7 Cool Things To Do In Goa, India

It’s no wonder the serene shores of Goa, India attract some two million visitors each year. With ample beautiful beaches, swaying palms, a laid-back vibe and a unique fusion of Indian and Western cultures, there’s certainly a lot to love about this southern Indian city. But even though Goa is a well known to both backpacking partygoers and high-end luxury travelers alike, there remain plenty of unspoiled corners and secret hidden gems to discover.

We recommend slowing down and going off-the-beaten-track to fully experience all that Goa has to offer; here are seven cool things to get you started!

Bargain At The Markets

Photo by Spyros Petrogiannis via Flickr

One of the best ways to pass an afternoon in Goa is by bartering at the local markets. The Wednesday Anjuna Flea Market is always a good bet, with a myriad of clothes, jewelry and other souvenirs on offer. The market is also a great place to get a feel for the “hippie” vibe Goa was once legendary for.

If you prefer to do your shopping by night, don’t miss the sprawling Saturday Night Market in Arpora. Here you’ll find everything from spices to kashmiri carpets to local teas. The market also features global cuisine and (occasionally) live music. 

Explore Panjim

Laid out along the banks of the Mandovi River, Panjim is a must-see if you want to understand the legacy the Portuguese left in Goa. Take the time to explore the old quarters of Fontianhas and Sao Tome where the alleyways are lined with Portuguese-style houses, which lie in stark contrast to the brightly colored Hindu temples just a short walk away. You won’t find the hustle and bustle prevalent in most other Indian cities, making Panjim a refreshing escape.

Marvel At The Basilica Bom Jesus

Photo by Amit Rawat via Flickr

It can be an odd experience the first time you stumble upon this elaborate Christian church, as India is a country where the majority of the population is Hindu. For this reason alone, the Basilica Bom Jesus is a must-see.

The Basilica is one of the oldest churches in India and is elaborately decorated with a floor of marble, inlaid with precious stones and elaborate gilded altars. The UNESCO World Heritage Site also holds the body of St. Francis Xavier.

Try The Local Cuisine

The local food in Goa is delicious and flavorful, typically featuring curries, coconut milk and spices, often with a Portuguese twist. Our favorite dish is probably the fish curry rice. The signature dish is tangy and spicy and best washed down with a sweet lime soda or Kingfisher beer. You do have to be careful which street stalls you choose in India; a good rule of thumb is to look for vendors that are packed with locals and where they prepare the food fresh in front of you.

Go To The Beach

Photo by Vikas Rana via Flickr

You can’t visit Goa without leaving plenty of time for a sandy escape! And with 20+ beaches to choose from, it’s an easy obligation to fulfill. If you’re looking for somewhere quiet and secluded, then we recommend Mandrem Beach. The white sand beach is still relatively hidden, though more and more people are starting to discover its wonders.

Another long strip of pristine beach with relatively few tourists is Agonda Beach—you won’t get any cell reception here, so it’s perfect for those who want to unplug. Palolem Beach, on the other hand, is one of the most popular beaches. Restaurants and tourists line its shores, but despite its popularity, the crescent moon beach is still considered one of Goa’s most beautiful.

Photograph The Dudhasgar Falls

Photo by Victoria Imeson via Flickr

One of the highest waterfalls in India (and amongst the hundred highest in the world), the four-tiered Dudhasgar Falls rise to a height of 306 meters. The waterfall is at its fullest during the monsoon months of June to September; during the dry season it is much less impressive. Be advised that the waterfall is an extremely popular spot, both with foreign and local travelers alike. If you are keen to see the cascades, try to arrive as early as possible.

Visit The Ashiyana Retreat Center

It would be a shame to visit India and not take part in a yoga class or two! Though we haven’t been, the Ashiyana Retreat Center is a tropical, well-known and respected retreat on Mandrem Beach. There are a variety of yoga and meditation packages available for all levels, as well as numerous detox programs, spa treatments and workshops.

There’s plenty more to see and do in Goa, provided you have the time and adventurous spirit to seek them out! As one last final tip, we recommend renting a scooter (if you have experience driving one) to fully explore the region. You’ll have all the best beaches and experiences easily at your fingertips!