With a coastline of 160 km, the area covered by the state is 1429 square miles. The Western Ghats make the picture more beautiful. The weather stays pleasant because of its presence. Panjim is the capital of Goa. North Goa is famous for its exciting and energetic nightlife, shack and old café, casinos, museums, busy beaches and shacks that serve delicious seafood. South Goa enchants the beauty of Portugal architecture, temples, mosques and wildlife sanctuaries and serene beaches.
Things to do in Goa
There are a total of seventy beaches in the state of Goa. There are a few particular beaches that offer activities like water sports, paragliding, cruise, sailing and surfing. There are many clubs and beach shacks that provide delicious meals, especially seafood. The churches in Goa have a Goan-Portugal architecture and each church has a different significance.
Tourist attractions in Goa
The Dudhsagar Falls, Aguada Fort, Chapora Fort, Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Se Cathedral, Salim Ali bird sanctuary, Our lady of the immaculate conception church and the Goa state museum are very popular tourist spots. There are two 16th century churches namely the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral that are given the title of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
Places to shop in Goa
Anjuna Flea market is located in North Goa. You can buy footwears, souvenirs and artificial jewellery here. The Mapusa Market is the Goan bazaar famous for spices, pickles and Goa’s famous sausages. Panjim Market sells cashew nuts and handicrafts. It is close to Dabolim Airport. Calangute Flea Market is another famous market in Goa. Anything that sells here should be bargained for. Baga Beach is famous for almost everything. It sells almost everything like clothes, goodies, bric-a-brac, trinkets, jewellery, handicrafts and much more.
Best time to visit Goa
The best time to visit Goa is between the months, October and March. Pomp and joy engulf the state during these special months because of the festive season.
Modes of transport
People visiting the state from outside, prefer to rent vehicles. There are a variety of options available. Four-wheelers and two-wheelers are available. But otherwise, local transport is also available. Buses, cabs, auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available here.
Weather in Goa
Goa has moderate weather. The temperature lies between 25°C and 30°C. Summer in March, April, May and October, make the weather a bit humid. Monsoons between June and September are heavy because of the presence of a long coastline facing the Arabian Sea. Winters range from November to February. This is the best time to visit Goa as the temperature does not reach any extreme.
Airport in Goa
The IATA Code of Goa airport is GOI. Dabolim Airport is the only airport in Goa, which flies domestic and international flights. It is 30 km from the capital city, Panaji.