can you travel to goa now

A Complete 7-day Itinerary and Guide to Goa for First Timers

This guide to Goa is perfect for those of you planning to travel there for the first time, as it talks about the best time to visit, how to reach Goa, popular beaches in North and South Goa, where to stay for your first visit, and how to get around. Also included is Goa itinerary for 7 days.

Goa is a tropical paradise with endless white and golden-sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees. This small state in the southwestern region of India is unlike any other, with its laid-back culture balanced by its thriving nightlife. But that’s not all there is to Goa. It is a land of soothing bike rides, fascinating world heritage sites, plush resorts, friendly hostels, delectable seafood, and various forms of spiritual practices. It is definitely the most popular destination in India amongst Indian and international travellers (after the Taj Mahal, of course), as it has something for everyone.

Guide to Goa For First Timers

What is the best time to visit goa.

March-May : These are the summer months when Goa gets unbearably muggy, with temperatures touching 40ºC (104ºF).

June – September : During these monsoon months, Goa becomes lush green. It is relatively quieter than other months. Most shacks are temporary structures that are dismantled during this period and water sports aren’t going on. But this is a charming time in Goa overall, with plenty of restaurants and activities to keep you entertained.

November–February : Winter is the peak season here. Goa, being a coastal area, is balmy while the inland parts of the country go through typical winter temperatures. The sun is always out and the cool sea breeze blows through from time to time. December is the busiest month as Goa hosts the Annual Sunburn Music Festival, which attracts people from all over. Plus, people flock in to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s holidays at this party destination.

Verdict: For your first time in Goa, you should visit during the season, Mid-October to Mid-March , so that you can see all that Goa has to offer. The shacks will be open, beach stays will be available in South Goa and the weather will be pleasant. However, the prices will be higher than any other time of the year.

How to reach Goa?

Goa’s international airport is situated at Dabolim, near Vasco Da Gama, and there is also a new airport in North Goa, Manohar International Airport. You can land at either of these and hire a taxi to your hotel/hostel.

While most cities in India have an organised cab service like Uber and Ola, Goa has  GoaMiles  ( now also an app) that can pass for Goa’s very own Uber. We’ve used it a few times and found cabs at a good rate. You can also opt for the taxis lined up on the road outside the airport (be prepared to bargain and ensure to set prices before the start of the trip) or prepaid taxi stands at airports that have a set price. You can always ask at your accommodation if they provide airport transfers but these might turn out to be more expensive.

Local buses in Goa are significantly cheaper but also very inconvenient, as you would have to change multiple vehicles to get to your destination in Goa. Use the local bus only if you’re on a super low budget.

Bus, Cab and Car

You can also opt to reach Goa by overnight bus or cab from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad in India. If travelling by bus, Mapusa would be your de-boarding point for North Goa , Panjim for Central , and Margao/Canacona for South .

You can book your bus via Redbus .

We’ve driven it down from Pune a few times now and once from Hyderabad. The road is full of potholes as you get closer to Goa. But you’ll cross ghats and waterfalls. It is beautiful!

Goa is also well connected by train to the rest of India. The main train stations are Vasco da Gama (central), Margao (south) and Thivim (north) .

Which area to stay in Goa?

Goa is divided into North and South Goa, with its capital, Panaji (popularly known as Panjim), located around the centre. For your first time in Goa, it can be confusing to decide where to stay, as different corners of the state offer different experiences. In this itinerary, you’ll be staying in both North Goa and South Goa .

Baga, Calangute, Candolim or Anjuna : This is a good option for your first time in Goa, as the area is very central, so all places to see would be close to you.

However, please note that these beaches aren’t best, as they’re the most popular in Goa. Every Tom Dick and Harry visit these beaches so the crowd is also such. However, your purpose of staying around this area is different. You’re here to enjoy the water sports, the parties, the food and maybe even shop a little.

A little further north is Anjuna. While it is not the best location to stay for this itinerary, this area has come up a lot in the past few years, so you’ll find a lot of  must-visit restaurants in Goa  around this area.

Stay Options:

Casa Cenica (2BHK in Arpora) Onastay  (2BHK in Candolim) Casa De Mezzanine (Beautiful 1BHK in Arpora) Jade by CasaFlip (2BHK in Anjuna) Beach Villa With Private pool (luxury) Canary By CasaFlip (1BHK in Anjuna).

Palolem or Agonda: For your first trip to South Goa, you should stay at one of these two beaches and explore other beaches nearby. These beaches have restaurants but still maintain a relaxed vibe so you can enjoy time on the beach. Remember that you should only stay in South Goa beaches beach from October to March, as the huts and shacks are mostly dismantled before the monsoons and built back up when the monsoons get over. Click to  know more about South Goa Beaches .

Stay Options: Jardim-a-Mar (Agonda Beach—I’ve stayed here twice) Simrose (Agonda Beach; this one is often open all-year round) Agonda Serenity Beach Villa (has a jacuzzi on porch at Agonda Beach) Agonda Island View (Agonda Beach) BunkNBrew (hostel in Palolem)

How to get around Goa?

Taxis are expensive in Goa and not ideal for getting around and sightseeing. Buses are quite cheap but again, inconvenient. Instead, opt for a scooter or motorbike for the duration of your stay in Goa. There is no better way to get around, as it will give you the utmost freedom. The best bit is that it is inexpensive at about Rs. 500–800 a day, depending on the season (off-season or peak), type of bike (scooters like Honda Activa, low-end bikes like Bajaj Pulsar or high-end ones, like Royal Enfield) and your haggling skills.

If you don’t want to ride a bike or moped, you can hire a car . Most offer stick shifts so if you don’t know how to drive these, finding an automatic may not be easy. However, we have always managed to find one and so should you. Economy cars usually cost about Rs. 1000–1200 per day but may go up depending on the season.

You can get a bike or car on hire easily by talking to your accommodation host or hotel.

The Perfect 1 Week Goa Itinerary: North and South Goa

The Goa experience is different for every individual, depending on their style of travel. It’s never one size fits all because there is simply so much to see and do. We have stayed in Goa for 2 months and have yet to see it all. Your personalised Goa itinerary would largely depend on what you enjoy—nature, culture, beaches, partying, etc. In this 7-day Goa itinerary, we’ve tried to include a bit of everything so you can get a true feel of the different sides of Goa and decide for yourself which aspect of Goa you enjoy the most!

Day 1-2 North Goa – Watersports, Shopping, and Partying

Stay near the Baga Beach/Arpora area. Despite being crowded, it is close to a lot of North Goa tourist spots you’ll be visiting. And also, hire a scooter, bike or car. You’ll need it to get around. Prior reservations for restaurants are needed!

Day 1: Beach, Water sports, Party

• Reach Goa and check into your hotel or Airbnb
• Rent a vehicle
• Calangute Beach for lunch at Pousada by the Beach
• Water sports and sunset at Baga Beach
• At night go partying at Hammerz (popular music) in the Baga Area or Las Olas (Bollywood music) at Baga Beach. Or both as they’re close by! Start at Hammerz and end at Las Olas.

Day 2: Cliffside Restaurants, Fort, Sundowner, and Party

You don’t need to do all of the things mentioned below. Select the ones you wish to do based on your preferences and how much time you have. I’d recommend not partying till late this night so you can be fresh to explore Goa the next morning.

• Wake up late this day since you’ve partied the previous night
• Lunch:   Titlie OR Antares OR Casa Playa at Little Vagator or Felix OR Artjuna or Vinayak at Anjuna.
• Shop: Now go shop at Anjuna Flea Market!
• Explore Chapora Fort (The movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot here so expect it to be crowded)
• Stay for sunset or go for a sundowner to Thalassa closeby
• Dinner at Ida in Vagator
• Party at one of the following – Soro (Siolim) or Romeo Lane (Little Vagator).

Day 3–4: North Goa: Culture, Heritage and Nature

Day 3: culture and heritage.

Head for a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa . On this day, you’ll get a good glimpse of Portuguese influence on Goan heritage.

Old Goa Churches : Start with Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the following churches in this order:

• St. Augustine Church Ruins
• Basilica of Bom Jesus (the most renowned)
• Convent of Santa Monica and The Museum of Christian Art (optional but good)
• Se Cathedral
• Church of St. Cajetan
• Viceroy’s Arch
• Our Lady of Mount Chapel (optional- for panoramic views of the Panjim area)

Going on a tour will help you make the most of your time and understand the significance of Old Goa and its churches. It is highly recommended. We’ve taken several tours by this company and loved all of them.

Lunch : Head for either a local Goan lunch at Kokni Kanteen or Cafe Al Fresco By Cantina Bodeg a for continental food. Both are close to your next stop.

Fontainhas : After lunch, take a walk in Fontainhas, Asia’s largest Latin Quarter, which has lanes lined with houses built in the colonial style and painted in bright shades of red, yellow, green, and blue. We highly recommend seeing this area on a Latin Quarter walking tour ; only then will you truly be able to appreciate the history, architecture, and all the stories.

However, if you don’t wish to take a tour, start your walk at Maruti Mandir or Phoenix Springs, ending at the Church of Immaculate Conception. See the colourful houses, click a lot of photos at the colourful wall of Old Quarter Hostel, buy some Azulejo tile décor at Velha Goa Galleria, admire the white façade of St. Sebastian Chapel, and have some bebinca (Goan Dessert) at Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro .

Evening: Get drinks and small bites at Antonio@31 or head for a full-fledged dinner at Black Sheep Bistro . Please check the prices of these restaurants beforehand to see if they fit your budget and make reservations accordingly. You could also go for a fun Pub Crawl instead.

Night: Later, you could head to a Deltin Royale Casino (buy tickets online for the best deals) OR go back home to rest for an early morning the next day.

Book Tours in Goa

Day 4: Nature and Heritage

Chorao Island and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary : Do this either on a tour or by yourself. You’ll have to take a ferry from Ribandar. Don’t miss the famous Mangrove Broadwalk. It is beautiful. We haven’t been here yet but can’t wait to go!

Lunch: Lazy Goose , Nerul. Reserve the table with the lake view if you can.

Depending on the time you start the day, see one/two of the following attractions. Choose one museum and one fort:

• Houses of Goa Museum (do this only after a walking tour of Fontainhas; otherwise, nothing will make any sense) OR Museum of Goa (modern art tinged in Goan history).
• Aguada Fort (great for sunsets but crowded) OR Reis Magos Fort (relatively less known and beautiful).

Have dinner in the Candolim, Calangute, or Baga area. There are plenty of good restaurants.

A Reverie : Fine Dining Toro Toro : Continental/Goan Yazu – Pan Asian Beach Club: Asian

Day 5–6: South Goa: Beaches and Relaxation

Day 5: spice plantations, iconic restaurants, relaxation.

Now, head to South Goa. Stay at Agonda or Palolem Beach—both are fantastic beaches for your first time in Goa.

But on your way, you have the option of making a few stops.

• Sahakari Spice Plantation: Wonder why the Portuguese were so fascinated by Goa? The answer lies in the tantalising smell and flavours of spices like Cardamom, Cinnamon, Cloves, Allspice, Cumin, etc. See how these spices grow and learn about them. End with a local buffet lunch at the plantation. I found the experience very interesting and learned a lot. You can buy the ticket on reaching there.
• Iconic Restaurants: If you’re not in the mood for the above, stop at Martin’s Corner or Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch. They are both very renowned.

Check into your hotel and use this day to do nothing and just relax on the beach, see the sunset, etc. Otherwise, you could also choose to head to Sundowner Palolem (Bar) for a sundowner!

Day 6: Beaches and Viewpoints

Today is going to be a long day of beach hopping.

Cola Beach: Start your day at Cola Beach. It’s a bit of a hike down to the beach. You can even take the jeep to the beach to save time and effort but it’ll cost a bit. Cola Beach is famous for its lagoon, where you can swim and kayak. You can have lunch here before heading to your next stop.

Kakolem Beach: This beach has a waterfall. Yes, you read that right. ( you can skip this beach if you’re running short on time or want to take it a bit slow).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Modi & Trisha – Travel Couple (@trywanderingmore)

Cabo De Rama Fort and Cabo De Rama Viewpoint for sunset . Both are gorgeous spots with fantastic views – you’ll love the sunset here. You can also choose to have a meal and drink at the Cape Goa restaurant near the viewpoint before heading back to your hotel.

Day 7: Butterfly Beach and Palolem/Agonda Beach

• Butterfly Beach : It’s a beautiful secluded beach. You can hike it to the beach or go via boat but I’ll suggest going as early as possible to avoid crowds.
• Palolem/Agonda Beach : For lunch head to either of these beaches that you’re not staying at. At Palolem, you can have lunch at Dropadi by the beach and at Treetop Tava or Zest (vegan cafe) at Agonda. Walk around the beach later afterwards.

Depart for home this evening or the next morning!

But do not forget to book your tours in goa before you get there!

Tips to Stay Safe in Goa

This guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t mention tips to stay safe there. Goa is really welcoming and local-friendly. But because it is a  thriving party location and has people travelling from all over, you should take care of the following, especially if you’re a woman.

• Don’t hitchhike.
• If you’re a woman travelling solo, preferably rent a car. If you’re a woman travelling in a group, bikes will do. 
• Always get a video of the vehicle hired to avoid being ripped off on returning the vehicle.
• Don’t go out with people you don’t know and never go to parties alone.
• Watch your drink.
• Try to stay vigilant, even when drunk.
• Some Indian men can assume friendliness as flirting. 
• Be cautious of theft at your accommodation. Huts can easily be broken into.
• Drugs are available abundantly in Goa. Avoid getting stuck in the middle of a drug racket. 
• Avoid drunken driving. It is being monitored by the police more strictly than before.

Don’t let these scare you. I (Trisha) have  travelled solo to Goa  and also with my girlfriends and had an absolutely fantastic time. Most of these tips should be adhered to anywhere in the world. Here is a complete list of  ways to stay safe while travelling alone .

Wrapping up

Goa is a place that you can never get enough of. With each visit, you discover something new – a secret beach, a quaint café, a shack with amazing music, a magnificent fort, and so on. We have visited Goa about five times for short periods – with different people, as different people in different phases of our lives, or wanting something different from our trip- and Goa has never let us down. We are sure you will be taken by the charm of Goa and not want to leave just like the hippies in their heydays. Hope you found this Goa Travel Blog useful and have an amazing first trip to Goa. Tell us how it went!

This blog post on the ‘Travel Guide to Goa for First Timers’ has affiliate links that enable us to earn a small commission when you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and activities we like and those that might interest you. If you like any suggested product, do buy from the given links.

1 thought on “A Complete 7-day Itinerary and Guide to Goa for First Timers”

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

A First Timer’s Guide to Goa, India

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Even though Goa is the smallest state on the Western coast of India, it is one of the most popular due to its rich heritage, warm and friendly people, tropical climate, scenic beaches and exotic handicraft.

Back in the 60’s & 70’s, the North of the island became a hippy-haven, a place to escape everyday life and quickly became somewhere for backpackers to hang out and party.

For people travelling India alone, it was the perfect introduction. Naturally, the more popular a place becomes, the more it changes and over time.

The North now seems to be associated with high-rise hotels, watersports, street markets and cultural buildings but it also still retains its party-vibe.

Goa was recommended to us by someone when we were holidaying in Morocco, so we carried out some research on which was the best resort to stay – North or South?

Table of Contents

Quiet Cavelossim

Dudhsager falls & spice plantation, peaceful palolem, our final evening in goa, travel facts for goa, india, other attractions, a small selection of the best beaches:, pin it for later.

We tapped Goa onto the end of a week touring the Golden Triangle and were looking for something quieter, relaxing and less developed – with all this in mind, we were advised to head South and chose Cavelossim Beach at the Dona Sylvia Beach Resort .

To ensure the area doesn’t become monopolised with high-rise hotels in the North, the resorts around Cavelossim are not allowed to be more than two storeys high.

The grounds are in a beautifully tranquil setting, filled with trees and pretty flowers, including my favourite – frangipani!

The sand at Cavelossim beach was white, soft and crunchy – it felt a little like snow underfoot (only warmer!). On our first day we relished in feeling the warm refreshing Arabian sea lap against our toes. We watched crabs dart across the beach and watched locals trying to sell their wares.

They attempted to coax us into their beach shacks but after all the haggling in Rajasthan we simply wanted to relax and walk – shopping would come later.

Whilst we were in Goa, we celebrated our 2 nd wedding anniversary so we headed to the beach for sunset with a bottle of champagne. The sky turned from pastel peach to oranges then pink – it was the perfect end to our special day.

The Goan’s are renowned for their fine multi-cultural cuisine and we both absolutely loved the culinary masterpieces served up at the resort every single time we dined.

They whip up everything possible with various types of veg and we piled this high onto our plates – this is unusual for us, we love our meat!!

Outside the resort was a small road with shops and a few bars. We always had fun talking and joking with the locals, they really made us feel part of the community and quickly recognised our faces.

One night we stopped for a beer and cocktail at the Jazz Inn which, bizarrely, had a big frangipani tree growing through the middle of it! We grooved to the cool tunes played by the DJ who was also a Bob Marley impersonator from Birmingham, England.

We had a great chat with him and discovered he spends 6 months a year in Goa.

On one occasion we caught an auto-rickshaw as a taster of true India, it was hilarious! We laughed the entire journey!

The night sky was pitch black and our vehicle barely lit the way with its tiny headlamps – goodness knows how he could see! It was loud, crazy and filthy dirty, my hair looked like a scarecrow when we finished! The driver was so proud at how quickly we had reached our destination!

We had to shower when we were back to our hotel as we felt so disgusting – but the journey was well worth it!

Dudhsager Falls (pronounced dud-sager) means “sea of milk” and is located in Colem, two bumpy hours on a coach from where we were staying.

To reach the falls, we were transferred into an overland jeep for the final 45 minutes of the journey and we drove through 3 lakes (very cool!) followed by a 10 minute walk over stones and boulders.

We stripped off to our bathers and gingerly inched our bodies into the freezing cold fresh water – obviously after a few minutes of swimming and we were acclimatised, it was OK but it was rather crisp for those first initial moments!

Big fish swam alongside us and people threw pieces of banana for them to eat – oh yes – fish …eating bananas!

We swam over to the cascading falls and felt its power as the spray hit our face, it was beautiful. We had some free time here, so we chilled on a rock listening to the roar of the tumbling water – music to our ears!

Considered to be one of the best beaches in Goa, Palolem was an hour’s taxi drive from our resort.

It is an idyllic white crescent beach naturally blessed with palm trees lining the shore, calm turquoise sea and colourful beach huts. It definitely had a laid back vibe and we watched as fishermen gathered their nets on the beach – all very picture-postcard.

We had travelled here to enjoy the beach, and whilst sitting down for an hour, a few sellers asked if we wanted to buy anything, and when we declined they left us alone.

This made it such a pleasure to relax and we understood the lure of why a backpacker would spend weeks here – purely to enjoy the simple, chilled life!

After taking a peaceful stroll along the shore, we sat in a beach bar sipping a cold drink and just looking at the view, we wanted take time to soak up the ambience and really “feel” what this place was all about.

So to sum up Palolem – it really is a tranquil slice of paradise!

As the sun set on our last evening, we sat on the beach and reminisced at how magical our time had been.

Even though the sun had disappeared, there was such a nice atmosphere we chose to stay a few hours.

We listened to the music playing, danced on the sand and watched the high tide lap against the beach tables.

People lit paper lanterns and set them adrift into the sky. We watched as they faded into the distance forming an orange dot on the skyline, noticeably different to the gleaming white of the stars.

It was the best way to end our magical trip.

• A tourist visa is required for most nationalities but there is an e-visa scheme to apply online.
• The International Airport is in Dabolim on the west coast roughly in the middle of the state.
• 4 languages are spoken – Konkani, English, Marathi, Hindi
• Seasons: November – March – dry and cooler (by Indian standards). April & May it is unbearably hot and June – Sept/October have the monsoon rains.

Other Things to Do in Goa

We were attracted to Goa purely because someone recommended it! We had already looked at the Golden Circle tour with tiger safari, so Goa was the natural place to add-on.

Incidentally, whilst staying here, tour operators do give the option for overnights trips to visit the Taj Mahal and for tiger safaris.

You can book transport to come to and from Goa ahead of time by using the popular website, Bookaway .

• Panaji/Panjim – The capital full of historical Latin & Portuguese culture
• Bom Jesus Basilica –(for St. Francis Xavier tomb)
• Wildlife Sanctuaries – Bhagwan Mahvir (of which Mollem National Park is a part) or Cotigao Lamgau Caves
• Spice plantation visit (there are many all over)
• Casino cruise
• If you’re hanging out in Goa, head further south and check out the cool state of Kerala. Backwaters, surf and tonnes of cool things to do!

Markets In Goa

• Anjuna Flea Market (every Wednesday)
• Arpora Night Flea Market
• Mapusa Market (every Friday)

Angie Briggs

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

Top 10 Things to Do in Mumbai, India

Refusing to ride: the real story behind elephant tourism in india, india’s rat temple – karni mata temple in rajasthan, related posts, 88 thoughts on “a first timer’s guide to goa, india”.

Thanks for the guide Alesha and Jarryd. This year I missed Goa Trip but not next time.

Nice post goa is the perfect destination for a explore beach and staying in beautiful hotels and resort with a beach view are the best combination for stay in goa.

Thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed the article 🙂

As awesome i am expecting from your blog

very informative blog!

Hey, nice thank you for this great information.

Glad you found the information helpful. 🙂

Hey Angie Briggs, Thank you for all this information and The way you explain the things was so commendable, I just went to goa it was so helpful for me and the resort where I stay was so amazing.

Happy to help. Glad you had a great time. 🙂

Goa is a stunningly beautiful city with a kind and inviting population that draws visitors from all over the world. a fantastic article! Goa appears to be a fantastic place to visit. I’ll be adding this to my long list of fantastic places to visit. Thank you for providing this information.

A delightful read. Goa is undoubtedly one of the best destinations to visit for anyone visiting India for the first time. Its laid-back charm and beach settings are quite alluring and would make you want to stay forever!

Thank you for your comment. 🙂

It is Informative and engaging at the same time. Really liked the content you included. On top of that pictures were lovely and gave a feel of Goa.

Glad you liked the article. Thank you

A very nice blog such a great place to visit. And I also share with my family.

Thank you so much

Wow!! You definitely have the art of story-telling. The way you have written and the flow in which you have written is mindblowing. A very well-written and informative blog. I really liked the Travel Facts and Other Things To Do in Goa section. Also, I would like to know if you visited any theme parks in Goa? I am looking forward to take my family to a theme park.

Thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed the article.

Thanks for sharing the article it is really informative to get knowledge about the place.Goa is the best place to relax yourself. You have posted beautiful pictures to explore goa without any hesitation.keep sharing the post.

Thank you so much 🙂

Nice blog on first-timer. Explained very well. I have visited Goa. Really, an amazing place for beaches, parties, waterfalls. Best time to visit Goa is from December to February. All the great festival happens in this time like sunburn, goa festivals, and new year celebrations.

Wonderful post ! it is very interesting and informative post, I really enjoyed to read this. Visiting for these places you can take the help of Bharat Taxi for taxi service.

Thank you so much. 🙂

Very well written blog. I have been to Goa a few times myself and I think the blog covers the essence and spirit of the lace quite well. Informative at the same time entertaining read. Please share more pictures if you have. I have written a Blog on Goa trip as well. Please check it out

Thanks for your comment Sonali.

Goa is one of my favorite travel destination, the best place to relax. Such a lovely post! So glad to see you added spice plantation, it is still not very known.

Glad you liked the article. Thanks 🙂

Goa is an interesting sea beach and it’s amazing. I love the marine drive there.

Your guide was impressive and mind-blowing photos.

Thank you so much. We appreciate it.

Thanks for giving a brief description on Goa .

Last some day I thinking where to go for a mini vacation and I reached on your blog. After reading blog I decide to plan a trip to Goa for next week,

Thanks for sharing amazing goa blog.

Glad we could help. Have a great time Karan.

