Beaches of Goa

The entire coast of Goa is one large beach with a length of 100 km. The best of this continuous mile-long strip of white sand for holidays in Goa are the beaches of Saint-Ines and Miramar in the Panaji area, the complex in Magdiora Beach, the resort villages of Aguada, Anjuna, Vagator, Palolem, Colva, Arambol and Calangute (known as "Mecca of hippies "), As well as Baga Beach, Candolim and Shiridao, interspersed with picturesque bays and rocks. However, despite the fact that Goa is a succession of beaches, rest in Goa is by no means limited to lying under the sun. But more on that later.

Goa has always attracted tourists who would like to relax on the seashore and soak up the sun. In the 1960s. Goa became the most visited place in India: the coast was flooded with hippies. Along with them came a carefree lifestyle. But today everything changed - instead of hippies in Goa began to come more "serious" people who want to see the magnificent beaches and get acquainted with the unique culture of this state. To date, Goa is one of the world's best resorts with excellent hotel services, restaurants and casinos, allowing you to enjoy a wonderful holiday in Goa.

The coast of Goa is conditionally divided into two parts - northern and southern. In South Goa, there are expensive (by Indian standards) hostels and hotels that are popular among wealthy Indians and middle class from Europe, these places are good for a quiet comfortable stay in Goa. The northern part of Goa is much more diverse and interesting. It is here on a small stretch of the coast that all the most interesting phenomena are concentrated, which created world fame for this wonderful place and created a great legend called "Goa". This is a place for young people and amateurs of entertainment. Due to such a variety of holidays in Goa attracts tourists from all over the world.

Churches in Goa

BASAILICA OF THE BOM JESUS: In the Basilica of the Bom , dedicated to the cult of child Jesus, there are the remains of Francisco de Javier, patron of Goa and one of the seven founders of the Jesuit Order. The church was erected in the center of Goa, a former Portuguese colonial capital, between 1594 and 1605, thanks to the Florentine sculptor Giovanni Battista Foggini, in local red stone. Located in old goa.

The remains of the saint are kept in a silver casket located inside a three-level marble tomb, to the right of the altar. Once every ten years you can witness the exhibition of the body of the Saint, apart from an arm that is exposed in Rome, always in the Basilica considered World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and one of the oldest in India, with golden altars and inlaid white marble floors with precious stones.

CHURCH OF OUR LADY THE IMMACULATE: After the Basilica of Bom Jesus , another important place of worship, in Panaji , capital of the state of Goa , is the unique white Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception , built by the Portuguese in 1541 as a chapel, later, in the 17th century replaced by the current church. It rises in the heart of the capital, surrounded by a rice paddy and coconut orchards.

When Panaji was only a small village, the Portuguese ships, coming from Lisbon, docked here, the first port of call, and the sailors went to the Church of the Immaculate to thank the Madonna of the trip that was successful; from there, they continued to Goa Velha , Old Goa, capital of the small Indian state until 1843.

In Baroque style, the Church of Our Lady has interiors that are not excessively extravagant but very colorful. The main altar is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the other two, decorated and plated with gold, are dedicated, the one on the left to Jesus Crucified, the altar on the right, to Our Lady of the Rosary; the two altars are flanked by two marble statues, San Pietro and San Paolo.

In the bell tower, ropes reach the gigantic bell, recovered from the ruins of the Augustinian monastery of Old Goa.

ST. CATHERINES'S CATHEDRAL: Old Goa is one of the most popular tourist routes. There are many cathedrals and churches, which are filled every day by travelers. The center of religious parties is St. Catherine's Cathedral. This is the largest Christian building in Asia. Here a complete set of important elements: bells, altar, and font. Catholics really like the design of the cathedral, its style.

In one of the chapels of the cathedral, according to legend, a stunning shrine is kept - a "growing cross". In the 17th century, one shepherd decided to cut a wooden crucifix for himself. And while he was working as a sword, Jesus Christ himself appeared to him. What they said, history is silent. But after this incident, Christians placed the cross in the chapel. And - about a miracle! - the cross began to grow! In size, it is comparable to the cross in Calvary. They say that it still stretches upward, like a real accelerator.

The cathedral is open every day from 07:30 to 18:00.

Cities of Goa

OLD GOA- founded in the 15th century by the Sultan of Bijapur, was an important port and the center of trade for the Sultanate. From the beginning of the 16th century to the 18th century - the main city of the Portuguese colony of Goa, "Lisbon of the East". Because of the outbreak of the plague, the city was abandoned, since that time it is called Old Goa ("Velha Goa" in Portuguese). The capital of Goa was Panaji.

