40 Places to Visit in Goa

Goa is a state which boasts of a rich heritage both from its Indian origin and the Portugal Colonization. The hints of its colonial ancestry can be seen in the age-old Churches and tropical spice plantations. However, all these aspects combined with the serene and picturesque beaches, colorful local markets, ancient temples, mouth-watering seafood, and sizzling nightlife are the driving forces behind the state's flourishing tourism industry. Goa comes among the main tourist attractions in India.

Every Indian has dreamed of visiting Goa at least once in their lifetime, and if you're one of them, then hop on this journey with us and dive into these best places to visit in Goa, pick the ones that pique your interest, and put them in your bucket list! 

1. Baga Beach

Baga Beach is hands down, one of the best and the most popular places to visit in Goa! Baga is one of the most lively beaches in Goa. It has a plethora of options available for tourists to have their best time, ranging from exciting water sports to yummy food and designer stores. Thus making it a fun place in Goa.

However, the main highlight of the beach is its late-night parties and celebrations that have everyone on their toes! Popular as 'the hometown of nightlife', Baga has some of the top nightclubs in the city and is the best beach to get the true taste of Goa's Nightclub Life. Furthermore here you can also find the best hotels in Goa near baga beach so you can have a romantic stay in Baga beach with your partner.

Things to do :- Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Paddleboarding, wakeboarding, Arpora Saturday Night Flea Market 

Location: North Goa, India

2. Calangute Beach, Goa

The next pick for the top tourist spot  in Goa is Calangute Beach. Titled the 'Queen of Beaches, Calangute is one of the most popular beaches in Goa, and rightfully so! Adorned with Coconut and Palm trees, the beach is a delight for tourists in every aspect.

 From water sports, vibrant local markets such as the Tibetan market to happening clubs and pleasant eateries, the beach has got everything to keep you engaged all day long without getting bored. Also, if you're keen on having a happening nightlife experience, then Calangute is the Ideal fun place in Goa. 

Things to do :- Jet Skiing, parasailing, exploring the Saturday bazaar, enjoying the banana ride, etc. 

Location: North Goa, India 

3. The Sunburn Festival, Goa

If you happen to be in Goa during December, then the annual Sunburn Festival is something you should look forward to! This EDM festival is packed with youngsters from across India and the world and hosts some of the most happening DJs from all around the globe.

 The festival goes on for 3 days with people losing themselves in the beats of the music and enjoying their best times with an energetic crowd and the best EDM artists. Held in Vagator every year, it has turned into main Goa attraction in the recent years and has added on to the popularity of this  beautiful goan beach. 

Location: Vagator Beach, Goa

4. Anjuna Beach, Goa

 Anjuna Beach is one of the best places to visit in Goa. Spanning across a distance of 2 km, the beach is a treat for the eyes as well as a fun place for vacationers.

 With an array of water sports activities, restaurants, and picturesque views, the beach is a great fun place in Goa. , family vacation. Especially famous is the beach's Wednesday Flea Market. For the tourists who want more than just the normal definition of 'fun activities', Anjuna has a few of the best nightclubs in Goa! 

Things to do:- Snorkelling, banana riding, parasailing, exploring the flea market. 

Location: North Goa, India

5. Fort Aguada

Deriving its name from the Portuguese word 'Agua' meaning water, the Aguada Fort is among the popular forts in Goa  is a 17th-century monument overlooking the meeting of the Mandovi river with the Arabian sea.

 Built as a protective measure against the Marathas and the Dutch, the fort was of extreme significance to the Portuguese. The fort also has a history of being used as a Jail! Now a famous sightseeing place for tourists, the highlight of the fort is its four-story lighthouse and the mesmerizing view of the sunset. All these features definitely call for a visit to this historical place. 

Location: Candolim, Goa

6. Basilica of Bom Jesus

Housing the mortal remains of Sanit. Francis Xavier, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most iconic, ancient marvels as well as a pilgrimage site for tourists from around the globe. Built in the 16th century, the Basilica is one of the oldest churches in Goa and is counted among the popular places to visit in Goa.

