52 Best Places to Visit in Goa in 2023: ✔Location, Activities

Beachside bliss, trance parties, sizzling nightlife and gourmet temptations – Goa is all these and so much more! A kaleidoscopic destination, Goa is a punch of flavours that packs in fun, frivolousness, culture, heritage and even a sublime dose of spirituality. The buzzing place celebrates the idea of a carefree life like no other destination in India. At the same time, it tantalises you to soak in the splendour of Portuguese colonial ancestry that is laced with a dip of Indian culture. Such is the exotic beauty of Goa!

This sand-based party destination is a spectacular package of numerous known and lesser-known attractions. How about treating yourself to a trail of some of the most enticing treasures of Goa that definitely deserve to be on your must-visit list? Interested, are you? Then fasten your seatbelts and here you go!

Learn about Goa’s history, geography and climate.

Beaches in Goa – Bountiful Nature

Baga	Calangute	Candolim
Sinquerim	Vagator	Anjuna
Palolem	Arambol	Agonda
Morjim	Butterfly	Colva

Everything else can take a backseat when you are in the vicinity of the gorgeous beaches of Goa. Here’s our list of the most stunning golden-sand jewels from the region’s treasury.

1. Baga

Undoubtedly, the most famous and happening beach in Goa, Baga is known for its pulsating beach parties, exciting nightlife and delicious seafood. It is the perfect place to indulge in water sports and enjoy a sunbath during the day and dance to foot-tapping music at night, all in the company of a lively crowd.

• Famous For: Recreation area with water sports, eateries, bars, nightspots & a festive atmosphere
• Location: North Goa
• Top Activities: Parasailing and dolphin cruises
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Baga

2. Calangute

Termed the Queen of Beaches in Goa, Calangute’s drawcard is its shimmering golden sand and the whimsical rise and fall of waves. Peppered with sun lounges, cool restaurants, clubs, and shacks, the beach is a traveller’s delight. Because of its huge popularity among tourists, Calangute is one of the top 10 places to visit in Goa with family.

• Famous For: The nightlife of Calangute Beach is the best with crazy parties and live music
• Location: North Goa
• Top Activities: Water skiing and banana rides
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Calangute

Check out the hotels in goa in Calangute & Baga Road

3. Candolim

Picturesque beauty and serene atmosphere make Candolim a great spot to relax and rejuvenate during your beach holidays. The scrub-covered sand dunes are among the major attractions of this beach.

• Famous For: The Candolim Beach in Goa offers a peaceful environment and there are many shaft bars that offer the local taste of Goa
• Location: North Goa
• Top Activities: Kite surfing and paragliding
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Candolim

4. Sinquerim

Dotted with swaying palm trees, the captivating Sinquerim beach is the best place to spend a few tranquil moments, alone or with your crazy pack. The beach offers mesmerising views of the historic Fort Aguada.

• Famous For: Sinquerim Beach is one of the best places to visit in North Goa for watersports. It is well-known for its world-class parasailing, scuba diving, water skiing, windsurfing, and fishing amenities
• Location: North Goa
• Top Activities: Crocodile spotting, skiing and paragliding
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Sinquerim Fort

5. Vagator

Vagator exudes a laid-back feel while still being steeped in the rave culture. It is split into two beaches – Big Vagator and Small Vagator and is famous for its dramatic red cliffs.

• Famous For: Vagator Beach has black rock cliffs overlooking the water. The beach was rated one of the cleanest in Goa
• Location: North Goa
• Top Activities: Scuba diving, kayaking, and jet ski ride
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Vagator

6. Anjuna

Anjuna is a 30-km-long beach that features unusual rock formations and towering palm trees. Happening nightclubs, pubs, and Saturday night bazaar make it one of the most popular places to visit in Goa at night.

• Famous For: Anjuna is famous for trance parties held on its beach
• Location: North Goa
• Top Activities: Bumping rides, water scooters, trance parties, and flea market shopping
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Anjuna

7. Palolem

Shaped like a beautiful crescent, the palm-fringed Palolem beach boasts of stunning views and white sand and is regarded as Goa’s finest beach. Apart from indulging in water sports and sampling authentic Goan dishes, you can engage in some retail therapy from the Tibetan market shops lining the beach. Palolem is considered to be among the best places to visit in Goa for couples to spend some quality time.