PANAJI - its history began in the 11th century in the era of the Kadamba dynasty, then the city was called Pahajani Khali. Panaji became the main residence of the Portuguese viceroy on December 1, 1759, and the official capital in March 1843.

PONDA - Ponda is a city surrounded by hills on all sides, 28 km southeast of Panaji. In Pond is the oldest preserved mosque in the territory of Goa - Safa Masjid (1560). The mosque is decorated with a magnificent "Maharab" pattern. Once this mosque was an exact copy of the mosque in Bijapur. With the Portuguese, the mosque was destroyed, and to this day only its ruins have been preserved.

In the vicinity of Ponda are 10 Hindu temples built in the 17-18 centuries. To the ancient deities of these temples, pilgrims from all over Maharashtra and Karnataka are bowing. Baroque interiors and multi-tier signal towers of temple complexes distinguish them among other Hindu temples of south-western India. On the way from Panaji to Pondu between Mardol and Priol are the temples of Shantadurga (1550) and Shri Megeshi (which was the main temple of Shiva in Goa in the 18th century, but it contains many scenes from the Indian epic Ramayana). The main attraction of the Mahalakshmi temple are 18 wooden sculptures of the god Vishnu, however the temple itself is dedicated to Shakti, or to various manifestations of the goddess Durga. The main hypostasis of Durga is Mahalakshmi, whose head is crowned by shivalingas.

MAPUSA-  Mappsa is a small town in North Goa, the administrative center of the province of Bardez, half an hour's drive from the coast. Known for its picturesque and lively market on Fridays. In Mapusa you can visit the sanctuary of Hanuman, the chapel of St. Anthony and the Jain temple of Maruti. The Church of St. Jerome (1594) in Mapus was built on the site of a ruined ancient temple. The main altar of the church is dedicated to Our Lady of Miraculous, whose statue, with Jesus the baby in her arms, is clothed in golden garments and is set over a richly decorated altar carving. The ceiling of the church is decorated with an intricate pattern of wooden panels. Our Lady of the Miraculous is deeply revered by both Hindus and Christians. Dedicated to her holiday is celebrated on the second Monday after the Catholic Easter.

MARGAO- Margao is a city in India, the administrative center of the province of Salchet, the main city of South Goa. A small typical Indian town with narrow streets, shops and a huge eastern market.

One of the most majestic churches of Goa - the Church of the Holy Spirit (1645-1675) was placed on the site of a still set Jesuit church (1564.), demolished in 1571. Muslims. In front of the church is a rectangular square with mango trees. In Margao there is also a large municipal park and a children's park in Cogol. From the chapel of Monte (1820), built on a small cape, you can admire the beautiful panorama of the city. In Aguem Alto, near the chapel of St. Sebastian, are the famous caves of Pandava.

THE TOWN OF VASCO DA GAMA - Vasco is located on the banks of the Zuari River, near the Mormugao bay. Vasco da Gama is the terminal point of the railway line leading to Goa. The city is famous for its beautiful, spacious avenues and gardens. Its name was given in honor of the great discoverer of the sea route to India. In 1703, in connection with another epidemic of the plague that struck Old Goa, Vasco da Gama briefly visited the status of the capital.

VELHA - Velha is also Known in Portuguese as Goa Velha , the old city, it was the capital of the state of Goa before it moved to the city of Panaji. Old Goa was conquered by the Portuguese in 1510 and was given the name of " Goa Dourada " or, the Golden Goa , because of its palaces, markets, churches, for its active port blacks international maritime traffic and for the its being cosmopolitan.

In the Goa Vehla there are almost all the major religious buildings that were, among other things, included by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Among these, we find the Basilica of Bom Jesus , a major place of worship and a pilgrimage destination, the Cathedral of Santa Caterina , one of the largest churches in Asia, which is also an excellent example of Portuguese architecture.

Furthermore, in Goa Velha there is the Convent and the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi , built in 1661.

One of the oldest structures in Goa Velha is undoubtedly the Church of Saint Augustine , of which today only a few remains remain and one of the four towers.

Excursions from Goa

For those who are not as leisurely as they are on the beach, they might as well spend a good time and enjoy the activities of Goa, Goa is a perfect place, and the sea is the best place to satisfy the potential innermost heart and want to take risks. , a variety of water sports, water helicopters, water parachuting, diving, standing on the surfboard against the cool sea breeze, feel the true self, gliding on the sea, to achieve the pleasure of moving instantly.

