

Immersive Experience

Food and Cuisine

Also Explore

Things to do

Churches of Goa

Join The Festivities In Goa

Heritage Sites To Visit In Goa

How to get there

Goa’s Dabolim Airport is located about 25 km from its capital, Panaji. Daily flights connect it to Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kolkata.

Conveniently connected by a wide network of roads and highways to Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru and Ernakulum, Goa has three major bus stops: Panaji, Madgaon and Vasco Da Gama.

Goa is serviced by Madgaon railway station, which is connected by regular rail services to Mumbai, Pune and New Delhi.

We use cookies to ensure that you have the best experience on our website. Continued use of the website would be assumed to be an acceptance of these conditions.

Sign up to our newsletter to receive exciting content about the tourism destinations in India.

Thank you for subscribing! Explore India with us.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Los Angeles

The 13 best things to do in Goa

Whether you’re looking for beaches, parties or masses of culture, the best things to do in Goa have you covered

Photograph: Shutterstock

The beautiful Goa is not just the place to admire some jaw-dropping sunsets on sandy beaches (though it does that very, very well), it also holds the title of India ’s party capital. Yep, we know you’re visiting Goa with one or both of those two reasons in mind, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that the southwestern state is home to much, much more than beach bars. 

Goa is also steeped in history – a slow stroll through the state will open your eyes to ancient buildings with Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic or Portuguese origins, and the food reflects these rich cultures too. Sample delicious seafood, curry and more, and then simply decide to take a nap in a hammock on the beach. You’re in Goa, after all. And whenever you feel like seeing the sights, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Goa.   

RECOMMENDED:

🏖️ Check out the best beaches in Goa 🕺 And here are the 9 top spots for nightlife in Goa 🏨 Discover the  best hotels in Goa

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Fun things to do in Goa

1.  dudhsagar falls.

What is it?  It is simply not a trip to Goa without a visit to the Dudhsagar Falls. The name literally translates to ‘sea of milk’, which makes sense when you see it. The waterfall is 310 metres high and found deep within the Western Ghat Mountains, with three streams and four tiers. A must see. 

Why go?  The waterfall is the cherry on top of an already brilliant treck through the forest (one of South India’s most popular for intermediate to advanced level hikers). Plus if you don’t fancy the hike, you can still see the views getting there by car. 

2.  Fontainhas

What is it? Fontainhas is the oldest of Goa’s well-preserved Portuguese quarters. A UNESCO certified heritage zone, it is dotted with narrow streets that run between colourful, Portuguese-style villas dating to the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

Why go? A stroll through this neighbourhood is an essential Goa experience. The Chapel of Saint Sebastian, built in 1880, is a good point to pause, ponder and snap some Insta-friendly shots.

3.  Basilica of Bom Jesus

What is it? Built in 1605, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is the most known among Goa’s churches. It’s mostly famous for holding the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, revered as the ‘Apostle of the Indes’ among Roman Catholics worldwide.

Why go? It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a grand reminder of Goa’s rich religious traditions. The basilica is particularly popular for its architecture, featuring an ornate main altar, and several spectacularly carved statues, doors, and columns. There’s also a modern art gallery inside, featuring over 30 late twentieth-century paintings.

4.  Sahakari Spice Farm

What is it? An impressive range of spices, fruits, medicinal trees and herbs are grown at this lush green plantation spread over 130 acres.

Why go? Sahakari is lined with seemingly endless rows of India’s most cherished spices including turmeric, cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon, as well as a decent range of fruits such as papaya and jackfruit. You’ll get to learn about their nutritional qualities and even pick and taste a few samples. Make sure to wrap your day at the in-house restaurant for a delicious meal that puts the best of spices to use.

5.  Arpora Saturday Night Bazaar

What is it? This bustling night market comes to life every Saturday evening at 6 pm. It’s partly a large, open-air party with live music concerts and bars adding a great atmosphere to the score of stalls trading in goods of all sorts – cheap souvenirs, designer clothing, handicrafts, freshly ground spices and more.

Why go? Most of Goa’s finest boutique designers, restaurants and bars bring their best to you here, letting you sample a whole range of essential Goan experiences in a single night. Make sure to browse handcrafted jewellery at the Cocoroots and Cheshire Cat kiosks, stop for shawarma from Thalassa or for falafel from Janet & Johns, and wrap your evening at Boutique House Bar located within the market.

6.  Se Cathedral

What is it? Se Cathedral is considered to be the largest church in Asia. It’s also one of Goa’s oldest and has been in service since 1640, though construction on the structure began almost a century before that.

Why go? It’s among Goa’s most serene and atmospheric cathedrals, with a plain white façade and seated atop stretches of well-maintained green lawns. The church had two towers when it was first built, and while one collapsed in 1776, the other is well known today for housing a large bell known as the Golden Bell.

7.  Singbal’s Book House

What is it? Housed in a heritage building at the intersection of five roads in Panaji, this bookstore dating to 1936 is one of Goa’s oldest.

Why go? Singbal’s is a local legend. The space itself may not seem that impressive at first look; it’s deceptively small, with hundreds of books and magazines crammed into congested shelves. But with some patient browsing, you can uncover some rare gems. It is particularly well-stocked in travel and Goan history guides.

8.  Vagator Beach

What is it? A beach for those who like a bit of peace, but not isolation.

Why go? While it's not exactly deserted, Vagator makes for a pleasant beach to spend an afternoon (or even a few days). Umbrellas and loungers line the shore and restaurant staff will bring food and drink directly to you if you want. Other tourists come here too, but it's not a wild party beach. Nearby you can do a bit of sightseeing at Chapora Fort.

9.  Big Foot Cross Museum

What is it? This quirky museum houses a collection of over 1,500 Christian crosses gathered from around the world. It is located by the sprawling compounds of Ancestral Goa, an educational project which attempts to recreate a typical Goan village from 100 years ago.

Why go? If you’re a history or art buff, then you’ll likely be fascinated by the sheer variety of crosses found here. It’s a unique testament to Goa’s eccentric heritage. Right by the museum is a handicrafts fair which is also well worth visiting.

10.  Artjuna Garden Café and Lifestyle Shop

What is it? Housed in an old Portuguese villa, this café specialising in health food comes with a sprawling garden full of hammocks and mango trees. The attached lifestyle shop offers handcrafted jewellery and a selection of interesting souvenirs.

Why go? Artjuna is the sort of laid-back, upbeat space that’s quintessential Goa to many folks. It’s ideal if you’re seeking community; Artjuna is always drawing fun crowds with frequent movie nights and other fun events. It’s also a great place to unwind solo with a green smoothie and a book, which you can borrow from their in-house library.

11.  Mahadeva Temple, Tambdi Surla

What is it? This twelfth-century temple is Goa’s oldest. It’s known for having survived the Goa Inquisition possibly due to its location within the secluded forests of the Western Ghat Mountains.

Why go? Dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, this stone temple is remarkably quaint. It’s a treat for architecture lovers, featuring several intricately carved basalt stone pillars and sculptures that show mythological figures as well as symbols traced to a local dynasty, the Kadambas, who ruled the area between the tenth and fourteenth centuries.

12.  Anjuna Flea Market

What is it? This bustling weekly market was founded as a hippie exchange over three decades ago, where travellers short of money could barter or sell possessions. Today you’ll find vendors from around the country trading in goods ranging from pashmina textiles and terracotta sculptures to electronics.

Why go? It’s a paradise for thrift shopping, and arguably Goa’s best flea market. It’s also one of its most scenic, with pop-up stores taking up a considerable stretch of the beach. The market is understandably closed temporarily during the pandemic but expects to return to colourful form in the near future. 

13.  Gunpowder

What is it? Easily one of Goa’s best restaurants. It serves hearty dishes from across India’s southern coast in a quirky and cheerfully colourful setting.

Why go? You can’t go wrong with a meal here. Try their legendary beef fry or the masala prawn paired with appams – a type of pancake made with fermented rice batter in the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. They have plenty of delicious cocktails to go with your food too, often with generous doses of Feni, Goa’s very own liquor.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Global Gallivanting

My complete goa travel guide: insider’s tips for 2024.

There’s many Goa travel guides out there, but my insider’s guide to Goa has everything you need to know to plan your Goa holiday – I’ve been living here for over 10 years since 2015 , so I know my way around more than most!

Goa changes quickly, new places open and close every season, so I have updated this post for 2024 with all the latest information. After being closed during Covid, India is now fully open for tourism, and last season was busier than ever so its worthwhile booking ahead.

My Goa Travel Guide

In this Goa guide I’ll go through everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Goa. From when to visit, where to stay and how to get to Goa, to insiders tips on the best beaches and places to visit, things to do, restaurants, nightlife and much more.

Why Visit Goa

Goa is India’s smallest state, famous for it’s laid back lifestyle, over 101 km of sandy tropical beaches, colourful markets and legendary nightlife all infused with a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese culture.

Goa first became popular in the days of the hippie trail and has now become India’s most popular tourist destination, Goa attracts many domestic Indian tourists as well as travellers from all over the world.

Sadly, most tourists haven’t read a Goa travel guide so they don’t explore beyond the beaches and parties. This is a huge shame because Goa offers so much more to explore, from historic churches and forts to spice plantations, waterfalls and natural beauty spots.

There really is nowhere else quite like Goa and with everything from luxury resorts to cute beach huts , wild nightclubs to mellow yoga retreats – it’s not surprising that so many people love Goa. 

Read More Goa Blog Posts: Why I Love and Live in Goa

My Insider’s Guide to Goa

Goa is a much bigger and more diverse state than most tourists realise. So for the best experience it’s really worth doing a bit of research and reading some a Goa travel guides and some Goa blogs like this when planning your trip, especially if it’s your first time in Goa.

I fell totally in love with Goa almost 10 years ago now and have spent many years living here, exploring every beach and corner of this beautiful state.

I’ve put together all my insider’s Goa travel tips into this Goa travel guide, from the best beaches, parties, hotels and places to visit to the best places to stay, best time to visit and much more.

I’ve tried to keep this Goa travel guide concise so if you want to know more click on the links for the full article on each topic

The Best Time to Visit Goa

When planning a trip to Goa, one of the most important things to consider is when to visit.

The best time to visit Goa is in the main tourist season in Goa runs from November – March when the weather is sunny, dry and cool (by Indian standards) and perfect for sightseeing, enjoying the beaches and water sports and the nightlife is buzzing.

Goa is one of the best places to spend Christmas and New Year. The churches are decorated for the festive season and it’s the best time to visit Goa for nightlife as there are so many parties around New Year and festivals like Sunburn.

This is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit Goa. Don’t come to Goa around New Year without booking your accommodation well in advance as everywhere gets fully booked!

Another great time to visit Goa is for the Carnival ! Join in with Goa’s biggest party as the streets of the capital Panjim (Panaji) come alive with a riot of colour and noise in mid February before the beginning of lent.

In April and May, the tourism season starts to wind down and prices drop. Goa is still dry but is almost unbearably hot, mangoes and cashews fall from the trees and the locals eagerly await the arrival of the rain.

Monsoon in Goa

No Goa travel guide would be complete without mentioning Goa in monsoon – visiting in the rainy season is a totally different Goa expereince.

The monsoon rains arrive in June and continue until September/ October and marks the off season in Goa. Many places including open air venues, beach shacks, parties, markets and beach huts close down for the rainy season. But every year more and more facilities remain open.

In many ways Goa is at it’s most beautiful in the monsoon season, although the rough seas mean its dangerous to swim or do water sports. The Sao Joao Festival in June is a fun and unique experience. But June and July see the heaviest rain with torrential downpours that can last for days, frequent power outages and flooded roads.

The best time to visit Goa in monsoon is from August to October as the rain becomes less heavy. Enjoy the lush greenery, waterfalls, fewer crowds and lower prices. Just don’t expect everything to be open and, apart from Independence Day parties , don’t expect a wild nightlife scene in the off season.

Read more about visiting Goa in monsoon

• Where to Stay in Goa

Deciding where to stay in Goa is really important as each beach, city and area has a different vibe and will appeal to different types of travellers.

Whether you’re looking to party the night away with friends, take a romantic couples trip or a family friendly holiday you can find the perfect place to stay in Goa.

There’s a big variety of accommodation in Goa, from luxury resorts, private villas and yoga retreats to mid range and budget hotels, backpacker hostels and beach huts.

But first you need to decide where to stay in Goa. That’s the hard part! My advice is to do read some Goa travel guides and do some research into the different places Then you can find the best hotel for you in your chosen location.

I made this map of Goa to help you see where the most popular beaches and towns are located in relation to Dabolim airport (GOI) and the new Mopa airport (GOX) and Madgaon/Margao train station.

The Best Beaches and Places to Stay in Goa

The best places to stay in Goa are on the beaches and there’s no shortage of choice from busy, party beaches in North Goa to long, quiet stretches of sand in South Goa. Whether you want to stay in a Goa beach resort or a basic beach hut, staying on the beach is the best way to experience Goa and is possible whatever your budget.

No Goa trip is complete without spending a blissful day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the warm Arabian sea, enjoying the water sports, eating Goan fish curry in the beach shacks and watching a spectacular sunset.

To help you find the perfect beach in Goa for you, here’s a quick round up of the best beaches in Goa and the best hotels and places to stay there. 

Deciding where to stay is probably the most important section of my guide to Goa so check out my comprehensive blog post on where to stay in Goa if you need more info.

The North is the busiest area in Goa where most of the attractions, water sports, nightlife, restaurants, markets, shops and hotels are.

The long, sandy stretch of Baga Beach, Calangute Beach and Candolim Beach are the busiest and most popular beaches in Goa with plenty of activities and beach shacks. You can try all sorts of water sports like jet skiing, parasailing and banana boat rides. 

Baga and Calangute are home to the lively pubs and clubs on infamous Tito’s Lane and attractions like the Snow Park. This area is good for budget and mid range travellers and has the best range of water sports, although the beaches can get pretty crowded in the peak tourist season.

