Top 10 things to do in Goa, India

So everyone has been telling you that you HAVE to visit Goa, you have finally booked you first trip, to the West Indian coastal paradise, you have booked your accommodation which looks absolutely stunning, and now you just don’t know what to expect or what you can do when you get there. Lucky for you we are here to help, with a guide of the top 10 things to do in Goa.

 1, Beaches

Goa is known for long stretches of coastline and is definitely a seventh heaven for beach lovers. With a collection of beautiful beaches, you can spend your day relaxing on the beach with a typical Goan cocktail or an ice cold Kingfisher beer, sunbathe and soak in the sun with the stunning panoramic views, or you can swim in the beautiful sea or even have a go at some water sports.  Some of the best beaches to visit include Anjuna Beach, Candolim Beach, Benaulim Beach, Colva beach, Calangute Beach, and many many more.

2, Wildlife

There are a variety of wildlife sanctuaries in Goa, you are able to experience a taste of wild nature at its very best. One of the most well known nature preserves would have to be Salim Ali bird sanctuary, where you will find many different types of birds and animals, including species such as the Mud Skipper and Black Drongo. Bondla Reserve is a mini zoo where you can see deer in their natural habitat, beautiful botanical gardens and stunning rose gardens which attract people throughout the year. The best wildlife sactuary in India can be found in Goa and is a MUST while
on your trip to Goa, this is Mandovi Zuari reserve, you will be able to see a large number of fish, birds, snakes and if your lucky you might even be able to spot some jackals and crocodiles. Also you can find various varieties of mangrove which makes for a unique experience in itself.

3, Sightseeing

With so much history in Goa there are many tourist sites which will make this destination all the more inspiring. Visit the many churches which are studded around Goa, you can witness the intense religious history of the land. With a history of several rulers, it is a little wonder that you can find forts in Goa, even though there are a limited number, these forts are full of adventure. If you are looking for a calm and soothing retreat, there are a few lakes and waterfalls in the interior region of Goa, away from the coast. When in India it is always nice to visit the beautiful temples, Goa boasts some of the earliest known temples which go back over thousands of years. These temples have been well maintained and definitely deserve a visit.

4, Water sports

Goa offers a large variety of water sports including windsurfing, sailing, parasailing, water skiing, banana boats, canoeing and scuba diving. You can also ride out on a water scooter, enjoy some deep adventure fishing or enjoy a laid-back sail on Paddleboat Mayem Lake which is absolutely beautiful.

5, Shopping

Enjoy a complete shopping experience in Goa, with all the unique and splendorous crafts, souvenirs which include terracotta, brassware, crochet, shell work, bamboo work, carved items and many other items which will make this shopping experience one to remember. The Saturday Night Markets have hundreds of superb stalls, lots of mouth watering food and live music to enjoy while you shop. It’s definitely worth a visit.

6, Food and Drink

Goa offers some of the most delicious, mouth watering cuisine. Spicy dishes which include coconut, pepper, cashew nuts, fresh seafood and chutneys and many other varieties are transformed into gourmet delights. Goa is well known for its fresh seafood, as well as non-vegetable dishes to suit different tastes, there are also many dishes which would suit vegetarians. Goan cuisine proves to be hot, sharp and pierce nostrils with all the exotic flavours. Nothing beats an ice cold Kingfisher beer at sunset, or if you prefer a traditional Goan cocktail which typically is made using Feni which is the most famous and popular liquors in Goa.

7, Aryuveda

With so many spas and treatment centres in Goa, find time for yourself and give your mind, body and soul a rest. Enjoy luxury massages, and a large variety of other relaxation treatments. The Aryuvedic treatments in Goa ensure their focal attention on diet, meditation, yoga and they can also act as corrective and preventive procedures to enhance your health and well being.

8, Nightlife

Goa is a hot spot to enjoy nightlife, there are events in the dead of the night thanks to the many pubs, bars, clubs, hotels and casinos, not forgetting the parties which get under way at many of the beaches. Rave Parties, which can be tested in Goa is one of the best things to do in Goa, when it comes to music, dancing and having fun. Nightlife is an essential feature of Goa and the electrifying atmosphere will have you soaked in all the fun and frolic that the nightlife in Goa has to offer.

9, Cruises

Goa is famous for its cruises, river cruises and sea cruises in Goa offer a rich experience of cruising. With a lot of options available, you can choose the one that suits your wallet. Exciting river cruises, exotic cruises and a fabulous sunset cruise shipping you to another world, as enthusiasts can also choose Full Moon Cruise or enjoy the charming night cruise experience.

10, Attractions

The Panaji Goa State Museum is an eclectic collection of over 8,000 items. The state museum collection includes Hindu and Jain sculptures, wooden objects, bronze paintings from all over India, manuscripts and much more, if you like history, you will appreciate this museum. Visit the villages where, Goa delight visitors and other attractions of Goa Carnival, which is fun until the very end, as the carnival brings the joy of all, as you can eat, drink and be merry, if you happen to be a part of Goa Carnival