If chilling at a shack, sipping on an even more chilled beverage and simply watching the world turn on its axis is what you desire,... Read More
then a Goa tour is what you need! Goa conjures mental images of golden sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, calm yoga retreats and not-so-calm parties. Situated along the west coast of India, Goa is one of the smallest territories in the country. This beachside gem of India has a 100 km long coastline which stretches across the whole state, making Goa one large beach paradise.
Calangute Beach,
Candolim Beach and Baga Beach are some of the famous beaches. But there are beaches that lie off the beaten path, known to but a few. However, Goa isn't limited to just beaches. It is a destination that keeps surprising you with unexpected gems and the best way to find these is by taking a Goa tour package with Thomas Cook India.
If there's one thing Goa knows, it is how to throw the ultimate party. Along with parties and nightlife, one can also enjoy adventurous activities and watersports on their trip to Goa. Not to forget Goa's culinary heritage which is like a Goan holiday for your taste buds, which will give them a break from their regular fare and tantalise and tease them. Warm people, pleasant weather and no shortage of things to do in Goa make it a mecca for holiday seekers. Whether you are planning a long vacation with friends or desire a holiday with your family, Goa is the place to be.
Most Popular Goa Tour Packages for 2024
| Tour Packages Name | Duration | Price |
|---|
| Amazing Georgia | 5 Nights 6 Days | Rs. 71 935 |
| Simply Georgia | 5 Nights 6 Days | Rs. 85 753 |
| Highlights Of Georgia (Summer 2024) | 4 Nights 5 Days | Rs. 98 927 |
| Memorable Georgia | 6 Nights 7 Days | Rs. 91 313 |
| Wonderful Georgia | 6 Nights 7 Days | Rs. 91 313 |
What is the best way to reach Goa? Some would say you could drive down taking the scenic route. Others prefer flying to get here quickly and get the party started. And a few would rather take a leisurely cruise to reach the beach capital of India. Still, the best way to get here is by simply choosing from Thomas Cook India’s range of Goa tour packages to see Goa in a new light. Visiting
Thomas Cook India’s website, you will find Goa tour packages for every kind of Goa package. Right from brief Goa tours lasting 3 nights and 4 days to a leisurely Goa holiday that takes 8 nights and 9 days, embodying Goa's spirit of 'sussegado'. With Thomas Cook India's Goa tour packages, every Goa trip is what you make it. You are firmly in control of every aspect of your Goa holiday package, right from the budget, with pocket-friendly Goa trip packages starting at INR 7,099/-, to premium Goa holidays that cost about INR 5,02,597/-, to the itinerary and even travel costs. Every Goa tour package by Thomas Cook India is personalised to your comfort and taste.
The Goa tour packages at Thomas Cook India are curated by a team of travel experts whose goal is to make your Goa tours full of memories that last a lifetime. Every aspect of your trip to Goa is carefully chalked out considering the unique requirements, diverse interests and budget of every individual. Right from accommodation to sightseeing choices and transportation to meals, every facet of your Goa holiday is given a great deal of thought. What’s more? Thomas Cook India's Goa tour packages are available from all major cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi and Cochin.
If you want to learn more about Goa before your trip to Goa, then visit our Goa tourism section which has resources covering everything you need to know such as things to do in Goa, best time to visit in Goa, places to see in Goa and much more.
Table of Contents
- Most Popular Goa Tour Packages
- Best Time to Visit Goa
- How to Reach Goa?
- Best honeymoon destinations in Goa
- Places to Visit in Goa
- The Top 5 Beaches in Goa
- Food in Goa
- Things to do in Goa
- Shopping in Goa
- Adventurous things to do in Goa
- Interesting Facts about Goa
- People also ask about Goa Tour Packages
Best Time to Visit Goa
The best time to visit Goa is from mid-November to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the sky is clear. It is the perfect time to unwind at the beach and explore this beautiful state. During December, Goa witnesses some major celebrations like Christmas and New Year. The winter season in Goa is marked by several carnivals, parades, parties and festivals. During winter, the restaurants and streets are decorated with lights and decorations, making it a tropical winter wonderland. As winter also happens to be the peak tourist season for Goa tours and travels, it’s advisable to book flight tickets and accommodations way prior. You can easily find multiple Goa packages for these months.
