Must-visit places in Goa: Considered one of the most exotic places to travel, Goa is one of India’s best, most beautiful, and most popular tourist attractions, thanks to its pleasant weather, vibrant nightlife, scrumptious seafood, thrilling water activities, and more. It fascinates and attracts every age group for the variety of activities they can experience in this beautiful island city. The list of things to do and visit in Goa is endless. There are various tourist attractions worth seeing, from stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes, heritage sites, spice plantations, etc. One can enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic massage or go on a history stroll through the Latin quarters or party the whole night in the buzzing lanes of the city. Goa stands out for the diversity of experiences it offers.
Here we look at the top 10 must-visit places in Goa:
1. Anjuna Market
Anjuna Flea Market in Goa is a shopper’s paradise where you may find a treasure trove of souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, and collectables for a fraction of the cost. This weekly market began in the 1960s as a method for hippies to barter their one-of-a-kind items. This flea market used to be held on a tiny section of the beach, but now it stretches from the beach’s golden sands to the paddy fields, with numerous kiosks selling snacks. It is one of the most popular must-visit places in Goa.
Address: Monteiro Vaddo, Anjuna, Goa
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2. Basilica of Bom Jesus
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is the oldest church in Goa, with magnificent Baroque architecture. The construction of this church, which began in 1594 and was consecrated in 1605, is said to coincide with the birth of Christianity in India. The relics of St. Francis Xavier, a close companion of St. Ignatius Loyola, with whom he founded the Society of Jesus, are still kept in this church. Since 1999, the basilica has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most popular must-visit places in Goa when it comes to churches.
Address: Old Goa Road, Bainguinim, Goa
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3. Divar Island
Goa is not just about beaches but entire islands that are yet to be commercialized. One such island is Divar Island. This tiny settlement evokes memories of a trip to the Goan countryside. It has a church that dates back to the 18th century, a serene and mesmerizing lake, and isolated roads brimming with greenery, making it the perfect place for a peaceful day out. Bonderam is a well-known festival that attracts many visitors to Divar Island.
Address: Mandovi River, Goa
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4. Aguada Fort
Fort Aguada is a big and magnificent 400-year-old citadel that defines the landscape of Goa. Together with its lighthouse, the fort is one of Goa’s most popular tourist destinations. Fort Aguada is located near Candolim, a famous tourist destination in North Goa, and overlooks the Arabian Sea and the surrounding environs. This seventeenth-century fort is an icon of Portuguese heritage and architecture and a must-visit place in your itinerary.
Address: Aguada Fort Area, Candolim, Goa
5. Dudhsagar falls
With 310 metres (1017 feet) and an average width of 30 metres, Dudhsagar Falls is one of India’s tallest four-tiered waterfalls (100 feet). Because of its compelling natural beauty and spectacular atmosphere, this magnificent waterfall is one of the top sites near Goa. The presence of this beautiful four-tier waterfall in the blockbuster film Chennai Express in 2013 increased its popularity, making it one of the most famous tourist destinations in Goa.
Address: Sonaulim, Goa
6. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife sanctuary
Hailed as the largest wildlife sanctuary, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary should be on everyone’s list of places to visit in Goa. It is home to many exotic animals, 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). It is a heaven for all wildlife enthusiasts.
Address: Mollem, Goa
7. Butterfly Beach
Butterfly beach can be found to the north of Palolem Beach. It is one of Goa’s quietest and least-visited beaches, ideal for people seeking peace and alone. A large number of rocks surround Butterfly Beach. The paddleboat journey to the beach is exciting, and there are several dolphins to view along the way. One can also embark on a long trek through the dense forest to reach this hidden gem.
Address: Near Palolem
8. Tito’s Lane
Tito’s, one of Goa’s most famous nightclubs, is located in Baga. The pub, which Tito Henry de Souza founded in 1971, is synonymous with Goa’s nightlife. Tito’s lane is the name given to the entire lane in Baga, where the pub is located. It’s a must-visit for tourists looking to experience the fantastic nightlife of Goa.
Address: Baga, Goa
9. Tanshikar’s working spice farm
Tanshikar’s Working Spice Farm & Ecological Rest House offers visitors a glimpse into the local spice scene. This agritourism attraction uses organic agricultural methods to grow different spices: pepper, vanilla, nutmeg, turmeric, cardamom, and chile. Tours of the farm, frequently given by the owner, provide for an in-depth study of these flavour-packed crops and an opportunity to observe some of the other items grown on the property, such as betelnut, coffee beans, pineapple, and banana. Tanshikar’s also raises bees and makes its organic honey.
Address: near Smriti Yoga, Netravali, Sanguem, Goa
10. Thalassa
Thalassa is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Goa, not only for its outstanding Greek and Mediterranean cuisines but also for its stunning coastline and sunset views. On the route from Siolim via the seaside road, ‘Little Greece,’ also known as Thalassa Goa, is located on the northernmost tip of Vagator. There’s something for everyone with plenty of outdoor seating, live music, a beachside bar, delectable food, stylish businesses, and always-bustling crowds. When in North Goa, a trip to Thalassa Goa is well worth your time, especially after sunset.
Address: Vaddy, Siolim, Goa
Featured Image Credits: India Times
