ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT IN GOA

Anjuna captures the spirit of Goa through its laid-back beaches, vibrant nightlife and artistic culture. From the famous Anjuna Flea Market to scenic coastal stretches and nearby forts, the area offers a blend of relaxation and exploration. Beyond Anjuna, Goa unfolds through a rich tapestry of sunlit shores, historic landmarks and lively neighbourhoods, inviting you to experience the destination in all its varied charm.

CANDOLIM BEACH

One of the best places to experience Goan culture, Candolim is known for its nightlife, dolphin spotting and water sports. You can make a half-day trip of it by visiting Divar Island to explore 18th-century churches, paddy fields and a temple pond.

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SIRIDAO BEACH

A hidden gem in South Goa near the Zuari River estuary, Siridao (Shiridon) is a shell collector’s retreat, home to uniquely detailed shells, including pearl shells and oysters. While it is known for its rocky terrain, it has a relatively minimal tourist footprint, which adds to its unspoilt beauty. You can explore the nearby caves or visit the Chapel of Jesus of Nazareth perched on a hill.

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SAL RIVER

South Goa is a haven for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers keen to discover the region’s enchanting ecosystem. A kayak ride on the Sal River takes you through a network of waterways fringed by lush mangroves and dotted with floating lotuses, offering glimpses of migratory birds. Guided tours with Goa Kayaking are available for guests of varying experience levels. We recommend booking a sunset expedition or a full-moon night ride for a magical experience.

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MANDOVI BACKWATERS

Regarded as the lifeline of Goa, Mandovi River’s watershed covers about 42% of the state’s total area. One of the most beautiful sunsets can be experienced here while on a cruise, houseboat or kayaking along the river. The sight of abundant greenery, large fishing nets, dolphins, glistening water, dense mangroves and even crocodiles sunning by the banks awaits you.

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REIS MAGOS FORT

Located on the banks of the Mandovi River, about two miles from Fort Aguada, Reis Magos Fort was constructed in 1551 by the Portuguese. Once a mighty defensive bastion, it was later converted into a jail. Among its many historical features, you’ll find a room with openings in the floor through which soldiers allegedly poured hot oil on attackers.

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BRAGANZA HOUSE - A GOAN TREASURE

Stretching along an entire square in the village of Chandor, Menezes Braganza House is a glorious 17th-century Portuguese mansion. Built by the Braganza family on land granted by the King of Portugal, it was divided into east and west wings after being inherited by two sisters. Roam the west wing, admiring Belgian glass chandeliers, Italian marble floors and antique treasures from around the world. The highlight of the east wing is a small chapel, which contains a relic believed to be a fingernail of St Francis Xavier. There are no set tour timings; a family member or local guide is usually available to show you around.

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OLD GOA

Offered by Goa-based travel platform BLive and other operators, an e-bike tour is a unique way to experience the charms of Velha Goa, the former colonial capital of Goa. Riding in through the Viceroy’s Arch (built by the grandson of Vasco da Gama) towards some of Asia’s finest churches - inluding St Catherine’s Chapel and the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier - you’ll also visit a museum before stopping for scenic views and sampling freshly baked poie at local bakeries.

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CAZULO PREMIUM FENI EXPERIENCE CENTRE

At the world’s first feni cellar and plantation, owned by second-generation feni maker Hansel Vaz, you can pre-book foraging trails and feni mixology sessions via Urban Naut. A unique ‘Floating Feni’ experience offers guests a curated tasting platter in the middle of a freshwater spring, while they sip on cashew and coconut feni.

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ARAMBOL BEACH

With beginner-friendly breaks and excellent surf camps, Goa is among India’s top surfing destinations. A fusion of power and aesthetics, surfing at Arambol Beach is popular with sporty guests. Even if you aren’t a pro, the small, short waves make it easy for anyone to surf with a bit of training. We suggest avoiding reef breaks and rocks, and choosing a less crowded spot to try out your manoeuvres. Basic surfing lessons and safety equipment are available at the beach.

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CHAPORA BAY, MORJIM

An eco-conscious and educational Ocean Biodiversity Tour by Terra Conscious takes you to the Arabian Sea in search of humpback dolphins, jellyfish and other fascinating marine life. This morning experience at Charpora Bay, Morjim is a treat for the entire family.

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MUSEUM OF GOA

Dedicated to narrating the stories of Goa’s past, present and future through art, the Museum of Goa (MOG) is a contemporary art institution that combines culture, art and storytelling to foster conversation and appreciation for the arts. Its workshops, events, lectures and guided art tours are among the best in the state.

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USGALIMAL PETROGLYPHS

An interesting expedition for archaeology enthusiasts, one of Goa’s least visited yet most fascinating sites - a series of prehistoric petroglyphs (rock art) carved into laterite stone - lies on the banks of the Kushavati River, deep in the countryside at Usgalimal. Thought to be the work of one of Goa’s earliest tribes, the site depicts animals, a dancing woman and ‘triskelions’, a series of concentric circles thought by some archaeologists to have been a primitive means of measuring time.

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VELHA GOA GALERIA

Goa’s heritage azulejo blue-and-white tiles, featuring picturesque scenes or names, are best browsed and purchased at Velha Goa Galeria in Panjim’s Latin Quarter. Founded in 1999 by Ivo da Costa Azaredo, fondly known as Bebe, the store specialises in traditional hand-painted azulejos and also carries a line of ceramics and imported products. While the raw materials are imported from Portugal, the tiles are painted by a team of artists at their workshop in Aquem.

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DUDHSAGAR WATERFALLS

Dudhsagar, which translates to ‘Sea of Milk’, earns its name from the waterfall’s foamy, cascading waters. Located within the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, this multi-tiered, milky white waterfall descends from a height of about 310 metres, making it India’s fifth-highest waterfall. It is at its most impressive just after the rains, offering an exciting experience.

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BASILICA OF BOM JESUS

Built in 1605, this UNESCO World Heritage Site houses the relics of St Francis Xavier and is considered one of the finest examples of Portuguese architecture in India. The church has an ornate entrance and a gilded altar with intricate carvings. The marble floor is inlaid with precious stones, and there is a modern art gallery featuring paintings of Biblical scenes.

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