Candolim lies under the shadow of Fort Aguada and is a more upmarket choice and less crowded but still offers easy access to all the attractions which makes it one of the best places to stay in Goa.

Anjuna Beach and Vagator Beach have smaller, more rocky beaches but are good for nightlife and where you’ll find Chapora Fort, Anjuna flea market and the infamous Goa psytrance parties and raves as well as other parties to suit all musical tastes and accommodation to suit all budgets.

In the far north are quieter upcoming Morjim Beach, Ashvem Beach, Mandrem Beach and Arambol Beach. Morjim Beach and Ashvem Beach are wide, natural beaches, once a breeding spot for rare olive ridley turtles, which are now becoming increasingly popular with the influx of new techno nightclubs, trendy boutiques and luxury accommodation.

Mandrem Beach and Arambol Beach are laid back, serene long stretches of sand with mostly budget accommodation for backpackers, hippies and yoga types. Mandrem is very quiet and the nightlife on Arambol Beach is more drum circles and jams than full on parties.

Best Places to Stay in North Goa

The taj fort aguada , candolim beach.

A luxury 5 star beach resort located in the most picturesque spot on Candolim Beach underneath Fort Aguada with stunning views over the beach.

Colourful, heritage style luxury villas are nestled in tropical gardens complete with a huge swimming pool, numerous eateries and world class hospitality. 

The resort is situated on an uncrowded part of Candolim beach but still offers easy access to explore all the action in Baga and Calangute.

Cavala Seaside Resort , Baga Beach

If your budget doesn’t stretch to the Taj then consider the Cavala Seaside Resort, a great mid range resort in a lovely heritage building just 3 minutes walk from popular Baga Beach. 

The resort has spacious and clean AC rooms, a swimming pool surrounded by tropical greenery and an excellent multi cuisine restaurant which hosts live music nights.

Cavala is only 5 minutes drive from Tito’s Lane and is also close to the nightlife in Anjuna and Vagator. 

South Goa is quieter and less developed with long, uncrowded beaches, luxury resorts and yoga retreats.

Palolem beach is one of most beautiful beaches in Goa . A white crescent beach fringed by palm trees and colourful beach huts with calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming.

The most developed beaches in South Goa are Colva beach and Varca beach. These are good places to stay with family and have plenty of budget and mid range hotels and amenities.

Majorda beach and Cavelossim beach are home to some of the finest luxury beach resorts in Goa and offer a real escape from it all. Agonda beach is also a good choice for beautiful beach front huts and is quieter than popular Palolem.

Best Places to Stay in South Goa

Alila diwa resort, majorda beach.

This elegant, Bali inspired, 5 star beach resort in Majorda has 3 excellent dining options, 2 bars, an Ayurvedic spa and luxurious contemporary rooms. 

The Alila Diwa is located right on Majorda Beach, one of the quietest and cleanest beaches in Goa, and is perfect for a peaceful stay only 30 mins drive from the airport.  

The highlight is the stunning tiered infinity pool that overlooks the green paddy fields. Stay in the Diwa Club rooms for the ultimate luxury and privacy.

Round Cube Beach Bungalows , Palolem Beach

Wooden cottages and beach huts located right on the beachfront of gorgeous Palolem Beach – the most beautiful beach in Goa. 

There’s a variety of rooms available all with AC and private attached bathrooms. The beach facing cottages, where you can soak up the ocean views and sunsets right from your room and balcony, sell out fast. 

There’s also cheaper colourful cottages just behind among the palm groves but whichever you choose, a dip in the ocean is still just a few steps from your beach hut.

Round Cube also has its own beachfront multi cuisine restaurant and bar where you can enjoy sunset cocktails and romantic candlelight dinners on the beach.

Panaji City (Panjim)

Even though Goa is most often thought of as a beach holiday destination, no guide to Goa would be complete without mentioning Panaji city, still normally referred to by its old name of Panjim, the state capital city of Goa.

While it’s not a beach resort it does have a lovely riverside setting, where you’ll find Goa’s floating casinos and river cruises, and it’s super close to Miramar Beach so if you’re looking to stay on the beach while exploring the culture of the city, the surprisingly uncrowded Miramar beach is ideal. 

Located in the middle of Goa, Panjim is a good base for culture, history and nature lovers as there’s a handy hop on hop off tourist bus that connects Panaji with Old Goa and the spice plantations, wildlife sanctuaries and waterfalls. It’s also not far from Goa international airport.

Take a stroll around Fontainhas, the colourful, old Latin Quarter, and visit the Immaculate Conception Church then try some traditional Goan cuisine and even Portuguese food in the restaurants and cafes.

Best Places to Stay in Panjim City

Vivanta goa, panaji.

The best modern luxury hotel centrally located in the city center of Panaji. The hotel offers a stunning rooftop swimming pool and views of the Mandovi River and Altinho. 

The Vivanta is within easy walking distance to both the riverside and the old latin quarter and also boasts a spa, 24 hour gym, tour desk, several great eating options and a cocktail bar.

Welcom Heritage Panjim Inn, Fontainhas

Nestled in the heart of historic Fontainhas, staying at Panjim Inn will immerse you in history. 

This charming heritage hotel offers tastefully refurbished and comfortable rooms that retain their historic character, features and furnishings.  Many are complete with four poster beds and private balconies. 

The Verandah Restaurant serves local and European cuisine and is a lovely place to sit and watch the world go by. Also check out Panjim Pousada , another great heritage hotel. 

There’s also many budget hotels and guesthouses in Goa where you can find a basic room for 1000 – 2000 INR but many are not available to book online. If you’re visiting Goa in the peak season I’d recommend booking online in advance before you come to avoid stress and disappointment of trying to find a room when you arrive.

There’s too many beaches and hotels in Goa to mention them all in this Goa travel guide. So check out my post on where to stay in Goa for more tips.

The Best Places to Visit in Goa

From beautiful beaches and colourful markets, buzzing parties to serene yoga retreats, historic churches, temples and forts, spice plantations, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries.

There’s so many places to visit and so many things to do in Goa that you probably won’t be able to fit it all in to just one trip. That’s why many people, like me, fall in love with Goa and return every year.

There are simply too many places to mention in this quick Goa travel guide, so I’ll summarise the most popular places to visit in Goa for sightseeing and then you can check out this post for more.

The Best Places to Visit in Goa for History, Culture and Sightseeing

Fontainhas, panjim’s latin quarter.

Panjim (Panaji) is not visited by as many tourists as the beaches are but no Goa travel guide would be complete without a mention of the states pretty capital city!

Panjim is a delight to explore with it’s picturesque setting on the Mandovi river, flamboyant churches and colourful Portuguese architecture. One of Goa’s most iconic and famous sights is the elaborate white Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

Don’t miss exploring the lanes of Fontainhas , the atmospheric old Latin quarter, which is full of colourful Portuguese colonial buildings, churches, cafes, bars, goan restaurants and the Gitanjali art gallery.

The best way to explore Panjim and learn about it’s unique history is with a heritage walking tour

The Churches of Old Goa

The best place to visit for sightseeing and to learn about the history of Goa are the churches of Old Goa. This was the capital of Goa when it was under Portuguese rule. It was so grand and important that it was known as ‘the Rome of the East’ and rivalled Lisbon until the city was abandoned for the new capital of Panjim in 1843.

Only the churches are left today and have been declared a UNESCO world heritage site. Highlights include Se Cathedral , the largest church in Asia, and the Basilica of Bom Jesus which houses the remains of St Francis Xavier.

Old Goa is a great place to visit if it’s your first time in Goa as it will help you to understand more about the history of Goa that makes this state so unique. The picturesque churches are also very instagrammable.

The best way to learn about the history and importance of Old Goa is by taking a guided walking tour that will really help to bring this site alive.

Fort Aguada and Chapora Fort

The Portuguese also built huge forts for defence that overlooked the ocean. Nowadays there’s not that much left of many of the forts themselves, apart from the crumbling walls, but they are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Goa due to their stunning views.

Don’t miss Fort Aguada , situated above Candolim Beach, where you can admire the impressive lighthouse and the breathtaking views out to sea.

Another popular fort is the crumbling Chapora Fort. Situated above Vagator Beach at the mouth of the Chapora River, it makes a spectacular spot to watch the sunset. It’s become quite famous since it was in the movie Dil Chati Hai .

Best Places to Visit in Goa for Nature Lovers

Spice plantations and hindu temples.

The Ponda area is Goa’s Hindu Heartland and is where you’ll find Goa spice plantations and most famous Hindu temples.

There’s a number of spice farms that you can visit to be immersed in the lush tropical greenery, learn about the plants and how many illnesses and ailments they can treat. Many have elephants that you can bathe or ride but this is cruel and shouldn’t be supported. 

The family run organic Savoi Spice Plantation is one of the oldest spice farms in Goa and doesn’t abuse elephants. Most spice plantations charge an entry fee of around 500 rupees which includes an entertaining spice plantation tour, buffet lunch and a small sample of some spices. 

You can combine a visit to a spice plantation with visiting some of Goa’s most famous Hindu temples like the Shantadurga Temple. The Mangueshi Temple and the Mahalsa Temple are both distinctive temples that are dedicated to Goan deities.

The best way to see the spice plantations in with a guided tour which include transport and a local lunch.

Dudhsagar Waterfall

Goa is home to many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, but the most famous place for nature lovers to visit is Dudhsagar Falls, situated in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in the Mollem district of South Goa.

Journey through the jungle with an exciting jeep ride to marvel at India’s second highest waterfall, and watch the train pass overhead while swimming in the refreshing waters. Dudhsagar Waterfall is at its fullest during monsoon, but then it’s closed to tourists due to safety corners, and there is water all year round. 

The best way to visit Dudhsagar Waterfall is with this guided tour that includes pick up from your hotel, the jeep ride to the waterfalls, a tour of a spice plantation and lunch.

If you want to immerse yourself in the jungle stay at Dudhsagar Plantation. The nature resort has its own spice plantation, nature trails and a relaxing natural swimming pool. 

Best Tours of Goa

The easiest way to explore the best places to visit in Goa is by taking a day tour. Having a local driver takes all the stress out of getting around and having a local guide really brings these places to life. The best Goa tours are:

Highlights of Goa Tour

This private full day sightseeing tour will take you to explore the highlights of Goa including the capital Panaji and the charming Latin Quarter, the UNESCO listed churches of Old Goa, an informative spice plantation visit and local lunch.

Spice Plantation and Dudhsagar Falls Tour

Get picked up from your hotel and enjoy a jeep ride through the jungle for a refreshing swim in Dudhsagar waterfall. Take a tour of the spice plantations and enjoy a delicious Goan lunch.

Check out more Goa tours on Viator and Get your Guide where you can check reviews and book online.

Best Things to do in Goa

Shop at the flea markets.

While there are endless shopping opportunities in Goa, visiting the many quirky hippie flea markets is a fun and unique experience. Don’t forget to haggle if you want to take home a bargain.

The most famous is the Anjuna Flea Market which takes place on Wednesdays on Anjuna Beach. This colourful market sells everything from hippie clothing and jewellery to Tibetan handicrafts. The Anjuna flea market was started by the hippies back in the 1970s and is now one of the popular things to do in Goa.

Another market to check out is the Arpora Saturday Night Market. This huge market is complete with live music and food stalls and is also a really good night out. There’s also a new popular Friday Night Market at Hilltop Nightclub in Vagator.

Take a Yoga Retreat or Train to be a Yoga Teacher

India is the birthplace of yoga, and Goa is one of the most popular places in the country to take a yoga class or join a week long yoga retreat. You’ll find drop in yoga classes in all styles across the state, many of which cater to beginners. 

The beaches of Palolem, Agonda and Patnem in chilled out South Goa are the best places for yoga in Goa. There are also retreats and classes in Anjuna, Assagao, Mandrem and Arambol in North Goa.

My favourite yoga retreat in Goa is Bamboo yoga retreat located right on the beach front on peaceful Patnem beach in South Goa.

Many yoga schools offer month-long intensive yoga teacher training courses. Find a full list of yoga teacher training courses in Goa here.

There are also numerous other alternative therapies and workshops to try from breathwork to tai chi to sound baths and ecstatic dance. 

You can also enjoy an Ayurvedic massage. Ayurveda is an ancient life science of plant based natural medicine that originated in Kerala but there are many ayurvedic treatments offered in Goa. Take a complete treatment course or just enjoy a nice, relaxing massage. 

Enjoy a Panjim River Cruise and Visit a Floating Casino

Panjim’s unique floating casinos on ships anchored in the Mandovi River have become popular Goa tourist attractions.

The best ones are Deltin Royale and Casino Pride . The entrance fee covers some drinks, snacks, playing chips, music and entertainment. Try your luck on the slot machines or at games like Roulette, Blackjack, Bacarrette, Stud Poker and Rummy.  Check out this article for more info on Goa’s casinos.

There’s several options for a Panjim river cruise including sunset cruises, backwater houseboat cruises, party cruises and dinner cruises with entertainment. You can book the paradise dinner cruise here. You can even book a private party boat to celebrate a special occasion.

Visit Some of Goa’s Wildlife Sanctuaries

Goa has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. The largest one in Mollem is home to Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary which contains Goa’s oldest temple and Dudhsagar falls.

The Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary , near Panjim, offers a unique experience of traveling through the mangroves in a canoe to reach the bird watching tower.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, near Palolem Beach, is where you can climb up a towering tree house for amazing views over the jungle and your chance to spot wildlife.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a complete jungle resort with a zoo, deer safari park, botanical gardens and nature interpretation center. It’s located near Ponda so you could combine this with a visit to a spice plantation. 

Explore the Colonial Mansions in Chandor

Chandor, in South Goa, was once the most spectacular city on the Konkan Coast . Some of the once grand colonial Portuguese mansions are now a shadow of their former glory but visiting Chandor is still an interesting place for those interested in history and architecture.

A highlight is the Menezes Braganza House which was built in the 17th century. This large house is now divided in two and you can see the contrasts between the grand and decrepit in one house and listen to the stories from the owner’s family feuds. The Figueiredo Mansion and the Palácio do Deão are also fascinating to visit.

