Goa Tour PackagesGoa tour packages offer you unlimited fun and delights. One of the most beautiful states in India, Goa is globally famous for its enchanting beaches, exotic wildlife, heritage and cultural beauty, Goan festival etc. Due to its amiable climate and mesmerizing attraction, tourists from all over the world plan for Goa tour on their trip to India. It has lots of amazing tourism attraction among which the beaches are the most preferred and most visited by the tourists. There are 39 beaches in this state and all of them are unique and have their own charm to appeal tourists. Mostly the beaches are divided into north and south Goa beaches depending to their location. While south Goa beaches are known for their tranquility the north beaches are known for their hot happening and lively ambiance, night parties and fun freak. Beside these the colourful festivals, carnival, heritage and culture attractions, luxury ambiance, world class accommodation facilities and the warm hospitality truly have made Goa paradise for tourists, travelers and beach lovers. Holidaying in Goa is a lifetime experience that you will love to relish it for lifetime.
Goa Travel Tips One of the most sought after travel and tourism destinations in India, Goa is considered to be no less than Paradise. Where else will you find the perfect blend of exotic beaches, lip smacking cuisine, easy going people, rocking parties and ancient religious places! Goa is synonymous with vacations and holidays. This is the only state that guarantees to relax and rejuvenate you and at the same time set your adrenalin rushing with the amazing varieties it has to offer. Our related sections shall give you complete information on travel and tourism in Goa. Location: Western coast of the Indian sub continent Area: 3702 square kilometers Best Time to Visit: October to March Capital City: Panaji / Panjim Languages Spoken: Konkani is the official language. Other languages include English, Hindi, Marathi, Portuguese and other regional dialects. Major Religions: Hinduism, Christianity and Islam Main Attractions: Beaches, Churches, Old Ruins, Flea Markets and the Cuisine Though Goa is the smallest state of India in terms of geographical area, it commands almost a monopoly over the inflow of tourists in India. It is located on the western coast of India which is also known as the Konkan coast. It is surrounded by the state of Maharashtra on the north, Karnataka on the east and south and the Arabian Sea on its west. The capital city of Goa is known as Panaji or Panjim and the largest city in Goa is Vasco-da-Gama. Goa is truly the hub of tourism in India and provides international standards of holidaying. To promote tourism and increase the inflow of tourists, the state has maintained world class beaches and other tourist attractions. On one hand you will find casinos at par with those at Las Vegas and on the other hand you will find ancient churches that provide the perfect picture of the deep religious faiths of the Goans. You can find your own areas of interest in Goa since it provides a plethora of choices. You can explore the wildlife sanctuaries if you are nature lover or you can try water sports at the beaches or just relax with a massage at the beach resorts. Goa will truly excite the traveler in you and will leave you mesmerized with incidents that cannot be experienced anywhere else. Travel to Goa to experience this magic! |
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Best Time To Visit GoaGoa is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing, rejuvenating and tension free holiday. You can visit this lovely place anytime of the year, though you may want to avoid the monsoons. It rains quite heavily over here thus making transportation a bit cumbersome. Else, the best time of the year that can be called the peak season for Goa travel is from October to March. The place is blessed with maritime climate which makes almost the entire year the ideal time to visit Goa!
Right after the monsoons the weather becomes even more pleasant, the skies clear up and the seas become placid and calm. Every monument and every building looks like it has been washed spick and span. There is not a speck of dust on trees and they look lush green. The summers here are a bit harsh with maximum temperature going upto 35o Celsius. Winters can hardly be called winters as the minimum temperature does not drop below 18o Celsius. The weather is just perfect to enjoy your vacation thoroughly. During monsoons, Goa receives an average annual rainfall of 2500 - 3500 mm. Though one can visit Goa during monsoons, the weather becomes humid and transportation becomes cumbersome. You wouldn't want to be stranded at the airport praying that a taxi comes and takes you safely to your hotel! It is not advisable to visit the beaches during monsoons as the sand becomes very sloshed and the sea turns a bit violent. Thus visit Goa right after the monsoons from October - March and experience Goa in its best form. How to Reach Goa ?Goa is situated on the south west coast of India and its location is very favorable for people to reach here by air, railways, roadways and also the sea. Even though Goa is India's smallest state, it has its own airport and railway station that are no less than the ones that are located in metros. Traveling to Goa is not at all tedious as you have interstate as well as local transport. Reaching Goa is quite easy and getting to this place should not bother you at all. In case you still have doubts regarding how to reach Goa, you can always check out the information given in the following lines.
