About Goa:
Goa is a tropical paradise nestled on the western coast of India, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and rich cultural history. This enchanting destination offers a unique blend of sun, sand, spirituality, and heritage, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking diverse experiences.
Natural Splendor: Goa boasts beaches stretching along the Arabian Sea, each with its own character. From the vibrant shores of Baga to the serene sands of Palolem, you'll find the perfect spot to soak up the sun or enjoy water sports.
Cultural Heritage: Goa's historical significance is evident in its well-preserved architecture and landmarks. Explore its colonial past with visits to Old Goa, where you'll find magnificent churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Sé Cathedral. The Latin Quarter of Fontainhas is a delightful stroll through winding streets lined with colorful Portuguese-style houses.
Spirituality and Festivals: Goa is a melting pot of cultures and religions, making it a hub for spirituality. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of temples like Shri Manguesh or seek solace in the beautiful churches and chapels. Don't miss the vibrant festivals like Carnival and Shigmo, which showcase the state's rich cultural diversity.
Cuisine Delights: Indulge in Goa's delectable cuisine, influenced by its history and coastal location. Savor seafood delicacies, spicy vindaloos, and traditional sweets like bebinca. Try the feni, a unique cashew-based liquor, to complete your culinary adventure.
Adventure and Wildlife: Beyond its cultural treasures, Goa offers adventure seekers opportunities for trekking in the Western Ghats, thrilling water sports in its pristine rivers and backwaters, and a chance to encounter wildlife at the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.
Beach Shacks and Nightlife: Goa's beachfront shacks offer a relaxed atmosphere to savor fresh seafood while enjoying live music and stunning sunsets. As night falls, Goa's vibrant nightlife comes alive with beach parties, clubs, and bars.
Goa is a destination that captivates travelers with its stunning beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Whether you're looking for relaxation on its golden beaches, spiritual enlightenment, or an adventure-packed getaway, Goa has something to offer every type of traveler. Come and explore this coastal gem, and you'll create memories that last a lifetime with our Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Service.
Temples
Mangeshi Temple
One of the oldest and most-visited temples of Goa, Mangeshi Temple is dedicated to Lord Mangesh, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The presiding deity is worshipped in the form of a shiva lingam which was brought to Goa by the Saraswat Brahmins. In 1560, the Christianisation of Salsette Taluka led to the transfer of the deity to the present-day Priol in Atrunja Talika. The key highlight of the temple is the seven-storey deepstambha which is a sight to behold when lit with earthen lamps at night.
Location: Priol, Ponda, North Goa
Mahadeva Temple
Nestled in the jungles of Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahadev Temple is the oldest Hindu temple of Goa. The temple is believed to have been constructed in Jain architectural style during the 12th century. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the entire temple is built from the finest basalt stones with intricate carvings on the wall. The structure has survived the destruction of Hindu temples by the Mughals and Portuguese because of its hidden location. One of the most scenic temples in Goa, it is believed that a large black cobra resides inside the main sanctum of the temple at night.
Location: Sanguem, Surla, Goa
Brahma Temple
Brahma Karmali Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe as per Hindu mythology. Many people do not know of its existence as Pushkar is known to house the only Brahma Temple in the world. A simply designed architecture, the main sanctum of the temple houses an intricately carved idol of Lord Brahma along with Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Dating back to the 12th century, this temple was an important centre of freedom struggle where Mr P.P. Shirodkar of the National Congress took many sessions.
Location: Valpoi, Satari District, Goa
Mahalasa Temple
Earning a place in the list of unique temples of India, Mahalasa Narayani Temple is a must-visit religious place in Goa. Dedicated to Mahalasa or Mohini, a female incarnation of Lord Vishnu, this temple is unique as it worships Lord Vishnu both in male and female form. The temple houses a large brass oil lamp and a large brass bell which was used as a tool to testify someone’s crime. According to the local lores, whoever lied while the bell was being rung died within three days. The temple’s origin is dated back to the 17th century.
