Leena Wadia
For those who are unaware, Goa is separated into two parts: South Goa and North Goa. Goa is the very first destination that comes to mind when you want to go on a budget-friendly holiday with your buddies to party and make moments that will last a lifetime. As a result, Goa is no longer merely a location to visit, but an adventure to be had. And for many years, Goa has been a preferred spot. Why not try something new this time and explore Goa to the fullest? Here is a list of the top ten most exotic places in Goa to spend quality time with your loved ones, party, unwind, or simply escape for a few days:
CALANGUTE BEACH
Known as the “Queen of Beaches” in Goa, Calangute Beach caters to all types of travellers, from nature lovers to adventure junkies to party freaks. Acting as a haven for nature lovers, in particular, this beach is the biggest and the most popular one in North Goa, boasting scintillating charm as well as beauty. Furthermore, it reflects the uniqueness that the culture of Goa generally has, in addition to offering beautiful and scenic views of the surrounding landscapes, which act as the perfect getaway destination for anyone who wishes to seek respite from the hustle and bustle of the busy city limits. Moreover, the beach is lined with dense palm and coconut trees with the grand Arabian Sea acting as the perfect backdrop. People often visit the beach to soak in the mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets which are a special feature of Calangute Beach. For a perfect tourist and holiday retreat, head over to this beach with your friends and family and enjoy the best of what North Goa has to offer.
DUDHSAGAR FALLS
The Dudhsagar Waterfalls are situated on the Goa-Karnataka border and are one of India’s must see sites. The four-tiered waterfall structure is one of the tallest in India and is located on the Mandovi River. Here, white water cascades down from a height of nearly 1017 feet off a nearly steep mountain face give a breathtaking view to cherish for years. The best way to reach them is by entering the Mollem national park and taking a van allocated by the park to the falls. The lush green jungle and the beautiful waterfall sending up their forceful sprays are a sight to remember long after you have left Dudhsagar behind.
FORT AGUADA
Another heritage from the Portuguese, Fort Aguada has been standing stern on the beach facing the Arabian Sea and stands as a famous Goa sightseeing place dividing the Sinquerium Beach and Candolim Beach. There is also an old lighthouse standing within the fort which was built in 1864, the oldest lighthouse of its shape and size in India. Fort Aguada is a great place to explore the architecture which gives a good insight into the building techniques of old Portuguese architects and it has some amazing views you should really see. Moreover, The old fort provides a good view of the sea and the sunset is reckoned to be lovely. So, head over to Fort Aguada and spend your time exploring it.
BASILICA OF BOM JESUS
The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church located in Old Goa is one of a kind in India and is known for its exemplary baroque architecture. Built in 1594 and consecrated in 1605, the building of this church coincides with the beginning of Christianity in India. It is the oldest church in Goa and holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier, a special friend of St. Ignatius Loyola with whom he founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). Even after 400 years, the remains are in good condition and are taken out once every decade. A site with rich cultural and religious significance, the Basilica of Bom Jesus has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Inside the church, the floor of the Basilica is made of marble mosaic with precious stones, giving it a solemn appearance. Its interior is embellished with a screen that runs from the floor to the ceiling and has the image of St. Ignatius Loyola protecting an infant Jesus. Above all is the image of the Holy Trinity, which is the most sacred symbol in Christianity.
ANJUNA BEACH
Folded up by the azure water of the Arabian Sea and with hills in the background, Anjuna Beach in Goa is a perfect paradise for beach lovers. Situated just 8 km away in the west of Mapusa town, this beach is blessed with a bizarre array of red laterite rocks. It is beautifully embellished with picturesque sceneries and so the place is reckoned among the hottest tourist destination of India. Further, its credible palms and rocky crescent give great pleasure to be at Anjuna Beach. It’s distinguished due to the formation of unusual rock placed on a small inlet of white sand and black rock protruding into the sea. Rejuvenate yourself in a pleasurable atmosphere of the soothing surrounding casting a magic charm and the soft frothing waves snuggling your feet.
AGONDA BEACH
Agonda Beach is a carpet of white sands dotted with colorful shacks giving authentic Goan vibes. The Arabian Sea on this part is passionately touching the shores of the shining beach dotted with lush green coconut and palm trees. It is one of the cleanest beaches of Goa which are remarkably less crowded. You can spend a very calm alone time amidst the peaceful silence of the beach.
You can also find some cozy shacks which have a warm, welcoming vibe attracting people to enter it and relax a little bit. These shacks serve a variety of original local cuisines along with chosen delicacies from around the world. They provide you with beach beds where you can lie down under the umbrellas or hang inside a hammock watching the scenes around the beach. There are various spots at the beach, where you can sign up for water sports and enjoy a distinct variety of adventures offering water sports like jet skiing, surfing, etc. This whole package of fun on one stretch of sand is no less than a party. Come here to enjoy everything Agonda beach has for you.
BONDLA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is the smallest and very famous sanctuary amongst the children and the environmentalists. The sanctuary has a number of species of flora and fauna. The species of animals and plants which one gets to see here is some of the rarest one in India. Many Photography enthusiasts from all over the country come to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary just to capture a beautiful moment, of the animals or the plants, in their camera. The area of the sanctuary is just 8 square km, making it the aptest wildlife sanctuary as one can tour the entire place in one day itself. It is just 47 km away from Panaji.
SPLASHDOWN WATERPARK
It is one of the largest and best water parks in Goa. The water park comprises multi-storied slides, wave pool, leisure pool, cannonball slides, lazy river, adventure walk, and the list continues. There are five big slides for adults and 12 smaller slides for kids that will keep you occupied the whole day. However, the major attraction is the ‘Zip Hand Glide’, which lets you glide across the water park. The place also has a beautiful garden with lush green trees and flowering plants where you can relax after the thrilling rides. The water park also has a fodder section like BBQs, Pizza Corner, and Café, which serve delicious food to gorge on. Located on Calangute-Anjuna main road you can visit this thrilling place.
ANJUNA FLEA MARKET
Anjuna Flea Market is one of the most famous shopping places in North Goa. Flea markets are a quintessential Goan experience and the Anjuna Flea market is one of the best in Goa. The market is set up every Wednesday and is a perfect place for real shoppers. You can snag some great cloth pieces for really good rates at the market. The market holds a large assortment of shops selling clothes, home décor, Indian spices, handicrafts, jewellery, souvenirs, trinkets, footwear, and musical instruments. This vibrant market is sure to allure you; all you have to do is get ready for some serious bargaining. Explore your shopping skills over here.
MAPUSA MARKET
An outstanding location for every enthusiastic shopper, Mapusa Market is just the normal Goan bazaar for most of the week, but If you want to experience the real flavors of traditional Goan shopping, explore Mapusa market on a sunny Friday morning where you can find just about anything, with items ranging from antiques and Goan pottery to handicrafts, its dried and fresh fish, spices, homemade pickles, fruits, vegetables, Goa’s famous ‘chouricos’ sausages, textiles, clothing, coir mats, jewellery and much more at a reasonable price makes shopping fun and satisfying. So comes across this place and test your bargaining skills.
If you’re planning a trip to Goa, you might want to consider this checklist in mind. Some of the best day and night beaches in Goa are listed above. You’ve already prepared a conceptual selection of the top spots to explore, particularly beachside. If not, get one started right away.
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