This is a great blog as a first impression. Am living in Goa for the last 5 months and it has been a very immersive time for me here. There are plenty of people who are choosing to leave the fast-paced city lives and move to the sunshine state 🙂

Very nice blog. You share a grateful information about travel in India. Thanks!

Heyy you guys! this was an amazing article, I am from Goa, and glad you enjoyed your trip! as a student I am doing a research study on the hospitality industry in Goa, for which i’m taking input from various people like, who traveled to Goa, from Goa and so on. I would be delighted if you share your personal experience as tourists in Goa. Please answer these questions below: 1. Did you feel your trip went out of budget? 2. Were there any problems faced by you, like in your hotel stay? 3. Would you prefer coming back to Goa?

Thank you. This would be a great help!

Hi Anushka, thank you for reading the article. This article is a guest post from Angie from Feet Do Travel. Hopefully she will be able to help. All the best

https://www.feetdotravel.com/contact-the-feet.html

Hi i want to come There ,could you guide me

Awesome post. Last i trip to goa its is very pretty place.Its make more memorable to us!..I just remain that moment while read this blog. Thanks for sharing!

Hi Ryan, thank you for reading. Glad it bought back memories. 🙂

A very interesting post as I also familiar very little about Goa, but now I have added this to my list of places to visit.

Thank you. Glad you liked it. 🙂

I really love this place while reading your article I got excited and remembering my Goa trip Thanks for sharing Keep posting.

Would love this for our family! It looks a wonderful place to visit there.

Hope you all get there one day. Happy travels. 🙂

What a Great post! Goa likes an amazing place where I can enjoy a lot. I am adding these places on my list where I want to Goa. thanks for sharing the best information. The photos are also great.

Thank you for reading.

Nice post. it is a very useful post. I like very much. Thank you for your sharing.

Glad it was helpful. Thank you

Wow this is nice blog sites. Very interesting blogs. I reallly like your traveling images. Thanks for sharing.Really a wonderful post. Thanks for posting such an informative & useful post with us. keep posting & inspire us like this post.Amazing pictures and very interesting article….. Thanks a lot for giving proper tourist knowledge and share the different type of culture related to different places. If you are planning for your holiday and searching for the beautiful place to spend your time then you can wander around this vibrant city. Nice pictures & very helpful information to Goa. Thanks to sharing this blog…..!!!

Thank you so much. Glad you liked the article. Thanks for your comment.

Happy to know that you liked Goa. Its perhaps time for another visit. There is a lot more to see and do here. Come back soon 🙂

Thanks for your comment Jane. It definitely does sound like Angie had a great time. Jarryd and I will have to check Goa out one day. 🙂

This is quite helpful. And that picture of the waterfall is amazing 🙂 Keep sharing more.

Thank you so much. Angie wrote a great article for us. 🙂

My friends and I booked a yacht from rediscovery cruises in April.. We had the best time ever!!! The staff took really good care of us.. We were served chilled beers and light snacks. All in all it was an amazing experience. Will definitely recommend them to anyone.Thanks to sea water sports

What a trip. Sounds like you had a great time. 🙂 Thank you for your comment

Great. I like your article and I have never been there so I am planning to visit there very soon on my upcoming vacation. Thanks for sharing the information.

Thank you so much. We hope you have a great time on your next visit. 🙂

Very well explained the unknown things about goa.

I’m going this month on Feb’18 28th. join there.

Thanks for reading Arun. Angie wrote a great article for us. We can not wait to go. We hope you have a great time and happy travels.

Nice description about our own Goa. But you should come back for New year’s eve party to enjoy the real goa.

Thanks so much. We’d love to visit Goa one day. Angie wrote a great article for us. 🙂

Inspiring blog, will be visiting in this November. It would be fun if someone likes to join us.

Thank you so much. Sounds great. Have a great time Edgar, 🙂

Thanks for sharing, definitely inspires to go and explore! We will be traveling to India this year, will stop by there and stay for a bit, Looks like a graet place to hang out for a while. How as Wifi there? We will need that if we want to stay longer… Thanks!

Thank you so much Julian. Not too sure about the Wifi as Angie wrote this awesome guide for us. We do have a few friends who live there and are bloggers. They have never complained about it but then again they most likely have their own connection. I am so sorry we could be more help. Have a great trip.

I’ve met a few travellers who only have good things to say about Goa, but I’ve never been myself. I know it used to bit a hippy spot but that’s about as far as my knowledge goes, oh and it was featured one of the 2nd Bourne film at the start. Angie has given an excellent account and detailed write-up.

Hi Barry, that was our knowledge also (hippy place). Until we met someone who lived there and told us more about Goa. We have never been either and would like to one day. Angie has definitely made us want to go. Hope you get there soon mate. Happy travels.

Angie is such a great writer! What ever she writes down, it always consumes me in a good way. After reading her stories of various places in the world, I feel like I need to go to every single one of them right now! Ha! Same goes with this one and Goa. Can’t wait!

Indeed she is. She really takes you to the place and makes you feel you need to be there. We were very lucky to have her write a post for us. Happy travels Kreete. 🙂

I have been reading a lot about Goa lately. Looks like a great place to explore. Love those beautiful falls!

Thanks Lisa. It does seem a lovely place. Angie wrote a great post for and and has indeed made us want to go too. 🙂 Happy travels

Stunning photos and gave me a very good insight into a part of India I would really love to visit when I eventually make it out there. I have heard of some of the places you mention but you’ve really brought them alive with your photos! Thanks for sharing!

A great post – we have considered Goa as friends have recommended it but it’s fab to find out all this information – Palolem looks like paradise! Beautiful photographs

Thank you Tracy. Angie wrote a great post for us. Glad you found it useful. Happy travels

What a great post! Goa looks like an amazing place to spend some time. I’ll be adding this to my very, very long list of great places to go. Thanks so much for sharing – will pin this for later too!

Thanks so much Jenn. Angie wrote a great guide for us. We can’t wait to visit this area of India too.

Goa has been near the top of our list for a long time and we are thinking of making it our summer destination this year. We have heard that the monsoons make everything greener!

It looks absolutely stunning – especially Dudhsager Falls. One of my favourite things in the world is swimming in a waterfall plunge pool and listening to the water beat down.

It does, doesn’t it. We can not wait to visit India and Goa is on our list. Waterfall swim is so magical. Thanks for your comment Karianne.

A very informative post as I too know very little about Goa, but now I have added this to my list of places to visit. The photos are great !

Thank you so much. Angie wrote a great guide and she definitely can take a great shot. 🙂

As someone who knows very little about India and Goa, this was great. Palolem looks really relaxing and I like that the beach vendors aren’t too pushy. Surprisingly, I had heard of the Dudhsager Falls before somehow and they’re definitely somewhere I’d like to visit. Beautiful photos Angie!

Thanks for your message David. We have never been to India. Can’t wait. Definitely a great post by Angie and beautiful photos. 🙂

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• An Absolute Post-Covid Travel Guide To Goa: Updated Goa Tourism Guidelines In 2024

23 Mar 2023

If the most dreamed-of holiday in India had a name, it would probably sound a lot like Goa. From clear water beaches with exotic activities and themed events, and a vibrant mix of modern and traditional culture, Goa is as close to a dream paradise as you get. An ancient Portuguese colony, it boasts a historic charm, and offers many adventure sports, unwinding, and a dose of delicious Goan food. Since the declaration of a national lockdown in March, Goa has been one of the most anticipated destinations that travelers couldn’t wait to visit, a feeling most of us share. Goa tourism guidelines has been released by the state tourism ministry to ensure the safety of travelers as well as local residents. 

Read the detailed post-Covid travel guide to Goa below for your post-pandemic travel planning.

Goa Travel Advisory During Covid-19

Are you looking for quarantine rules in Goa ? The state of Goa is inviting more travelers by opening up its tourism industry slowly but the key priority is the safety and wellbeing of both the travelers and the residents. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that as a part of Unlock 4.0, they have removed the mandate to carry a negative Covid-19 test but all the other restrictions such as compulsory face mask, social distancing, and sanitization of public places are still in place. Here’s a list of some of the other important Covid-19 guidelines issued by the state of Goa that travelers must follow:

• The passenger must have completed both the dosages of vaccination.
• All the visitors must have the Aarogya Setu App downloaded with an updated status of ‘Safe’.
• All domestic and incoming travellers must undergo thermal screening.
• Symptomic travellers will need to take a PCR test and stay in isolation if needed.
• Casinos, cinema halls, schools, colleges, weekly markets, as well as shops are now open and running.
• Beach shacks are open for serving customers with full capacity.
• The Baga-Calangute beach belt is open for travelers.
• Air transportation remains open for domestic flights to and from Goa.
• Domestic buses are operating on normal routes but with a full capacity.

Must Read: 18 Things To do In Goa In December For A Happening Vacation

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Goa is from November to April when the weather is ideal for relaxing on the popular beaches and the temperature averages between 20 to 30 degrees celsius.

How to Reach

The Goa state government has removed all travel restrictions to allow the influx of tourists from all parts of India. The authorities have also introduced rules for travelling to Goa and also charge a fine for those who are not wearing their mask during commute/entering the border. The passengers will be photographed and fined for their actions.

• Travelers can take a flight from the closest airport to The Dabolim Airport or Goa International Airport to reach Goa.
• Trains are operating regularly to Goa and you must check the availability on the IRCTC website before booking.
• If you are planning to travel by road, you can hire a car or drive yourself from the state border to your accommodation.

Suggested Read: 9 Best Islands Of Goa For An Offbeat Trip To India’s Favorite Beach Town

Getting Around

There are multiple modes of transportation available for travelers who want to go around Goa. You can rent a bike from travel dealers for an affordable price, hire auto-rickshaws, take private cabs for a more comfortable journey and also travel by ferry. Make sure that you follow all the Goa tourism rules carefully for a safer travel experience.

The following are the locations where ferry services are available. Please note that some of them may not be functional yet due to the pandemic.

• Betim to Panaji
• Old Goa to Divar Island
• Querim to Tiracolor
• Cavelossim to Assolna

Places To Visit In Goa During Covid-19

With countless beaches, seamless crystal blue waters, and mesmerizing local suburbs that exudes culture, Goa offers many delights to those willing to explore. Ever heard that “big things come in small packages?” This axiom certainly fits best to Goa, a land of limitless possibilities and a soothing escape for travelers.

As Goa has reopened, the way we approach travel might have changed but the beauty of the places remains the same. If you are planning to make a trip, make sure you don’t miss out on Palolem Beach, Baga Beach, Panaji, Goa Velha, and Calangute.

Suggested Read: 9 Hotels In Goa That Offer World-Class Facilities To The Guests And Travelers!

Things To Do In Goa During Covid-19

With soft sand, clear water, and enjoying beachside conversations with your friends and family, Goa is an absolute favorite destination for autumn and winter travelers. If you are looking for reasons to trade snow with sand, there are many things to do in Goa like Cafe hopping, water sports, Goan food tour, night bazaars, and more.

While participating in organized events like water sports or food tours, safety is the most important factor to keep in mind. As businesses are opening, the state is taking all the precautions to make sure that the travelers are safe when they experience Goa. As a traveler, you can check with your concerned facility and ask for Goa tourism rules , safety gear, and more before your departure.

Accommodation

The state of Goa has removed all the travel restrictions imposed during the lockdown and travelers no longer need to book a stay in advance. From short stays to week-long vacations, you can enjoy your time in Goa by choosing to stay at some of the most amazing hotels and Airbnbs. All hotels are now following the Goa travel rules mentioned by the authorities after reopening which includes a deep sanitization process during and after every guest, limited capacity of beds, closure of community areas like pools and gyms, and contact tracing.

Here is a list of measures that the state of Goa has for the hotel industry:

• Temperature screening at hotels
• Sanitizer availability at the hotel and inside all the rooms
• Disposable gloves mandatory for hotel staff at bar and restaurant
• Contact tracing forms at every hotel

Suggested Read: Canyoning In Goa: Experience An Adrenaline Rush Like Never Before!

Restaurants

The hospitality industry in Goa is reopening but the safety of the travelers and staff remains a key priority. While some of the most popular street food outlets and restaurants in Goa are back to normal functioning with a limited capacity, many of the food outlets have moved to delivery-only or takeaway facilities. Food franchises are also operational and open for customers with social distance seating and disposable cutlery to avoid any transmission.

What To Pack

A post-Covid trip to Goa calls for a smart packing list that would accommodate all your belongings and save space for safety essentials like an extra bottle of sanitizer or a PPE kit. Here’s Travel Triangle’s comprehensive list of things to pack:

• Clothing for moderate weather and two beach-friendly outfits
• A pack of disposable face masks or 2-3 reusable face masks
• Sanitizer for personal use
• Sanitizing solution for outdoor/surface use
• A personal PPE kit that will include a face shield, sanitizer sachets, and a pair of disposable glove for flight, train, or any kind of commute
• Slippers, hats, sunscreen, and other beach essentials that you may need

Suggested Read: 13 Excellent Places To Visit In Goa In July For A Soothing Vacay

Travel Checklist

• Book your travel and accommodation in advance.
• Talk with your hotel/Airbnb about their sanitizing facilities and the Covid-19 related precautions they are taking.
• Download the Arogya Setu app on your mobile phone.
• Try to get tested before your travel and keep the Covid-19 negative certificate handy during your commute.

Further Travel Tips

• When at the beach or visiting an attraction, make sure you follow the safety marks on the floor or walls of the place for social distancing.
• If you are using the ferry services, make sure they are not overcrowded.
• People over the age of 65 or children under the age of 10 are advised not to undertake non-essential travel.

Further Read: 6 Picnic Spots Near Goa That Are Epitome Of Art And Culture!

As we slowly recover from this pandemic, safety must remain our primary concern while traveling. This post-Covid travel guide to Goa is your one-stop solution for trip planning and itinerary. If you are looking for something more than a post-Covid travel guide to Goa , let us help you put together your dream Goan trip with our customized packages.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist, or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

People Also Read: 

Essentials For Travel During COVID Times Mount Everest To Reopen For Climbers Road Travel During COVID-19 Times

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Goa open for tourists?

Yes, the state of Goa is currently open for domestic tourists and travelers from all parts of the country. As per the Unlock 5 guidelines announced by the government, travelers no longer need to show a Covid-19 test or book accommodation in advance. You can easily travel from your home state by just undergoing a temperature check at entry points.

Is it safe to travel to Goa during the Coronavirus pandemic?

Yes, it is safe to travel to Goa only if you are traveling in a small group while following the state-issued advisory. As experts are warning to be cautious against the spread of the virus in cold weather, here are some precautions you must follow if you travel: When going outside, in public transport, or visiting tourist attractions, wear a suitable and fitted face mask that covers your nose and mouth. Always carry hand sanitizer with you and check with your hotel if they are providing you with regular sanitation facilities. Avoid touching any unsanitary surfaces and keep a pack of disposable gloves handy if needed. Avoid going to crowded places and if you are planning to visit any temples or marketplaces, make sure you maintain social distancing.

Are the casinos in Goa open for tourists?

Yes, you can try your luck in some of the most popular casinos in Goa from November 1st, 2020. All the establishments are ordered to operate at 50% capacity and follow the state government protocol thoroughly to ensure the safety of the visitors and staff.

Recent Posts

मानसून में गोवा में करने योग्य चीजें 2024 में आपकी सबसे अच्छी यात्रा होगी

Offbeat Places In North Goa That Are Worth Visiting For A Wholesome Travel Experience

Trekking Near Goa: 8 Best Treks You Can’t Miss For An Adventure-Packed Vacation

Top 10 Places To Visit Near Morjim Beach For Vacation Lovers

32 गोवा में छुपी हुई जगहें: 2024 में गोवा के अनछुए पहलू का अन्वेषण करें

Conquering The Coast With Kerala To Goa Road Trip – A Detailed Guide

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Goa »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

• Logout Login
• Adventure Holidays
• Weekend Getaways
• Driving Holidays
• Travel News

Top Searches

World Peaceful Countries

Char Dham Temple

India Valleys

India Stargazing Places

World Slow Countries

India Cambodia Flight

Goa reopens for tourists; check out who all are allowed

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , GOA / Updated : Aug 11, 2021, 09:40 IST

You're Reading

Goa has finally reopened for tourists after remaining shut for months due to a second wave of Coronavirus cases across the country, and rise in COVID cases in the state.

Goa has finally reopened for tourists after remaining shut for months due to a second wave of Coronavirus cases across the country, and rise in COVID cases in the state. Read less

More from Travel News

Comments (0)

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive . Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.

Comments ( ) Sort: Newest UpVoted Oldest Discussed Down Voted closecomments

SIGN IN WITH

Or post without registration.

Visual Stories

Popular Galleries

Cities in India that are experiencing severe heatwave right now TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA

Stunning locations that evoke memories of Dil To Pagal Hai TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD

Top stargazing destinations in India TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA

Trending stories.

• Sikkim: Unveiling the sacred secrets of Khecheopalri Lake

• Maharashtra: Best places to enjoy the magic of fireflies this monsoon

• Tamil Nadu: Nilgiris urges tourists to postpone plans amidst flash flood tragedy

• Lake destinations in India that are cool summer escapes

Cities in India that are experiencing severe heatwave right now

• 1 Goa reopens for tourists; check out who all are allowed
• 2 Cambodia has now reopened for Indians
• 3 Soon you can enjoy homestay and water-based tourism in Chhattisgarh
• 4 Doha’s Hamad International Airport wins the title of ‘Best Airport in the World’
• 5 Meghalaya all set to reopen religious places from August 16

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO DESTINATIONS, ITINERARIES, THINGS TO DO, RESTAURANTS, NIGHTLIFE and LOTS MORE!

FOLLOW US ON

Places to visit.

• Places to visit in Bangalore
• Places to visit in Mumbai
• Places to visit in Delhi
• Places to visit in Goa
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Shimla
• Hotels in Mumbai

Things To do

• Things to do in Goa
• Things to do in Mumbai
• Things to do in Bangalore
• Things to do in Delhi

Travel Inspiration

• Visa on arrival for Indians
• Honeymoon Places in india
• Hill Stations in India
• Weekend getaways in Mumbai
• Weather in Delhi
• Weather in Chennai
• Weather in Bangalore
• Weather in Mumbai

Best Beaches

• Goa Beaches
• Mumbai Beaches
• Pondicherry Beaches
• Kerala Beaches
• Restaurants in Bangalore
• Restaurants in Chennai
• Restaurants in Pune
• Restaurants in Jaipur
• Hill Station near Delhi
• Winter trip to Ladakh
• Places to visit in Kerala
• Winter Honeymoon Destinations
• UK visa guide for Indians
• Winter Trip to Manali
• Vaishno Devi Yatra
• Special Train Ticket Booking
• HP inter-state Bus
• Honeymoon Destinations India

Latest News

• Want a spring in your step? Head to Switzerland and experience the country come alive!
• Tracing Buddha footsteps in India this Buddha Purnima

Congratulations!

You have been successfully added to the mailing list of Times of India Travel. To complete the subscription process, kindly open your inbox and click on the confirmation link which has been emailed to you.

Share with friends

Thank You for sharing! Your friend will receive the article link on email mentioned.

• (For more than one recipient, type addresses separated by commas)

Please Note!!!

Links to various permissions and publications

Need Permission?

Intrastate travel (travel within the state of goa).

FOR GOANS AND NON GOANS TO TRAVEL WITHIN GOA

• Citizens can apply for a Temporary Pass for Medical Emergency or to withdraw cash from ATM or to buy Medicine/Grocery/Milk and important commodities.
• The Temporary pass can be applied once in 3 days and the pass is valid for 2 hours.
• Senior Citizens having age 70 or more can apply pass daily and the pass is valid for 4 hours.
• The Temporary Pass cannot be used to cross the state boundary.
• Citizen or Organizations can apply for a Travel permit along with the travel requirement proof.
• The Travel Permit applications are reviewed and authorized by the respective District Collector.
• The Travel Permit may be rejected if the document supporting travel requirement is not attached.
• The Travel Permit can be applied for the desired period and locations.

Interstate Travel (Travel from/to Goa to/from any state of the Country)

TRAVEL BY OWN/HIRED PRIVATE VEHICLE

• Register Individual or Multiple travellers who are stranded in the state as workers/professionals, pilgrims, tourists, students and others who can travel with their own or hired private vehicle.
• Registrations will be reviewed and authorized by the respective District Collector.
• The requested registration may be rejected if the document supporting travel requirement is not attached.

TRAVEL BY GOVERNMENT ARRANGED TRANSPORT

• Register Individual or Multiple travellers who are stranded in the state as workers/professionals, pilgrims, tourists, students and others who need Government arranged travel assistance.

Inter-country Travel (Travel from outside India to Goa)

• Register Individual or Multiple travellers who are stranded in other country as workers/professionals, pilgrims, tourists, students and others.

Temporary Pass for 2 hours

Apply for a Temporary Pass valid for 2-3 hrs for medical Emergency or to withdraw cash from ATM or to buy medicine/ grocery/ milk and other important commodities. Get Temporary Pass

Travel Permit for longer duration

Apply for a Travel Permit for recurring or long distance or long duration travel within the state. Get Travel Permit

Home Isolation Permission(Covid Asymptomatic)

Home isolation permission.

Received message of being Tested positive? Kindly isolate yourself and Do Not Panic!! Your Home Isolation Request is being auto generated. The Directorate of Health Services will get in touch with you shortly. Home Isolation Guidelines  

NRIs willing to return to India

All Goa based NRIs who are stranded in other countries and are willing to come back to Goa, India should register on Goa Governments NRI registration portal to get assistance in returning to Goa.

NOC for returning to Goa from foreign countries

Goans stranded in other countries who have arrived or who will be arriving shortly at any Indian port and desire to travel to Goa can apply for NOC to travel to Goa. Click here

Check Status of your application

You can check the status of your application by visiting below link. For travel permission select department as Revenue, and select service under which you have submitted application and enter the acknowledgement number and search the status.    Check status now

For train travellers

COVID-19 testing is mandatory on arrival in the State of Goa and Rs 2000/- per person will be charged for the test except from those who are covered under, Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana or any other exempted category. The testing will be done at a suitable location. Thereafter, you will be kept in isolation till test results are out. This process may take up to 8-10 hours. Terms and Conditions for entering the State of Goa by train along with link to download Self Reporting form and link to make online payment of the COVID-19 test fees    Click Here

Goa State COVID-19 Relief Fund

Companies can contribute towards the Goa State COVID-19 Relief Fund under CSR and can claim tax benefit.

To view all notifications/circulars/orders issued by Government of Goa towards COVID-19       Click Here

Website is best Viewed in FireFox 64.0 / Chrome 72.0 or above.

Global Gallivanting

My complete goa travel guide: insider’s tips for 2024.

There’s many Goa travel guides out there, but my insider’s guide to Goa has everything you need to know to plan your Goa holiday – I’ve been living here for over 10 years since 2015 , so I know my way around more than most!

Goa changes quickly, new places open and close every season, so I have updated this post for 2024 with all the latest information. After being closed during Covid, India is now fully open for tourism, and last season was busier than ever so its worthwhile booking ahead.

My Goa Travel Guide

In this Goa guide I’ll go through everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Goa. From when to visit, where to stay and how to get to Goa, to insiders tips on the best beaches and places to visit, things to do, restaurants, nightlife and much more.

Why Visit Goa

Goa is India’s smallest state, famous for it’s laid back lifestyle, over 101 km of sandy tropical beaches, colourful markets and legendary nightlife all infused with a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese culture.

Goa first became popular in the days of the hippie trail and has now become India’s most popular tourist destination, Goa attracts many domestic Indian tourists as well as travellers from all over the world.

Sadly, most tourists haven’t read a Goa travel guide so they don’t explore beyond the beaches and parties. This is a huge shame because Goa offers so much more to explore, from historic churches and forts to spice plantations, waterfalls and natural beauty spots.

There really is nowhere else quite like Goa and with everything from luxury resorts to cute beach huts , wild nightclubs to mellow yoga retreats – it’s not surprising that so many people love Goa. 

Read More Goa Blog Posts: Why I Love and Live in Goa

My Insider’s Guide to Goa

Goa is a much bigger and more diverse state than most tourists realise. So for the best experience it’s really worth doing a bit of research and reading some a Goa travel guides and some Goa blogs like this when planning your trip, especially if it’s your first time in Goa.