Alternatively, if you wish to indulge in some water sports on your Goa tour or simply just laze around at the beach, summer proves to be the best time to visit Goa. Spend considerably less money on accommodation and travel during Summer as it is an off-season. If you wish to indulge in some yoga retreats and massage therapies, summer afternoons are the best time to keep you hale and hearty. Also get a chance to witness some amazing festivals like Shigmo - a street festival that portrays Goan culture in the form of folk dances and music, Easter, Grape Escapade - a wine festival, India Bike Week, the Goa Heritage Festival and much more! Go through our website to find suitable Goa packages for your trip during the summer season.
How to Reach Goa
Before you look for ideal Goa holiday packages for your trip, make sure to learn about the best way to reach the destination.
Reaching Goa is easy as it is accessible by air, rail, road and sea.
Reaching Goa by Air
There is only one airport in Goa that connects all domestic and international destinations and that is Dabolim airport. It is situated near Vasco da Gama and is located about 29 km from Panaji. Travelling to Goa with Thomas Cook India’s Goa tours is an easy affair as you can board a flight from all the major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Cochin, Kolkata and Chennai. Also, note that most of our Goa packages come with the inclusion of optional flights.
Reaching Goa by Rail
Many tourists opt for train travel to save money on transport for their Goa tours. There are two main railheads located in the state which are Vasco da Gama and Madgaon. Vasco da Gama railway station is located about 29 km away from Panaji while Madgaon station lies about 38 km away. From the railheads, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to get to other tourist destinations in Goa.
Reaching Goa by Road
In addition to the previous modes of travel, you can hire a private car for your Goa trip or take a bus from nearby cities like Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore. You can take the NH4, which is well-maintained and extremely smooth while travelling to Goa from these cities. Take NH14 if you wish to travel to Goa from the south.
Reaching Goa by Sea
Goa can also be reached by sea route. There are certain cruises that cover the route from Mumbai to Panaji.
Best honeymoon destinations in Goa
Goa can also be reached by sea route. There are certain cruises that cover the route from Mumbai to Panaji. Have your dream vacation in Goa with your loved one by going with the honeymoon special Goa packages offered by Thomas Cook.
| Places to Visit |
Known for |
| Butterfly Beach |
One can not wrap up the conversation about the best honeymoon destinations in Goa without talking about Butterfly Beach, also known as the “Honeymoon Beach”. Located a few kilometres from Palolem, it is one of the lesser-known beaches in the region. However, it is among the most beautiful and secluded tourist attractions in the state, formed like a small cove bordered by turquoise sea waters and lush green trees on either side. One can reach the beach by going for an adventurous forest hike or via a ferry ride. However, the picturesque landscape that Butterfly Beach offers is not its only upside. Newlyweds can spend romantic time amidst its serene ambience, watch the gorgeous sunset, sight dolphins, take leisurely strolls on the wet sand, and so on, on this beach during their Goa tours and travels. You can easily find Goa packages that include a visit to this popular site. |
| Grande Island: |
Another well-known site in Goa that can act as a romantic getaway for honeymooners is Grande Island, originally called “Iha Grande”. Its tranquil environment and vibrant natural elegance are some of the factors that make it a popular attraction for couples in the region. The boat ride to the island itself is a cool experience that newlyweds can look forward to. Besides this, individuals can also get on short boat rides from the island to witness the nearby attractions like Central Hail, Aguada Fort, the Lighthouse, etc., from the sea. Couples looking for an adventurous take on their honeymoon will also find Grande Island to be a great spot. There are tons of activities that the place has to offer tourists, including dolphin spotting rides, snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing and so on. Hence, it is one of the most versatile and popular honeymoon destinations in Goa. Explore Grande Island and other renowned local tourist attractions by going with the Goa packages offered by Thomas Cook. |
