Hey! You're finally here, this must mean you have finally made a plan to visit Goa, we can't be more excited to have you here. Goa, has so many beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and so much to do, that you'll lose yourself in the enthralling life of Goa. But before we dive into the list of things to do in Goa, let's go through some briefs about Goa's location and lifestyle.

Goa is a state at India’s southwest coast that is part of the Konkan area separated from the Deccan highlands by the Western Ghats. It is bordered on the north by Maharashtra and on the east and south by Karnataka, with the Arabian Sea defining its western shore. It is India’s smallest state in terms of land area and the fourth-smallest in terms of population. The state’s capital is Panaji, and its major city is Vasco da Gama. 

The tourist industry in Goa is mostly centered on the coastal areas, with less activity inland. In 2010, more than 2 million visitors were estimated to have visited Goa, with over 1.2 million of them coming from outside the country. As of 2013, Goa was a popular party destination for Indian and international travelers with minimal funds, notably Britons and Russians. The state hoped that by making modifications, it would be able to attract a more affluent populace.

Goa is ranked 6th in National Geographic Travel’s Top 10 Nightlife Cities in the World. Chronicle, Mambos, and Sinq are among Goa’s most popular nightclubs. In CNN Travel’s Top 20 Beaches in Asia, Palolem’s Patnem beach came in third.

Because of its white-sand beaches, bustling nightlife, places of religion, and World Heritage-listed architecture, the state attracts a considerable number of foreign and local tourists each year; and offers a number of things to do in Goa. Because it is located on the Western Ghats range, a biodiversity hotspot, it boasts diverse flora and fauna.

Top 10 things to do in Goa

Goa is the ideal Indian vacation destination since it offers all of life’s joys in one location. This lovely city on India’s western coast is home to several tourist attractions. Goa is also called the “Pearl of the Orient” and “Tourist Paradise” for this reason. Besides, the stare is also known as India’s “beach capital,” and thus has a lot to offer the visitors.

In Goa, there is something for everyone. Its beaches, rich trees, rivers, and islands will appeal to nature lovers. The many churches and forts of Goa will delight cultural buffs. You will like the seafood and Konkani cuisine if you are a foodie. For those seeking excitement, there is snorkeling, diving, paragliding, and go-karting. The waterparks will be a hit with the kids. You may also witness dolphins and birds by taking a sea or river tour. Goa also offers several lovely marketplaces where you may buy a variety of unusual items and gifts to take home.

Nature lovers, adventurous individuals, photographers, and nightlife enthusiasts will find Goa to be a kind of heaven. You may spend your vacation in Goa in any way you like. Spend a quiet vacation doing nothing or a busy vacation eating, drinking, partying, and sightseeing.

Beach is a must-see

Goa attracts a large number of tourists who like spending time on the beaches because of its sun-kissed and extensive lengths of silvery beaches. From north to south, Goa has a plethora of stunning beaches. You won’t be able to see them all, so choose wisely. The beaches in North Goa are livelier, with more activities, parties, and shopping. 

The beaches in the south are calmer and more relaxing. In the south, there is also more natural beauty. Relax in a hut on the beach, have a massage, eat and drink. Palolem Beach is Goa’s most popular beach. Even though there are shacks and cottages on the beach, it was and continues to be popular. This lovely beach has long been loved. 

At the beaches, there is, of course, swimming. But keep in mind that many Goa beaches have rocks. Also, be aware of riptides. The most popular beaches have lifeguards, although not all of them. In Goa, you may also go deep-sea fishing. The morning air is mild and calm, which is ideal for windsurfing or parasailing. You may go boating at any time of day. As a result, these sports energize and delight individuals during their holiday, making it unforgettable.

Go to a waterfall

Tourists flock to Goa because of its waterfalls. Dudhsagar Falls, with a height of 1,017 feet, is one of Goa’s most famous waterfalls. It is one of the attractions that you should not miss while visiting this location. The Arvalem Falls, with a height of 164 feet and a lovely park, is well-known in Goa.

Three beautiful waterfalls make up the Tilari Waterfalls. Although it is located near Belgaum and is a long journey from Goa, it is nevertheless regarded as one of the great Goa waterfalls. There are so many green forests here that the ambiance is almost heavenly, and it hasn't been well prepared for visitors. So be cautious if you go, and remember to bring some water with you to remain hydrated.