• Famous For: Palolem Beach offers an opportunity of a lifetime to spot the Dolphins from a cruise
• Location: South Goa
• Top Activities: Swimming, attending a yoga class, dolphin spotting, and partying at a silent disco

8. Arambol

Arambol counts among the gorgeous beaches in Goa and for all the right reasons. A distinct Bohemian vibe and a string of budget accommodation options add to the popularity of the place.

• Famous For: Arambol Beach is also famous for the sweet water lagoon or lake that is located at the end of the adjacent beach
• Location: North Goa
• Top Activities: Attend a night party, yoga and meditation session, paragliding, kite surfing, and sunbathing
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Arambol

9. Agonda

A hidden gem, Agonda is an unspoiled scenic beach located in the southern region and certainly counts among the less-crowded beaches in Goa. The beach witnesses fewer crowds and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing or simply lazing around.

• Famous For: Agonda Beach is perfect for swimming and chilling
• Location: South Goa
• Top Activities: Swimming and beach walking

10. Morjim

Its natural beauty notwithstanding, Morjim beach is mainly popular as a nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles that can be seen here in large numbers. It is also a great place to spot various species of birds.

• Famous For:  Morjim is renowned as the nesting place for Olive Ridley turtles
• Location: North Goa
• Top Activities: Scuba diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, boating, and swimming
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Morjim

11. Butterfly

A secluded wonder, Butterfly Beach is among the most beautiful but less exploited beaches in Goa. You can find a variety of butterfly species on this beach. The beach is accessible only by boats as no roadways wind up to it.

• Famous For: Enclosed by a thick forest on one side and leading to the open sea on the other, the beach has a unique and picturesque landscape
• Location: South Goa
• Top Activities: Canoeing, boat riding, snorkelling and kayaking

12. Colva

Fringed with coconut trees, Colva is a serene beach that exhibits a unique charm of its own. The colourful fishing boats bobbing on the water add to the quaint beauty of the beach. This picturesque beach is one of the best places in Goa to visit for photography.

• Famous For: The 2.5 km long beach is known for its powdery white sands flanked by swaying coconut trees that add to its beauty
• Location: South Goa
• Top Activities: Candle-light dinners, swimming, parasailing, banana boat ride, and water scooter
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Colva

13. Baina Beach

Baina is a coastal gem in Goa, offering a perfect blend of sandy shores, azure waters, and a lively atmosphere. With its pristine beaches and a plethora of water sports activities, Baina attracts tourists from far and wide.  

• Famous For: This crescent-shaped beach lies between the Zuari Nagar hills on the right and the Dabolim plateau to the left. Baina Beach is famed as the site of India’s first-ever underwater sea walk.
• Location: South Goa
• Top Activities: Water sports, Explore the Japanese Garden, Visit the St. Andrew’s Church

14. Varca Beach

One who is looking forward to a tranquil and romantic holiday in Goa, far from the clamour of the tourists even during the peak season, the Varca Beach in Goa is a perfect pick. It also offers a utopian nature for people who seek meditation and yoga. Varca can be among the peaceful places to visit in Goa with friends. Down the shore, amidst the whispering palm grove, Varca Beach is dotted with exotic spa resorts where one can spend some idealistic and rejuvenating moments.

• Famous For: Picturesque beach known for its calm waters, wooden fishing boats & food vendors
• Location: South Goa
• Top Activities: Water sports and Nightlife
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Varca

Also Read – North Goa or South Goa: How to make a choice?

Churches in Goa: – Magnificence Redefined

Basilica of Bom Jesus	Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina	Church of Saint Francis of Assisi
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception	Church of Saint Cajetan	Chapel of Saint Catherine
Mae De Deus Church	Santa Cruz Church	Church of Our Lady of the Mount
Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca

Enchanting is the word that can appropriately define the beauty of Goa’s churches. Check out our list of exceptional churches in Goa.

