Planning A Visit To Goa? Here Is What To See Here

Goa is a stark contrast to other urban areas in India, with its golden beaches and palm trees reaching the skyline, and the relaxed atmosphere. A short vacation to this beach paradise is enough to feel like a heavenly vacation. You will feel rejuvenated by the beauty and serenity that Goa has to offer. There are also plenty of activities and events that you can do or attend during your free time.

Tourists from all over the globe flock to Goa’s popular coastal hot spots like Palolem Beach and Colva Beach. Goa is not only known for its beaches, but it’s also one of India’s most popular destinations because of how culturally rich it is. It is home to unique Portuguese-influenced cuisines, historic churches and temples as well as fascinating spice farms and vibrant wildlife. You will regret not spending more time in Goa no matter how long you stay here. Here are some of the most important places to visit when in Goa-

• Table of Contents

  Toggle

  Fort Aguada-

Fort Aguada is a Portuguese fort built in the 17th century, looking over the Arabian Sea and Mandovi River confluence. It is located at the Sinquerim Beach, approximately 18km from Panjim. Its crumbling structure can still be seen on the Sinquerim Beach. The fort’s highlight is the lone, four-storey lighthouse that boasts of being one of its kind in Asia. From here, you canwitness a stunning viewof the sunset.

Fort Aguada was built to protect the Portuguese from the Dutch and Marathas, and was the most important and vital fort of that time. Named after the Portuguese word for water, it was once a source of freshwater to sailors. It can hold 2,376,000 gallons of water and is one of Asia’s largest freshwater reservoirs.

Fort Aguada was also used as a prison. The jail has a statue that stands saluting freedom fighters and gives the fort an air of patriotism.

• The Calangute beach-

Calangute Beach, located 15km from Panjim is the longest beach of North Goa. It stretches from Candolim and Baga. It is popular and large enough to attract tourists from all corners of the globe.

Calangute Beach is known as the “Queen of Beaches” in Goa and is one of the most popular beaches around the globe. It is also one of the most popular and commercial beaches in Goa. There are many bars, restaurants, and shacks here serving seafood, beer, and cocktails. Calangute Beach is well-known for its water sporting opportunities like parasailing, water surfing, banana rides, and jet-skiing.

Even though your day will be filled with fun on the beach, nightlife here calls for dancing and having fun. Calangute is a popular choice for those who want to stay longer in Goa— it keeps you connected to other beaches such as Candolim, Baga and Aguada.

• Fort Cabo de Rama

Located in South Goa, The Cabo De Rama Fort is 17.2 km from Agonda Beach. TheHindu, Portugueseand Muslim rulers have held this fort at different times. The Portuguese built quarters for commandants and a chapelinside the fort. This fort also had a military barrack. After the Portuguese fled, it was converted to a prison. It is now a tourist attraction. From the top, you can enjoy a spectacular sight of the ocean and surrounding landscape. What more? Sunsets look spectacular from this fort.

• Old Goa too is worth a visit-

Old Goa was once the Portuguese capital of India. Now, it is only a few churches or cathedrals that remain. These are, however, some of the most impressive in Asia. Many of these buildings are now archaeological museums and offer a fascinating view of Goa’s past.

Convent and Church of Saint Francis of Assisii is one of Old Goa’s most fascinating buildings. It was built in 1521. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is located just opposite to it. It contains the remains of Saint Francis Xavier’s body, a revered missionary who was also the patron saint of Goa. The body is displayed to the public once every 10 years. The last time it was shown was in early 2015.

Old Goa is located near Panjim.So, Goa Tourism’s open-top hop on-hop off bus that leaves from Panjim can take you to old Goa. It is an affordable way to get to this part of Goa. Tickets are also affordable.

• Grande Island-

Grande Island, also known as Ilha Grande, is located in the Arabian Sea. You can get ferry service from here. There are many activities that you can enjoy, including scuba diving and reef diving, snorkelling, fishing, swimming, and watching dolphins. This is a great spot for snorkelers and divers of all levels as you can enjoy many water sports here.

There are also many shipwrecks to explore, including the Turbo Tunnel and Davy Jones Locker. You can hire professional instructors for guidance. Bumper boat and banana boat rides are also available here. You will need to bring your beach and swimming gear for such activities though.Fishing trips can be taken here for an entire day. Then, finally you can wind up with some barbeque.

• Chapora Fort-

The Chapora Fort, which is known for its rich history, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Goa. It rose to prominence in recent years after movies began to showcase it. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views to almost all directions. This is a popular attractioninGoa and is a staple on sightseeing tours.

• Palolem beach-

It is one the most beautiful beaches in Goa. Palolem is also close to Agonda, a popular beach in south. Butterfly and the stunning Cola beach are also within easy reach. They are quieter though. Palolem is a popular party spot. Parties take place every Saturday in the southernmost section of Palolem. Palolem is a great place to relax or party but this place is best visited in winter. The northern end of Palolem has a wildlife park and a backwater for nature lovers.

Goa is a beautiful place and is not all about beaches and churches. There is so much to see here, it’s better not to plan short trips to Goa. Also, when you are here, make sure you stay at a resort. Resorts are extra fun and when it comes to Goa, there are amazing choices like the Leela. The most important benefit of booking the Leela Goais its unmatched, mesmerizing beauty.