Mention 'Goa' and images of sun kissed sandy beaches, surf, seafood, spirits and spirituality flood the mind. Quite naturally, this lush green terrain in the Konkan region along India's west coast has so much variety to offer for every type of traveller. What makes Goa special is the fine amalgamation of Portuguese and Indian influences that have blended over the centuries, to produce some of the finest expressions in art, architecture, music, food, fashion and lifestyle.
There is more to Goa than its fabled beaches and parties. An ancient and beautiful land, Goa is home to prehistoric art sites, majestic waterfalls, deep caves, swampy mangroves, colourful wildlife and winding hill roads - a veritable treasure trove for those who wish to trek, explore, go riding or photograph. The unfolding landscape offers spectacular views of old forts, vintage buildings, cozy villas and whitewashed churches. Goa is not just a destination, it's a discovery.
State: Goa
Destination Type: Beach
Nearest Destinations: Belgaum 104 km, Pune 441 km, and Mumbai 595 km
Nearest Sterling Resort: Sterling Goa-Varca, Sterling Goa- Bardez, Sterling Karwar
Best time to visit: Round the year
Languages: English, Konkani, Marathi and Hindi
Nearest Railway Station: Madgaon Junction
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Summer: Goa is warm through the year. The average day temperature is about 35°C during summer.
Monsoon: June to September; Goa looks green and gorgeous in the monsoon months.
Winter: Mid-December to February; Pleasant weather with nights at 21°C and days at 28°C.
1. Carry sunglasses, scarves and sunscreen lotion for the beach.
2. Go on food walks or hit the heritage trail, based on what interests you.
3. Go beyond the party zones to explore the idyllic charm of the Goan countryside.
See why Goa's Dudhsagar falls is called 'a sea of milk' and why this spot makes nature enthusiasts go crazy.
Also known as the Pandava caves, the Harvalem or Arvalem caves of Goa are surrounded in mystery and mythology.
Goa has much more than beaches, parties and feni to offer. Take time out to explore the mangrove forests on the mighty Mandovi river.
Explore Velha Goa to capture a glimpse of the town's Portuguese history and what led to its downfall.
Goa reverberates with modern ideas that transcend geographical and cultural borders. The face of Lord Shiva sculpted on a rock at Ozran Beach illustrates this well.
The beautiful Kushavati river runs through the village of Usgalimal, in South Goa. On its rocks, you can uncover carvings which are tens of thousands of years old.
Houses of Goa is a quirky museum. An architectural marvel bringing alive the amalgamation of Portuguese and Konkani styles, it also throws light on Goan history.
Known for keeping the Tiatr folk art alive in Goa, The Tiatr Academy hosts a unique Goan show that represents its history, people and their culture.
Take a walk down Goa's Latin quarters at Fontainhas and revisit a part of its colonial history.
The Big Foot Cross Museum at Loutolim is an open-air museum. It captures glimpses of Goan rural life as it was, a hundred years ago.