By Air One reach Goa very easily as it is linked via flights to all major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Trivandrum, Pune, etc. as well as some international destinations in UK and Gulf countries. The Dabolim Airport located near the town of Vasco Da Gama is Goa's exclusive airport and can be reached from any place in Goa by hiring local transport. By Rail Goa has a well planned system of railways and commendable railway tracks. India's all important and major metro cities are connected to Goa through railways. The Konkan railway line has considerably reduced the traveling time to Goa and connects Goa to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Trivandrum, etc. By Roads Goa has a well planned road system that helps people reach Goa from nearby states. One can reach Goa via roads from places like Bangalore, Pune, and Mumbai. Goa also has three national highways that pass through which include NH - 4A, NH -17 and NH -17A. One can hire interstate buses that are run by Government owned tourist corporations or private cabs from nearby places to reach Goa. By Sea Goa is situated on the west coast of India and has the vast sea flanking its border. You can choose from the various cruises that are available from Mumbai and take tourists to Goa. During the monsoons however, the service is withdrawn temporarily due to the erratic behavior of the sea. |
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Goa WeatherGoa has a very pleasant climate and it remains more or less the same throughout the year. This temperate climatic condition is one of the key factors that attract tourists in hordes to Goa. Due to the favorable location in the western coast, Goa experiences maritime climate. The weather of Goa is very pleasant and makes it ideal for tourists visiting here to explore the place without worrying much about sudden change in temperatures. The weather & climate of Goa is such that there is not much of a difference in the diurnal range of temperature as well.
Summers Summers can be a bit harsh with maximum temperatures soaring to almost 40o Celsius at times. The afternoons are especially hot and the people of Goa take an afternoon break known as "Siesta" which lasts from 1 - 4pm. During this time, the people prefer sitting within their homes and even the shops close down before opening up again after 4. The summer months are from April to June. Monsoons The monsoons in Goa start around late June or by July. It lasts till September and the weather becomes very pleasant after that. The monsoons in Goa can be pretty heavy with continuous rainfalls and very little sunshine. The average annual rainfall received by Goa during monsoons is around 325 centimeters. Winters After the monsoons comes the perfect weather that is considered the best time to visit Goa. From October to March the weather remains just perfect with the right amount of sun, chillness in the evenings and pleasant breeze blowing all day long. The minimum temperature can come down to almost 5o Celsius, but it is quite rare. Eating Out In GoaGoa has a varied platter to offer to its visitors and a delicious one at that! Eating out in Goa should not be a problem because Goa has many restaurants and eateries that are situated at all strategic locations. Be it beaches, cities, towns or even villages; you won't be left wondering as to where to eat in Goa. Goa has a variety of restaurants that offer multi cuisine platter also. Apart from that, you will come across many fast food joints like Domino's, Barista, Caffe Coffe Day in various towns and cities of Goa. Since Goa has been ruled by different empires, the cuisine is a mix of the best of all of them!
But in Goa, it is best to try the local food that is available in those shacks and restaurants. The variety is so wide that you couldn't possibly decide what to eat in Goa! Select from the delectable sea food or the lip smacking non vegetarian cuisines that Goa has to offer. Vegetarians need not fret as Goa has plenty to offer to you too. Rice is the staple food crop of Goa and along with that you can have a preparation of lentils, meat, sea food, etc. An exotic concoction of spices is used to prepare the meat, which tastes heavenly after being prepared in the traditional Goan style. Goa is famous for desserts and also boasts of having some of the best quality of juicy fruits like custard apples, pineapples, etc. In Goa, mangoes are very popular and among the sweetest found here. Along with this, you can always try the innovative juices and mocktails that are prepared by people. Also, do not forget to try the "Feni", Goa's popular alcoholic drink. It is advisable to drink in moderation as Feni is quite strong and can make you loose your senses in no time. Here's wishing you happy eating! |
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Goa ShoppingGoa can very easily be tagged as a shopper's paradise. Your visit to Goa is not complete unless you take back a souvenir. The best places to hunt for that perfect souvenir are the lively shopping places of Goa. Goa is such a colorful state that you won't be left thinking as to what to buy in Goa. Shopping in Goa should be one of your topmost priorities while touring and sightseeing. In case you are thinking where to shop in Goa, you can easily relax. Goa is full of local markets and beach shacks that sell everything and anything under the sun.
One item that you must buy is the famous cashew nuts that are sold here in small packets. You can find a whole variety of these nuts here like the salted ones, the spicy ones, or simply the plain ones. Apart from cashew nuts, you can find a variety of exotic Indian spices and dried fish. Their aroma is enough to attract even the staunchest of dieters! Goa is famous for small knick knacks like trinkets, ear rings, bracelets, etc. that are easily available in bulk in local markets as well as shacks on beaches. Items of local handicrafts like shell work, bamboo work, brassware, terracotta, crochet, carved furniture, etc. are available aplenty and are a good choice for a souvenir. Some of the best places for shopping in Goa are at Mapusa and Anjuna. The weekly markets at Mapusa and Anjuna are sure to burn a hole in your pocket. You can find many things that make a perfect souvenir and something that you can take back home for your family and friends. The Anjuna weekly market is on Wednesday every week and that at Mapusa is on Fridays. Check out our list of favorite picks as a souvenir from these markets:
Goa NightlifeWhat makes Goa one of the hottest tourist destinations in India is its vibrant nightlife. A state that believes in partying for almost every occasion, the nightlife of Goa is sure to remain etched in your memory for a long time to come. The nightlife of Goa is an essential part of an average Goan's life. Though it is not one of the metros, the Goan night life is much better than the nightlife of any other big metro city of India. The nightlife here was started by the hippies who came here during the 70's. Since then, the nightlife in Goa has steadily increased and has gained much fame now.
