The main attractions of Goa are not only spacious beaches and endless sea, but also ancient Catholic churches, cozy cobblestone streets, powerful fortresses and waterfalls.
The Indian state of Goa is very popular with tourists. However, if the southern part is famous for its beautiful nature and beaches with golden sand, then North Goa combines many places to relax on the beach, and a large number of historical attractions. The capital of Goa is the city of Panaji, located in the northern part of the state.
In our article – sights of Old Goa with photos and descriptions and tips on what is best to see a tourist in Goa.
Attractions in North Goa
In the list you will find those attractions that are worth seeing in Goa in the first place.
Mangeshi Temple in Ponda
To see Goa, you should include the Temple of Magneshi – the main religious building of the state, located in the village of Priol Taulka. This is a Hindu temple named after one of the main deities of India – Sri Mangeshi.
From an architectural point of view, the building is an excellent example of a simple but elegant local development: snow-white walls, a large number of low buildings on the territory of the complex and the absence of pompous statues.
The main hall can accommodate more than 500 people. There are also several altars that are designed to worship one of the many Hindu gods. The walls of the room are decorated with tiles and bas-reliefs, and the floor is made of marble.
The following rules apply on the territory of the temple complex::
- It is forbidden to enter in shoes. Since the building has marble floors, it is recommended to wear several pairs of socks.
- You can not take photos of the interior of the temple. Of course, no one will punish you or expel you, but this will be extremely disrespectful to the believers on your part.
- Wreaths of orange flowers are sold at the entrance, and many tourists, mistaking them for jewelry, put them on themselves. It is strictly forbidden to do this, as this will greatly offend the faithful and servants of the temple. In fact, wreaths are an offering to the gods, and they should simply be placed at the foot of the altar.
In addition to the main temple, the complex has a swimming pool, a green area, and several buildings that tourists are not allowed to enter.
- Location: Dinanath Mangeshkar Rd, Mangeshi Village, Mardol, Goa 403401, North Goa, India.
- Opening hours: 6.00-22.00.
Fontainhas area of Panaji
The historic Fontenha district of Panaji is the most popular quarter of the city. Its history began more than 200 years ago, so tourists who visit North Goa, try to get to this place in order to:
- Walk along the narrow cobbled streets lined with colorful houses built by immigrants from Portugal.
- Visit the natural spring “Phoenix”, which today and centuries ago provided the town’s residents with fresh water.
- Relax in the shade of grapes or trees.
- Take a look at the Chapel of San Sebastian. You will see this building from afar, because it is actually the only building in the area that is painted white.
Location: North Panaji, North Goa.
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is the main Catholic church in the state. This landmark of North Goa was built in the 16th century for Portuguese sailors, who gradually arrived in new lands.
The White Church (as it is usually called by locals) stands out strongly from the rest of the buildings: it is built on a mountain, a long staircase with ornate patterns leads to it, and on the upper landing there is an interesting blue balcony. This is probably one of the most beautiful buildings in the area.
But the interior of the temple is much poorer and less beautiful than the exterior: wooden ceilings, benches and dozens of colorful ribbons and flowers on the walls. Services are still held in the church, but due to the local flavor, this building looks less and less like a Catholic church every year.
- Location: Church Square, Panaji 403001, North Goa.
- Opening hours: 07.00-12.00.
Shantadurga Temple
Shantadegra Temple is one of the most famous and visited by locals in Goa. This is a private temple complex, on the territory of which there are many different buildings: the main room, the Dipsthamba tower (this is a traditional building typical of all Hindu temples), as well as several small rooms that any tourist can enter absolutely free of charge.
Interestingly, this is actually the only temple in Goa that has a separate hall for weddings and wedding photo shoots.
The visiting rules are the same as in most temples in India:
- You can’t go in with your shoes on.
- It is forbidden to take photos.
- It is worth bringing gifts for the gods (fresh flowers that are sold at the entrance will do).
The property is located in Kavalem Village, and Panaji is 31 km away.
Tourists who have visited here say that this is one of the cleanest and most energetically powerful temples in India. Also, many recommend taking a guided tour with a local guide.
