Sruthi Nair
The smallest state of India, located in the western coast of India, beckons you to go and get allured in its charm by its points of interest. The beaches, the churches, the food and the comfortable stay will just marvel you. These are just some of the reasons why this place is known as the Paradise of Tourists.
The tourism in Goa is huge in nature and the heavily touristy state just never gets old. The ultimate party destination of the whole country, and the most revered holy place of various religions, Goa balances out the two spectrum’s of life with great glory.
Best Places to Visit in Goa & Top Things To Do – 2018
1. Calangute Beach- The queen of Beaches
Speciality: The Golden sand and the golden rays of the majestic sun provide a picturesque image. Also the nightlife here is to die for! Check out more amazing nightlife places in Goa here. The water sports and the various shops provide an ideal vacation.
Located: 15km from Panaji
How to reach: The most exciting way to reach this place or any other place in Goa, is to take a scooter and ride till there. But if you are in a large group, you can take a vehicle and drive till there or take a bus.
2. Basilica of Bom Jesus- Let the Good Jesus save you
Speciality: It holds the remains of the famous St. Francis Xavier who formed the Jesuits community. It also has an excellent, one of a kind architecture which is a must see for people of all kinds.
Located: Old Goa
How to reach: There are several busses in a day which connect Old Goa (where the basilica is located) to Panaji which is the capital city of Goa. Again, you can hire a vehicle to go to Old Goa, where lots of other sites are also located.
3. Anjuna Beach- White, lustrous sand
Speciality: Soft waves brushing past your legs in the overwhelming blanket of palm trees covering the sides of the beach and during the night time, the full moon illuminating the whole silver sand in the most jovial fashion. The description itself is so alluring that we want to pack our entire bag and leave for this beach right now. The flea market here is widely known and popular among all tourists.
Image Credit : Flick User – Nitesh Bharti
Located: The distance from Dabolim airport is 45 km.
How to reach: People usually take bicycles or motorcycles to reach the place. But if you are not that adventurous, you can hire a vehicle. Walking is the best way to see the remaining part of the beach once you reach there, as you get to explore each and every part in minute detail.
4. Dona Paula bay- The tragic story of two lovers
Speciality: Commonly known as the lovers point, Donna Paula bay is known for the legend which tell the tragic tale of two star crossed lovers who had to jump to their death at the apparent separation they would have to endure at the hands of the society.
Located: 7 km from the Panaji
How to reach: Located at such a short distance from the city centre, makes it a hub for people to go and chill. So you can take a bike or a vehicle to reach the place.
5. Baga Beach – Let the nightlife get to you
Speciality: The Baga beach and Baga creek hosts thousands of tourists annually. But the most happening thing about the beach is its lighted up nightlife with amazing parties and multi-coloured phases.
Located: 40.5 km from Dabolim airport
How to reach: The short distance from the city centre makes it a great location for short trips. Vehicles are available to hire from the airport.
6. Fort Aguada – History Meets Geographical Brilliance
Speciality: The long standing fort and lighthouse is a splendid example of Portuguese architecture in Goa. It was built in the 1600s as a protection against the Dutch and the Marathas has stood and faced all the taunts and trolls of the waves which beat the backstories of the Fort.
Located: in Aguada-Siolim Road in Sinquerim, Candolim part of Goa.
How to reach: Busses/vehicles from the capital of the state or any other part of the state.
7. Miramar Beach- Secluded and Attractive
Speciality: The knee deep water is ideal for swimming and lying around in the waters. My favourite beach from the whole lot, I had to add it because it was calm and secluded without the usual bustle of the other tourists.
Located: Located at a very short distance from the city centre (at just 4.1 km) from Panaji.
How to reach: You can even walk to the place from Panaji if you are into brisk walking!
8. Se Cathedral
Speciality: Dedicated to the revered St Catherine, it’s an important centre for Latin Rite Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Goa and Daman. The white facade is beautiful and wondrous to see.
Located: Old Goa
How to reach: Hire a vehicle from Panaji to go to Old Goa (Velha Goa)
9. Dhudhsagar Waterfalls- The Merciless Cascading of Milk
Speciality: This place is a picture straight out of anyone’s dreams. The water which descends down to earth is pure white in colour which looks like milk cascading down from the rocks. This is how the scenic location came to be named.
Located: 60 km away from the Panaji airport.
How to reach: Taxis and other vehicles are available for easy travelling.
10. Vagator Beach
Speciality: Most famous for its rave parties which go on up to late hours of the night and also sometimes see the break of dawn. There are several water sports which can be done on this beach which make the beach’s popularity peak.
Located: 45 minutes from the city centre (20.8km)
How to reach: A number of vehicles can take you from Goa airport to Vagator beach.
What do you want? History, Adventure, Beaches, Serenity, everything is available in Goa. Plan your vacation now!