Showcasing the brilliance of the Baroque architecture, the church is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site and also one among the Seven Wonders of Portuguese Origin in the World. 

Location: Old Goa Road, Bainguinim,  Goa. 

7. Butterfly Beach 

For an experience full of solitude and away from the crowd, the butterfly beach is one of the best places to visit in Goa.   The beach is mostly frequented by tourist couples and honeymooners who want to have a private vacation, the reason why it is also popularly called the 'Honeymoon Beach'.

With numerous vibrant butterflies traversing the sky and glimpses of dolphins dancing around in the sea, you'll have the time of your life at this wonderful beach surrounded by nature and its wonders from every side! So, next time you're at Palolem or Agonda , make sure to take a ferry or a ship to this serene island of solitude which is An offbeat tourist attraction in South Goa!  

Things to do:- Canoeing, Kayaking, surfing, handicraft shopping 

Location: South Goa, India

8. Chapora Fort

Rising high above the river Chapora, the fort was originally named Shahpura and was built by Adil Shah. Today the ruined fort has become a popular tourist attraction and is one of the popular forts in Goa, especially owing its popularity to the movie 'Dil Chahta Hai'.

 The fort is a good 10-minute climb away and can be challenging to reach. However, the main attraction of this tourist spot  lies in the spectacular view it offers of the nearby Vagator Beach as well as the Arabian sea, especially at dusk. 

Location: Bardez, North Goa

9. Palolem Beach

Adorned with Palm trees and beautiful wooden cabins, Palolem beach is a beautiful and serene beach and one of the best places to visit in  Goa.

Facing Canacona Island, Palolem is known for its mesmerizing views, stretches of white sand, gentle waves, and unique nightlife, owing to the one-of-a-kind 'Silent Discos', where people party with headphones on. You can also take yoga lessons or take a relaxing ayurvedic massage here. The beach is  one of the best places to visit for sunbathing. 

Things to do:- Dolphin-spotting, enjoy Silent Discos, get an ayurvedic massage

Location: Canacona, South Goa. 

10. The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

Once just a small chapel, the church has undergone numerous modifications in the period between its birth in 1541 and its glorious present-day self. Today, this goa sightseeing in the capital city of Panaji, with a white exterior and a colorful interior is a symbol of peace and worship for natives and has earned fame as a favorite tourist spot worldwide.

This popular sightseeing location is especially a treat to be around during December with the feast of Our lady of immaculate conception commencing on the 8th followed by Christmas and New Year's celebrations every year! 

Location: Emilio Gracia & Jose Falcao Road, Panaji, Goa

11. Candolim Beach

One of the fun places in Goa the Candolim beach has gained top position among the  best places to visit in Goa. This mesmerizing  beach depicts the authentic goan lifestyle  and the goan cuisine.   

 One of the popular trios of beaches in north Goa, Candolim offers everything that Baga and Calangute have to offer including adventurous water sports, dynamic nightlife, local shopping stops, and more. Perfect destination to visit on your 3 days Goa tour. Around 12 km from the capital city, Candolim is a frequently visited beach by tourists especially because it is less crowded than its counterparts in the area. 

Things to do:- Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Bumpy Banana Ride, Jet Skiing, Parasailing

Location: North Goa, India

12. Se Cathedral 

One of the largest and finest churches in the world,  Se Cathedral also known as St. Catherine's Cathedral is worth mentioning. It is a 16th-century creation that was completed after 80 years of hard work. 

 This place of interest was built to glorify and commemorate the Portuguese rule in India, the church is today a part of the World Heritage Site Churches and Convents of Goa. The church is also known for having the world-famous 'Golden Bell' which is a part of the church's major features. Among the main Goa attractions this  Portuguese church holds a significant place.

Location: Old Goa, India 

13. Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple 

A spiritual addition to our list of top tourist destinations in Goa  is Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple. It is one of the most ancient and sacred Hindu temples in Goa. The temple derives its name from one of Lord Shiva's incarnations, Saptakoteshwar meaning Lord of Seven Crores.