I fell totally in love with Goa almost 10 years ago now and have spent many years living here, exploring every beach and corner of this beautiful state.

I’ve put together all my insider’s Goa travel tips into this Goa travel guide, from the best beaches, parties, hotels and places to visit to the best places to stay, best time to visit and much more.

I’ve tried to keep this Goa travel guide concise so if you want to know more click on the links for the full article on each topic

The Best Time to Visit Goa

When planning a trip to Goa, one of the most important things to consider is when to visit.

The best time to visit Goa is in the main tourist season in Goa runs from November – March when the weather is sunny, dry and cool (by Indian standards) and perfect for sightseeing, enjoying the beaches and water sports and the nightlife is buzzing.

Goa is one of the best places to spend Christmas and New Year. The churches are decorated for the festive season and it’s the best time to visit Goa for nightlife as there are so many parties around New Year and festivals like Sunburn.

This is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit Goa. Don’t come to Goa around New Year without booking your accommodation well in advance as everywhere gets fully booked!

Another great time to visit Goa is for the Carnival ! Join in with Goa’s biggest party as the streets of the capital Panjim (Panaji) come alive with a riot of colour and noise in mid February before the beginning of lent.

In April and May, the tourism season starts to wind down and prices drop. Goa is still dry but is almost unbearably hot, mangoes and cashews fall from the trees and the locals eagerly await the arrival of the rain.

Monsoon in Goa

No Goa travel guide would be complete without mentioning Goa in monsoon – visiting in the rainy season is a totally different Goa expereince.

The monsoon rains arrive in June and continue until September/ October and marks the off season in Goa. Many places including open air venues, beach shacks, parties, markets and beach huts close down for the rainy season. But every year more and more facilities remain open.

In many ways Goa is at it’s most beautiful in the monsoon season, although the rough seas mean its dangerous to swim or do water sports. The Sao Joao Festival in June is a fun and unique experience. But June and July see the heaviest rain with torrential downpours that can last for days, frequent power outages and flooded roads.

The best time to visit Goa in monsoon is from August to October as the rain becomes less heavy. Enjoy the lush greenery, waterfalls, fewer crowds and lower prices. Just don’t expect everything to be open and, apart from Independence Day parties , don’t expect a wild nightlife scene in the off season.

Read more about visiting Goa in monsoon

• Where to Stay in Goa

Deciding where to stay in Goa is really important as each beach, city and area has a different vibe and will appeal to different types of travellers.

Whether you’re looking to party the night away with friends, take a romantic couples trip or a family friendly holiday you can find the perfect place to stay in Goa.

There’s a big variety of accommodation in Goa, from luxury resorts, private villas and yoga retreats to mid range and budget hotels, backpacker hostels and beach huts.

But first you need to decide where to stay in Goa. That’s the hard part! My advice is to do read some Goa travel guides and do some research into the different places Then you can find the best hotel for you in your chosen location.

I made this map of Goa to help you see where the most popular beaches and towns are located in relation to Dabolim airport (GOI) and the new Mopa airport (GOX) and Madgaon/Margao train station.

The Best Beaches and Places to Stay in Goa

The best places to stay in Goa are on the beaches and there’s no shortage of choice from busy, party beaches in North Goa to long, quiet stretches of sand in South Goa. Whether you want to stay in a Goa beach resort or a basic beach hut, staying on the beach is the best way to experience Goa and is possible whatever your budget.

No Goa trip is complete without spending a blissful day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the warm Arabian sea, enjoying the water sports, eating Goan fish curry in the beach shacks and watching a spectacular sunset.

To help you find the perfect beach in Goa for you, here’s a quick round up of the best beaches in Goa and the best hotels and places to stay there. 

Deciding where to stay is probably the most important section of my guide to Goa so check out my comprehensive blog post on where to stay in Goa if you need more info.

The North is the busiest area in Goa where most of the attractions, water sports, nightlife, restaurants, markets, shops and hotels are.

The long, sandy stretch of Baga Beach, Calangute Beach and Candolim Beach are the busiest and most popular beaches in Goa with plenty of activities and beach shacks. You can try all sorts of water sports like jet skiing, parasailing and banana boat rides. 

Baga and Calangute are home to the lively pubs and clubs on infamous Tito’s Lane and attractions like the Snow Park. This area is good for budget and mid range travellers and has the best range of water sports, although the beaches can get pretty crowded in the peak tourist season.

Candolim lies under the shadow of Fort Aguada and is a more upmarket choice and less crowded but still offers easy access to all the attractions which makes it one of the best places to stay in Goa.

Anjuna Beach and Vagator Beach have smaller, more rocky beaches but are good for nightlife and where you’ll find Chapora Fort, Anjuna flea market and the infamous Goa psytrance parties and raves as well as other parties to suit all musical tastes and accommodation to suit all budgets.

In the far north are quieter upcoming Morjim Beach, Ashvem Beach, Mandrem Beach and Arambol Beach. Morjim Beach and Ashvem Beach are wide, natural beaches, once a breeding spot for rare olive ridley turtles, which are now becoming increasingly popular with the influx of new techno nightclubs, trendy boutiques and luxury accommodation.

Mandrem Beach and Arambol Beach are laid back, serene long stretches of sand with mostly budget accommodation for backpackers, hippies and yoga types. Mandrem is very quiet and the nightlife on Arambol Beach is more drum circles and jams than full on parties.

Best Places to Stay in North Goa

The taj fort aguada , candolim beach.

A luxury 5 star beach resort located in the most picturesque spot on Candolim Beach underneath Fort Aguada with stunning views over the beach.

Colourful, heritage style luxury villas are nestled in tropical gardens complete with a huge swimming pool, numerous eateries and world class hospitality. 

The resort is situated on an uncrowded part of Candolim beach but still offers easy access to explore all the action in Baga and Calangute.

Cavala Seaside Resort , Baga Beach

If your budget doesn’t stretch to the Taj then consider the Cavala Seaside Resort, a great mid range resort in a lovely heritage building just 3 minutes walk from popular Baga Beach. 

The resort has spacious and clean AC rooms, a swimming pool surrounded by tropical greenery and an excellent multi cuisine restaurant which hosts live music nights.

Cavala is only 5 minutes drive from Tito’s Lane and is also close to the nightlife in Anjuna and Vagator. 

South Goa is quieter and less developed with long, uncrowded beaches, luxury resorts and yoga retreats.

Palolem beach is one of most beautiful beaches in Goa . A white crescent beach fringed by palm trees and colourful beach huts with calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming.

The most developed beaches in South Goa are Colva beach and Varca beach. These are good places to stay with family and have plenty of budget and mid range hotels and amenities.

Majorda beach and Cavelossim beach are home to some of the finest luxury beach resorts in Goa and offer a real escape from it all. Agonda beach is also a good choice for beautiful beach front huts and is quieter than popular Palolem.

Best Places to Stay in South Goa

Alila diwa resort, majorda beach.

This elegant, Bali inspired, 5 star beach resort in Majorda has 3 excellent dining options, 2 bars, an Ayurvedic spa and luxurious contemporary rooms. 

The Alila Diwa is located right on Majorda Beach, one of the quietest and cleanest beaches in Goa, and is perfect for a peaceful stay only 30 mins drive from the airport.  

The highlight is the stunning tiered infinity pool that overlooks the green paddy fields. Stay in the Diwa Club rooms for the ultimate luxury and privacy.

Round Cube Beach Bungalows , Palolem Beach

Wooden cottages and beach huts located right on the beachfront of gorgeous Palolem Beach – the most beautiful beach in Goa. 

There’s a variety of rooms available all with AC and private attached bathrooms. The beach facing cottages, where you can soak up the ocean views and sunsets right from your room and balcony, sell out fast. 

There’s also cheaper colourful cottages just behind among the palm groves but whichever you choose, a dip in the ocean is still just a few steps from your beach hut.

Round Cube also has its own beachfront multi cuisine restaurant and bar where you can enjoy sunset cocktails and romantic candlelight dinners on the beach.

Panaji City (Panjim)

Even though Goa is most often thought of as a beach holiday destination, no guide to Goa would be complete without mentioning Panaji city, still normally referred to by its old name of Panjim, the state capital city of Goa.

While it’s not a beach resort it does have a lovely riverside setting, where you’ll find Goa’s floating casinos and river cruises, and it’s super close to Miramar Beach so if you’re looking to stay on the beach while exploring the culture of the city, the surprisingly uncrowded Miramar beach is ideal. 

Located in the middle of Goa, Panjim is a good base for culture, history and nature lovers as there’s a handy hop on hop off tourist bus that connects Panaji with Old Goa and the spice plantations, wildlife sanctuaries and waterfalls. It’s also not far from Goa international airport.

Take a stroll around Fontainhas, the colourful, old Latin Quarter, and visit the Immaculate Conception Church then try some traditional Goan cuisine and even Portuguese food in the restaurants and cafes.

Best Places to Stay in Panjim City

Vivanta goa, panaji.

The best modern luxury hotel centrally located in the city center of Panaji. The hotel offers a stunning rooftop swimming pool and views of the Mandovi River and Altinho. 

The Vivanta is within easy walking distance to both the riverside and the old latin quarter and also boasts a spa, 24 hour gym, tour desk, several great eating options and a cocktail bar.

Welcom Heritage Panjim Inn, Fontainhas

Nestled in the heart of historic Fontainhas, staying at Panjim Inn will immerse you in history. 

This charming heritage hotel offers tastefully refurbished and comfortable rooms that retain their historic character, features and furnishings.  Many are complete with four poster beds and private balconies. 

The Verandah Restaurant serves local and European cuisine and is a lovely place to sit and watch the world go by. Also check out Panjim Pousada , another great heritage hotel. 

There’s also many budget hotels and guesthouses in Goa where you can find a basic room for 1000 – 2000 INR but many are not available to book online. If you’re visiting Goa in the peak season I’d recommend booking online in advance before you come to avoid stress and disappointment of trying to find a room when you arrive.

There’s too many beaches and hotels in Goa to mention them all in this Goa travel guide. So check out my post on where to stay in Goa for more tips.

The Best Places to Visit in Goa

From beautiful beaches and colourful markets, buzzing parties to serene yoga retreats, historic churches, temples and forts, spice plantations, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries.

There’s so many places to visit and so many things to do in Goa that you probably won’t be able to fit it all in to just one trip. That’s why many people, like me, fall in love with Goa and return every year.

There are simply too many places to mention in this quick Goa travel guide, so I’ll summarise the most popular places to visit in Goa for sightseeing and then you can check out this post for more.

The Best Places to Visit in Goa for History, Culture and Sightseeing

Fontainhas, panjim’s latin quarter.

Panjim (Panaji) is not visited by as many tourists as the beaches are but no Goa travel guide would be complete without a mention of the states pretty capital city!

Panjim is a delight to explore with it’s picturesque setting on the Mandovi river, flamboyant churches and colourful Portuguese architecture. One of Goa’s most iconic and famous sights is the elaborate white Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

Don’t miss exploring the lanes of Fontainhas , the atmospheric old Latin quarter, which is full of colourful Portuguese colonial buildings, churches, cafes, bars, goan restaurants and the Gitanjali art gallery.

The best way to explore Panjim and learn about it’s unique history is with a heritage walking tour

The Churches of Old Goa

The best place to visit for sightseeing and to learn about the history of Goa are the churches of Old Goa. This was the capital of Goa when it was under Portuguese rule. It was so grand and important that it was known as ‘the Rome of the East’ and rivalled Lisbon until the city was abandoned for the new capital of Panjim in 1843.

Only the churches are left today and have been declared a UNESCO world heritage site. Highlights include Se Cathedral , the largest church in Asia, and the Basilica of Bom Jesus which houses the remains of St Francis Xavier.

Old Goa is a great place to visit if it’s your first time in Goa as it will help you to understand more about the history of Goa that makes this state so unique. The picturesque churches are also very instagrammable.

The best way to learn about the history and importance of Old Goa is by taking a guided walking tour that will really help to bring this site alive.

Fort Aguada and Chapora Fort

The Portuguese also built huge forts for defence that overlooked the ocean. Nowadays there’s not that much left of many of the forts themselves, apart from the crumbling walls, but they are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Goa due to their stunning views.

Don’t miss Fort Aguada , situated above Candolim Beach, where you can admire the impressive lighthouse and the breathtaking views out to sea.

Another popular fort is the crumbling Chapora Fort. Situated above Vagator Beach at the mouth of the Chapora River, it makes a spectacular spot to watch the sunset. It’s become quite famous since it was in the movie Dil Chati Hai .

Best Places to Visit in Goa for Nature Lovers

Spice plantations and hindu temples.

The Ponda area is Goa’s Hindu Heartland and is where you’ll find Goa spice plantations and most famous Hindu temples.

There’s a number of spice farms that you can visit to be immersed in the lush tropical greenery, learn about the plants and how many illnesses and ailments they can treat. Many have elephants that you can bathe or ride but this is cruel and shouldn’t be supported. 

The family run organic Savoi Spice Plantation is one of the oldest spice farms in Goa and doesn’t abuse elephants. Most spice plantations charge an entry fee of around 500 rupees which includes an entertaining spice plantation tour, buffet lunch and a small sample of some spices. 

You can combine a visit to a spice plantation with visiting some of Goa’s most famous Hindu temples like the Shantadurga Temple. The Mangueshi Temple and the Mahalsa Temple are both distinctive temples that are dedicated to Goan deities.

The best way to see the spice plantations in with a guided tour which include transport and a local lunch.

Dudhsagar Waterfall

Goa is home to many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, but the most famous place for nature lovers to visit is Dudhsagar Falls, situated in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in the Mollem district of South Goa.

Journey through the jungle with an exciting jeep ride to marvel at India’s second highest waterfall, and watch the train pass overhead while swimming in the refreshing waters. Dudhsagar Waterfall is at its fullest during monsoon, but then it’s closed to tourists due to safety corners, and there is water all year round. 

The best way to visit Dudhsagar Waterfall is with this guided tour that includes pick up from your hotel, the jeep ride to the waterfalls, a tour of a spice plantation and lunch.

If you want to immerse yourself in the jungle stay at Dudhsagar Plantation. The nature resort has its own spice plantation, nature trails and a relaxing natural swimming pool. 

Best Tours of Goa

The easiest way to explore the best places to visit in Goa is by taking a day tour. Having a local driver takes all the stress out of getting around and having a local guide really brings these places to life. The best Goa tours are:

Highlights of Goa Tour

This private full day sightseeing tour will take you to explore the highlights of Goa including the capital Panaji and the charming Latin Quarter, the UNESCO listed churches of Old Goa, an informative spice plantation visit and local lunch.

Spice Plantation and Dudhsagar Falls Tour

Get picked up from your hotel and enjoy a jeep ride through the jungle for a refreshing swim in Dudhsagar waterfall. Take a tour of the spice plantations and enjoy a delicious Goan lunch.

Check out more Goa tours on Viator and Get your Guide where you can check reviews and book online.

Best Things to do in Goa

Shop at the flea markets.

While there are endless shopping opportunities in Goa, visiting the many quirky hippie flea markets is a fun and unique experience. Don’t forget to haggle if you want to take home a bargain.

The most famous is the Anjuna Flea Market which takes place on Wednesdays on Anjuna Beach. This colourful market sells everything from hippie clothing and jewellery to Tibetan handicrafts. The Anjuna flea market was started by the hippies back in the 1970s and is now one of the popular things to do in Goa.

Another market to check out is the Arpora Saturday Night Market. This huge market is complete with live music and food stalls and is also a really good night out. There’s also a new popular Friday Night Market at Hilltop Nightclub in Vagator.

Take a Yoga Retreat or Train to be a Yoga Teacher

India is the birthplace of yoga, and Goa is one of the most popular places in the country to take a yoga class or join a week long yoga retreat. You’ll find drop in yoga classes in all styles across the state, many of which cater to beginners. 

The beaches of Palolem, Agonda and Patnem in chilled out South Goa are the best places for yoga in Goa. There are also retreats and classes in Anjuna, Assagao, Mandrem and Arambol in North Goa.

My favourite yoga retreat in Goa is Bamboo yoga retreat located right on the beach front on peaceful Patnem beach in South Goa.

Many yoga schools offer month-long intensive yoga teacher training courses. Find a full list of yoga teacher training courses in Goa here.

There are also numerous other alternative therapies and workshops to try from breathwork to tai chi to sound baths and ecstatic dance. 

You can also enjoy an Ayurvedic massage. Ayurveda is an ancient life science of plant based natural medicine that originated in Kerala but there are many ayurvedic treatments offered in Goa. Take a complete treatment course or just enjoy a nice, relaxing massage. 

Enjoy a Panjim River Cruise and Visit a Floating Casino

Panjim’s unique floating casinos on ships anchored in the Mandovi River have become popular Goa tourist attractions.

The best ones are Deltin Royale and Casino Pride . The entrance fee covers some drinks, snacks, playing chips, music and entertainment. Try your luck on the slot machines or at games like Roulette, Blackjack, Bacarrette, Stud Poker and Rummy.  Check out this article for more info on Goa’s casinos.

There’s several options for a Panjim river cruise including sunset cruises, backwater houseboat cruises, party cruises and dinner cruises with entertainment. You can book the paradise dinner cruise here. You can even book a private party boat to celebrate a special occasion.

Visit Some of Goa’s Wildlife Sanctuaries

Goa has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. The largest one in Mollem is home to Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary which contains Goa’s oldest temple and Dudhsagar falls.

The Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary , near Panjim, offers a unique experience of traveling through the mangroves in a canoe to reach the bird watching tower.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, near Palolem Beach, is where you can climb up a towering tree house for amazing views over the jungle and your chance to spot wildlife.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a complete jungle resort with a zoo, deer safari park, botanical gardens and nature interpretation center. It’s located near Ponda so you could combine this with a visit to a spice plantation. 

Explore the Colonial Mansions in Chandor

Chandor, in South Goa, was once the most spectacular city on the Konkan Coast . Some of the once grand colonial Portuguese mansions are now a shadow of their former glory but visiting Chandor is still an interesting place for those interested in history and architecture.

A highlight is the Menezes Braganza House which was built in the 17th century. This large house is now divided in two and you can see the contrasts between the grand and decrepit in one house and listen to the stories from the owner’s family feuds. The Figueiredo Mansion and the Palácio do Deão are also fascinating to visit.

The best way to visit the Portuguese mansions is on this South Goa Heritage Trail Tour. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to explore 3 Portuguese mansions as well the interesting Goa Chitra Museum.

If you want to immerse yourself in this unique history you can even stay in the Figueiredo Mansion which has been tastefully and lovingly refurbished into a wonderful heritage homestay.

More Exciting Activities to Try in Goa

The fun doesn’t stop at the beach, as well as watersports and boat trips there’s plenty of other exciting activities to try in Goa.

You can paraglide off the cliffs down to the beach if the conditions are right. Taking an ebike tour of offbeat Divar Island  or kayaking on the backwaters is a serene way to experience a different side to Goa. 

Thrill seekers might want to do a Bungy Jump and couples can treat themselves to a romantic experience of hoovering high above the palm trees with a hot air balloon ride.

Nightlife and Parties in Goa

No Goa travel guide would be complete without mentioning Goa’s nightlife scene.

Goa is famous as one of the best places to party in India and one of the hottest party spots in the whole world! Experiencing Goa’s legendary nightlife scene is a must when visiting Goa.

Goa is famous for it’s psytrance parties that started during the hippie days, but nowadays there’s something to suit everyone – from beach parties and live music jams to thumping nightclubs, trendy bars, lively pubs and fun night markets.

Some of the most lively bars, pubs and nightclubs in Goa can be found on Tito’s Lane in Baga , a lively strip of buzzing bars and nightclubs just off popular Baga Beach. There’s also LPK Waterfront and SinQ nightclub in Candolim.

Anjuna and Vagator also have epic beach parties and raves, check out the famous Curlies beach shack on Anjuna Beach or Hilltop nightclub in Vagator for crazy psychedelic rave parties.  Ashvem and Morjim are home to classy nightclubs and party resorts like Marbella Beach Resort.

South Goa is much quieter at night but there are silent headphone discos in Palolem and Leopard Valley is South Goa’s most happening party spot.

New Yea r in Goa is celebrated with fireworks on the beach and some of the most epic parties. Check out my tips for partying in Goa at New Year here.

There’s too many party places in Goa to mention them all in this Goa travel guide.  See more of my nightlife tips here and download the Party Hunt App or check out What’s Up Goa to find out what’s on.

It’s difficult to keep a Goa travel guide updated with all the best party places as they change and move every season but you can keep up to date with what’s happening on Goa nightlife social media groups.

You should also be aware though that Goa’s parties often get shut down or limited to an early closing time. This happens for various reasons but especially around election times when code of conduct comes in.

Best Restaurants in Goa

Goa is home to some amazing restaurants, from cheap and cheerful beach shacks to fine dining restaurants that serve up delicious seafood, traditional Goan cuisine, Indian cuisine and food from all over the world.

There’s too many great restaurants in Goa to mention them all in this Goa travel guide so here’s just some of my favourites . Check out my blog post on the best restaurants in Goa for more recommendations.

You’ll find the best traditional and authentic Goan food in Panjim. Hotel Venite has been serving Goan cuisine since 1955 and is one of the most charming restaurants in Panjim’s latin quater. Sit on the little balconies and watch the world by while sampling Goan cuisine.

Another must try is  Mum’s Kitchen , an award winning Goan restaurant famous for it’s seafood and for preserving traditional Goan family recipes. Viva Panjim is another top choice.

For South Indian food try Gunpowder , in Assagao, regarded as the best South Indian restaurant in Goa Experience the flavours and tastes of their curries, dosas and idlis in a classy garden ambience .

Fisherman’s Wharf , in Cavelossim, South Goa and on Panjim riverside, is one of the best seafood restaurants in Goa. Located on the waterfront with stunning sea views and delicious seafood. 

Thalassa, situated on the banks of the Chapora River in Sioilm, is a Greek restaurant with amazing views over the water. With stunning sunsets, delicious Greek food and live performances and fire shows, it’s become one of the most famous and popular restaurants in Goa. You must book in advance in peak season to reserve your table. See their website to know more and reserve your table.

Artjuna is a super cute cafe in Anjuna that serves up great Israeli and Mediterranean dishes in a relaxed courtyard garden cafe setting.

Beach shacks are some of the best places to eat in Goa and range from cheap and cheerful to gourmet international cuisine.

Pousada by the Beach, part of the Pousada Tauma Hotel, is my top choice for upscale beach front dining in popular Calangute. Pousada serves a great selection of traditional Goan and Konkani cuisine as well as great pastas and salads in a peaceful spot right on Goa’s most popular beach.

La Plage on Ashvem Beach is a gourmet French restaurant with an amazing beach front location that is consistently regarded as one of the very best restaurants in Goa. 

Zeebop is one of the most best beach shacks in South Goa. It’s location, on the pristine, white sands of Utorda make it a great place for long lazy lunch or sunset drinks. Not surprisingly the seafood is a highlight.

How Long to Spend in Goa

It’s difficult to say how long you should spend in Goa. For me, a lifetime is not enough ! The laid back lifestyle and beautiful beaches have a way of making many people want to stay forever.

There’s plenty of things to do in Goa to spend 1 or 2 weeks , but I know that not everyone has so much vacation time. As a minimum I’d spend at least 3 days in Goa just to get a taste of what Goa has to offer. 4 or 5 days in Goa is better though because then you can see the highlights of both north and south.

It’s only a few hours drive between North Goa and South Goa so for the perfect holiday you could spend a few days in both. Enjoy partying in North Goa, relaxing on the beaches in South Goa and take a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa to see everything Goa has to offer in one trip.

Follow my 3 day Goa itinerary to see all of Goa’s highlights in a short trip.

How to Get to Goa

Dabolim International Airport (GOI) is located roughly in the middle of the state and the new airport at Mopa (GOX) in the far north of Goa opened in January 2023.

Goa is well connected with most major Indian cites like Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai. In the season time there are direct charter flights from the UK, Europe and Russia to Goa’s international airport.