The best way to visit the Portuguese mansions is on this South Goa Heritage Trail Tour. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to explore 3 Portuguese mansions as well the interesting Goa Chitra Museum.

If you want to immerse yourself in this unique history you can even stay in the Figueiredo Mansion which has been tastefully and lovingly refurbished into a wonderful heritage homestay.

More Exciting Activities to Try in Goa

The fun doesn’t stop at the beach, as well as watersports and boat trips there’s plenty of other exciting activities to try in Goa.

You can paraglide off the cliffs down to the beach if the conditions are right. Taking an ebike tour of offbeat Divar Island  or kayaking on the backwaters is a serene way to experience a different side to Goa. 

Thrill seekers might want to do a Bungy Jump and couples can treat themselves to a romantic experience of hoovering high above the palm trees with a hot air balloon ride.

Nightlife and Parties in Goa

No Goa travel guide would be complete without mentioning Goa’s nightlife scene.

Goa is famous as one of the best places to party in India and one of the hottest party spots in the whole world! Experiencing Goa’s legendary nightlife scene is a must when visiting Goa.

Goa is famous for it’s psytrance parties that started during the hippie days, but nowadays there’s something to suit everyone – from beach parties and live music jams to thumping nightclubs, trendy bars, lively pubs and fun night markets.

Some of the most lively bars, pubs and nightclubs in Goa can be found on Tito’s Lane in Baga , a lively strip of buzzing bars and nightclubs just off popular Baga Beach. There’s also LPK Waterfront and SinQ nightclub in Candolim.

Anjuna and Vagator also have epic beach parties and raves, check out the famous Curlies beach shack on Anjuna Beach or Hilltop nightclub in Vagator for crazy psychedelic rave parties.  Ashvem and Morjim are home to classy nightclubs and party resorts like Marbella Beach Resort.

South Goa is much quieter at night but there are silent headphone discos in Palolem and Leopard Valley is South Goa’s most happening party spot.

New Yea r in Goa is celebrated with fireworks on the beach and some of the most epic parties. Check out my tips for partying in Goa at New Year here.

There’s too many party places in Goa to mention them all in this Goa travel guide.  See more of my nightlife tips here and download the Party Hunt App or check out What’s Up Goa to find out what’s on.

It’s difficult to keep a Goa travel guide updated with all the best party places as they change and move every season but you can keep up to date with what’s happening on Goa nightlife social media groups.

You should also be aware though that Goa’s parties often get shut down or limited to an early closing time. This happens for various reasons but especially around election times when code of conduct comes in.

Best Restaurants in Goa

Goa is home to some amazing restaurants, from cheap and cheerful beach shacks to fine dining restaurants that serve up delicious seafood, traditional Goan cuisine, Indian cuisine and food from all over the world.

There’s too many great restaurants in Goa to mention them all in this Goa travel guide so here’s just some of my favourites . Check out my blog post on the best restaurants in Goa for more recommendations.

You’ll find the best traditional and authentic Goan food in Panjim. Hotel Venite has been serving Goan cuisine since 1955 and is one of the most charming restaurants in Panjim’s latin quater. Sit on the little balconies and watch the world by while sampling Goan cuisine.

Another must try is  Mum’s Kitchen , an award winning Goan restaurant famous for it’s seafood and for preserving traditional Goan family recipes. Viva Panjim is another top choice.

For South Indian food try Gunpowder , in Assagao, regarded as the best South Indian restaurant in Goa Experience the flavours and tastes of their curries, dosas and idlis in a classy garden ambience .

Fisherman’s Wharf , in Cavelossim, South Goa and on Panjim riverside, is one of the best seafood restaurants in Goa. Located on the waterfront with stunning sea views and delicious seafood. 

Thalassa, situated on the banks of the Chapora River in Sioilm, is a Greek restaurant with amazing views over the water. With stunning sunsets, delicious Greek food and live performances and fire shows, it’s become one of the most famous and popular restaurants in Goa. You must book in advance in peak season to reserve your table. See their website to know more and reserve your table.

Artjuna is a super cute cafe in Anjuna that serves up great Israeli and Mediterranean dishes in a relaxed courtyard garden cafe setting.

Beach shacks are some of the best places to eat in Goa and range from cheap and cheerful to gourmet international cuisine.

Pousada by the Beach, part of the Pousada Tauma Hotel, is my top choice for upscale beach front dining in popular Calangute. Pousada serves a great selection of traditional Goan and Konkani cuisine as well as great pastas and salads in a peaceful spot right on Goa’s most popular beach.

La Plage on Ashvem Beach is a gourmet French restaurant with an amazing beach front location that is consistently regarded as one of the very best restaurants in Goa. 

Zeebop is one of the most best beach shacks in South Goa. It’s location, on the pristine, white sands of Utorda make it a great place for long lazy lunch or sunset drinks. Not surprisingly the seafood is a highlight.

How Long to Spend in Goa

It’s difficult to say how long you should spend in Goa. For me, a lifetime is not enough ! The laid back lifestyle and beautiful beaches have a way of making many people want to stay forever.

There’s plenty of things to do in Goa to spend 1 or 2 weeks , but I know that not everyone has so much vacation time. As a minimum I’d spend at least 3 days in Goa just to get a taste of what Goa has to offer. 4 or 5 days in Goa is better though because then you can see the highlights of both north and south.

It’s only a few hours drive between North Goa and South Goa so for the perfect holiday you could spend a few days in both. Enjoy partying in North Goa, relaxing on the beaches in South Goa and take a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa to see everything Goa has to offer in one trip.

Follow my 3 day Goa itinerary to see all of Goa’s highlights in a short trip.

How to Get to Goa

Dabolim International Airport (GOI) is located roughly in the middle of the state and the new airport at Mopa (GOX) in the far north of Goa opened in January 2023.

Goa is well connected with most major Indian cites like Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai. In the season time there are direct charter flights from the UK, Europe and Russia to Goa’s international airport.

International tourists can also fly into Mumbai’s (BOM) or Delhi (DEL) and connect to a domestic flight from there. Mumbai offers the quickest, cheapest and most frequent flights to Goa with direct flights only taking about 1 hour from 2,000 INR.

Goa is also easy to reach by rail. Trains from Mumbai to Madgaon ( Margao) the main train station for Goa take between 9 – 12 hours. Just make sure to book tickets well in advance because seats sell out quickly. The easiest way to do this online is with 12Go Asia.

Madgoan or Margao is roughly in the middle of South Goa and the closest beach is Benaulim only 5km away. North Goa’s beaches are not so well connected by rail.

Other useful train stations in Goa include Vasco da Gama (closest to the airport)  Canacona (for Palolem and the far South) Thivim and Pernem (for North Goa) or Karmali (near Old Goa and the closest to the capital Panjim)

If you can’t get a train ticket there’s also buses and sleeper buses which take about 12 – 14 hours from Mumbai to Goa but the train is much more comfortable and the flight much quicker. Book at 12Go Asia.

How to Get Around Goa

The best way to get from the airport to your hotel is by using the pre paid taxi stand at the airport. Uber is not permitted in Goa.

There is an app based taxi service called Goa Miles but international tourists will find it hard to use unless you have an Indian phone number and bank account. Besides out of the main cities the coverage is not good.

There are public buses in Goa but the bus and train network isn’t really convenient for getting to the beaches or attractions.  The buses connect the villages to the towns like Margao, Mapusa and Panjim but getting between beaches and attractions sometimes requires alot of changes if you wanted to get from Arambol to Palolem for example.

There’s not so many rickshaws as you find in the rest of India and still no Uber in Goa so taxis charge a ridiculous price. There is a new Hop on Hop off open air tourist bus service that connects the most popular North Goa beaches and Panjim with Old Goa and the temples and spice plantations around Ponda.

So the best way to explore Goa is to rent a car, scooter or motorbike . Most hotels and guesthouses will be able to arrange this but be careful as the narrow country roads around the beaches were not built for so much traffic.

International tourists will need to show an international driving permit as well as their normal driving license if stopped by the police.

How to Get an Indian Visa

Nearly all nationalities (apart from citizens of Bhutan, Nepal and the Maldives) must apply for an Indian tourist visa before arriving.

An E-Visa is available for most nationalities including the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand and most European countries, but you do need to apply online before you travel to India. Get your e-visa on the official government website here.

Covid Entry Requirements

As of 22nd November 2022 India is fully open for international tourists and all covid-19 restrictions have been removed.

International arrivals no longer need to submit an online self declaration form or upload a vaccine certificate or negative covid test here before departure. It’s best to stay up to date and check the latest covid news and arrival guidelines here

More Goa Guides and Blog Posts

So that’s it for this Goa guide – I hope you found it useful! I have many more Goa blog posts and Goa travel guides to help you plan your trip to Goa:

• 3 Day Goa Itinerary
• Offbeat places and things to do in Goa
• A Guide to Goa’s Nightlife and Parties
• A Guide to Yoga in Goa.
• Panjim (Panaji) Travel Guide

7 Tips for Eco Friendly and Sustainable Travel in Europe

The best yoga and ayurveda retreats in kerala, india .

Related posts

8 of the best backpacker hostels in delhi, highlights of india, a backpacker’s travel guide to the philippines.

Best description of Goa Goa is best in December & january Specially from 25 dec to 2 january

Actually this is the busiest time and worst time to visit Goa because of the high prices and traffic jams. There are parties at other times of the year anyway

Thanks for the goa You included everything. Keep travelling

Awesome post! Goa is just an amazing travel destination, I really like to this article it’s very interesting and informative. The pictures are very beautiful, thanks for your amazing travel guide. Your photos are mind-blowing.

Also E-Visa has been restored for Uk vistiors as from Dec 2022

What about the last two weeks of Oct? Do you recommend Goa? Are shaks opened yet? And parties?

Late October is a bit of a gamble – it could still be very rainy so the beach shacks and parties don’t normally open until late November – early December.

Thanks for the guide Anna. This year I missed Goa Trip but not next time.

That’s a shame – hope you get to visit Goa again soon!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Yes, send me the newsletter.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

Call Us: +91-0832-2494204

Email:dir[hypen]tour[dot]goa[at]nic[dot]in

Tourism Helpline: 1364

Department of Tourism

Government of Goa

Welcome To Goa Tourism Department

The Administrative head of the Department is Shri Sanjeev Ahuja , IAS, Secretary Tourism. The Department has zonal office in North Goa at Headquarters, Panaji and in South Goa at Margao.

The Current Director of Tourism is Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS. The Public Grievances Officer is Dy. Director (Administration).

The Tourist Information Centres/Counters are located within the State and in Mumbai (temporarily closed). The Zonal Officers are primarily responsible for monitoring the Registration of Tourist Trade under the Tourist Trade Act, 1982.

Read More..

Latest Announcements

List of “Successful Allottees” for erection of temporary seasonal structures, beach shacks, deckbeds/ umbrellas, for Tourist seasons 2023-2026.

Drishti - Do's and Don'ts Guidelines on the beach.

Goa State Shack Policy Year 2023-2026

Government Shack Form Year 2023-2026

Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Policy

Caravan Tourism Policy

• Order under Goa Tourist Places Protection & Maintenance Act October 31, 2022
• Q-system of water sports on Goan beaches notified on Official Gazette October 4, 2022
• Water Sports Rules 2005 September 30, 2022
• Policy for regulation of Water Sports in Goa September 30, 2022
• Draft Jetty Policy 2022 September 12, 2022
• Public Notice – Jetty Policy 2022 September 12, 2022
• User Manual for Registration on NIDHI Portal September 12, 2022
• Procedure of registration/renewal from the point of view of Ease of Doing Business August 2, 2022
• Participation of Goa Tourism at International and Domestic events/exhibitions reg. uploading on website August 2, 2022
• Photography Competition July 20, 2022

Latest News & Events

Incredible india tourist facilitator (iitf) (basic) certificate programme., order under goa tourist places protection & maintenance act, q-system of water sports on goan beaches notified on official gazette, water sports rules 2005, policy for regulation of water sports in goa, draft jetty policy 2022, public notice – jetty policy 2022, user manual for registration on nidhi portal, procedure of registration/renewal from the point of view of ease of doing business, participation of goa tourism at international and domestic events/exhibitions reg. uploading on website.

Follow Us:  

 GTDC reservations: 0832-2438866 / 2438002     Tourism Helpline : 1364

Goa Tourism Development Corporation A Government of Goa Undertaking

Find Yourself

Go slow. Be sossegad. Live Local. We promise you won't be disappointed.

What to See

All seasons, all inclusive, whats happening in goa, exclusive events, shisha ranni, homkund utsav, ghode modni, feast of st francis xavier, serendipity art festival, calender of events, tripurari poornima, vasco saptah, discover goa.

Discover Goa as never before. Your travel plan starts here.

FlyingFish Scuba School

Paragliding or paramotoring, bungy jumping, konkan explorers (nautical tours), 9d cinema & entertainment park, hop on hop off.

Go on tour of some of the best sights in Goa.

Goa Inspires

A picture can speak the unspoken, unearth the hidden or hold memories for life.

Lakes, Falls, Springs, Dams

360 panorama, bird watching.

Catch the latest developments, stay updated with all the past events and more.

Home » Tourism » Goa Is Opened Up For Tourism; Here Is What You Need To Know

Goa Is Opened Up For Tourism; Here Is What You Need To Know

• Rajesh Ghadge
• , October 10, 2021

Goa, the most sought after tourism destination has finally opened up for the tourism. Domestic tourism started picking up from the month of September and now from 15th October onwards even the foreign chartered tourists have been given a green signal to enter Goa.

With Goa opening up fully by the mid of November to all the tourists and international flights there are many things that you need to understand and follow the guidelines to make sure that you are others remain safe.

The permission of entry currently granted only to the chartered tourists from Russia and UK while the all other tourists will be able to enter Goa only after the international flights will be allowed to operate from 15th November 2021.  