EXCURSION OF JUNGLE AND WATERFALL

"The whole of Goa for one" day is one of the most popular excursions to Goa. The excursion program includes a visit to the Bhagavan Mahavir Nature Reserve, jeep safari through the jungle to the Dudhasagar waterfall. The waterfall crosses the existing railway, built in the time of the British. It is possible to swim in the pond at the foot of the waterfall and feed the monkeys. Tour of the spice plantation and lunch (included). For an additional fee, you can swim with elephants or ride them (700 rupees). Visiting Hindu and Portuguese temples of the 16th century. During the day you will have the opportunity to visit the most interesting in the state. The tour is regularly held for tourists from northern Goa, for tourists from South Goa - you need to specify the dates. Individual excursions up to 6 people are possible.

EXCURSION OF GOKARNA AND MURUDESHWAR

This excursion could begin in Goa and continues in the neighbouring state of Karnataka. The excursion includes a visit to Murdessvar, where the largest statue of Shiva and the museum is inside the statue. Ascend to the observation deck in the tower Gopuram. A walk through the village of Brahmin Gokarne, a sacred reservoir, a temple of naga-serpents, where one can make a wish, the Mahabaleshwar temple is a place of power. And many other attractions. After that you could take lunch and rest on the beach of Palolem - the most beautiful beach of Goa.

Where to Celebrate

In January, Quetem celebrated Jatra's festival, dedicated to temple deities. The festival is held in the temple of Shantadurg. Such holidays are celebrated throughout the year in various temples of Ponda.

One of the most significant events in Goa is the Carnival in Panaji, taking place in February. This carnival marks the beginning of Lent. Symbol of fun - "King Momo", the head of the parade, commands the subjects to forget about all the worries and have fun. Carnival lasts three days and three nights.

In March, the whole state celebrates the merry Hindu festival Shigmotsav, or Shigmo. Street processions, performances by local troupes, dances with sabers and other performances last 5 days.

The procession of All Saints is an event that is celebrated in April. Believers carry statues of 26 saints from the church of St. Andrew, located in a small village near Pilar.

December 3 is the feast of St. Francis Javier, dedicated to the anniversary of the death of the patron saint of Goa. Catholic pilgrims from all over the world in the precedent of this holiday pray for 9 days

.

SUNBURN MUSIC FESTIVAL in December: Goa's most famous entertainment project is the world's top ten electronic music festival - Sunburn Music Festival.

GOA HERITAGE FESTIVAL from January to February: The festival aims to preserve and promote the traditional culture of Goa, and the artists of Panaji celebrate with various art exhibitions.

THE GRAPE ESCAPADE WINE FESTIVAL in February: The Goa Wine Festival is held in the open atrium of the Inox Theatre in Panaji City to promote a variety of tourism industry, international wine merchants and local buyers, hoteliers, catering and entertainment, food and leisure industry Gather together.

SHIGMO FESTIVAL in March: Panjim, Goa, India - March 18, 2017: Circus with ghumats, local percussion instruments, traditional annual Shigmo festival parade performing at the rich cultural heritage of Panjim Exhibition Goa. Shigmo parade is a street festival binged with music, dance, colours and float parade. Parades are held in Mapusa, Panaji and Ponda with floats that are brightly lit up. This festival takes place usually a week after holi. 

GOA CARNIVAL from February to March: The Goa Carnival is synonymous with Goa, the ultimate expression of the typical Goa hedonistic spirit, mainly held in Panaji, Margao, Vasco and Mapusa, but in fact the whole Goa is full in the three-day festival. The color and the carnival atmosphere.

SAO JOAO FESTIVAL in June: To commemorate Saint-João, the most respected god in Porto, people celebrated on the night of June 23, and the whole city boiled.  Music, dance, food, and fireworks add a lot to the São João. In fact, the origin of the São João is not related to Christianity, it is to celebrate the summer solstice.

Village youth wearing crowns of leaves & feathers, carrying bottles of Fenny advancing through the village. Sao Joao festival in Goa is loaded with folk dances, music, fruits and fenny.

GOA MANGO FESTIVAL: This state festival is Goa’s way of celebrating the onset of Mango season when different varieties of mango cultivated in Goa are put on display. It includes workshops, seminars and demonstrations. This is one for mango-lovers.

