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22 Popular Places of Tourist Interest in North Goa

Without a doubt North Goa is a paradise for Sundowners. Home to some really pretty beaches and peace giving places of worship, North Goa is an essential part of the Goa holiday experience. There is so much that one can indulge into while at this part of the beautiful state that one may never wish to go home.

Nature lovers can choose from a variety of places to call their nest, whereas adventure seekers can freely sway from here to there as vivid water sports await them. Romantic couples can find their moments in the backwaters and isolated places, whereas amigos can hangout together in coolest shacks and groove to some awesome music. Gastronomists can relish the delectable food and the solitude seekers can choose a lonely cliff with a view for themselves and history lovers can shake hands with the past by exploring several architectural marvels.

From pristine beaches and the mesmerising views of sunsets from the beaches, the well-maintained old churches, temples and mosques to plunging waterfalls, surrounding villages and night markets – North Goa is such region that offers something for everyone and most of all a queer peace of mind that is rare to find anywhere else. This piece of article is written to let you know about 23 such places in North Goa where you will rediscover yourself while visiting. So, without wasting too much time, let’s begin our once-in-a-life adventure in North Goa!

List of 22 Best Places to Visit in North Goa

Name of The Places Distance from Panaji (Approx)
Aguada Beach 14.3 km
Baga Beach 17.3 km
Calangute Beach 15.3 km
Goa State Museum 2.5 km
Chapora Fort 20.7 km
Dona Paula 7.2 km
Mangueshi Temple 23.6 km
The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception 2.3 km
The Kala Academy 5.4 km
Arvalem Waterfalls 32.7 km
Backwaters of Chapora River 19.8 km
Anjuna Beach Flea Market 20.6 km
Bicholim 27.6 km
Curlies 21.3 km
Mapusa 14.4 km
Arambol Beach 36.8 km
Vagator Beach 18.6 km
Mandrem Beach 30.6 km
Panaji 0 km
Candolim Beach 11.6 km
Reis Magos Fort 7.0 km
Basilica of Bom Jesus 12.9 km

Also Check Out: Popular Goa Tour Packages

Aguada Beach

Aguada Beach Goa

Aguada Beach is one of the popular tourist attractions in North Goa. Catching the eyes of the beach lovers, the beach’s highlight is the fort that stands on a cliff that faces the Aguada Beach. Pristine and calm, Aguada Beach is perfect to enjoy evening strolls and witness the sun setting down. One can enjoy a variety of watersports here along with hanging out in cafes, getting a massage and shopping for a range of items. Aguada resort that is perched over the cliff is a popular hotel complex and has kept a partial portion of the beach for its guests. An ideal way to enjoy and explore the beach and the rich history of the fort here would be to check yourself in the Aguada Resort.

Activities to Do

  • Water Sports Activities
  • Beach Walks
  • Fort Visits
  • Cafe Visits
  • Shopping
  • Massage Parlour Visits

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Fusion Resort
  • Serenity by the Sea Beach Resort
  • Monarch Suites
  • SummerVille Beach Resort
  • The Mango Inn
  • Ruffles Beach Resort

Best Places to Eat

  • Morisco Restaurant
  • Kokum Kitchen
  • SFX Lounge Bar
  • Banyan Tree
  • Wok & Roll

Also Read: Scuba Diving in Goa

Baga Beach

Baga Beach Goa

Located at the end of the stretch of Calangute Beach, Baga Beach is one of the top tourist places in North Goa to spend fun-filled beach holidays. Baga is a bustling beach as it gives visitors a lot to enjoy and experience. An unbroken line of shacks overlook rows of sun beds that further overlook a jagged line of motorboats often attached to the paragliders; this is an ideal view of the beach in the daytime. Whereas, the nights at Baga are seductive in its own way, with a real crowd that is mostly fun-loving individuals that enjoy drinking and dancing to some cool music; the beach seems to come alive at night. There are several restaurants and bars at Baga and each one is swarming with crowds every night.

