Table of Contents
2. Chapora Fort: For Selfie Lovers
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Popular for its history, the Chapora Fort is one of the prime tourist attractions of Goa. In recent years, it shot to prominence after the Bollywood movie Dil Chahta Hai was shot here. Perched on a prominent position, one can get sweeping views of all directions from here. This is one of the prime sightseeing places in Goa where you can enjoy a wonderful sight of the sea from up above.
Location: Chapora Fort Rd, Chapora, Goa 403509 What’s Special? Dil Chahta hai has been shot here! The fort offers picturesque views of the Chapora river uniting with the waters of the Arabian Sea. Built By: Adil Shah of Bijapur Built-In: 1617 Nearby Attractions: Vagator Beach and Anjuna Beach How To Reach: The fort is well-connected and can be easily reached by road Entry Fee: No entry fee
3. Terekhol Fort: Serene Ambiance
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Fort Terekhol situated on the Terekhol River, lies on the northern tip of Goa, on a hillock overlooking the Arabian Sea. In its courtyard is the century-old church of St. Anthony which makes it one of the best Goa tourist places. The remains of the fort have now been converted into a hotel. The fort overlooks Tiracol River and the sandy Keri beach offering captivating views.
Location: Pernem Taluka, Tiracol, 403524 Built By: Raja of Sawantwadi Viceroy Pedro Miguel de Almeida Built-In: 17th century Houses: The Chapel Of St. Anthony Nearby Attractions: Arambol, Palolem Beach How To Reach: Terekhol fort can be reached easily by hiring a taxi or an auto from any place in the north of Goa. Entry Fee: No entry fee
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4. Reis Mogos Fort: For History Lovers
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The construction of this fort was done by Alfonso de Noronha, the Portuguese Viceroy in the year 1551. The fort was reconstructed in the year 1707. This fort served as a pivotal site by becoming a defensive wall when the Portuguese were at war with the Marathas in the year 1739. This fort is located at 7 kilometres from the Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand and lies on the banks of Mandovi.
Location: Verem, Bardez, Goa 403114 Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM all days of the week Built By: Alfonso de Noronha Built-In: 1551 Nearby Attractions: Keri Beach, Redi Ganpati Temple How To Reach: Terekhol fort can be reached easily by hiring a taxi or an auto from any place in the north of Goa. Entry Fee: No entry fee
5. Cabo De Rama Fort: Mythological Site
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Another one on our list of must visit places in Goa is the Cabo De Rama Fort. Popularly known by the name Cape of Rama, this fort is known for its historical as well as mythological significance. This fort was reconstructed by the Portuguese in the year 1763 after they seized it from the Maratha King of Sonda. This tourist site is located 60 kilometers from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand and lies in South Goa.
Location: Taluka Cabo da Rama, Canacona, Goa 403702 Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM all days of the week Built By: Portuguese Built-In: 1763 Nearby Attractions: Kakolem Beach, Agonda Beach How To Reach: You can reach the fort easily from any of the major hubs in south Goa via public transport. Entry Fee: No entry fee
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6. Corjuem Fort: Offers Excellent Panoramic Views
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Corjuem Fort is one of the smaller forts in Goa. It offers a great panoramic view of the surrounding beauties. Being one of the popular Goa destinations, it is a must-visit spot for architecture enthusiasts and history lovers. With its two inland forts, it is among those places which have survived into the 21st century.
Location: Corjuem, North Goa Timings: 6:00 AM – 7 PM Built-In: 1705 Built By: Portuguese Nearby Attractions: Aguada Fort, Calangute Beach How To Reach: The fort is well connected by road Entry Fee: No entry fee
Churches In Goa
Churches of Goa will bring you closer to the religious, historical as well as architectural aspects of this Indian state. Listed below are a few most-visited churches here that you must explore for a memorable trip.