GANESH CHATURTHI, August to September: The birth of the Ganesha, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, is an 11-day festival. On the eve of fourth Day, the statue of Ganesha was placed in a temporary shed called matov and immersed in the water (Visarjan) on the last day of the festival, accompanied by a colourful parade.

DUSSEHRA September to October: The Dussehra is called "Dasro" in Konkani (Kangkan, the official language of Goa, India) and is a very lively festival. The grand event begins with the early morning religious ceremonies, and at dusk, the gods will sit on the palankhi parade.

MONTE MUSIC FESTIVAL in November: The festival combines a variety of music and cultures on a single platform, including the amphitheatre of the ancient Goa, the atrium and the Church of the Holy Virgin, usually for four days, with performances starting at 5 pm.

DIWALI in November: Diwali is a four-day festival including Lakshmi Pujan, Narak Chaturdasi or Chhoti Diwali (Little Diwali), Diwali and Bhai duj. On the same day, the firecrackers must be filled with paper-stamped Narkasur, which is ridiculed, insulted, burned and cremated.

INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: International film festival get organised in November month of every year. Bollywood’s famous and rich people come down to Goa for this film festival spectacle, One more interesting thing, that this festival hosts international directors and artists in a series of enticing events. Make a note in your calendar now.

FOOD AND CULTURAL FESTIVAL: Main purpose of this festival is to promote the food, cuisine, drinks and culture. This festival is celebrated on any of the beaches of Goa. This festival celebrates in the month of November and December the peak season time for Goa tourism. There is also a showcase of Goan entertainment in the form of music, plays and dramas.

CHRISTMAS: All over the world, 25th December is celebrated as Christmas. On this day, the Birth of Jesus Christ is commemorated and in Goa it is highly commercialized. Local people organise a dance and music and do fire work to celebrate this occasion.

What to Eat

The main place in the cooking of Goa is fish, coconuts and rice. The cuisine of the region, stretching along the Konkan coast to Goa and Mangalore, is characterized by the prevalence of fish dishes. Karnataka is distinguished by a variety of cooking. Vegetarian cuisine dominates in Udipi, and Kodagu residents prefer meat food.

One of the main products in Karnataka is rice, as well as jovari raga (millet). In rural areas, ragas are steamed. From it roll balls and serve with a sharp chutney sauce or hooli. No less popular in Goa and a product such as Dosa, served with coconut chutney.

The Concan coast is an amazing place, characterized by an abundance of cashew nuts, coconuts and vegetables. However, seafood - flounder, salmon (ravas), mackerel, shrimp, lobster and sea shellfish occupy a dominant place here. Fish here, as a rule, are cooked on the grill or fried, and then served with fresh coconuts and spices. The main ingredient used for the marinade is kokum (sour prunes). Used raw mango, tamarind or Goan vinegar. Kokum is used to make a popular drink - solkadhi.

The cuisine of Goa combines Portuguese and local traditions. Typical dishes for this area are pace-a-Portuguse (fish curry with olive oil), as well as an amber (fish curry with tamarind). The Goian chili, known for its bright color, is used to make reheiomasala sauce, which is added to fish and pork dishes.

Characterized by the delicacy of taste and Malvian fish dishes. Especially popular are bengu (fried mackerel with spices) and morichiamti (spicy curry shark).

Rice, curry and fish are the main foods of Goa. Goa's various fish dishes are very famous. Coconut and coconut oil are often used together with peppers, spices, vinegar, etc. for seasoning. In Goa, Portuguese sausages are as popular as Indian traditional food curry rice.

Khatkhate, a Goa-specific stewed vegetable, is popular in Hindu or Christian festivals. The ingredients include at least five vegetables, fresh coconut and special Goan spices. There is also a multi-layered egg dessert called Bepinka that is also very popular. As for alcohol, it is mainly Goan's local cashew and coconut wine.

Forts in Goa

FORT AGUADA: Near the beach of Candolim is the ancient Portuguese fort of Aguada. The unapproachable walls of the fort hide a large courtyard on which stands the same old as the fort lighthouse itself. The lighthouse of Fort Aguada is visible from afar and has an unusual barrel-like shape.

One should immediately get used to the idea that one can not get by alone here, take a look at one of the famous forts of GOA tourists on buses, mostly it's the Indians, but thanks to the impressive size of the fort, everyone has enough space.

 Not surprisingly, the fort of Aguada was unassailable, all the time when it was used for its intended purpose, because today the dimensions of the defensive structures are impressive.

