EXPLORING THE NORTH GOA

write popular October 29, 2022

0 11 4 minutes read

INTRODUCTION

North Goa city tour welcomes you to a picturesque land of natural beauty sparkling with sea, sand, and sunshine. However, if you think this region is only about golden beaches and turquoise water, think again! The area is dotted with magnificent forts, ancient temples, gorgeous churches, electrifying party hotspots, famous shacks, buzzing flea markets, lavish casinos, and many other attractions. All you have to do is leave your North Goa hotels and explore this kaleidoscopic destination.

PLACES TO EXPLORE IN NORTH GOA

PANJIM CITY

In addition to being the state capital, Panaji serves as the administrative center of the North Goa district. The city is built on the banks of the Mandovi River, and its streets are cobblestone-paved. The streets are lined with brightly colored homes and structures from the Portuguese colonial era. Panjim has many attractions, including historic facilities, Latin Quarters, beaches, and plenty of street art, which can all be explored in a single day.

OLD GOA

While in the Panaji area, take a day trip to Old Goa from Panjim. The city of Old Goa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the well-known Old Goa church and one of the many lesser-known Old Goa attractions, such as the Se Cathedral, the St. Cajetan church, the St. Augustine tower, and many others. Plan at least a half-day visit to fully appreciate all of Old Goa’s attractions. You can also eat lunch at a local riverfront restaurant called Gene Garden, which is close to the Ribandar ferry port. You can also take a boat from here to the scenic and laid-back island of Divar.

FONTAINHAS

Panjim’s eye-catching value has contributed to the neighborhood’s meteoric rise in popularity in recent years. It is a bustling neighborhood with narrow alleyways lined with some of Goa’s most beautiful and colorful buildings. And serves as a genuine living representation of the Portuguese architectural influence on the state’s architecture. Throughout the day, many young photographers will be taking photographs here. If you’re looking for the perfect photo for your social media, this is the place.

MARKETS

ANJUNA FLEA MARKET

This Anjuna Beach flea market comes to life every Wednesday and is widely regarded as one of the best markets in Goa. Nepalese and Tibetan handicrafts, souvenirs, knickknacks, jewelry, beachwear, wall hangings, and other items are available at this seaside market. In addition, there are many food vendors, body piercing shops, live music, and other forms of entertainment in the market and surrounding area. Remember that the market is only open from October to May, so plan your trip accordingly.

ARPORA SATURDAY NIGHT MARKET

Attending the colorful Saturday night market in Arpora is one of the most exciting activities available to tourists in North Goa. The crowded area is a shopper’s paradise because a diverse range of goods is available, from regional handicrafts to designer clothing. The presence of numerous food vendors serving delectable specialties adds to the location’s allure.

MAPUSA MARKET

Mapusa Market has long been and continues to be one of Goa’s most important commercial and retail districts. On Fridays, the location transforms into a bustling marketplace where customers can immerse themselves in the authentic allure of shopping in a Goan bazaar. You can buy everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to fashionable accessories and garments at this location. Feel free to use your negotiating skills to get the best deal possible.

BEACHES

SINQUERIM BEACH

Sinquerim Beach welcomes you to stroll along its picturesque sandy beach. You can engage in various exciting water-based sports and activities, including swimming, or you can simply go for a swim. Most of the time, music festivals dominate the nightlife on this beach. There are numerous hotels and other types of resorts available. Furthermore, there are numerous excellent restaurants in the surrounding area known for their delectable food and beverages. Getting to Sinquerim is simple, thanks to the abundance of taxis, motorcycles, and buses.

MORJIM BEACH

Morjim Beach is ideal for people who prefer to be alone. This beach, located north of the Chapora River, is a stunning example of a sandy beachfront and one of Goa’s beaches with the fewest visitors per day. Because it is a nesting habitat for Olive Ridley turtles, this beach is the show’s star. Morjim Beach’s unique ecology encourages the development and hatching of this type of turtle, making it an ideal habitat for them. As a result, Morjim Beach has gained a new moniker: Turtle Beach. The 3-kilometer beach is perfect for long walks while admiring the breathtaking sunset views.

ARAMBOL BEACH

Arambol Beach embodies the ideal balance of scenic beauty and tranquillity. This beach is well known for its unique bohemian atmosphere. This rocky and sandy beach is considered one of Goa’s less crowded beaches. It is, therefore, ideal for spending romantic moments and engaging in exciting water-based sports. You can even go shopping for trinkets and costume jewelry in the small shops that line the beach, or you can have a drink or two at one of the beach shacks.

MORE PLACES TO EXPLORE

There are many more places to visit and explore in North Goa like

FORT AGUADA, GOA STATE MUSEUM, THE CHURCH OF MAE DE DEUS, BASILICA OF BOM JESUS, VAGATOR BEACH, VAGATOR HILLTOP, SWEET WATER LAKE, CURLIES BEACH SHACK, CHAPORA FORT, MIRAMAR BEACH, and many more.