The temple attracts special attention during Gokulashtami, a festival celebrated to mark the day Lord Shiva incarnated as Saptkoteshwar. It is the most important festival for the devotees from across Goa and other states of India. 

Location: Maem, North Goa.

14. Sinquerim Beach

Sinquerim Beach is another popular name among places to visit in Goa owing to the famous Sunburn Festival which is an annual celebration taking place on the beach in December. Another popular attraction is the Aguada Fort. 

Enjoying a refreshing swim/ water sports activity with your friends and family at this fun place in Goa or going on an eating spree at the delicious seafood restaurants are other fun things that are worth trying, while on the beach! 

  Things to do:- paragliding, visiting Love Passion Karma, Crocodile spotting

Location: North Goa, India

15. Anjuna Flea Market 

Open every Wednesday, the Anjuna Flea market is a place worth exploring, for anyone who wants to enjoy the true Goan experience and especially shopping lovers.  You can find anything in the market ranging from hippie clothing, handicrafts to trendy jewelry, footwear, and whatnot.

Hosting specialties from every state of India along with live music and performances, yummy seafood, and innumerable small stalls, the market is the perfect fun place in Goa to feel the warmth and energy of human interactions and to shop your heart away. 

 Location: Anjuna Beach, North Goa, India

16. Maruti Temple

Located on top of Altinho Hill and overlooking the Fontainhas district, the Maruti Temple in Goa is an ancient pilgrimage site that sees hordes of devotees especially during a special festival in February. The Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

 There is also a long and interesting tale behind the construction of this temple, and if you're a history enthusiast, then you should make sure to  pay a visit to this historical place once you are on a Goan trip .

Location: Altinho, Panaji, Goa. 

17. Betalbatim Beach 

Betalbatim Beach is popularly known as the 'glowing beach of Goa' thanks to the bioluminescent algae present in the water, which impart the shoreline a natural glow at night. If you are in love with nature then this place of interest is a must-visit for nature lovers  

You can enjoy delicious food here from an array of local fast-food chains restaurants. Other highlights of the beach include the easy dolphin spotting and the pine trees adorning it instead of the usual palm trees. So, if you're looking for some charismatic tourist attractions in Goa , then this glowing beach is one of the worthy places to visit in Goa.

Location: Madgaon, Go

18. The Arvalem/ Pandava Caves

Popularly known as the Pandava Caves due to the belief that the five Pandava brothers took refuge in them when they were in their exile period. However, cut into laterite rock, the cave resembles a lot of Buddhist architecture styles making their origin a mystery to this day. 

The unique design of the caves along with a waterfall and the Rudreshwar temple nearby make it a frequently visited tourist spot. The cave complex comprises two primary caves and a residential area. The cave has five compartments, with the middle one sheltering the 'Linga'. People with a keen interest and knowledge of history must visit to this historical place which is a marvel cum mystery! 

Location: Sanquelim, North Goa

19. Mahalakshmi Temple

Among the many sacred temples situated in Bandivade, one of the most important ones and most frequented by devotees from across India is the temple of goddess Mahalaxmi. The Temple has been in existence since at least 1413. 

There's a beautiful story of devotion behind the temple's history and how and why it has two idols of the goddess Mahalaxmi. Other deities honored in the temple are Shri Ravalnath, Shri Narayan Purush, Shri Baleshwar, and many more. Also, the temple has idols of Safto and Fato, two devotees who saved the Idol of the Goddess from Clova. The Temple holds a very special place among the temples of Goa and is one of the stunning places to visit in Goa.

Location: Bandivade, North Goa, India

20. Naval Aviation Museum

Situated in Bogmalo, Vasco Da Gama, the Naval Aviation Museum is a military museum inaugurated in October 1998 that showcases the decades-long history, evolution, and advancements of the Indian Naval Air Arm. The Museum has two parts, a two-storied indoor gallery, and an outdoor exhibition. 

It is a unique treat to witness and is a one-of-a-kind museum in the whole of Asia making it one of the best Goa sightseeing spot. the Naval Aviation Museum is a wonderful experience for anyone who takes pride in India's armed forces! 

