The best beaches in Goa are cheerful hippies in the North, small children in the South. Where is the best place to relax in Goa? Review of resorts Resort Goa India

In this sunlit place East meets West, Indian culture intertwined with the Portuguese, which left its mark after almost 500 years of dominance. This influence can still be seen everywhere: in the beautiful but slightly dilapidated architecture, in the cuisine that combines Indian spices with the refined taste of Lisbon, in the melancholic strains of fado that sometimes float on the breeze from nowhere. Nowhere in India can one see such casual relaxation and light, soothing silence. This is the beauty of Goa.

According to Hindu mythology, Goa appeared after God Vishnu fired his magic arrow and it hit these sands. Maybe that's why a holiday in Goa is so unearthly.

Swaying palm trees, warm soft sand and sparkling turquoise waters are the three main factors that attract more than 2.5 million tourists to Goa's resorts every year. This exotic piece of India is located on west coast countries. It's warm here all year round: from 20 to 30 degrees, but best months for holidays from November to March.

Beaches of Goa

Why go to Goa? Of course, during the long winter, to get away for at least a week and pamper yourself gentle sun And warm sea. Without a doubt, the main attraction of Goa is its magnificent tropical beaches, stretching for more than 100 kilometers. The coast is divided into southern and northern. The south is luxury hotels with a maximum range of spas and beauty treatments, pristine beaches, peace and quiet of a fashionable resort. The north was chosen by hippies back in the 60s of the 20th century. The dark volcanic sand of this coastline attracts hedonists from all over the world like a magnet. There are inexpensive and very affordable resorts here, always noisy and fun.

In the northern part of the Arabian Sea coast the most popular beaches: Anjuna, Arambol, Morjim. The latter is called “Little Russia” because of the large number of Russian emigrants living in this village. Among south coast beaches stand out: Dona Paula, Agonda, Mobor, Kavelosim, Benaulim.

Some areas, such as Morjim, Agonda and Patnem, are virtually untouched, with sparse lines of footprints in the sand amid a backdrop of fishing boats, sleepy villages and coconut groves. Others, e.g. Baga, Calangute, Candolim And Cavelossim– bright, lively, with beach bars and other amenities of civilization. You can't talk about Goa without mentioning it Palolem beach. Recently, he has acquired downright star status. Hidden, literally in a fabulously beautiful lagoon with light, slightly yellowish sand, washed by an almost neon brightness turquoise sea, he looks like he stepped out of a travel agency poster. These are the beaches one usually dreams of during cold Russian winters. In addition, Palolem is located in a natural bay, surrounded by high headlands on both sides, making the sea almost idyllically calm.

Natural attractions of Goa

The nature in Goa is extremely beautiful. Deserted areas of untouched beach, over which eagles soar, lakes with blooming lilies, foamy waterfalls, entire plantations of fragrant vanilla, picturesque river banks - pastoral pictures. Maybe it's not real paradise, but very similar. 52 km from Panaji (capital of Goa), in the foothills of the Western Ghats, is a wildlife sanctuary Bondla. There is a botanical garden, a zoo and a deer safari park.

The park of living butterflies is very interesting to visit - Butterfly Conservatory. The excursion to the spice plantation will also be remembered for a long time. In addition to the fact that it’s interesting just to see how the familiar ginger, cinnamon, pepper and other aromatic things grow, they also organize entire performances with songs and ethnic dances for tourists.

Going on an excursion to Dudhsagar waterfalls, appears great opportunity swim in clear waters in the middle of the greenery of the jungle or simply admire the marvelous nature and watch the monkeys...

Other sights of Goa

We can safely call Goa a state of churches. During the period of Portuguese rule, the construction of churches was a favorite activity, they were erected mainly in order to spread Christianity. They now retain their old world charm intact and are considered an integral part of Goan culture.

Basilica of Jesus in Old Goa, built in 1605 in Baroque style using wood, stone, gold and granite. It contains the remains of St. Francis Xavier, one of the patron saints of Goa. 2 years after his death, it was noticed that the body did not decompose, and this fact was regarded as a miracle. Every 10 years, the relics of the saint are put on public display in a silver sarcophagus made in the 17th century. Literally 15 minutes walk from the Basilica of Jesus, next to Cathedral, located Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, decorated with painted panels with scenes from the life of the saint.

Built in 1541 to welcome sailors returning home, the snow-white Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception now one of the famous landmarks of Goa and the oldest church in Panaji. The church bell is the second largest in the world.

It is also interesting to see the Hindu temples. 22 km from the capital of Goa there is a temple, dedicated to God Shiva - Shri Mangesh.

Shopping, nightlife

For shopaholics, Goa is also a paradise. A bunch of flea markets, where you can buy everything your heart desires, are scattered along the entire coast. They bring from Goa mainly cashews, spices or some products from their wood.