7. Bom Jesus Basilica: Baroque Architecture
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One of the world-famous tourist places in Goa is the Bom Jesus Basilica. Characterized by Baroque architecture and fine detailing, carved from basalt embellishments, it is one of the richest facades in Goa. This is one of the best Goa tourist places to indulge in some tranquility.
Location: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa 403402 Timings: Monday to Saturday 09:00 AM to 06:30 PM & Sunday 10:00 AM to 06:30 PM Built By: Portuguese Built-In: 1609-1612 How To Reach: It is located around 10 km from Panjim in Old Goa. You can hire a taxi from Panjim to reach here in around 20 minutes. Entry Fee: No entry fee
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8. Se Cathedral: Largest Asian Church
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This church is known to be one of the largest Asian churches. One of the major Old Goa tourist places, this cathedral is established facing the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Se Cathedral has even been recorded as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and that too for all the right reasons. This cathedral has been established as a tribute to St. Catherine and is considered to be the Archdiocese’s seat in Goa.
Location: Velha, Goa 403402 Timings: 7 AM – 6:30 PM Built By: Julião Simão Built In: 1609-1612 How To Reach: The church is at a distance of 9 km from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand and can be easily reached by road. Entry Fee: No entry fee
9. Church Of St. Francis Of Assisi: World’s 2nd Largest Bell
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Goa has some of the most grand and elaborately designed churches of India. The Church Of St. Francis Of Assisi in Panjim is one among the oldest churches in Goa. A highlight of this place of worship is the statue of Mother Mary that has been installed right in front. The tower forms a striking backdrop to this statue. The church also preserves world’s 2nd largest bell, making it one of the famous places to visit in Goa.
Location: Off National Highway 4, Goa Velha, Goa 403110 Timings: 7 AM – 6:30 PM Built By: Portuguese Built-In: 1661 How To Reach: The church can be easily reached by road Entry Fee: No entry fee
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10. Church Of St. Cajetan: Stunning White Structure
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Church Of St. Cajetan is a charming Roman Catholic church in Old Goa. It is also known as Church of Divine Providence. Completed in 1661, this building has been brought under the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Churches and Convents of Goa, making it an unmissable part of every Goa sightseeing tour. The stunning white structure has large dome and inscriptions of Latin on its walls. Designed in the shape of a Greek cross, this architectural beauty is located close to the Mandovi River.
Location: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa 403402 Timings: 7 AM – 6:30 PM Built By: Portuguese Built-In: 1661 How To Reach: The church is well-connected by road Entry Fee: No entry fee
Iconic Places to Visit in Goa To Have Your Meal
You must have visited Goa several times, but here are a few iconic places to visit in Goa to experience eating out in altogether a different way. While some of these offer the most picturesque sunset, others will make you fall in love with their vibrance and ambience.
11. Thalassa Restaurant: Epicurean’s Delight
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One of the most famous restaurants amongst regular Goa tourists, Thalassa offers the perfect sunset view in Goa. Look for a table outside if you want to have the ideal experience at this place. The clear view of the expansive sea makes it certainly worth every penny.
Location: Plot No. 301, 1, Vaddy, Siolim, Goa 403517 Timings: 10:00 AM – 11:30PM all days of the week How To Reach: The place is well-connected by road Price For Two: INR 2000
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12. The Fisherman’s Wharf: For Seafood Lovers
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This place has been attracting crowds for years now. While Salcette offers a ship-like decor and serves delicious tandoori pomfret, masala fried prawns and fish curry rice. Live performances add up to the fun at this beautiful place. On Sundays, you can enjoy the live performances during lunch hours as well. The view of backwaters make the moments memorable for lifetime. So, next time you are in Goa, don’t forget to add this to your list of places to visit in Goa.
Location: Behind The Leela, Mobor, Cavelossim, Goa Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:30PM all days of the week How To Reach: The place is well-connected by road Price For Two: INR 1500
13. Anteras, Vagator: Sun-kissed Meals
Image Credit: Antares Restaurant & Beach Club for Facebook
Antares is a place to be if you are looking for some of the best of Goa famous places. Have a sun-kissed meal and wait till the sunset for an experience of its kind. You can pick anything from their authentic delicacies and you will not regret for the fact that their staff pours in immense creativity and dedication in each dish they serve.