Location: Vasco Da Gama, South Goa. 

21. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

If wildlife excites you then this beautiful sanctuary is a place of interest for you in Goa. Owning the title of being one of the smallest protected areas in Goa, the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 7.98 square km and is a haven for both nature lovers and the flora and fauna of the area.

The sanctuary comprises a zoological park, a variety of formal gardens, a botanical garden, Natural trails, a nature education center, and an archeological exhibition. With a wide range of indigenous flora and fauna, the wildlife sanctuary is a perfect way to spend your day educating yourself on the marvels of mother nature. 

Location: Ponda Taluka, Goa

22. Morjim Beach

Morjim is one of the most soothing beaches around North Goa and is among the top tourist places to visit in Goa.  Home to the Olive Ridley Turtles, the beach is also called the 'turtle Beach' because of them. With a quiet atmosphere, the beach provides you with an ideal place for laying around or going on long walks.

 Another fun fact about the beach is that it attracts a lot of Russian tourists who spend more than a month here. This is the reason why the beach has got a variety of restaurants selling Russian cuisine, has Russian signboards, and has even been named 'little Prussian by the locals! 

Things to do:- Dolphin spotting, Kite flying, Freediving, trying Russian cuisine. 

Location: North Goa, India.

23. Shree Shantadurga Temple

If you a religious person then Shree Shantadurga Chamundeshwari Temple is definitely a place of interest for you.  Established in 1560, the temple was initially constructed in Salcete Taluka, Kudtari. 

However, due to the threat of conversion, the founders of the temple fled with the deities to Shevlon, Chandrawadi, which became the new home of the deities during the 16th century. Today, the temple lies in the village Avedem due to another such movement and is worshipped by both Hindus and Christians alike. 

Location: Avedem, Quepem Taluka, South Goa. 

24. Reis Magos Fort 

First brought to existence in 1551 by Alfonso De Noronha, the Reis Magos Fort was modified and reconstructed in 1707. Serving as an essential defensive shield, the fort has served the Portuguese well through their war with the Martha empire in 1739.

 Said to have been occupied by the British post-1798 and later abandoned to be used as a prison, the fort has undergone multiple changes. Having undergone numerous repairs, the fort still stands and speaks of its age-old history and is a loved destination among the various forts in Goa. 

Location: Bardez, Verem, Goa. 

25. Church Of St. Cajetan

Another fascinating Roman Catholic Church adorning the city of Old Goa is the Church of Saint. Cajetan. Also popular as the Church of Devine Providence, the church came into existence in 1661, the church is a proud member of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Churches and Convents of Goa list and is an integral part of goa's tourism. Standing proudly, showcasing the Latin inscriptions and design of the Greek cross, the church is an architectural spectacle thus making it a worth Goa sightseeing. If you want to witness the beauty of this popular Goa attraction up close, then make sure to add it to your list of things to do..

Location: Old Goa Road, Bainguinim, Goa

26. Dudhsagar Waterfalls 

Literal for 'sea of milk', the Dudhsagar waterfallsis another appealing tourist spot in Goa especially for nature lovers. Situated at the Goa-Karnataka border, the waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in India, measuring around 310 meters in height, and is divided into four layers, finally merging into the Mondovi River. 

Monsoon is the ideal time to witness this place in its lush green glory. However, care must be taken as it can get quite difficult to reach the falls during the rainy season. 

Location: Sonaulim, Goa

27. Clova Beach

Stretching over a distance of 2.4 km, the Clova beach is a magnificent tourist spot, one that is loved by tourists from all walks of life. Holding the title of the oldest and the largest beach, Clova was a favorite vacation spot even for the Portuguese and the British back in the day.

 The ruins of old Portugal houses and villas can still be spotted here. The beach just like all the vacation-friendly beaches in Goa has a wide variety of shops and activities to cater to your needs and interests. 

Things to do:- enjoy the nightclub life, swimming, water scooter, parasailing.

