Top 10 prime-time attractions of Goa

Goa is a wanderlust for people who need to escape the hustle and bustle of life and just yearn for an adrenaline-filled adventure. There is just something about this place that shouts the word “Elysium.” To feel this energy, you must know the best spots in town, and that’s where we come in.

Goa is not just a location; it’s an emotion that transcends boundaries and strikes a chord with people from different walks of life. From its golden sands and stunning coastline to its tranquil beaches spiced with a pinch of cultural richness, Goa is a paradise for anyone who desires to get rid of their trite schedules and party like it’s the end of the year.

It’s a place where memories can be cherished for years. Here you can indulge in endless watersports and enjoy beach parties which give you a chance to meet different people and learn new experiences, or you can simply take a stroll down the local market and buy souvenirs for your friends and family.

This state has a lot to offer, but few places are so iconic that not visiting them would be considered an insult to the beauty of Goa. So, with no further ado, here are some of the most iconic attractions of Goa.

Places to scout in Goa

Here are ten quintessential places that represent the entire state of Goa. These places are so scenic and cinematic that Book My Bharat has made it their agenda to make you visit all these locations and come home with a smile on your face.

An array of famous beaches

You won’t believe this, but there are more than 35 beaches spread all across the beautiful landscape of Goa. These beaches are extremely picturesque in nature and differ from one another in their unique way.  They have the best water sports facilities and the most energetic parties where you can dance and lose yourself in the beat of every song that the DJ spins. When the party simmers, and everything is quiet, you can simply stroll down the beach and reflect on the amazing memories you just made. 

Tanshikar’s Working Spice Farm

South India, in its entirety, is defined by having a plentitude of spices that range from black pepper and cardamon to clove and turmeric. In the spice scene of South India, there is one place that sets itself apart from others – Tanshikar’s Working Spice Farm & Ecological Rest House. This agritourism attraction grows around seven different spices using cutting-edge farming practices. The owner often leads the tour of this farm; on your voyage down this spice route, you get a deep understanding of how these crops are cultivated, grown, and finally made ready for consumption.

Basilica de Bom Jesus

Everyone knows that Goa is highly revered for being known as the party capital of India, and a lot of tourists visit this state for its adrenaline-filled nightlife, but never forget that this spot is defined by its cultural richness. Basilica de Bom Jesus is one of the most sacred sites in Goa for pilgrimage. This site dates back to the 16th century and contains the remains of St. Francis Xavier. The basilica has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. You can tour the church on your own, or if you desire an in-depth perspective, consider hiring a tour guide. Inside the church, you can see the body of the resident saint, which once used to be covered in precious stones. 

Dudhsagar Falls

Not only beaches, but Goa is also home to one of the tallest four-tiered waterfalls in India – Dudhsagar Falls. It is situated at a height of 310ms above sea level; this place is a tourist hub for travelers who take trips around Goa and Karnataka. Dudhsagar literally means “Sea of Milk,” which perfectly describes the cascading waterfalls resembling a milky stream. The lush green surroundings and the gushing sound of the falls make for a mesmerizing experience. It’s an ideal place for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers. 

Anjuna Market

Goa is soaked with an abundance of cultural heritage, and because of this, the Goan markets are filled with a lot of cultural artifacts. This state has a plethora of markets where you can buy artifacts, but the Anjuna market takes the cake. You can buy anything from this market, whether it is ornate textiles, woven garments, hammocks, or even sassy tote bags and catchy fridge magnets – they are the real deal. You can also sightsee around the flea market, filled with a vibrant assortment of merchandise in a kaleidoscope of hues, which greet you as you navigate through the bustling crowd of vendors haggling fiercely. 

Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

In the historic city of Panaji lies one of the most pristine and ornate churches of Goa – the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. This church dates back to the 17th century, designed according to the archeological style of the Portuguese era; this church is a sight to see. The inside of the church is decorated in a very bright and colorful manner; tourists can see the sophisticated and elegant altar, which is dedicated to Mary, mother of Jesus, along with gilded pillars and intricate wall carvings.

Braganza House

If you want to see how houses used to look in the 17th century, take a glance at the Braganza House, a historical mansion that facets the village square in Chandor. The east wing is the humble abode of the members of the Pereira-Braganza family. It has a massive ballroom with an awe-inspiring marble floor that contains the fingernails of St. Francis Xavier’s. The west wing preserves the splendor of the Braganza House; the entire space resembles a museum that features a huge library with around 5000 leather-backed books from the private collection of journalist Luis de Menezes Braganza.

Mahadev Temple

Dating back to the 12th century, Mahadev temple is located 12 km north of Molem. Mahadev temple is a timeless marvel, a sacred place where divinity meets beauty. It stands tall as a testimony to the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient Indian architecture. With its intricate carvings, majestic pillars, and peaceful aura, the temple is a sanctuary for spiritual seekers and devotees. Its sanctity is amplified by the sound of the temple bells and the aroma of incense that fills the air. Mahadev temple is not just a place of worship but also a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of India.

Mangeshi Temple

Mangeshi Temple, located in the picturesque state of Goa, symbolizes devotion and spirituality. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is renowned for its intricate architecture and rich history. With its towering spire and beautifully carved pillars, the temple is a visual delight for visitors. The sanctum sanctorum, where the idol of Lord Shiva is kept, is adorned with intricate carvings and exquisite paintings that showcase the skill of Indian artisans. Mangeshi Temple is not just a place of worship but also a center of cultural and social activities. The temple hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, attracting devotees and tourists alike. 

Fontainhas

This site which is now highly revered as a UNESCO-recognized Heritage zone, used to be the headquarters of the Portuguese government in Goa. This site features an array of colonial houses decked with pastel and fluorescent semblance. To preserve the cultural integrity of the location, the houses are painted every year, ensuring that they look vibrant for the millions of tourists who visit this site every year. You can explore the destination alone or get a tour guide if you want to sink your teeth in.