#Goa will have a good tourist season this year, especially with international flights to the country scheduled to resume by November 15, Chief Minister #PramodSawant ( @DrPramodPSawant ) said on Saturday. pic.twitter.com/Hj4D7MjFSo — IANS Tweets (@ians_india) October 9, 2021

Chief Minister of Goa Dr Pramod Sawant made an announcement saying that “Goa will have a Good Tourism season this year, especially with International flights to the country scheduled to resume from 15th November,” he said on Saturday while speaking with IANS New Agency.  

Tourism Industry of Goa  

The tourism industry of Goa which include its stakeholders and dependents have thanked the Union Ministry for taking a note of their demand and opening up the state boundaries for International tourism for upcoming season.  

Although the permission has been granted for the chartered flights to land in Goa from 15th October but looking at the visa and other formalities the chartered flights may begin in the beginning of November and if everything goes smooth as expected, the international flings will also commenced from 15th November.  

“It was largely due to our requests that the Central government decided to allow foreigners to arrive in Goa. Goa makes up 92% of the charter flight arrivals in the country and the announcement ahead of the season will allow us to plan in advance and allow charter companies to book slots at the Goa airport,” president of the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), a body which represents businessmen from the tourism industry, Nilesh Shah told the HT .  

According to the TTAG, the process took lot of efforts, persistent communication between the industry that helped the state government to speed up the process of opening Goa for tourism activities with the help of Union government.  

Tourism Business in Goa

According to the association the state generates the foreign exchange of approximately 29 billion US dollars per annum with the help of 40 million skilled and trained manpower employed in the tourism sector. But the pandemic had had adversity affected the state’s economy for the last two years.  

“With the full closure of international flights and visas since March 2020, many operators and stakeholders have shut shop and are facing severe financial constraints,” the TTAG had said.

The stakeholders of the tourism sector had tried to reopen the sector in 2020 too in a limited scope but the second wave struck and everything went back to square. But now since the cases have started flattening with the death rate has come down to near zero the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) gave a green signal to open the sector.  

“In 2020 the domestic tourists were showing off as the rate of cases has started going down but the foreign nationals remained absent due to ban on international flights,” said the TTAG.

Tourism Season in Goa

The tourism season in Goa begins with end of Monsoon every year and this is the first time after after the closure of tourism activities due to the pandemic that the tourists have started floating to the this tiny state with the end of Monsoon season.  

The Russians and British nationals comes to Goa to escape from their severe winter during this time. Goa’s tropical climate is the first choice of many foreigners.  

The UK, Germany, Poland, Russia and Ukraine are the primary sources of foreign tourists to Goa. Visas weren’t relaxed last year as much of Europe was battling an especially severe second wave at the time.  

For many who had made a winter visit to Goa an annual affair, not being able to travel to Goa and having to spend Christmas back in the UK was something they “never experienced before.”

Fully Vaccinated Goa

Goa is the second state in the country after the Uttarakhand to have achieved 100% vaccination by vaccinating its targeted population with at least one dose of the vaccine.

The CM had announced in the month of August that at the state will allow the tourism soon after the state Achieves 100% vaccination.    

Follow us...

Trending....

World Yoga Day: Embracing Wellness in the Peaceful State of Goa

How Technology Improved Betting Opportunities

A Seasonal Guide:Why November to February is the Perfect Time to Visit Goa

A Tourist’s Guide to Safety and Precaution: Your Ultimate Safety Guide to Enjoying Goa

Manipal Hospital Goa Makes Strides in Cardiac Care with Revolutionary Procedure

The Super Cop Who Caught Charles Sobhraj in Goa

Latest news.

Renowned Chef Floyd Cardoz, Co-Owner of Bombay Canteen with Goan Roots Dies of Coronavirus

While the Senior Citizens Bear the Brunt of Taxi Strike in Goa, Locals Create Social Media Group to Help Tourists

Employment Policy will Focus on Job Reservation to Goans

Tourist Makes Video and Post Online After Local Taxi Drivers Forced him out of GoaMiles Taxi at Five Star Hotel in South Goa

Life of Expats in the Gulf is not so Rosy Anymore

Model Code of Conduct, What is it and How it affects the Common Man

The New OCI Notification May Jeopardise the Dual-Citizenship of Goans Abroad

The Story of the Sufferings of two Goan Youth in Saudi, and how they managed return back to Goa

Finally, Labs to Test fish for formalin before they enter Goa

EU Citizens Will not be able to Enter in UK to Live, Work or Study from 31st October

MARDANGAD & PONDA KOTT, THE MARATHA FORTS OF PONDA

Mapusa Rivulet Turned into a sewage water reserve, Authorities turning a blind eye to it?

Domestic Tourists creating Nuisance by Cooking and Drinking in the Public Places in Goa, do we really need such tourists??

50 Goan Seafarers Stuck on Diamond Princess Cruise Ship hit by Corona Virus Onboard

Goa Government wants to extend the Lockdown with Resumption of Economic Activities in the State

Extra Marital Affairs Part 2 Causes and Reasons

A Goan Family and 80 Other Investors Duped by A Former Banker

Water Sports and Boat Cruise Now Open, Here’s What You Need To Know

© 2020 Incredible Goa - All rights reserved​

Made with ❤ by Goa Prism Digital Media​

Must-see attractions in Goa

Basilica de Bom Jesus

Famous throughout the Roman Catholic world, the imposing Basilica de Bom Jesus contains the tomb and mortal remains of St Francis Xavier, the so-called…

Sé Cathedral

At over 76m long and 55m wide, the cavernous Sé Cathedral is the largest church in Asia. Building commenced in 1562, on the orders of King Dom Sebastiao…

Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Panaji’s spiritual, as well as geographical, centre is this elevated, pearly white church, built in 1619 over an older, smaller 1540 chapel, and stacked…

Artist and restorer Victor Hugo Gomes first noticed the slow extinction of traditional objects – from farming tools to kitchen utensils to altarpieces –…

Braganza House

Braganza House, built in the 17th century and stretching along one whole side of Chandor’s village square, is the biggest Portuguese mansion of its kind…

Reis Magos Fort

Opened to the public in 2012 as a cultural centre, Reis Magos Fort overlooks the narrowest point of the Mandovi River estuary, making it easy to…

Palácio do Deão

About 8km southeast of Chandor is the busy small town of Quepem. Here the Palácio do Deão, the renovated 18th-century palace built by the town’s founder,…

Dudhsagar Falls

Panaji & Central Goa

Situated in the far southeastern corner of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa’s most impressive waterfall splashes down just west of the border…

Church & Convent of St Cajetan

Modelled on the original design of St Peter’s in Rome, this impressive church was built by Italian friars of the Order of Theatines, sent here by Pope…

Shri Mahadeva Temple

If you’re a history or temple buff, don’t miss the atmospheric remains of the unusual little Hindu Shri Mahadeva Temple at Tambdi Surla, 12km north of…

Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Named after the late Dr Salim Moizzudin Abdul Ali, India’s best-known ornithologist, this serene sanctuary on Chorao Island was created by Goa’s Forestry…

Church of St Francis of Assisi

West of the Sé Cathedral, the Church of St Francis of Assisi is no longer in use for worship, and consequently exudes a more mournful air than its…

Shri Chandreshwar Temple

Approximately 14km southeast of Margao near the village of Paroda, a number of hills rise out of the plain, the highest of which is Chandranath Hill (350m…

Patnem Beach

Smaller and less crowded than Palolem to the north, Patnem makes a quiet and friendly alternative. It’s backed by relaxed beach shacks and has a lively…

Agonda Beach

Agonda’s beach is wide, quiet and picturesque, with a forestry department–staffed turtle centre at the northern end protecting precious olive ridley sea…

Fort Aguada

Standing on the headland overlooking the mouth of the Mandovi River, Fort Aguada occupies a magnificent and successful position, confirmed by the fact it…

Usgalimal Petroglyphs

One of Goa’s least visited but most fascinating sights is deep in the countryside at Usgalimal: a series of prehistoric petroglyphs (rock art), carved…

Goa State Museum & Secretariat Building

Currently housed in the Secretariat, the oldest colonial building in Goa, the state museum features an eclectic, if not extensive, collection of items…

Church of the Holy Spirit

Margao’s whitewashed main church (1675) remains in use as a parish church and is finely decorated inside. The impressive reredos (ornamental screen) is…

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

The entrance to Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible from Molem and, with an area of 240 sq km, this is the largest of Goa’s four…

Archaeological Museum

The archaeological museum houses some lovely fragments of sculpture from Hindu temple sites in Goa, and some sati stones, which once marked the spot where…

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

About 9km southeast of Palolem, and a good day trip, is the beautiful, remote-feeling Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa’s second-largest sanctuary and…

Three Kings Chapel

It's the hilltop views, rather than the plain little chapel itself, that should entice you to take the steep road east off the coastal road up to Three…

Church of St Anne

About 5km north of Goa Velha, in the small village of Talaulim, the massive Church of St Anne (known to the local people simply as Santana) is an imposing…

Altinho Hill

On the hillside above Panaji is the well-to-do residential district of Altinho. Apart from good views over the city and river, the main attraction here is…

Museum of Goa

Calangute & Baga

Not so much a museum as a gallery for contemporary art, MOG features artworks, sculptures, exhibitions, workshops, courses, sitar concerts and an…

Salaulim Dam & Botanical Gardens

About 26km southeast of Margao, Salaulim Dam is a major reservoir supplying irrigation and drinking water to South Goa. For visitors the dam wall is quite…

Terekhol Fort

Arambol (Harmal)

This historic bastion just across the river from Querim was built by the ruling Maratha dynasty in the early 18th century. It was soon taken by the…

Braganza House West Wing

The West Wing belongs to one set of the Braganza family’s descendants, the Menezes-Braganças. It’s well maintained and more like a museum than a home,…

Braganza House East Wing

The East Wing of Braganza House is owned by the Pereira-Braganza family. It’s not as grand and well-maintained as its western counterpart, but is…

Fernandes House

A kilometre east past the church, and open to the public, is the Fernandes House, whose original building dates back more than 500 years, while the…

Museum of Christian Art

This museum, housed in part of the 1627 Convent of St Monica, contains a collection of statues, paintings and sculptures. Interestingly, many of the works…

Church of St Cajetan

Modelled on the original design of St Peter's in Rome, the Church of St Cajetan was built by Italian friars of the Order of Theatines, who were sent by…

San Thome Museum

This quirky museum at the Varca (southern) end of Benaulim, dubbed 'Back in Time', has three floors of carefully presented technology through the ages,…

Casa Araujo Alvares

Loutolim is home to a number of impressive Portuguese mansions but just one, Casa Araujo Alvares, opposite Ancestral Goa, is officially open to the public…

Mario Gallery

This gallery and shop showcases work by India’s favourite cartoonist, Loutolim local Mario de Miranda, who died in 2011 at the age of 85. Along with…

Goa State Central Library

Panaji’s modern state library has six floors of reading material, a bookshop and gallery. The 2nd floor features a children’s book section and internet…

Cabo da Rama Fort

A fort has occupied this bluff guarding the mouth of the Sal River for centuries, and came into Portuguese hands in 1763. There’s not much to see of the…

Gitanjali Gallery

Worth a look while walking around the district of Fontainhas, this spacious gallery in the beautiful Panjim Peoples displays works by local and…

Mandrem Beach

The beach here is wide and whiter than those further south. An unusual feature of Mandrem is the narrow river inlet separating the white-sand beach from…

More destinations you need to see

Subscribe Now! Get features like

• Latest News

• Entertainment
• Real Estate
• Lok Sabha Session Live
• T20 World Cup 2024
• Crickit Predictor
• World Cup Schedule 2024
• World Cup Most Wickets
• World Cup Points Table
• Budget 2024
• The Interview
• Web Stories
• Virat Kohli
• Mumbai News
• Bengaluru News
• Daily Digest
• Election Schedule 2024

Goa braces for ‘unprecedented’ numbers in 1st tourism season after Covid

Goa’s tourism sector is a big source of revenue for the state. the tourism industry in goa directly contributes 16.43% towards the state’s gross domestic product (gdp) and also provides employment to nearly 35% of the state’s population that is dependent on the sector.

As the tourism season peaks in Goa, the government, under mounting pressure, is gearing up to welcome tourists from all around the world.

Goa this year is expecting unprecedented tourist numbers in the first season that opens fully after the Covid pandemic. As per official estimates, prior to the pandemic, the state witnessed close to 90 lakh tourists, including around 9 lakh foreigners.

Although tourism is one of the primary sources of income for the state, the authorities this time are planning to impose restrictions, including substantial fines to keep the crowd in control.

The authorities are also planning on strengthening the penal provisions of the law in the popular destinations and beaches where crowds throng the area creating mess, including littering, drinking on the beach and abandoning the bottles there, and cooking along the streets, among others, officials said.

Also Read: Manipur to celebrate Amur Falcon Festival on Monday

“We believe in responsible and sustainable tourism. But there are certain new practices. People come to the beaches, break beer bottles, and leave empty beer bottles. The law was not clear on this so far, so we have issued a notification specifying the banned ‘nuisance activities’ because it is important that they are stopped immediately and we have placed substantial fines,” Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said.

Moreover, the local residents, mainly from the capital city of Panaji have complained to the authorities about tourists spoiling the roads, and footpaths in the city including traffic jams and chaos all around.

“Panjimites are angry, frustrated and under a lot of stress, due to different factors like parking, traffic jams, photo shoots by tourists in our residential areas, broken footpaths, potholed roads etc. Our city is not at all healthy. It’s getting sicker and sicker by the day, and yet the government is planning more projects on existing recreational spaces,” Patricia Pinto a former councillor of the Corporation of the City of Panaji said.

Alleging that the government’s entire focus is on gambling, fun and entertainment for revenue generation, Arminio Ribeiro, an architect and town planner, and member of the conservation committee of the Corporation of the City of Panaji raised questions on the future projects planned for the city which eventually will come at the cost of the locals.

