3 Hidden Gems of Goa India

Agona_beach_Goa_IndiaI don't think I have met a beach that I didn't like. From powdery white sandy beaches to the beaches peppered with icebergs from nearby glaciers, I love a good beach. When I heard that India had some beaches worth checking out, I reached out to Pujarini Mitra, a travel writer, blogger, and mom. She has created an ultimate list of the three places you should check out near India's beach region, Goa.

Let's beach it with Pujarini!

3 Hidden Gems of Goa India

If you have visited India or planning to do so, I am sure you have heard about Goa. Being located on the South Western coast of India, Goa has an international airport which is well connected to the rest of the world. It’s the most visited beach destination in India and attracts all kinds of travelers from around the world. Goa has something for everyone. It’s also a budget-friendly destination for all types of travelers from backpackers to luxury seekers. While Goa is mostly popular for its party beaches, there are enough and more offbeat experiences that this state has to offer.

Experience the Serenity at Agonda Beach

Agonda_Beach_Goa_India_DaytimeNorth Goa is where most of the action is, whether you are looking for adventure water sports or partying through the night. But if you are looking for some relaxation and yoga lessons, head over to the pristine beaches in South Goa. We love uncrowded beaches and Agonda is our favorite pick in South Goa. If your ideal vacation is spending most of the day on a lounge chair with a book or a drink in hand, then Agonda is your beach. Stay in a beach hut and wake up to the view of the sea and experience bliss. South Goa also houses some beautiful wildlife sanctuaries which are perfect for a close to nature stay and spot some wildlife. You can also do river rafting at Dandeli and visit the magnificent waterfalls at Jog falls which is about two hours drive from South Goa.

Explore the Church Circuit of Old Goa

Basilica_Bom_Church_Goa_IndiaOld Goa has some beautiful ancient churches which make a perfect day tour. The most famous church in Goa is Bom Jesus Basilica which is also UNESCO heritage site. It hosts the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, who was a missionary and healer from the 16th century. The other famous church and most photographed is the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. It is a landmark in Goa located at Church Square, Panaji and has been filmed in many Bollywood movies. Every year, Festival of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is held on 8 December and the church is colorfully lit up. Two other major churches on this circuit are Se Cathedral and Chapel of St. Catherine.

Dance through the Goa Carnival Parade

Goa_India_Carnival_ImageGoa Carnival is the Mardi Gras festival that celebrates the culture and cuisine of Goa every year (during February). It is a tradition that dates back to the arrival of Portuguese in Goa way back in 1510. It’s fun and crazy and should be experienced at least once to see hundreds of locals and travelers come out on the roads to party. The carnival goes on for four days and nights when the legendary King Momo takes over the state and orders his subjects to party. The streets blaze with music and color and merrymaking is in the air. The carnival parade moves through the major towns of Goa through these four days and following the carnival is a great way to explore Goa.

**Post contributed by Pujarini Mitra, an entrepreneur with a serious travel addiction. Pujarini writes MySoulTravels, which compiles her family's travel stories from unique accommodations, eating local food, traveling with a baby, and more.**

1 Response

  1. Wow! Have been to Goa twice but still have missed out on so many places.

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