Goa is a state in western India with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea. Its long history as a Portuguese colony prior to 1961 is evident in its preserved 17th-century churches and the area’s tropical spice plantations. Goa is also known for its beaches, ranging from popular stretches at Baga and Palolem to those in laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda.
Old Goa is home to the massive, Portuguese-style Se Cathedral and the baroque Basilica of Bom Jesus, which holds the remains of the state’s patron saint, Francis Xavier. In Panaji, the capital, the Latin Quarter’s winding streets contain galleries, cafes and colonial-era Portuguese-style homes. For shopping, visitors flock to Anjuna’s famous flea market and Mackie’s seasonal night bazaar. On the coast, the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary provides a look at a native mangrove ecosystem. Goa’s interior features small villages, quiet retreats, waterfalls and jungle trails.
Ideal time to visit :
Oct–May, generally dry and sunny, is the main travel season, peaking Dec–Jan. Jun–Sep is the monsoon season, with torrential rains. Key events include the Goa Carnival (Feb/Mar, dates vary) with colorful street parades and a party atmosphere. Diwali (Oct/Nov, dates vary) is the Hindu festival of light with firecrackers and night processions. The long-running International Film Festival of India (Nov) features productions from around the world.