Location:- Clova, South Goa, India

28. Shree Mangueshi Temple 

Dedicated to Lord Mangueshi who is another form of Lord Shiva, the 400 years old temple is well-known among tourists from across India. Its beautiful yet simplistic architecture has been a point of fascination among devotees. 

The temple also houses the statue of Nandi Bull and a beautiful seven-storied Deepstambha. A water tank believed to be the oldest part of the temple is also a point of interest. If you are a devotee then make sure to add this beautiful, serene temple to your list of Goan tourist attractions. 

Location: Mangeshi Village, Mardol, Goa. 

29. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

Part of the rich Western Ghats terrain, the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is flowing with a diverse array of flora and fauna and hence is considered a global biodiversity hotspot. For anyone who loves animals or is a keen wildlife enthusiast this sanctuary is a must-visit place in Goa.  

 The Indian Black Panther, Gaur, Sambar Deer, Giant Squirrel, Asian Palm Civet, are a few of the many species found here. However, one of  the main tourist attractions of the Sanctuary is the Royal Bengal Tiger! It also harbors several bird species and is an International bird area.  

Location: Sattari Taluka, North Goa, India

30. Arambol Beach

One of the recent addition to the fun places in Goa is the Arambol Beach. The beauty of this alluring beach attracts both the  Indian and  the international tourists alike. Its bohemian feel, lively nightlife, live music acts, and numerous beach huts make the beach a wholesome place to enjoy your holiday. 

The beach also hosts two of the most happening festivals namely the Indian Juggling Convention and the Tribal Dance Festival. Another unique feature is the drum circles which allow people with musical talent to come together and enjoy some self-made melody.

Things to do:- banana boat ride, bumper ride, Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Surfing.  

Location: Arambol, North Goa

31. Saturday Night Market

As the name suggests, this is a vibrant market that is set up every Saturday at 6 in the evening. Located in Arpora, the market hosts a variety of things to bring to you an authentic Goa experience that you will forever cherish. 

This fun place in Goa  displays a diverse collection of shops/stalls dealing in all kinds of goods ranging from spices, jewelry, to garments, handicrafts, and more. What adds to the charm are the numerous musicians listening to the mood with live music! Last but not least are the numerous stalls with an array of cuisines to salvage your quest for good food!  This Saturday night market offers the liveliest shopping experience.

Location: Arpora, Goa

32. Lakshmi Narsimha Temple 

Located in Vellinga, the beautiful Shree Laxmi Narasimha Temple is an 18th-century temple dedicated to Narsimha, the fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. The hallway of the temple depicts images of all the different avatars of Lord Vishnu. 

If religion is your cup of tea then this is one of the breath-taking places to visit in Goa. Visitors can also find a water tank and a musician's gallery nearby. Restricted to only the devotees, the temple celebrates a variety of major festivals including Manguirish Yatra, Ramnavami, Navratri, etc.  

Location: Veling, Mardol, Goa

33. Savoi Spice Plantation

Among our chosen diverse variety of places to visit in Goa, Savoi Spice Plantation is a unique and very interesting addition, especially for keen minds. 

The plantation is spread over an area of around 100 acres and has been maintained and managed by the Shetye family for around 2 centuries. 15 km from the cultural capital, Ponda, the Savoi plantation is wonderfully maintained and has gained recognition for its well-guided, interaction plantation tours. In span of a few years this plantation has turned into a famous Goa sightseeing spot. 

Location: Panaji, Goa, India. 

34. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife sanctuary

Spanning an area of around 240 square km, the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, set on the base of the western ghats, is the largest in Goa. Home to an enormous variety of animals, birds, and plants, it is a perfect destination for nature cum wildlife enthusiasts as well as hikers. In 1978, around 107 Square km of the sanctuary's core area was labeled as a National Park, known today as the Mollem National Park. 

The Devil's Canyon, Dudhsagar Waterfall, the Tambi Falls, and the Tambi Surla Temple are a few of the famous tourist attractions of the place. So, if you are looking for appealing Goa attraction   , then Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife sanctuary is a must-visit! 

