Goa Things To Do – Attractions & Must See

Goa Things To Do

Goa is located on India’s western coast next to the Arabian sea. When visiting Goa things to do are plentiful with natural beauty, historical sites, and local businesses to visit.

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What to Do in Goa

Dudhsagar Waterfalls meaning ‘sea of milk’ the Dudhsagar Waterfalls have an elevation of 2,000 feet and sit on Goa’s eastern border next to Karnataka. The falls are easy to access via Jeep, hiking, or rail. Many visitors enter through the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and walk 15 minutes to the falls.

Panjim City is the capital of Goa and a place you have to see if you’re on vacation there. Located on the Mandovi River Panjim City is a well maintained medium sized city that is home to beaches, restaurants, gardens, and busy local markets. With a population of roughly 40,000 people, Panjim is large enough to be worth a visit but small enough to not get lost in.

Basilica of Bom Jesus located in Old Goa, the Basilica of Bom (Good) Jesus is a World Heritage Site that sees thousands of visitors every year. The basilica was built in 1594 using European architecture styles such as Baroque. What truly draws guests, however, is that the basilica is the resting place of St. Francis Xavier who was canonized as a saint in 1622.

Palolem Beach is a pristine beach located in south Goa. Crescent shaped and roughly a mile long the beach is dotted with small shacks along the shore where tourist stay. The currents are mild and the ocean floor slopes down gradually making this a relatively safe place to swim. Aside from tourists, the beach is also popular with local fishermen.

Anjuna Flea Market is a popular stop if you’re looking to do some shopping. Open on Wednesdays the Anjuna Flea Market is bright, colorful, very busy, and offering a wide selection of things to buy. Wares for sale include species, ornaments, trinkets, clothing, and fresh food. In addition to shopping, you can also enjoy food and music at the local market bar. The flea market is open during the tourist season of October through April.    

Old Goa dates back centuries to the time of Portuguese rule and was the old capital several centuries ago. Once a large population center Old Goa saw its citizens relocated from the 1600s onward due to the outbreak of diseases. What remains is a collection of centuries-old monasteries, churches, and cathedrals. Named a World Heritage Status by UNESCO, Old Goa sees thousands of tourist and religious pilgrims every year.

Boat Trips being located on the Arabian Sea, Goa also offers water sports and boat trips. Activities include cruises, kayaking, sailing, and ocean tours featuring activities such as dolphin watching.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Goa Nightlife – Clubs, Bars & Nightlife Tips
• Goa Transportation – Taxi, Train, Bus & Airport Tips
• Goa Shopping – Shops, Stores, Best Buys & Inside Tips

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Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Goa things to do.