Location: Mardol, Ponda Taluka, Goa
Mahalaxmi Temple
As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, the Indian goddess of wealth and strength. Originally, the main idol was made of black granite stone which was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1557 to eradicate Hinduism from Goa. The present-day idol is made from Panchloha which was carried by two non-brahmins, Sapta and Phato in 1557 itself. The key highlight of the temple is the 24 wooden panels that display scenes from the Bhagwat Gita. Mahalaxmi Temple is the most-visited Hindu temple of Goa.
Location: Yashwant Nagar, Bandivade, North Goa
Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple
Known for its magnificent architecture, Saptakoteshwar Temple is one of the most beautiful temples of Goa. The temple’s dome is made in the Mughal style while the deepstambha is unlike any other in the temples of Goa. One can reach the temple by taking a ferry ride from the island of Divar. The origin of the temple dates back to the 12th century. According to the legend, seven sages prayed to Lord Shiva for seven crore years after which Lord Shiva agreed to their request of staying at the place in the form of a lingam.
Location: Narve, Bicholim, South Goa
Narayan Temple
Shri Lakshmi Narayan Temple is an 18th century shrine dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu. The idol had been relocated from Salcete in the late 16th century when Goa was captured by the Portuguese. The beautiful temple complex has wooden carvings, paintings, a sacred water tank and a musician's gallery. The temple is thronged with devotees on the occasion of Shukla Chaturdashi every year when a procession is held for the deities.
Location: Mapusa, North Goa 403507
Shri Narsi Damodar Temple / Shri Damodara Samsthaana
This temple is among the most famous and richest temple in Goa and is famous for housing an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the deity of Lord Damodar. This place will certainly take you back to ancient times and help you unwind and introspect your inner self. The walls and pillars of the temple have beautiful carvings as well as inscriptions from The Bhagavad Gita. Some pillars depict scenes from the Mahabharata as well as paintings of the other Hindu Gods
Location: Zambaulim, South Goa
Churches
Basilica of Bom Jesus
By far, the most famous church in Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus is a marvel of baroque architecture. This 16th-century church is a UNESCO Heritage site and contains the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, the famous Jesuit saint. The church is dedicated to Infant Jesus and has several paintings, marble gilded altars, marble flooring inlaid with precious stones.
Location: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa 403402
Built: 1605
Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
Situated in Panaji, this church is among the oldest church in Goa. It has an elegant outer structure, with a double flight of symmetrical stairs. A fine example of Baroque architecture, this church also has the second largest bell in Goa.Thousands gather here on the day of the feast that falls on 8th December, when the whole church is decorated with colourful lights and large fairs are held to celebrate the occasion.
Location: Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403521
Built: 1609
Se Cathedral
Se Cathedral is among the largest of all churches in Goa, and also the most beautiful. It has a magnificent architecture and has great religious importance. The church was built to glorify the Portuguese rule over India. The church is dedicated to St. Catherine and has the Great Golden Bell. The church has received the ‘Golden Rose’ from the Pope, as a mark of reverence.
Location: Velha, Goa 403402
Built: 1640
Church of Our Lady of the Mount
The Portuguese general, Afonso de Albuquerque, ordered the construction of this church in the year 1510. It is among the oldest chapels in Goa and is popular for its Monte Music Festival, a four-day celebration of Indian and Western Music performances by reputed and up-coming musicians.The church is built on a hill and gives stunning views of Mandovi River and Divar Island, located nearby.
Location: Ella, Goa 403110
Built: 1510
Church of St. Cajetan
Another famous church of North Goa is the Church of St. Cajetan. Very close to Se Cathedral, this church is a most beautiful monument, said to be modelled in the lines of St. Peter’s Basilica, in the Vatican City.The church is an impressive remnant of the Portuguese reign over Goa. Its magnificent Corinthian architecture and impressive baroque interiors have made this among the most visited churches in Goa.
Location: Velha Goa, Goa 403402
Built: 1661
Mae De Deus Church
This church is among the best churches to see in North Goa. It has a breathtaking gothic architecture and has ornate interiors.Its magnificent structure, with numerous spires, gilded altars and ornate interiors reminds us of a medieval castle and its white exterior dazzles in daylight. In the evenings though, the church is illuminated with lighting, making it a marvellous sight to behold.