| Arvalem Waterfall |
Located in Sanquelim, the Arvalem Waterfall is one of the main highlights of tourism in North Goa. It may not be as grand as Dudhsagar Falls, but it has its own unique charm. Besides having a drop of about 50 metres, it becomes a popular tourist attraction during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its highest. Visitors love the peaceful atmosphere and surrounding beauty of the region. It also acts as a romantic getaway for honeymooners, where they can have a delightful picnic, spend some lovely time by the falls and carry on their honeymoon photoshoot. The Arvalem caves and Rudreshwar Temple in the vicinity add some spiritual and thrilling elements to this tourist spot. Overall, it is a majestic location that couples can consider visiting when in Goa for their honeymoon. |
| Velsao Beach |
Goa is the land of numerous beaches, and among them, Velsao Beach stands out to be a prominent spot for honeymooners. Located in South Goa, this golden sandy beach stretches quite long and is surrounded by lush greenery on one side and calm sea waves on the other. Despite being a popular beachside honeymoon destination in Goa, it remains free from massive tourist crowds. Hence, couples can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the place in each other’s company as the waves wash up to the shore. The region also has the availability of resorts and restaurants, fitting the theme of an ideal honeymoon. The nearby tourist attractions and nightlife places also add to the charm of Velsao Beach. Make the most out of the beach visits on your tour with the Goa trip packages offered by Thomas Cook. |
| Chorao Island |
Lying at a distance of 5 kilometres from Panaji, Chorao Island has become a renowned honeymoon getaway for both tourists and locals alike. It is one of the best places in the state where individuals can witness the remnants of Portuguese settlements and culture. From massive villas to white-washed churches, the Portuguese architectural style is evident everywhere in this region. Honeymooners can have a memorable time at this island doing things like visiting Shree Devki Krishna Temple, learning about the Feni-making process, going on a boat ride on Mandovi River, bird watching at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, checking out St. Bartholomew’s Church, and so on. |
Places to Visit in Goa
Despite being a beach hub, there’s many other things to do in Goa ranging from visiting beautiful historical churches to adventure activities, ayurvedic retreats, culinary classes and much more. Here are the different places to visit in Goa.
North Goa
- Panaji or Panjim : Lying on the banks of the Mandovi river, Panaji is the cultural and administrative heart of Goa. Home to some beautiful churches and quaint quarters, Panaji offers a snapshot of Goa's true culture and heritage and is an interesting addition to your Goa trip. Its Portuguese inspired architecture makes it seem quite European while it's many fish thali restaurants bring you aromas and tastes that are uniquely Indian. Panaji’s streets are also lined with glowing gulmohars and acacias, which make walking around this planned city an absolute delight. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fort Aguada, Goa Archaeological Museum, Reis Magos Fort and other stunning destinations are just a stone's throw away from Panaji. It is often seen as the starting point for tours in most Goa trip packages.
- Velha Goa: This is a must on your Goa itinerary if you happen to be an architecture aficionado. Blessed with some beautiful Portuguese-style churches, tall forts and modern museums, Velha Goa is one of the most iconic places to visit in Goa. Understand more about the rich and cultural past of Goa and interact with the locals get to know about the history of this beautiful city. With quaint and bright coloured houses, local street places to shop for some pretty souvenirs and lip-smacking Goan delicacies to eat - Velha Goa proves that tourism in Goa is not only about beaches!
- Chapora Fort: Chapora Fort moved out of obscurity and onto the lists of places to visit in North Goa after being featured in the Bollywood blockbuster, Dil Chahta Hai. Built in 1717, the fort has borne witness to various historical events. Standing guard on a hill close to the Chapora River, this defensive structure, once used to deter invaders, now welcomes tourists with excellent views of the surrounding areas offering a palm-fringed panoramic view of villages and the mighty sea. The view alone puts Chapora Fort on everyone's list of places to visit in North Goa.