Location: Small Vagator Beach, Ozran, Vagator, Goa Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:30PM all days of the week How To Reach: The place is well-connected by road Price For Two: INR 2000
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Famous Party Hubs In Goa
After all, what is Goa without the party clubs? These places to visit in Goa are not just places but rather an integral part of your itinerary. They ensure you make the most of your trip to Goa and satisfy your party animal!
14. Tito’s Club: Celebrity DJ’s
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The biggest entertainment hub in Goa hosts a steady stream of high profile and celebrity DJ’s with a huge dance floor and is amongst the best tourist attractions in Goa. The club also features a variety of special acts, dance performances and has the most versatile bartenders with fire acts and crazy bar flaring acts of their own. The club within a few months of opening its doors has already received the Times Nightlife Award for the “Best Nightclub in Goa”.
Location: Titos Ln, Near Baga Beach, Saunta Vaddo, Calangute, Goa Timings: 6 PM – 3 AM How To Reach: The place is well-connected by road Price For Two: INR 3,000
15. Mambo’s: Craziest Party Place
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It is one of the most happening tourist places in North Goa that has changed the clubbing scene in Goa and is among the craziest Goa places to visit. It club opens from 9pm onwards and is a chilled out zone to meet friends and catch up for a drink. With amazing in house DJs as well as renowned International DJ’s playing all sorts of music. Cafe Mambo also has special theme nights for retro music as well as trance night and also host many of the festivals in Goa.
Location: Titos Lane, Baga Beach, Goa, 403516 Timings: 6 PM – 4 AM How To Reach: The place is well-connected by road Price For Two: INR 3,000
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16. Britto’s: Tantalizing Bites
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De Baga Deck is a fine-dining Italian restaurant that serves some of the most scrumptious and tantalizing food in Goa. Tasty cocktails, great music, pleasing ambience and magical cuisines are the highlights of De Baga Deck. The ambience is unique given the large French windows through which you can enjoy uninterrupted and spectacular views of the Arabian Sea. De Baga Deck is open throughout the year. It specializes in seafood and multi-cuisines and you can gorge on Goan delicacies to your heart’s content after you’re exhausted from Goa sightseeing.
Location: House No.7, 171, Calangute – Baga Rd, Saunta Vaddo, Baga, Goa Timings: 8:30 AM – 12 AM How To Reach: The place is well-connected by road Price For Two: INR 3,200
Wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa
If wildlife fascinates you, then these amazing sanctuaries are some of the essential places to visit in Goa to make your trip more fulfilling and memorable!
17. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary: Goa’s Second Largest Wildlife Reserve
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Noted as Goa’s Second Largest Wildlife Reserve, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary may not be the place to see wild animals prowling but you get to see something different. Sloth Bears, Laughing Hyenas and Indian Bisons are a part of the community along with Monkeys and the Malabar Crested Eagle. Find yourself walking in the woods and enjoying the silence that descends on this sanctuary. This is one of the best places to explore in Goa to witness the intriguing wildlife.
Location: Canacona Taluka, Khotigao, Goa 403702 Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:30PM all days of the week How To Reach: You can hire a cab or taxi from Panaji Distance From Goa: 60 Kms south of Panaji
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18. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: Mangrove Forests
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Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on western extreme of The Chorao Island is where mangrove forests are worth exploring with the presence of species like mudskipper and black drongo. Named after an Indian ornithologist, the sanctuary is a nice escape into wilderness. This is one of the best places in Goa.