Location: Chogm Rd, Saligao, Goa, 403511
Built: 1873
Church of St Francis of Assisi
The unique blend of Tuscan, Baroque and Corinthian architecture is what makes this church unique in structure and also one of the most famous churches in Goa. Its artistically gilded altars, with inlay of precious stones, and ornate interiors, making it among the most spectacular churches.Another unique thing about this church is that it has its own museum displaying paintings, sculptures, and artefacts.
Location: Off National Highway 4, Velha Goa, Goa 403110
Built: 1661
St. Diogo’s Church
Among the most magnificent of churches in North Goa, St. Diogo’s Church is built in Roman style architecture. The church has 3 bells and 3 entrances. The annual feast held in the church is a festive occasion which is enjoyed with great religious fervour.
Location: Guirim, Goa 403507
Built: 1604
Santa Cruz Church
Also called as Holy Cross Church, this church is a spectacular example of the Neo-Roman architectural style. It was built on the recommendation of the King of Portugal to encourage people to accept Christianity.
Location: Santa Cruz, Goa 403005
Built: 1547
Chapel of St. Catherine
Although not as spectacular as the other churches in Goa, this church has a huge historical significance. This elegant church was built by the Portuguese general, Afonso de Albuquerque to celebrate the victorious march into the city.Even today, this fact is quite evident from the inscribed stone, which tells that this is the exact spot where the Portuguese general set foot. The chapel is simple in architecture and has graceful interiors.
Location: North Goa, Goa 403110
Built: 1510
Church of the Cross of Miracles
The church is another historical monument in North Goa. It is famous for its Miraculous Cross, which is said to have supernatural healing properties. It’s a church with a history of its own. It is visited by people of all religions on the day of the feast when thousands of devotees throng the church to seek the blessings of the Holy Mother.
Location: Bainguinim, Goa 403110
Built: 1619
Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca
Situated at the confluence of Mandovi and Mapusa rivers, this church is a scenic beauty and a visual treat. The magnificent architecture, stained glass windows, high vaulted ceiling makes it among the most beautiful churches in North Goa. The church is named after a Spanish saint, Saint Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca, who is believed to have saved Portuguese from a dangerous situation on their voyage to India.
Location: Betim, Bardez.
Built: 1626
Clara’s Church
Located in the midst of lush greenery, this church is a scenic attraction in North Goa. Its white exteriors and beautiful architecture makes a surreal sight when visited in the daytime. The church was attacked several times and destroyed by the Marathas. But each time, it was rebuilt anew. The church is known for its healing sessions, which is attended by huge crowds.
Location: Assonora, Goa 403503
Built: 1768
Chapel of Saint Sebastian
This chapel is dedicated to St. Sebastian, who once healed many people of diseases and plagues. Even now, the chapel’s crucifix is believed to be magical and punish wrongdoers and troublemakers, and bring justice to good people.
Location: Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403001
Built: 1818
St. Elizabeth’s Church
This church in North Goa has a striking Mannerist architectural style, with impressive rococo features. It was constructed by the Franciscan friars in 1618. Though a storm destroyed it in 1708, it was rebuilt on a much larger scale. This elegant church has a magnificent statue of Jesus Christ on the front of the church.
Location: Aldona, Balbot, Ucassaim, Goa 403508
Built: 1618
Church of Lady of Rosary
This church is the oldest church in North Goa and has an immense historical significance. This church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is believed to be built by Afonso de Albuquerque as a gratitude for his victory over armies of the Deccan Sultanate of Bijapur. It is also here that St. Francis Xavier gave his first sermon when he arrived in Goa. The church looks more like a fortress, with its rounded towers and early Portuguese architecture.
Location: Bainguinim, Goa 403110
Built: 1510
Church of St. Anne
This church is a marvellous monument, in the North of Goa. It is a unique specimen of Indian Baroque architectural style and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located on the banks of Siridao River, this church has a white-washed exterior and its interiors have a cylindrical roof.