- Shri Mahalaxmi Temple : If you are looking for a tourist attraction for spiritual tours while in North Goa, make sure to visit the Shri Mahalaxmi Temple. Located about 4 kilometers from Ponda, it is one of the most crucial religious shrines and a prominent Hindu pilgrimage point in Goa. The temple is dedicated to the deity Goddess Mahalaxmi, and besides devotees, thousands of casual tourists also visit it around the year. According to history, the current shrine was founded in 1866 following the destruction of the original temple by Portuguese attacks. The divine charm, peaceful ambience and traditional Konkani temple architecture of the Shri Mahalaxmi Temple are some of its main highlights. The temple is one of the main highlights of tourism in the region, and you can easily find it in the popular Goa packages.
- Goa State Museum : The Goa State Museum, also called the State Archaeology Museum, is a well-known tourist attraction in Panaji for visitors interested in regional history. Records show that the museum is home to over 8,000 artefacts, ranging from things like ancient sculptures and manuscripts to anthropological objects and rare coins. It features fourteen galleries dedicated to preserving certain aspects of history, like Contemporary Art, Printing History, Sculpture Gallery, etc. It is a must-visit place for history buffs and individuals who want to learn more about Goa while it was under Portuguese colonial rule. Before visiting, tourists must know that the museum has temporarily been shifted to the Old Secretariat Building in the state due to ongoing renovations.
South Goa
- Vasco da Gama: This old town is an epitome of Goa's Portuguese heritage. Dotted with historical monuments, Vasco da Gama is to South Goa what Panjim is to the north. With bustling marketplaces and restaurants serving less touristy and more authentic Goan fare, Vasco da Gama is the complete package. During your Goa holiday in Vasco da Gama, you can also visit off-beat places such as Sahakari spice farms where they organically grow spices, fruits and herbs. Experience everything the town has to offer with suitable Goa packages featuring Vasco da Gama.
- Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Dudhsagar, which means ‘sea of milk’, is a gorgeous waterfall located on the Goa-Karnataka border. Surrounded by lush green forests, the waterfall emerges from the top of a crescent shaped valley, making the view of this place magical and mesmerizing. The whole scene presents itself as a beautiful canvas that will be firmly rooted in your memories forever. The sound of birds chirping, rustling trees and the rushing sound of water only enhance the beauty of this place. You can simply go with customisable Goa packages and add this site if it doesn’t come as standard.
- Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the eastern part of South Goa, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the must-visit places in South Goa. A paradise for naturalists and those looking for something different from the beaches and regular tourist spots in South Goa, this sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including Giant Squirrel, Great Pied Hornbills, Grey Headed Bulbul, Slender Loris, and an exciting range of mammals, butterflies, and birds.
- Three Kings Church: While sightseeing in South Goa, make sure to check out the renowned Three Kings Church. The main reason behind its popularity has to do with the mysterious and haunting stories associated with the place. However, these are mostly rumours, and the beautiful church sitting on top of a small hill offers a more delightful picture than the stories suggest. Tourists looking for a spiritual and serene getaway in Goa other than beaches often make a trip to this church. Also, the view of the sea and the surrounding greenery offer a great setting that will help you relax your mind. If you are visiting in early January, make sure to check out the renowned Feast of Three Kings Chapel event held on January 6th every year.
- Cabo de Rama Fort: The Cabo de Rama Fort is another major highlight of South Goa sightseeing. It is a mediaeval hillfort and one of the oldest of its kind in the state. Even though it is mostly in ruins, it still stands tall to date with its incredible architecture and solid build. Located near the mouth of River Sal, the fort offers picturesque views of the shoreline and the ocean. It served under various rulers, with the last being the Portuguese, who converted it into a prison from a military bastion. Tourists like to visit the fort for its rich history, to watch the sunset and take memorable pictures. The church within the premises of the fort is still regularly used. A trip to this fort is a common inclusion in most popular Goa holiday packages.