Activities to Do

  • Water Sports Activities
  • Nearby sightseeing tour
  • Beach Walks
  • Enjoying Nightlife
  • Cafe Visits
  • Bar Visits
  • Partying

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • The Baga Beach Resort
  • Baga Hideout Resort
  • The Baga Marina Beach Resort and Hotel
  • Baga Fantacia Beach Inn
  • Sinon Baga Retreat

Best Places to Eat

  • Shining Star Beach Shack
  • Jamies Restaurant
  • Go with the Flow Restaurant and Bar
  • Britto’s Restaurant & Bar
  • Drunken Hut Bar and Restaurant

Also Read: Popular Water Sports Tourism in Goa

Calangute Beach

Calangute Beach Goa

The largest and one of the popular beaches in North Goa, Calangute is the contiguous beach of Baga, for the record not even the locals know the separation point of the two beaches. Where Baga is reckoned to be slightly more picturesque, Calangute Beach, the ‘Queen of Goa’ is an adventurer’s getaway. Apart from the fancy crowd that the beach gets covered with during the peak season in December and May, it is more famous for its range of restaurants that serve scrumptious seafood. A beautiful sunset can surely be expected here; also the makeshift market at a distant corner can woo the visitors here. However, in the monsoon from June to September, the waves become rough and swimming is prohibited here.

Activities to Do

  • Swimming
  • Water Sports Activities
  • Food Walk
  • Nature Walk
  • Partying
  • Nearby Sightseeing
  • Watching Sunset

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Fairfield by Marriott Goa Calangute
  • Calangute Beach Resort
  • Hard Rock Hotel Goa
  • Bloom Hotel – Calangute
  • Resort Terra Paraiso

Best Places to Eat

  • Souza Labo
  • Destination One Goa
  • Lovers Corner
  • Ratna Sagar
  • Lacuna Shack

Also Read: Bungee Jumping Adventure in Goa

Goa State Museum

Goa State Museum

Established in 1977, State Archaeological Museum or Goa State Museum is the state’s archaeology museum. Throwing light on the rich history and culture of Goa, this museum is one of the well-maintained places in the state. The museum has a fairly large collection that includes eight thousand relics like rock statues, wood made items, bronzes, artwork, manuscripts, unusual silver coins, numismatic selection, and anthropological collection. There are various Hindu as well as Jain relics and scriptures from the 4th to 8th centuries as well. There are a total of 14 galleries in the museum that showcase around 8,000 relics of all Indian regions. It is indeed one of the best places to explore in Goa and once you explore it completely, you’ll find out why.

Activities to Do

  • Explore the history of Goa
  • Learning about the culture of Goa
  • Gallery Visits
  • Nearby Sightseeing

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • The Menino Regency
  • Hotel Arcadia
  • Hotel Sona Royale
  • Regenta Inn
  • Bambolim Beach Resort

Best Places to Eat

  • Clube Nacional Restaurant
  • Fig n Olive
  • Beach Grill
  • Zest Cafe and Kitchen
  • Sundowner Bar

Also Read: Must Visit Museums in Goa

Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort Goa

Built in 1617 by a Muslim ruler Adil Shah, Chapora Fort was the watch post of the border for the portuguese and many rulers. Today, the fort lies in ruins; however, it is an incredible vantage point and offers a gorgeous view of Vagator in the south, Chapora River and Pernem in the north along with the Arabian Sea in the west. Though the fort is in ruins today, one can still see the two tunnels which served as emergency escapes for the Portuguese till the seashore and the bank of Chapora River. The Portuguese are believed to have ruled over Chapora Fort for more than 150 years. For visitors, this must-see fort that lies in ruins is a great backdrop for photographs and the view from here is undoubtedly scenic.