Location: Mollem, South Goa, India 

35. Arvalem Falls 

Harvalem Falls, better known as Arvalem Falls is a 50 meters tall waterfall located in Sanquelim, North Goa. The waterfall is a scenic location and a wonderful area for a family picnic, making it a popular tourist spot 

A new park has also been developed recently with protective fences near the waterfall, allowing the tourists to appreciate the waterfall in its all-natural glory, even better. Monsoon is the best time to visit the waterfall as there's hardly any water during other seasons. You can also go and pay your visit to the Rudreshwar Temple situated nearby.  

Location: Sanquelim, Goa.

36. Church of St. Francis of Assisi 

The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi is a Portugal catholic church built by the Portuguese in 1661. Though not among the popularly visited churches of the city, it is a sight to behold as it highlights a vivid mixture of intricacy and remarkable architectural skills.

 There's also an adjoining archeological museum present. The church offers a calm and serene atmosphere and is a wonderful place to explore. A visit to this historical place is a must if you are interested in the Portuguese cultural and history.   

Location: Velha, Goa, Índia. 

37. Vainguinim Beach 

One of the less popular yet worth-visiting tourist spot  in Goa is Vainguinim Beach. Valued for its clear green-blue waters and silver sparkling sand, the beach offers solitude wrapped in nature. 

The beach is also known for harboring around 500 different bird species and is a wonderful destination for a trip away from the busy city. You can go for an energizing swim, opt for any water sport activity, or just sit and bask in the scenic view in front of you, as per your preference. 

Things to do: Windsurfing, Water Skiing, Parasailing, Wakeboarding, etc. 

Location: Panaji, Goa

38. Cabo De Rama Beach

A secluded and underrated destination among the well-known places to visit in South Goa is Cabo De Rama Beach situated in Margao in the southern part of Goa. 

Also known as Cab De Ram among the locals, the beach is considered to be one of the most stunning places in India. Surrounded by natural beauty all around and overlooking a Portugal Fort, the beach is especially loved for the mesmerizing views especially of the sunset. Perfect for a peaceful outing with friends or family away from the crowd. 

Location: South Goa, India 

39. Sri Mahadeva Temple

Claimed to be the most ancient temple in the entirety of Goa, the Sri Mahadeva Temple of Tambi Surla has been present since the 12th century. Though it was built by Hemadri, a minister of the King of the Yadava Dynasty, however, some part of its architecture has influences from the Kadamba Dynasty, making its real origin a mystery to this date.

Brought to life using basalt rocks, this intricately carved temple is a marvel to witness and is acclaimed as a significant Goa attraction. Inside it has a Shivlinga and a headless statue of Nandi. The temple also witnesses a joyous celebration of mahashivratri every year by the locals from the surrounding villages! 

Location- Tambi Surla, Goa

40. Chorao Island

Last but not the least is the Chorao island. This enticing island holds immense importance as  one of the main Goa attractions  that contrasts the popular belief of the coastal state of goa while simultaneously showcasing the raw Goan beauty.

 Like any other part of Goa, the island still has signs of Portugal colonization but with the brahminical culture combined, it is still a pleasing sight. The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Chapel of St. Jerome, and Shree Devki Krishna Temple are a few must-visit attractions on the island. This island is what we can call, food for the soul. 

Things to do: Feni tasting, visiting the bird sanctuary, boat riding.

Location: Panaji, Goa

Conclusion

From popular beaches to secluded marvels, the places to visit in Goa are numerous but touring each one of them isn't a possible reason why we curated a list of 40 must-see destinations! All these locations have their own value and contribute in their own unique way to the state's richness and popularity. 

So, if nothing is stopping you from basking in the Goa history and Climate and getting a taste of the real Goan goodness, then get your gang ready, pack your bags, book your tickets, book one of the cheap hotels in Goa below 500, and last but not least don't forget to take your covid vaccination certificate with you. If you have any doubts or want additional information regarding the same, then head over to our Covid Vaccination Certificate guide to clarify all your doubts!