The Top 5 Beaches in Goa
While you are looking for Goa holiday packages, here are some of the best Goa beaches you can consider exploring during your visit:
- Arambol Beach: Arambol beach is a beach stuck in time. A throwback to the 'Generation of Love', this beach has a distinct Bohemian vibe that puts it on the list of places to visit in North Goa. It is ideal for those who prefer spending a quiet night in, listening to the waves or taking a moonlit stroll on the beach. This rocky beach is sparsely populated by locals and tourists alike, making it ideal for those wishing to spend some romantic moments with their significant other. You can even shop for knick-knacks and junk jewellery from the small shops lining the beach or have a delicious healthy meal at one of the many quaint, organic cafes around Arambol.
- Calangute: Do you wish to relax and chill during your Goa Vacation? Calangute is just the place for you! The ‘Queen of Beaches’, as it is famously known, welcomes you with its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife and exciting culture. With a plethora of water sports offered by this beautiful destination, all your adventure cravings will be fed. And oh, how can you forget to try the famous Goan delicacies and freshly brewed beer? With quaint shacks, towering palm trees swaying by the wind and the sea breeze, Calangute is the perfect place to relax and chill.
- Baga: Wish to swim along beautiful fishes and explore the underwater life? Make your wish come true at this beautiful beach. For the adventure junkie in you, there is a list of water sports in Goa you can indulge in at this alluring beach. Goan delicacies, ayurvedic spas, small food stalls, shacks and a great shopping experience are just a few things that make Baga beach worth visiting.
- Candolim: Home to vibrant resorts and a glorious beach, Candolim beach packs in a lot of surprises. Soothe and relax your body, mind, and soul with Ayurvedic massages from the experts. Thrilling water sport activities, soft sandy beaches and a chance to spot some alluring dolphins are some things this place will surprise you with!
- Benaulim: With its bewitching shoreline and shimmering white sands strewn with sea shells, Benaulim oozes the Goan ideal of 'sussegado'. From a quiet dip in the ocean, a picnic on the beach or a beverage at a beach bar, you can do it all here. Compared to other beaches in South Goa,Benaulim and its neighbouring beach, Colva, have a buzzing nightlife scene; so this beach needs to be on your Goa itinerary if you wish to let your hair down and dance all night in South Goa.
Famous Foods in Goa
Our Goa tour packages can offer an amazing experience as Goa is basically a blend of culture, colour, zest and heritage. Goancuisine plays a very important role in depicting that. Goan food is one of the major crowd pullers in the state. Due to the Portuguese colonialism in the past and the existing communities of Konkani, Hindus and Catholics, Goan food is basically an influence from all these communities. Goa has an assorted platter and some of the cuisine that one should try are mentioned below.
- Goan Fish Curry
- Chicken Cafreal
- Bebinca
Goan Fish Curry
Goa is blessed with a long coastline, which brings in an opportunity for fishing and an abundant supply of fish. This means fish curry features prominently on most menus in Goa. Fish curry isn't a blanket term or a one size fits all solution to cooking. With ample seafood like prawns, sharks, lobsters, crabs, pomfret, snapper, barramundi, clams, mackerels, mussels, and oysters come ample curries that are just as lip-smacking as the next. The common thread tying them all together is their use of fiery chilli, soothing creamy coconut, piquant spices like Triphala and souring agents like kokum. The combination of fish curry and rice essentially forms the staple food of Goa and can be called the traditional Goan meal. This tangy and spicy curry gives the perfect experience of Goa’s food traditions and culture. Add on a side of fried fish and prepare to be transported to culinary heaven.
Chicken Cafreal
Goa loves its pork and beef. Chicken isn't always the first choice of meat unless its Chicken Cafreal. Originating from Africa, this dish has been brought to Goa by the Portuguese. This is spicy chicken made from coriander, lime, green chillies, peppercorns and mint. Cooking this in the traditional Goan way gives it an additional smoky taste which provides a completely out-of-the-world experience.
Bebinca
Traditionally served during Christmas, Bebinca is one of the most enjoyed desserts of Goa. It is a multi-layered cake made with eggs, fresh coconut milk, sugar and pure ghee. Eaten hot or cold, this confection is laden with calories and love, as making it is no easy feat.