Activities to Do

  • Photography
  • Exploring the Fort
  • Fishing
  • Food Walk
  • Sunbathing
  • Shopping

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Living Room Goa
  • Leoney Resort Goa
  • Shertor Villa
  • Jungle Hostel
  • Helinda Hostel

Best Places to Eat

  • Sunset Bar and Restaurant
  • Disco Valley
  • Nyan Bar
  • 9 Bar
  • Ferms Bar and Restaurant

Also Read: Motorized Paragliding in Goa

Dona Paula

Dona Paula Goa

Situated on the suburbs of Panaji, Dona Paula is one of the popular tourist attractions in Goa. It is recognized as the home of the National Institute of Oceanography. In fact, it is a hub for numerous accommodation options in Goa. It is a hammered shaped land that divides the estuaries of Zuari and Mandovi River. The Dona Paula monument is located on a small islet, which is connected with the mainland by a small bridge and a quay. Also on the islet is the Belvedere, which is a Greco – Roman type of structure, from where one can view the Arabian Sea and the River Zuari. Dona Paula has a beautiful stretch of sea that remains crowded; however, during the monsoon the stretch is calm and becomes a lovely haunt for romance.

Activities to Do

  • Sightseeing to Dona Paula Jetty and Suicide Point
  • Explore the National Institute of Oceanography
  • Food Tour
  • Photography

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Prainha Resort
  • Ginger Goa, Dona Paula
  • The Hawaii Comforts
  • Casa Fortuna
  • Sandalwood Hotel & Suites

Best Places to Eat

  • Harbour Grill at Bay 15
  • Watermark
  • Tiffin Xpress
  • Sea Pebble Restaurant and Bar
  • Goan Delicacy

Also Read: Hot Air Ballooning in Goa

Mangueshi Temple

Mangueshi Temple Goa

Reckoned to be one of the largest temples in Goa, Mangueshi shrine is situated in Mangueshi Village in Priol. The main deity in the temple is that of God Manguesh, who is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Shiva. Unarguably, one of the best places to visit in North Goa, Mangueshi Temple is 450-year-old that stands out for its simple and yet exquisitely elegant structure. Built in 1890, the temple consists of several domes and balustrades. There even seats a prominent Nandi Bull and a beautiful seven-story octagonal deepstambh (lamp tower), stands inside the temple complex. The temple also has a magnificent water tank, which is believed to be the oldest part of the temple. There is a spacious assembly hall which can accommodate 500 people at a time. Chandeliers of the nineteenth century adorn the temple. The annual festivals include Rama Navami, Akshaya Tritiya, Anant Vritotsava, Navaratri, Dussehra, Diwali, Magha Purnima Festival (Jatrotsav) and Mahashivratri. Magha Purnima Festival begins on Magha Shukla Saptami and ends on Magha Poornima are celebrated in the temple with much pomp and show.

Activities to Do

  • Seek blessings
  • Explore the temple
  • Explore the surrounding
  • Sightseeing
  • Photography

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Mahalasa Hotel
  • The Old Heritage Inn
  • Mahalasa Guest House
  • Shivaranjani Residency
  • Hotel Surya Palace

Best Places to Eat

  • PC’s Food Court
  • Shantadurga Bhojnalay
  • Shri Mangesh Udupi Restaurant
  • Funtime Family Restaurant
  • Shiv Darshan Restaurant

Also Read: Pilgrimage Tourism in Goa

The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Goa

One of the top visiting places, built in 1541, this is reckoned to be the first church in Goa. Seeing a complete renovation in 1619, The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception is a riot of heavy ornamentation. Believed to be a fine example of relatively simple architecture, the church still boasts of two flanking altars that on the left dedicated to Jesus Crucified and the right one dedicated to Our Lady of Rosary. A great deal of carvings can be seen on each side of the marble statues of St. Peter and St. Paul. The main altar is that of St. Francis Xavier; his glass encased statue is positioned centrally on the reredos. A large number of visitors come to visit this place of worship in Goa and indeed you should visit this religious place to witness some excellent architecture.

