Goa is a state located on the southwest coast of India, famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture and laid-back atmosphere. It is a popular tourist destination with domestic and international visitors and offers something for everyone, from budget travelers to luxury enthusiasts.

Tourist attraction

Goa is home to many popular tourist attractions, including:

Beaches:

Goa has over 100km of coastline, with beaches to suit every taste. Some of the most famous beaches include Baga, Calangute, Anjuna, Palolem and Agonda.

Forts and churches:

Goa is also home to many historic forts and churches, dating back to the Portuguese colonial period. Some of the most famous forts include Fort Aguada, Fort Reis Magos, and Fort Tiracol. Some of the most famous churches include the Church of Bom Jesus, the Church of Sé, and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi.

Wildlife sanctuary:

Goa is also home to many wildlife sanctuaries including Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary and Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary. These reserves give visitors the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants and crocodiles.

Hidden gem

Apart from the famous tourist destinations, Goa also has some hidden gems worth exploring. Here are some of my favorites:

Butterfly Beach:

You can only reach this secluded beach by boat or by hiking through the forest. It’s a great place to relax and escape the crowds.

Dudh Sagar Waterfall:

These waterfalls are located on the Goa-Karnataka border and are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. Visitors can take a boat to the falls or hike to the top.

Arpora Night Market on Saturday:

This market is a great place to find souvenirs, clothes, and other items at reasonable prices. This is also a great place to experience local culture and sample delicious street food.

Fountain:

This charming Panaji district is famous for its Portuguese-style houses, cobblestone streets, and cafes. It’s a great place to stroll around and soak up the atmosphere.

Basilica of Bom Jesus:

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for any visitor to Goa. It houses the remains of Saint Francis Xavier, one of the most important figures in Christian history.

Budget

Goa is a relatively affordable destination, especially when compared to other popular tourist destinations in India. Here’s a rough estimate of how much you can expect to spend on food and lodging:

Food:

You can find meals for as little as ₹100 per person at local restaurants. If your budget is tighter, you can prepare your own meals at your motel or guesthouse.

Accommodation:

There are many accommodation options available in Goa, to suit all budgets. You can find hostels for as little as ₹200 per night, motels for around ₹500 per night and hotels for ₹1,000 per night or more.

Activities

There are a number of activities to enjoy in Goa, both free and paid. Here are a few suggestions:

Relax on the beach:

Goa has over 100km of coastline, with beaches to suit every taste. You can spend the whole day swimming, sunbathing or reading a book on the beach.

Visit a fortress or church:

Goa is home to many historic forts and churches dating back to the Portuguese colonial period. You can visit these forts and churches to learn about history and culture.