Ever since hippies made it their mecca back in the 60s, the north coast of Goa has been famous for all kinds of parties. They are so popular that there are fans who come to Goa for this kind of entertainment, starting at midnight and lasting until dawn. Local residents juggle fire, lighting up the night sky, music sounds, everyone dances... It's a real melting pot, mixing all nationalities and cultures and bringing everyone together for crazy late-night parties.

Heart of Goa

Goa has many faces. But his heart seems to be in the village. It’s neat, clean, people are very friendly, and life flows in a relaxed and kind of languid rhythm. Local villages have a unique charm, enchant and make you fall in love forever. Maybe that’s why so many of our compatriots wanted to stay in Goa “permanently” in order to be able to enjoy this exoticism every day.

Come to Goa! Endless beaches, the bright blue of the sea, pineapples, papaya, mangoes, cashews, spice plantations, ancient towns, colorful festivals are always waiting for you!

Goa is a resort state southwest coast India. Goa is more than a hundred kilometers of golden beaches with coconut trees on the shore, these are noisy parties on and comfortable hotels on , these are old Hindu and Portuguese temples, these are the bright colors of the night market and an incredible palette of tastes in a plate of seafood generously seasoned with curry...

Goa is a state of delight, where whole families come “for the winter” or, having simply visited once, return again and again.

Weather

Goa - year-round resort, the air temperature here does not drop below +20 °C. There are three main seasons: summer, winter and monsoon (rainy season). Munsun begins in June and lasts until September, winter (tourist) lasts from late October to early April, summer - from May to September.

The best time to holiday in Goa is considered to be the months from October to March. The air temperature at this time ranges from +21 to +32 °C. At this time there is no stuffiness and sweltering heat, which begins in April.

Hotels

There are many hotels in Goa of various categories - from luxury hotel complexes with a huge territory to small hostels with a single proud star. “Stars” are very arbitrary and very different from European ones. In Goa, as in Thailand, most tourists stay in two- or three-star hotels.

Hotel Features


Expensive hotels with a large territory and a high level of service	A huge range of hotels - from small hostels to luxury boutique hotels. Prices for accommodation below, than in .
Most built on the first line(no closer than 250 m from the beach)	Most of the hotels are built across the road from the beach.
The hotels are located at a distance from the villages, all infrastructure is inside hotels.	Excellent infrastructure– there are restaurants, shops, markets near the hotels.
The hotel beaches are wide (there are fenced areas), the areas are cleaned, there are almost no locals.	The beaches are public, sunbeds and umbrellas are paid, many are local.
Entertainment outside the hotel almost not.	Many about discos, night bars, entertainment for every taste.

Resorts

The state of Goa is divided into three parts - Northern, Central and. They differ greatly from each other in the level of service and range of entertainment. counts respectable resort, where wealthy Europeans vacation; chosen by budget travelers and creative youth; Central Goa combines the characteristics of other parts of the state and is a large transport hub: There is an airport, railway station, port, bus stations here.

North Goa

A large spacious beach, many nightclubs and bars, and an interesting flea market.

The beach is spacious and there are several bars. In the evenings there are parties. Rest will do for noisy companies and active youth. Located farthest from the airport.

Distance from the sea is 1.5 km. Many expensive comfortable hotels. Suitable for tourists with children.

Wide beach with volcanic sand, separated from the village by a river. Relatively quiet resort, suitable for families with children.

The oldest resort in all of Goa. Suitable for any type of holiday. The beach is wide, a river flows nearby.

Popular with creative youth. Known for its late-night parties. There are several beaches with rocky shores.

Most famous beach of all Goa and the most popular resort. Wide range of hotels

Quiet resort with expensive hotels. The beach is sandy, wide, and the Portuguese fort of Aguada stands right on it. Located closest to the airport.

Located between two rivers. Accommodation for tourists is mainly in bungalows.

Calm resort with good infrastructure. Popular with Russian tourists.

A small quiet village with budget hotels and a clean beach.

Small village near the airport. Very clean beaches with white sand, mid-price hotels.

Large resort with spacious beaches and good choice hotels. Quiet place, suitable for relaxation.

A secluded village with a very good level of hotel service. Spacious clean beach suitable for families with children.

A popular resort with good infrastructure and budget hotels.

Popular resort. Suitable for holidays with small children. Located closest to the airport.

A resort with good infrastructure and expensive hotels. Surrounded on three sides by water.

One of the most beautiful beaches in all of Goa. Located farthest from the airport. One of the most expensive resorts.

Small village with beautiful beach. Very quiet resort, suitable for privacy lovers

Attractions

Tourists usually begin their acquaintance with Goa at Dabolim Airport in the city of Vasco da Gama. The city is named after the famous navigator. The Portuguese heritage is well preserved in this Indian state and tourists will always find something to see.

