Goa

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Church of St. Francis of Assisi

Built in the 1661, the Church is dedicated to Saint Francis, whose life was devoted in part to caring for animals and the natural world.

Se Cathedral

Founded in 1619 after almost eight decades of construction, Se Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Asia, and the oldest in Goa. While one of its belltowers was destroyed by lightning, the rest of the building remains in excellent condition; within its halls lie a golden bell, which can be heard all throughout the town of Old Goa, as well as 14 hand-carved altars. Dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, the cathedral was built to commemorate the defeat of the local Islamic rulers at the hands of the Portuguese armies.

Albuquerque Mansion

Near Chapora Fort lies Albuquerque Mansion, an Indo-Portuguese structure which features octagonal towers, and a roof lined with unique, Mangalorean tiles - red clay tiles native to the area and known for their durability. The mansion is named for Don Afonso de Albuquerque, the formidable admiral who built Portugal's overseas empire.

Beaches

Home to 43 miles (70 kilometers) of the best beaches in India, Goa is actually a large state that can loosely be separated into coastal and interior areas. On the coast, prime beaches and beach towns include Calangute, Candolim, Dona Paula, and Palolem.

In particular, Palolem Beach, located on Goa's southern shores, is a popular destination; not only is it less crowded than other beaches, it also offers excellent dining, as well as several nearby islands only a short boat-ride away.

Bom Jesus Basilica

Bom Jesus Basilica was built in 1605 and houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier, who is one of the Patron Saints of the city. Xavier died while at sea and his body was originally taken to Malacca, in present-day Malaysia, before being returned to Goa. His body did not decompose (hence the sainthood), and as such, every 10 years the people of Goa take out his body and put it on display before the public in a casket made of silver hewn in the 1600s.

Cabo de Rama

Built prior to the Portuguese conquest of Goa, Cabo de Rama (Cape Rama) is a hilltop fort that, despite its state of disrepair, is one of the most popular destinations within the state. Because of its strategic location, Cabo de Rama offers panoramic views of the surrounding waters and beaches. Within the fort is the church of San Antonio, which, in contrast to its exterior, is well-preserved and still in use.

Chapora Fort

Visit one of the colonial forts that dot the shores of Goa. Located near Anjuna Beach in the north of Goa, Chapora Fort sits atop a steep, hilly slope. While its walls are crumbling and dilapidated, Chapora offers commanding, sweeping views of the beaches and nearby waters. The climb to the fort is strenuous but rewarding.

Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Built in 1540, the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is the oldest church in Goa. A beautiful, white structure that sits atop a series of stairs, the Church overlooks much of the town of Panjim.

During the feast of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, celebrated on the 8th of December each year, the church is brightly decorated with lights, and hosts a fair.

Church of St. Cajetan

Explore the Church of St. Cajetan. Built in 1700, the church features Corinthian columns, a whitewashed facade and a series of small niches populated by statues of the apostles. Over the years, it was meticulously cared for, and thus remains in a well-preserved, beautiful state.

Diving at Grand Island

A hook-shaped island located near the town of Vasco da Gama, Grand Island features a nice dive site with soft coral and several shipwrecks. While diving here may not compare to more prominent areas in Thailand and Indonesia, it is nonetheless a unique experience.

Fundação Oriente

A worldwide nonprofit foundation dedicated to the promotion of history and culture, the Fundação Oriente is located in the Latin quarter of the town of Panjim, in a striking Indo-Portuguese building restored to its former prominence. The Fundação Oriente features books and culturally-oriented activities which offer Goans and foreign visitors alike a chance to better understand the state's Portuguese roots.

Kite Surfing

Spend time at Morjim Beach, popular with international tourists and ideal for kite surfing as it features strong winds, a wide strand and fairly shallow water. The vicinity has a number of Russian restaurants thanks to immigrants who've made Goa their adopted home.

Naval Aviation Museum

Filled with various vintage aircraft, the Naval Aviation Museum is an excellent cultural alternative for visitors looking for a break from the beach. Of the 13 aircraft on display, most date from the 1950s to the present day; one example, the Fairey Firefly, dates from World War II and is India’s only remaining fighter from the era.

Shiva

The Shree Manguesh Shantadurgai Prasanna Temple was erected in honor of Shiva and is about 13 miles (21 kilometers) from Panaji. It is very popular with both locals and foreign tourists. Afterwards, continue on to Mangeshi, a quiet town offering fine music and culture.