15. Basilica of Bom Jesus

Built in the 16^th century, Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the oldest and most famous churches in the region. The edifice of this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fabulous example of Baroque architecture. The church is famous for being home to the mummy of St. Francis Xavier.

• Famous For: One of the best examples of baroque architecture and Portuguese Colonial architecture in India. It is one of the Seven Wonders of Portuguese Origin in the World
• Location: Old Goa

16. Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina

Se Cathedral exhibits magnificent architecture and is among the largest churches in Goa. This 250-feet tall church boasts of the largest bell in Goa, known as the Golden Bell.

• Famous For: Known for its impressive interiors, the mosaic work, and the Golden Bell, which is the largest in Goa and one of the largest in the world
• Location: Velha Goa or Old Goa

17. Church of Saint Francis of Assisi

Featuring a unique blend of Baroque, Corinthian and Tuscan architectural styles, the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi boasts of attractively gilded altars and ornate interiors. The carved woodwork of the church adds to its overall beauty.

• Famous For: The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, together with a convent, was established by eight Portuguese Franciscan friars who landed in Goa in 1517. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Churches, and convents of Goa
• Location: Velha Goa or Old Goa

18. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

An old gem among Goa’s churches, this church is known for its elegant architecture that features a double flight of symmetrical stairs. It has an ancient bell that is supposed to be the second largest bell of its kind in Goa.

• Famous For: Built in a Portuguese Baroque style, the church is located on a slight elevation, on a hillock. It is known to house the second largest church bells in Goa
• Location: Panjim
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Panjim

19. Church of Saint Cajetan

This famous church is modelled after Basilica of St. Peter in Rome. It features exquisite Corinthian architectural style and is built in the shape of a Greek cross.

• Famous For:  Being a part of the World Heritage Site, Churches and convents of Goa
• Location: Velha Goa or Old Goa

20. Chapel of Saint Catherine

Exhibiting a simple architecture, this UNESCO-listed church holds much historical significance. It was built to celebrate the victorious march of Portuguese general, Afonso de Albuquerque in Goa. Apparently, it is the first Christian ecclesiastical structure built in the region.  

• Famous For: Chapel of St Catherine is a 16th-century historic chapel that was built over a Cathedral in 1552 on the orders of Afonso de Albuquerque after the Portuguese conquered the state
• Location: Taleigao

21. Mae De Deus Church

One of the splendid churches of North Goa, it is the only one in Goa to feature Neo-Gothic architectural style. Its lovely spires will surely remind you of medieval castles. The elaborately done interior boasts of a gilded altar.

• Famous For: Imposing Neo-Gothic Catholic church with grand spires & gilded interior ornamentation
• Location: Saligao

22. Santa Cruz Church

Santa Cruz Church is a spectacular monument built in the Neo-Roman architectural style. The church dates back to the 16^th century. It is also known as Holy Cross Church. 

• Famous For: The church showcases a unique blend of architectural styles, combining elements of Baroque, Gothic, and Portuguese colonial designs
• Location: Santa Cruz, Panjim

23. Church of Our Lady of the Mount

Located atop  Monte Hill, the Church of Our Lady of the Mount is an elegant structure. The church commands popularity due to its impressive architecture as well as its wonderful position from where you can get a panoramic view of the surrounding areas.

• Famous For: With simple exteriors, lavish interiors, and wealth of historical significance, this chapel is what one might call a hidden treasure
• Location: Old Goa

24. Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca

Being located at the confluence of Mapusa and Mandovi rivers, the church of Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca is a visual treat in itself. High vaulted ceilings, glass-stained windows, and brilliant architecture make this church a one-of-its-kind attraction in Goa.

• Famous For: The interior of the church is stunning with a high-vaulted ceiling and handpainted sceneries
• Location: Panjim
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Panji

Check out the places to stay in goa

Forts in Goa: – Saga of Glorious Past

Fort Aguada	Chapora Fort	Reis Magos Fort
Tiracol Fort	Cabo de Rama Fort	Corjuem Fort

Heritage and history continue to thrive in the forts of Goa, each of which has endless stories to reveal. Mentioned below are some of the most impressive forts of Goa you must visit during your next trip.