Things to do in Goa
While the run of the mill sightseeing included in most Goa tour packages will introduce you to the most popular places in Goa, you can add a few experiences to your Goa trip package to maximize its value. Here’re a few activities you can partake in to see a different side of Goa.
- Chill at a shack at Anjuna beach
- Live the Aquatic Life at Baga Beach
- Visit some amazing churches
- Feel Blessed at Shri Bhagvati temple
Chill at a shack at Anjuna beach
While on your Goa holiday, indulge in some scrumptious seafood and sip on a chilled beverage as you rub shoulders with people from all over the world, at the shacks at Anjuna beach. Take a stroll through the streets of Anjuna and Chapora and shop for some pretty souvenirs at the night markets or go to a beach party and dance until dawn at Anjuna beach. Take a walk on the white sandy beach and unwind during your Goa holidays.
Live the Aquatic Life at Baga Beach
Learn the art of scuba diving and swim alongside the beautiful creatures of the sea. Indulge in water sports like jet skiing, motorboat ride, banana boat ride, river cruise and dolphin rides to feed the adrenaline junkie in you. Calm your body and soul by taking an ayurvedic spa. Laze around at the beach, soak up the sun at Baga beach. This is the perfect activity for every Goa holiday.
Visit some amazing churches
Your vacation to Goa doesn't have to be just about fun in the sun.Seek some blessings at St. Cajetan Church in Velha Goa. Walk down the lane of Goa’s history at this beautiful monument. Know more about the old tales and stories by interacting with the locals. Check out some awe-inspired Italian paintings and the Corinthian columns at this domed church during your Goa trip.
Feel Blessed at Shri Bhagvati temple
As part of your Goa packages, visit the serene and historic Shri Bhagvati temple in Goa. Hire a boat and take in the serene views around the temple. You will be surprised to listen to different birds chirping around this locality. Go on a retail therapy and shop for some fancy handicrafts and souvenirs during your Goa holiday.
Famous Shopping in Goa
Below are the most popular shopping places to visit during your Goa trip package.
- Anjuna Flea Market
- Arpora Night Market
- Baga Tibetan Market
- Mapusa Market
- Panjim Market
- Ingo’s Saturday Night Bazaar
- Calangute Market Square
Anjuna Flea Market
Every Wednesday, Anjuna plays host to the most famous Anjuna flea market in Goa. Here, you will find everything from clothes and home décor to a range of Indian spices and even musical instruments. What started off as a way to let hippies sell their stuff and earn some money to sustain themselves has now become a platform for cool, chic brands to peddle their wares. There is also a lot of food and entertainment on offer, too. This is the quintessential Goa experience that will be the highlight of your Goa trip.
Arpora Night Market
This bustling Arpora night market sees a lot of tourists every weekend. It’s filled with a number of food stalls, clothes and knickknack vendors, and entertainment options from across the world. Shop for all kinds of souvenirs here to take home from your Goa holiday. Browse through the wide list of Goa trip packages on our website to find a suitable planned tour for you and your family.
Baga Tibetan Market
This market is open from October to May and here, you will find some really great jewellery and other curios and even furniture. If you want to test your bargaining skills during your Goa holiday, this would be the place to start.
Mapusa Market
Mapusa market is a big hit with locals as well as tourists who want fresh produce ranging from vibrant vegetables and fruits to fresh seafood like lobster and prawns. It also has many vendors selling everything from spices and condiments to clothes and flip flops. Definitely a must visit on your Goa holiday. You can easily customise your vacation per your requirements by going with the customisable Goa trip packages offered on our page.
Panjim Market
Mapusa market's elder sister, Panjim market, is a city of its own and a shopper’s paradise. Visit this market at the end of your Goa holiday to carry back Goa’s famous cashew nuts, port wine and spices. It also has some pretty great restaurants and is decorated with murals by Mario Miranda.
