How to Get the Best of Goa: Exploring the Tropical Paradise

Crowned as the smallest state in India, Goa is a first choice for an awesome tropical getaway in India. Exclusively notorious for its beaches and nightlife, it's much, much more than that.

Apart from merriment, it's also about living and experiencing its culture through the foods, clothes, each brick in the monuments, and more.

One of the best things about Goa is that it has something for all and will be such a waste to enjoy it thoroughly. So here's how you can explore the best of its gems in a limited time and budget.

Start with the North Goa

Beaches - Going for an all-out aqua adventure! 

One of the best things about Goa is the beaches. Be it Calangute, Candolim, or Baga, the possibilities in North Goa are endless. You can spend your evenings going on leisurely walks by the seaside and view the beautiful sunset anytime you want. The feel of sand on bare feet and the pleasant breeze are all worth it.

Each beach has a unique touch that makes it different from others. Calangute, known as the queen of beaches, has many beautiful food cottages, a vibrant and sparkling nightlife, and bustling markets for all your shopping demands.

On the other hand, Beach Beach, bordering Calangute, is more about its bars, nightclubs, and amazing attractions.

Each one of them offers varied water activities like banana rides, jet skis, etc. If you want to enjoy the full experience of water adventure, you can also book a full-day package they offer.

Tour of Coco Beach - A morning well spent

The best time spent is the gentle morning on a pleasant boat ride while searching for dolphins.

Apart from that, You will be able to catch glimpses of infamous sights like a beautiful diamond merchant house, where the shooting of the movie 'Haseena Maan Jayegi' took place, a lighthouse, and Goa Central Jail

The ancient Aguada Fortress - Indulge in the history

Aguada Fortress is a Portuguese Fort built in 1612 and is one of the wonders of North Goa. Situated on Sinquerim Beach in Candolim, offers historical grandeur, covering a large area. It is divided into parts - Lower Fort, which used to provide a safe berth to Portuguese ships.

Upper Fort consists of a moat, an underground water storage chamber, a famous lighthouse, a Gunpowder room, and bastions. It is the best area that overlooks the sea and captures iconic shots.

Drinks and Chill on Candolim

There's only one way to truly enjoy your holidays. It's soaking in the sun while lounging on the deck chair with a cool drink in hand. Candolim Beach is a perfect place for that.

Coolest Attractions to Blow Your Mind

Bemusing world of 3D Art Museums

There are various 3-D Arts created to take amazing and fun shots with your friends and family. You can also enjoy the various optical illusions, upbeat music, and baffling mazes.

Snow theme parks - Welcome to below-zero

What's more relaxing than chilling in the snow after a scorching day in the sun? There are various cool activities like snow fights, sledding, snow features, and more.

Tour to the Old Goa 

Breathtaking church straight out of fiction

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the famous 16th-century churches of Old Goa where the mortal remains of ST Francis Xavier are retained. The main altar, surrounded by the other two altars, has Bom (infant) Jesus and a large statue of Saint Ignatius Loyola.

This world heritage site contains two chapels- the Northern side which is dedicated to the Blessed Sacrament and the southern side where the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier are kept.

There are various rules and regulations here for entering the church premises. So make sure to follow each of them and respect the sanity of this holy monument.

Se Cathedral 

Loaded with scenic gardens, this church of white magnificence is dedicated to the St. Catherine of Alexandria and is one of the largest and oldest churches in Goa.

It is right in front of the Basilica of Bom Jesus church.

Visit the Mangueshi Temple

This Shiva temple is located in Priol-Ponda and was established by its Kulavi devotees. The beautiful blooms and the lake surrounding the temple are eye-pleasing.

Breath in the aroma of spices  

The trip wouldn't be complete without a trip to the spice plantation. The long walk through the lush greenery while getting to know about the different spice plants and herbs is quite a soothing experience.

As a part of the tour, they will tell you about how Feni, an alcoholic beverage, is prepared with cashew apples.

There, you will also get to know more about the Goan culture through its cuisines and drinks provided and the assortments of organic medicines and essential oils.

Cruise life is the best life 

If you want to experience the best part of Goa Tourism, cruises are the best way to go. A fun sail across the River Mandovi with a showcase of Goan culture through performances, cuisines, and a disco!  There are various types of river cruises available to make your choice.

Dudhsagar Waterfall - Sea of milk

This magnificent waterfall amidst the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park attracts tourists from all around the world. Also famous for appearing in the movie 'Chennai Express', it is located on the Mandovi River in Sonaulim.

A great place for trekking, surrounded by the wonders of nature before taking a plunge in the cool water. Occasionally the trains can be seen, passing through the falls. Apart from that, you also catch a glimpse of the various colorful butterflies, fluttering around.

Since it's 60 km from Panjim, the capital of Goa, it takes quite a drive to reach there. The transport will only take you to the entrance where you will have to book a Jeep (which is suitable to take you through the rocky terrain and waters ahead)

It takes about more than half an hour's drive through the forests to reach your destination afterward.

This will take up more than a morning and an afternoon so it is best to schedule a whole day to avoid any rush.

Conclusion

Goa is the best holiday destination with only the best places to offer. So it's nearly impossible to be able to explore it all in just one tour. Tour packages will try to accommodate it all with their available programs for a max experience.

If you're planning on a solo or group trip with your loved ones, it is advised to do early research about the above spots for an unforgettable travel memory.