Location: Chorao Island, Ilhas, Ribandar, Goa Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM How To Reach: You can hire a cab or taxi from Panaji Distance From Goa: 58 Km
19. Mandovi-Zuari Wildlife Sanctuary: Rarest Of Species
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Mandovi-Zuari Wildlife Sanctuary is Goa’s most visited sanctuary and that is not without reason. Like other Wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa, Mandovi-Zuari attends to a host of species. You can spot the from the rarest of species of Kandelia Candel to a wide range of Birds, Snakes, Jackals and Crocodiles.
Location: Chorao Island, Ilhas, Ribandar, Goa Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM How To Reach: You can hire a cab or taxi from Panaji Distance From Goa: NA
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20. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary: Largest Wildlife Sanctuaries In Goa
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This wildlife sanctuary is a part of Mollem Village, which is located in Sanguem Taluka. Earlier, it was known by the name Mollem Game Sanctuary and it was in the year 1969 that it was given the name, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is considered to be the largest in the four wildlife sanctuaries of Goa. this sanctuary also covers within it the mesmerising Mollem National Park.
Location: Goa 403410 Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:30PM How To Reach: You can hire a cab or taxi from Panaji Distance From Goa: 10 km from Panaji
21. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Smallest Wildlife Sanctuaries In Goa
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Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is the smallest wildlife sanctuaries in Goa and is amongst popular Goa tourist places. Besides seeing a variety of flora and fauna species here, you can explore the deer safari park, botanical gardens and more. A famous place among photography enthusiasts, children and environmentalists, this wildlife sanctuary can be visited throughout the year.
Location: Usgao-Ganjem VP, Goa 403105 Timings: 9AM to 5PM (Monday closed) How To Reach: You can hire a cab or taxi from Panaji Distance From Goa: 34.3 Km
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Shopping Places In Goa
To satiate your shopaholism, you must visit the vibrant markets of Goa that are known for their wide varieties of clothes and accessories. Explore the markets mentioned below!
22. Mapusa Market: Famous Shopping Destination
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Mapusa is one of the many famous shopping destinations in Goa. Just outside Mapusa Municipal Market, you will find an array of stalls enticing you with local goods got by farmers and small entrepreneurs across the state You can shop for several artifacts, clothes, accessories, souvenirs and much more at the market while shopping in Goa.
Location: Mapusa Market Area, Panaji, Goa Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM What To Buy: Clothes, accessories, souvenirs
23. Saturday Night Market: Popular Flea Market
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This sprawling market is located in Arpora. One can find everything in this market – right from spices to jewellery, unique creations, international designers, vintage items and much more. Apart from that, it hosts live concerts. A lot of hippies frequent this market and sell goodies too. The Saturday night market has featured in Bollywood films too! It is one of the best liveliest getaways for sightseeing in Goa. This is one of the best places in Goa.
Location: Arpora, Goa Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM What To Buy: Jewellery, unique creations, international designers, vintage items
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24. Anjuna Flea Market: Favourite Hangout Among Backpackers
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Apart from the famous Curlies, Anjuna flea market is amongst the most popular tourist places in Goa. The flea market is open only on Wednesdays and offers many things, right from fruits to clothes and accessories to electronic devices. It’s a favourite hangout among hippies and backpackers. While you can find really unique items at this market, give your best shot at bargaining, ‘coz you can avail some great deals!
Location: 10, St. Michael’s Vaddo South, Anjuna, Goa 403509 Timings: October to March: 08:00 AM – 12:00 AM & 12:00 AM – 01:00 AM What To Buy: Souvenirs
Beaches In Goa
Beaches in Goa are its highlight and people from all around the country come here to spend the time of their lives and unwind themselves at the beaches! Scroll down to know what’s in store for you in some of the major beaches of Goa!
25. Aguada Beach: Delightful Views
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While Fort Aguada is known to soothe your eyes with delightful views of Aguada beach, it allures the travellers with pristine landscape and the background of ancient citadels. The beach is famous amongst honeymooners.
Location: Fort Aguada Rd, Aguada Fort Area, Candolim, Goa 403515 What’s Special? Do plan a trip to the lighthouse near by. It offers some gorgeous views of the beach from a height.
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