things to do in goa – Wandering Jane Blog

Goa is a coastal paradise located in southwestern India, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. From sun-kissed beaches to ancient temples, Goa has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit in Goa.

Beaches:

Goa is famous for its beautiful beaches, and there are plenty to choose from. Some of the most popular beaches include:

Calangute Beach: One of the most popular beaches in Goa, Calangute is known for its lively atmosphere and water sports activities.

Anjuna Beach: Famous for its flea market and vibrant party scene, Anjuna is a popular destination for young travelers.

Baga Beach: Another lively beach with a bustling nightlife scene, Baga is known for its beach clubs, shacks, and restaurants.

Palolem Beach: A beautiful crescent-shaped beach with clear waters, Palolem is a quieter destination that’s perfect for relaxation.

Forts:

Goa has a rich history, and several forts built during the Portuguese era still stand tall in the state. Some of the most popular forts include:

Aguada Fort: Built in the 17th century, Aguada Fort is located on the Sinquerim Beach and is known for its lighthouse and beautiful views.

Chapora Fort: Made famous by the Bollywood movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’, Chapora Fort is located in North Goa and offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.

Reis Magos Fort: Another Portuguese-era fort, Reis Magos is located on the northern bank of the Mandovi River and is known for its beautiful architecture.

Temples:

Goa is also known for its beautiful temples, which showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage. Some of the most popular temples include:

Shri Mangueshi Temple: Located in Ponda, the Shri Mangueshi Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful architecture.

Shanta Durga Temple: Another popular temple in Ponda, the Shanta Durga Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is known for its beautiful surroundings.

Mahalaxmi Temple: Located in Panaji, the Mahalaxmi Temple is dedicated to the Goddess of wealth and is known for its beautiful architecture.

Churches:

Goa is also famous for its beautiful churches, which reflect the state’s Portuguese heritage. Some of the most popular churches include:

Basilica of Bom Jesus: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is known for its beautiful baroque architecture and houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.

Se Cathedral: Located in Old Goa, the Se Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Asia and is known for its beautiful architecture.

Church of St. Francis of Assisi: Another beautiful church located in Old Goa, the Church of St. Francis of Assisi is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful frescoes.

Wildlife Sanctuaries:

Goa is home to several wildlife sanctuaries, which offer a glimpse of the state’s natural beauty. Some of the most popular sanctuaries include:

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the Western Ghats, the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to several species of animals and birds.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary: Another popular sanctuary located in South Goa, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its dense forests and beautiful waterfalls.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: Located on the Chorao Island, the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers and is home to several species of birds.

Goa is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, as it offers a diverse range of fishing experiences. Here are some fishing experiences you can enjoy in Goa:

Deep Sea Fishing: This is one of the most popular fishing experiences in Goa. You can charter a boat and head out into the deep sea to catch some big game fish like tuna, barracuda, and kingfish.

Beach Fishing: Fishing from the beaches of Goa is a great way to spend a relaxing day. You can try your luck catching small fish like mackerel, catfish, and barramundi.

Backwater Fishing: The backwaters of Goa offer a unique fishing experience. You can hire a traditional Goan fishing boat and try your hand at catching some local fish like the Goan catfish, pomfret, and prawns.

Kayak Fishing: Kayak fishing is a popular activity in Goa, where you can paddle around the mangroves and try to catch some fish in the shallow waters.

Night Fishing: If you’re looking for a unique fishing experience, you can try night fishing in Goa. You can go out on a boat and use lights to attract fish like snapper, barramundi, and mangrove jack.

Overall, Goa offers a variety of fishing experiences that cater to both beginners and experienced anglers. You can book a fishing tour with a local operator or hire your own equipment and explore the waters on your own.

So, why not take the first step towards your next great adventure? Visit our website at www.wanderingjane.com or give us a call at +91 998 656 5263 (Jane) to start planning your journey today. We can’t wait to help you discover the world and all its wonders.