Both have their own set of attractions. Excursion routes are organized to all attractions; they are easily accessible from any corner of Goa.

For example, in Old Goa(city in) beautiful cathedrals, ruins of churches and narrow streets have been preserved. In Panaji, the capital of Goa, you should definitely wander through the old Fontainhas district and see the architectural complex of Largo da Igreja. The Portuguese forts of Aguada and Alorna are also at the top of the list of Goa attractions. The Aguada fortress is located on the outskirts of Candolim beach - after sunbathing and swimming, you can look at this ancient stronghold.

On Wednesdays and Fridays in Goa there are grandiose markets. On Friday you need to go to Mapusa to bargain and buy colorful items of clothing, souvenirs, painted plates, spices, incense and a lot of what your heart desires. There is a flea market in Anjuna - it opens every Wednesday early in the morning and bustles until sunset.

The biggest christian temple in Asia - cathedral St. Catherine's Cathedral (Old Goa). The relics of the Baptist of Asia, Saint Francis, can be seen in the Basilica of Jesus, one of the most famous churches not only in Goa but in the whole of India.

The most popular excursions in Goa are in Savoy spice garden and to the waterfalls. Spice plantations are not only interesting, but also very educational, and also delicious, because every tourist is sure to be fed dishes generously seasoned with curry and aromatic herbs. There are a lot of spice plantations in Goa; Savoy is located 23 km from the state capital of Panaji. Dudhsagar Falls Throws down streams of water from a height of more than 300 meters! It is also called the “milk ocean” - for the white color of the water. The waterfall is located in the eastern part of Goa and can be reached in a few hours by bus.

In the Cotigao Nature Reserve you can wander through a multi-story jungle. The reserve is located 12 km from the beach in.

There are many centers in Goa Ayurveda, where you can create your own healing program with medicinal herbs, massage and drugs based on natural ingredients.

Transport

Most tourists rent bike and travel around the outskirts of the state. To rent, you will need to leave a deposit in foreign currency (from 60 to 200 dollars). A driver's license is rarely required. Traffic in Goa, as throughout India, is chaotic, so we recommend brushing up on your driving skills in advance and being extremely careful on the roads. There are almost no gas stations in Goa; gasoline can be bought secondhand at roadside stalls and shops (sold in ordinary water bottles).

Those who do not risk riding a bike in India use the services Taxi. Taxis are quite expensive, all areas are divided between taxi drivers. Almost no one has meters.

Another option for moving between Goa resorts is bus. This service is very developed in India; buses go to even the most remote villages. Travel there is very cheap (from 5 to 40 rupees), and locals enjoy using it. The fee depends on the distance of the trip. The buses are old, they have no air conditioning, and the windows are protected by bars (from monkeys).

Between Goa resorts direct message no, you need to go with a change at the bus station (in Mapusa, Panaji or Margao). The buses do not have numbers; the route is written in the local language, but conductors and drivers loudly announce the direction at the stops. By the way, there are no stops in the usual sense; the bus stops anywhere on demand. Bus intervals are on average once every 15 minutes.

A trip on an Indian bus is like an attraction - a bright old bus rushes through the jungle to Indian music, the conductor jokes with the passengers, women in bright saris laugh...

Goa bus stations

Souvenirs

Most of the souvenirs that tourists bring from their trips to Goa are ethnic. People often buy saris (national Indian women's clothing) and bloomers (loose pants), textiles (bed linen, bedspreads, towels), jewelry with gems, incense sticks, and henna. A good souvenir would be spices, toothpaste with red pepper, and natural cosmetics from the Hymalaya brand. Sandalwood and ebony deity figurines start at $3.

Popular dishes include lamb stewed in milk with curry, meatballs in spicy yogurt, and chicken in orange sauce with herbs. famous for its abundance of vegetarian dishes, such as rice cakes and curried lentil dumplings (dosa and samba). Vegetables are served with curry and rice.

Seafood and fish are incredibly popular in Goa. The fish is fried over a fire, baked in dough, stewed in yogurt with curry... Try mailai - shrimp with the same curry and coconut. Dhai - curdled milk with spices - is a great refreshing drink in the heat. Alcohol is sold freely in Goa; local moonshine called “feni” is made here - this is fermented coconut and cashew juice.

Good to know

All tourists arrive at Dabolim Airport. The flight from Moscow takes approximately 7.5 hours.
Goa time is 2.5 hours ahead of Moscow.
The Indian dialect Konkani, Portuguese and English are spoken in Goa.
Sockets in Goa are no different from Russian ones.
The currency in Goa, as elsewhere in India, is the rupee. There are 100 paise in one rupee. In January 2020, 1 rupee is equal to 87 Russian kopecks.
From India to Russia, no more than 3 liters of alcohol per person over 18 years of age can be exported duty-free, up to 5 liters - with payment of a duty.
Wash vegetables and fruits purchased at markets thoroughly. Drink only bottled water.