Activities to Do

  • Capture Panaji’s views from the Church
  • Seek blessings
  • Explore the architecture
  • Watch sunset
  • Shopping

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Hotel Sona Royale
  • The Menino Regency
  • Hotel Arcadia
  • Mateus Boutique Hotel
  • Ginger Goa

Best Places to Eat

  • Petisco Kitchen & Bar
  • Casa Bhonsle Restaurant & Bar
  • George Restaurant & Bar
  • Cafe Ritz Restaurant & Bar
  • Texas Restaurant & Bar

Also Read: Popular Christian Pilgrimage Sites in Goa

The Kala Academy

The Kala Academy Goa

Situated in Panjim, Kala Academy is a fine acting institute in Goa. It is in a way a cultural heritage of the state that has produced a large number of artists that excel in the field of art and culture. The Academy is an apex body to develop Music, Dance, Drama, Fine Art, Folk Art, Literature etc. and to promote cultural unity of Goa. It has a distinctive character of imparting training, also on a regular basis festivals, competitions, exhibitions, workshops, seminars, discussions and debates, performances, and other activities for preservation of traditional art forms are organised here. One of the top things to do here is to explore the State Art Exhibition and to see performances that happen every now and then here.

Activities to Do

  • Take an acting class
  • Explore exhibitions
  • Attend Festivals
  • Indulge in different forms of art

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Vivenda Rebelo
  • Hotel Arcadia
  • Regenta Inn, Palacio de Goa
  • Campal Beach Resort
  • Sudaze Guesthouse

Best Places to Eat

  • The Fisherman’s Wharf Panjim
  • Soul Curry, Panjim
  • Bombil Restaurant
  • The Foody Goans
  • The Red Ginger

Also Read: Adventure Tourism in Goa

Arvalem Waterfalls

Arvalem Waterfalls Goa

Situated in Sanquelim, Arvalem Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful pieces of nature that one can enjoy in Goa. The fall is located at a short distance from Bicholim, one of the must-visit places to add on your North Goa sightseeing tour. Arvalem also known as Harvalem comes to life in the monsoon season. It drops down from the height of 50 metres and offers quite a view to relish. Visitors can also explore the nearby Arvalem Buddhist Caves as well as Rudreshwar temple. The best way to reach here is by taking a taxi or on foot.

Activities to Do

  • Hiking
  • Photography
  • Sightseeing
  • Eating snacks
  • Explore the greenery

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Wildernest Nature Resort
  • Mayem Lake View
  • Virat Square Garden
  • Rock Valley Goa
  • Swapnagandha Resort

Best Places to Eat

  • Family Food Court
  • JK Restaurant
  • Celebrations
  • Kamal Restaurant Goa
  • Green Valley Restaurant

Also Read: Must Visit Waterfalls in Goa

Backwaters of Chapora River

Backwaters of Chapora River Goa

One of the ideal ways to enjoy holidays in Goa is to sail in the houseboat on the backwaters of Chapora River. By taking the houseboat, one can enjoy the rustic charms of Goa. Watch the traditional fishermen catch fish in their dugout wooden canoes and see the beautiful swaying coconut and palm trees fringing the water body, offering an ideal site that any nature lover would adore. The backwaters of Goa are truly scenic and thus are a must visit. One can choose to hire a boat for a day and enjoy the sail, also one of the best things to do is to stay in the houseboats and relish some quality time with a loved one.

Activities to Do

  • Staying in a houseboat
  • Food Tours
  • Nature Sightseeing
  • Explore the villages on the bank of backwaters
  • Kayaking
  • Boating

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Laid Back Waters Houseboat
  • Red Crab Eco Resort
  • Olaulim Backyards
  • Indy Waterfront Resort
  • Floating Paradise Houseboat

Best Places to Eat: Dine on Cruise options available with stay.

