Goa is divided into two major districts – South Goa and North Goa. They are two major parts of the state that are completely different from one another and have a lot of different experiences to offer to the tourists. Speaking of South Goa in particular, the district has so much and so many attractions but it is a lot quieter than North Goa which is more popular for beaches and clubs. Anyone who is looking for serenity and peace would surely like to explore South Goa.
Whether it be enjoying the nightlife or basking in the morning sunshine of the beaches, Goa, in general, remains to be one of the most endearing places to visit and explore. It is truly an amazing destination full of exotic beaches where one can indulge in a lot of activities. And perhaps it is owing to the fun and chill vibes that this place has, that it has become a dream destination for many.
If you are planning a trip to South Goa soon then the best time to visit here would be between Mid-November to Mid-February. During the summertime, the temperature can go really high as it is a coastal area and also is located near the ocean. Typically people from other countries don’t feel comfortable in such weather conditions.
In 1510, the Portuguese had expanded their colony to its present boundaries which is South Goa today. Then, in the 20th century, December 19, 1961, to be precise, Goa was annexed by India from Portugal rule, along with two other enclaves namely Daman and Diu.
In 1965, all three of them were merged to form a single geographical conclusion. Then in 1987, on 30th May, Goa successfully attained the full statehood while the territories of Daman and Diu were given the title of union territory separately.
Located in Canacona Southern Goa; it is another famous beach. It’s known for its beautiful crescent – shape which makes it possible to see both the ends from the centre of the beach. Featured in Matt Damon English Movie The Bourne Supremacy; it’s another kind of beach with Green Island; its definitely one of the places to be in.
Lots of foreigners linger here. Being one of the best beaches for relaxation; most of them can be seen sun – bathing, listening to music, playing football or simply walking on the sand. Kids can be seen making sand houses and other such structures.
Agonda beach is the perfect beach in Goa for anyone who wants to relax away from it all. This seemingly endless pristine beach stretches for almost two miles. It’s lined with shacks and huts, some simple and some fancy. Hawkers aren’t allowed on the beach, so you’ll be able to remain refreshingly undisturbed.
A tiny beach cove at the north of Palolem beach, Butterfly Beach can be accessed via a 2-hour hike through brooks, small streams, and the jungle. As no roads lead up to the beach, the only other option is to take a boat-ride from Palolem beach. Lack of motorable roads makes this place a paradise for people who love privacy. Sands are white and the water is translucent here, as a thick forest runs parallel to the beach which is sparsely dotted with a few tourists. Named after the exotic butterflies found on this beach, Butterfly Beach is one of the least crowded beaches of Goa. Gaze at the sunset while strolling on the beach and at times a few dolphins can be seen around too!
This ancient fort has been standing on the bluff overlooking the Cape for centuries. It changed hands many times during its history and was controlled sometimes by the Hindu rulers and sometimes by the Muslim rulers. The Portuguese wrested it from the control of the Raja of Soonda in 1763 and remained in control of it for the rest of the colonial rule of Goa.
When the fort was no longer useful as a military bastion, it was converted into a prison in 1935 and continued to be used in this capacity until 1955.
The Goa Chitra is an ethnographic museum based in the former Portuguese colony (and now India’s smallest state) of Goa. It has a large collection—over 4000 artefacts focusing on Goa’s traditional agrarian technology and lifestyle.
The Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Canacona Taluka, South Goa district, of Goa, India, established in 1968. There is an eco-tourism complex at the entrance of the sanctuary that houses a nature interpretation centre, cottages, toilets, library, reception area, rescue centre, canteen, children’s park, and forest ranger office.
A military museum, the Naval Aviation Museum houses exhibits which portray the evolution of the Indian Navy over the years. The museum is divided into an indoor exhibit and an indoor gallery divided over two floors.
Inaugurated in October 1998, the Naval Aviation Museum is the second of its kind in India, the first one being the Air Force Museum in Delhi. The outdoor exhibit is a vast park where visitors can walk around and have a look at all the aircrafts which the Indian Navy has used over the years. There are a total of thirteen aircrafts on display, some of them being: Sea Harrier, Hawker Sea Hawk, HAL-HT-2, HAL Chetak and the Westland Sea King. In the indoor section of the museum, visitors will find information about the key battles in which the Indian Navy was involved. Apart from that, on display are weapons used in war, uniforms worn by Navy personnel and also old photographs. The museum also houses mammoth replicas of the INS Vikrant and the INS Viraat.
Been to Bigfoot Museum recently . Situated in Loutolim,South Goa.
Good place for a one time visit.Ticket is on a higher side.Old time Goa is replicated.There is a huge Mirabai Sculpture carved in one piece of stone which has found place in Guiness Book.This place not suitable for seniors.Difficult to walk.
Bang opposite is Alvares house -old Portuguese house.
Dona Paula, named for a Portuguese romantic heroine popular in local folklore, is an affluent area at the mouth of the Zuari River known for its ocean views. Dona Paula View Point is a lookout and promenade, home to Baroness von Leistner’s 1969 “Image of India” statue. Quiet Dona Paula Beach offers water sports and souvenir shops. High-end hotels dot the area, with restaurants offering western and Indian food.
Located within easy reach of Panaji, this city beach is an enchanting spot from which to watch the sun sink into the Arabian Sea.
Thanks to its proximity to the regional capital, Panaji, Miramar Beach is popular among local city-dwellers who come here for a relaxing beach stroll after work or on weekends. With a wide and long stretch of gently sloping golden sand and warm, clean waters, it is also suitable for sunbathing and swimming. Walk barefoot on the fine silvery sands and stay to witness the beautiful sunset.
