TOP ATTRACTIONS IN GOA TO VISIT
Goa has a number of attractions and locations that are popular among tourists visiting from across the globe. If you are looking to explore Goa here a few must visit spots you must check out!
BEACHES
Goa is blessed with a coastline that stretches upto 96 kms filled with some of the most beautiful beaches in India. The beaches are the backbone of tourism in the state and attract over 1.5 lakh international tourists each year. Beaches such as Candolim, Baga, Candolim, Vagator and Anjuna located in North Goa are extremely popular. On the southern coast beaches such as Majorda, Pallolem, Cansaulim and Utorda that are must visit. Miramar and Dona-Paula are the closest beaches to the capital city of Panjim. Miramar beach is situated just 4-5 kms from the capital city of Panjim which is then followed by Dona-Paula, both iconic landmarks in the state. Candolim, Baga, Anjuna, Vagator and Calangute also beaches that are very popular among Indian tourists are is filled with excellent night life and entertainment.
TITO’S LANE
Tito’s Lane is a today a global landmark situated in Baga. The street is where the famous night-club ‘Club Tito’s’ is located. Tito’s Lane is packed with a number of famous nightclubs that include Café Mambo’s, Cape Town Café etc. The nightlife here is buzzing with party-goers as these clubs are well known for its parties and excellent food. There is plenty of shopping here as well with vendors selling a variety of clothing, artifacts to the many that visit. Towards the end of Tito’s Lane is beach that is filled with a number of shacks that serve a variety of international cuisine’s as well as Indian and Goan dishes.
CHURCHES OF OLD GOA
Old Goa is an iconic landmark situated 30 kms from the capital city. Here rest the preserved remains of St. Francis Xavier at the Church of St. Francis Assisi. There are also a number of churches and chapels around the cathedral that is also a must visit for tourists that include St Cajetan’s Church, St Cathedral, Augustine’s Tower, etc. These churches take you back to the deep roots of the Portuguese rule in Goa that is still present in Goan culture today. The feast of St.Francis Xavier is celebrated in the month of December each year and is visited by devotees near and far.
LATIN QUARTERS OF FONTAINHAS
Located in the capital city of Panjim are the historic and ever so vibrant Latin quarters of Fontainhas. The area is a cluster of brightly colored houses that will take you back in time – given you the look and feel of a dainty little village in Europe. Fontainhas is also a heritage site that has derived it name from ‘Fonte Phoneix’ that was earlier an water reservoir built during the Portuguese era. A walk through this neighborhood will give you a glimpse of a number of Azulejo’s and other detailed architecture seen on the many old dwellings in the area.
CRUISE ON THE RIVER MANDOVI
The Mandovi river flows into the Arabian sea along the banks of Panjim, Miramar, Ribander and Old Goa. A perfect way to see the city from the river is through the sunset cruises as cruise boats that take you from the city of Panjim to Old Goa and Miramar as well. The point of departure is the right below the Mandovi bridge, with most cruises operating during the evenings. These large boats can accommodate a crowd of upto 200 people and is packed with music, dance and entertainment.