The resorts of South Goa are not at all a bustling India, as in the northern part of Goa, because here you will not see crowds of people on the beach, young people having fun. There is light, almost velvety sand here, which is constantly cleaned. Rest on local beaches will give you a mix of peace and exoticism at the same time. So, which beaches in Goa are you definitely worth visiting? Read more about this.

How to get there

Planes usually arrive at an airport called Dabolim. From here to the place where the popular resorts of South Goa are located, the best way to go is to take a taxi. You can order transport at the airport counter, where you can find out the prices for it.

Of course, you can also go to public transport. First you need to get from Dabolim to locality Vasco da Gama. This can be done using an autorickshaw. Next from Vasco da Gama they travel by bus to the capital city in the district called Panaji. Then tourists have to travel by intercity flights to the Margao junction, and then from this point you can go by autorickshaw to the resort that you need.

Transport in South Goa

In the southern part of the region, people travel more by bicycles rather than motorbikes, as in the north. These places are flatter, tourists love to enjoy the view of palm trees on the way to the beach.

If you want to experience the Indian flavor even better, you have the opportunity to interact with the people of Goa using the bus service.

Is it possible to rent a car?

Resorts in South Goa (descriptions of which you will find below) allow you to rent both motorcycles, bicycles and cars. But if you expect to see polite drivers on Indian roads, then the local car culture will definitely disappoint you. It is customary here to honk loudly and cut off, so driving in this region can be a bit difficult for tourists. You can rent a vehicle with a professional driver, but the cost is quite high. For that kind of money you can ride a taxi all day long.

Beaches and popular resorts

If we talk about specific places, the resorts of South Goa (the list is given below) include many tourist centers. We will talk about them further.

Dona Paula (Goa) is a beach that couples in love especially like to come to. According to local legend, it was named so in honor of the daughter of the vice-governor, who jumped into the sea from one of the rocks out of grief. She did this because she could not stand the separation from her beloved, whom she was not allowed to see, because he was an ordinary fisherman. On this beach there is a chic sports club where you can exercise aquatic species sports

Benaulim (Goa) has calm beaches, close to which you can stay in inexpensive hotels. However, this is a fairly expensive resort for the average tourist. This place is located near the town of Kolva. Goa is perfect for a relaxing holiday. Therefore, here everyone will find something to their liking. "Benaulim" (Goa) is located between the Sal River and the coast of the Arabian Sea.

Betul is considered to be the most inaccessible beach. This is a place where tourists get to by boat, but this is where you can try the most delicious mussels in the area.

Colva (Goa) is one of the main tourist centers throughout South Goa, but it is here that you can find inexpensive hotel and dine at affordable establishments where travelers enjoy watching entertainment shows in the evenings.

Truly luxurious hotels are located on a strip of coastline that is considered Palopem Beach. This is one of the best and most famous places in the world. This beach is perfect for a comfortable, truly heavenly holiday.

The long spit of sand called Mobor is surrounded by water, so many tourists come to see the beautiful islands and dunes. Don't be upset if you see a sign on one of the beaches stating that it is private property. All land off the coast in India is state, municipal property. Therefore, you can relax peacefully on the beach.

Souvenirs from Goa

In North Goa you can buy many souvenirs that will remind you on cold autumn evenings of the atmosphere of warm and mysterious India. Local flavor is a staple commodity in this region. Many tourists purchase national costumes (sari and traditional pants), home-made fabrics, and bedspreads embroidered with decorative elements. Also popular here are bags made of genuine leather, cosmetics of natural origin, and aromatic products. In addition, in local shops, sellers offer inexpensive metal jewelry (mostly bronze and silver).

Local kitchen

The local resorts are mainly popular for their fish delicacies and seafood. Here you can try fresh dishes from mussels, octopus, squid, and shrimp prepared according to special recipes; feast on oysters, lobsters, etc. As for fish, in Goa you can choose from tuna, shark, lambret, etc. Typically, seafood is fried, baked and served in combination with vegetables. Sauce also comes in handy.

If you are wondering what you can eat in Goa, then on the beaches local residents they sell flatbreads stuffed with vegetables, chicken and fruits.

What to do and see in South Goa?

The main attraction of the region is Old Goa. Visit ancient capital included in the list of must-do activities for tourists. In the historical center of the city there are many architectural monuments. Travelers especially like the Church of St. Catherine, visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, etc.

If you love scuba diving, you'll love the island of Bath, where you can see reef creatures in the clear waters.