International tourists can also fly into Mumbai’s (BOM) or Delhi (DEL) and connect to a domestic flight from there. Mumbai offers the quickest, cheapest and most frequent flights to Goa with direct flights only taking about 1 hour from 2,000 INR.

Goa is also easy to reach by rail. Trains from Mumbai to Madgaon ( Margao) the main train station for Goa take between 9 – 12 hours. Just make sure to book tickets well in advance because seats sell out quickly. The easiest way to do this online is with 12Go Asia.

Madgoan or Margao is roughly in the middle of South Goa and the closest beach is Benaulim only 5km away. North Goa’s beaches are not so well connected by rail.

Other useful train stations in Goa include Vasco da Gama (closest to the airport)  Canacona (for Palolem and the far South) Thivim and Pernem (for North Goa) or Karmali (near Old Goa and the closest to the capital Panjim)

If you can’t get a train ticket there’s also buses and sleeper buses which take about 12 – 14 hours from Mumbai to Goa but the train is much more comfortable and the flight much quicker. Book at 12Go Asia.

How to Get Around Goa

The best way to get from the airport to your hotel is by using the pre paid taxi stand at the airport. Uber is not permitted in Goa.

There is an app based taxi service called Goa Miles but international tourists will find it hard to use unless you have an Indian phone number and bank account. Besides out of the main cities the coverage is not good.

There are public buses in Goa but the bus and train network isn’t really convenient for getting to the beaches or attractions.  The buses connect the villages to the towns like Margao, Mapusa and Panjim but getting between beaches and attractions sometimes requires alot of changes if you wanted to get from Arambol to Palolem for example.

There’s not so many rickshaws as you find in the rest of India and still no Uber in Goa so taxis charge a ridiculous price. There is a new Hop on Hop off open air tourist bus service that connects the most popular North Goa beaches and Panjim with Old Goa and the temples and spice plantations around Ponda.

So the best way to explore Goa is to rent a car, scooter or motorbike . Most hotels and guesthouses will be able to arrange this but be careful as the narrow country roads around the beaches were not built for so much traffic.

International tourists will need to show an international driving permit as well as their normal driving license if stopped by the police.

How to Get an Indian Visa

Nearly all nationalities (apart from citizens of Bhutan, Nepal and the Maldives) must apply for an Indian tourist visa before arriving.

An E-Visa is available for most nationalities including the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand and most European countries, but you do need to apply online before you travel to India. Get your e-visa on the official government website here.

Covid Entry Requirements

As of 22nd November 2022 India is fully open for international tourists and all covid-19 restrictions have been removed.

International arrivals no longer need to submit an online self declaration form or upload a vaccine certificate or negative covid test here before departure. It’s best to stay up to date and check the latest covid news and arrival guidelines here

More Goa Guides and Blog Posts

So that’s it for this Goa guide – I hope you found it useful! I have many more Goa blog posts and Goa travel guides to help you plan your trip to Goa:

• 3 Day Goa Itinerary
• Offbeat places and things to do in Goa
• A Guide to Goa’s Nightlife and Parties
• A Guide to Yoga in Goa.
• Panjim (Panaji) Travel Guide

7 Tips for Eco Friendly and Sustainable Travel in Europe

The best yoga and ayurveda retreats in kerala, india .

Related posts

The ancient and erotic temples of khajuraho: more than the kama sutra, 5 best places to stay in mumbai (for all budgets), where to stay in bali: best areas & hotels (insider’s tips for 2024).

Best description of Goa Goa is best in December & january Specially from 25 dec to 2 january

Actually this is the busiest time and worst time to visit Goa because of the high prices and traffic jams. There are parties at other times of the year anyway

Thanks for the goa You included everything. Keep travelling

Awesome post! Goa is just an amazing travel destination, I really like to this article it’s very interesting and informative. The pictures are very beautiful, thanks for your amazing travel guide. Your photos are mind-blowing.

Also E-Visa has been restored for Uk vistiors as from Dec 2022

What about the last two weeks of Oct? Do you recommend Goa? Are shaks opened yet? And parties?

Late October is a bit of a gamble – it could still be very rainy so the beach shacks and parties don’t normally open until late November – early December.

Thanks for the guide Anna. This year I missed Goa Trip but not next time.

That’s a shame – hope you get to visit Goa again soon!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Yes, send me the newsletter.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Goa Dabolim International Airport Guide

Top Places to Visit in Goa

72 Hours in Goa

Day Trips From Goa

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Yoga Retreats and Wellness Resorts

Top Restaurants in Goa

Nightlife in Goa

Your Trip to Goa: The Complete Guide

Let's face it. Most people visit Goa for the beaches and parties. However, there's plenty more to experience. The Portuguese occupied Goa for about 450 years until the Indian Armed Forces finally drove them out in 1961.   The state was also a significant destination on the 1970s hippie trail. As a result, it's quite unlike anywhere else in India and has a distinctly different culture. This Goa guide will help plan your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Goa's tourist season runs from October to March, when the weather is warm and dry. Most beach shacks open in November. They pack up by April or May due to the extreme heat and humidity. The southwest monsoon brings rain from June to September.
• Language: Konkani is the native language of most Goans, however, English and Hindi are widely understood and spoken.  
• Currency: Indian rupee.
• Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. Goa does not observe daylight saving time.
• Getting Around: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are the most common methods of transportation. Unfortunately, the notorious Goan taxi mafia keeps fares high and prevents app-based cabs such as Uber from operating. There is a state-run, app-based taxi service called GoaMiles . The Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus is an inexpensive way of reaching Goa's tourist attractions. Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is popular and affordable.
• Travel Tip: The monsoon season in Goa is ideal for spending time in the state's mountainous interior hinterland. White water rafting is possible.

Things to Do

Most people are surprised at how many things there are to do in Goa apart from the beach and nightlife. This includes water sports and adventure activities , hot air ballooning, cooking lessons, exploring old forts, seeing the spice plantations, browsing museums and art galleries, bird watching at Doctor Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, hiking in the nature reserves, yoga and natural therapies, cruising along the Mandovi River in a private yacht , betting at the casinos , listening to live jazz music, and of course shopping. Active travelers can go on these off-beat electric bicycle tours or walking tours .

Three of the main things to do in Goa are:

• Hanging out at the Wednesday flea market at Anjuna beach, Friday Goa Collective Bazaar at Hilltop near Vagator, and Saturday Night Market at Arpora (between Anjuna and Baga). These markets are seasonal.
• Wandering around Old Goa and the Fontainhas Latin Quarter .
• Touring the Portuguese mansions in South Goa .

Find out more about the top places to visit in Goa and cultural things to do in Goa beyond the beaches .

What to Eat and Drink

Goan cuisine was influenced mainly by the Portuguese and is predominantly non-vegetarian. Lesser-known is the traditional cuisine of the state's Hindu Saraswat Brahmin community. Fish curry and rice is a ubiquitous staple in Goa. Common types of dishes you'll find on the menu are xacutti (coconut-based curry), cafreal (marinated and fried/grilled), sorpotel (stew), recheado (stuffed), ambot tik (sour and spicy), and vindaloo (fiery curry marinated with garlic and vinegar or wine). Goan chourico (sausages) and pao (bread) are popular as well. However, you'll need to venture away from the beach shacks to get authentic Goan food.

Feni is Goa's pungent local brew and the unofficial state drink. It's made from cashew fruit or the sap of coconut palms. Drink it with tonic water or lemonade and a slice of lime. Avoid cheap, commercially produced feni though, as it has a distinctively unpleasant smell. Instead, try and get your hands on some home-distilled feni ( Dudhsagar Plantation Farmstay makes their own). Or, a bottle of premium Big Boss or  Cazulo feni. It's now possible to go straight to the source of Cazulo feni, as the company has opened its cellar in the Cansaulim foothills for tours and tastings. Call 8605-008-185 to book. Joseph Bar in Panjim's Fontainhas Latin Quarter crafts some innovative feni cocktails. On the beach, King's beer goes well with a curry.

Explore the best Goan cuisine restaurants for all budgets and hottest bars and beach shacks in Goa .

Where to Stay

Goa's coastline extends for about 100 miles. Every beach is different , and there are so many types of accommodations ranging from beach huts to luxury private villas. It can be confusing! If you're looking for action, base yourself in North Goa because South Goa is relatively undeveloped and laid-back. Most of the luxury hotels are situated in South Goa. Palolem is the most happening beach in South Goa, while Agonda is ideal for chilling out and doing nothing. Patnem offers a bit of both. In North Goa, the Candolim-Calangute- Baga stretch of beaches is especially commercialized and gets super crowded during peak season. Backpacker hostels are prevalent near Anjuna beach, and the famous Wednesday flea market takes place there as well. The remaining psychedelic trance scene exists around Vagator beach, the Mandrem-Morjim-Ashwem stretch of beaches has become quite trendy, while Arambol beach is the new traveler's center with a wide range of alternative therapies. Capital city Panjim is centrally located between north and south Goa. Its Fontainhas Latin Quarter is an atmospheric neighborhood to stay in a restored Portuguese mansion.

Discover Goa's best homestays, budget accommodations, and yoga retreats, and wellness resorts .

Getting There

Goa has one airport. It's an international airport that operates out of a military airbase in Dabolim, roughly equal distance from Goa's north and south beaches. Most people take a prepaid taxi from the airport to their hotel. There's a counter in the arrivals terminal where you can book and pay. A shuttle bus service also runs from the airport to Panjim, Calangute, and Margao. It can be booked online here or at the airport.

Indian Railways train is another option for getting to Goa. It's handy for budget travelers, and conveniently has multiple stops in north and south Goa. The stretch from Mumbai to Goa along the Konkan Railway is particularly scenic. Here are the best trains from Mumbai to Goa .

Culture and Customs

Goa is more liberal than other states in India. This means women can wear short dresses and bikinis on the beach. There's no need to dress conservatively.

Scams are common in Goa, including the infamous gem scam . Beware of any Indian guys who try to befriend you. People offering to sell you drugs may also approach you. Don't accept, as dealers often have arrangements with the police. The police are corrupt and will extort money from tourists found in possession of illegal substances such as marijuana. The cops often demand bribes for traffic violations too. If you hire a motorcycle or scooter, make sure you carry your license with you and wear a helmet at all times.

While Goa has a reputation for being a party hub there are very strict drug laws. Those caught with drugs could face jail times of 6 months to 30 years and there is no option for bail.  

Money-Saving Tips

• Hotels offer huge discounts of up to 50 percent during the low season from May to September.
• There are many budget accommodations in Goa that don't advertise on the Internet. If you're not traveling during peak season (mid-December to mid-January), turn up and find a place and negotiate the rate.
• Stay in a dorm or private room in a backpacker hostel.
• Keep an eye out for happy hours and ladies' nights at bars for cheap or free drinks.
• Make sure you bargain at markets to get a good deal.

Encyclopedia Britannica. "Portuguese India."

Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Languages."

Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Laws."

12 Cultural Things to Do in Goa Beyond the Beaches and Bars

12 Irresistible Luxury Private Villas in Goa for Groups

Goa in the Monsoon Season: Essential Travel Guide

Palolem Beach Goa: Essential Travel Guide

How to Travel From Mumbai to Goa by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

The 14 Best Beaches in India

Essential South Goa Travel Guide

The 13 Best Beaches in Goa

Patnem Beach Goa: Essential Travel Guide

The Best Time to Visit Goa

72 Hours in Goa: The Perfect Itinerary

25 of the Hottest Clubs, Bars and Beach Shacks in Goa

Your Ultimate Trip to India: The Complete Guide

India Travel: Issues to Know at Top Tourist Places

12 Goan Cuisine Restaurants in Goa for All Budgets

• 2 Weeks for Couple
• 2 Weeks for Family
• Thailand Lantern Festival
• Indonesia(Bali)
• South Korea
• China (HK, Taiwan)
• Itinerary Ideas
• Asia Highlights Travel Reviews
• Thailand Travel Reviews
• Vietnam Travel Reviews
• Cambodia Travel Reviews
• Japan Travel Reviews
• Myanmar Travel Reviews
• China Travel Reviews

Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Goa & Rainy Season (2024/2025)

Goa is a popular beach destination in India. As it is affected by the monsoon from June to October, the best times to visit Goa are from November to April with less rain and better weather.

The Best Times to Visit Goa

The worst time to visit goa, monthly weather in goa, monsoon season in goa (june to october), dry season in goa (november to february), hot season in goa (march to may).

While the best times to visit Goa are from November to April weatherwise, this can depend on your Goa holiday purposes, budget, and weather preferences.

For the finest weather conditions , sightseeing experiences, and water activity conditions, December to February is the best period. You can expect a prefect beach time with sunny, dry, and warm weather.

For the best times to visit Goa for your honeymoon or family trip , consider November to early December and March to April. These are times with relatively few tourists and good weather. Of course, December to February is also a great time if you don't mind crowds.

You can expect lower prices from May to October, which is the rainy season, with 30–50% off offered by many hotels and flights.

If you are thinking about an India trip, just contact us and we would be glad to share advice on the perfect timings and activities for you.

Get inspiration from our itinerary ideas for 10 days , and  2 weeks  or contact us to tailor-make one just for you!

For a good travel experience, June to August is best avoided, as these months see extremely heavy rain (0.5–1 meters of rain per month!) with less than 4 hours of sunshine per day and averaging 20 rainy days each month. Torrential rain storms are accompanied by strong winds.

Many attractions like national parks and restaurants will close during this period.

If you want a favorable price and don't want to be affected so much by the rains, you may consider traveling in May, September, and October, which are at the transition months of the monsoon with only moderate to high rainfall and around 10 days of rain per month.

Frequent showers and occasional hurricanes hit Goa during its monsoon season. June to August suffer huge quantities rainfall, and June/July is the peak.

The abundant rainfall makes the Dudhsagar Waterfalls flow at their most spectacular. In June, there will be one of the important festivals in Goa — Sao Joao Festival. People jump into streams, wells, and ponds, which signifies the happiness of St John the Baptist when Jesus was born, and they pray for a good monsoon and harvest.

The rainy season in Goa might discourage some people from going on holiday there, but during this period, Goa is relatively cool at 29°C (84°F) compared to the 35°C (95°F) temperatures in other parts of India, so many locals choose to escape the heat there.

Lower prices, few tourists, and lush shades of green are the advantages of traveling in Goa in the monsoon if you don't mind the disruption of your plans by storms. What you should note is that on heavy rainy days with strong winds, some attractions and restaurants close.

Goa's dry season features comfortable summer temperatures and clear, sunny weather. It is the best time of the year to visit Goa.

The perfect weather is suitable to for all kinds of sightseeing and activities, like swimming, snorkeling, hiking, photography, and more.

In Christmas and New Year, Goa will be embraced by a strong festival atmosphere. The sound of carols echoes from the walls of the churches. Parties on the beach and bars, music, and fireworks are also indispensable elements of the celebrations.

Accordingly, the perfect weather brings a rise in prices. Accommodation is in high demand, especially from late December to February. If you are planning a trip in this peak season, it is better to book one or two months in advance.

Get some inspiration about  How to Plan an Affordable Luxury Trip to India .

In Goa's hot season, you can expect less crowding than during the dry season and rainless weather until late May. This is also a good time to visit Goa, especially between March and April.

Most of the time is suitable for water activities, sunbathing, and sightseeing. At the end of May there is some monsoon influence, but not much.

One of Goa's biggest festivals, Shigmo Festival (Goa's version of Holi) falls in March or April. The processions with traditional Goan dances and modern floats are the highlight.

You can expect reasonable prices during this period. Heat averaging 33°C (91°F) in the middle of the day is an unavoidable element of the hot season. Remember to bring some sun protection. It could be a good idea to wait to go out until after 3 or 4 pm.

You Might Like to Read

• Best (and Worst) Times to Visit India 2024, Best Places to Go in Each Month
• Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Delhi & Where to Go
• Best Times to Visit the Taj Mahal: Expert Tips in 2024
• Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Varanasi & Rainy Season

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Touring India with Us

Discover India through our unique tours with award-winning guides and 1:1 help from a dedicated India expert every step of the way.

Tell us your interests and needs , and we will create a wonderful trip for you. We are looking forward to helping you discover you authentic and colorful India.

• 11-Day India Highlights and Goa Honeymoon Trip
• 12-Day Family Holiday in India
• More India tours

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 7-Day India Golden Triangle Tour
• 9-Day India Tiger Safari and Golden Triangle Tour
• 14-Day India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour
• 11-Day India and Nepal Tour
• India Itineraries 2024: from 5 Days to 1 Month
• 2 Weeks in India 2024/2025: Top 4 Itineraries
• How to Plan Your First Trip to India 2024/2025
• Plan an Awesome Trip to India, Bhutan and Nepal (6 Tips)
• Weather and Where to Go in India in Janurary 2025
• Weather and Places to Go in India in February 2025
• Weather and Places to Go in India in March 2025
• India Weather & Best Places to Visit in April 2024
• Weather in India in May 2024 & Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in India in June 2024: Temperatures & Places to Visit
• Weather in India in July 2024: Temperatures & Places to Visit
• Weather in India in August 2024: Temperatures & Places to Visit
• September Weather in India & Tips (Places+Crowds) 2024
• October Weather in India & Tips (Places+Crowds) 2024
• Weather and Where to Go in India in November 2024
• Weather in India in December 2024 & Tips for First Visits

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Our Differences
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

• Destinations
• Hotels & Homestays
• Food & Drink
• People & Culture
• Mindful Travel
• Readers' Travel Awards
• Escape to Rajasthan
• READERS TRAVEL AWARDS
• #LOVEGREATBRITAIN
• TAJ SAFARIS
• BOUTIQUE HOTELS
• CNT TOP RESTAURANT AWARDS
• DESTINATION WEDDING GUIDE
• DON’T TRAVEL WITHOUT IT
• #UNDISCOVERAUSTRALIA
• ESSENTIALLY RAJASTHAN

The best time to visit Goa

By Arundhati Ail

Most people consider Goa for a year-end beach vacation, but the state has become a year-round destination over the years, with different seasons offering different experiences to tourists. The best time to visit Goa really depends on what you want from your trip. There’s a lot to the destination beyond beaches: local tavernas, exciting street food , monsoon treks, hidden waterfalls, and homestays on quiet beaches. Plan wisely and you can explore a side to Goa that isn’t all over Instagram . Here’s a handy guide on the best time to visit Goa.

Jump to: The best time to visit Goa Temperature in Goa Is monsoon a good time to visit Goa? The cheapest time to visit Goa The best time to surf in Goa Which is better: North or South Goa? How many days are enough for a Goa trip? Is Goa good to visit with family? Plan your stay

What is the best time to visit Goa?

The best time to visit Goa is from November to February. The heat and humidity give way to more pleasant sunny days by December, and the waves are gentler during this time. December also brings the Christmas spirit to several local homes, and bakeries and decades-old stores stock up on Christmas sweets like kalkal, dodol and neureos. This is also peak tourist season in Goa, which means hotel and flight prices shoot up at this time. While most people visit Goa in December, January brings better weather and slightly lesser crowds.

Temperatures begin to rise from March, with summer settling in by April. The months between March and June see hot sunny days, with the mercury climbing to 35°C. If the heat and humidity doesn’t bother you, you can still make the most of a trip to Goa during this time by planning any sightseeing and beach visits either early in the morning or in the evening. June to September is monsoon in Goa and the state experiences heavy rainfall. Frequent showers make beach visits difficult, but also offer the opportunity to experience the state’s offbeat natural experiences.

Temperature in Goa

March to May: 25°C-35°C June to October: 24°C-30°C November to February: 20°C-30°C

Is monsoon a good time to visit Goa?

Monsoon is an underrated time to visit Goa and is best for folks with a sense of adventure and a love for the unmanicured outdoors. Monsoon brings beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery to the Western Ghats. You can trek through forests to find natural pools and falls, hike through the thriving forest of Mollem National Park, take rainy boat rides in the mangroves and enjoy seasonal seafood and vegetable preparations beyond recheado and cafreal.

What is the cheapest time to visit Goa?

The monsoon season is off-season and therefore the cheapest time to visit Goa. Expect flight and hotel prices to drop during this time. However, remember that you may not be able to lounge on the beach or visit shacks in the monsoon. Many beach shacks, outdoor restaurants and hotels shut for the season.

What’s the best time to surf in Goa?

“The best months to learn surfing in Goa are from October to March,” says Arun Vasu, President of the Surfing Federation of India. “During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the conditions in the sea are generally favourable for beginners. Monsoon, which lasts from June to September, is not recommended for learning due to the unpredictable and rough sea conditions.” There are several surf schools in Goa, including Surf Wala in Arambol, Octopus Surf in Morjim and Vaayu Kula in Mandrem. More on where to learn surfing in Goa here

Which is better: North or South Goa?

This depends on what kind of trip you’re looking for. North Goa typically sees more tourist crowds and consists of neighbourhoods like Panaji, Assagao , Anjuna, Baga and Calangute, which are home to several buzzing restaurants and bars. While beaches like Baga and Calangute are typically full of tourists, North Goa does have less crowded beaches such as Mandrem, Ashwem and Morjim. If you would prefer to steer clear of large tourist crowds, South Goa is a quieter option, with beaches like Palolem, Varca and Colva.

How many days are enough for a Goa trip?

Three to four days are enough for a Goa trip in either North or South Goa. If you plan to spend time in both parts of Goa, it’s best to add a day or two to your trip so you get to explore the best of both. When in Goa, go bar-hopping in Panaji , visit old local churches and bakeries, spend long, lazy days on the beach and go shopping at quaint boutique stores.

Is Goa good to visit with family?

There are several family and kid-friendly activities in Goa. Families will enjoy watersports, visits to museums and heritage trails in Panaji. Responsible adventure company Konkan Explorers can organise kayaking programs and yacht cruises for groups, coupled with open water swimming if the weather and tides permit. If you’re travelling with kids , try boat trips, art walks and workshops with Make It Happen and surf lessons.

Plan your stay:

The best hotels in Goa Boutique hotels in North Goa The best restaurants in North Goa Boutique hotels in South Goa The best restaurants in South Goa What to do in Goa in the monsoon The best sundowner places in Goa Homestays in Anjuna , Moira , near Dudhsagar , Galgibaga Villas to book in Goa

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Insider’s Guide to Goa: The Ultimate Goa Travel Guide

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

This article is an insider's travel guide to Goa, India that contains a comprehensive Goa travel guide for first-time visitors as well as returning visitors to Goa.

Goa is a phenomenal beach destination that is a crowd favourite among Indians and foreigners alike. Even though Goa is known for the buzzing beaches, cheap alcohol, raging parties, and scores of people thronging towards the beaches, this is just a tourist's perception of Goa. The real Goa is a much more laidback, serene and not to mention, hauntingly beautiful place.

Thus, having lived in Goa for over 13 years now, I've put together my insider's guide to Goa in order to show you the real Goa - one that is known to tourists and also, the other side which is known to locals. I hope you enjoy reading my comprehensive Goa travel guide.

Additionally, if you have any queries or if you think I missed out on something, feel free to drop a comment below or reach out to me via direct messaging on Instagram ( @thespicyjourney ).

Table of Contents

Insider’s Travel Guide to Goa

My insider’s travel guide to Goa contains all the information about Goa that will help you plan your entire Goa trip on your own. I understand that as a first time visitor, doing research on a particular location can get overwhelming. And so, I've put together all the information on Goa in one place for you.

This Goa travel guide has information on all the beaches, places to visit in Goa, a list of extra activities you can indulge in, references to offbeat things to do in Goa, nightlife, flea markets, and lots more. So without further ado, dive right in.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Basic Info about Goa

How many days to spend in goa, how to reach goa, best time to visit goa, goa trip cost, where to stay in goa.

• Goa Toursim Hotels

Budget Hotels in Goa

Goa beach shacks, resorts in goa, getting around goa, what to wear in goa, best places to visit in goa for sightseeing, things to do in goa - list of activities, best beaches in goa, where to eat in goa, nightlife in goa, goa flea markets, events and festivals in goa, goa travel itinerary.