- Location: Kavalem Village, Ponda Taluka, Panaji, North Goa.
- Opening hours: 09.00-18.00.
Fort Aguada
What you can see on your own in North Goa is Fort Aguada, a powerful Portuguese fortress built by Europeans in the early 17th century. It is located on the peninsula, in the south-western part of the Bardez quarter.
Interestingly, the fort is built of Mangalore red stone, which is mined only in these places.
At the moment, different parts of Fort Aguada are used in different ways:
- south bastion converted into a hotel;
- The north Tower is the only prison in Goa where criminals are detained either for drug trafficking or for non-compliance with the visa regime.;
- the central part of the bastion is a museum;
- The north-west tower is one of the best viewing platforms in Goa, offering beautiful views of the sea and Panaji.
In order to see all the sights located on the territory of the fort, it will take at least 4 hours. It is better to arrive in the morning – in the daytime it is too hot here.
- Location: Candolim Sinquerim Beach, Fort Aguada, Sinquerim 403515 India.
- Opening hours: 08.30-17.30.
Reis Magos Fort
Fort Reis Magos or Fort of the Three Kings is the most beautiful sea fort in Goa, built in the 1490s. The fortress consists of several tiers, and on each of them you can find something interesting:
- gallery of works by local artist Mario Miranda;
- cozy balconies located along the perimeter of the fort;
- spiral staircases leading to the upper tiers;
- ancient cannons aimed at the opposite bank;
- green corners where grapes grow and there are wrought-iron benches for relaxing.
Tourists say that even if you are not well versed in history, you should still come here to wander around the fort structures and enjoy the beautiful view that opens from the top of the fortress.
- Location: Mandovi River | Reis Magos Road, Panaji 403114, India.
- Opening hours: 9.30-17.00.
- Cost: Rs 20.
St. Alex’s Catholic Church in Calangute (St. Alex Church)
St. Alexius Catholic Church in Calangute is another spectacular cathedral that stands out from the rest of the buildings. Located on the outskirts of the city, not far from the road, so you will definitely not be able to drive past it. The church can be attributed to those places that are worth seeing in North Goa.
Like other cathedrals built during the colonization period, it has high white walls decorated with bas-reliefs, as well as 3 domes. The interior decoration is not very rich: in the center there is an altar, on the sides – wooden figures of saints, the main part of the main hall is occupied by pews for parishioners. A functioning cemetery is located next to the attraction.
Tourists who have seen the church say that it is very cozy and well conveys the atmosphere of antiquity. However, many people do not advise you to go here purposefully.
- Location: CHOGM Road, Arpora, Calangute, India.
- Opening hours: 9.30-17.00.
Arpora Night Market (The Saturday Night Market)
Among the places that you should definitely see on your own in Goa is the night market in Arpora, also known as “Ingo Night Market” – the largest and most popular in the state. It is interesting that not only tourists come to the market – there are also a lot of local residents (especially hippies) here.
This popularity of the Night Market is explained by the fact that just in time for the opening of the day heat subsides, and people can safely move around the city. For local residents, the market is not just a place where you can buy the necessary goods, but also an opportunity to have fun listening to your favorite bands that perform at the concert venue, as well as chat with friends.
At the Night Market in Arpora, you should buy:
- souvenirs;
- clothing (such as yoga pants or an Indian tunic);
- spices;
- costume jewelry;
- fabrics;
- wool bags;
- postcards with photos of attractions in Goa;
- high-quality shoes (leather sandals are especially popular).
In addition to all the above, you can have a snack at the Night Market, visit a cafe or bar, or dance in the center of the bazaar.
Some useful tips:
- Be sure to remember the number of the entrance through which you got to the bazaar – there are several of them, and if you miss this moment, it will be very difficult to find your car.
- Sellers only accept cash.
- Try vegan dishes at the Night Market.
- Travelers note that prices for many products are too high, so you should not buy very expensive products.
Practical information:
- Location: Aguada-Siolim Rd, Xim Waddo, Arpora, Goa 403518, India.
- Opening hours: 16.00-00.00 (Saturday). Open from November to April.