Also Read: ₹ 10 k fine over mishap, mandatory registration: New rules for Noida pet owners

“Panaji as a unique cultural and heritage city is ignored. Instead, the entire focus is on gambling, fun and entertainment. As citizens of the city, we are concerned with the chaos from unregulated traffic, loss of our public waterfront spaces, and the image of our city from a heritage city to a casino city,” Ribeiro said.

Locals have also challenged and are up in arms against the Goa Tourism Department’s proposal of converting the children’s park in Panjim into a ‘waste to art park’ saying that tourism promotion will come at the cost of local welfare.

Recreational spaces on the waterfront have already made way for casino lounges, Pinto said.

“...And if the proposed ‘waste to water park’ will be formed, this will mean the best garden in Panjim maintained by the forest department would have a manned ticket entry, would be closed to our children, taking away their play space, and a recreational space where we could relax, rejuvenate, and socialise would be lost to us forever. Nobody has the right to snatch them away from us,” added Pinto.

“Tourists are free to share our space, we welcome them. But developing it for them and locking us out is a definite no,” she said.

The plan was finally withdrawn and will instead be set up elsewhere after opposition, but the capital city is feeling the pressure.

Also Read: AT HTLS 2022, Arvind Kejriwal explains why ‘people don’t want Opposition unity’

The tourism industry, however, said the numbers were a ‘good sign’. “Last year after the pandemic subsided, we had what was called revenge tourism. This year we will be receiving foreign tourists as well, which will help diversify our clientele. We need a diverse set of tourists in order that all categories of stakeholders are satisfied. A lot of small hotels and guesthouses depend on domestic tourists,” the president of the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa said.

“At the same time, we want to promote Goa as a safe and favourable experience for all including those looking for family tourism. It will help if we can keep the beaches clean, and offer different adventure experiences so we can attract the right kind of tourists,” he added.

“If I speak about limitations it will sound like an excuse. We will use our resources to take stringent action,” Police Inspector Dattaguru Sawant of the Calangute Police station said.

But law enforcement agencies admit that resources are stretched.

“In the long run, we have to promote Goa as a quality tourism destination and quality tourists to come into the state which will help us in employment and help the industry in terms of economics. We are equally accountable to our people,” the tourism minister said when asked will the state be able to handle the numbers with Goa set to get a second airport over the coming months bringing more tourists and forming a greater number of destinations.

Goa’s tourism sector is a big source of revenue for the state. The tourism industry in Goa directly contributes 16.43% towards the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and also provides employment to nearly 35% of the state’s population that is dependent on the sector, according to official estimates.

Get World Cup ready with Crickit ! From live scores to match stats, catch all the action here. Explore now!

Get Current Updates on India News , Budget 2024 , Weather Today along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.

Join Hindustan Times

Create free account and unlock exciting features like.

• Terms of use
• Privacy policy
• Weather Today
• HT Newsletters
• Subscription
• Print Ad Rates
• Code of Ethics

• Live Cricket Score
• India Squad
• T20 World Cup Schedule
• Cricket Teams
• Cricket Players
• ICC Rankings
• Cricket Schedule
• Points Table
• T20 World Cup Australia Squad
• Pakistan Squad
• T20 World Cup England Squad
• India T20 World Cup Squad Live
• T20 World Cup Most Wickets
• T20 World Cup New Zealand Squad
• Other Cities
• Income Tax Calculator
• Petrol Prices
• Diesel Prices
• Silver Rate
• Relationships
• Art and Culture
• Taylor Swift: A Primer
• Telugu Cinema
• Tamil Cinema
• Board Exams
• Exam Results
• Competitive Exams
• BBA Colleges
• Engineering Colleges
• Medical Colleges
• BCA Colleges
• Medical Exams
• Engineering Exams
• Horoscope 2024
• Festive Calendar 2024
• Compatibility Calculator
• The Economist Articles
• Lok Sabha States
• Lok Sabha Parties
• Lok Sabha Candidates
• Explainer Video
• On The Record
• Vikram Chandra Daily Wrap
• EPL 2023-24
• ISL 2023-24
• Asian Games 2023
• Public Health
• Economic Policy
• International Affairs
• Climate Change
• Gender Equality
• future tech
• Daily Sudoku
• Daily Crossword
• Daily Word Jumble
• HT Friday Finance
• Explore Hindustan Times
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Subscription - Terms of Use

15 Top-Rated Attractions and Places to Visit in Goa

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 6, 2023

With golden-sand beaches, tangled palm trees touching the sky, and a relaxed atmosphere, Goa stands in stark contrast from the other bustling urban destinations in India. Even just a short visit to this beach paradise feels like a vacation within a vacation. The beauty and serenity of Goa will rejuvenate you, while its robust calendar of events and activities give you plenty of things do to during your free time.

Popular coastal hot spots, like Colva Beach and Palolem Beach , draw tourists to Goa from around the world. But beaches are just the beginning of what makes Goa one of the most beloved places to visit in India. The destination also has unique Portuguese-influenced cuisine , historical churches and temples , vibrant wildlife , and fascinating spice farms . No matter how long you spend in Goa, you'll wish you had a few extra days to explore.

For more ideas to help plan your trip to India, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Goa.

1. Popular Beaches

2. beaches off the beaten path, 3. tanshikar's working spice farm, 4. portuguese-indian restaurants, 5. basilica de bom jesus, 6. dudhsagar falls, 7. anjuna market, 8. church of our lady of the immaculate conception, 9. braganza house, 10. mahadev temple, 11. palácio do deão, 12. mangeshi temple, 13. fontainhas, 14. bhagwan mahavir wildlife sanctuary, 15. reis magos fort, map of attractions and places to visit in goa, goa, india - climate chart.

Beaches play a starring role among the attractions in Goa, contributing to why it's one of the best places to visit in India .

Nearly every tourist who visits the area spends a day at Palolem Beach , a crescent-shaped stretch of white sand that overlooks the Arabian Sea in south Goa. While simply hanging out and soaking up the scenery is a perfect way to enjoy this beautiful area, Palolem Beach also offers an array of activities to fill your time. Choose from kayaking , yoga classes , dolphin-sightseeing trips, and swimming . You can also spend the night in one of Palolem's rustic coco huts , which are erected at the start of the high season.

Colva Beach is another one of the most famous beaches in Goa , especially among Indian tourists. It has swaying palms and a broad stretch of bronze sand, where you'll occasionally see herds of cows sunbathing next to tourists. You can rent Jet Skis , hop on a thrilling banana boat ride , and get a bird's-eye view of the beach on a parasailing adventure.

Homestay accommodations in the area will give you an authentic local-style experience – plus easy access to Colva Beach.

While known for their spectacular scenery, the popular beaches in Goa tend to get crowded during high season, leaving some travelers eager for a quieter natural escape. Fortunately, Goa brims with undiscovered beach attractions and things to do that give you some distance from the throngs of tourists while still treating you to glorious sand and surf.

One of the best hidden gems in Goa is Butterfly Beach. It has a curving expanse of sand flanked by boulders that create a postcard-worthy cove, brimming with butterflies and blossoms. It's also a great spot to watch dolphins swim in the distance.

You'll need to embark on a boat ride from Palolem Beach or Agonda Beach, or tackle a challenging forest hike, to reach Butterfly Beach – but the obstacles to getting here help to thin out the crowds. You might even have the place to yourself.

While more developed than Butterfly Beach, Utorda Beach is another stunning getaway from the more crowded beaches around Goa. It features clean, blue water; silky sand; and a few small beach shacks. Look closely as you wade in the water, and you may spot some small starfish .

South India has been known for its abundance of spices, like black pepper, cardamom, and cloves, for centuries. In fact, these natural flavorings were a major appeal for Portuguese traders who came to Goa hundreds of years ago.

Tourists can see what the local spice scene is all about by touring Tanshikar's Working Spice Farm & Ecological Rest House . This agritourism attraction grows seven different spices: pepper, vanilla, nutmeg, turmeric, cardamom, and chili, using totally organic farming methods.

Tours of the farm, often led by its owner, will give you an in-depth understanding of these flavor-charged crops and a chance to see some of the other products, like betelnut, coffee beans, pineapple, and banana, grown on the premises. Tanshikar's also keeps bees and produces its own all-natural honey.

Spice farm tours aren't the only fun thing to do at Tanshikar's. Guests can also take a vegetarian cooking class , visit a bubbly lake , trek to Mainapi Waterfall, and train to become a yoga teacher. It's an attraction that has something for everyone.

Address: Netravali, near Smriti Yoga, Sanguem, Goa

Official site: http://www.tanshikarspicefarm.com/

Food is a major attraction in Goa. This part of India has a distinctive cuisine that blends Portuguese and Goan flavors, setting it apart from all the other food around India. Expect fiery flavors, fresh-caught seafood, and an abundance of coconut in the dishes.

You can't leave Goa without trying its signature dish, vindaloo, a super-hot meat curry made with palm vinegar and dried red chili peppers. Hospedaria Venite in the capital of Goa, Panaji , wows tourists with its mouthwatering vindaloo. Dominick, a Benaulim Beach mainstay, is another favorite spot for vindaloo – plus it offers front-row seats for world-class sunsets.

Another Goan specialty is xacuti, a rich curry with poppy seeds, chili, and coconut. Try it at Souza Lobo , a beachfront restaurant in Calangute , or Fat Fish , a well-trafficked spot in Baga.

Tourists hankering for some fresh seafood are spoiled for choice around Goa. Zeebop , on Utorda Beach , offers delightful fish curry, prawn stew, and mackerel doused with spicy red sauce.

You also can't go wrong with dinner at Copperleaf. The upscale restaurant in Porvorim has a fish thali that you'll be dreaming about long after you've finished.

While many tourists visit Goa for the beaches, countless others consider the trip to be a pilgrimage to important religious sites, like the Basilica de Bom Jesus.

This Old Goa attraction dates back to the late 16th century and contains the remains of the St. Francis Xavier . The "Apostle of the Indies" co-founded the Society of Jesus religious order with friend St. Ignatius Loyola and spearheaded an extensive mission in India. The basilica has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.

The modest yet imposing structure is a mix of Doric, Corinthian, and Baroque style with intricate carvings. Interestingly, the building was stripped of its lime plaster in the mid-20th century, making it the only church in Goa without plaster. The Basilica de Bom Jesus has since become worn by monsoons.

You can tour the church on your own, or hire one of the independent guides near the entrance for a small fee. Inside, you can see huge ornamental screens, along with the body of the resident saint in a casket that was once covered in precious stones. It's a compelling place that will transport you back in time.

Every year, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier draws big crowds to this church in late November and early December. It kicks off with a nine-day novena and open-air masses before concluding with the major holiday on Dec. 3.

Address: Old Goa Road, Bainguinim, Goa

Aquatic adventures go beyond the beach in Goa. The state is also home to Dudhsagar Falls, a spectacular four-tiered waterfall that towers some 310 meters above the earth. It's one of India's tallest waterfalls and a perpetually popular attraction for day trips around Goa and Karnataka .

To reach the falls, you'll need to make your way to the village of Colem by taxi or train. Depending on which train route you take, you may get a glimpse of Dudhsagar Falls along the way. Then, you'll hop aboard a shared jeep through the jungle, passing Devil's Canyon along the way. Around 45 minutes later, you'll scurry over some boulders to finally reach the falls.

The best time to visit Dudhsagar Falls is right after the monsoon , when the water is gushing. Tourists who wish to take a dip can rent a life jacket from vendors at the attraction.

Hot tip: Only 300 jeeps are allowed to enter Dudhsagar Falls every day, although tour operators have been requesting to increase the capacity during high season. Make reservations in advance, or prepare to wait in long lines if you wish to visit.

Goa is home to a ton of markets, but none offer the liveliness or selection of products found at Anjuna Market. For roughly 50 years, hundreds of vendors have been setting up shop on Anjuna Beach every Wednesday to tempt free-spirited travelers with hippy-inspired trinkets and souvenirs.

Ornate textiles, woven bikinis, sculptures of deities, dreamcatchers, hammocks, magnets, t-shirts with sassy slogans, beaded jewelry, toys – you name it, you can probably buy it here.

But even if you don't want to shop, you should still make a point to visit Anjuna Market for the sightseeing. The flea market is a swirling array of colorful wares, salespeople driving hard bargains, big bags of fresh spices, and street food galore. The vibe alone is one of the reasons why Anjuna Market is one of the top places to visit in Goa.

Address: 10 St. Michael's Vaddo South, Anjuna, Goa

Make your way to the laid-back city of Panaji to visit another one of Goa's historic churches: The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

The pristine white church, which dates back to the early 17th century, stands atop a zig-zagging staircase that resembles the tiers of a wedding cake. Its perfectly symmetrical Portuguese Baroque architecture is a sight to behold. At night, twinkle lights make the church look like something out of a fairy tale.

While not ornate, the church's interior boasts bright, colorful decorations. Tourists can see the elegant main altar (dedicated to Mary, mother of Jesus) and gilded pillars with elaborate carvings. Vines of blue and white blossoms often adorn parts of the vaulted ceiling around various holidays.

Dec. 8 marks the Festival of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception , a major holiday at this church. Swing by to see it decked out in tons of colorful lights.

Address: Rua Emídio Garcia, Altinho, Panaji, Goa

See what houses in Goa looked like during the 17th century at Braganza House, a historical mansion that flanks the village square in Chandor. It's divided into an east and west wing, both of which are available for tourists to poke around at their leisure.

The east wing is home to members of the Pereira-Braganza family. It boasts a massive ballroom with an impressive marble floor, along with a small chapel that contains one of St. Francis Xavier's fingernails. This part of Braganza House also brims with antiques and international artifacts.

The western side preserves the original grandeur of Braganza House. Owned by the Menezes-Braganças, the museum-like space features an expansive library with 5,000 leather-bound books from the private collection of journalist Luis de Menezes Braganza, who played an important role in the Goan independence movement. Tourists can also see breathtaking Belgian glass chandeliers, antique portraits of the family, and Chinese porcelain.