For the postal species it is better to shoot, the fort of Aguada from the height of a nearby modern lighthouse.

Fort Aguada is open for visits from 10 to 18 hours, but if you are late, then for a small baksheesh ‘guards will allow you to wander alone on the monument of Portuguese military construction and Goan history

FORT CHAPORA: Fort Chapora, like most military buildings of this kind, occupied a strategic position - not just on the seashore, but also at the mouth of the river. The fortress, located 34 km from Panaji , was built by the Portuguese almost 300 years ago on the ruins of even older Indian bastions. Today, the place of the military was occupied by tourists, turning Fort Chapora into a popular tourist attraction. Today the once powerful fortress looks like this: a wall with several entrances, surrounding a practically deserted area in the center, with outlines of observation towers. But here they come not so much to study the features of defensive architecture, but rather to enjoy the sense of spaciousness that inevitably arises at the top of a seaside hill.

The fort is on not too high, but rather stony hill - it is better to wear comfortable shoes. Ride comfortably early in the morning or late in the evening - when there is no heat. At the same time you can meet sunrise or sunset.

At the foot of the hill, on which stands the fortress, is one of the most picturesque beaches of the northern coast of Goa . However, it is worth bearing in mind that this beautiful place is not as simple as it seems. Because of the periodically arising strong current, it is not safe to swim here, especially children. Therefore, you need to go into the water very carefully.

How to Get:

By Road: It is most convenient to get to Fort Chapora from Mapusa. A 10-kilometer taxi ride. From the bus station Mapusa can be reached by bus. But from the stop to the fort you will have to walk 30-40 minutes.   

History of Goa

A peculiar culture of Goa formed a colonial past. In 1510, Alfonso de Albuquerque founded in this area a small, but powerful Portuguese enclave. Even after Goa joined the Republic of India in 1961, he did not lose the Portuguese roots. The influence of this country is manifested in clothing, religion, language, cooking and even in music, which is a combination of a mournful Fado with incendiary rhythms of the folk songs of Concan.

Goa is one of the most popular holiday destinations, characterized by idyllic beaches, coconut plantations, rice paddies, delightful churches and luxurious mansions. Especially noteworthy are the Hindu temples of Ponda 15th – 18th centuries and the beautiful cathedrals of Old Goa.

How to Reach Goa

By Air: The simplest and most understandable - to buy a ticket, Dabolim International Airport or Goa International Airport is the sole airport in Goa. It is 4 km from the nearest city Vasco da Gama, 23 km from Margao, and about 30 km from the state capital Panjim

By Road: Goa is connected by a network of highways with neighboring states, in addition to national highways NH-17 and NH-4 there are several major roads.

By Train: Goa is also well connected with train rout as well, When you are planning this route,  it is necessary to keep in mind that trains between Goa and Delhi go for more than 24 hours, the journey time is from 26 to 35 hours, to Mumbai about 12 hours, to Pune about 14, to Mangalore (Karnataka) about 5 hours, to Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) about 16 hours.

Museum in Goa

ANCESTRAL GOA CENTER: The Ancestral Goa Center, known by the locals as the Big Foot Museum for its large foot-shaped dance floor, is one of the main attractions of the village of Loutolim. Local artist Maendra Jocelino Araujo Alvares, who gave life to the museum, recreated a small 19th century Goa village, in order to preserve the culture and traditions of the region for generations to come.

If you are not familiar with Goa culture, a visit to Ancestral Goa Center offers a window to the past of the area, such as the production of Feni, a local coconut or cashew liqueur. The museum houses an enormous sculpture by Sant Mirabai, India's longest laterite sculpture. Be sure to visit Miranda House, one of Goa's oldest country houses, and stop for a Portuguese lunch at Fernando's Nostalgia, considered one of the best restaurants in the state.

Suggested Time to Visit

Climate of Goa The swimming season in Goa starts right after the rainy season, which ends in September. However, there are many lovers of Goa and during the rainy season - they are attracted by flowers, smells and non-tourist atmosphere, the main precipitations of which are low prices for housing, and the relaxed attitude of Goa to foreigners. At this time, the local population rests from making money on tourists, and you can feel yourself "their own" by going to the usual cafes and shops. Approximately in November in Goa (or on Goa - to whom as it is more pleasant) the mass of sunbathers is tightened, in the end of December their quantity increases avalanche. On Christmas and New Year even the empty beaches of Goa are flooded with crowds of Indian holidaymakers, and women in bikinis become uncomfortable. After January 10, Indians practically disappear, and bathing can be continued until the end of February. March is considered in Goa"

A mild, uniform climate and a short monsoon period in June-July allow you to rest in Goa all year round. The best time to travel is the period  October-March, when the average temperature ranges from +21 to +32 ° C. Summer (April and May) can be very hot and humid. However, on the coast this is easily tolerated. The average temperature in summer is +24 .. + 33 ° С, but from June to September it can be relatively cold (+20 .. +25 ° С), this period will suit those who do not like hot weather.