25. Fort Aguada

Boasting  a breathtaking location, Fort Aguada stands as one of the iconic forts and top places to visit in Goa. Built-in 1612, this massive fort offers sweeping views of the Arabian Sea. An ancient four-story Portuguese lighthouse and prison cells situated within the complex are among the major attractions of the fort.

• Famous For: Its magnificent architecture as well as the breath-taking views it offers of the Arabian Sea 
• Location: Candolim 
• Timings: 9:30 am to 6 pm

26. Chapora Fort

Since the time it featured in the movie, Dil Chahta Hai, this fort has become one of the best places to visit in Goa for youngsters. The USP of the fort is the panoramic view it offers of the expansive Vagator Beach.

• Famous For: Known for its spectacular views and sunset vistas
• Location: Bardez
• Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Chapora Fort

27. Reis Magos Fort

Standing guard since 1551, the robust Reis Magos is one of the oldest forts in Goa. The fort was once a residence for dignitaries and was later used as a prison. With its interesting history, it sure deserves a visit.

• Famous For: This restored 16th-century fort offers sweeping river & sea views, along with a cultural centre
• Location: Bardez
• Timings: 9:30 am – 5 pm
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Bardez

28. Tiracol Fort

A 17th-century monument, Tiracol Fort is situated atop a hill and offers spectacular views of the areas downhill. There is also a church inside the fort, though is not always kept open to the general public.

• Famous For: For panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Terekhol River
• Location: Tiracol
• Timings: 9 am – 7 pm
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Tiracol Fort

29. Cabo de Rama Fort

Steeped in legends and folklore, Cabo de Rama takes pride in being one of the oldest forts in Goa. It is believed that the fort location is the place where Lord Rama had stayed with his wife Sita during their 14 years of exile from Ayodhya.

• Famous For: This fort withstood gruesome battles between the Portuguese, Marathas, Muslim invaders, and Hindu kings, and was used as a prison by the British
• Location: Canacona
• Timings: 9 am – 5:30 pm

30. Corjuem Fort

Corjuem Fort is one of the two surviving inland forts of Goa. It may be small in size, but it is quite popular among the tourists and locals alike who throng to the fort to enjoy the spellbinding vistas it offers of the Corjuem River and the areas beyond it.

• Famous For: Built in 1705, the hilltop ruins of this Portuguese military fortress offer scenic views
• Location: Corjuem
• Timings: 6 am – 7 pm

Temples in Goa: – Blend of Beauty & Spirituality

Mangeshi Temple	Shanta Durga Temple	Maruti Temple
Saptakoteshwar Temple	Mahalasa Narayani Temple	Brahma Temple

The temples of Goa are not just about spirituality; they are also about heritage and beauty. Take a look at some of the famous temples that paint a picture of an altogether different Goa.

31. Mangeshi Temple

Dedicated to Lord Mangesh, an avatar of Lord Shiva, Mangeshi Temple is one of the largest, oldest, and most visited shrines in Goa. There is a seven-story octagonal lamp tower at the temple complex entrance that becomes a visual treat when lighted with oil lamps on festive nights. Mangeshi Temple is one of the most religious places to visit in Goa with family.

• Famous For: One of the major temples in Goa, it is approximately 450 years old
• Location: Mangeshi Village, Priol

32. Shanta Durga Temple

Shanta Durga Temple in Goa exhibits a unique construction, replete with Roman arched windows and a Pyramidical Shikara. Goddess Durga is the reigning deity of this temple, where she is worshipped as a mediator between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. 

• Famous For: The temple is dedicated to Shantadurga, the goddess who mediates between Vishnu and Shiva
• Location: Kavalem Village, Ponda

33. Maruti Temple

When you are in Goa, do not let go of the opportunity to get blessed by Lord Hanuman at the Maruti Temple. If you happen to visit this temple on Tuesdays, you can witness the rush of devotees who throng the place in hordes.

• Famous For: Located on Altinho Hill overlooking Fontainhas district in Panjim, the majestic Maruti Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman
• Location: Altinho, Panjim

34. Saptakoteshwar Temple

One of the six major shrines of Lord Shiva that exists in the Konkan region, Saptakoteshwar Temple is a picture of architectural beauty.  The temple’s mandapa is constructed in the European style. You will need to embark on a ferry journey to reach the temple from the island of Divar.