Location: Talaulim, Goa 403110
Built: 1695
St Alex Church
This massive church has a unique architectural style. The church dome and its towers are the special attractions of this church. The interiors and the gilded altars are ornate in design and marvellous to look.It is one of the oldest churches in Goa. It was built on the site of Ravalnath, an ancient Hindu Temple, whose ruins can still be seen around the church. Many feasts like are held in the church.
Location: Curtorim, Goa 403709
Built: 1741
St. Andrew’s Church
Among the most famous churches in South Goa, St. Andrew’s Church will impress you with its elegant Neo-gothic architecture. Situated in the historical town of Vasco da Gama, this church is named after St. Andrew, the patron saint of fishermen. The church runs a school on its premises.
Location: Vaddem, New Vaddem, Vasco da Gama, Goa 403802
Built: 1570
Three Kings Chapel
This church is among the most famous churches in South Goa. Located on a hill, this church gives spectacular scenic views of the coastline and the lush greenery. You are also treated to view stunning views of sunrise and sunset. The chapel has a most interesting history behind it. Many believe it is haunted by the ghost of three kings who once ruled this land. It’s also a favourite location for Bollywood films.
Location: Muder, Cansaulim, Goa 40371
Built: 1721
St. John the Baptist Church
This church, among the most beautiful sights in North Goa, has a typical Goan architecture. Situated on top of a hill, this church has charming altar and galleries with lovely designs. The feast in this church is a very energetic event when there are many festivities and a lot of fun and enjoyment.
Location: Perto de Igreja principál de, Benaulim, Goa
Built: 1956
St. Augustine Tower
St. Augustine Tower is located just 500meters from the famous Basilica of Old Goa . Once upon a time a vibrant & imposing church, now only a part of the front facade remains. Scale of the ruins are magnificent. One can only imagine the full glory of the finished church. A must see in old Goa for history buffs. Impressive ruins. You have to visit when you are in Old Goa. Still stands high & telling glorious past of Goa. 46 meter high Auguistine church tower & ruins of church is a UNESCO world heritage site.
Location: Ruins, Goa Velha, Goa
Built: 1602
Rachol Seminary
The Rachol Seminary in Goa stands out as the biggest seminary in Goa and serves as a training ground for Christian priests. A colourful arch created with laterite stone that is part of a wall greets tourists. There is a little hillock and a white building that resembles a church, along with a lovely garden that has tall walls on the side. The Portuguese king established the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, also known as The Rachol Seminary, in 1609. The Saints College is where those who want to study the Christian religion can do so. Rachol Town, which is only 7 kilometres from Margao City, is where it is situated. This was started by the young monarch of Portugal.
Location: Margao, in Salcete taluka, Goa
Built: 1609
Our Lady of Piety - Divar Island
This Church is dedicated to Our Lady of Piety which is lies on the main alter. A huge statue of St. Francis of Assisi and the statue of Jesus on the cross which is equally huge lies in the main altar. On the both side of main altar paintings are displayed on woods depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi. To the south side of the Church of Our Lady of Compassion one can see a remnant of the Kadamba era. There is a chapel enclosed in a tiny walled cemetery which is converted from the former Hindu shrine.
Location: Piedade, Divar Island, Goa
Built: 1609
North Goa Locations
Panjim
PANJIM, also known as Panaji, is the capital of the Indian state of Goa and the administrative centre for the North Goa district. It was once the territorial capital of the historic Portuguese India. It is located in the Tiswadi sub-district on the shores of the Mandovi riverbank (tehsil). Terraced hills, concrete structures with balconies and red-tiled roofs, churches, and a riverbank promenade characterise Panaji. Avenues are surrounded with gulmohar, acacia, and other trees. The baroque Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church overlooks Praça da Igreja, the major plaza. Panaji was chosen as one of 100 Indian cities to be built as a smart city as part of the Smart Cities Mission. After the Portuguese transferred the capital from Velha Goa in the 17th century, the city was created with stepped streets and a seven-kilometre-long promenade on a planned grid pattern. On March 22, 1843, it was upgraded from a town to a city.