Also Read: Dudhsagar Waterfalls in Goa

Anjuna Beach Flea Market

Anjuna Beach Flea Market

Anjuna Beach Flea Market is a small carnival in itself. Held every Wednesday from 9 AM to almost 8 PM from October to April, this market is visited by expats to Indian tourists to locals alike! A happening flea market, where one can find a lot of activities till late night. The market evolved in the 1960s, when hippies headed to Anjuna for trance music and parties. Initially, the market was more like a garage sale, where hippies would sell stuff in a bid to earn some extra money. However, the current market is no less than a fashion street, where one can find great souvenirs, fashionable clothes, and lovely artefacts. Food stalls are also a part of the market as well, where one can enjoy some authentic Goan food.

Activities to Do

  • Shopping
  • Eating authentic Goan Food
  • Enjoying nightlife
  • Partying
  • Street Photography

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Craft Hostels
  • The Funky Monkey Hostel
  • Bricks & Bamboo Hostel
  • Sea Princess Guesthouse
  • Janet and John’s Beach Resort

Best Places to Eat

  • Sun & Sand Bar ‘N’ Restaurant
  • Flour Power Bakeria
  • Kailasha Cafe
  • Pisco by The Beach
  • Five Five

Also Read: Cruising in Goa

Bicholim

Bicholim - Mayem Lake Goa

Apart from its above-mentioned waterfalls (Aravalem), Bicholim is altogether one of the popular destinations in North Goa for sure. Undoubtedly scenic, it boasts of a beautiful lake called Mayem and the vast countryside that is dotted with cashew trees. It also has some historic Hindu temples like Saptakoteshwar Temple and one of the oldest mosques in Goa. Mayem Lake is located east of the market town of Mapusa; it is amidst the unspoilt countryside full of sleepy villages. The lake sits on wooded shores in low hills and is rich in birdlife. The distinct places here are the opencast iron ore mines that add to the already distinguished features of Goa. The best way to visit Bicholim is by taking a ferry route from Ribander to Chorao with Madel being the place for landing.

Activities to Do

  • Hiking
  • Temple Visits
  • Nature Walks
  • Birdwatching
  • Village Walks
  • Cruising
  • Photography

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Vamoose Goa Guest House
  • The Island Sanctuary – A Village Secret
  • The Island Pool Villa
  • Mercure Goa Devaaya Resort
  • Redhomex Glass Glow

Best Places to Eat

  • Top Inn Town
  • Adarsh Bar & Restaurant
  • Hotel Shanbhag
  • Cafe Saachi
  • Sufikhana

Curlies

Curlies Goa - Sunset

Probably one of the most happening shacks in Goa, Curlies is a great place to visit if you are in North Goa. Located on Anjuna beach strip, Curlies has become one of the prominent landmarks in Goa. What started as a beach shack, Curlies is now a two-floor complex with restaurants, bars, internet café, sea view veranda, tea house, indoor club that can host up to 500 people. Various water-sports and other activities like parasailing, kayaking, banana boat ride, dolphin trip, fishing trip, Grand Island trips are also conducted from the Curlies Shack. And ofcourse the mouth-watering seafood, cheap beer and excellent music are the reasons why you must visit Curlies in Goa.

Activities to Do

  • Watersports Activities
  • Food and Drink Tasting
  • Island Trips
  • Fishing Trip
  • Dolphin Spotting
  • Partying

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Classic Studios Curlies
  • Curlies Zululand Cottages
  • Meraden La Oasis
  • Passions de Goa
  • Xaviers Guest House

Best Places to Eat

  • Curlies Beach Shack
  • Shiva Valley
  • Manuel’s Shack
  • Kailasha Cafe
  • Five Five
  • Pisco by The Beach

Also Read: Sea Rafting in Goa

Mapusa

Mapusa Church

Mapusa is believed to be the largest town in northern Goa. Like other major towns, Mapusa is a hub for travellers and locals alike. One has to cross Mapusa in order to visit a number of places in northern Goa, whereas the local crowd is seen visiting this place due to its weekly Friday market. The place does not have many tourist attractions but it has a fair number of places of worship and few monuments that are worth visiting. The most famous places here are Shree Dev Bodgeshwar Sansthan, Church of Our Lady of Miracles, Maruti Temple and Colonial era Municipal Building.