Those who prefer outdoor recreation will be able to enjoy excursion trip to Dudhsagar. This high waterfall, and near it there is a spice plantation, which tourists also willingly visit.

In addition, travelers like to go to a protected area called Kotigar. Rare species of Indian birds and animals live here under centuries-old trees. Tourists expect to see wild cats, but they are not frequent visitors during the day. However, don’t despair, because you can see monkeys or wild boar.

Not far from the site where the Bogmalo beach is located, there is a museum complex that tells visitors about military aviation. There are models and layouts here various transport, as well as samples of Indian pilots’ uniforms during the war.

For lovers of architectural and historical monuments you'll like it the most ancient temple in the region. Mahadeva is dedicated to the great Shiva, and it was carved from granite around the 13th century. Also in South Goa there is the Museum of Crosses, where you can look at ancient crucifixes and crosses, represented by a huge collection.

Weather

What time of year is best to come here for a holiday? What is the difference climatic conditions in the north of the region and in its southern part? In fact, the weather is almost always the same. This may be hard to believe, but natural conditions North and South Goa are almost always identical.

How long does it last holiday season? It starts in October and ends in May. It was then in South Goa Russian and European holidaymakers come. The daytime temperature here rarely drops below thirty degrees Celsius, and the water warms up to twenty-six at any time of the year.

The most popular period among vacationers is considered to be the period that begins in November and ends in February. But even then the humidity level is approximately seventy percent. Do not come here in summer and early September, because at this time it rains in South Goa, and you are unlikely to be able to soak up the beach or explore the city's attractions.

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According to legend, the first European to set foot on the soil of Goa - the Portuguese Afonso Albuquerque - wanted to exclaim “Wow!”, but choked on port wine - he was so amazed by the view. The colonialists immediately made Old Goa the capital of Portuguese India, recognizing that the buildings they discovered were superior in beauty to all the temples of the previously subjugated East. By that time, the history of India had already spanned more than 4 thousand years. The small Indian state was under the yoke of Europeans for more than 400 years, until the mid-20th century, but it did not lose its identity, and it is difficult now to imagine a freer land.

People go to Goa mainly for beach holidays and Ayurveda - all diseases " big city“Here local massage therapists and other healers heal very quickly. The excursion program of Goa is not rich; local attractions include the Dudhsagar waterfall, the village of Hampi with a bunch of ancient ruins, and active rest Boat trips and fishing are popular.

Hotels and guesthouses located in South Goa are considered expensive, and not only by Indian standards. They are popular among wealthy Europeans and wealthy Indians. The complete opposite is North Goa, relatively inexpensive, noisy and democratic - in the 60s. This place was chosen by hippies and stayed there. Today in numerous villages North Goa Mostly partygoers from America and Europe settle here, thanks to whom these regions have become famous throughout the world.

How to get to Goa

Goa became a tourist destination not so long ago, about 50 years ago, when hippies began to arrive on the coast along circuitous routes - by land and sea. In the mid-1960s. Dabolim Airport, the state's only air hub, opened its doors to international travelers. Since then, the Dabolim terminal annually receives about 200 thousand tourists from Europe and Russia. Travel time from Moscow is 7-9 hours, ticket prices start from 325 USD round trip.

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By train or bus

Some tourists travel to Goa by train. To do this, you need to fly to Mumbai and take a train to Goa there. This option is attractive because of its low cost - tickets to Mumbai are usually significantly cheaper than directly to Dabolim, even taking into account the cost of a train ticket. The train takes 9-13 hours, before buying a ticket, check if there is a stop at the station you need. There are also trains from Delhi to Goa, but you will have to spend about 30 hours on the road, and the savings are quite dubious.

Resorts of South Goa

Dona Paula, Bogmalo, Colva, Benaulim, Palolem, Cavelossim, Mobor, Majorda.

What to try

Some tourists are cautious about Indian food, fearing the abundance of spices. However, Goan cuisine is as Europeanized as possible and least spicy compared to the rest of the country, so you can safely try it. However, while vacationing in Goa, it is really worth taking some precautions: drink water only from a bottle and do not buy food from street vendors.

Seafood is a kind of business card local cuisine. Crabs, shrimp, lobsters, clams, octopus, sharks, squid, lobsters, etc. Grilled or oven-baked, in coconut milk or semolina crust - the fish menu of even a small restaurant is usually quite varied. But people here don’t like to cook meat, especially beef, and in some places they don’t even know how to cook it, since the cow is a sacred animal for Hindus.

Pay attention to the Indian version of pilaf - “biryani”. The dish is prepared from rice and meat, chicken or seafood and is quite hot in taste due to the abundance of spices. When placing an order, do not forget to emphasize “note of spice.”

