Top 5 Places to Visit in Goa
Read here about the top five places to visit in Goa and why you should not make a delay in booking hotels in Goa.
Did you know that tourist arrivals in Goa crossed the three million mark in 2013? According to statistics from Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the state saw 12 percent growth in tourist arrivals to 31.21 lakh tourists in 2013, from 27.87 lakh in 2012. The popularity of Goa as a vacation destination is beyond question. Different types of tourists visit the state throughout the year. In keeping with that, hotels in Goa are available to suit almost every budget. Almost every type of tourists will find a long list of things to do in Goa.
What not to Miss in Goa
Things to do and places to visit in Goa are a long list. You need to prioritize based on your individual choice. However, there are certain places you cannot afford to miss.
1. Goa Beaches - Whether you want to participate in water sports, try delicious Goan cuisines, get up close and personal with the nature, or join trance parties, Goa beaches offer you a overwhelming variety of activities to choose from. The beaches in Goa get a new look in every season. Around 83 km of the 125 km long coastline of Goa is covered with beaches. Hotels in Goa near the beaches are available in plenty, so finding a suitable one for you should not be a problem.
2. Markets - Shopping is an integral part of every tour, and your Goa tour is not going to be an exception. Consider visiting the flea market that is held every Wednesday on the southern end of the Anjuna beach. Take a test of your bargaining skills at more than 500 stalls, selling various goods in this market. You can also go shopping at the Arpora Baga area where you will find two famous marketplaces - the Mackie’s Night Bazaar and Saturday Night Market.
3. Old Goa - Cathedral and churches are what you will find in Old Goa. Some of the largest churches in Asia are found in Old Goa. The Convent and Church of Saint Francis of Assisi is one of the must see historical buildings in Goa.
4. Wildlife Sanctuaries - If you are an animal lover, you should not miss the wildlife sanctuaries in Goa. The two major options are Bhagwan Mahvir and Cotigao. The best time to visit wildlife sanctuaries in Goa is between October and March.
5. Spice Plantations - Goa’s climate makes it an ideal place for spice plantation. You can join a guided spice tour, which usually includes sightseeing around the farms at Ponda and a spicy lunch.
Mid- November to Mid- February is the best time to visit Goa. If you are planning a Goa tour during this period, be sure book hotels in Goa well in advance.