Address: Guddi-Chandor Road, Culsabhatt, Chandor, Goa

Located just 12 kilometers north of Molem , Mahadev Temple gives tourists a chance to see a structure that has been standing since the 12th century. Its remote location helped it survive centuries of conquests by the Portuguese and Muslim colonialists. Legend has it that the black basalt temple , which was built to honor Lord Shiva, has a resident king cobra. Step inside to see the detailed work of artisan carvers, including the lotus flower on the ceiling.

If Braganza House got you excited, just wait until you see Palácio do Deão. The 200-plus-year-old palace in Quepem has been restored to its original glory. It features a blend of Indian and Portuguese architecture. Tourists are welcome to explore the heritage home, including its game room and library filled with rare tomes.

The property also features sweeping tropical gardens that make for a pleasant place to spend the afternoon. Consider making reservations in advance for afternoon tea on the terrace.

Address: Opposite Holy Cross Church, Quepem, Goa

Official site: http://www.palaciododeao.com/

Goa's unique culture and heritage are on full display at Mangeshi Temple, a beautiful spiritual attraction that's been standing for roughly 450 years. The pastel blue, gold, and white temple features a seven-story tower that pays homage to one of the Hindu god Shiva's many incarnations: Manguesh. The temple structures surround a sacred pool of water , which is thought to be the most historic part of this religious site.

You can watch devotees perform pujas (worship rituals) at the temple every day. If you happen to be there on a Monday, you can watch the Manguesh idol taken out for a procession, complete with music, in the late afternoon or early evening.

Address: Dinanath Mangeshkar Road, Mangeshi Village, Mardol, Goa

Lace up your most comfortable pair of walking shoes and head to Panjim for a stroll around Fontainhas, one of Asia's only Latin quarters . Once the headquarters for the Portuguese government in Goa, the UNESCO-recognized Heritage Zone features colonial houses and cottages decked out with pastel and fluorescent façades. Each of the houses get a fresh coat of paint after the monsoon season every year, ensuring that they always look vibrant for visitors. Don't miss the district's namesake Fountain of Phoenix.

You can explore the area on your own, or book a walking tour for a more in-depth look at the history of this fascinating neighborhood. Either way, you'll definitely work up an appetite as you wander the narrow cobblestone streets and snap photos in front of the candy-colored buildings. Refuel at one of the decades-old cafés or bakeries in the neighborhood. Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro , a bakery near Mary Immaculate School, is known for having a wide selection of tasty Goan cakes and sweets.

Wildlife lovers should put Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary at the top of their Goa travel plans. The state's largest protected wildlife area, which spans 240 square kilometers and is also home to Molem National Park , is home to all kinds of amazing creatures, including the black leopard, Bengal tiger, Malabar giant squirrel, wild boar, slender loris, Indian rock python , and ruby-throated yellow bulbul (Goa's state bird).

Hiring a guide through a travel agent, and visiting the sanctuary in the early morning or late evening increases your chances at catching a glimpse of these animals. During the daytime, you can see the natural wonders of Dudhsagar Falls and Devil's Canyon . You can also check out the Tambdi Surla Temple , a temple that has survived since the 12th century, thanks to its remote location in the forest. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings of the Hindu gods Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.

Dating back to 1493, Reis Magos Fort was once a defense structure aimed at protecting the area's then-capital, Goa Velha. Today, the fort is a top attraction in Goa for tourists looking to take a break from the beaches and dive into the state's fascinating history.

The site has a storied past not only as a military outpost, but also as a hospital and a jail. Tourists can see cannons, a small museum exhibit on the fort's history, and jaw-dropping views of the Mandovi River .

After your visit, head to the town's other famous attraction: Reis Magos Church. The pristine white church is one of just a handful of churches in Goa that has processions and re-enactments for the Feast of the Three Kings (Epiphany). Inside the structure, you can see an impressive multi-colored wood relief of a scene that depicts the Three Wise Men handing gifts to the Baby Jesus.

Address: Nerul-Reis Margos Road, beside Three Kings Church, Bardez, Verem, Goa

More on India

Best Time To Visit Goa

Top hotel collections.

Beach Resorts

5-star Hotels

What is the best time to visit Goa?

The best time to visit Goa is from  November to February when the weather is ideal for sightseeing and relaxing on the stunning beaches. The temperature during this time ranges around 20 to 30 degrees Celcius and it is also the peak tourist season in Goa.  Monsoons from June to September are another great time to visit Goa if you love the beach during rains. Summer is not a good time to visit Goa. With the temperature fluctuating between 25 to 35 degrees Celcius, the weather from March to May  is extremely hot and humid.

Weather in Goa

Upcoming Goa Weather

Monthly weather in goa, goa travel packages.

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

3 Nights 4 Days Goa Holiday Tour Package

Time to unwind in goa, goa with amazing water sports fun, goa with family and kids, goa - winter special, offbeat tour package: chikmagalur, hampi & more with goa, more about best time to travel to goa, best time for adventure seekers, best time for honeymooners, goa in winter (november - february).

Goa in Monsoon (July - September)

Goa in Summer (March - June)

Events in Goa

India bike week.

24th - 25th November

Sao Joao Feast, Across Goa (Siolim Particularly)

Water sports activities.

October - May

Goa Carnival

2nd March 2019

Shigmo Festival

21st March 2019

Igitun Chalne

International film festival of india -iffi.

20th November 2019 - 28th November 2019

Sufi Sutra International Sufi Music Festival By Kala Academy Goa

6th - 8th February

Related Posts

Best Time to Visit India

Places To Visit In Goa

Calangute Beach

Fort Aguada

Cruise in Goa

Water Sports in Goa

Dudhsagar Falls

Anjuna Beach

Nearby Places

+ 48 photos

Browse Package Collections

Goa package collections.

Goa Honeymoon Packages

Nearby Destinations for Packages

Mahabaleshwar

Browse Hotel Collections

By hotel type.

Best Resorts in Goa

Best Villas in Goa

Best Hotels in Goa

Best Resorts in South Goa for a quaint vacation

Best Homestays In Goa For A Pleasant Goan Retreat

Best Villas in Goa with Private Pool

Best Hotels In North Goa

Best Luxury Resorts In Goa

Best Cottages In Goa for a Rustic Stay

Best Villas in North Goa

Best Villas in Calangute

By Budget Category

Best 5-star Hotels In Goa

Cheap Hotels In Goa

Budget Hotels In Goa

ITC Hotels In Goa

OYO Hotels In Goa

Goa Hotels Near Airport

Best Budget Resorts In Goa

Hotels in North Goa

Cheapest 5 Star Hotel In Goa

Budget Hotels In Calangute

By Star Category

3 Star Hotels In Goa

4-star hotels in Goa

Best 5-Star Hotels in South Goa for the Beach Stay

Best 5-Star Hotels in North Goa

3 Star Hotels In North Goa

5 Star Hotels In Candolim

3 Star Hotels In Calangute

5 Star Hotels In Calangute

3 Star Hotels In Candolim

With Specific Facilities

Taj Hotels In Goa

Hotels In Goa Near Calangute Beach

Resorts In Goa With Private Pool

Best Hostels In North Goa

Hilton Hotels In Goa

Hotels In Goa With Bathtub

Resorts Near Calangute Beach

Hotels Near Candolim Beach

Lodges In Goa

Hotels Near Colva Beach

Hotels Near Palolem Beach

Near Landmarks

Resorts Near Anjuna Beach

Resorts Near Candolim Beach

Resorts Near Colva Beach

Resorts Near Palolem Beach

Villas Near Calangute Beach

Hotels Near Benaulim Beach

Hotels Near Bogmalo Beach

Hotels Near Morjim Beach

Resorts Near Dudhsagar Falls

Resorts Near Vagator Beach

Hotels Near Agonda Beach

For Special Purposes

Best Beach Resorts In Goa For a relaxing getaway

Best Hotels in Goa Near Beaches

Best Beach Resorts in South Goa

Resorts with Private Beach in Goa for a Luxe Beach Vacay

Best Beach Resorts in Calangute

Resorts in North Goa for the Perfect Beach Vibes

Best Beach Resorts in Anjuna

Best Beach Resorts in Candolim

Best Beach Resorts in North Goa

Best Beach Resorts in Arambol

Best Yoga Retreats In Goa

Similar Places

Beaches & Islands

Best Beaches In Goa for a Great Time in the Sun

Casinos in Goa

Experiences

Car Rentals in Goa - Helpful Guide on How to Rent a Car in Goa

Beaches in South Goa For A Perfect Beach Holiday

Scuba Diving In Goa - Price, Location, & Operators

Beautiful Churches of Goa

View All posts about Goa

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

The Best Travel & Tourism Blog of India

India Tours

• International Tours
• Destination Wedding
• Medical Tourism

Plan Your trip

Top 20 places to experience the best of goa tourism.

COVID-19 has really taken the wind out of the sails of those who love to travel, explore & experience all that the world has to offer. It has also affected those who treasure Goa for its beauty, heritage, beaches, nightlife and everything else that makes it a top tourist destination in India. We are sure that you are extremely eager to visit Goa and have a grand time, having been unable to visit it for so long! That is why we have come up with this blog, to remind you once again of the charm and attraction of Goa & what are the top places that let you experience the best of what it has to offer.

Utter the word Goa, and images of beaches with colourful beach shacks, wild parties, flea markets buzzing with tourists & fresh seafood flood your mind. Although it is counted among the top travel destinations in India because of those things, there is much more to this state with its coastline which stretches along the Arabian Sea. There are several points of tourist interest excellent for sightseeing, from waterfalls to spice plantations. You can avail the benefits of an Ayurvedic massage or take a heritage walk exploring the Latin quarters. It is for all these reasons, this wide appeal to everybody, that Goa stands out as both a favourite honeymoon destination and a tourist destination suitable for family holidays. In this blog, we bring you the top 15 places where you can experience the best that Goa has to offer.

List of 20 Best Places to Visit in Goa

• Panaji, North Goa
• Margao, South Goa
• Vasco da Gama, South Goa
• Mapusa, North Goa
• Calangute, North Goa
• Candolim, North Goa
• Anjuna, North Goa
• Bambolim, North Goa
• Agonda, South Goa
• Mandrem, North Goa
• Morjim, North Goa
• Sanquelim, North Goa
• Ponda, North Goa
• Bicholim, North Goa
• Valpoi, North Goa
• Canacona, South Goa
• Sanguem, South Goa
• Quepem, South Goa

Recommended Tour Packages

• 5 Nights 6 Days Goa Beach Tour Package
• 10 Nights 11 Days Golden Triangle Tour With Goa
• 6 Nights 7 Days Goa Carnival Tour

Panaji: A relaxed state capital!

Panaji should occupy a place in your list of visiting places in Goa, not just because it’s the capital city, but because there are so many places that make for an incredible sightseeing tour. From taking a heritage walk in Fontainhas – the Latin Quarters to spending a day at the Miramar Beach, this city promises you a quality time. Ornithologists and bird lovers can also visit the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, situated just 7 kilometers from here & home to migratory birds as well as common & uncommon species of marsh dwelling birds.

Popular Things to See in Panaji

• Resig Magos Fort
• Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
• Adil Shahi Palace
• Miramar Beach
• Kala Academy
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
• Divar Island
• Shanta Durga Temple
• Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Other Interesting Blog to Read

• 20 Best Beaches to Visit in Goa

Margao: Cultural capital of Goa!

Margao is not the kind of place which you would want to miss while planning to visit Goa. The town claims the tag of being Goa’s cultural capital, and after exploring it, you realize, it’s a tag well deserved. The prominent landmarks in the town are the Municipal Garden, The Holy Spirit Church, House of Seven Gables and Damodar Temple, all of which are famous points of interest for tourists. You should also visit the special market to explore the various species and dried fish. Almost all the specialties that make Goa famous are to be found in Margao, apart from the Margao curry. It’s interesting to know that Margao Curry is exported to Portugal and elsewhere.

Popular Things to See in Margao

• Municipal Garden
• The Holy Spirit Church
• House of Seven Gables
• Damodar Temple
• Pandava Caves
• Margao Market
• Zalor Beach
• Sri Chandranath
• 15 Best Weekend Getaways from Goa for Couples

Vasco da Gama: Mostly the beaches!

The city of Vasco da Gama is named after the Portuguese explorer. If you are planning to visit Goa to spend time on its beaches, then this is where you need to be. There are several beaches like Cansaulim, which is great for watching the setting sunset, or Hollant, perfect for a wild ride with your friends! There are other attractions too, like the St. Andrews’s Church which is 400 years old. There’s also a Naval Aviation Museum, which is one of three such museums in India. If you visit it in March though, you can attend the Shigmo, a festival marked by street dances and colourful parades.

Popular Things to See in Vasco da Gama

• Mormugao Fort
• Arossim Beach
• Bogmalo Beach
• Cansualim Beach
• Velsao Beach
• Hollant Beach
• St. Andrew’s Church
• Kesarval Waterfalls
• Sahakari Spice Farm
• Naval Aviation Museum
• Shri Ramnath Temple
• Three Kings Church
• 20 Popular Places of Tourist Interest in North Goa

Mapusa: Off to the Friday Bazaar!

There are many reasons to visit Mapusa during your Goa tour, but one that mentions a special mention is the Mapusa Friday Market. Held every Friday, a visit takes you across stalls selling Goan spices, homemade sausages, fish with marsala ready to cook, vegetables, chillies, cashews and sweets. Located in the Bardez sub-district, it enjoys a close proximity to several beaches like Vagator & Chapora.

Best Things to See in Mapusa

• Bodgeshwar Temple
• Mapusa Friday Bazaar
• St. Jerome Church
• Maruti Temple
• Cansaulim Church
• Church of Our Lady of Miracles
• Municipal Building (for its architecture)
• 20 Best Holiday Luxury Villas in Goa

Calangute: A town with the Queen of Beaches!