Ingo’s Saturday Night Bazaar
It is another distinct market in Goa that remains filled with both locals and tourists. It features a number of shops and small stalls, all selling a variety of goods at various price ranges. You can find items like textiles, carpets, spices, fashion products, etc., at this location. Ingo's Saturday night bazaar usually sets up around November and stays open from 4 PM to 11 PM. You can get some decent deals if you have a keen eye for quality and the right amount of bargaining skills. It is one of the best places to shop for regional handicraft products.
Calangute Market Square
The Calangute Market Square is one of the most popular shopping areas in Goa. It is located near Calangute Beach, which is a well-known tourist attraction. This is one of the reasons why it remains filled with shoppers throughout. It features multiple stores selling all kinds of goods, including beachwear, carpets, seashell art pieces, home decor, etc. If you are interested in souvenir shopping on a budget, consider visiting this market. You can also use your bargaining skills to secure discounts on goods while shopping at Calangute Market Square. Look for Goa trip packages that include a stay near Calangute Beach, so you can easily check out this market square during your visit.
Adventurous things to do in Goa
Goa is a one-stop destination for adventure tourism, even if you are looking for thrilling activities to do on water, land or in the air. Among the tons of available options, here are some that you can consider during your holidays in Goa:
- Kayaking : Kayaking is a simple but fun adventure activity that you can enjoy solo, with a friend or in a group. It involves navigating through the calm river or sea water in a small, canoe-shaped boat with the help of paddles. The rivulets and backwaters in Goa offer the perfect conditions that enable kayaking activities. Besides being fun, it also presents a new perspective on exploring the scenic beauty of the region. For added thrills, individuals can consider visiting the Kayak festivals, participating in Kayak races or going for moonlight kayaking. Some of the best places for this activity in Goa include Nerul River, Dona Paula Jetty, the backwaters of Zuari, etc. If you can’t find this activity in the available Goa trip packages, you may contact your tour operator and request its inclusion.
- Scuba diving: Goa is one of the most popular places in India for Scuba diving activities. It attracts divers from not only India but foreign countries, who love to participate in this activity for the fun of it. It involves swimming underwater while using scuba gear and requires a decent bit of skills. The vibrant coral reefs, incredible marine life and clear sea waters add to making this experience a memorable one. First-timers who know how to swim can take on a 1-hour training session, put on the gear and go for scuba diving adventures at the various islands or beaches in the region. The best places to visit for this activity in Goa include Grande Island, Calangute Beach and Baga Beach.
- White water rafting : White water rafting is as thrilling as it gets when it comes to adventure activities in Goa. It is a challenging yet fun activity that will get your adrenaline flowing. This recreational activity involves navigating through the gushing river streams on an inflatable raft with the help of paddles. White water rafting requires quick thinking and synchronised teamwork, adding to the element of high-risk, high reward. Some of the best spots for river rafting in Goa are the Tillari River and the Mhadei River.
- Jetskiing: A beachside visit is never complete without going for jetski rides. So, when beach-hopping in Goa, consider going for this quick ride. This activity involves riding a jet ski at high speeds over the Goan waves. It is one of those thrilling adventures that you can enjoy solo or with a companion. In case you are unfamiliar with how it operates, you can just relax and enjoy the ride as a passenger while a skilled operator handles the steering. Jetskiing is offered across various beaches in Goa, including the likes of Mobor Beach, Candolim Beach and Miramar Beach.
- ATV biking: If you are inclined towards adventure activities on land during your Goa trip, consider going for ATV biking. In this activity, individuals have to ride on a quad bike over uneven surfaces and off-road terrain. ATV biking offers a unique blend of fun and challenge, which fits both beginners and experienced riders. It is also a great way to explore the surrounding natural beauty of the region and capture alluring scenic views. Whether you go on solo or group rides, ATV biking in Goa will leave a memorable mark on your holidays. Some well-known places where you can avail of this adventure are Anjuna and Ponda.