• Famous For: It is considered to be one of the six great sites of temples of Shiva in the Konkan area
• Location: Narve, Bicholim

35. Mahalasa Narayani Temple

This temple is among the rare shrines in India where Lord Vishnu is worshipped as Mahalasa or Mohini, the deity’s female form. The temple possesses a 12.5-meter high brass lamp which is considered to be one of the highest lamps in the world.

• Famous For: The most popular temple of Supreme Mother Mahalasa is at Mardol in Goa, which is over 450 years old
• Location: Mardol, Ponda

36. Brahma Temple

You don’t come across a temple dedicated to Lord Brahma every other day, do you? Because of this very reason, you must include the Brahma Temple in your list of Goa itineraries. The temple houses a finely chiseled sculpture of Lord Brahma that dates back to the Kadamba period.

• Famous For: It is the only temple in Goa that is dedicated to Lord Brahma and is also one of the few important temples found in India that is dedicated to Lord Brahma
• Location: Valpoi, Satari

Museums in Goa: – Keepers of History

Archaeological Museum	Museum of Christian Art	Wax World Museum
Ancestral Goa Museum	Indian Naval Aviation Museum	Houses of Goa

The museums in Goa allow you to get a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and heritage of the land. Listed below are a few popular choices from among the plethora of museums in Goa.

37. Archaeological Museum

This museum takes you to the medieval past of Goa. At this museum, you can take a look at the ancient maps, Arabian and Persian inscriptions, bronze statues, wooden sculptures, age-old artifacts, and lots more that will keep you thoroughly engaged. It is one of the most famous places to visit in Goa other than beaches.

• Famous For: Archaeological Museum of Goa houses a splendid collection of artefacts belonging to the prehistoric and late medieval Portuguese rule in Goa
• Location: Old Goa
• Timings: 10 am – 5 pm (Closed on Friday)
• Entry Fees: INR 10

38. Museum of Christian Art

It is the only museum in Asia that features items related to the emergence of Christianity in Goa. The museum has a wealth of impressive sculptures, paintings, furniture, textiles, and other curios.  

• Famous For: It is the only museum in Asia that features items related to the emergence of Christianity
• Location: Old Goa
• Timings: 10 am – 5 pm
• Entry Fees: INR 5

39. Wax World Museum

Goa’s own Madame Tussauds, that’s what the Wax World Museum is! You can expect to find more than 30 realistic wax figures of Indian celebrities and personalities from the pages of history. Do not miss this one.  

• Famous For: Celebrities wax statues
• Location: Old Goa
• Timings: 09:30 am – 06:30 pm
• Entry Fees: INR 250

40. Ancestral Goa Museum

Fancy knowing about the ancient Goan way of life? Then the Ancestral Goa Museum or Big Foot Museum will enthral you to no end. This open-air museum has life-size sculptures that portray the culture and lifestyle of Goa from the bygone days. Miniature models of traditional Goan houses and a Feni distillery are the highlights of this museum.

• Famous For: Outdoor cultural museum featuring a recreated ancient Goa village, with pottery making & dancing
• Location: Loutolim
• Timings:9 am – 6 pm (Closed on Monday)
• Entry Fees: INR 100

41. Indian Naval Aviation Museum

This museum showcases interesting exhibits that depict the Indian Navy’s evolution over the years. You can take a look at planes, helicopters, aircraft engines, military weapons, old photos, vintage navy uniforms, and several other things. It is among the unique places to visit in Goa to learn about Aviation and the Navy. The museum houses gigantic replicas of INS Vikram and INS Viraat.

• Famous For: India’s only Naval Aviation Museum
• Location: Bogmalo, Vasco da Gama
• Timings:10 am – 5 pm (Closed on Monday)
• Entry Fees: INR 20
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Vasco da Gama Railway Station

42. Houses of Goa

Designed by renowned architect Gerald da Cunha, this museum boasts of a ship-like structure. It is a unique museum where you can take a peep into Goa’s rich architectural past through the various exhibits on display.