Calangute Beach is counted among the most beautiful beaches of Goa, and that is precisely why this town in Bardez district makes it to any Goa travel guide. On any given day on the beach, your eyes will meet scores of backpackers and tourist, all having a great time! There are shacks, lots of clubs, shows being held, open air dances being performed and people enjoying adventure sports like parasailing and water skiing.

Popular Things to See in Calangute

• Calangute Beach
• St. Alex Church
• Tibetan Market
• 15 Top Places to Visit in South Goa

Candolim: As relaxed as it gets!

Candolim, just like Calangute, attracts tourists in Goa for its prime attraction, Candolim Beach . However, if you like your beaches crowded & noisy with a party like atmosphere, you won’t find much to do here! It is for you though, if all you are looking forward to is a sunbath, admiring the sunset, maybe a dip & enjoying parasailing. One other reason that you should visit the beach is the “River Princess”, a bulk carrier which ran aground 100 meters ashore. Pick a sunbed, watch the waves kiss the shore while they are tinged with red & yellow during sunrise and sunset.

Best Things to See in Candolim

• Candolim Beach
• Our Lady of Hope Church
• Top 15 Luxury Resorts & Hotels for Holidaying in Goa

Anjuna: Still a bit hippy after all these years!

If you took a trip to Goa in the 1960’s & visited the village of Anjuna, you would find yourself in the middle of trance parties, hippies in psychedelic colours & free spirited backpackers. Today, you will find all sorts of tourists, both domestic & international, with some traces of that hippie era. One way of getting a feel of that is visiting the Flea Market, which opens on Wednesdays. You can lay hands on all kinds of stuff from sarongs, sandalwood & leather goods to crystals & stones. The other top place to visit is the Anjuna Beach , comparatively less crowded among the other beaches in Goa. To experience the trance scene, visit it in the evening and head towards restaurants like Curlies or Shiva Valley.

Popular Things to See in Anjuna

• Wednesday Flea Market
• Anjuna Beach
• Top 10 Water Adventure Activities to Experience in Goa

Bambolim: So quiet, so lively!

Bambolim will always find a mention among the top 10 places to visit in Goa for its beach. It is a long white sandy stretch of sand, rocks and happily swaying coconut palms which serves both aesthetical & functional purposes (such as, offering shade from the midday sun). On some days, you might see groups of young boys & girls chilling out, but what you will often see are fishermen getting ready to go fishing. It is also a great picnic spot in Goa for a family, as it is pretty secluded and free from vendors and shacks. There is a Bambolim Beach Resort though, where you can try out a variety of cuisines, from Goan to Continental delights.

Popular Things to See in Bambolim

• Bambolim Beach
• Popular Bar, Pubs & Clubs in Goa

Agonda: Time and tide wait for Agonda!

Agonda is a top travel destination in South Goa, as much for its “silent beach” as for the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles which lay their nests on it in September. The village by the beach is surrounded by dense vegetation, and is a place where you quite forget to remember words like “time” and “hurry”. Watch the waves of the Arabian Sea lapping the shore, cows enjoying a leisurely stroll and dogs having the time of their life! People who have visited Goa describe it as a top beach destination, it’s not to understand why!

Things to See

• Agonda Beach
• Top Secluded Beaches in India

Old Goa: Sweeping splendour & grandeur!

There was a time when the capital of Goa was not Panaji but Velha Goa, better known as Old Goa today. It was a time when the grandeur and unparalleled splendour swept through the city, much of which was visible in its towering churches, cathedrals and majestic convents. It is those spectacular pieces of architecture that have secured for Old Goa a permanent place in any sightseeing tour. The popular tourist attractions that attract tourists today, are collectively referred to as “Churches and Convents of Goa”, and include monuments like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites). This is the side of Goa that many more people need to see, a side that displays its rich history and heritage.

Popular Things to See in Old Goa

• Basilica of Bom Jesus (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Se Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Church of Our Lady of the Rosary (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Church of St. Francis of Assisi (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Chapel of Santa Catarina (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Ruins of the Church of St. Augustine (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Church of Divine Providence (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Top 20 Places That Should Be in Your India Travel Itinerary

Mandrem: A sleepy coastal village!

How about visiting a beach in Goa which also offers the opportunity to enjoy an Ayurvedic massage? Mandrem, a sleepy coastal village makes it to this list of top tourist places in Goa for its beach, which is perhaps the quietest in all of North Goa. It is lined with a few beach shacks and some hotels that offer some amazing food, including local delicacies. You can also hire sunbeds and spend a day getting a suntan and spending some quality time. If you are up for a massage, there is a small massage center where you can get one!

Things to see

• Mandrem Beach
• 30 Best Honeymoon Destinations in India

Morjim: Nesting site of Olive Ridley Sea Turtles!

Don’t bother visiting the town of Morjim stretched out on the banks of River Chapora if seclusion, solitude and tranquillity isn’t your thing. Visit it if you want a quiet day out on the beach enjoying the sunset, enjoying a few local delicacies and taking a walk in the village. Families and friends searching for a top beach destination without the usual commotion should head here. Morjim is also a nesting site for the endangered Olive Ridley Sea Turtle. You will find a post with a board on the beach pinpointing the spot where the turtles hatch their eggs. It is a wonderful site to come across!

• Morjim Beach
• Olive Ridley Sea Turtles
• Why You Must Visit These 15 Ancient Cities in India

Sanquelim: Nature & Heritage!

The town of Sanquelim finds a place in the popular tourist attractions in Goa for the Harvalem Caves, Harvalem Waterfalls and Rudreshwar Temple. All of these three tourist places can be covered in one trip itself. The Harvalem Caves are a set of caves named after the five Pandavas of the Mahabharata. The caves themselves were excavated into the Laterite Hill and consist of two major caves including a residential chamber. Just 1 kilometer from here lie the Harvalem Waterfalls, which attain their fullest glory during the monsoons, and the Rudreshwar Temple, located close to the waterfall.

Popular Things to See

• Harvalem Caves
• Harvalem Waterfalls
• Rudreshwar Temple
• Most Celebrated Religious & Cultural Festivals and Fairs in India

 Ponda: Heritage and the smell of spices!

Another tourist destination in North Goa where you can explore the rich heritage of Goa is Ponda, with its temples, an ancient mosque and beautiful spice farms. One of these is the Sahakari Spice Farm, a visit to which acquaints you with various types of spices. The farm is set in a tropical garden. There are also a few stalls where you can purchase spices and oils. Tropical Spice Plantation is another spice farm where you see trees like Mexican Mirchi, Pepper Tree and Lavender Tree. It’s interesting to see & know about the various trees and plants which lend that peculiar taste to our food and make it so delicious!

Popular Things to See in Ponda

• Tropical Spice Plantation
• Shri Mahalasa Temple
• Mahalaxmi Temple
• Laxmi Narasimha Temple
• Safa Shahouri Masjid
• Vijaya Durga Temple
• Shri Nagueshi Temple
• Savoi Spice Plantation
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
• Rich Mughal Art and Architecture: Historical Monuments in India

Bicholim – Offbeat Nature Getaway

Home to the most scenic waterfalls at Aravalem, oldest mosques, ancient Hindu temples and Mayem Lake, Bicholim is a beautiful countryside to explore in Goa for a relaxing holiday. The popular Saptakoteshwar temple is the major tourist attraction here. Despite having no beaches, it is a blissful haven for nature lovers. The picture postcard settings, ancient rock caves add delight to the mind if you are interested in sightseeing of historical places. Though not much to see in terms of tourist places, this place is still worth a visit for a relaxing escapade into the lap of nature.

Popular Things to See in Bicholim

• Aravalem Waterfalls
• Saptakoteshwar Temple

Location – North Goa

Also Read: Beach Tourism in Goa

Sanguem, South Goa – Loners Paradise

Your travel experience will remain incomplete if you don’t visit Sanguem. It is one of the lesser-known destinations to visit in Goa. Though it does not fit in the commercial tourism destinations   in Goa, this place is worth a visit. It is blessed with numerous tourist attractions which will surprise you to the core of your heart. It boasts of mysterious caves in Rivona, which is also known as Pandava Caves the kind of which you will not find anywhere else. It is said that Pandavas of Mahabharata lived in these caves during their exile. Lots of spice plantations, dams and waterfalls makes Sanguem scenic and soothing to the heart and eyes. It’s not a place where you can enjoy the pleasure of beaches but if you want to experience something different from the usual beaches of Goa, Sanguem is a place for you.

Popular Things to See in Sanguem

• Rivona Caves
• Rivona Springs
• Vimleshwar Temple
• Tanshikar Spice Farm
• Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple
• Salaulim Dam

Location – South Goa

Also Read: Must Visit Beach Destinations in Goa

Quepem – Retreat for Magical Holidays

The lesser-known village of Quepem will enchant you forever with its serenity and tranquility. For a relaxed holiday it is the best place to visit in Goa. It is a small village but you will find everything here. Historical Landmarks, scenic Dams, Churches, awesome Beaches, Restaurants and stunning Temples. The tale of Bhoja Kings to the Portuguese rulers, this place echoes their history in the form of temples and dams. Don’t miss the authentic Seafood in Quepem, it is one of a kind. You must visit this place to blend in the secluded serenity of nature.

Top Places to Visit in Quepem

• Shri Chandranath Temple
• Shri Damodar Temple
• Kushavati River
• Morpila SacredGrove
• Chandranath Hill
• 2000 years old Banyan tree
• Canaguinim Beach
• Betul Beach

Also Read:  Top Things to Do in Goa

Valpoi – Adventure Paradise

Valpoi is a must visit tourist destination in Goa for nature lovers and adventurers. The thrills of water rafting, soothing Chorla Ghats and Vagheri hills for trekking and hiking, rocky hills, dense forests, the magnificent and ruined Nanus Fort, serene temples and mosques and the forever blissful Veluz Nagargaon Bridge will definitely blow your heart away. This village’s lifestyle, culture, festivals and folk songs are another delightful treat to make your journey here one of a kind.

Popular Things to See in Valpoi

• River Mhadei
• Veluz Nagargaon Bridge
• Chorla Ghats
• Vagheri Hills
• Charavane Waterfall
• Brahma Temple
• Diamond Sports Club

Location – North Goa  

• Best Time to Visit Goa
• Popular Points of Tourist Interest of Goa
• How to Reach Goa ?
• Destination Wedding in Goa

Canacona: It’s all about the beaches!

The city of Canacona lies in close proximity to wonderful beaches like Patnem, Rajbaga, Colomb and Talpona. Each of these beaches have something different to offer. At Palolem Beach, for example, you can go boating to Monkey, Honeymoon and Butterfly Islands. Talpona Beach, on the other hand, is untouched, pristine and secluded, with an extremely relaxed vibe.

Popular Things to See in Canacona

• Rajbaga Beach
• Colomb Beach
• Talpona Beach
• Palolem Beach
• 10 Breathtaking Destination in India For Your Inner Adventure Devil

These are the top 17 places to experience the best of Goa that cover its various attractions including beaches, churches, spice plantations, waterfalls and temples. What part about Goa tourism appeals to you the most, and how many of these tourist places in Goa have you visited? Share your experiences with us!

Check out: Affordable Tour Packages for Goa

Complete Updated Goa Tourist Holiday Travel Guide | Tour My India

Like & Follow our social media accounts at Twitter , Facebook , Linkedin & Instagram for getting the latest updates & offers on holiday packages.

Disclaimer: We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.

Q. What is the best time to visit Goa?

Goa can be visited throughout the year. Monsoons is the best time to visit it for its waterfalls, while winters are great for having a great time at its beaches.

Q. Which beaches of Goa are suitable for families?

Some of the beaches in Goa that are suitable for families are Morjim, Bambolim and Candolim.

Q. Does Goa have its own airport?

Yes, Goa has its own airport called Dabolim Airport or Goa International Airport.

Q. What type of accommodation is available in Goa?

Accommodation options in Goa are available in the form of resorts, hotels, beach shacks and guest houses, depending on your preference and budget. There are five star luxury suites as well as budget hotels, villas, midrange hotels, upmarket hotels and long term rentals.

Q. Which places in Goa are suitable for senior citizens?

Some of the places in Goa that are suitable for senior citizens are Old Goa, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Aguada Fort and Basilica of Bom Jesus.

Q. Where can I experience the nightlife of Goa?

Some of the best nightclubs in Goa where you can experience its nightlife are Tito’s Bar and Club, Club Cubana, Sinq Night Club, Baga Beach and Candolim Beach (for night beach parties).

Q. Do I need a COVID-19 test to visit Goa?

No, you do not need a COVID-19 negative certificate to visit Goa. Domestic travellers too do not need to produce a COVID-19 negative report while arriving at the airport.

Published: 12 Nov, 2020 | Last Updated:  10 Mar, 2022

About the author

Vishwajit Sharma

Writing, for me, is an artistic expression of the countless thoughts flooding my mind. For now, travel content writing is what keeps me going! In my spare time, I like nothing better than immersing myself in a book, along with a cuppa! A classic movie helps too! I define traveling as a process of self-discovery. Hailing from Darjeeling, my ultimate desire is to escape to the hills, with the mountain air and solitude as my constant companions!

Recent Trending Posts

June 10,2024

Uttarakhand’s Trekking Tragedy: What Can We Learn About Having Safe Treks?

June 6,2024

6 Best Places to Visit in Kerala with Family & Kids on Your Next Vacation

June 4,2024

22 Top Resorts that Make for Great Weekend Getaways from Delhi

• Hill Stations
• Travel Deals
• Amazing Facts
• Travel Experience
• Travel Tips
• Travel Alerts
• Travel Videos
• Edu-Tourism
• Inspirational People

Popular Posts

May 30,2014

20 Highway Dhabas that You Must Stop By

February 12,2014

Top 15 Places for Honeymoon in North East India

September 6,2014

12 Best Beaches in Maharashtra

October 31,2013

Top 15 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Kerala

Top 10 Places for Spa Services in Delhi

International posts.

November 8,2023

10 Best Beaches in Thailand

November 3,2023

Tourism Update – Enjoy Visa Free Holiday Travel in Sri Lanka

Thailand Tourism Update- Indian Travelers Now Get a Visa-Free Entry to Thailand!