• Insider's Travel Guide to Goa
• Language : Konkani is the local language of Goa. Apart from that, English is widely spoken here. Keep in mind that locals aren't well-versed in Hindi.
• ATMS : There are ample ATMs in the cities. However, finding ATMs may be difficult in the villages and in areas farther away from the main cities.
• Petrol Pumps : The situation with petrol pumps is the same as that with ATMs.
• Currency Exchange : You will find counters at the Goa International Airport and various exchange shops in the cities as well as in the tourist hot-spot areas.

The answer depends on how much of Goa you want to see. In order to explore all of Goa in-depth, you will need at least 10-14 days in Goa. However, you can cover the major sightseeing spots in Goa within 3-4 days.

My personal suggestion is that you should spend 5-7 days in Goa to get its feel and cover some of the major sightseeing spots, beaches and everything else that Goa has to offer.

Goa is the most popular beach destination in India. Thousands of tourists - local as well as foreigners arrive in Goa on a daily basis. Thus, Goa is very well connected by flights, trains and road.

Goa has one airport - the Goa International Airport which is located at Dabolim in South Goa. The Goa airport has direct flights flying between Goa and major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata, to name a few. Furthermore, the airport connects Goa to many international cities as well. Both Panjim and Margao cities are located at a distance of roughly 27 km from the Goa airport in opposite directions.

Goa has 3 main railway stations - Margao, Vasco-da-Gama and Thivim. Margao railway station in South Goa is the main hub which is connected by an extensive railway network to other parts of India. Margao or Madgaon railway station to Panaji is a distance of roughly 37 km.

One can very easily find buses to Goa from metropolitan cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad etc on the redbus website. Moreover, there are state run buses such as Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC), Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), and Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) between Goa and neighbouring states of Karnataka and Maharashtra. Alternatively, taking a road trip to Goa from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu is an option that many tourists prefer to take. The drive to Goa is scenic and there are many beautiful stops along the way.

Goa has two main seasons - the tourist season (also known as the “on” season) between October and April and the monsoon season (or the “off” season) from May to September.

The dry or the “on” season is the best time to visit Goa. This is when beach shacks are set up across most beaches in Goa, lots of events and festivals going on and the entire place is a gala feast. Plan a Goa trip during the “on” season if you want to attend events, parties and meet other travellers.

On the other hand, the monsoon season is a time when most of the Goa beaches are nearly empty and there’s very little going on. This is the time to visit Goa is you’re looking for greenery and peace and quiet.

So how much will a Goa trip cost you? The answer completely depends on how flexible your budget is.

If you’re looking to make a budget trip to Goa, then staying at hostels, eating at authentic Goan restaurants and taking local buses to get around Goa will save you a whole lot of money.

If you have a mid-range budget then you can very easily find budget and mid-range hotels in Goa. You can hire a two-wheeler instead of a cab and eat at mid-range restaurants.

On the other hand, if you're willing to splurge then you can stay at a nice resort, eat at upscale restaurants and travel around Goa in a hired cab.

Goa, being a popular backpacking destination, has many-a backpacker hostels scattered throughout the state. Most hostels in Goa are located in North Goa - near Vagator, Anjuna, Candolim and Arambol. Similarly, there are hostels at the popular beaches in South Goa as well. A bed in a dorm will typically cost between INR 400 and INR 800.

Goa Tourism Hotels

If you’re looking for hotels that provide the bare minimum comfort and amenities on a limited budget, then look into the Goa tourism hotels. There are hotels run by the state government located in Panaji, Old Goa, Calangute, Mapusa, Colva and a few other places in Goa. Book rooms at the Goa tourism hotels on the GTDC website .

Despite Goa being a popular tourist destination in India, there’s no dearth of budget hotels in Goa. You can find budget stays in every location in Goa - be it South Goa or North Goa. One way to look for budget hotels in Goa is on a site like booking.com. If not that, you can even find rooms on airbnb at low costs. Sign up to Airbnb using my referral code to get a juicy discount on your first stay.

Find hotels in Goa on Booking.com

O3 Beach Resort, Palolem Beach, Goa

The Goa beach shacks are a ubiquitous choice of stay in Goa. While beach shacks can be found at almost every beach in Goa, it’s the Palolem beach shacks that are predominantly popular in Goa. Read my comprehensive breakdown of the Palolem beach huts in my blog post on Palolem beach.

Check availability at O3 Beach Resort on Booking.com

The infinity pool at Doubletree by Hilton, Panaji, Goa

While North Goa has quite a few resorts, I highly recommend staying at a resort in South Goa. This is due to the fact that South Goa sees a fewer number of visitors as compared to North Goa which makes staying there all the more peaceful and serene. That being said, there are peaceful hotels in North Goa as well. Take Doubletree by Hilton Panaji for example (shown in the picture above). This hotel, located on the outskirts of Panjim, has sweeping views of the Goan rivers and islands as seen from the infinity pool and rooms. Moreover, the two restaurants here serve all sorts of International, Indian and Goan cuisine.

Check availability at DoubleTree by Hilton Panaji on Booking.com

Hiring a two-wheeler is the most popular and budget-friendly way to get around Goa. it’s a well-known and unfortunate fact that taxi prices in Goa are sky-high. This is the reason why renting a two-wheeler is an affordable and rather fun way to see Goa. A scooter typically costs INR 200-250 for a day whereas renting a motorbike such as Royal Enfield for a day will cost above INR 300. In case you need a taxi service at affordable rates, install the GoaMiles app to book a taxi instantly.

Unlike most of North India, you have the freedom to wear whatever you like in Goa. There are no restrictions on clothing items when it comes to choosing what to wear in Goa. While at the beaches, you can wear a bikini and shorts or short skirts, while sightseeing you can wear maxi dresses, knee-length skirts, trousers and fancy tops. Read my handy little guide on what to wear in Goa for women and girls.

1. Visit the Forts in Goa

Before the Portuguese invaded Goa in the 1500s, Goa was under the rule of the Muslim ruler Adil Shah. While Adil Shah built a number of forts for himself, after the Portuguese takeover, they modified some forts to suit their needs. Thus every fort in Goa has a rich cultural and architectural significance. Chapora Fort , Aguada Fort , Tiracol Fort, and Reis Magos Fort are the forts located in North Goa. On the other hand, Cabo de Rama Fort is a well-known fort located in the South Goa district. Each of these forts offers spectacular views of the ocean. While Chapora fort and Cabo de Rama fort don’t have any timings, since they are cliff-top ruined forts, Aguada fort and Reis Magos fort are open from the morning till 5.30 pm in the evening. Tiracol Fort, on the contrary, has been converted to the Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel . You can book a stay here to live in a palace, dine with insane ocean views and to escape the hustle-bustle of the crowds.

Check availability at Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel on Booking.com

2. Take a Ferry Boat to an Island

Divar Island near Old Goa

Most tourists coming to Goa think of it as a beach destination. While this may be true, there is lots more to do in Goa that’s beyond the beaches. There are two main islands in Goa - Divar Island and Chorao Island . Both of these islands can be reached by taking a ferry from Ribandar, which lies on the road between Panaji and Old Goa. Chorao Island is famously known for the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. You can hire a little boat, watch the mangrove, spot birds and enjoy a languid boat ride in the Goan rivers.

3. Explore Waterfalls

Dudhsagar waterfall , located on the Goa-Karnataka border is a 4-tiered, 3-streamed, 320 m high waterfall. Apart from being surrounded by a lush forest, the waterfall also contains natural pools to wade into the waters. You can reach the mighty Dudhsagar waterfalls by either completing a trek to the bottom of the walls or by going via the government-approved jeep rides that start from Molem. The waterfall has been named after its milky appearance and is a worthwhile day trip from Panjim, which is located 60 km away. Other than that, there are tons of other smaller, albeit beautiful, waterfalls scattered across Goa.

4. See the Churches

Goa was under the Portuguese rule for over 450 years from the 1500’s until 19 December 1961. Due to this reason, there are striking churches scattered all across Goa. While the Panjim church and the Old Goa church are the two famous churches in Goa, it’s the offbeat ones that steal the heart away. The Mae De Deus church and the Siolim riverside chapel are both exquisite and worth exploring!

5. Visit Old Goa

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6XRlrtDVYY/

While Old Goa may be known for the Old Goa church, there is, in fact, a lot more to do in Old Goa that only the locals know about. Whether it’s a hilltop chapel with a view of the river and islands, a hauntingly beautiful ruined church complex or a restaurant right next to the river, Old Goa has lots waiting to be discovered. You can take a half-day trip to Old Goa from Panjim, which is the closest city. Take a look at my post on all the places to visit in Old Goa to discover the hidden gems of Old Goa!

6. Go Sightseeing in Panaji

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bv_uUgmDBkh/

Panjim or Panaji is the ever-lively capital city of Goa. While one might wonder if there’s hardly anything to do in Panjim, as a matter of fact, there are lots of things to do in Panjim. Whether it’s the famous Panjim church , Dona Paula jetty , Miramar beach , the chaat street of Miramar, the colour burst region of Fontainhas , there are so many popular as well as offbeat things to do in Panjim. Read this travel guide to Panjim city  which  contains all the top places to visit in Panjim, events, festivals and lots more.

7. See Salaulim Dam

Did you know that Goa has an extremely scenic dam called the Salaulim dam hidden away? This dam is the perfect example of a duckbill spillway, is surrounded by a botanical garden where you can indulge in a picnic and is located on the river Salaulim, a tributary of the Zuari river. Panjim to Salaulim dam is a distance of 61 km while Margao to Salaulim dam is a distance of 26 km. If you’ve explored Goa many-a-times and are looking to see a different side of Goa, visit this dam and enjoy the picturesque drive along the way.

8. Explore Offbeat Goa

Lately, more and more people are inspired to explore Goa beyond the beaches. Consequently, people are driven to explore offbeat places in Goa - such as the temples, the lesser-known churches, islands, lakes etc. If you too are keen on exploring another side of Goa, take a look at this blog post on the 17 best offbeat places in Goa . 

1. Goa River Cruise

The Panjim river cruises that originate at the Santa Monica jetty in Panjim city are a great way to spend the evening cruising in the Goan rivers. The cruises usually last an hour, there are food and drink stalls present and an entertainment program which includes local dance performances. You can book tickets with various cruise companies online or book directly at the booking counters present at the jetty. Do note that it gets crowded in the evening so be prepared to wait in a queue. It’s ideal to take a cruise at 6 pm in order to catch the sunset from the boat.

2. Visit a Casino in Goa

There are lots of casinos, to indulge in a night of carefree fun, that are located in Panjim city. Most of these casinos have a package that costs approximately INR 2500 per person that includes a buffet dinner and a few complimentary chips to get you started. The ports of all the casinos of located on the main road of Panjim (DB road). You can buy your tickets right here, catch a boat to the casino and come back the same way.

3. E-Bike Tour

Want to ditch the car or motorbike and cycle around the quiet lanes of Goa? B: Live runs e-bike tours in many places all across Goa. These e-bikes are battery operated and they come with an accelerator which means that you don’t have to pedal the bicycle if you don't want to. The bikes can even go up a hill with great ease and comfort to the rider. Check out the B: Live website to choose an e-bike tour of your liking. What’s more, each tour comes with an authentic Goan experience, snacks and a tour guide who will assist you throughout the duration of the tour.

4. Heritage Walks

If you’re the one who prefers to walk around and soak in the essence of a place, then a heritage walk is the way to go for you. You can take all sorts of heritage walks which give you an authentic experience where you will learn about the history of Goa, gain an insight to the Goan culture and go back with a wealth of knowledge about Goa. Perhaps the most popular and the most loved heritage walk in Goa is the Fontainhas heritage walk . You can take a look at some of the heritage walks in the Airbnb experiences section.

5. Yacht Party

If you’re the kind of person who likes to throw lavish parties or add a magical touch to special occasions, consider renting out a yacht for a few hours. Depending on the kind of package you choose, you can get food, drink and entertainment services on board along with a wait staff. These yachts come in different budgets for all kinds of occasions ranging from birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, wedding functions to office events, social gatherings etc.

South Goa Beaches

The South Goa beaches are the laid-back beaches in Goa. As someone who has been living in Goa for over 13 years, I prefer the South Goa beaches as opposed to the North Goa beaches because of the lesser crowds and the pristine nature of the beaches. Read my guide on the South Goa beaches to explore the tranquil beaches in Goa.

North Goa Beaches

While the South Goa beaches are peaceful, the North Goa beaches are always a happening place to be at. Whether it’s a taste of the hippie culture, the best beach shacks, karaoke bars and beach clubs, you’ll find it all at the North Goa beaches. Take a look at some of my personal favourites as well as the crowd favourite North Goa beaches:

1. Arambol Beach

Did you know that Goa was a raging hippie paradise back in the ’70s? The first hippies arrived in Goa in the 1970s and settled onto the North Goa beaches of Arambol, Vagator and Anjuna. While Vagator and Anjuna are more commercialised tourist beaches, Arambol still retains the hippie spirit. Whether it’s vegan cafes, yoga centres, hippie stuff (you know what I mean), you’ll find Arambol to be the perfect hippie paradise even today. While you’re at Arambol, do not miss other great nearby beaches of Ashwem, Mandrem and Morjim, which are less popular but equally beautiful.

Read my complete travel guide to Arambol Beach, North Goa (opens in new tab).

2. Vagator Beach

In case you’re looking for a beach that has a hippie touch yet commercialised to the extent that you’ll find nice places to stay and good restaurants and cafes nearby, Vagator should be the beach of your choice. Vagator is a bustling area that’s known for the very famous Chapora fort aka the Dil Chahta Hai fort. You’ll find lots of hotels, hostels, upscale restaurants, cafes, shops and everything else in close proximity to the beach.

3. Anjuna Beach

Anjuna beach is yet another one of the North Goa beaches that’s on the way to becoming highly commercialised (read: Baga beach). Anjuna has some of the best restaurants and cafes in all of Goa. You can easily spend a whole day in Anjuna just eating at the beachside restaurants or exploring cafes nested in the tiny lanes of Anjuna.

My insider’s guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t touch upon this extremely important subject. When it comes to trying food in Goa, there’s no one list that anyone can prepare. Goa is home to so many wonderful restaurants and cafes, with new places coming up regularly that it’s hard to keep track of all the places to eat in Goa.

Nonetheless, I’ve put together 3 rough guides to Goa’s food scene. Of the three, this list of the best North Goa restaurants and cafes is perhaps the most popular of them all. Coming to Panjim city, check out this guide to the best restaurants in Panaji city . Finally, if you’re in the vicinity of the airport and need to refuel, take a look at the best restaurants near Goa airport . 

Goa has a raging nightlife that consists of nightclubs, beach clubs, karaoke bars, pubs. Pool parties, rave parties and everything else in between. There are plenty of nightclubs in the Baga-Candolim region such as LPK , Titos , etc that play Bollywood and Punjabi hits to cater to a North Indian crowd. Meanwhile, places like Favella and Soro are much classier establishments that come with a dining experience along with foot-tapping English hits. Moreover, they even have themed nights every once in a while.

Coming to Panjim city, Soho and Cafe Mojo  are the favourite pubs among the locals.

Going down south, Silent Noise in Palolem is well-known for the Saturday night parties where you dance to music while wearing headphones. In any case, you’ll find nightlife in Goa quite easily at almost every corner.

Apart from boutique stores and beach-side markets, there are quite a few flea markets in Goa. When it comes to the most popular Goa flea market, the Arpora Saturday night market tops the list. This market is held every Saturday night during the “on” season in Arpora which is located close to Anjuna and Calangute. This market has everything ranging from clothes, bags, jewellery, shoes, art and handmade artefacts. Furthermore, there are performances such as fire eaters and dancers along with live music and plenty of food stalls to choose from. Apart from this, there are lots of other markets like the Anjuna Wednesday flea market that are set-up in the tourist season.

The Goa Carnival is one of the most popular events to take place in Goa. The carnival parades are held at multiple Goan cities like Panaji, Margao, Vasco-da-Gama, and Ponda over a span of a few days late in the month of February. 

IFFI (International Film Festival of India) which is held every year in the state capital Panaji sees many movie screenings and talks attended by Bollywood as well as local celebrities. 

Coming to art festivals, Serendipity Art Festival is as big as it gets. This festival is held in the month of December at various venues in Panjim city.

While there are many events music festivals held in Goa, Sunburn , which is held late in December, is the most famous of them all that sees well-known international DJs and singers perform.

Even though this is a complete Goa travel guide to let you plan your own Goa trip, I do have a suggested itinerary for you. While I strongly suggest spending AT LEAST a week in Goa, tourists choose to spend anywhere between 2 days to months in Goa.

If you’re on a quick weekend trip to Goa, check out these places to visit in Goa in 3 days . This itinerary covers all the basics of Goa within 3 days. On the other hand, if you have more time, spend your time exploring the popular beaches and places in Goa like Arambol, Vagator, Anjuna, Panjim, Old Goa, Agonda and Palolem at the very least.

Did You Enjoy my Insider’s Guide to Goa?

If you liked reading this insider’s travel guide to Goa that I’ve put together based on my experiences of living in Goa, follow me on my social media handles  Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest , Twitter to receive quick updates and be the first one to know when I release a new blog post!

I have seen quite a bit of India but never been to Goa – looks amazing and I think I must really make a plan to go soon! Such a lovely post with such good tips 🙂

This guide is so informative- it’s great to read about Goa from someone who has lived there for so long rather than just visited. Saved for future travels 😀

Nice post!! It is really very informative content for everyone as there is many different information about the place to take decision to travel to goa with lot of memories of place which is unforgettable.

Great post and informative guide…thank you!?

Anjuna Beach is my favourite place in goa. Thanks for sharing this information to us.

Thanks for this info. I would like to add what i personally love about goa are the water sports.

Pingback: 15 amazing photos that will instantly tempt you to plan a Goa Trip! - Couple of Journeys

very useful post ,,,,these guide are very informative….thanks for sharing…

Comments are closed.

Goa Travel Guide 2024: How To Travel Within Goa, Clothing, and Safety Tips

Goa is one of the best places to visit in India and offers activities for all kinds of travelers. From exploring the ruins of Old Goa to watching dolphins in the Arabian Sea, there are a lot of things to do here.

And in order to enjoy it, you need to plan your trip to Goa carefully. This is why I have prepared this Goa Travel Guide.

In this travel guide, you will find all the information such as the history of Goa, how to travel in Goa, tips for responsible traveling in goa, ATM availability, and more.

An In-Depth Travel Guide For Goa

When to visit goa.

Goa is famous for its beaches and experiences a tropical climate, making winter the best time to visit the state. The tourist season in Goa lasts from November to March when the weather is moderately pleasurable.

If you plan in any other months, you will find the sun too hot or too much humidity in the area which makes traveling in Goa miserable for the visitors.

Summer is absolutely the worst time to visit Goa but the monsoon period is great for exploring the natural side of Goa. At this time, the Arabian Sea becomes dangerous and the beaches become inaccessible to visitors.

However, if you want to enjoy the waterfalls, lagoons, national parks, etc. in Goa, then the monsoon is a good time to visit. Do remember that beach shacks, huts, and several water activities are not operational at this time.

How to Travel in Goa

Once you have reached Goa, the next thing that you have to figure out is how to travel in Goa. This is extremely important because Goa is huge and going from one point to another often takes 45-60 minutes.

Thankfully, Goa has plenty of both private and public transportation options. So, you can consider your budget and preference while choosing the best mode of transport in Goa.

Public transportation includes buses that link all the major villages and towns of Goa. And hired transport options include auto-rickshaws, prepaid taxis, taxi bikes, car rentals, scooty, and more.

Here are a few ways that you can travel to Goa to explore this beautiful city.

Travel To/From Dabolim Airport

A lot of people are not aware of this but a local bus runs Dabolim International Airport to Vasco Da Gama. I have taken this bus which takes around 20 minutes to reach Vasco Da Gama Bus Stand and costs approximately 20 INR.

From Vasco Da Gama, you can get buses to Madgaon (for South Goa) or Panjim (for North Goa).

Where is the Bus Stop at Dabolim International Airport?

The bus stop at the airport is on the main highway to the right side of the airport exit doors. Once you get out of the airport, turn right and walk downwards towards the highway.

As soon as the public road begins, turn left and you will find a few local buses parked here that will take you to Vasco Da Gama.

How to Reach Dabolim International Airport?

If you want to reach the Dabolim Airport then you can take a shuttle from Panjim to Vasco Da Gama or the airport. From Vasco Da Gama, you have a couple of local buses going to the Airport every 10-15 minutes. And the whole thing would cost you barely 50 – 80 INR.

Budget Options

Bus Cost: Approximately INR 10 for 2-3 km Bicycle Rental Cost: INR 150 – 300 per day Ferries Cost: Free

Bus Service in Goa

Buses are the cheapest way to travel in Goa and connect all the villages and towns in this state. You will find amazing bus service in Goa to connect North and south parts of the state

You would not get a direct bus from South Goa to North Goa, it is still possible to explore the entire city using buses.

One thing to remember is that Madgaon and Panjim are two major bus stations in Goa. You will get buses to most of the places from here. Here is a little detailed route by bus if you want to reach these places:

• Madgaon Railway Station – From Madgaon Railway Station, you get a local bus to the Madgaon Bus Stand. It usually takes 15-20 minutes to reach the bus stand and costs around 20 INR.
• From the Madgaon Bus Stand, you get buses to South Goa like Colva, Benaulim, etc. You also get a bus/shuttle to Panjim from here.
• You will also get shuttles from Panjim to Madgaon which will take barely 45 minutes to reach and will cost you about 80 INR.
• Baga Beach – Once you reach Panjim, you can take a bus to reach North Goa like Baga, Candolim, etc. One thing to remember is that these buses usually take time but will cost you just 20-50 INR.
• Panjim – You will get a bus to Panjim from most of the places since it is a major point in Goa. Although, in some cases, you might need to change the bus at one point.
• Arambol – If you want to reach Arambol, then you will first need to take a bus to Morjim from Panjim. From the Morjim bus stand, you will need to take another bus to Arambol. In total, it would take you around 2 hours to reach Arambol from Panjim in a bus.

Shuttle Buses are quick and don’t stop at all the bus stops. So, if you are heading to the airport or the railway station then shuttle buses are the best way to travel.

Bicycle Rental

If you are traveling in Goa in the high season (December to February), then you can easily find bicycles to rent here.

You can rent bicycles daily or weekly basis and will find plenty of bicycle rental shops all over Goa.

If you are planning to stay for a month or more, then you can also ask for discounted rates on the bicycle.

Two-Wheeler Taxis in Goa

Another great option for local traveling in Goa that I became aware of during this year’s trip was the two-wheeler taxis also known as motorcycle taxis or pilots. In these taxis, you sit as a pillion rider behind a motorbike rider and reach any place for a fixed amount.

This is affordable and a great option for solo travelers who are planning a budget trip to Goa.

When you are traveling to other islands from the mainland such as Divar Island, Chorao Island, etc., you will need to take a ferry.

Thankfully, government-run ferries operate on such routes and don’t charge anything from the tourists or the locals.

Mid-Range Options

Taxi Cost: INR 8 – 10 per km or more Auto Rickshaw Cost: INR 7 per km or more Car or Scooty Rental Cost: INR 800 – 3000 per day for a car, INR 200 – 500 per day for scooty

Cabs and Taxis

If you want comfort and convenience and money is not an issue, then you can rent a cab in Goa.

However, this is definitely an expensive way to explore Goa. Generally, drivers charge an outrageous amount for a trip that might not be suitable for budget travelers.

The government has fixed prices for auto-rickshaws and cabs but a lot of drivers don’t follow this pricing. You can either pre-book them or flag them down on the road.

Prepaid Pricing – One thing to keep in mind is that the government has set prices for the different routes in Goa for the tourists. You can ask the driver to show you this official pricing before you agree to the price mentioned by them.

Dabolim Airport to Panjim – This will easily cost you about 1000 – 1500 INR so rent a cab in Goa sparingly.

Goa Miles – To rent a cab in Goa that is affordable, you can download the Goa Miles app. Generally, you find cabs and taxi bikes that will cost almost half of what they would normally charge you.

Rented Self-Drive Cars/Bikes

One of the best things to do in Goa for an easy and convenient trip is to rent a car/two-wheeler. You have a lot of rental shops throughout Goa which will give you a car/two-wheeler on rent.

