After Kerala, the only other state where beaches serve as the main draw for tourists is GOA. This explains why GOA is also known as the “Beach Capital of India.” GOA is a must-see destination for both domestic and international tourists, with 131 kilometers of coastline and more than 50 beaches.
Sun, sand and sea are the major attractions, making GOA a perfect haven for those who need relaxation. Located on the Malabar Coast, GOA is bordered to the north by Maharashtra, to the east and south by Karnataka, and to the west by the Arabian Sea. There are 3,702 square kilometers in all. The Mandovi and Zuari rivers are the two biggest rivers.
MAJOR CITIES OF GOA
PANAJI: The capital of GOA, it is a small and charming city on the left bank of the silvery Mandovi River with beautiful, red-roofed houses built in the Latin style. The city also boasts many modern houses, well-laid gardens, statues and avenues lined with Gulmohar and other trees.
MARGAO: (33 km from Panaji) – The hinterland of southern GOA is a thriving commercial metropolis linked by rail to the rest of India, as well as through Mormugao Harbour and the national highways to Maharashtra and Karnataka.
VASCO DA GAMA: (30 km from Panaji) – A modern, well-laid-out city close to Mormugao Harbour, it has beautiful and extensive avenue and gardens. The GOA International Airport at Dabolim lies on the outskirts of the city. It also has a railway station; more than 18 trains originate from here.
MAPUSA: (13 km from Panaji) – It is located at the crossroads of the network of highways covering the whole of northern GOA. It has a beautiful layout with gardens and churches.
MORMUGAO HARBOUR: (34 km from Panaji and 4 km from Vasco da Gama) – It is one of the finest natural anchorages on the west coast of India and the hub of intense maritime activity.
HOW TO REACH GOA
BY AIR: DABOLIM Airport in GOA is connected by all major airlines in India with all major Indian cities. Several international airlines also operate flights to Dabolim. Dabolim Airport is approximately 27 km from Panaji. Manohar International Airport in MOPA, North Goa, is the newest and most advanced international airport, located around 33 km from Panaji.
BY TRAIN: GOA is well connected by train from Delhi, Mumbai and other Indian cities along the Konkan Railway. To reach Panaji, you can disembark at Karmali Railway Station, which is 12 km from Panaji. For North GOA, you can disembark at Thivim Railway Station, and for South GOA, can disembark at Margao or Vasco-da-Gama railway stations in GOA.
BY ROAD: GOA is also well connected by road through various buses, including non-air-conditioned and air-conditioned Volvo coaches from Maharashtra and Karnataka. You can also reach GOA by car/taxi, enjoying the beautiful view of the Western Ghats.
For Tourist Activities – Goa is divided into NORTH GOA and SOUTH GOA.
WHERE TO STAY
Almost every other house in GOA is either a homestay or a guesthouse, accommodating over 5 million tourists who visit each year.
You can easily find a budget hotel or accommodation online if you book your stay in advance. Many hotels offer special tour packages and are located near the beach as well.
While no hotels or resorts are situated directly on the beach, most of them are within walking distance.
PLACES TO VISIT :
Along with lively folk music, GOA is well-known for its palm-fringed beaches, water sports, nightlife, casinos, historical and religious landmarks like well-known Hindu temples and churches built in the Portuguese style, wildlife, and the picturesque Western Ghats!
NORTH GOA BEACHES: Baga, Calangute, Candolim, Chapora, Vagator, Anjuna, Arambol, and Morjim Beach are beach destinations that are highly recommended. Here, you can unwind on sun-kissed sand and take in the gorgeous sunsets and striking scenery. The best locations to see the magnificent Arabian Sea and the setting sun are Miramar Beach and Dona Paula Beach, both close to Panjim.
SOUTH GOA BEACHES: The beaches in South GOA are significantly less crowded and cleaner. Among the must-see beaches are Agonda Beach, which has shacks and palm trees for relaxation, as well as Colva, Betalbatim, Benaulim, Sernabatim, Cavelossim, Mobor, and Palolem.
THINGS TO DO: In addition to beaches, you have a variety of boat excursion and cruise alternatives to fit your needs and budget, such as an hour-long cruise at sunset, an island visit, and dolphin viewing cruises. Water activities are another one of GOA’s specialties and a draw for visitors. Go-karting, parasailing, jet skiing, water scootering, windsurfing, bungee jumping, and other activities are available. If you want to spend a romantic evening, savor delicious seafood, and take in the exciting Goa nightlife, schedule your visit around 08:00 PM.
For a Night Hangout in North GOA – The locations are close to the beaches at Arambol, Candolim, Vagator, Baga, Anjuna, and Calangute.
For a Night Hangout in South GOA – The locations are close to the beaches at Agonda, Betalbatim, Benaulim, Sernabatim, Cavelossim, Mobor, and Palolem.
WHAT TO EAT: GOA is a perfect place to find the right blend of cuisines. Numerous eateries, pubs, and beach shacks can be found all across the city. You name it and you have it: Chinese, Thai, Italian, French, Mughlai, Portuguese, Mexican, Korean, Vietnamese, traditional Goan food, etc. GOA is a gourmet’s delight. Eating out in GOA is an experience in itself. You can find Chinese, Thai, Italian, French, Mughlai, Portuguese, Mexican, Korean, Vietnamese, and traditional Goan cuisine, among other cuisines. GOA is a gourmet’s joy. In GOA, dining out is a unique experience.
GOA CLIMATE: With average highs of 19° to 29° C (66° to 84° F) in January and average highs of 25° to 33° C (77° to 91° F) in June, the climate is generally warm. Four-fifths of the state’s yearly average rainfall falls during the monsoon season, which typically lasts from June to September.
The best time to go is from the end of October to the beginning of May. However, for fun-loving people, any time of the year is fine to visit GOA with family, friends, spouse or colleagues.