Another interesting local dish is “siesler”: a side dish and meat (or fish) are fried on foil or a frying pan and placed on cabbage leaves. The whole secret of the original taste is in the signature sauce, which each chef has his own.

Flatbreads in Goa are prepared so masterfully that they are often served as a main dish. Paratha flatbreads are baked with ghee and sour cream, and then served with spicy vegetables and spices. Garlic or cheese naan (other flatbreads), in turn, are inimitable when paired with tomato soup.

Many Indians adhere to the laws of Ayurveda - the “science of life”, according to which it is enough just to eat right to stay young and healthy for a long time.

Paneer tikka, a dish of traditional cheese coated in spices and grilled on the grill, is also popular among tourists. Paneer can be prepared in dozens of other ways; this cheese is healthy and very popular in India.

Bean or lentil soup “dal” is also valued by tourists for its aroma and unique taste. This vegetarian dish, flavored with herbs and spices, is a daily food for most Hindus.

Most Indians are vegetarians; in some restaurants and cafes (especially for local ones) there are no meat dishes at all, and local chefs have no equal in the art of cooking vegetables. Try sabji, a mixed vegetable flavored with spices.

Local desserts may seem too sweet, but they are definitely worth a try. Burfi, a milk fudge that may contain berries, coconut, nuts, saffron, rose water and other ingredients, has a very delicate taste.

Cafes and restaurants in Goa

There are cafes and restaurants at every turn in Goa - they love and know how to cook delicious food here. Shekis are especially popular among tourists - tiny shacks that line the beaches in tourist season. These are local fast food restaurants - there is not much choice of dishes, but everything is cheap and tasty.

Shek food can be ordered directly to the beach lounger, and the prices in such establishments are very affordable - soup costs about 120-150 INR, shrimp - from 400 INR, cooked shark will cost 700-800 INR. For drinks - juices and smoothies (very tasty, by the way) - you will pay about 100-120 INR. It may seem that cooking conditions in Shek are quite unsanitary, but complaints about stomach problems are rare here. Each owner of the outlet values his reputation, and rumors about stale shrimp and dirty plates spread along the coast very quickly.

Restaurants in Goa delight with variety: they serve literally everything - from Indian curries to bloody schnitzels. However, it is better to give preference to local cuisine; local chefs do it best, although there are also quite a lot of Italians with pizzerias here.

The average bill in a regular Goan restaurant is 1200-1600 INR; a dinner with alcohol for two will cost from 2000 INR.

Best photos of Goa

Entertainment and attractions

Old Goa

The city of Old Goa, built by the Portuguese colonialists in the early 16th century, is one of the most visited places in the state. First of all, it is famous for its architecture - over the centuries, Europeans built majestic cathedrals here, which are now included in the List world heritage UNESCO.

Particular attention of tourists and pilgrims is attracted by St. Catherine's Cathedral - the largest Catholic church in India and one of the largest in Asia. Here is the chapel of the Miraculous “growing” Cross, which was carved by a local shepherd in the 17th century. According to legend, the Savior appeared to the shepherd on this crucifix, after which the monks decided to erect a chapel around the cross. And it miraculously increased during construction to the size of the Calvary cross. They say the relic grows to this day, heals the sick and grants wishes.

The complex of St. Catherine's Cathedral includes Archaeological Museum Goa, it is located in the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Each of the museum's galleries is dedicated to a different historical period of the state. The museum exhibits both artifacts from prehistoric times, as well as objects from the Middle Ages and modern times.

The Basilica of the Merciful Jesus (Bon Jesus) in Old Goa is also a center of Catholic pilgrimage, as the relics of the Spanish missionary Francis Xavier are kept here. During the three years he spent in southern India, the preacher built about 40 temples, and after his death he was canonized and received the status of patron of Goa.

The current Church of St. Cajetan is considered one of the most beautiful and memorable temples of Old Goa. The building has been restored, so the appearance of the temple is truly impressive. In it you will see a wooden platform covering an old well. According to some historians, this well is the only thing that remains of an ancient Hindu temple that once existed on this site.

Fortress structures

As you know, Goa was under the influence of European expansion for a long time; Portugal recognized Indian sovereignty over the state only at the end of the last century. In an effort to strengthen their positions, the colonialists built many forts in Goa. Today these are dilapidated fortress walls, but the views offered to tourists are exciting. It is strange to see silent military cities and cannons entangled in vines next to serene beaches.

The impregnable Aguada Fortress, located on the outskirts of Candolim Beach, is considered one of the best preserved fortifications in Goa. The fort was built in the early 17th century and served as a bastion against the Germans and British. The most significant building in the fortress is an impressively sized lighthouse, which is no longer operational today.