What & Where to Buy

The purchase of souvenirs is also an important item in tourism. Since Goa is famous for its beaches, coconut palm is one of its specialties. Shells, coconut shells, coconut leaf decorations and a variety of ceramic handicrafts are available. Goa leather and gemstone products are also very famous.

NIGHT MARKET IN ARPOR: The night market in Arpor is significantly different from traditional Indian markets. Firstly, it is held once a week, on the night from Saturday to Sunday. Secondly, he has a special character - a mixture of European flea collapses and noisy, indiscriminate Indian bazaars: all because a significant proportion of merchants and visitors are Europeans. And thirdly, this is a famous party place: there are several bars here, the relaxed atmosphere in which complement the sets of local DJs.

The bazaar is divided into 3 parts. The upper market is the realm of clothing, accessories and all sorts of Indian things: cashmere, carpets, spices, hammocks, embroidered pillows. There are several kiosks from European (albeit still only known on Goa ) designers. When buying it is worth considering the likelihood of running into a fake - an authentic Nepalese sheepskin can easily be an ordinary jacket from kozhzama from an underground Chinese factory.

The central market is the heart of the night market in Arpor. Here in many booths sell fast food for every taste, beer, wine, strong drinks.

The lower market is an entertainment area with bars and restaurants offering fresh fruit cocktails and scorching shots. Here artists from all over the world often perform, fire shows are held - you just can not get bored. In general, the market in Arpora is visited mostly by a pleasant, albeit very specific, audience (as evidenced by the omnipresent flavor of not quite legal smoking mixtures).

You can park the scooter in the free parking lot next to the market. But closer to 21:00 this is likely to be a big problem. If there is no desire to suffer with the search for a place, give the bike to the parking lot.

How to get there: the road from the nearest major settlement of Calangute takes 20-25 minutes by bus and a little less - by scooter.

Opening hours: night from Saturday to Sunday from 18:00 to 2:00 (from December to the end of April).

MARKET IN ANJUNA: In the 60's. In the 20th century, Anjuna was flooded with hippies from all corners of the globe. A couple of years later they founded a small market where handmade accessories of their own production were sold - one must somehow make a living after spending all the savings they brought with them. Over time, local and then ubiquitous Chinese appeared in the bazaar.

Unlike the night market in Arpor , a market located on the southern outskirts of Anjuna operates on Wednesdays. Under wooden tents covered with palm leaves, you can find absolutely everything: from national clothes, jewelry from stones, Buddhist talismans of varying degrees of authenticity to hundreds of varieties of tea and spices. Price lists are rare: in Anjuna, the value of goods determines the level of ownership of the art of bargaining. But in any case, the average Indian bauble or seasoning will cost an order of magnitude cheaper than in other countries.

The Anjun market does not only go for shopping, but also to feel the charm of the native service: to make a tattoo, braid dreadlocks, to taste national dishes.

In the concept of the market in Anjuna, besides commercial, the hippies laid an entertaining idea: trans-music performed by local bands and musicians from all sides.

Opening hours: 8: 00-19: 00, every Wednesday from October to May.

MARKET IN BAGA: On the Goan market, you can find all or almost all, but there are plenty of markets. And all of them are full of variety of goods for every taste, color and purse. One of the top markets of Goa is the bazaar in Baga , it is Makis Knight Market. And let the tourist guidebooks in one voice call it a clone located just 2 km more than the untwisted market in Arpor , the variety is a "goat" of Goa, why not discover something new for yourself?

The market in Baga is located on the shore of the river of the same name in the east of the village. One of its advantages over a competitor from Arpora is a longer working season from November to May. There is a huge number of shopping areas and shops with food (Indian, Tibetan and European cuisine are represented) that surround the "heart" of the market - the stage.

Several trading rows are occupied by the traditional Tibetan market for Goa. Here on the neatly laid out on the ground mats are selling authentic products made of copper, silver and semiprecious stones.