A self-driven car will generally cost you around 1500 INR for a 7-seater in the off-season and weekdays. However, if you visit this city for a long weekend or the peak season then expect to pay around 2500 – 3000 INR for a 7-seater car.

As for the scooty, you can get it for 200-400 INR for a day throughout the year. One thing to remember is that make sure you ask for all the essential papers and helmets when renting the car/scooty.

A lot of times, they might rent you a car that doesn’t have required papers for driving around the entire Goa or you might not have a helmet for all the riders on the scooty.

Luxury Option (Private Driver)

If money is not a constraint for you, then you can rent a car with a private driver for your Goa trip. The cost of the private chauffeur will depend on where you made the booking.

However, the cost of renting a cab with a driver for 8 hours or a full day can range between 3,000 – 5,000 INR inclusive of driver fee, car, and fuel.

Since this is a full-day service, you should use it when you are planning a full day of sightseeing. If you are going to be traveling for just a couple of hours, you are better off choosing a taxi service.

For reliable and safe service, make sure you book a cab with a private chauffeur at the airport or through your hotel.

How Many Days to Stay in Goa

If you stay close to Goa, then a 3 to 4-day relaxing vacation by the beach would be perfect for you. But if you are traveling from cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur, etc., then you would easily need 5-6 days to soak in the beauty of this state.

Honestly, Goa deserves a longer vacation as there are numerous places to explore here including churches, waterfalls, beaches, and forts. I would suggest a week to a 10-day long trip to Goa.

In the past couple of years, Goa has become a popular hub for digital nomads and slow traveling due to its good connectivity and fair network.

There are several beachside cafes and accommodations where the visitors stay to work and enjoy the beachside views. If you are looking for a work-from-home location in this pandemic, then Goa is a good choice to consider.

What to Do in Goa

Goa is beautiful with a lot of things for guests to do around here. So, whether you are a nature lover or a beach lover, you will easily find something to engage in.

Here are a few things that you could do on your Goa trip for enjoying a wholesome experience here.

Beach Hopping in Goa

Goa is known as the beach capital of India and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. A few of the beaches are either hidden behind a cliff or they are protecting a lagoon which makes them even more beautiful to explore. So, if you are in Goa, you have to do beach hopping.

A few beaches in Goa that you cannot miss out on are Vagator beach in North Goa, Miramar beach in Panjim, Palolem beach in South Goa, Colva beach in South Goa, and so on.

Explore Old Goa

Apart from the beaches, there are a lot of offbeat places to explore in Goa too including Old Goa. In Old Goa, you will find a lot of beautiful churches and heritage sites to check out.

One such place that you must visit is the Basilica of Bom Jesus and St. Cathderal, both of these are UNESCO Heritage sites and have beautiful architecture to admire.

Check out the Waterfalls

There are a lot of amazing waterfalls to check out in Goa, both big and small. So, make sure that you set aside time for those as well. If you don’t have the time, then just make sure that you at least cover the Dudhsagar waterfall for which you will need the help of a local.

There is a limited number of cars allowed near this waterfall so, make sure you start early in the day to visit this waterfall.

Experience Nightlife in Goa

Of course, when we are talking about Goa, we have to talk about its amazing nightlife. If you love parties and crowds, then you have a lot to cover in Goa. There are so many bars, clubs, night-long parties to attend here, and usually, you will find a lot of such events happening in Central Goa.

So, you can go and enjoy the casino experience at Deltin Royal or groove to the Bollywood music in Love Passion Karma in Nerul, there are very low chances of you running out of party places to explore around here.

Do Yoga in Goa

If you are looking for a relaxing trip to Goa, then you can even join a yoga retreat here for daily yoga sessions. These yoga sessions can be quite uplifting and will help you relax properly. Trust me, it is quite refreshing to start an active day on the beach with a yoga session.

Try Watersports

Apart from the above-mentioned activities, Goa is quite famous for water sports as well. From dolphin watching to scuba diving, you have a wide range of water activities to do around here. You can even join a scuba diving course in Goa and learn how to dive on the Grande Island nearby.

So, if you have always wanted to try water activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, banana boat ride, snorkeling, diving, etc., then Goa is a good place to try it out.

Festivals in Goa

There are several unique festivals in Goa that are either a remembrance of the 450 years of Portuguese rule or celebrate the rich heritage of the locals.

You can plan a trip to Goa during this time to enjoy the food, colorful costumes, and all the fun events that are carried out during such festivals.

Music Festival – There are many music festivals held in Goa throughout the year, out of which Sunburn and Supersonic Music Festival are the most popular ones to attend.

New Year’s Eve and Christmas – During Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the beaches and cafes in Goa are brimming with colors and music. This is a great way to celebrate the New Year or Christmas spirits of the year.

Narkasur – After Diwali, locals of Goa celebrate Narka Chaturdashi which is the manifestation of good triumphing over evil. In this festival, giant demon effigies dance through the streets of Goa before they are burned to show the triumph of good.

Viva Carnival – This is a Catholic festival that begins from Fat Saturday and lasts till Fat Tuesday. Similar to Mardi Gras or Rio Carnival, this festival includes a grand celebration involving parades, floats, masked dances, and more.

Goa’s Party Scene

A lot of visitors come to Goa expecting the famous trance parties but are disappointed when they have the mainstream clubs to entertain themselves.

For pure hippie vibes and to dance to techno music, you can find several clubs in Goa, especially Anjuna and Vagator.

But if you are looking for parties where thousands of people dance, then you would need to attend a music festival in Goa or plan a trip during Christmas or New Year’s Eve.

What and Where to Eat in Goa

Goa is famous for seafood so if you are a non-vegetarian, then you can try the seafood dishes over here. A popular Goan dish to try would be Vindaloo that tends to be spicy but ultimately delicious.

Apart from that, you also need to try the Fish Curry meal here that usually includes fried fish, dal, roti, and a few other local items. You can find this meal in most local dhabas and eating stalls for 80 – 100 INR and it is quite filling as well.

Another great dish to try in Goa is the famous Bun from Café Bhosle in Panjim. This is a small, fluffy, and sweet bun that is fried and is served with chickpeas. It tastes quite yummy and will cost you around 50 INR for a plate.

You will find a lot of cafés here as well that serve delicious baked goods. One of my favorites is Café Al Fresco in Goa that is a Portuguese house converted into an art gallery and a bakery.

Here, you get pizza, croissants, cheesecake, and other delicacies to enjoy with a calm and relaxing ambiance. There are several rooms here that have been turned into display rooms for different kinds of artifacts and creations. So, if you have some time at hand, do visit this place in Panjim.

Another place that I would highly recommend you to visit is the Joseph’s Bar in Panjim where you can get the local alcohol Feni and some local snacks such as well.

They have seafood snacks too which are delicious and the entire vibe of this bar is quite amazing. You can meet lots of locals around here and hang out with them for an amazing time.

There are several normal restaurants and dhabas in Goa where you can enjoy a meal for 100 – 300 INR per person.

If you don’t mind spending, then you will find loads of good and high-end restaurants along with fast-food chains here that serve good food and will cost you 300 – 500 INR for a decent meal.

Stick to small food shacks and do read the menu before you start ordering. Also, make sure that you do try the Fish Curry meal here for 100 – 150 INR. The meal is filling and is the best way to taste the Goan cuisine.

Souvenir Shopping

There are several iconic flea markets in Goa such as the Anjuna Flea Market, Arpora Saturday Night Bazaar, etc. where they sell interesting items to the tourists.

From anklets to beaded necklaces, you can get it all here for a reasonable price. But you need to be adept at bargaining.

Although most of the jewelry, clothes, and footwear that are sold here can be bought from Sarojini Market in Delhi, there are a few unique things to buy here.

You can get the famous local alcohol – Feni, a bottle of Kokum juice, Goan spices, special Cashews, Azulejos – hand-painted tiles of Goa, and local sweets such as Bebinca Cake as souvenirs from Goa.

Accommodation Options in Goa

Goa is not a tiny state and easily requires 7-10 days to properly explore the sights that it has to offer. This is why you must choose the right place to stay in Goa as it has a big impact on your experience here.

If you love to party and want to enjoy all the experiences and activities that Goa has to offer to the tourists, then choose accommodation in Baga or Calangute.

For those who love offbeat locations and a peaceful environment, places in extreme North and South Goa are good choices.

And if you wish to explore Old Goa and learn more about the history of this state, then Panjim would be the ideal place to stay in Goa.

ATMs in Goa

If you traveling to Goa on a shoestring budget, then you will need to carry cash to pay the local street vendors, bus conductors, etc. So, carry enough cash that you can pay the street vendors.

There are a few places that accept PayTM, Google Pay, etc. also these days but don’t be completely reliable on those platforms.

Since Goa is a popular tourist destination, there are a lot of ATMs scattered throughout this tiny state. However, during the long weekends, a lot of these ATMs tend to be empty and there are huge queues outside the ATMs to withdraw cash.

To avoid such a situation, make sure that you pay using your card wherever possible such as clubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, etc., and keep the cash for paying for the rentals, activities, and other things.

This way, you won’t end up without cash where you need it the most and won’t have to waste time on ATM queues during your Goa trip.

Network Availability in Goa

In terms of Network availability, most of the networks work in Goa. But Vodafone, Jio, and Airtel networks work the best in Goa.

However, this network can be patchy at many locations as well so, you might not have any Internet or Calling signal on your mobile phone for a while.

Most of the hotels and cafes offer decent Wi-Fi to get your work done even if you cannot stream Netflix with it.

Safety in Goa

Goa is a relatively safe state to visit in India but there are a few things to keep in mind when you are traveling here.

Swimming in Goa

Firstly, be careful when you are swimming in Goa. A lot of beaches have vicious sea currents that can easily drown tourists. Generally, this happens because the tourist is drunk or high.

So, stick to beaches that have lifeguards or are safe to swim. Avoid swimming during the monsoon season as it can be extremely dangerous.

Women Safety

One bad thing about Goa is that eve-teasing and catcalling are quite common here. But that’s not even the worst part.

There have been complaints from women that their obscene photos are clicked without their permission or men try to begin a conversation with them when they are not interested.

This is why it is advised for solo female travelers or female friends to avoid going to remote places alone or accepting food/drinks from strangers in Goa.

Sunstroke and Mosquito Bites

Apart from that, you are likely to suffer from sunstroke or suffer from mosquito bites when you are traveling in Goa.

Make sure you carry a hat and good sunscreen with high SPF value to keep your skin protected.

For protection against the mosquitoes, use a mosquito repellent cream or spray and try to keep a covering with you to cover your exposed skin during the evening to stay safe from mosquito bites.

Clothing in Goa

Of course, when you are planning a trip to Goa, you might wonder what you should wear here. Thankfully, Goa is a little relaxed in terms of clothing and one can easily wear dresses, skirts, shorts, etc. here.

One of the best things about Goa is that you can wear almost anything when you are traveling here. Bikinis and swimsuits are common on the beaches and you can wear them freely on Colva, Vagator, Arambol, Palolem, etc. beaches.

Furthermore, if your hotel or resort is located on a beach, then you can relax and enjoy yourself in a bikini as the beach area is usually kept private for the guests to enjoy.

The only place where it is not normal to wear a bikini or swimsuit is in restaurants or the streets of Goa, so dress a little carefully over there. You can wear dresses, skirts, etc. while exploring around Goa with no worries.

Apart from that, there are many churches and traditional places in Goa where you would need to cover your knees and shoulders to enter.

If you are traveling in a bus, then do carry a stole or scarf to avoid standing out and getting ogled at. A stole will not only protect you from unwarranted stares but will also keep you safe from the bright sun and keep your body cool in the humid climate.

Budget for Goa

One of the best things about Goa is that it can easily be traveled on a shoestring budget. But if you are in a mood to splurge, then it can easily turn into a luxurious trip as well.

On my 4 trips to Goa now, I have been able to manage my month-long trips in 15,000 – 20,000 INR inclusive of my travel from Delhi to Goa, stay, food, activities, and transportation in Goa.

Generally, a 5-day trip to Goa can cost you around 4,000 – 6,000 INR if you are on a budget trip. This cost can increase if you choose luxury resorts and dine and party at the best places in Goa.

Goa has become too crowded after it has evolved as a tourist destination but there are still a lot of unexplored places around here.

Most people stay in North Goa for party scenes but if you want to experience Goa in the Goan style, then explore Old Goa and South Goa. It is quite peaceful around there and you have a lot of lagoons and hiking trails to explore in South Goa too.

Honestly, Goa is one of those places that have something for all kinds of travelers. So, whether you are looking for a fun place to party or a quiet beach to reflect on your life, Goa has it all.

I hope this Goa travel guide helps you plan your trip to Goa too so that you can have your once-in-a-lifetime trip here.

Related posts

Rann Utsav Tent City Complete Guide 2024: Types of Tents, Cost, and More

15 Best Places to Visit in Sikkim For First-Time Visitors

Trek Requirements: How to Pack for a Trek

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us. We provide Watersports & Adventure trips. Convenient & affordable to your advantage.

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us.

• YouTube Channel
• Travel Resources

Goa Travel Tips: 13 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting

by Drifter Planet | Jun 26, 2016 | Goa , India , Most Popular Blog Posts

Travel Tips to get the most out of your Goa visit

I’m sure by now you know that I absolutely LOVE Goa . I love it so much that I spent many hours a few days back in my attempt to create the most detailed guide on the internet to North Goa ! 

In the past few years, I have seen many Goa travel tips on different websites that say things like “carry sunscreen” or “carry comfortable flat sandals or flip flops”.

Yes, these tips are correct but don’t you think they are pretty darn obvious? 

Of course, if you’re visiting a beach destination, you’re going to have to carry sunscreen and flip-flips.

Anyway, I want to help first-time Goa visitors and have decided to share a little more insight about things you need to keep in mind before visiting Goa. Here are some essential Goa travel tips to help you get the most out of your visit to this glorious destination.

Travel Tips for Goa

Table of contents, 1) visa for goa.. umm india.

Based on the volume of people who visit my website from other countries, I feel it is necessary to add information for obtaining a visa for India in this article.

If you don’t know this already – I’m married to a German and he often applies for a tourist visa to visit India. India doesn’t offer a visa-free entry OR a visa on arrival but you can apply for an eVisa. Sadly the government-run website for an eVisa for India or a general tourist visa for India is not so simple to use and usually gives errors on things as simple as picture upload.

Based on the number of painful hours my husband has spent on the Indian embassy’s eVisa website, I highly recommend you make things simpler for yourself and check iVisa . We availed their service when we were in the Philippines and it really made things simpler for us.

Click here to check your visa requirements for India

2) Goa High Season – When NOT to Visit Goa

Goa doesn’t just have high and low seasons, but it also has peak and moderate seasons. Here are some more details:

The low season is from May to mid-September, the High is from November to the middle of December and the peak is from the middle of December to the middle of January.

Avoid visiting Goa during the peak season because you will waste a lot of time in traffic jams.

If you must visit during this time, try to find the most secluded beaches. Chances are, even those beaches will not be secluded during the peak season.

During the New Year and Christmas time, many city folks from all over India (especially Delhi , Mumbai, and Bangalore) visit Goa.

3) Where Not to Stay in Goa

I have mentioned this before and I want to mention this again – Goa offers way more than Calangute – Baga – Candolim or Anjuna beaches. Trust me, these above-mentioned beaches are definitely some of the most crowded ones and no longer have a “Goa vibe”.

For more details about where to stay, check out my post about North Goa Beaches and beyond.

4) You DON’T need to book a place to stay in advance, unless…

Unless you’re visiting very late at night and don’t have time to hunt for a bed, or you’re visiting at peak season, which is December 20 to January 5, I’d recommend you not to prebook your place.

Most travel websites will brainwash you into booking a room because they sell rooms on their websites or on a commission basis. If you book in advance, you miss out on places that don’t advertise on the internet but only through word of mouth.

5) Save money from Goa Airport to your hotel

If you’re visiting Goa, most likely you’re going to arrive here by flight. Unlike most of India, tuk-tuks are not so easily available in Goa.

The cost of traveling in Goa is usually low except the taxis are expensive and unfortunately that’s the only mode of communication you will find at the airports. However, there is a way you can save money on your taxi fare.

At the prepaid taxi counter queue just at the exit gate of the airport, just ask around and try to find fellow travelers who are heading in your direction. Most likely, you will easily find people to share a taxi with for your destination. This has always worked for me!

6) Reaching Goa Airport by Bus

It is possible to get to the airport by bus. From North Goa (let’s say Morjim), take a tuk-tuk (or taxi) to Silom or Mapusa bus stand, and from there catch an express bus to Panjim (Panaji). From Panjim, you need to catch a bus to Vasco and it will drop you 2 KMs away from the airport.

Make sure you let the bus driver know that you have to reach the airport because there’s no proper bus stop where they will drop you off. Do this only if you’re ready to walk with your luggage.

Keep in mind that the last bus from Panjim to Vasco departs at 7 and the queue behind the ticket counter is usually massive, so take out an extra 30 minutes or more for this.

Similarly, if you’re in South Goa (let’s say Agonda), you need to take a tuk-tuk to the nearest bus stand and then take a bus to Margao Bus Terminal. From Margao, board a bus (or Kadamba shuttle) to Vasco. Try finding a bus that goes from Maragao to Vasco via Majorda. Again, make sure you inform your driver that you need to get to the airport so that he can drop you to the nearest point.

Do this only if you have a lot of time before your flight. It took us 4 hours to travel from Vagator to the airport by bus. Looking back, it isn’t worth the hassle but those were my backpacking days when I had a lot of time and hardly any money.

7) Best Way to Explore Goa

If you like walking, you will only be able to explore your beach area and around. If you want to explore further, I’d recommend you rent a scooter.

Exploring Goa on a rented scooter is the best and the most affordable option. These scooters are usually available for INR 300 – 500 per day.

Please make sure you carry your driver’s license because there are many checkpoints. It is possible to rent cars too but many spots can only be accessed by scooters or on foot.

8) Where Not to Swim in Goa

In Goa, certain areas are marked by red flags which means it’s dangerous to swim there. The sea will appear to be calm but the undercurrents are powerful and dangerous. If you go inside, you will be transported to the open sea much faster than you can swim.

These are the situations when people drown because they try to fight to current in their panic. Most likely, you will see a lot of people in the water already but please follow the rules and don’t be an idiot.

Oh and on a side note, don’t swim in the stretch of ocean in front of Curlees and Shiva Valley of Anjuna because I have personally seen people puking in that water after Anjuna’s crazy parties.

9) A tip about Goan Food

Do you love Indian food? You’re going to LOVE Goan food. However, keep in mind that the Goan curries are spicier than most of the Indian curries.

If you can’t handle spice, make sure you inform your restaurant staff to go easy on the chilies. I love spicy Goan food but San can’t handle the chili overdose.

10) How not to get ripped off

Shopping in Goa is fun because of the variety of things that you can buy. Lamps, incense sticks, swimsuits, clothes, jewelry, tea, spices, fruits – almost everything that you will possibly need will be available on the streets.

While grocery stores have fixed prices, street shop vendors will hike the price when they see that you’re not a local.

To avoid getting ripped off, you need to learn how to haggle like a pro. As a rule of thumb, cut the quoted price in half and then negotiate your way to a middle figure. Do not forget to smile when you do this.

If you find something unique at a high price, most likely it’s handmade, and maybe it’s worth the price, so just buy it.

11) Find the best parties in Goa

Ok, so you have heard that Goa is the birthplace of psychedelic trance and you want to experience a typical old-school Goa trance party. But how to find the best PsyTrance parties? Well, stay in the Vagator area and just follow the music. There is usually a party every night.

Ask around and you will find out. When you reach the party and if you ever get hungry, you will definitely find affordable snacks right outside the parties.

Outside every party are rows of Ammas (older mother-like women) with stoves selling cheese omelet buns, burgers, cigarettes, water, and tea. These Ammas usually know where is the next party so just ask them.

12) Be Safe in Goa

While Goa is safer than most of India and perhaps many parts of the world, it doesn’t hurt to take typical safety precautions. Trust your instincts and don’t accept drinks from strangers. When in doubt, head to the nearest shop and contact a local to seek help.

13) Respect the Culture, the Nature and Goa way of life

Yes, Goa is perhaps the most open-minded destination in India and the locals are liberal. But please don’t treat their home as your “nonstop party on the road” destination.

I don’t know why I’m even typing this but I feel it’s my responsibility to inform you that you should cover yourself a little more than what you do at the beach if you end up visiting any of the churches.

Please don’t leave your trash on the beach. If you find any, just pick it up and put it in the nearest dustbin. Oh and don’t forget that most of the shacks (beach bar and restaurants) are run by families and you should not expect a five-star service. Appreciate what you get and don’t forget to smile.

Enjoyed these Goa travel tips? Why not share with a friend? If you live in Goa or have visited it a few times, why don’t you add your own tip in the comments?

Pin to save the post for later

You may also like:

North Goa – Beaches and Beyond

Goa Flea Markets

Why I love Goa and Keep Going Back

Things to do in  Hampi

11 Hippie Destinations in the Himalayas

Related Posts:

Thanks for the tips!!

I have a confirmed booking at ITC Fortune Select Regina, Candolim, Goa. Three Deluxe room for 3 days (13th Dec to 16 Dec ‘18). Price Rs 6500 per night stay(all inclusive price including breakfast). Anyone interested may contact me ( 9099022989). Actually it a group booking but 3 of our colleague are not joining due to last minute unavoidable reasons. It’s a 4 Star property at beautiful Candolim beach.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a knack for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

Not sure where to start? Start with some of my most popular posts .

Pin It on Pinterest

Last Updated on September 19, 2023 by Drifter Planet

Orange Wayfarer

Culturally Immersive & Responsible Travel

Ultimate Goa Travel Guide for the First Time Travelers!

About this blog: This travel guide to Goa will list out all the practical travel tips to the Coastal state of West India, and the country’s most beloved beach destination. If you are traveling to Goa for the first time, you will ideally find all the answers related to Goa travel in this article! If you do not, ask away in the comments section please!

Read all the posts on Goa Travel here!

Traveling to Goa is often hailed as a sign of attaining adolescent in India. Her long stretched coast line promises a new kind of free. Once a part of the iconic Hippie trail that flourished all the way from Europe to Nepal, Goa gave birth to a “New Found Land”, where you can just be, drifting away from the prejudices and societal niceties that bind you beyond logic can reason wish!

You do not visit Goa just once. You want to live there, get drunk on the intangible elixir that Arabian Sea serves with salty breeze! I visited Goa on a long weekend trip from Bangalore. I revisited Goa with another set of friends, in between a lot of failed Goa trip planning which are an incumbent part of Indian Millennial’s growing up experience! Then life happened and I visited Goa multiple times for “work”, I mean for travel blogging.

Each time, I visit, Goa opens a new chapter from past, while siting glorious nature by side.

• Language spoken: Konkoni, Marathi. Largely understood- English and Hindi.
• Famous for Beautiful beaches, water-sports, night-markets, sea food, yoga, nightlife
• Safer place to travel to for solo women in India
• It is a tiny state. Prosperous and with higher literacy rate. One of the leading tourist destinations in India.

How to reach Goa (by car/train/flight)

Goa is well connected with the rest of the country. Especially, multiple hour-long flights fly daily from Mumbai (erstwhile Bombay) to Goa, India’s financial capital. I prefer train journey to Goa as the route is particularly scenic!

Train journey by Konkan Railways!

Madgaon (MAO) and Vasco Da Gama (VSG) are the two major railway stations that connect Goa with rest of the country. If you are traveling to Goa from Bangalore or southern parts of India, I highly recommend taking a ride through Konkon railway. You shall see Dudhsagar falls for a fraction and mist shrouded lush green jungle everywhere will greet you to the land of Goa.

Fly into Dabolim Airport, Goa

Dabolim (GOI) is a domestic airport which is yet to receive international flights unless you are flying on a charter plane from somewhere in Russia. That is how Russians fly into Goa, in style. However, domestic carriers like Air Asia, Indigo, Spice Jet have multiple flights to Goa from morning 6 am to 11 pm at night.