Activities to Do

  • Temple Visits
  • Church Visits
  • Shopping
  • Exploring the town
  • Sightseeing

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Sharayu One
  • Boshan Hotels
  • Motel La Grandeur
  • Hotel Priti International
  • Saiesh International Hotel

Best Places to Eat

  • Spice Goa
  • Salt Bar and Restaurant
  • Mojigao
  • Andron Restaurant
  • Lioloco The Bistro

Also Read: Bird Watching in Goa

Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach Goa

Arambol Beach has always stayed a place of interest in northern Goa. A paradise for budget stayers, Arambol is often recalled as the home to hippies. However, this cool place has seen changes in terms of the crowd and people who wish to stay here over the years but one thing has remained permanent and that is the uber vibe of this place. The beach is often crowded with some cool people who are seen performing something or the other in the evening. Even the lodging stays relatively cheap and that’s why Arambol stays top of the list of places to visit in Goa for all kinds of travellers. Staying here or not is completely one’s wish; however, spending a lively evening here is a must!

Activities to Do

  • Enjoying evening performances
  • Sunbathing
  • Beach Walks
  • Sightseeing
  • Photography

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Grand Vatika Resort
  • Arambol Plaza Beach Resort
  • Maitree
  • GoYm Resort
  • Omkar Guest House

Best Places to Eat

  • Cafe Maitree
  • Double Dutch
  • Laughing Buddha
  • Shimons Falafel
  • Fellini Pizza’s

Also Read: Complete Goa Beach Information

Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach Goa

Vagator is located about 19 Kms from Panaji in Bardez taluka. The beach stretches about 30 kms along the Arabian Sea. During the tourist season, Vagotor becomes the favourite venue for midnight parties in Goa. Large groups of long-stay backpackers and party people religiously set up camp here for months every season. The beach has red cliffs that are indeed a distinct mark in the beauty of the place. The beach is fairly divided into parts, if you face the sea, the part on your right is called North Vagator Beach or Big Vagator and the left side is known as Ozran Beach or Little Vagator Beach. Famed for its rave culture, this beach destination is one of the prettiest beaches in northern Goa and thus makes an ideal place to visit.

Activities to Do

  • Enjoy rave parties
  • Sunbathing
  • Beach Walks
  • Watching sunset
  • Watersports activities
  • Food Tours

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • La Gulls Court
  • Goan Clove
  • Leoney Resort
  • Jolly Jolly Lester
  • Alcove Resort Goa

Best Places to Eat

  • Disco Valley
  • Mezcal Restaurant
  • Tin Tin Bar & Restaurant
  • Mango Tree Bar & Restaurant
  • Fusion Vagator

Also Read: Sinquerim Beach Information

Mandrem Beach

Mandrem Beach Goa

Reckoned to be one of the best kept secrets of North Goa, located between Arambol and Ashvem, Mandrem Beach is a must visit for solitude seekers. The beach is situated about 21 kms from Panaji and is divided into two parts; one is called Junas and the other Ashvem. Laid back and languid, Mandrem Beach is ideal for yoga, meditation and ayurveda practices and this is what makes this place unlike others. It is absolutely a place to find true bliss while swimming against the waves from October to March. Most accommodation, dining and alternative therapy options can be found along the narrow beach-access road, or on the scintillating sands themselves.