In Baga, the minimum number of expensive European shops. In the absolute majority here, of course, Indian goods at slightly inflated prices: spices, weight tea, rice paper notebooks, leather products, smoking accessories, figurines, wood crafts, national clothes. True, the sellers are happy to bargain, although they do not throw off as much as we would like.

Opening hours: 18: 00-1: 00. Entry is chargeable. Parking is free of charge.

MARKET IN MAPUS: The main difference between the Mapusa market and its Goan brothers is that it is more localized. Virtually everything that is sold here is worn, eaten and used by Indians. And although the market works every day, the peak of activity is trading on Friday, when salesmen come to the so-called Big Friday Market from all over Goa.

It is impossible to find European designer clothes, fridge magnets and smoking pipes. Most of the local jewelry is also designed for Indians, but some Europeans do not mind buying multicolored bengal bracelets. True, it must be remembered that some ornaments are considered ritual - it is better to ask the seller what they mean.

But in the market in Mapus there is a huge selection of spices, tea, fabrics and, of course, fruits. Prices for the last - the best in Goa.

In Mapus wonderful fish rows. For a fresh catch here it is better to come early in the morning. Do not worry about the specific smell - if necessary, the fish is immediately carefully trimmed and carefully packed.

By the way, about smells, more precisely about aromas. The market in Mapus has its own living attraction. This is the perfumer Ramakrishna. In his shop he sells aromatic chopsticks. These sticks are made by traditional technology - from cow manure with the addition of natural essential oils. Still Ramakrishna became famous for the manufacture of author's spirits. To become the owner of the very "own" fragrance, you need to sit opposite the master - he will look into the client's eyes, pray and quickly mix the ingredients from several jars.

How to Get:

The market in Mapus is located in the neighborhood with the bus station - the largest transport hub of the state. Therefore, you can easily get here from any Goa town.

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday: 8: 00-18: 30 (in fact, the market works a few hours after the official closing time).

WEDNESDAY MARKET IN GOA: One of the most anticipated markets is the Wednesday flea Market in Anjuna, located in North Goa, or called, also, flea market.

More than thirty years ago, at the end of the 60s, the market was conceived and created by hippies with the aim of uniting and sharing experiences. Today it attracts many tourists who, before or after enjoying a day at sea, visit the market.

What to buy? Shirts, t-shirts, bags, stone objects and souvenirs of all kinds; not only that, you can find the fine fabrics of Rajasthan, whose craftsmanship is one of the best of India, and the typical Indian clothing. You can also buy fishing pants, tarpaulins.

To be able to buy without spending too much, it is advisable to go, or early in the morning or, above all, at sunset in order to better negotiate with the sellers. And if the final price seems too high, just go to the next stall

Spice Plant

SPICE PLANTS: Fragrant plantations of spices are a highlight of the state of Goa, and of all India. So visit the homeland of vanilla, cloves and cardamom, immerse your nose in fragrant herbs, enjoy dishes that are generously flavored with exotic bright powder - the local must-do! It's up to you to choose a suitable plantation. A lot of such "herb gardens" are scattered all over the state. Here, by the way, you can see how pineapples and papaya, cashews and coconuts grow.

It is better, of course, to buy an excursion to one of the spice plantations, for example, in a street travel agency. Then in the list of entertainment there will also be a walk on the elephant, and lunch, and belly dances. The second option is to go yourself. Dances with elephants in this case, too, can be, but not iron.

The most popular spice plantations in Goa are:

1. Sahakari Spice Farms is 2 kilometers from the city of Ponda, the center of Goa. Here you can book a 2.5-hour excursion, which includes the same dance, climbing palm trees (master class from staff and the opportunity to repeat), elephant riding (if you are lucky - also bathing with an elephant), as well as lunch in a restaurant.
2. Plantation Savoi Plantation, where, incidentally, in addition to tours also rent out rooms for rent.
3. The Pascoal spice farm is 10 kilometers from the city of Ponda (here you can also book an excursion and rent a room).
4. Another plantation 10 kilometers from Ponda is Tropical Spice Plantation. They say that it is the most photogenic of all, here there is even a lake with a bridge - just have time to make pictures.

By the way, organized excursions to spice plantations also often include a visit to the Dudhsagar waterfall or check-in to some other attractions along the way. As a bonus, so to speak.

Waterfalls in Goa

DUDHSAGAR WATERFALL: The 310-meter-high Dudhsagar waterfalls, among the highest in India, are a good excuse to get away from the beaches and get to know the wilder side of Goa. According to legend, Dudhsagar, which means "sea of ​​milk", was created when a princess, while she was bathing under the falls, poured a jug of sweet milk to hide her nakedness from the prince hidden among the trees.