Chapora Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1612; it has been in ruins since the late 19th century. You can climb to the fortress, which stands on a hill, from Vagator beach. Essentially, these are just the remains of walls - sand and stones, but the fortifications offer stunning views of the ocean. There is a tradition among tourists to spend the last evening of their stay in Goa here.

Korjum Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1705, is located a few kilometers from the Aldona settlement. It is in good condition - the loopholes are best preserved, a sign with a coat of arms is visible above the main entrance, and very close by is the Catholic altar, to which flowers and candles are still carried. Guides tell tourists about a girl named Ursula Lancastre, who wanted to serve at the fort so much that she dressed up as a man. After exposure, she managed to remain unpunished and even remained in the fortress, marrying the captain.

One of the most beautiful fortresses, Yashwantgad (Redi Fort) is located on the border of the states of Goa and Maharashtra, not far from Paradise Beach. The fort resembles an enchanted castle - powerful banyan trees and fancy flowers emerge from the loopholes, and the fortifications are permeated with vines. Pristine beauty nearby beach And absolute silence only strengthen general impression an old fairy tale.

Reserves

The biggest protected area Goa - "Bhagwan Mahavir". The sanctuary occupies an area of 240 km² on the border with the state of Karnataka on the slopes of the Western Ghats. "Bhagwan Mahavir" is inhabited by elephants, tigers, bears, leopards, porcupines, and great amount birds, reptiles and insects. On its territory are located famous waterfall Dudhsagar and Mahadeva Temple, built in the 13th century. This is the oldest surviving temple in the state; in February-March, Mahashivratri, the “great night of Shiva,” is celebrated here on a grand scale. Those who do not sleep during the holiday are promised material prosperity and a place in heaven in the sacred books.

The small but very popular Bandla Wildlife Sanctuary can be reached by taking a bus from Panaji and Margao. Its area is only 8 square meters. km, but there is something to see there. During your walk you will meet elephants, peacocks, wild boars and huge squirrels, but dangerous predators - leopards and panthers - live in fenced areas. To see them, you need to be patient.

In the Cotigao Nature Reserve, 12 km from Palolem, there are no dangerous cats, but colorful tropical birds and insects live. The area of 86 km² has good trails and two observation towers. Due to the proximity of rivers, the vegetation here is so lush that sunlight has difficulty penetrating through the thickets where hyenas, porcupines and bears roam.

Not far from the city of Valpoi there is a large reserve "Mhadei Wildlife" - the residence of Bengal tigers, it is also known as the "tiger corridor". This predator is considered the national animal of India. But finding it in its natural habitat is not so easy; more often than not, their appearance in Mhadei is recorded by cameras, not by people. From time to time, local authorities question the permanent residence of tigers in the reserve.

The Salima Ali Bird Sanctuary, located near Panaji on Chorao Island, is home to about four hundred species of birds. The Kingfisher Kingfisher is often found here. This little bird is a unique symbol of Goa; it even became the logo of a popular Indian beer. This fact misleads tourists; some are even sure that this bird bears the name of beer, and not vice versa.

Storks, ducks and herons also rest in the swamps of the reserve. Visitors can meet otters, jackals, crocodiles and even flying foxes.

On the Mhadei River there is one of the most beautiful sights of Goa - the Dudhsagar waterfall, whose waters fall from a height of 310 m.

The waterfall is most active during the rainy season, but getting there during this period is almost impossible.

India remains the world leader in spice production. Chili, cardamom, saffron, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, mustard, turmeric, asafoetida, etc. are grown here. On numerous plantations you can not only see how all these spices grow, but also be treated to a well-seasoned lunch, as well as receive individual advice Ayurvedic doctor about the benefits of specific herbs.

10 things to do in Goa

Go to an Ayurvedic doctor and get cured of any disease without taking pills.
Do yoga on the beach and realize that chakras are not a myth.
Find the head of Shiva on Vagator beach, take a photo with it and show off to the less fortunate.
Go to a Vedic astrologer and finally understand your purpose.
Get a temporary henna tattoo - mehendi - just before departure to surprise your family with a fancy pattern.
Go to the market in Arpora, learn how to bargain and buy a bunch of clothes for three times cheaper.
Order grilled shark for dinner at a ridiculous price, and then try all the Goan seafood.
Visit an elephant show, watch them play football, climb on one of them and let yourself be doused with water from their trunk.
Dance until the morning at a trance party.
Pet the local cow, if it’s not scary, and thus receive absolution.

Trans parties

Goa is the birthplace of the trance music genre of the same name (it is for the sake of mega-parties that crowds of people flock here from all over globe), and a blessed place where they first threaten you with life imprisonment for marijuana, and then they shake your finger at you and let you go for ten bucks.

