Goa, the beach Capital of India is the one spot destination for the people having a profound love for beaches, Churches, Water Sports, Fishes and Feni. Located on the western coast of India, it sights a unique blend of Eastern and Western architecture, Hindu and Christian culture and the Indian and Portuguese lifestyle. Being referred as the Pearl of the Orient, Goa not only ranks amongst the best beach destinations but is also among the forerunners of the hospitality industry that seems the reason for it being visited by a large number of tourists from around the world.

The luxury hotels in Goa are among the finest hotels in the country that come with good dining options that include nice restaurants that serve up a varied menu, coffee shops, bars and lounges with great ambiance. The dining facility is of great help to guests and their varied menu also offers numerous gastronomic delights to travelers.

Once you have chosen an accommodation to your liking you need to dig up the major tourist attractions of Goa that you should visit while on your vacation to Goa. Since Goa is dotted with a large number of tourist sights, it is difficult to cover all the attraction in a tour with numbered days.  So scroll down a little further to know about the best eight places to visit on your tour to Goa.

Fort Aguada

Aguada Fort Goa

Aguada Fort, which crowns the rocky flattened top of the headland, is the best-preserved Portuguese bastion in Goa. It is one of the largest forts in Goa that is well preserved and is an extremely important landmark in the Goan history. At present the Aguada fort houses the central jail.  On the north side of the fort is a rampart just into the bay to form a jetty between the two small sandy coves, which makes for a picturesque spot. The fort also has a four storey Portuguese lighthouse that is situated inside the fortress being the oldest of its kind in Asia.

Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Sanguem taluka is spread across an area of 208.4 sq.km and is linked with the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a house of a wide range of wildlife and bird species making it a paradise for the bird watchers. The sanctuary is well known for its semi and evergreen forests.

Lamgau Caves

Lamgau Caves in Goa

The Lamgau Caves are a sure to visit place for the people seeking a bit of adventure. To reach the caves at Lamgau take an off beaten track or drive to the cave through Bicholim, which is on the way towards Mapusa. The caves are majestic and quite artistic in design. Also visit the small stream besides the caves.

Old Goa

St. Francis Xavier Church Goa

Old Goa is the current capital of Goa. A visit to Old Goa is a must, which still retains the grace and charm of a bygone era. One of the most visited sites in Old Goa is the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the remains of the body of Saint Francis Xavier. Other interesting places to see in Old Goa are up on Holy Hill, are the Chapel of our Lady of the Rosary and the Convent of Santa Monica.

Calangute beach

Calangute Beach Goa

Calangute beach is often called the “Queen of Beaches”. The hyperactive nightlife of this place makes it prominent worldwide. You may also enjoy para-sailing, toboggan ski biscuit, yachting, sport fishing, swimming, snorkeling and harpoon fishing at this beach. Explore the Calangute beach by searching for any unique local seafood especially fried prawns and fish. There is no dearth of local and continental dishes here.

Goa State Museum

Entrance to Goa State Museum

The Goa State Museum is very popular among the history freaks and general tourists. The Goa State Museum is categorized in twelve galleries that houses historic and wonderful artifacts. It is must visit for anyone looking to trace Goa’s historic and cultural legacy. The museum is situated near the KTC bus stand in Panaji and is open Monday to Friday.

Se Cathedral

Se Cathedral Church Goa

This is the largest church in Goa and is dedicated to St. Catherine. The architecture of the church is in Portuguese-Gothic style while the interiors are done up in a Corinthian style.

Panjim Bridge

Panjim Bridge

The Panaji Bridge is quite a site that is also known as the Mandovi Bridge and connects Panjim city to Betim Village. One can enjoy fabulous views of the river or decide to take a ferry ride from Betim to Panjim.

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Hari Sharma is a Travel Writer with a keen interest in writing about incredible destinations. His write-ups are detailed and comprising of all relevant details that could accommodate. All write-ups are written after thorough research with a blend of creative writing that will make you travel along.