• Famous For: Offbeat, ship-shaped museum showcasing the region’s cultural & architectural history
• Location: Bardez
• Timings:10 am – 7:30 pm (Closed on Monday)
• Entry Fees: INR 100

Waterfalls in Goa: – Absolutely Spectacular

Dudhsagar Waterfalls	Hivre Waterfalls	Tambadi Surla Waterfalls
Arvalem Waterfalls	Kuskem Waterfalls	Charavne Waterfalls

When it comes to waterfalls, nature has blessed Goa in abundance. Here are a few waterfalls that deserve a place in your places to visit in Goa in 3 days itinerary.  

43. Dudhsagar Waterfalls

A four-tiered waterfall, it is among the most spectacular waterfalls in India. The gush of milky white water flowing amidst the engulfing greenery justifies the name and is truly a sight to behold.

• Famous For: Dudhsagar waterfall is one of the tallest falls in India
• Location: Goa-Karnataka Border 

44. Hivre Waterfalls

The stunning beauty of Hivre Waterfalls makes it one of the most popular waterfalls in the entire region. The location of the waterfall holds an attraction for not just tourists but trekkers as well.

• Famous For: Trekking and views
• Location: Valpoi

45. Tambadi Surla Waterfalls

An offbeat destination, Tambdi Surla is a waterfall of breathtaking beauty. The waterfall stands surrounded by a dense jungle and needs a trek through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary to reach the place.

• Famous For: Breathtaking views as the waterfall flows from a height of 50 meters in a zig-zag manner
• Location: Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

46. Arvalem Waterfalls

Call it Arvalem or Harvalem as it is popularly known, this gushing waterfall will definitely delight you. If you are looking for a spot for a picnic with your friends, the area around this waterfall is an ideal choice.

• Famous For: Picnics and outings
• Location: Sanquelim

47. Kuskem Waterfalls

An amazing work of nature, Kuskem Waterfalls rushes down gleefully from a lofty mountain and presents a stunning sight to the onlookers. The best time to view this seasonal waterfall is during the monsoons or post-monsoons.

• Location: Canacona District

47. Charavne Waterfalls

A trek of about 2 miles uphill from the Charavne village will take you to the waterfall. Once you reach the spot, the sight of the waterfall will make your trek worth the effort.

• Famous For: Trekking and Views
• Location: Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary 

Also Read – Trekking Places in Goa

Wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa: – Exotic Nature

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary	Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary	Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary	Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary	Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

The natural beauty of Goa lies not just in its bays and beaches. One way to experience nature in all its wild glory is to visit the wildlife sanctuaries and parks in the region. Check out some of the famous wildlife sanctuaries of Goa.

49. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

It may be the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa, but this natural reserve is home to a rich variety of wildlife. The sanctuary also has cottages where you can stay and discover the varied wildlife. 

• Famous For: Junglelike wildlife sanctuary & zoo with a park area, many exotic species & birds
• Location: Ponda, North Goa
• Timings: 9 am – 5 pm (open all days except Monday)
• Entry Fee: INR 50

50. Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary

If you are up for an adventurous safari through the deep jungle, Molem National Park must be on your list of to-do things. You can also trek through the forest and discover the rich wildlife population species of this sanctuary.

• Famous For: The sanctuary is particularly known for its Leopards, Elephants, Deers & Gaur also known as Indian Bison
• Location: Sanguem Taluk, South Goa
• Timings: 8 am – 5:30 pm
• Entry Fee: INR 20

51. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

A biodiversity hotspot, the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary boasts a number of wildlife species. But its biggest attraction is the Royal Bengal Tigers. This sanctuary is also a great place for bird-watching.

• Famous For: Panthers to Indian venomous snakes
• Location: Valpoi
• Timings: 8 am – 5:30 pm
• Entry Fee: NA

52. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary

A visit to the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary will enable you to explore a variety of flora and fauna. The enchanting place is also home to several species of butterflies and birds.

• Famous For: The sanctuary is a host for many rare butterfly species including the Malabar banded swallowtail and Malabar banded peacock
• Location: Sanguem Taluk
• Timings: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
• Entry Fee: INR 20

53. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

The main attraction of the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is its observation deck that remains concealed amidst the foliage. If you climb up on this deck, you can spot the wild animals from close quarters.