Since alcohol is easily available in Goa, there is no dearth of fun and enjoyment here during late hours. Goa is full of small restaurants that have bars too. So, almost every eatery will have a bar that serves chilled beer and allows you to relax in peace. The most popular zones for enjoying the nightlife of Goa are the beaches. Goans believe in partying hard and one can spot many trance parties in famous beaches where people just enjoy themselves and forget the tensions of life. Though Goa is a liberal state, there are strict laws against drunken driving, taking drugs, etc. In case you are planning to drink, eat and dance, chances are you will end up doing it at the same place. The key to enjoy Goan nightlife is not to plan. Let everything unfold before you simultaneously. The idea of encountering the unexpected is what makes the nightlife of Goa even more exciting. Of course, the beaches are full of people jiving away to trance music and enjoying their drinks. But that unknown factor that attracts so many revelers to the Goan nightlife is what makes the parties so happening. You have to be there to feel the magic take over you. |
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Goa CruisesGoa is famous for its river and sea cruises. Almost everyone who has been to Goa has had a lovely experience in a luxury cruise. Cruises in Goa have their own charm. They take you into a magical world where you just float in a steady pace over miles of unending ocean. The setting sun in the horizon, the racing dolphins along with your cruise liner and the comfortable amenities on the cruise just make this experience unforgettable for a lifetime. There are many options you can choose from while going on a cruise that will suit your requirements, time limits and budget. To get an idea, go through the information given below about Goa cruises.
River Cruises One can also go on a cruise on the River Mandovi in Goa. The cruise is managed by Goa Tourism Development Corporation. The river is flanked by lush green surroundings on both sides and if you are a keen observer, you can spot crocodiles and other form wildlife on the banks. River cruises include sun set cruise, sun down cruise, full moon night cruise, etc. Dolphin Fantasy Cruise The Dolphin Fantasy cruise takes you close to the playful creatures of the oceans, the Dolphins. They happily swim along your liner and fascinate you with their playful antics. This cruise covers Raj Bhavan, Aguada Fort and Reis Magos and operates every Monday. Sun Set Cruise The sun set cruise is a one hour trip on the river during the time the sun is to set. The setting sun paints the sky in a shade of bright orange and the water looks as though it is golden yellow in color. The cruise is filled with fun activities like folk dances, songs and other entertainers like jugglers, magicians, etc. Full Moon Cruise This is a special cruise that offers cruising on the river during a full moon night. The cool and soothing moonlight paints everything in a shade of silver and all you can hear in the serene surroundings is the splish-splash of water against the cruise liner. Dinner is served on board on extra payment. Sea Cruise The Sea cruise starts from the coast of Mumbai and goes straight to Goa or goes to Kochi in Kerala and then comes back to Goa. The sea cruise liners have all the latest amenities and facilities on board so you don't have to rush to the land in case of an emergency. One of the most famous cruise liners is the Super Star Libra which is no less than a dream sailing on the sea. Everything from budget to luxurious suites and rooms, food, entertainment, karaoke, disco and a bar is there on the liner. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Goa as soon as possible! Goa Money ExchangeWhile in Goa, money exchange must be one of your primary concerns. You need not worry and rack your brains over currency exchange in Goa. There are plenty of money exchangers here and most hotels also offer this service to tourists who come from outside India. Just to make sure that you travel safe while in Goa, convert your money into Traveler's Cheques. They are easy to use and can be recovered in case of a theft. The standard Indian Rupee is also used in Goa as all over India. Notes are in the denominations of Rs. 1000, Rs. 500, Rs.100, Rs.50, Rs.10 and Rs. 5. You can also find coins in the denomination of Rs.5, Rs.2 and Re.1.
The airport in Goa has facilities for exchanging currency and you can get your money converted there itself. There are many reliable banks in Goa that provide the facility of currency exchange. Credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, etc. are accepted by most hotels and restaurants and one can also withdraw money against these cards. Always exchange your money in a reputed and reliable money exchange bureau or bank. Do not hesitate to inform the Police and your embassy in case of a theft. Given below is a list of banks where you can avail the facility of currency exchange.
