Overview
Planning a Goa Trip Has Never Been This Easy: Whether you are looking to kick back and relax by the beach, or are a
Goa showcases the perfect blend of Portuguese and Indian culture. Even after years of being a part of India, the coastal state has retained its old-world Portuguese charm. Whether you wish to travel alone, with family, with friends, or with someone special, Goa trips will certinly satisfy your every travel expectation. You can explore other cities and towns of this breathtaking state with numerous Goa tourism packages.
Best time to visit Goa
The best time to visit Goa is between December and February. The temperature at this time of the year usually remains between 20 to 28 degrees Celcius. Goa witnesses the maximum number of tourists between these months. You can even be a part of several beach parties and New Year celebrations during this time. You will also be able to indulge in various water sports and activities. Therefore, if you are looking for Goa tour packages, ensure to choose your dates around these winter months.
How to reach Goa?
Goa is one of the most sought-after places in India; therefore, if you are wondering how to reach Goa, you will be able to find several ways. Regular flights from cities like Hyderabad, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kochi, and Chennai are available. Among these cities, Mumbai to Goa takes the least time, which is 1 hour by flight. As you choose from the Goa tourism packages, flights are mostly included in them. Thus, you can stop being worried about it. Nevertheless, let us discuss all the possible ways to reach Goa.
- By air
- By rail
- By road
By air
Planning Goa trips by air is the easiest and most convenient way. All the metropolitan cities in India are directly connected to Dabolim Airport in Goa. And if you live in a Tier-2 city, you can take a connecting flight to Goa. As compared to all the other places, the least time is taken if you fly from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai. As you land at Dabolim Airport, you have to travel another 26 kilometers to reach Panaji, the capital city of Goa. In the peak months of tourism, the airport even receives international flights from some countries. If you want to get the best deals on Goa tour packages during the tourism months, you must start looking for Goa packages one or two months ahead.
By rail
Is high altitude a problem, because of which you cannot take a flight? Well, no worries, as you can certainly opt for traveling by train. The Konkan Railway is long and from Mumbai, it goes North and from Mangalore to the South. The Madgaon Railway Station in Margao is connected to the other cities of the country. If you are in Delhi, you can get a direct train connecting to Madgaon for the Goa trips. The Madgaon Railway station is located at a distance of 38 kilometers from Panaji. Another railway station that Goa houses is the Vasco da Gama Railway Station. This station is located at a distance of 29 kilometers from Panaji. Goa tours can be started by taking a taxi from the railway station to the capital city.
By road
Ever since we watched Dil Chahta Hai, a road trip to Goa has been on our bucket list. Hire a car and drive down to this beach paradise as the salty smell of the sea fills your senses and scenic locations rush past you. The easiest way to travel by road is from Mumbai which is just fourteen hours away. The fastest route however from Mumbai is via National Highway 4, which takes you from the Mumbai – Pune Expressway to Belgaum and then to Goa. State and private buses also run to and from Goa to various cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Hampi. However, we suggest you take the train instead of the bus because of the unpredictable traffic.
Best Places to Visit in Goa
As you consider Goa as your holiday destination, you would need at least a week to cover all the places to visit due to the sheer number of tourist attractions. However, to make the most of your Goa holidays, you must opt for suitable Goa tour packages. You can choose from the various types of Goa tourist packages as per your preference of places, days, the inclusion of flights, etc. And as we talk about the places to explore in the Goa holidays, here are some options that you must cover.
- Baga Beach
- Dudhsagar Waterfalls
- Fort Aguada
- The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
- Casino Cruise
- Anjuna Flea Market
- Grand Island
- Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Baga Beach
Located in North Goa, Baga Beach is one of the most popular beaches as well as the best places to visit in Goa. The beach is mostly frequented by tourists because of its scenic beauty. The white sand and the palm trees scattered across the beach look one of a kind. This beach is a regular part of most Goa tourist packages that you will come across.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Perched on the Goa-Karnataka border, Dudhsagar waterfalls are four-tiered and as they fall from immense heights, the waterfalls look gorgeous. This is one of the tallest waterfalls in the country and falls from a height of around 1017 feet. The waterfalls are located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. Therefore, to witness the waterfalls, you can visit the national park. If waterfalls are something you wish to add to your Goa tour package, then Dudhsagar would be your default pick.
Fort Aguada
Fort Aguada is another major inclusion in almost all Goa tour packages. An icon of Portuguese construction and engineering, this 400-year-old fort along with its lighthouse is one of the best places to visit in Goa. It also offers a mesmerizing view of its surroundings.
The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
The church is located in the heart of the city and you can see it even from a far distance. It is one of the most beautiful churches and dates back to the 18th century. Goa trips can never be complete without visiting this church. This is one of the best places to visit in Goa and even if you have little time in hand, you must visit this attraction.
Casino Cruise
This may not be included in many default Goa tour packages, but you can add it to your Goa tours by simply keeping spare time. If you always wanted to see and experience what a casino looks like, you can visit this kind of cruise. This is a cruise with features like a casino and other entertainment built-in. You can stay here for around 12 hours and have a wonderful and unique time.