• Famous For: Flying squirrel, slender loris, Indian pangolin, mouse deer, four-horned antelope, Malabar pit viper, hump-nosed pit viper, white-bellied woodpecker, Malabar trogon
• Location: Canacona Taluk 
• Timings: 7 am – 5:30 pm
• Entry Fee: INR 5

54. Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Along the River Mandovi, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is accessed via a ferry ride. One can spot a variety of birds here including western reef herons and striated heron besides flying foxes, crocodiles, and jackals.

• Famous For: White egrets and purple herons, you can expect to see colourful kingfishers, eagles, and cormorants
• Location: Chorao Island
• Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
• Entry Fee: INR 10

With so many attractions to see and experience, Goa is truly a traveller’s paradise. It has an endless bounty of man-made and natural attractions to offer. The best way to discover the treasures of Goa is to book your ticket, check into one of the hotels in Goa, and start your exploration in earnest. So, here’s to the happy exploration of Goa’s wonders!

Frequently Asked Questions About Goa:

Q: When is the best time to visit Goa?

A: Although the ‘Party Capital of India’ is crowded with tourists all around the year, it is best to visit Goa during the winter season (November-February). The state especially attracts people from the world over during Christmas and New Year.

Q: Which Goa casinos can I visit to try my luck?

A: Deltin Royale, Casino Pride, Deltin Jack, Deltin Caravela, and the land-based Casino Paradise are among the top casinos in Goa for gaming enthusiasts.

Q: What are the best places to visit in South Goa?

A: Beaches like Palolem, Colva, and Benaulim, shrines like Se Cathedral and Shri Shantadurga Temple, Cabo de Rama Fort, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, and other interesting attractions in towns like Vasco Da Gama, Chandor, and Loutolim are among the top tourist places to visit in South Goa.

Q: Which adventure sports can I try in Goa?

A: There are many adventure activities in Goa for you to indulge in, the most popular of all being water skiing, scuba diving, kayaking, jet skiing, banana boat rides, kite surfing, white water rafting, windsurfing, parasailing, and snorkelling.

Q: Which are the best places to shop in Goa?

A: The most popular shopping places in Goa are Anjuna Flea Market (Wednesday) and Arpora Night Market (Saturday). Mapusa Friday Market, Mackie’s Saturday Night Market, and Calangute Market Square are a few other options for shoppers.

Q: How to reach Goa?

A: Goa’s Dabolim Airport has direct flights to domestic and foreign destinations like Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Kuwait, and UAE. Major train stations in Goa are Madgaon and Thivim while bus travellers can get down at Mapusa, Panjim, Vasco da Gama, Margao, or Canacona. Travelling to Goa by road from nearby cities is also ideal.

Q: Are there any UNESCO-listed heritage sites in Goa?

A: Yes; as a matter of fact, there is more than one. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Saint Catherine’s Chapel, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, Church of Saint Augustine, and Church of Saint Cajetan are all listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Goa.

Q: Suggest some happening places for a night out in Goa?

A: Party lovers must not miss popular pubs and nightclubs in Goa like Tito’s, SinQ, LPK Waterfront, Cafe Mambo, Curlies, Soro, Cafe Mojo, Cavala, Showbar Exchange, Cohiba, and Chronicle. Silent Noise in South Goa is also a must-visit.

Q: Which are the best places to eat in Goa?

A: Tamarind Cafe, La Plage, Bhatti Village, Thalassa, Spice Goa, Burger Factory, Brittos, Pousada by the Beach, Zeebop by the Sea, The Space, Martin’s Corner, Dropadi, Magic Italy, The Fisherman’s Wharf and Nostalgia are among the best restaurants in Goa.

Q: Suggest some good places for breakfast or brunch in Goa.

A: The Verandah Restaurant, AZ.U.R, Infantaria, Artjuna, Lila Cafe, Baba Au Rhum, La Brise, Bean Me Up, Cafe Cotinga, and Villa Blanche Bistro are the most popular breakfast and brunch spots in Goa.