There are official places where you can safely come after midnight and dance wildly until the morning (for example, Hill Top, where admission is free for “whites”). And there are mysterious semi-legal “parties” about which until the last moment nothing is known: where exactly they will take place and whether they will take place at all. It all depends on whether the organizers are able to reach an agreement with local authorities. But literally a quarter of an hour after receiving permission, any local child will know the exact place and time of the disco, not to mention taxi drivers and sari sellers.

Popular excursions in Goa

The following excursions are especially popular among tourists: “The Gold of Vasco da Gama”, a cruise on the “pirate” schooner “Visiting the Banderlogs”, an excursion to Mumbai, a two-day jeep excursion to the abandoned city of Hampi and “Experience Goa!” - an excursion for respectable white tourists through the crazy night Goa of hippies and ravers.

The state's most famous natural attraction, Dudhsagar Falls, is also in demand, as is the Spices and Crocodiles tour to the Savoy Spice Garden and a boat ride along the Kumbarhua Canal in search of these cute animals. Extreme lovers will enjoy the excursion “The Jungle Book - 1” (one-day excursion into the mountain jungle, rafting on the river on bamboo rafts, lunch, elephant rides), as well as “The Jungle Book - 2” (a two-day excursion combining the program “The Jungle Book - 1” with a walk to a waterfall, yoga lessons and accommodation in clay huts).

Goa for children

Warm sea and sandy beaches make Goa an excellent place for families with children, the main thing is to choose a clean area with developed infrastructure. In this regard, the resorts of the southern coast can be called more suitable - the northern states are much more crowded than in the south.

However, sun, sea and sand are not the guarantee of an interesting holiday. Goa has plenty of entertainment for children, including very young ones. Little ones will love a visit to the Butterfly Park at Pond. A great attraction for older kids is a walk to the dolphin habitats. School-age children will also be delighted by the local nature reserves, where rare animals and strange birds can be found. And a trip to an ancient dilapidated fortress, such as Fort Aguada, can be a real adventure for any “Jack Sparrow”.

Holidays in Goa are not only about the warm sea, bright scorching sun, luxurious beaches and colorful tropics. Goa embodies the best features of Indian and European culture. Life here moves slowly. You will be able to feel relaxation and serenity. This is an ideal place for those who need a complete and comfortable rest. For everyone who has been to Goa, this place is something personal and special. After all, there is everything you need here: from calm, cozy deserted beaches to noisy entertainment areas. Organized in Goa big number interesting and eventful excursions that will tell you a lot of new things about the culture and life of the country.

Holidays here are possible throughout the year due to the mild climate. But from June to September it rains, brought by tropical monsoons. In both winter and summer, temperatures vary from +23°C to +33°C.

Those who gravitate towards an active “party” holiday should choose the northern regions of the island, in central rest belongs to the mixed type - ideal for those who do not know what exactly they want from their upcoming vacation. In the southern part, life is more solid and measured; there are a large number of luxury hotels and well-maintained comfortable beaches. Everything here personifies comfort and sophistication.

The length of Goa's beaches exceeds 100 kilometers. There are centers for water sports on the coast. Diving will give you unusual sensations and impressions. This is an opportunity to see real sharks, rays, sea turtles, exotic fish, stroll through underwater coral cities. In addition to a lush tan, beaches and sea, vacationers on the island engage in self-improvement, rejuvenation and weight loss. For this purpose, Ayurveda centers have been created, where qualified specialists will give a lot of useful tips about the basics of a healthy lifestyle, talk about proper nutrition, and teach you how to relieve stress and tension. All dishes served in cafes and restaurants are prepared from natural products.

Another type of recreation is excursion holiday. Typically, tourists visit Panaji and enjoy the scenic view of the mysterious Dudhsagara Falls with a lake containing crystal clear water. They go to see spice plantations, ride elephants, hunt crocodiles in the mangroves of Kumbarhua and Mandovi. Goa, like other regions of India, has a rich cultural heritage, a large number of architectural monuments.

Markets are regularly held on the island, where you can buy souvenirs for friends and family and do cheap shopping. Prices here are much lower than those set by street vendors. Remember that exporting spices, tea and local port wine abroad is prohibited. Many come here to enjoy the culinary delights of local cuisine. Perhaps the main distinguishing feature is the abundance of spices. IN local restaurants You can order a huge freshly caught fish, which will be cooked before your eyes. Wash it down with local fenni alcohol and you will get an indescribable sensation. It is impossible to accurately indicate prices for holidays in Goa. They may vary depending on the area of the island, hotel, resort and additional services, which you will resort to during your trip.

The quality of your holiday depends on its organization. Without knowledge of the matter, you can lose a lot of effort, money and time and not get what the island could give you. Therefore, it is very important that professionals deal with the formation of the route. Contact the specialists of our company. We will arrange for you best vacation in Goa.

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