Anjuna Flea Market
During Goa trips, a visit to Anjuna Flea Market on a Wednesday is a must. A tour of this market will add to your Goan experience. However, the market is available only between mid-November and April. Therefore, as you opt for the Goa tour packages, you need to be sure about the month in which you will be visiting Goa. Once you visit this flea market, you will surely call it one of the best places to visit in Goa.
Grand Island
Underwater exploration has its own kind of fun. Witnessing the aquatic creatures from such proximity is a lifetime experience. And when you are on Goa trips, you just cannot miss this. To have one such experience, you must head to Grand Island. This is certainly one of the best things to do in Goa.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
This may or may not be a part of the Goa tourism packages, but while in Goa, you must make it a point to visit Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Despite it being the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa, it houses numerous flora and fauna. The kind of plants or animals you will come across here are rare to be found. So, ensure to add this option to the Goa tours.
Things to do in Goa
You do not even need to worry about running out of things to do in Goa since there are several amazing options available. Your Goa tour package may include some of these, while you can try many other things when you are there. So, let us discuss some of the activities that you can indulge in during the Goa tours.
- Beach hopping
- River cruise
- Indulging in water sports
- Visiting churches and forts
- Clubbing
Beach hopping
The state is popular for its beautiful beaches; thus one of the most popular things to do in Goa is beach hopping. There are many beaches in Goa and you can visit as many of them as possible for you. Some of the beaches are serene and thinly populated, while others are well-known for beach parties. Visiting the beaches in Goa is certainly one of the major things to do during Goa tours.
Popular beaches: Calangute Beach, Baga Beach, Candolim Beach, Chapora Beach, Palolem Beach, Arambol Beach, Bogmalo Beach, etc.
River cruise
Cruising in Goa is one of the most interesting things you can do. There are many cruise options that you will come across here. Cruising in the rivers in Goa is relaxing and a unique experience. You can have your dinner while enjoying a lovely view of the waters. You are not likely to find this included in your Goa tour package but it is an activity that you must not miss while being here.
Popular cruise: Cruise on Mandovi River, Casino cruise
Indulging in water sports
While we discuss the things to do in Goa, we cannot just miss out on scuba diving. You can visit Grand Island for an amazing scuba diving experience. You can come close to the marine creatures and the experience is unmatched. Likewise, there are many other water sports in Goa that you can try. Some of them are paragliding, parasailing, kayaking, sailing, etc. You must ensure of adding these water sports to the Goa tourism packages that you are considering.
Popular water sports spots: Candolim beach, Calangute beach, Baga beach, Grand Island, etc.
Visiting churches and forts
Apart from beach hopping, Goa is popular for being home to several churches and forts. As a matter of fact, you can find some of the oldest churches in India in Goa. The churches and forts in Goa are even included in popular Goa tour packages. This is one of the things to do in Goa without which Goa packages are incomplete.
Popular churches and forts: Basilica De Bom Jesus, Church & Convent Of St Francis Of Assisi, St Augustine Church, Royal Chapel Of St Anthony, Chapora Fort, Church Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, Fort Aguada, and Se Cathedral
Clubbing
You may have gone clubbing in many places but the experience you will have in Goa is surely going to be different. This is one of the most popular and among the best things to do in Goa which you will love every bit. From live music to good food and drink, the clubs in Goa make sure that the guests have an awesome experience.
Popular clubs: Club Titos, Club Cubana, LPK (Love, Passion, Karma) Waterfront, Sinq Night Club, etc.
Foods to Eat in Goa
Whether you are a foodie or not, you are bound to fall in love with Goan cuisine. Although the foods in Goa mostly come in non-vegetarian options, you can certainly find several vegetarian foods as well. The list of Goan food is endless and the ones we are mentioning here can also be found in the meals that come with the Goa tourism packages. So, let us quickly take a look at the food choices we can get in Goa.
- Goan Pork Vindaloo
- Samarachi Kodi
- Crab Xacuti
- Goan Khatkhate
Goan Pork Vindaloo
Goan Pork Vindaloo is one of the most popular and sought-after foods in Goa. Whether you have ever tried pork or not, this dish is something that you cannot just miss out on trying. However, you must know that this dish is on the spicier side. Therefore, you should have it only if you have tolerance and an appetite for spicy food. No matter which Goa tour package you take, make sure you get this added to the meals.
Samarachi Kodi
If you are opting for Goa tourist packages during the monsoon season, you are likely to try this dish. Made of dry prawns, coconut, onions, tomatoes, and tamarind, Samarachi Kodi is a dish that is a must-have.
Crab Xacuti
Crabs are super delicious if they are cooked well with the right kind of spices. And the authentic Crab Xacuti that you will find while enjoying your Goa tour package is just sinful. You can have it with hot steamed rice.
