Planning a vacation? Most holidayers in India invariably choose Goa to spend their precious free time. There are many interesting places in Goa, and all of them not necessarily beaches. Here are some of them (we'll save the beaches for the last, since they are the most obvious).
Spice plantations
Goa is a haven if you love to go on nature treks – plantations and gardens where all kinds of spices are grown are fun to visit. Some of them are located in Ponda, Savoi-Verem and Valpoi-Sattari.
Forts
Goa has a rich Portuguese legacy and there are several forts across the state. One of the most popular forts among travellers is the Aguada Fort, which is an early 17th century citadel built by the Portuguese to safeguard themselves from attacks by the Marathas and the Dutch. There is also the Mormugao Fort, near the harbour located close to the town of Vasco da Gama.
There is not much left of the fort barring a chapel and a little portion of a wall, but it is interesting nevertheless, if you are interested in history. The Chapora Fort is yet another interesting place. The fort is near Mapusa and was built in the 17th century. Because of its proximity to the Vagator beach, it is a much visited place.
Churches galore
Some of Goa's most well-known churches include the Church of St Francis of Assisi, Se Cathedral and Basilica of Bom Jesus. The Church of St Francis of Assisi was built as early as the 17th century, and is a testimony of the state's Portuguese legacy. The holy remains of St Francis Xavier are housed in the Basilica of Bom Jesus, thus making this place of worship one of the most popular churches in Goa.
Temples
Typically, no one ever associates Goa with temples, but there are several famous ones, and ancient temples at that. One of them is Manguesh temple, dedicated to Manguesh or Shiva. The other temples are Shantadurga temple at Kavlem, Naguesh temple, said to be built in the 15th century and the Mahalaxmi temple at Panaji.
Flea markets
Goa is full of interesting flea markets, the most important one among them being the Anjuna flea market, which sells all kinds of trinkets, spices, clothes, food and drink. Another flea market you will enjoy visiting is the Mapusa Friday market in North Goa.
Beaches
And now, we come to the beaches – essentially what Goa is known for. While the beaches of South Goa are known to be quieter, North Goa beaches gets hordes of tourists. Famous South Goa beaches are Palolem and Polem, while Rajbagh and Patnem beaches are lesser known and are ideal to relax. North Goa's beaches are more popular, and everyone has heard of Calangute, Anjuna, Vagator, Baga, Miramar, Dona Paula, and Arambol.
Martin Wynn