Also keep in mind, Dabolim is an army airport serving the naval base of Indian Military and photography is restricted here. In Goa, a new airport is on the make to accommodate increased tourist footfall and should be operational by 2020.

Bus to Goa from nearby states

Overnight bus runs from nearby states and takes you to the connecting hub at Kadamba Bus station. From Bombay or Pune, traveling to Goa by bus is a last minute budget option. Bangalore to Goa bus is there too, however it runs for a painful 11/12 hours and stops are sparse. Bus journey in India do not have attached tpilets.

Goa Central bus station is located at the heart of Panaji. You can further change bus for North or South Goa or rent a car. Public bus ply in Goa till 6 pm and then frequency slows down, especially for the longer routes till Margao etc.

Road-trip to Goa

NH 66 passes through the Western coast of Indian peninsula and runs through Goa. Roads are a pleasure to drive. However you need international licence to drive in India (in case you are not Indian passport holder).

On new year eve or long weekends, there had been multiple reports of roadblocks with excessive traffic. Monsoon may cause road blockage due to mild flooding as well.

Public Transport in Goa

Kadamba line has recently hit the Goa roads. The Aircon bus runs from Panaji to tourist town of Arambol and Calagute. They also have hourly connectivity with Dabolim airport. Prices are close to INR 100 and Kadamba busline in Goa is the safest transport option.

How to rent a bike in Goa

You can also hire bikes, cars by depositing your licence. Do not forget to get a photo of the license which will can be further used at police check points on the road if any.

Bikes or cars are generally driven on the left side of the lane everywhere in India. Traffic rules are strict. Drunk driving is a punishable offence.

Also read about the most beautiful beaches of Goa . You may explore some of them in a long weekend vacation to Goa as well!

Best Time to Visit Goa

Famous for beach-life, Goa is best enjoyed under the bright sun. Winter is literally non existence.

Usually, tourist season in Goa spans from November to wee end of March. April is when school in India are closed for summer and you are likely to see plenty of domestic families traveling to Goa. Come every long weekend, millennial Indians working in nearby cities head to Goa to chase the grand sunset on Arabian sea. That crowd does not disperse when during monsoon.

The winter months in Goa usually have a very pleasurable moderate weather. They neither make you shiver under the blanket, nor force-feed challenging humidity. Summer can be different though, with a bright sun scorching everything on its way.

Monsoon in Goa

Monsoon in Goa is painfully beautiful. Raindrops drizzle from the straw huts and hinterlands turn lush green, complementing a swelled up river Mandovi. But Arabian Sea takes up a dangerous form, with most of the beach being off limit to swimmers. Watersports are usually closed during monsoon. Beach shacks are extinct.

Head to Goa during monsoon, if you love nature. However for the postcard perfect Goa where golden sand beaches stretch out till the horizon, dotted with coconut groves, you need to wait till dry month of winter.

Many beach huts and beach shacks are usually closed during monsoon. Be cognizant of the fact, relentless rain may also cause violent undercurrent in the sea.

Festivals in Goa

Be it a reminiscent of 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule or rich heritage of locals who find mention in epic tales of Mahabharat, Goa has no dearth of festivals and celebrations. It is worth planning your trip around one such festival in Goa. Watch out for the colorful costume, specific food, people letting there hair down and being a part of the merry procession, irrespective of cast and creed. It is beautiful.

Narkasur : Post Diwali, Narka Chaturdashi celebration where good triumphs over evil is manifested. It resembles that of Bhoot Chaturdashi or Dakini Jogini in Bengal , which we worship during Kalipuja when the rest of the country celebrates Diwali.

Viva Carnival : The Catholic festival, often compared to Mardi Gras, or even Rio carnival, that starts from Fat Saturday ( Sabado Gordo ) and end on Fat Tuesday, is a grand celebration where floats, parades, masked dance and other cultural identity find a way of expression. It is celebrated in Panaji and sort of reminds me of “Bisarjan Carnival” of Durgapuja, Kolkata .

New Years Eve: 31st December. Goa brings in New year in style with beaches beaming with color, elaborate fireworks and music.

Music festival in Goa : Supersonic, Sunburn.

Also read: Ramadan Foodwalk in Hyderabad!

Where to stay in Goa

I keep saying Goa as a tiny state. However, it takes at least 7 days to cover all the coastal region and hinterlands of Goa. You will still not see everything, but at least scratch the surface.

It is imperative, where you choose to stay in Goa, can actually make or break the experience.

Let me break down possible tourist accommodation options in Goa in three broad categories. Those who love to party and want to taste every pleasure Goa offers to tourists, must choose Baga or Calangute . Those who love offbeat stays and serenity, can choose between further North or South Goa. Panaji is the capital with plenty of old world charm. But who lives in Panaji when holidaying in Goa? It is good for a day trip.

North or South Goa, how to choose where to stay : this question can be compared with who came first, chicken or the egg? Here, let us look at the pros and cons of each area. I have stayed in these places personally and sharing feedback basis on my experience.

Staying at Baga/Calangute

Pro: Almost everything is available. You name it and you get it. Multiple bike rentals, car rentals, accommodation options, budget hostels, central bus station, public transport, bustling nightlife, cheap and quirky cafes. Nice beach, but…

Con: … the beach is super crowded. Especially, if you are in Baga on a weekend. Prices are on the higher end. Beach shacks are aplenty on season but charges painfully high price.

Staying at Arambol/Ashwem (extreme North Goa)

Despite a Cyclonic storm, I loved my experience of staying at the Yab Yum Beach Resort, Goa. It was right next to the hidden Ashwem beach and away from the buzz of a world moving, changing at a lightening fast speed.

Pro: Offbeat destination, often entire stretch of beach to yourself, away from where stag groups travel hence safer option for a solo woman traveler.

Con: Lack of water sports and limited activities. Not a bustling nightlife around.

Also read: Top 12 Cultural experiences in Goa!

Staying at South Goa

In south Goa, Colva, Benaulim, and Varca has multiple luxury resorts and upscale stay options. Further down south, Agonda and Patnem has better tourist infrastructures.

Pro: Offbeat, serene place, less crowded, beautiful lagoon style beaches, authentic local experience. Best for slow travel and exploring.

Con: Further away from central location. Long drive from airport/train station. Pricier in some cases. Less activities.

Book a stay in G oa: check reviews and best prices here!

Alternative stays in Goa

Goa also houses a world class wellness resort at Divar Island, where tranquility finds a new name. Check out my review of Mercure Devaaya Resort and choose it for a complete detoxing (7 spiritual) holiday in Goa!

Also read: 7 days in Shillong, where I lost my heart!

How Many Days are Good for Goa

Those who stay close-by, visit Goa for 3/4 days for a quick relaxing holiday by the beach. In reality, Goa deserves a longer stay, preferably between one week to 10 days. The state, in its short geographical span, holds numerous beautiful places of interests, each of which merits a visit.

With friendly locals, good connectivity and decent internet, Goa has emerged as an obvious choice for digital nomad hot spot in India. Slow traveling, living by the beach, great cafes and regular interaction with creative artists, Goa promises all of these and more. I have seen western families traveling to Goa with kids and their homework pile and solving mathematics by the beach. It felt surreal to some extent. Our summer vacations were ll about visiting Dadu and learning English grammar in the afternoon by the “ parar pukur “, local pond!

Top Things to Do in Goa

Goa is lauded as the beach capital of India. There are countless beautiful beaches in Goa, with Baga being one of the longest in entire world. They are sometimes hidden by a cliff, sometime out in the open. Some beaches in Goa are protector of lagoon. Some of them emerge with tidal waves. Beach hopping is what you must do when in Goa.

My pick for top 5 beaches in Goa!

• Cancolim Beach: the best in North Goa. The crowd is decent. Shacks were nice. Restaurants close-by were serving delicious food. Nightlife is good too.
• Ashwem beach: The best looking beach with white sand and blue sky as the backdrop. Located by the cliffs hence a bit hidden from the outside world. private and sky. No shack nearby.
• Vagator beach: Best looking beach as you get a perspective from the cliff. Chapora fort is located close which is an amazing place to catch the sunset!
• Colva beach: The only beach in Goa where I found translucent clear water despite heavy crowd During independence day. There is a shack close by where they serve Bengali meal too! I think it was named a Sonar Bangla. Local fishermen’s boat create beautiful photo ops at the Colva beach.
• Palolem beach: One of the best beaches in South Goa. It is coming up fast with many activities, local markets and food joints close by.

Also read: A complete guide to wildlife safari at Masaimara, Kenya!

Goa beyond the beaches!

However, there are tonnes of offbeat things to do in Goa . They span from cultural exploration to adventure activities.

1. Explore Old Goa. Velha Goa . It houses Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, both UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. Explore colorful neighborhood of Fontainhas , a piece of Portugal at the heart of Goa!

3. Take a day trip to the mighty Doodhsagar falls. Be cognizance of the fact that only local cars take you to the top. Only a limited number of car gets permit everyday hence it is best if you start your day early.

4. Sinquerim beach is the hot bed for all the water sport activities in Goa. Water sports are subject to a clear weather day. Parasailing, jet ski and banana boat are the most fun activities in my opinion.

5. Birding at Dr. Salim Ali Sanctuary is one of the prized experience in Goa. If you have time, I suggest take a day off to Dandeli wildlife Sanctuary and watch the pied piper hornbills in North Karnataka.

Yoga in Goa

Plenty of Yoga Teacher training school and Yoga retreats have come up in Goa. I stayed at the Devaaya resort and has taken part in Sunrise Yoga sessions which was uplifting holistic experience. Do not forget to pack a few yoga mats in your Goa bound luggage because there is nothing more refreshing than starting an active day on a beach.

Nightlife in Goa

There is no dearth of option in Goa, if you are a social animal. From night long trance parties to casino to nightclubs, central Goa usually stays abuzz with events for the whole night!

• Play at one of the casino cruise when in Goa. I went to Delyin and I liked the experience despite sort of meh food.
• LPK (Love Passion Karma) at Nerul is one club with decent crowd. Club Cubana is nice too.

Money Matters

Goa can be traveled in a shoestring budget. Goa can easily turn into a luxurious trip if you are in a mood to splurge. Options are wide and endless!

Night clubs, Casino, fine dine restaurants like Thalassa are few of the high class places to visit in Goa. For luxury stay, go with the Taj Aguada.

Like the rest of India, cash is the king in Goa, especially when you are buying from local markets or eating at the street side joints. Cash will make you and the seller happy. However card and in some cases digital wallets (think PayTM, much like M-pesa in Kenya or google Pay) works too.

Stay Connected: Wifi in Goa

Goa is well connected with most prominent Indian network (think Airtel, Vodaphone, or more recent Jio). However, I have seen network drops as you proceed towards obscure interior of the state.

Most of the hotels and beach side cafes provide decent wifi to get some work done, if not streaming a Netflix series.

Tracing back the Hippie trail from olden Goa!

The ghost of 70s hippie trail is yet to give Goa a respite. A typical hippie with grunge deadlocks and deep understanding of empty meagerness of life is a rare find. What you can find is a lot of western travelers tucked away at the fringe end of North and South Goa beaches. Think Arambol. Think Mandrem. Think Patnem.

Arambol is famed for the evening drum songs on the beach.

Souvenir Shopping in Goa

The iconic flea market of Anjuna and the likes of it which have mushroomed in recent times sell a number of interesting stuff. Though it may feel like a bargain, I tell you a bitter truth. I have bought/seen similar silver anklets or beaded necklace for lesser price at Gariahat market, Kolkata . Buy jewelry only if you are not heading to Kolkata in near future!

Bargaining in Indian local market is an art by itself. I usually start from 1/3rd of the initial quote. It may yield a good buy or sometimes I have to let it go.

Flea markets in Goa in earlier days used to sell imported goods which were off limits by virtue of a socialist state. Now that the entire globe is one village and we are swimming in a globalized market, most of these products make their way from China.

I usually sky away from these souvenir shops unless I am on the lookout for a quick swimwear. My favorite souvenirs from Goa are:

• A bottle of Feni
• Kunbi saree
• Musical instruments
• Bibinca cake
• Bottle of Kokum Juice
• Spices, especially black pepper and bird’s eye chillies
• Azulejos: Handpainted tiles of Goa

I Know. I am inching towards a life sans hedonism!

Arpora night market is a famous addition. So are the Sunday night markets. There are aplenty in Goa.

Stay safe when in Goa!

Goa is a safe place to travel to.

You may come across few rare news of violence against tourists in Goa. To be honest, I have traveled in Goa during a natural calamity (Cyclone Kyarr) and was scared of pack of dogs more than unknown male.

I was traveling solo. Even when I was traveling with friends, Goa was a safe place.

It is not the locals of Goa, but people traveling to Goa that create problem. Stay AWAY if you spot a group of male friends.

If people want to click a selfie with you, and come close with that excuse, strictly deny. This has escalated into unpleasant consequences in past. If you are making new friends and drinking with them, be very very cautious, irrespective of the new friends’ gender. Traveling from Central Goa to North (say Baga to Ashwem/Arambol) may turn out to be a tricky choice if you are a solo woman. I would suggest, try to pack your day by sunlight, especially if you are traveling alone and do not have a private vehicle.

Uber does not work in Goa. They have an app named Goa Miles. It works. Sometimes, it does not. It is a bit tricky. You should always have a plan B.

Mosquito and insect repellents are must when you are packing for Goa. Mosquito bites can make you susceptible to Malaria, Dengue apart from unpleasant looking rash.

When you discover an empty beach, be careful while approaching the bush or jungle nearby. Poisonous snake may call it home! yes, I have encountered a Cobra when in Goa. I am still alive and writing this blog post so do not panic!

Responsible Travel Tips for Goa

The Single Use plastic menace in Goa!

Beaches in Goa goes through surging plastic pollution, littering and other vices during tourist season. I have seen plogging party arranged by local communities at Arambol however there is no permanent solution to it. Plastic is hardly recycled in Goa.

Each coconut you buy, comes with a straw which put me off to no end. Traditionally, coconut juice is drunk in India from the shell itself. A few droplets will drench your shirt but that’s the beauty of it. Straws have emerged as the new devil.

Try to be mindful when you consume and stay away from accepting that extra single use plastic. Small things like carrying own tiffin-box for a take away counts in the longer run too!

Wildlife in Goa

Goa is largely saved from the vices of animal riding, say horses or camels on the beach. There are cows on the beach in abundance but they cohabit with humans, and work on the field on season, with the farmer. India remains largely an Agriculture based economy.

The only time I found disturbing proximity to animals were when local fishermen approach you for Dolphin tours. They will basically chase the dolphins in their natural habitat. I say leave it to your luck. I met dolphin in Goa when I was on a water bike. It came, pranced along by the side and swam alongside for 5 minutes before disappearing. What a blissful experience!

Support the local artist in Goa

Goa has a thriving artist community. Multiple art gallery dot the street side of Baga and calangute. Make sure you visit one and support the artist by buying her creation. Goa also has beautiful checkered print Saree, also known as Kunbi Saree. I think they add value to any collector’s wardrobe.

Alcohol & Drug in Goa

Due to relaxed taxation policy, alcohol is cheaper in Goa than other states in India. The local moonshine, Feni, has earned a GI tag and is a must try when in Goa. However drunk driving is a punishable offence by law, anywhere in India. Buying alcohol in Goa and taking is to other states can also draw ire of the authority. Do check with your flight/transport provider.

Drug consumption is punishable offence in India. Ganja/weed is sometimes sold on the beach by some over enthusiast chaps, which is an illegal act by itself. Of course it can lead to what happened to Saif Ali Khan in Dil Chahta Hain. Find out at your own risk!

Also read: Kaziranga, home to India’s one horned Rhino populace!

What to wear in Goa

Wearing a bikini/swimsuit in Goa: Yay or nay?

Beaches in Goa are more relaxed in dressing code compared to other Indian beaches. I have personally worn bikini in the following beaches and did not attract unwanted male stare/attention: Baga, Calangute, Candolim, Vagator, Colva, Arambol, Ashwem. Palolem is cool as well.

If you are staying by a beach-side resort, you can generally venture out in the sea in a bikini. When you are walking in the city, or going to eat at restaurants, please do NOT wear swimwear. It is not acceptable.

Hinterlands of Goa is made of traditional Indian households where modest clothing is encouraged. You will not stand out and can easily use public transport if you wear something that covers shoulder and knees. Carry a stole as that will help you to stay safe from the bright sun, fight back humidity and enter temples or churches if any.

Public toilet in Goa

Depending on the hotel you choose, you are likely to encounter a western toilet for a mid-budget to luxury route. For a more budget friendly option, Indian style toilet may make an appearance. It is does, learn to use the mug. In this part of the world, we do our business with water. If you want your tissue bad, I suggest carry some in the purse.

Pin it for later!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the  disclosure  post. If you have liked the article, you may support it by buying using these links without any extra cost to you.

Let’s stay connected on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Twitter ! You may also consider joining my mailing list. I send travel and photography related emails only once a month!

35 Responses

Wow – clearly we need to put Goa on our Asia bucket list! Thank you for the very informative post.

Wow! What a comprehensive guide! I’ve only visited once some 25+ years ago! I’d love to go again with kids that age ?. I’ll save your guide to use it later

I will be heading to Goa soon. Am glad I came across you post!

Wonderful Pictures!! Goa is a great place where you can enjoy your trip with anyone like your family or friends, loved your blog. Goa being the most attractive place where all love to visit to have a peaceful vacation.

Wow,very nice blog and it is a comprehensive article which is very clearly explain and with the help of it we can explore it in well mannerd way.

Wow, very nice blog. we can explore it in a well manner way. Thanks for Sharing this info.

Goa is just treat to visit, as it has many events, places, festivals and many more to come across. Multiple beaches you mentioned where we can visit.The party we can enjoy, especially the goan food which goa is known it etc this all attract the visitor to go their and you have perfectly explained in your blog.

As soon as everything gets back in place i so wanna pack and head up to goa asap.

“Wow!!- Goa is Damn cool! It’s high up on my bucket list And The pictures is amazing and It’s really beautiful catching Content – Thanks for sharing all this great information. Glad you had a tremendous time there

Great tips for non locals. Goa is a must visit destination, it’s on my (long) list now.

I was amazed by the fact that information provided by you in this blog is so helpful ,

Keep it up!

Thankyou for such a wonderful article

Thanks for providing

I have been to goa a couple of cases then again there is so a total lot larger to find out there. Thanks for sharing the article.

i read your blog on goa it was very creative and innovative also go through our website

Thanks for sharing such a piece of wonderful information. Your knowledge about the topic is great please keep sharing.

Very valuable information, it is not at all blogs that we find this. Goa is my favorite place.

Thank you for a wonderful article about the destination. It provides a entirely new perspective about Goa, the dream destination.

This article is giving me such nice information and also when it comes to travel there are several options for transportation. I live in Mumbai, and I love to travel in India and the best mode of transport is car rental in India. Prince Hire Cab Service is best car rental provider in Mumbai.

Being a Goan, I am proud of my city. Thank you the great article.

The details as per the heading is useful for the Goa debutants, and I felt they are pretty much useful and specific which would help travelers save money and time

Wonderful post. and you Nice used words in this article and beautifully post it. Thanks for sharing.

Thank you for writing such an informative essay about the destination. It gives a whole new perspective on Goa, the fantasy vacation spot. The excursion was fantastic, especially the banana ride, which I thoroughly liked. The best things to do in Goa were scuba diving, jet skiing, and snorkelling while admiring the splendour of the underwater marine life.

Thanks for writing this great article for us. I have gained good stuff from this website. Looking forward to your next article. I am happy to share this post to my friends. Keep it up.

Thankyou so much for this amazing information, The way you explain the things was so commendable, It really help me out in Goa and one of the best part in Goa except all the parties and beaches was the place where i stay Resort Rio it was so good to stay in Goa not because of the service but every great place is so close like the baga beach, Nightclubs and the flea markets.

I like your blog post and and I really appreciate this blog post also it is according to the niche and we are the travel peoples and like to travel across the world & also try us.

Great article and I would like to visit goa after this article. it’s valuable

Found your post interesting to read. Good Luck for the upcoming update.This article is really very interesting.

After reading this article I will plan a trip to Goa…. Thanks for sharing this information with us.

Nice Blog…. This is really amazing. Great information about goa

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us. We provide Car rental services in Goa. Convenient & affordable to your advantage.If you are looking for Self Drive Car Rental in Goa , do contact us.

Goa is always a best place to enjoy. Everyone needs a break from this day to day work and have to enjoy the life. Those who dont know where to travel, just head over to Goa and if dont know hoe to enjoy just read this blog.

Nice and detailed information

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us. We provide Car rental services in Goa. Convenient & affordable to your advantage.If you are looking for Rent a Car in Goa , do contact us.

Great Post. I love with all these beautiful and useful information. Good you explained everything in detail it has been a great help. Thanks for sharing the Useful and Informative Blog.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Best Time To Visit Goa

Top hotel collections.

Beach Resorts

5-star Hotels

What is the best time to visit Goa?

The best time to visit Goa is from  November to February when the weather is ideal for sightseeing and relaxing on the stunning beaches. The temperature during this time ranges around 20 to 30 degrees Celcius and it is also the peak tourist season in Goa.  Monsoons from June to September are another great time to visit Goa if you love the beach during rains. Summer is not a good time to visit Goa. With the temperature fluctuating between 25 to 35 degrees Celcius, the weather from March to May  is extremely hot and humid.

Weather in Goa

Upcoming Goa Weather

Monthly weather in goa, goa travel packages.

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

3 Nights 4 Days Goa Holiday Tour Package

Time to unwind in goa, goa with amazing water sports fun, goa with family and kids, goa - winter special, offbeat tour package: chikmagalur, hampi & more with goa, more about best time to travel to goa, best time for adventure seekers, best time for honeymooners, goa in winter (november - february).

Goa in Monsoon (July - September)

Goa in Summer (March - June)

Events in Goa

India bike week.

24th - 25th November

Sao Joao Feast, Across Goa (Siolim Particularly)

Water sports activities.

October - May

Goa Carnival

2nd March 2019

Shigmo Festival

21st March 2019

Igitun Chalne

International film festival of india -iffi.

20th November 2019 - 28th November 2019

Sufi Sutra International Sufi Music Festival By Kala Academy Goa

6th - 8th February

Related Posts

Best Time to Visit India

Places To Visit In Goa

Calangute Beach

Fort Aguada

Cruise in Goa

Water Sports in Goa

Dudhsagar Falls

Anjuna Beach

Nearby Places

+ 48 photos

Browse Package Collections

Goa package collections.

Goa Honeymoon Packages

Nearby Destinations for Packages

Mahabaleshwar

Browse Hotel Collections

By hotel type.