Things to do in Goa apart from visiting Goa beaches
Tourism in Goa goes far beyond just its magnificent beaches. Here are some interesting things you can do besides visiting beaches during your Goa trip;
- Clubbing
- Crocodile tour
- Bike trips
- Food tour
- Attend a local festival
- Historical tours
Clubbing
Goa’s vibrant nightlife and party culture attract individuals from all over the globe. You can find all the key elements of partying, such as exotic venues, cheap alcohol, wild trance music, etc., at every nook and corner of this state. Apart from its beach parties, you can take your pick out of the hundreds of nightclubs Goa has to offer, such as Tito’s Bar and Club, SinQ Nightclub, Club Cabana, etc.
Crocodile tour
Go on a boat ride in the backwaters of the Cambarjua Canal and try to spot crocodiles and an exotic range of birds. The place is referred to as the primary hub in the state where you can go for crocodile safari. The aspect of witnessing 4 to 5-metre-long crocodiles basking on the muddy terrain is as exciting as it sounds.
Bike trips
The inland of Goa holds an array of exciting tourist spots you can check out on your own accord by renting a bike or a scooty. The state is one of the most sought-after places in the country for bike riding trips, known for its remarkable natural beauty, bike trails and hidden tourist spots. So, during your Goa tours and travels, make sure to rent a bike or scooty and ride through the beautiful Goan streets.
Food tour
During your Goa tours and travels, you just can’t miss out on the exceptional regional cuisine. From mouth-watering street foods to chef’s special authentic Goan delicacies, there’s plenty to explore food-wise in this state. So, if you consider yourself a foodie, spare a day or two to go on a Goa food tour.
Attend a local festival
The culture and traditions of Goa show a unique blend of local and foreign influences. If you want to learn more about the place and its people, consider visiting Goa at the time of a major local event so you can attend it and be a part of the celebrations. Some major festivals and events that individuals can check out during their Goa tours include the Goa Carnival, Feast of Saint Francis Xavier, Goa Food and Culture Festival, Sao Joao Festival, etc.
Historical tours
The history of Goa is very rich and dates back thousands of years. History enthusiasts from all over the country and the world like to visit this state to learn about its diverse past. Goa is still home to a wide number of historical sites and landmarks in perfect condition, such as forts, churches, ancient shrines, petroglyphs, etc. So, if you have an interest in Goa’s past or Indian history in general, consider going on historical tours during your trip.
Interesting Facts about Goa
These interesting facts about Goa can be read by travelers considering Goa tour packages for their upcoming vacation:
- Goa is the smallest state in the country in terms of area. It covers a total area of around 3,702 square kilometres. It also has a 160-kilometre-long coastline, which is home to 35 beaches in total.
- Tourists often call Goa “the tropical paradise of India”, as more than a third of its land is covered by lush greenery and dense forests. Get a chance to explore its natural side by going with the Goa travel packages available on our page.
- The region is home to several exotic species of wildlife, including the likes of Indian Macaques, Indian giant squirrels, mongoose, sloth bears, etc.
- Goa has a massive nightlife scene with tons of restaurants, beachside bars, nightclubs, etc. The availability of cheap alcohol and frequent parties also add to its popularity as a partygoer’s paradise. It is said that there are nearly 7,000 bars in total across the region.
- While most of India was once under British colonial rule, Goa was a major centre of Portuguese settlement for around 450 years. Various examples of such a rich history can still be found across the region in the form of churches, historical landmarks, building architecture, etc.
- Goa is a go-to spot for bird-watching activities as its unique biodiversity creates a perfect habitation for several birds. It is home to over 400 species of bird, including the Indian Skimmer, long-billed vulture, Asian Fairy Bluebird, etc.
- Every year, Goa celebrates its independence on a different day than the rest of the country, which is on December 19th. The day is called Goa Liberation Day, which marks the state’s liberation from the long Portuguese colonial rule that happened in 1961.
- The Dudhsagar waterfall in Goa is one of the highest waterfalls in all of India. It has a drop of 310 metres and an average width of around 30 metres. Goa tours are incomplete without checking out this site.
- The one and only Naval Aviation Museum in all of Asia is located in Goa. It is based in Bogmalo and features a total of 13 decommissioned aircraft.
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