A small but striking piece of India’s Western Coastline, this former Portuguese colony attracts 3 million tourists a year with its white sandy beaches, calm and sparkling sea, and rich history and culture. The smallest in population, Goa is a miniature state for India’s standards, but one of its greatest destinations for the perfect beach holiday. Travel to Goa and experience its unique charm.
Due to its Portuguese origin, it is also very different in its culture and way of life from the rest of the country, a characteristic visible in its gorgeous architecture, a gastronomy reminding of Lisbon, and easy-going and laid-back people. Goa presents a unique mixture of Indian and Western-Catholic heritage, although Konkani is the most widely spoken language. Goa’s charm does not lay only in its serene and beautiful beaches, as during your trip to Goa you’ll also have the chance to take walks through fragrant spice plantations, visit ancient cathedrals, and explore its beautiful rivers and waterfalls.
What to See and Activities in Goa
The reason people come to visit Goa in herds every year is its 70 km of pristine coastline, with splendid beaches such as Anjuna Beach or Palolem. The Anjuna Beach was a main attraction for hippie communities in the 60s and 70s, and is the weekly host of the Anjuna Flea Market, which is definitely worth a visit. In the waters surrounding Goa, you can practice several aquatic sports, such as Jet-Ski, kite surfing, and diving. Keep in mind that diving in Goa is not available during the monsoon months (June till mid-October).
The state of Goa claims to be “semi-urban”, but it has a surprising amount of cities and villages. The most important ones are Panaji, the state capital, Margao, and Vasco da Gama. An absolute must-see is Old Goa, a city that during the 1500s had a larger population than Lisbon and London and was one of Asia’s cultural and ecclesiastical wonders. All we have left from it currently are ancient churches and cathedrals with a distinctive energy and matchless beauty. There are also around 350 small and charming villages, like Candolim and Cangalute.
Another unmissable destination is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, located 52 km from Panaji, in which you’ll have the chance to admire the exuberant flora and fauna through safaris, bird watching tours, and zoo visits, and even ride an elephant!
Getting There & Around
The Dabolim is the only airport in Goa and located in Vasco da Gama. Some international airlines fly in directly but it’s likely that you’ll have to get there from Mumbai, which is easy taking a bus from the Kadamba Transport Corporation or a train from Indian Railways. The distance between Goa and Mumbai is 593 km. When you travel to Goa, remember that high-resolution maps of the region are not likely to be available. A great way to travel is by bus, which is very inexpensive. Another widely chosen option is renting a motorbike, as car rental fares can get to 1200 dollars a day. Every foreign visitor will need an International Driving Permit, which you must carry at all times.
When to Visit Goa
The best time to visit Goa is between November and March, when rain is long gone and the waters are spectacular. You should avoid the peak season between Christmas and New Year’s, as accommodation prices rocket. Goans claim that during the monsoon times the state is at its best, bursting with festivals and carnivals, but if you are a swimming and diving enthusiast remember that from June till mid-October this is not an option.
Goa is a perfect destination for a relaxing and exotic holiday, compare flight prices and start planning your trip to Goa today!