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Goa CasinosGoa is well known for its lively nightlife and those rave parties that go on till wee hours of the night. Goa has a plethora of nightclubs, discos and casinos that offer the ultimate Goan experience. If you are the kind of person who loves to gamble along with chilled drinks and deafening music playing in the background, then the casinos of Goa are the perfect place for you. Goa has some of the most happening casinos and they are the only ones located in India. A typical casino of Goa has chilled drinks, music, blinding lights and lots of entertaining games. One can try their hand at games like American Roulette, Black Jack, Rummy, Stud Poker, Baccarat, Pontoon and Flash.
The casino culture in Goa is a recent development and not many are acquainted with it. Though they are crowded as they attract lot of tourists, the locals usually don't visit the casinos. They have been introduced here primarily because foreigners like to spend time at the casinos and enjoy the nightlife of Goa. Goa also has an offshore casino onboard a luxury liner. It is a must visit if you like to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Goa while making some quick bucks. A list of well known casinos of Goa is given here.
Goa Entertainment
Goa and fun go hand in hand. When you come to Goa, chances are that you may not find enough time to actually enjoy to the hilt. There are so many exciting and amusing activities for entertainment in Goa that one tends to get confused as to which one to try out and which one to leave. People essentially come to Goa with just one priority in mind - How to enjoy in Goa. After all, that is what Goa is all about. It is a haven for relaxing, enjoying and experiencing the finer aspects that life has to offer.
Goa offers a variety of fun things to do to its visitors. Entertainment in Goa is unlimited and one can choose from a number of different types of entertaining activities. You can choose the activities according to your own taste. If you are a laid back kind of a person who just wants to unwind, head for the beaches where you can spend the entire day strolling on the shore, collecting shells, exploring local shacks, etc. If you like adventure, you can try your hand at the various water sports that are much in vogue in Goa. In case you connect with nature and like to explore, head for the various wildlife sanctuaries and ruined forts that Goa flourishes in. Check out this compilation of things to do for entertainment in Goa and know something about how to enjoy there. Goa is famous for its beaches and one of the best things you can do in Goa is to enjoy the beauty of the beaches. Stroll on the soft sands, let the water lap at your feet, build sand castles, buy knick-knacks and small souvenirs at the local shacks, etc. Goa has many famous sanctuaries like Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, etc. You can always go to these sanctuaries and explore the natural landscape and wildlife there. If it is glitter and glamour that you like, you can always go to the various casinos, pubs, rest-o-bars, etc. that Goa is famous for. These places are especially designed as per the tastes of tourists who are usually the ones to come here and enjoy. Goa is famous for its trance parties and if you happen to locate one, make sure you take part in it. They are full of fun and indulge in unadulterated pleasure. Goa is famous for its shopping places and they are the best places to buy ethnic Goan wear and those little curios that always seem to fascinate you. At the same time, you can go to those street side shacks that offer warm services and taste delicious Goan cuisine. |
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Goa HolidaysIndia is the land of many colorful festivals which means there are many public holidays in Goa as well. Keep it in mind that you plan your trip and sightseeing on dates that do not fall on public holidays. This is because most of the tourist attractions are closed during the public holidays in Goa. So are local transport and other facilities. Goa celebrates all festivals that are common in India and also celebrates those festivals which are exclusive to Goa. To help you plan your trip without any confusions and hassles, we provide you with a list of all major holidays in Goa.
This shall help you plan your trip accordingly and you may also attend the celebration of couple of festivals yourself if you have the time. Some dates have already been mentioned as they are fixed, but some festivals are celebrated according to the Hindu lunar calendar so the dates keep changing every year. You may consult the Hindu calendar for further updates on the dates when they are celebrated. Date Occasion / Festival J anuary 1st New Year's Day January 26th Republic Day of India (National Holiday) February Mardi Gras Carnival March Maha Shiva Ratri March Holi March Festival of Shigmo April Baisakhi April Good Friday May Eid-ul-Milad May Buddha Purnima June Festival of St. John August (Fourth Saturday) Bonderam Festival August Ganesha Chaturthi August 15th India's Independence Day (National Holiday) October 2nd Gandhi Jayanti (National Holiday) October / November Dusshera October / November Diwali / Deepawali November 19th Guru Nanak Dev's Birthday December 25th Christmas / X-Mas Goa Health Precautions It has been rightly said "Precaution is the best cure". Taking care of your health when you are on a vacation is very important. No one wants to come to a new place and call in sick, missing out on those enjoyable trips and delicious food. Though there are no chances of serious illness or epidemics in Goa, health precautions must be taken by everyone; right from the six year old to the sixty year old! Some basic health and safety tips for Goa travelers are given below. Check it out as they may come handy in case of an emergency and at the same time acquaint you how to take care of yourself here.
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