Activities to Do

  • Swimming
  • Yoga, Meditation and Ayurveda Centre Visits
  • Beach Walks
  • Watching Sunset
  • Tasting seafood

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Sea View Resorts
  • Goan Cafe n Resort
  • Stone Wood Resort
  • Molly’s Nest
  • Regenta Place

Best Places to Eat

  • Shimons Falafel
  • La Plage
  • Cafe NU
  • Chique Shanti
  • Shantaram Raw Vegan Cafe

Also Read: Colva Beach Travel Guide

Panaji

Panaji Goa

Panaji, which is also known as Panjim is probably one of the most laidback capitals in India. Overlooking the Mandovi River, Panaji is a perfect place to see the vivid reflections from the culture and traditions of Goa. It is one of those places where the maximum Portuguese influence can be witnessed. Its old Latin Quarter still offers a glance of Portuguese lifestyle, it is during the daylight the houses glow yellow and their purple doors compliment them. The ochre-coloured mansions with terracotta-tiled roofs, wrought iron balconies and arched oyster-shell windows add more charm to this capital city. Panaji is one of the best places in Goa to enjoy solitude, peace of mind and culture as unlike any other capital in India. It is free from the maddening rush, the polluted air and the hustle and bustle. A day or two in Panaji is mandatory for a delightful Goa vacation experience.

Activities to Do

  • Temple Visits
  • Church Visits
  • Fort Visits
  • Museum Visits
  • Food Tours
  • Market Visits
  • Town Exploring
  • Enjoying Nightlife at markets and casinos

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Vivanta Goa
  • The Crown Goa
  • Hotel Campal
  • Ginger Dona Paula
  • Varanda Do Mar

Best Places to Eat

  • Cafe al Fresco
  • Black Sheep Bistro
  • Peep Kitchen
  • Bombil Restaurant
  • Blackmarket Goa

Also Read: Majorda Beach Tourism Info

Candolim Beach

Candolim Beach Goa

If you are heading towards North Goa from Panaji or Panjim, the capital town of Goa, the first beach you will come across is Candolim Beach, where you can witness the actual taste of Goa. The beach is also famous for hosting India’s biggest electronic music and dance festival, the Sunburn Festival. The festival is the main eyecatcher of Goa in winter that attracts flocks of tourists from all over the world. It is organised by a Media and Communication Company, Percept that brings famous artists on the stage. Apart from the festival in December, Candolim offers a peaceful environment to adore quality time with your loved ones. Never miss the chance to drink feni in a taverna in Candolim that is made of cashew or coconut.

Activities to Do

  • Attending Sunburn Festival
  • Water Sports Activities
  • Beach Walks
  • Sunbathing
  • Food & Drink Tours

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Time & Leisure Hotels
  • Townhouse OAK 7 Spices
  • Coco Homes
  • Santana Beach Resort
  • Marquis Beach Resort

Best Places to Eat

  • Toy Beach Club
  • Azura – The Grill Fish
  • Stringfellos
  • Spice & Bakes
  • Fifteen Candolim

Also Read: Patnem Beach Travel Guide

Reis Magos Fort

Reis Magos Fort Goa

Another interesting point of attraction in North Goa, Reis Magos Fort is named after Reis Magos, a village on the bank of River Mandovi in Badrez. Around eight-kilometre-drive from Panjim, the capital town of Goa through narrow roads lined by coconut trees will take you to the fort. From the village you have to trek a little to reach Reis Magos Fort, which has been standing as an important part of Goan history for years. Built in 1493 as a military outpost by the Adil Shahi Sultanate, the building originally came to existence as a fort in 1551 by the Portuguese. It was once a prison where prisoners of wars used to be kept. You will also find holes on the floors in a room upstairs from where the entrance can be seen. The guide will tell you the stories of how the soldiers used to pour hot oil on intruders from the holes. Not far from the fort, there is a church, Reis Magos Church, which you can explore next.

