Goa

Local areas in Goa
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Art and History
Goa Tour Packages by Taj Holidays

Goa Tour Packages by Taj Holidays Soft sands, shimmering waters and swaying palms: that is Goa for most people. But there’s more to discover in this tiny yet shining slice of India. Its colonial past has left it with glorious architecture, and has given its food and culture a distinctive flavour that drips with joie de vivre.

Taj Exotica Goa - Luxury Resort

Concierge Recommends

Sunset Cruise
Available on request, the sunset cruise takes you on a boat to marvel at the glory of the setting sun and the vibrant onset of dusk, right on the Arabian Sea, next to Vainguinim beach. Interested guests may approach the concierge for more details
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Dolphin Chase
Keep a lookout for one of nature’s most intelligent creatures as they swim, play, and leap in the Arabian Sea. Boat rides for the Dolphin Chase can be arranged by the hotel on request. Interested guests may approach the concierge for more details.
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Spice Plantation
50 kilometres from Cidade de Goa lies a must-visit spice plantation. Aromatic, vast, and experiential, it is ideal for couple or group outings. Interested guests may approach the concierge for more details, and to arrange for a date and transport only.
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Discover The Backwater
Open :8.00AM-10.00PM
Settle yourself in a kayak and paddle along the tranquil waters of the Sal River. It’s easier than the more rigorous sea-kayaking, and, along the way, you might even spot some exotic birds. Goa Kayaking also organises night kayaking trips.
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Old Goa
Open :7.00AM-6.30PM
Old Goa was, before Panaji, the capital of the Portuguese rulers. Vestiges of its great past remain in the form of the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier, and the Sé Cathedral, the largest church in Asia. The ruins of St. Augustine’s Church merit a visit, too.
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Flea Market
Antiques can be expensive, so if you’re just looking for mementos or gifts that imbibe Goa’s cultural spirit, head over to Anjuna’s Flea Market for knick-knacks, some of which are reminiscent of an olden Portuguese-influenced Goa.
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Braganza House
Open :9.00AM-5.00PM
The four hundred-year-old Braganza House in Chandor is steeped in history. Wander through the Great Salon and the colossal ballroom, gaze at antique European chandeliers adorning the ceiling, and admire the vintage gems, such as beautiful period furniture and Chinese porcelain, dotted about the house.
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Fontainhas Heritage Walk
A guided, immersive walk transports you to an era preserved. Distinct Portuguese architecture and heartwarming, historic tales bring to life Goa’s quaintest parts, from Sao Tome to Fontainhas, heritage buildings to telling galleries. Commencing at the GPO, this Heritage Walk explores olden Panjim and ends with mellifluous, haunting Fado melodies.
Fontainhas Heritage Walk
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Contact for more information :
Fontainhas Heritage Walk
Ride The Waves
Open :9.00AM-5.00PM
Arambol Beach has the perfect waves for you to try your hand at surfing. They are just high enough to give you a thrill, and most safe for beginners. All you need to do is get in touch with the surf instructors you will find on the beach who will help you conquer the surf in no time.
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E-bike Culture Trail
: Ride past and soak in the culture, architecture, and tales of Panjim, through pleasant trails leading to Adil Shah Palace, Panjim Conception Church, Altinho Hill, and Fontainhas. End the tour with a spot of music at a record store or indulge in the sweetness of Goa’s oldest bakery.
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­Get a Glimpse of Local Life
Although the Mapusa Market goes about its business all days except Sunday, it is best experienced on a Friday morning, when it is at its bustling best. Vendors and shoppers come from all over Goa, and you will be surrounded by the sounds of zealous haggling for produce and souvenirs.
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Find Hand Painted Tiles
Open :9.00AM-7.00PM
Azulejos, traditional Portuguese hand-painted ceramic tiles, are iconic Goan symbols. Pick one up at Velha Goa Galeria, where you will find tiles in a range of shapes, designs and colours. The store also has a lovely collection of glass products, and gorgeous ceramic curios.
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Explore Paper Wonderland
Open :9.30AM-6.00PM
Paperworks is a dream come true for any stationery-lover. The tiny shop stocks handmade paper in an array of textures and colours, and also has a lovely collection of paper products. Pick from beautiful notebooks, papier-mâché jewellery, light-as-air lampshades and delicate gift boxes, which make for wonderful souvenirs.
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Reis Magos Fort
Open :9.30AM-5.30PM
The oldest fort in Goa, Reis Magos started out as a fortress on the north bank of the River Mandovi. Later, it was used as a prison and then as a hospital, until it was finally abandoned and fell into disrepair. However, since its restoration in recent years, it has gone back to looking its glorious best.
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