Depending on where you want to go and how much money you have, you can go to any of them. Kesarval Falls is unique among waterfalls in that it has therapeutic characteristics. The finest things to do in Goa is to go see these amazing falls. The waterfalls’ scenery and mood are quite breathtaking.

Take a Shopping Trip

Goa is well-known for its retail opportunities. Nobody misses out on Goa’s shopping, which includes apparel, shell works, fashion items, and handicrafts. As a result, you and your loved ones will never be without something.

It’s a good idea to carry something that proves you’re from Goa with you when you leave friends and family at home. Calangute Market Square, Anjuna Flea Market, Mapusa Market, Panjim Market, and others are popular shopping sites for all of these items.

Shopping in Goa is one of the most enjoyable activities to do in. When visiting the city, don’t forget to bring some extra cash with you for shopping. You might not be able to go shopping unless you set aside money for it. With shopping malls brimming with excellent goods, there’s a lot you can get. All you need is some free time to roam around and buy.

Wildlife Sanctuary is worth a visit

Cotigao Animal Sanctuary is a lovely area for the environment and wildlife enthusiasts to explore. It may be found 9 kilometers south of Palolem. Leopards, gaurs, sambars, and spotted deer are the most common animals found in this secluded sanctuary. Monkeys, birds, snakes, and frogs are among the many other species that may be found here. 

The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located near Molem, is a must-see. Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers will like it. Here, in the heart of Mother Nature, nature enthusiasts can find some tranquility. As one of Goa’s best wildlife reserves, you may observe significant wild creatures like the panther and sloth bear, as well as mice and other species. Visitors will be captivated by the variety of birds and beautiful flora and animals.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is the smallest of Goa’s wildlife sanctuaries, yet it is unquestionably one of the best for various reasons. It is an outstanding jungle resort with Eco-Tourism cottages in the Ponda region, making it nothing short of a paradise for nature enthusiasts who may stay and explore the incredibly beautiful but diverse animals. You will get the opportunity to view Indian Bison, Sambar Deer, Indian Peafowl, Malabar Giant Squirrel, a variety of deer, and snakes, among other animal species. 

Old Forts to Visit

The Portuguese used to control Goa. As a result, you can see Portuguese buildings and architectural influences across the city. In the region, you may come across several old yet lovely designs. Goa’s architecture is a mix of Goan, Ottoman, and Portuguese influences. Many churches and residences show a prominent feature of the Portuguese style of architecture due to Portuguese control and governance for four centuries.

Though modern temple design is an amalgamation of traditional Goan temple design with Dravidian, Hemadpanthi, Islamic, and Portuguese architecture, Goan Hindu dwellings exhibit little Portuguese influence. The Aguada Fort, Chapora Fort, Terekhol Fort, and Cabo Fort are the most well-known historical sites in Goa. Each of these structures has an own personality to offer you.

Just make sure you set aside some time for each one. Almost the majority of these forts are located along the seashore. These forts were once used to house captives, store enormous ship tanks, and so on. Paying a visit to these historical forts is a terrific way to have a first-hand experience of each of them.

Eat mouth-watering meals and enjoy the drinks

Goa is at its best when it comes to serving delectable cuisine. In Goa, you must try the local cuisine. We may satiate our appetite at a variety of eateries, food vendors, and street corners. The finest things to do in Goa is to savor the delectable cuisine. Just make sure you’re having fun while eating any of these delights. The region is known for having some of the world’s tastiest and most delectable cuisines.

There are several locations where you may enjoy some of the tastiest and most delectable cuisines. Some of the meals served in Goa are an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. The finest venues to acquire some of these meals will be recommended by your local tour guide and a travel agency. If you’re a vegetarian, you’re in even better shape. The majority of Indians are vegetarians, therefore there are many vegetarian cuisines to choose from. 

Feni is Goa’s most popular alcoholic beverage; cashew feni is manufactured from the fermentation of cashew tree fruit, while coconut feni is manufactured from toddy palm sap. Urrak is another indigenous alcoholic beverage made from cashews. It is worth trying. 

Have a good day exploring adventurous activities

Goa can provide you with thrilling and exciting water rides if you are a thrill-seeker. The vast choice of daring water sports that draw swarms of tourists from all over the world each year is one of Goa’s main attractions. Almost everywhere in Goa, there are a variety of water sports to select from. 

