6 Places You Must Explore In Goa

Showcasing a perfect blend of Portuguese and Indian cultures, Goa is a traveler’s paradise. It is not just a party destination but a place that has plenty to calm your soul. Get sun-kissed by the beach, eat exotic seafood, sit carefree in the sand with your pals, gain spirituality, or just gaze at the incredible architecture – you can do it all here.

We are all guilty of making plans of Goa but not heading out, isn’t it? There are plenty of places to see in Goa for those who like to wander, explore, soak in the vibe, and create travel memories. Pack your bags for here is a list of the best places to visit in Goa.

# Vagator Beach

Underrated is the word we will use for this place. Around 22 kms from Panaji, Vagator Beach is one of the best places to visit in Goa. One of the most alluring beaches of the city, Vagator is thronged with backpackers from all over the world.

With shopping stalls on one side and freshwater springs on the other, Vagator beach offers a beautiful sandy stretch where you can sit and eat lip-smacking Greek food along with a chilled beer. The red cliffs nearby add to the quaint surroundings.

The beach is also a heaven for you if you are a party person. The most famous open-air club of Goa is situated right here at Vagator beach.

With its boulder-studded sands, you get to laze around or acquaint yourselves with the waves. To put it simply, Vagator Beach is an amalgamation of experiences and is one of the most underrated beaches in India.

# Panaji

The capital of Goa is certain to find a spot in your list of places to visit in Goa. Lying on the banks of the Mandovi River, the best way to travel around the city is on foot as you get to see beautiful heritage houses, old-worldly lanes, red-tiled roofs, and terraced hills. In case you are up for an alternate way to explore, you can go on a boat cruise through the Mandovi River that will offer you an impeccable view of the river skirting the city. With a Portuguese style look, the city is dotted with remarkable churches and tranquil beaches that are ready for you to uncover.

Things to do:

- Visit the Goa State Museum & Secretariat Building to witness several interesting collections that point to Goan history.

- Then, make a stop at the immaculate building of Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception that looks spectacularly radiant, particularly at night.

- Next, you can head to Altinho Hill that offers a great view of the city. Plus, here you can visit the Bishop’s Palace, a renowned tourist attraction of the place.

# Aguada Fort

One of the most interesting tourist places in Goa, the Aguada Fort is located at the estuary of the Mandovi River. The fort was constructed in 1612 when the Dutch started giving threats to the Portuguese overlords in Goa. The fort once served as a crucial watering point for ships coming from Portugal. Tourists flock to the fort at sunset as it looks the most beautiful at that time.

Things to do:

- 33 km from Aguada Fort, there is the Shantadurga Temple dedicated to Goddess Durga that you can visit.
- As little as 2 kms away from the Aguada Fort is the Candolim beach. Echoing with peace, the beach has white sand, dunes, and deep blue waters where you can just stay and unwind.

- A beach that is clearly visible from Aguada Fort is the Sinquerim Beach that calls out to the adventure junkie in you. At the beach, you can Skii, scuba dive or simply go fishing. Take your pick!

# Arambol beach

Considered as a hippie haven, the Arambol beach is at a beautiful stretch at the north of Goa. In fact, this tiny fishing village is now the most happening beach in all of Goa. An interesting thing about this beach is that you find several alternative therapies here, such as tai chi, yoga, reiki, and meditation. No wonder this beach attracts distinctive travellers from all around the world. People come to beach to spot dolphins and indulge in some enthralling water sports.

Though this may sound oxymoron, the beach has a ‘relaxed nightlife’. Yes, you read it right, the soothing music of drums, jam sessions, and live music easily make the beach one of the top tourist places of Goa. And if you seek solitude to a greater degree, the Keri Beach is right next to Arambol beach for you to check out.

# Bom Jesus Basilica

Tourists visiting Goa certainly have Bom Jesus Basilica in their ‘list of Goa tourist places’. Being one of the most prominent churches in Goa, Bom Jesus Basilica is highly regarded by Christians all around the world. An exemplary representation of Jesuit architecture, the church exudes elegance. Situated in Old Goa, the church has a statue of St. Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the order of Jesuits and a figure of baby Jesus. In addition to that, it also has the image of the Holy Trinity.

# Anjuna Beach

Happy vibes, good music, and rocky shores pretty much sum up the ever so vibrant Anjuna beach. Roughly 21 kms from Panjim, you meet people from the world over at this beach. Anjuna offers you a chance to lose yourself in trance music, bungee jump from an 80-feet tower or eat delicious Italian food, among other activities.

The flea market at Anjuna beach takes the pole position as far as shopping is concerned. The place is a haven for backpackers, hippies, and pretty much anyone looking for a great time. Tourists visit the beach in the morning in particular just to lay by the beach and sip a hot steaming cup of coffee. With the prospect of having a great time, Anjuna beach is undoubtedly among the best places to visit in Goa.