Everyone knows that Goa is the fun capital of the country. With so many exciting things to do, it’s hard to choose where to start. Prioritising them based on your interests might be a sound strategy to conquer the limited time and space in your itinerary.
So without further ado, here’s a list of the top 7 things to do in Goa!
Explore the expansive Goan coastline. Party at Baga beach or take a peaceful walk along Agonda.
There is no shortage of sun, sand and sea. But Goa’s beautiful beaches are just the tip of the iceberg.
Natural attractions like the splendid waterfalls scattered all around the state are great hiking and sightseeing spots. The famous Dudhsagar waterfall will certainly impress you enough to want to visit more.
If wildlife interests you, visit Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa’s largest protected sanctuary. If birdwatching is your thing, then Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is your scene. And if you’re just a sanctuary person, hit up the Butterfly Conservatory Of Goa. Looking for a bit of an offbeat nature experience?
Spice it up with a tour of the Savoi or Tropical spice plantations.
Partying comes easy in Goa. With most beaches turning into open-air clubs, the nightlife is vibrant.
The silent disco at Palolem beach, with headphones and dancing, is especially worth it.
There is no shortage of nightclubs and pubs in Goa, so if you’re a party animal, you’ll be right at home. Titos and Hammerzz nightclubs are two such popular spots you definitely need to go to.
For a more unique experience, try your luck at Goa’s grand floating casinos. Popular ones like Big Daddy Casino, Deltin Royale, Casino Pride and Crown Casino are open round the clock with card games and swanky bars.
Not just for sightseeing, Goan beaches also offer activities for thrill seekers. Beaches like Baga and Sinquerim have paragliding, parasailing, jet skiing and surfing to get your blood pumping.
Go flyboarding in Chapora river and launch yourself over water with the force of jet propulsion powered by a watercraft.
And if all that still doesn’t cut it for you, there’s always the option of free-falling from a height of 55 metres with bungee jumping at Jumpin Heights.
Scuba diving at Malvan beach or snorkeling at Grand Island will let you explore the waters you normally admire from afar. If you prefer to stay above water then rafting at Mhadei river, kayaking in Baga Creek and sailing over the Arabian Sea are also great options.
Goa also offers hikes in wildlife sanctuaries and treks that end with beautiful waterfalls. Maybe go go-karting in Arpora? Or just explore the beaches you find yourself in. But the star of the show is definitely getting a bird’s eye view of Goa as you float 2000 feet in the air on a hot air balloon ride in Assolda.
Your busy vacation plans will surely require you to refuel. And what better way to recharge than digging into some authentic seafood and Goan specialities?
Xitti Kodi or fish curry rice, a Goan staple, is a good place to start. Fried fish, prawns and squid make great appetizers or snacks when you’re feeling peckish.
If seafood is not your thing, try Chicken Xacuti. You also cannot go wrong with pork vindaloo, a classic Goan curry.
For a real good time, bring out the Feni! A spirit exclusive to Goa that is made from cashews or coconuts. And end your feast with a unique Goan dessert, Bebinca – a coconut cake!
Take a tour of Goa’s heritage with forts like the Chapora Fort in Bardez and Fort Aguada in Candolim.
Explore grand churches like the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church in Panjim and the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa for a live history lesson. A trip to the Goan State Museum can further enlighten you on the rich history and culture of Goa.
For some stunning architecture, visit the vintage Menezes Braganca House, an ancient Portuguese household in Chandor. Or just drive all across Goa and marvel at the colourful and traditional houses and shops overflowing with personality!
As is with any vacation, a physical memento of the trip is a must! With the markets of Goa, souvenirs are the bare minimum and a full-blown shopping spree is a norm.
Hosted every Wednesday at Anjuna Beach, the Anjuna Flea Market is a popular shopping spot. This flea market is a shopper’s paradise and is visited by both locals and tourists. Another beach bazaar is the Mackie’s Night Bazaar, organized every Saturday on Baga Beach. Many such markets at beaches have everything from clothing and trinkets to handicrafts and antiques!
Have more niche interests? Paperworks in Panjim, as the name suggests, is an old shop tucked away in an unassuming building that specialises in handmade paper and sells beautiful papercrafts
Did anything on this list resonate with you? With so many options, a loaded itinerary is a given. Make sure to plan a nice, long stay to tick off every experience on your curated list. Fly to Goa International Airport and get your vacation started!
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