Forts
Fort Aguada
Fort Aguada is a well-preserved seventeenth-century Portuguese Fort with a lighthouse on Sinquerim Beach in Goa, overlooking the Arabian Sea. ASI protected a National Monument of Importance. This 1612 fort was formerly the grandstand for 79 cannons. It has a capacity of 2,376,000 gallons of water, making it one of the largest freshwater storages in Asia at the time to guard against the Dutch. It acted as a reference point for ships arriving from Europe at the time, and a freshwater spring within the fort supplied water to visiting ships. This is how the fort got its name: Aguada, meaning watery in the Portuguese language. This old Portuguese fort is located south of Candolim, alongside the Mandovi River.
Chapora Fort
CHAPORA FORT sits high over the Chapora River near Bardez, Goa. The site was the location of a fort established by Muslim king Adil Shah called Shahpura, which the Portuguese changed to Chapora, while the structure that stands now was rebuilt by Portuguese colonists in 1717. It is today a famous tourist destination, with a 360-degree view north across the Chapora River to Pernem, south across Vagator, and west to the Arabian Sea.
Beaches
Calangute Beach
Calangute Beach is the largest and most dynamic beach in North Goa, as well as a renowned tourist destination. Calangute Beach, formerly known as Kolongutt Beach, got its current name from Portuguese sailors who renamed it years ago. Another probable origin of the name is the words 'Konvallo-Ghott' (pit of the coconut tree), owing to the fact that the area is surrounded by coconut trees. It is also known as the "Queen of Beaches" because of its golden sand and attracts tourists from all over the world with fun-filled water sport activities such as parasailing, water surfing, banana rides, and jet-skiing. Calangute beach's beach shacks serve a wide range of Goan seafood dishes
Baga Beach
BAGA BEACH is a popular tourist destination and beach in North Goa. Baga is located at the northern end of a continuous beach stretch that begins in Sinquerim, continues to Candolim, then to Calangute, and finally to Baga. The beach is named after Baga Creek, which flows into the Arabian Sea at the beach's northern end. Baga Beach is well-known for its upscale nightlife. Many bars, lounges, and clubs on Tito's Lane, such as Club Tito, Cafe Mambo, Cape Town Cafe, Cocktails and Dreams, and Cavala, contribute to Goa's best nightlife.
Anjuna beach
Anjuna beach a remarkable rocky structure, which is known for its gorgeous atmosphere of swaying palm trees and cove of white sand and black rock that protrudes into the sea. According to Teresa Albuquerque, a historian, the name of the settlement is a translation of the Arabic word "Hanjuman" (meaning Merchant Guild). Some claim that it originates from the Arabic word meaning "changing." It was first found by hippies in the 1960s, then became a hub for travellers and fans of psychedelic parties, and recently has gained popularity with young Indians from large cities.
Vagator Beach
Vagator Beach is a serene beachfront with white sands and clear sea. The name Vagator is derived from the words Vaga (tiger) and tir (shore), and it refers to a tiger-infested location. Vagator was once a thickly wooded region linked to the Sahyadri mountain range. The rave culture is well-known on the rocky and lonely beach. Previously popular with international visitors, it is now very popular with Indian tourists.
Dona Paula
Dona Paula is a village in Panaji, Goa, India, and a popular tourist attraction. Dona Paula Amaral Antónia de Souto Maior, a historical woman in Portuguese India, inspired the location's name. She was a kind woman who was renowned to assist the people. The inhabitants chose to call the settlement Dona Paula after her death. A whitewashed monument placed on the rocks near the ferry jetty is one of Dona Paula's attractions. There are several theories as to why Baroness Yrse Von Leistner sculpted it in 1969. According to the Goa Tourism Board's website, it is called "Image of India" and shows Mother India and Young India, with one looking to the East and the other to the West.
Miramar
Miramar is situated near the mouth of the Mandovi River. Miramar is derived from the Portuguese term for "viewing the sea." The beach is well-known for its silky golden sand and palm palms. The sand on the beach is supposed to shine brighter under the moonlight. The two-kilometre-long beach is popular, with both residents and tourists flocking to it. It's a popular spot for a leisurely stroll down as the sun sets in the distance. Another draw of the beach is the breath-taking view of Aguada Fort, which was erected by the Portuguese to protect their colony Goa. The fort is located on the other side of the Mandovi River.