Best Resorts in Goa

Best Villas in Goa

Best Hotels in Goa

Best Resorts in South Goa for a quaint vacation

Best Homestays In Goa For A Pleasant Goan Retreat

Best Villas in Goa with Private Pool

Best Hotels In North Goa

Best Luxury Resorts In Goa

Best Cottages In Goa for a Rustic Stay

Best Villas in North Goa

Best Villas in Calangute

By Budget Category

Best 5-star Hotels In Goa

Cheap Hotels In Goa

Budget Hotels In Goa

ITC Hotels In Goa

OYO Hotels In Goa

Goa Hotels Near Airport

Best Budget Resorts In Goa

Hotels in North Goa

Cheapest 5 Star Hotel In Goa

Budget Hotels In Calangute

By Star Category

3 Star Hotels In Goa

4-star hotels in Goa

Best 5-Star Hotels in South Goa for the Beach Stay

Best 5-Star Hotels in North Goa

3 Star Hotels In North Goa

5 Star Hotels In Candolim

3 Star Hotels In Calangute

5 Star Hotels In Calangute

3 Star Hotels In Candolim

With Specific Facilities

Taj Hotels In Goa

Hotels In Goa Near Calangute Beach

Resorts In Goa With Private Pool

Best Hostels In North Goa

Hilton Hotels In Goa

Hotels In Goa With Bathtub

Resorts Near Calangute Beach

Hotels Near Candolim Beach

Lodges In Goa

Hotels Near Colva Beach

Hotels Near Palolem Beach

Near Landmarks

Resorts Near Anjuna Beach

Resorts Near Candolim Beach

Resorts Near Colva Beach

Resorts Near Palolem Beach

Villas Near Calangute Beach

Hotels Near Benaulim Beach

Hotels Near Bogmalo Beach

Hotels Near Morjim Beach

Resorts Near Dudhsagar Falls

Resorts Near Vagator Beach

Hotels Near Agonda Beach

For Special Purposes

Best Beach Resorts In Goa For a relaxing getaway

Best Hotels in Goa Near Beaches

Best Beach Resorts in South Goa

Resorts with Private Beach in Goa for a Luxe Beach Vacay

Best Beach Resorts in Calangute

Resorts in North Goa for the Perfect Beach Vibes

Best Beach Resorts in Anjuna

Best Beach Resorts in Candolim

Best Beach Resorts in North Goa

Best Beach Resorts in Arambol

Best Yoga Retreats In Goa

Similar Places

Beaches & Islands

Best Beaches In Goa for a Great Time in the Sun

Casinos in Goa

Experiences

Car Rentals in Goa - Helpful Guide on How to Rent a Car in Goa

Beaches in South Goa For A Perfect Beach Holiday

Scuba Diving In Goa - Price, Location, & Operators

Beautiful Churches of Goa

View All posts about Goa

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

What to pack for a Goa trip: A Practical No-Fuss List + Guide 2023

This website contains no sponsored content. The content is written entirely on my own and is based on my personal experience and extensive research. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Wondering what to pack for a Goa trip? Don’t worry, I have got the best goa trip packing list presented in a clear no-fuss manner.

In this post, I will share with you exactly what you should pack for a trip to Goa, things to avoid carrying and basic Goa packing tips. You can simply save the list and start packing for your Goa trip without any overwhelm.

As you know, I have been to Goa over twenty times and in every age and stage of my life (as a child, a teenager, with my husband, during pregnancy, as a new mom and as a mom to a toddler!) Based on my experience of packing for a Goa trip, I can assure you that while dressing up (or down!) is far more acceptable in Goa than in other Indian states, it’s not a matter over which you should lose your sleep or get overwhelmed.

When packing for a trip to Goa, you need to carry lots of comfortable clothes, a few fancy clothes, good swimwear, comfortable footwear and sun protection.

In the article below, I discuss in detail all about the type of clothes to carry, non-negotiable skincare products needed for a Goa trip as well as items that you could leave out. Read the post below for an easy-to-follow list.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Basic Packing Tips for Goa

Before we dive into exactly what to pack, let me share a few tips that you should keep in mind when you pack for a Goa trip.

1. Sun protection is non-negotiable

The sun in Goa is harsh, even in winters. Plus to make things worse, we tend to spend large portions of the day outdoors- on the beach, at forts and other tourist attractions or riding two-wheelers.

Carrying a high-quality sunscreen is an absolute must for men and women.

I have faced severe skinburn on trips where I have forgotten a good sunscreen and my burnt skin has literally peeled and flaked for weeks after coming back from the trip. It was so embarassing that I have had to keep my sunburnt arms covered with full-sleeved shirts and jackets for a few weeks after the trip.

So learn from my mistake and buy a good sunscreen.

Get a 50+ SPF Sunscreen

2. Don’t overpack

All the major tourist areas in Goa have enough shops selling clothes, handbags, jewellery and swimwear for men, women and kids. You will also find medical shops in all tourist areas.

Thus, don’t overpack (to be on the safe side). If you think you’ve forgotten something, you can easily buy it for cheap in Goa.

In fact, on a number of trips to Goa, I have bought beach cover-ups and tops locally instead of carrying them to Goa from Mumbai. I find the variety of tops and beach cover ups far better and affordable in Goa than in other Indian cities.

That’s also why, many foreigners buy most of their clothing upon reaching Goa.

Wondering where to stay in Goa?

• the best areas to stay in Goa for all types of travellers
• the best accommodation options in Goa
• area-wise insights on where to stay in North Goa and South Goa

3. Leave space for shopping

It’s hard to not shop when in Goa.

All the major beach areas are flooded with touristy shops. Goa is also known for its cashews and cheap booze.

Many tourists thus end up shopping quite a bit when in Goa.

So make sure you leave enough space in your bags to bring back everything you buy in Goa.

Related posts:

Best Trolley bags in India: An Ultimate Guide 2023

Can you carry alcohol on a domestic flight: Rules Explained

4. Opt for comfortable clothing

The weather in Goa is mostly hot with temperatures ranging between 27-38 for the most part of the year. Goan weather is only pleasant during winter i.e. between November to February.

Read my article on the best time to visit Goa as per months and seasons

So even if you want to look stylish all throughout, don’t pack clothes that are not comfortable.

Avoid clothes that are-

• of a synthetic fabric

Wearing such clothes will cause excessive uncomfortable sweating. Opt for cotton, breathable clothes in lighter shades.

5. Keep a few modest items of clothing

Goa is one place for which you can happily pull out your skimpy clothes. But reserve them for beachtime or other casual outings.

For church and temple visits, you will have to dress a bit more conservatively. Avoid sleeveless clothing or clothing above knee-length.

6. Choose the right colours (For perfect Instagram pics)

If you want to click the best pics for your Instagram, get your colour game right. Here are a few quick suggestions

• Wear bold colors for Parra Road (the famous filming location of Dear Zindagi). Bold colours beautifully contrast the pale street shades and the neutral hues of the coconut trees in the background.
• For beach pictures – opt for dreamy neautral shades. They complement the beach colors irrespective of the time of the day and enhance the lazy, laidback vibe.
• Wear whites in Fountainhas – Fountainhas is a street full of colourful houses. To avoid getting camouflaged with any house colour or to conflict with the colours of the street, it is safest to wear beautiful textured white clothes.

What to pack for your Goa Trip: A Full Checklist

Now that you know the rules of what to pack for a Goa trip, here is a quick and handy checklist.

• A few dresses – Great for cafés and tourist spots
• Shorts & Tops – good for comfortable scooter rides, hikes and adventure activities
• Beachwear like a Bikini, Tankini, Beach cover-up, sarongs
• Party Outfits – for the club nights
• Casual clothes – for cafés, tourist spots and casual outings (include a few athlectic clothing pieces for adventure activities and hikes)
• Fancy clothes – for club nights

2. Footwear

• A pair of good flip flops – for the beach or for quick outdoor outings not involving much climbing
• Casual sandals/shoes – for evenings out with friends and family
• Heels, closed shoes – for club visits
• Outdoor shoes for hikes and adventure activities like bungee jumping

3. Accessories

• Jewellery (Consider buying at a flea market in Goa)
• Hair clips, hair bands, etc. – needed to keep your hair in place when riding on a scooter.
• A good camera phone (with protection – to protect against water and sand damage) + A zip-lock cover for the phone (for when you go for watersport activities)
• Drone for overhead shots (completely optional)
• Go Pro for bike, underwater & adventure footage (completely optional)
• Chargers of all your gadgets
• Kindle – for reading by the pool or on the beach
• Headphones/Earphones/Airpods

Add such other gadgets as you consider fit or are used to travelling with on your trips. The ones listed above are recommended specifically for a Goa trip.

• A nice backpack – to keep all your belongings safely for days involving touristy outings
• A Large tote bags for beach time or casual, unplanned outings

6. Skin and hair protection

• Sunscreen – At least SPF 50 like this one
• Hat/Cap (You can buy a hat in Goa itself- lots of variety and super cheap)
• A good mosquito-repellant cream (especially important during monsoons)

In addition to this, carry your favourite shampoo, moisturiser, cleanser, toner or any other products that form part of your daily skin and hair care routine. The ones listed above are non-negotiable for a trip to Goa.

• Torch Light – For late night outings in deserted areas like Cabo de Rama (avoid as best possible) or secluded beaches.

I love this torch light. It’s lightweight and works on easily available AAA batteries – check on Amazon

• Powerbank – to get the most out of your phone on long touristy days or beach days.
• Pepper spray (optional) – advisable for solo women travellers

This pocket-sized one with a solid range is very travel-friendly – check on Amazon

8. For vehicle rentals

• Valid Id card
• Driving license

9. For monsoons

• An umbrella or raincoat

Final Thoughts

Honestly, packing for Goa is not as big a challenge as packing for other destinations could be. The weather in Goa is fairly standard and the Goa packing list given above should work for any season.

If you are travelling with a baby to Goa, you can rely on my comprehensive article on how to travel with a baby for detailed insights. ( click here to read article )

Check out my easy-to-follow digital travel plan specially curated for your travel style

Goa: Planned for You

A handy digital travel plan that includes

• Specially curated stay recommendations
• restaurant suggestions
• a day-wise break-up of things to do
• a fully interactive Goa map
• special insights and lots more!

Travelling to Goa soon? Check out more articles:

46 things to do in Goa: An Ultimate Guide

3 days in North Goa: Best Places to Visit

5 days in Goa: An Ultimate Guide

12 Useful Tips to visit Goa on a budget

South Goa Itinerary for 1,2,3,4,5 days

Save for later

TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES

Here is a list of our favorite travel resources- the ones that I absolutely swear by when planning almost every trip. Go through this list to plan a hassle-free trip and save a lot of money!

Flight Booking: Check the availability of tickets, the best time to fly, and the cheapest fares on Skyscanner . You may also find a cheap flight via CheapOair

Accommodation: I absolutely love booking through Agoda . In most countries and particularly in Asia, I often find the best fares on Agoda. But I also love the no prepayment and no cancellation fee policy of Booking.com . For cheap accommodations and hostels, nothing beats Hostelworld .

Car Rentals: You may find and rent an appropriate car via RentalCars . It’s hassle-free and reliable.

Guided Tours: I absolutely love GetYourGuide for local sightseeing tours, walking tours, history tours, and food tours. The booking process is seamless, and the tours are super affordable. But in Asian countries, I prefer Viator or Klook for their affordably priced tours.

Lounge Access : Get Priority Pass – my personal favorite card that gives me unlimited access to premium airport lounges all over the world

Hey, if you found this post helpful, share it with more people or buy me a coffee !

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

Similar Posts

Best Time to Visit Goa: What to Expect, Weather, Activities, etc.

Goa is one of the busiest tourist destinations in all of India. But the experience of visiting Goa greatly…

Where to stay in Goa: 17 Best Areas for All Travel Types 2023

This is a post that will answer all your stay-related questions on Goa. The post has information on The…

Goa Itinerary for 5 days: The Most Reliable Goa Trip Plan

Every time someone asks me to recommend a Goa trip plan, I perform a little jig in my head!…

10 Things to do in Goa with Kids: Useful Ideas & Insights 2023

Want to travel to Goa with your kids and wondering what all you could do? In this post I…

North Goa vs South Goa (for Parties, Couples and Families)

Wondering where to stay on your Goa trip and want the exact difference between North Goa and South Goa?…

Best Beaches in Goa: For Couples, Families, and Foreigners

Want to visit the best beaches in Goa? There are many to choose from! Find a selection of the…

trending now in Lifestyle

Plus-size influencer rips airport worker who allegedly refused to...

Porn star issues stark warning to young girls: 'You’re falling...

Ozempic dupe costs just $5 at your local gas station — and Gen...

Bride and groom blasted for 15 outrageous wedding-day rules for...

I used to work for the Queen — now I live in a bug-infested...

I have Alzheimer's — I'm beating back the deadly disease with...

Dear Abby: My husband is creating a hostile home for me and my...

You’ll never worry about AI stealing your job working in these...

Greg Giangrande

The unlicensed weed shop i worked for was shut down — can i get unemployment.

• View Author Archive
• Email the Author
• Follow on Twitter
• Get author RSS feed

Contact The Author

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

I worked for a cannabis shop that apparently was not licensed. It was promptly shut down without any notice, and my employer owes me for two weeks of pay. What can I do? Can I collect unemployment?

Good luck! Your chances of collecting back pay from an illegal proprietor is about as likely as New Yorkers refraining from firing up outdoors, ruining what little fresh air there is in the city. And whether or not you can collect unemployment depends on many factors.

Given it was an unlicensed business, the only way to know for sure is to try filing and see what they say, giving your circumstances, how you were paid, for how long, etc.

In the meantime, while I am sorry for you, I am not sorry for the rest of us — one less outlet to dispense the scourge on our city.

Note to tokers: Your olfactory assault on us while taking a stroll down the street or in the park is equal to the dog walkers who think their retractable leashes are meant for everyone to hopscotch over. Stop it.

I work remotely with the blessing of my employer. With the warm weather, I’ve been enjoying working from the park using my Wi-Fi hot spot. My employer thinks this is unprofessional and sends a bad message to everyone else working from home. Does my employer have the right to tell me which remote location is acceptable to them if I am getting my work done?

Yes. You can’t work from another state or country without your employer’s permission, because it may create legal and tax liability for the employer if they are not set up for that.

And while I assume the park from which you work is located in the same city, if your employer thinks it sends a bad message to have you appear on Zoom in a park setting, where there certainly can be distractions, they similarly have a right to prohibit that.

Perhaps work out a compromise — spend part of the day outdoors, perhaps when you don’t have to make calls. You could pretend that you have a big backyard and you really are at home — although that’s lying, and you could find yourself with more time in the park than you bargained for.

Gregory Giangrande has over 25 years of experience as a chief human resources executive. Hear Greg Wed. at 9:35 a.m. on iHeartRadio 710 WOR with Len Berman and Michael Riedel . Email: [email protected]. Follow: GoToGreg.com and on Twitter: @GregGiangrande

Share this article:

Android Police

How to use google gemini to plan your vacation.

Use Gemini for a stress-free trip-planning experience

Planning a vacation can be as overwhelming as it is exciting, given everything you need to do, from booking flights and accommodations to finding activities that match your interests. To simplify this process, take advantage of Gemini's (formerly known as Google Bard) new set of capabilities. The best part is that you can access the platform through your laptop or Chromebook or use it while you're on the go using your flagship or budget Android phone or iPhone.

How does Gemini make traveling easier?

Gemini, an artificial intelligence platform similar to ChatGPT, is now integrated with various Google services, like Gmail, Google Maps, and Google Flights. Here's how to best use Gemini's capabilities to make trip planning easier.

Check the weather

Gemini's integration with Google Search allows the tool to provide you with real-time information. You can check the weather conditions at your destination and pack appropriately.

Ask for a suggested packing list based on the weather

Not sure what to wear this time of year or want to blend in with the locals? If you're traveling to a new destination and are unfamiliar with the dressing norms of the locals, ask Gemini to generate a list of outfit ideas and other accessories you should pack.

Look up real-time flights for your preferred dates

While you're at it, you can quickly look up flights to your destination and back. This simplifies the process of searching for flights and comparing the prices and durations.

Get a list of hotels for your stay

If you're unsure where to stay during your trip, ask Gemini to create a list of hotels in the area. Gemini's suggestions include names and photos of several hotels, along with each hotel's star rating, a brief description of what you can expect, and the price per night. Use this as a starting point to compare your options and make an informed decision.

Ask for suggested activities in the area

You can ask Gemini to suggest activities you might enjoy during your stay. Gemini tailors its recommendations to your preferences, if any, and suggests events that align with your travel dates.

Request a list of relevant YouTube videos about the destination

If you're traveling to an unfamiliar place and want to know more about things to do in the area, local customs, and not-so-popular attractions, ask Gemini to curate a list of relevant YouTube videos about the destination.

Look up currency conversion rates

If you're traveling abroad, budgeting before you leave is crucial. Gemini can make estimating your expenses and how much money to bring along with you easier by providing real-time currency conversion rates and listing potential expenses you might incur while traveling.

Check out local dining options

Want to enjoy the local fare while you're traveling? Gemini can help you discover the best dining options in the area. You can even specify the type of cuisine you'd like to try to get more relevant results.

Get directions to places

When you have a tentative idea of the places you'd like to visit, Gemini can help you plan your vacation better by giving directions to various places. This can help you map out the most efficient route for your outings and maximize your vacation days.

Here's how to prompt Gemini, according to Google

Be sure to double-check gemini's responses.

Gemini is a powerful AI tool that generates fairly accurate results due to its integration with other Google services. Still, it's best to verify the information it provides, particularly regarding things like local customs, potential expenses, and health advisories.

Make the switch to Gemini

While Gemini has limitations compared to Google Assistant, and you should wait to switch from the latter , using the AI platform with Assistant can make travel planning easier and more straightforward.

• Newsletters
• Account Activating this button will toggle the display of additional content Account Sign out

There’s One Way Jack Smith Can Push Back Against Aileen Cannon

It’s kind of a long shot—but this is hardly a typical situation..

Special counsel Jack Smith is in a bind. While his Jan. 6–related indictment of Donald Trump is stalled until the Supreme Court weighs in, Florida District Court Judge Aileen Cannon gutted Smith’s remaining opportunity to take Trump to trial before the November election—in this case, over allegedly hoarding classified documents. On the face of it, Smith’s hands are tied, but there is one rare legal maneuver he could try to force Cannon’s hand.

It’s called a writ of mandamus , and it’s a centuries-old rule that allows a litigant to bypass their assigned district court judge and go directly to a court of appeals to ask for a court order mandating a judge to correct any abuse of discretion and force them to act according to their judicial duties. It’s essentially a legal slap on the wrist, but it’s rarely used because district court judges are typically given a lot of leeway to run their dockets and appellate courts are loath to get involved.

This is, however, hardly a typical situation, with a former U.S. president facing criminal charges—and Cannon isn’t exactly an ordinary judge, either, having been appointed to her current seat by the defendant . This, coupled with Cannon’s handling of the classified documents case thus far, has led Glenn Danas, an appeals expert and partner at Clarkson Law Firm, to think a writ of mandamus could be in Smith’s reach.

“It seems there’s an appearance of home cooking, because [Trump] appointed Judge Cannon and she is very young and kind of inexperienced,” Danas told Slate. “It seems like she’s going out of her way to afford the defendants an extraordinary amount of time and her own judicial resources to get every single thing that they want done in a way that seems unusual.”

Cannon is currently in her early 40s and was appointed to the federal bench in 2020, when she was just 39 years old . Before that, she was working at a law firm in Florida and had experience as a federal prosecutor. While Cannon was a law student at the University of Michigan, she joined the conservative Federalist Society.

Since Cannon was randomly assigned to Smith’s classified documents case, she’s been accused of slow-walking it, taking an inordinate amount of time to issue decisions on pretrial motions and building a lot of slack into the pretrial deadlines. That’s been a gift to Trump’s defense team, which wants to delay, delay, and delay some more in order to put off having any criminal trial before the November election—presumably because if Trump wins, he could ask his Department of Justice to drop Smith’s indictments against him.

For instance, Trump’s attorneys have argued he was authorized to take whatever documents—including classified ones—he chose to when leaving the White House because, they say, the Presidential Records Act allows for it. However, Smith argued that Trump doesn’t face any charges under the PRA—rather, he’s charged under the Espionage Act and for obstruction of justice—making any PRA–related defense irrelevant.

Cannon, instead of outright deciding on whether or not the PRA is applicable to the classified documents case, asked both sides to put the question to a jury through hypothetical questionnaires. Smith was not happy about this , cautioning Cannon that her lack of decisionmaking would threaten the prosecution’s right to a fair trial and an opportunity to appeal.

And after initially setting a May 20 trial, Cannon indicated for months that the date was unlikely to stick, and asked Smith and the defense to suggest new trial dates . Ultimately, Cannon didn’t heed those recommendations and moved to vacate the trial date from her court schedule altogether, citing “myriad” unresolved pretrial motions.

Cannon’s decisions as she’s overseen this trial don’t add up for Adam Pollock, former assistant attorney general of New York. He told Slate that Cannon’s reasoning reads as “kind of saying that she didn’t do the dishes and therefore the dishes are dirty.”

Kevin McMunigal, a former federal prosecutor and law professor at Case Western Reserve University, agrees. He told Slate that Cannon adopted “a really plodding pace” and questioned if it was due to her inexperience.

Considering all of Cannon’s actions thus far could give Smith grounds for a writ of mandamus. Plus, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11 th Circuit already rebuked Cannon once before Trump was even indicted, chiding her for trying to appoint a special master to oversee the classified documents seized at Mar-a-Lago— which Trump’s attorneys had requested —-instead of allowing Smith access to the documents.

But in order for Smith’s writ to have any chance of consideration by the appellate court, he must prove there is no other adequate legal remedy available. Realistically, Danas and McMunigal don’t think there is one, since once a case is assigned to a judge, technically almost no decision they make can be appealed until the final jury verdict is reached. (A litigant can file an interlocutory appeal if they dispute a judge’s ruling before trial, but it would go to Cannon first, and only if she rejects it can the appeal proceed to the appellate court. The same process applies if Smith were to ask for a new judge. More often than not, appellate courts don’t like to get involved in matters like these.)

“You have to make a case that if the 11 th Circuit Court of Appeals doesn’t jump in, you’re going to suffer some sort of harm that can’t be fixed later,” said Danas. “It might be something like an invasion of privilege or maybe disqualification of counsel.” It boils down to showing the appellate court that Cannon has abused her discretion in a way that’s permanently going to damage Smith’s case. And one way the special counsel could achieve this is by simply admitting he wants to take Trump to trial before the November election.

The special counsel has never explicitly said in public statements or court filings that he wants a speedy trial for Trump before the presidential election, likely in an effort to evade any accusations of bias or ill motive. (Instead, Smith has said there is a “ national interest ” in seeing Trump’s charges “resolved promptly.”) However, given the gravity of his classified documents case and Cannon’s recent decision to eliminate a trial date, Danas believes Smith could seriously consider showing his cards. “Perhaps it’s better just to be forthright about it and say, ‘I’m a special prosecutor and I don’t necessarily have a political dog in the fight, but I think it’s important for the country’s functioning to get these things done in an average way; if not on a fast track, then at least on a normal track.’ ”

Through all rungs of the country’s judicial system, maintaining a sense of fairness is a major concern, and if Smith argues Cannon is indulging in an extraordinary amount of delay in order to push this trial past the November election, which helps Trump, it could convince the appellate court to consider his writ.

“If I were working on this, I would file a writ of mandamus ASAP,” said Danas.

The 15th Anniversary cape

Get a special cape and today’s Character Creator item

Welcome to day 3 of our 15th anniversary celebration! And today is a special one, because it’s Minecraft’s actual birthday. Yes, on May 17, 2009, Cave Game came out and caused a butterfly effect that would lead to you reading this article 15 years later. Fascinating! And what better way to celebrate such a consequential day than with a free cake!!! Wait a second, how would we send... Oh I see, it’s not cake, it’s a CAPE!!!

Starting today, you can claim the exclusive anniversary cape to wear when setting out on your next adventure or on your favorite server. It’s yours to keep, so show it off however you want! Just don’t make any hissing noises or you might startle someone. Swoosh over to the redeem page to get yours!

Enter the cherry grove on YouTube

Liven up your content with the Minecraft Spring 360º YouTube Shorts effect , which immerses you in a stunning cherry grove with some fun surprises that you can explore using your device’s camera. Plus, I’ve heard something cool happens if you Google "Minecraft” during the celebration... But that’s just a rumor. *winks aggressively*

A kick-axe birthday wish

Who knew that our 15th anniversary would finally bring us our 15 minutes of fame? We enjoyed the birthday message we got from Jack Black and Jason Momoa SO much that we’ve even uploaded it to our own YouTube channel! Check it out:

Today’s free Character Creator item

Speaking of capes, did you know they were introduced all the way back in the Java Edition Beta 1.0? To be honest, I’m more of a fancy hat person myself. Which is great for me, because today’s freebie is the Ender Hood ! Wear this Character Creator item proudly, whether you’ve already bested the Ender Dragon or keep a healthy distance from the End. Head to the Dressing Room to claim it now! 

Three days into the 15-year celebration and there's no slowing down this minecart! How will the next surprise shape your world? Check Minecraft.net daily so you don’t miss out on the festivities.  

SHARE THIS STORY

Community creations.

Discover the best add-ons, mods, and more being built by the incredible Minecraft community!

Block...Block...Block...