Surfing, water scooters, scuba diving, water skiing, snorkeling, dinghy sailing, jet-skiing, boogie boarding, and deep-sea fishing, as well as parasailing, windsurfing, speed boat, and banana boat excursions, are all popular activities for visitors to this gorgeous and vibrant location. Water sports are typically closed during the rainy season because they are too dangerous.

Paragliding is a thrilling and exciting activity for adrenaline seekers. Paragliding is available at Arambol beach in north Goa for 3,000 INR per hour. There are also journeys with a shorter time. After some basic lessons and a safety check, take off and glide softly up into the sky, assisted, of course, by your instructor. The flight will take off from a cliff between the beaches of Arambol and Harmal. View stunning views of the sea, cliffs, beach, and Goa countryside.

Take an interest in the culture

Dekhnni, Fugdi, Corridinho, Mando, Dulpod, and Fado are traditional Goan art forms. Tiatr is a popular social event among Goan Catholics (Teatro). Music is ingrained in Goan homes as a result of its Portuguese heritage. It is well acknowledged that Goans are born with musical and athletic abilities. Most Catholic religious and social occasions include the use of Western musical instruments such as the piano, guitars, and violins.

Natak, Bhajan, and Kirtan are popular among Hindus in Goa. Mogubai Kurdikar, Kishori Amonkar, Kesarbai Kerkar, Jitendra Abhisheki, and Pandit Prabhakar Karekar are just a few of the great Indian classical vocalists from Goa. Goa is also recognized for being the birthplace of Goa trance.

Apart from tourist attractions, list of things to do in Goa involves the most thrilling experiences that includes fairs and festivals. Christians are the majority in Goa. Some Hindu festivals, on the other hand, enhance Goa tourism. When it comes to festivals, Goa has a lot to offer visitors.

Goa Carnival, Sunburn Festival, Christmas, and Sao Joao Festival, among others, are well-known fairs and festivals. As you have a deeper knowledge of the locals, you can participate in any of them. These events will also aid in your understanding of the local culture.

One of the distinctive elements of Goan villages is the bar culture, where a local bar acts as a gathering place for locals to unwind. Goa also boasts a thriving wine industry.

Look for places to worship

Goa, as is well known, is a mostly Christian city. There are several gorgeous churches to see while in the city. As a result, you will not miss an opportunity to contact your creator while learning about people's way of life. UNESCO has designated several of these churches as world-historic monuments.  

The churches’ architectural styles are reminiscent of bygone eras. Se Cathedral Church, Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Cajetan Church, and others are well-known churches in Goa. Plan to visit one or two churches to have a better understanding of Goa’s history and religion. Certain of these churches are rather old, dating back to the 15th century in some cases.

When you arrive at these cathedrals, you will be surrounded by a large number of other visitors. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch up on prayer sessions and even join them. As a result, don’t expect to be the only one exploring the region. These churches and temples have a great deal of Indian heritage. They contain vital knowledge and lead to ancient India, as well as providing excellent spiritual nutrition.

Try your luck in casinos

Gambling is permitted in only one state in India: Goa. Roulette, slots machines, Indian Flush, poker, blackjack, baccarat, and more games are available to play. There includes live music and dancing, Russian dancers, stand-up comedy presentations, and children’s amusement zones. Some of the most well-known brands are Deltin Royale, Casino Paradise, Deltin Jaqk, Casino Carnival, Casino Pearl, Casino Pride, and Casino Paradise.

The casinos are open all year, although the winter months are the most popular. The majority of them are on-board casinos. Casino games are also available at a few land-based private resorts.

Further, Goa is known for its casino cruises, you may enjoy being in a casino. Machine-operated casinos are becoming increasingly popular in Goa. Men are the majority of those who frequent these casinos. Although gambling is not very popular in India, Goa features several onshore and offshore casinos for travelers who wish to try their luck.

Conclusion

Despite its modest size, the state is one of India’s wealthiest, owing in major part to tourism. More than 80 miles of coastline and India’s most sophisticated mass-market tourism business are the main attractions: Indian culture is given a Goan twist, and unusual foreign habits are tolerated more freely in Goa than elsewhere in India. However, if you dig a little deeper, you’ll discover a wealth of culture and history, as well as some seductively accessible nature.

The top ten things to do in Goa while you visit are listed above. So, for a wonderful and opulent vacation, choose a fantastic India trip. Plan your schedule wisely so that you may see as much of Goa as possible. You’ll realize that Goa has a lot to offer you. For the ideal experience, you’ll need to set aside adequate time and money.