Explore best places to visit in india by month.

Best Places in January

Best Places in February

Best Places in March

Best Places in April

Best Places in May

Best Places in June

Best Places in July

Best Places in August

Best Places in September

Best Places in October

Best Places in November

Best Places in December

India tourism important information resources, north india.

• Uttarakhand
• Jammu & Kashmir

South India

• Pondicherry
• Andhra Pradesh
• Mahararashtra
• Dadra Nagar Haveli
• Daman & Diu

Luxury Trains

• Maharaja Express
• Palaces on Wheels
• The Golden Chariot
• The Deccan Odyssey
• Majestic Tourist Train

Quick Links

• Kumbh Mela Haridwar 2021
• MICE Tourism

72 Hours in Goa

Day Trips From Goa

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Yoga Retreats and Wellness Resorts

Top Restaurants in Goa

Nightlife in Goa

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Goa Dabolim International Airport Guide

Top Places to Visit in Goa

6 Popular Places to Visit in Goa

What to See and Do in Goa

Goa is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in India. People travel from far and wide to this small state for its diverse mix of beaches, adrenaline activities, parties, nature, and history. One of the best ways to see all that Goa India has to offer is by hiring a motorbike or scooter and exploring at leisure. These places to visit in Goa are popular.

Want to go beyond the usual tourist attractions? Check out  11 Cultural Things to Do in Goa .

Goa's long stretch of sandy coastline is renowned for its multitude of beaches. There's something on offer for everyone, from luxury resorts to makeshift huts and trance parties to tranquility. The Goa India beach that's right for you will depend on the kind of experience you want to have. Want water sports? Head to Baga. Want to hang with the hippies. Try Arambol. Prefer isolation? Agonda or Patnem might be the beach for you.

The Anjuna flea market is held every Wednesday from morning until evening except during the monsoon season  on the southern end of Anjuna Beach. The market has exploded in size and attracts people from all over Goa. It's now got over 500 stalls and is still growing. You'll find a huge assortment of goods there, but make sure you bargain. After a day of shopping until you drop, head over to Curly's beach shack and take in the sunset scene there.

If one market isn't enough for you, the very hip Saturday Night Market and Mackie's Night Bazaar, both in the Arpora Baga area, are also worth checking out. They offer entertainment, including live music, as well as an eclectic range of food.

Latin Quarter and Portuguese Mansions

TripSavvy / Gautier Houba

Capital city Panaji is worth visiting for its Fontainhas neighborhood. Declared a UNESCO Heritage Zone in 1986, it gets its name (meaning "fountain") from the fountain at the foot of the hill. You'll be transported back in time as you wander past colorful old Portuguese homes, belonging to the last surviving Portuguese families of Goa. Narrow winding streets and lanes, quaint shops, art galleries, bakeries, and restaurants give it an undeniable charm. Plan your visit with this essential guide to Fontainhas.

Once the magnificent Portuguese capital of Goa India, these days all that remains of Old Goa is a handful of imposing churches and cathedrals. They are among the largest in Asia, though. Some of the buildings have now become archaeological museums, and provide a fascinating display of Goa's history.

One of the most interesting buildings in Old Goa is the Convent and Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, built in 1521. Just opposite is the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the preserved remains of the body of Saint Francis Xavier, a revered missionary and the patron saint of Goa. The body is shown to the public every 10 years (the last exhibition happened in early 2015). Old Goa is situated not far from Panjim, Goa's current capital.

Goa Tourism's open-top Hop on Hop Off Bus departs from Panjim and provides an inexpensive way of getting to Old Goa. Tickets cost 300 rupees.

Spice Plantations

Another highlight of a trip to Goa India is the spice plantations in the dense jungle around Ponda. Goa's lush tropical climate makes it an ideal place to grow spices. The spice farms are open to visitors. You can take a guided tour, enjoy the picturesque scenery, and finish with a spicy lunch.

One of the oldest and most acclaimed plantations in Goa is the 130-acre Sahakari Spice Farm , located around 40 minutes from Panaji. Others include the Tropical Spice Plantation , Savoi Plantation , and Pascol Spice Village . Accommodations, and other activities such as elephant or boat rides, are offered at many of the farms. If you're interested in Ayurvedic herbs and organic farming, don't miss Sai Abyss Herbarium, run by an Ayurvedic doctor. It's situated just outside Savoi-Verem village.

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Goa India isn't just all about beaches and churches. The state's location along the mountainous Western Ghats is home to an array of birds and animals. Around 20 percent of Goa consists of wildlife sanctuaries (about 290 square miles). They're open all year round, although October to March are the best months to visit.

The two main sanctuaries are Bhagwan Mahavir (of which Mollem National Park is a part) and Cotigao. On the fringe of the Mollem National Park, you'll find the imposing Dudhsagar Falls, where the water rages down from a huge height during and just after the monsoon season. Accommodations, provided by the Goa Forest Department, are available at both sanctuaries. For a very eco-friendly stay, try a mud hut at the Shanti Nature Resort in Mollem National Park.

Goa in the Monsoon Season: Essential Travel Guide

Essential South Goa Travel Guide

12 Cultural Things to Do in Goa Beyond the Beaches and Bars

12 Irresistible Luxury Private Villas in Goa for Groups

Your Trip to Goa: The Complete Guide

3 Magnificent Portuguese Mansions in Goa that You Can Visit

The 13 Best Beaches in Goa

Palolem Beach Goa: Essential Travel Guide

Patnem Beach Goa: Essential Travel Guide

72 Hours in Goa: The Perfect Itinerary

The 14 Best Beaches in India

18 Farmstays in India to Get Back to Nature

Essential Guide to Goa's Fontainhas Latin Quarter

25 of the Hottest Clubs, Bars and Beach Shacks in Goa

How to Travel From Mumbai to Goa by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

13 Exceptional Homestays in India

Goa’s Big Pitch to Remote Workers

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

June 25th, 2024 at 6:10 AM EDT

Famous for its beaches and parties, Goa is getting a makeover to lure digital nomads. Did someone say all work and no play? Not in Goa!

Peden Doma Bhutia

Skift India Travel Podcast

Skift Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia is joined by business leaders, and experts from throughout the industry and Skift’s newsroom, to explore the challenges, opportunities, and trends shaping the Indian travel industry.

Long known as the party destination in India, Goa now feels the need to move beyond its image of beaches, nightlife and parties and is looking to present itself as an ideal destination for remote workers.

This week at the Skift India Travel Podcast catch Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia and India Reporter Bulbul Dhawan discuss this image makeover of the coastal state and why the launch of a sectoral index specifically to track travel listings is good news for investors and the tourism industry alike.

Launch of Nifty India Tourism Index: The National Stock Exchange of India launched the Nifty India Tourism Index. The index tracks travel and tourism companies within the Nifty 500 index. Includes 17 stocks with a cap of no single stock comprising more than 20% of the index. Aims to align with the Indian government’s push to make India a top tourist destination. The index has shown strong performance with a significant gain over the past year.

Recent IPOs and Investor Interest: Recent IPOs by TBO Tech and Exiggo have been oversubscribed, indicating strong investor interest. These developments reflect the robust growth potential of India’s travel and tourism sector.

India’s Expanding Tourism Footprint: The first direct flight between Cambodia and India highlights India’s importance in regional tourism. Indian tourists are increasingly seen as a key market for neighboring countries.

Goa as a Digital Nomad Hub: Goa is positioning itself as a destination for digital nomads. The state is working on improving infrastructure, including internet connectivity and co-working spaces. Goa’s tourism minister aims to diversify the state’s appeal beyond beaches and nightlife.

Delhi International Airport’s Self-Service Baggage Drop: Introduction of self-service baggage quick drop facilities at Terminals 1 and 3. Aimed at reducing check-in times and enhancing passenger experience.The system claims to reduce baggage drop time to 30 seconds without the need for biometric validation or boarding pass scanning.

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast | Google Podcasts | YouTube | RSS

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Skift India Travel Podcast, Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia and India Reporter Bulbul Dhawan delve into the latest developments in the travel sector, focusing on the recent launch of the Nifty India Tourism Index by the National Stock Exchange of India. They discuss its significance, structure, and potential impact on the Indian economy and investors. This episode of the podcast explores the implications of this new index amidst the backdrop of recent IPOs by travel companies like TBO Tek and Ixigo.

The podcast also touches upon India’s growing role as a significant player in the global tourism industry, highlighted by the inaugural direct flight between Cambodia and India and the e-visa facility that Taiwan wants to extend to Indian travelers.

There is also a discussion on the burgeoning trend of digital nomadism in Goa, where the beach destination looks to promote itself to remote workers. And for that wants to out infrastructure in place to attract these tourists. Goa’s tourism minister aims to diversify the state’s appeal beyond beaches and nightlife.

Lastly, the introduction of a self-service baggage quick drop facility at Delhi International Airport, aims to enhance passenger convenience. The newly installed machines are an upgrade from the self baggage drop facility installed by the airport at terminal 3 last year. The newly installed 50 machines across the two terminals are meant to facilitate faster baggage check-ins within 30 seconds, as per the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL).

The Daily Newsletter

Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: india podcast , skift podcast

Photo credit: Skift India Travel Podcast.

Thank you for visiting nature.com. You are using a browser version with limited support for CSS. To obtain the best experience, we recommend you use a more up to date browser (or turn off compatibility mode in Internet Explorer). In the meantime, to ensure continued support, we are displaying the site without styles and JavaScript.

• View all journals
• Explore content
• About the journal
• Sign up for alerts
• 25 June 2024

Regulate surging tourism in Antarctic, treaty partners say

• Sahana Ghosh

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Antarctic sea ice cover hit record lows in 2017, 2022, and 2023. Credit: NCPOR

Amid geopolitical shifts and decreasing sea ice 1 , parties to the Antarctic Treaty are moving to regulate tourism on the continent.

The 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) in Kerala in May 2024 focused attention on responsible tourism to preserve the icy continent’s ecology. The International Union for Conservation of Nature warns that existing regulations, like the Madrid Protocol of the Antarctic Treaty System, fail to protect against tourism impacts, including site damage, travel route disruptions, and wildlife disturbances.

A management plan for tourism in the region is urgently needed as parties to the treaty worry about environmental and biosecurity implications, says Thamban Meloth, Director at the Goa-based National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR).

A record 122,072 people visited Antarctica in the 2023-2024 austral season, reports the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. Most ships depart from South America to the Antarctic Peninsula, with peak tourist time coinciding with penguin breeding season. Adventure activities such as skiing, snowboarding, ice walking, snorkeling, and scuba diving are steadily increasing in Antarctica, a continent with no native human inhabitants. “Developing this legally binding framework is complex due to Antarctica's unique status as a global commons. It will require consensus within the treaty system, taking several years to mature,” says Meloth.

Tourism in Antarctica began in the 1950s, raising concerns about its potential to disrupt scientific research 2 . This led to the first Antarctic tourism resolution in 1966 by the ATCM, urging member states to withhold permission to visit Antarctic stations without assurances of treaty compliance.

Tourism in Antarctica surged with the MS Explorer in 1969 and regular flights from Argentina a year later. Over the next two decades, mineral exploration and sovereignty issues overshadowed tourism concerns, which nonetheless expanded. In the 1990s, tourism regained attention.

In a 2007 Delhi meeting, India advocated for responsible tourism realising that it cannot be stopped. “There’s good scope for Antarctic tourism from India, with Goa as a gateway. But we must have a multilateral legally binding agreement,” says Rasik Ravindra, a former NCPOR director and former vice-president of the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research.

India's two operational research stations, Maitri and Bharti, along with the now-abandoned Dakshin Gangotri, a designated historical site under the ATS, could attract Indian travelers. India recently announced plans to commission Maitri’s successor by 2029. Ravindra emphasized that well-planned tourism could educate the public about environmental changes in Antarctica, garnering support for its protection. Recent research 3 indicates that Antarctic sea-ice decline impacts the summer monsoon more than Arctic ice loss, highlighting record lows in 2017, 2022, and 2023, and underscoring the importance of Antarctic research for India.

Geopolitical tensions, particularly the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, have driven up scientific costs by 30%, due to disruptions in supply chains and energy. Indian Antarctic expeditions, typically budgeted at 95-100 crores annually, now hover at 125-130 crores, says Meloth, reflecting increased complexities despite the Antarctic Treaty’s protective measures.

To manage costs, countries like India rely on collaborative logistics, often with nations like Russia, known for robust Antarctic assets. "We must match contributions in cash or kind (logistics) to uphold this support," emphasizes Ravindra, stressing the need for strategic financial preparedness amid rising scientific expense.

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d44151-024-00097-5

Purich, A. et al. Commun Earth Environ 4, 314 (2023).

Article   Google Scholar  

Ravindra, R. Should India Encourage Tourism in Antarctica? (2018).

Google Scholar  

Chandra, V. & Sandeep, S. Clim Dyn (2024).

Download references

Reprints and permissions

2024 Recruitment notice Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology: Shenzhen, China

The wide-ranging expertise drawing from technical, engineering or science professions...

Shenzhen,China

Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology

Recruitment of Talent Positions at Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University

Call for top experts and scholars in the field of science and technology.

Shenyang, Liaoning, China

Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University

Position Opening for Principal Investigator GIBH

We aim to foster cutting-edge scientific and technological advancements in the field of molecular tissue biology at the single-cell level.

Guangzhou, Guangdong, China

Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health(GIBH), Chinese Academy of Sciences

Endowed Chair in Macular Degeneration Research

Dallas, Texas (US)

The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UT Southwestern Medical Center)

Postdoctoral Fellow

Postdoc positions on ERC projects – cellular stress responses, proteostasis and autophagy

Frankfurt am Main, Hessen (DE)

Goethe University (GU) Frankfurt am Main - Institute of Molecular Systems Medicine

Sign up for the Nature Briefing newsletter — what matters in science, free to your inbox daily.

Quick links

• Explore articles by subject
• Guide to authors
• Editorial policies