Goan Khatkhate
Vegetarians will also have a lot of options that they can get with their Goa packages. Goa Khatkhate is a vegetarian dish in which several types of vegetables are added. This is more like a stew and light on the stomach. No matter which season you are choosing for a Goa trip, this dish is a must-try.
Best Restaurants in Goa
Goa being a tourist hub is dotted with restaurants that serve mouthwatering food. Whether you want to try Goan cuisine or Western dishes, or any other types of Indian dishes, you will get everything in Goa. Here are some of the restaurants and cafes in Goa that you must visit.
- The Caravela Cafe and Bistro
- Mandala Cafe
- Mosaic
- Baba Au Rhum
The Caravela Cafe and Bistro
Most of the visitors say that Americano and espresso here are among the must-try options, but you can try almost all of them. This is one of the most sought-after cafes in Goa, located in Panjim which is a must for tea and coffee lovers. The Goa tour packages you are opting for may feature this café.
Mandala Cafe
Located in Agonda, Mandala Café has earned fame over the years for serving not only tasty food but healthy as well. You can find various Indian dishes here.
Mosaic
While you are in Candolim, you cannot miss out on visiting Mosaic. As you visit the restaurant, make sure that you have your hearty dinner here. This is a must addition to the Goa tourist packages.
Baba Au Rhum
If you are in the mood to try some French dishes or to take a sip of an amazing cup of tea, you have to head to Baba Au Rhum. Make this a part of your Goa tour package and enjoy the food options here.
Ideal Places for a Honeymoon in Goa
Most of the recently hitched couples prefer Goa as their honeymoon destination. From good food to popular attractions, from tranquil beaches to parties, from adventure activities to casinos, there are various reasons why couples choose Goa to know each other a bit more in their initial days. So, here are some places for a honeymoon in Goa that are also featured in most of the Goa tourist packages.
- Calangute Beach
- Bamanbudo Waterfall
- Chorao Island
- Sinquerim Fort
Calangute Beach
This beach is often included in many of the Goa tourist packages and for all good reasons. Also called the “Queen of Beaches” in Goa, Calangute beach has gained the attention of honeymooners for its charm. Once you are done enjoying the scenic views here, you can also take a tour of the markets that sell various types of items.
Bamanbudo Waterfall
Bamanbudo Waterfall is one of the major destinations in Goa that is often visited by honeymooners. This must be included in the Goa tourism packages because you would not like to miss the beauty of this waterfall. In its background, you can find Ambe Ghat and there is no need of trekking to reach the waterfall. Do not forget to click pictures here.
Chorao Island
You will see its mention in the Goa tourism packages for sure. Goa has a total of 17 islands and Chorao island is the largest of all. It is located in Mandovi River and is visited by honeymooners for the flora and fauna it houses. You can witness more than 400 species of migratory birds here. The Goa tour packages in which this island is included must be considered by you.
Sinquerim Fort
Sinquerim Fort is mostly featured in the Goa tourism packages not only because of its historical significance but also because it overlooks the Sinquerim beach. It is an extension of the Aguada Fort. Therefore, if you are choosing from the Goa tourist packages that include Aguada Fort, you will be able to visit this fort as well.
These are just a few of the popular places that are frequented by couples on their honeymoon Goa tour packages. Apart from these places, there are several other attractions in Goa that you can visit with your better half. If the love of your life is a history aficionado, you can take her to many places with historical importance. Goa has various types of places and you can choose the attractions according to your and your beloved’s taste. If those are not included under sightseeing in the Goa tourist packages, you can still cover them.
Best Places for Shopping in Goa
Shopping in Goa is the most common thing that every tourist does. There are so many shopping places in Goa that you cannot just stop yourself from indulging in one such experience. So, no matter what the Goa tourism packages include, make sure you shop to your heart’s delight. You can even choose a Goa tour package that has quite many days and you get enough time to shop around.
- Mackie’s Night Bazaar
- Baga Market
- Calangute Market Square
- CocoRoots
Mackie’s Night Bazaar
Shopping in Goa is fun as you can enthusiastically buy items of your choice till midnight or even beyond that. Mackie’s Night Bazaar is often covered under the Goa tourism packages. And even if you cannot find this market in any of the Goa tourist packages, make sure you still visit the place to purchase clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs, jewelry, antiques, etc.
Baga Market
You are likely to find this a part of the Goa packages. This is a Tibetan market that remains open only from October to March. Therefore, if you are looking for Goa tourist packages between these months, you will surely be able to visit this market. You can buy clothes, jewelry, bells, prayer flags, showpieces, and even furniture here.
Calangute Market Square
Clothes, jewelry, leather products, handicrafts, seashells, carpets, beachwear, trinkets, and many more can be found in this market. If this is missing in the Goa tourism packages, you should get this added or visit on your own. This market is perfect for shopaholics.
CocoRoots
If you are fond of junk jewelry, this market is a must-visit for you. Apart from junk jewelry, you can also find traditional jewelry here that is made of coconut shells, bones and horns of dead animals. The items found here are unique.