Activities to Do

  • Explore the fort
  • Learn its history
  • Village Walks
  • Church Visits
  • Seek Blessings

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Vivenda Rebelo
  • Ahilya by The Sea
  • Surya Kiran Heritage Hotel
  • Vivanta Goa, Panaji
  • Goa Marriott Resort & Spa

Best Places to Eat

  • Copperleaf Porvorim
  • Himalaya Bar & Restaurant
  • Adelaide
  • Spice Goa
  • Soi

Also Read: Chapora Fort Information

Basilica of Bom Jesus

Basilica of Bom Jesus Goa

A renowned Catholic church, which is the oldest one in Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus is famous for its astonishing baroque architecture. A site of World Heritage declared by UNESCO, Basilica of Bom Jesus was built in 1594 and houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier and St. Ignatius Loyola, the founders of the Society of Jesus. Besides the marvellous architecture, another astounding fact of the church is the remains of the founders, which are still in good condition. Located around 10 km from Panjim Town, the facade of the church showcases triangular roofing with carvings of IHS (Jesus, Saviour of Men). Basilica of Bom Jesus is the only church in Old Goa which has not been plastered outside.

Activities to Do

  • Seek blessings
  • Explore Church
  • Learn about its history
  • Nearby sightseeing

Nearest Accommodation Options

  • Old Goa Residency
  • Mahi Guest House
  • Shoolin Homestay
  • Serene Waters Homestay
  • The Fern Kadamba

Best Places to Eat

  • Viva Goa
  • Adlem Goi
  • Master Chef
  • Coconut Grove
  • Feliz

Also Read: Se Cathedral Church Goa Information

If you have already been to North Goa, do let us know if what we wrote is true about it in the comment box below. We would love to listen to your story. But if you haven’t yet visited Goa, may this blog be the source of motivation for you! Also, if you seek our help in planning a trip to Goa, we at Tour My India would be more than happy to do so. You can call us at +91-9212553107 or drop us an email at info@tourmyindia.com with queries. At Tour My India, we design and create tour packages in India that fit every budget and interest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to visit in North Goa at night?

Some of the best places to visit in North Goa at night are:

  • Anjuna Beach and Anjuna Flea Market
  • Baga Beach
  • Morjim Beach
  • Curlies Beach Shack
  • Tito’s Street
  • Casino Royale
  • Casino Pride
  • Silent Nose Club

Which are the top places to visit in North Goa for couples?

Some of the top tourist places in North Goa to visit are:

  • Aguada Beach
  • Candolim Beach
  • Calangute Beach
  • Anjuna Beach
  • Vagator
  • Morjim
  • Baga Beach
  • Panaji
  • Arambol

How many minimum days are required to explore the best of North Goa tour?

A minimum of two to three days are required to explore the best of North Goa tour.

What are the best places to eat and party in North Goa?

Some of the best places to eat and party in North Goa are:

  • Curlies Beach Shack
  • Soro - The Village Pub
  • Club Tito
  • Cafe Mambo
  • Cafe Lilliput
  • UV Bar
  • Guru Bar
  • Pinakin Beach Cafe

Which are some top things to do for tourists in North Goa?

Some of the top activities to do in North Goa are:

  • Beach Walks
  • Scuba Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Dolphin Spotting
  • Cruising
  • Backwaters Kayaking
  • Hiking
  • Church Visits
  • Museum Visits
  • Shopping
  • Partying
  • Photography

What are the popular must visit beaches in North Goa?

Some of the popular must-visit beaches in North Goa are:

  • Anjuna Beach
  • Baga Beach
  • Calangute Beach
  • Candolim Beach
  • Arambol Beach
  • Vagator Beach

How can you reach North Goa?

Goa has its own airdome which is well connected by domestic flights with major cities in India. Located around 26 kilometres from Panaji, the Dabolim Airport also receives international flights during the peak season. Moreover, you can also reach North Goa by availing a train to Madgaon Railway Station from where Panaji is around 41 kilometres.

You can also reach here by road taking a public or private bus from cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore and Hampi. Lastly, one can also opt to reach North Goa by sea. Several cruise rides are available between Mumbai and Goa that function between October to May. However, for cruise rides, you have to book the ticket way in advance.

Published: 23 Dec, 2022

About the author

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.