Today the impetuous waters of the waterfalls appear milky-white for the descent on four cliffs, on several levels, towards the natural pool below. If you decide to take part in the hard trekking to visit the waterfalls, you will certainly be rewarded with a refreshing swim and a spectacular view. The best time to visit is between October and March, when the probability of being surprised by the monsoons is lower and the waterfalls reach their peak after the rainy season.

ARVALEM WATERFALL: Not far from North Goa, from an altitude of 50 meters, the waterfall Arvalem rushes down. You can hear it for a couple of miles. This is a characteristic noise for water, which runs along the rocks of the Western Ghat.

Below the stream of the waterfall form a lake, which blends harmoniously into the picturesque landscape. Nearby is a stone staircase leading to the temple of Sri Rudresvar. If you want to make great pictures or videos, then find a stone bridge - it has a beautiful view of the waterfall.

Caves Arvalem - a pleasant addition to the waterfall. They say that these caves were made by Buddhist pilgrims. Well, there was nowhere to live, there was nowhere. These structures could appear around the 5th-6th century. Caves are 5 tunnels that connect to one large hall. In size, it looks like two hockey grounds. On the walls were inscriptions in Sanskrit - they are about 800 years old.

Waterfalls and caves are a beautiful sight. You can come here with family or with friends. Fling pebbles in the lake, pofotkat, play football in a huge stone hall.

Reserves in Goa

BUNDLA NATURE RESERVE: The smallest reserve in Goa covers an area of ​​only 8 square kilometers. km, which does not prevent it from being the most popular destination for families with children - to abandon the hot sun and endless ocean. Children here are really free: they are waiting for the zoo, crammed full of interesting little animals, a mini steam locomotive, a game room and the opportunity to ride an elephant (alas, only with parents). Adults in Bundle will also like it - and elephants, after all, are available, and a blissful taen of rare beauty of trees with the possibility of distracting from the ubiquitous sand and necks on the beach.

In general, the Bundle reserve consists of a wild and equipped part. In the center there is a zoological garden and a botanical garden with all the children's goods, a wild forest with real predators is around, which few, of course, have managed to see. But if you're lucky, you can see leopards, wild boars, Indian bison and even the ruins of an ancient temple with stone slabs hidden from barbarian Europeans with images of Hindu gods.

How to Get: Road to Bondla wild life santuary, Goa.  

By Road:  at the directions from Panaji (55 km north of the city) or by sightseeing buses from Margao and Panaji. The reserve works every day from 9 am and 5 pm, but it's impossible to get to the zoo on Thursday - it's closed.

KOTIGAO NATURE RESERVE: The second largest state reserve is in the very south of Goa, just 12 km from Palolem  - so it's worth nothing to get here with your own running. This is what attracts most of the tourists, eager to see with their own eyes the amazing multi-storey jungle and mischievous obezyanok in them.

Kotigao is nestled on the picturesque banks of the Talpona River, just 60 km south of Panaji . Its main attractions are two observation towers in forests 25 meters high, from which an amazing view of the watering place opens. In the morning and late at night wild animals come here to get drunk, so staying at Kotigao at night is not a bad idea (for details, see below).

However, it should be borne in mind that the survey towers are quite far from the main entrance - at six and nine kilometres.

The reserve was established in 1969, but since then the animals in it have diminished noticeably. For example, here you cannot find tigers and leopards, there are practically no gazelles, bears, panthers and hyenas. With whom you can collide face to face - so these are funny monkeys, some tourists even bring bananas to feed the fidget. There are both wild boars and Indian gaur bison.

In general, this reserve is more suitable for fans of the flora as such - you should not count on any special fauna. But enjoy the view of the ancient entangled forests, in which the sunlight barely reaches the ground - please.

How to Get: India, Goa, Kanyakumari - Panavel Rd, Canacona, Goa

By Road: From Panaji by bus to the south (about 60 km) along the NH-17 route to Karwar via Chaudi, buses run about two kilometers from the gate of Kotigao. Better still, rent a bike or car - it will be much more convenient.

Opening hours of the reserve: from 7:00 to 17:30. You can try to get permission to spend the night in the reserve - in a small guest house or on a watchtower. The permit is issued at the office of the Deputy Conservator of Forests in Panaji at 3rd Floor, Junta House, Panaji.