Tropical Spice Plantation
The tropical spice plantation is a landmark of Goa (photo and description below), located 6 km from the city of Ponda. This place is unusual – here you can see how spices grow and look.
Tourists recommend buying an excursion, because if you go on your own, it will just be a walk through a beautiful place. And if with a guide, then you will be told about each plant and the technology of its preparation. On average, a guided walk around the plantation takes 30-40 minutes.
All guests arriving at the plantation are greeted in a very friendly way: they put a wreath of flowers on their heads, invite them to a buffet lunch and offer to buy a variety of spices at the local store.
If you pay extra, you can watch a local climb a tree to collect fruit from tall palm trees.
Be careful! Previously, it was possible to ride elephants on the plantation. Now the government of India has officially banned this entertainment.
- Location: Arla Bazar Keri, Ponda, India.
- Opening hours: 09.00-16.00.
- Cost: 400 rupees, children are free.
- Official website: www.tropicalspiceplantation.com
After visiting North Goa, be sure to check out the southern part of the state as well. Below you will find photos of South Goa attractions with names and detailed descriptions.
Attractions in South Goa
Come to South Goa in India should not only to relax, but also for the sights. Our selection includes recommendations from tourists (what to see and where to go in South Goa).
Dudhsagar Falls
Duhshagar Waterfall is the most popular natural attraction in South Goa. Its height is 300 meters, which is why this place is so loved by tourists.
At the foot of the waterfall is another attraction – a small lake with crystal clear water, where carp live. There are monkeys and even leopards in the rainforest, but people rarely see them.
Interestingly, it is better to visit the waterfall during the rainy season – at this time it is the most full-flowing.
Perhaps the only drawback is the road to the waterfall itself, because you can only get to this place with numerous transfers. The best way out in this case is to buy an excursion.
The best time to visit this South Goa attraction in India is early in the morning, while there are no tourists.
Location: Mandovi River, Mollem National Park 403410, South Goa.
Kotigao Nature Reserve
When making a list of things to see in Goa, pay attention to Kotigao – this is the second largest nature reserve in the state, located near Canacona. The total area is 86 sq. km. The following zones are worth seeing:
- beautiful Galzhibaga and Talpona rivers;
- 3 lakes;
- 2 viewing platforms that can be reached by climbing a rope ladder up a tree;
- an eco-zone with an information center, a children’s playground, and a cafe.
Also pay attention to the animal world. Monkeys, Indian bison, wild boar, porcupines and squirrels can be found on the reserve’s territory. The national park is also home to more than 200 species of birds, about 100 species of insects and 20 snakes. This is the place to see in South Goa.
The Kotigao Nature Reserve has several trails that are suitable for both beginners and experienced travelers. The shortest one is 500 m long and the longest one is 6 km long. It should be borne in mind that the reserve is located in the mountains, so it will be difficult to go. The route can also be completed by bicycle.
Locals recommend visiting the reserve between October and March – when the weather is dry and warm.
- Location: Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Canacona Taluka, Khotigao, South Goa.
- Opening hours: 07.00-17.30.
- Price: 20 rupees for an adult, 10 rupees for a child (+30 for a photo shoot).
- Official website: www.goatourism.gov.in
Margao Market
Margao is one of the main shopping centers of South Goa, which is often called the state’s commercial capital. The biggest active markets are located here: Bolshoy, Novy, Staryi and Rybny. All of them are aimed at local residents, so it is unlikely that you will find products here in beautiful packaging and perfectly clean counters.
Nevertheless, these places are worth seeing and buying:
- spices;
- traditional indian clothing;
- tea;
- fabrics;
- dishes;
- fruits.
Some useful tips:
- Do not be afraid to bargain, because the prices are initially very high, and the seller will definitely reduce the cost.
- It is advisable to take a local resident or taxi driver with you as a guide – you will be taken to the part of the market where they sell really high-quality goods, and not cheap Chinese fakes.
- Margao markets are very crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings.
- It is on the market that you can exchange currency profitably.
Practical information:
- Location: Gandhi Market Rd, Margao 403601, South Goa.
- Opening hours: 09.00-20.30.
The sights of Goa are very diverse, and every traveler will find interesting places in this state.
