The party capital of India, Goa is known as one of the most happening places in the country. This hip and happening destination has always been attracting the eyes and attention of people worldwide. Although you can have a blast at this destination throughout the year, the best time to visit Goa is winter.
Precisely Goa is at its best from November to February and between these months you are surely going to have a lot of fun. There are maddening parties throughout the days and nights making every visiting soul enjoy to their fullest. Now if this has induced thrill and enjoyment inside your head, then here are some of those activities that are worth indulging in.
14 of the top activities to enjoy while in Goa
1. Embrace the Beauty of Dudhsagar Waterfall
Let’s talk about the activity that you can enjoy even before reaching Goa and if you are taking a train to the destination. There are several scenic views of train rides throughout India and one of them is while you cross the Dudhsagar Waterfalls to reach Goa. While you reach the point the scenic view will keep you astonished for good.
You can have a look at the beauty of this waterfall for approximately 30 seconds from both sides of the train. The Goa Express is the train that passes the fall daily, so if you are coming to Goa via train then make sure to get this one for the cinematic waterfall.
2. Exploring Goa’s Historic Churches
To peek inside the past of any destination, visitors have to explore the historic places and monuments. If you want the same in Goa make sure to visit the churches here. These are the historic structures that can help you understand the glorious past of Goa.
Be it the burial site of the Roman Jesuit Missionary St. Francis Xavier or any other; it is sure to be insightful. Some have become the sightseeing spots for the visitors, some still host events, and some are turned into libraries.
| Name of the churches | Address |
| Basilica of Bom Jesus | Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa 403402 |
| Se Cathedral | Velha, Goa 403402 |
| Church of St. Cajetan | Velha, Goa 403402 |
| Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception | Rua Emídio Garcia, Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403001 |
| St. Augustine Tower and Church of St. Augustine | Church Complex, Old Goa, Goa 403402 |
| Church of St. Anne (Santana Church) | Santana, Talaulim, Goa 403402 |
| St. Alex Church | Curtorim, Goa 403202 |
| Church of St. Francis of Assisi | Off National Highway 4, Velha, Goa 403110 |
| Mae De Deus Church | Chogm Rd, Saligao, Goa 403511 |
| Three Kings Church | Cuelim, Cansaulim, Goa 403712 |
3. Indulge in Local Festivals
Goans are very enthusiastic about the local festivals that they organise. Some of these festivals go on for more than a day. Most of the festivals that are celebrated in the state are also joined and enjoyed by the visitors. Being a part of these celebrations or indulging in activities surrounding the festivity can give you a closer experience of their culture.
Be it the feast of St. Francis Xavier, the Christmas celebration, or Goa’s carnival; all of them are different and amazing. From parades to music to colourful costumes; there are a lot of things to enjoy during your visit.
| Popular Local Festivals | Celebrated Month |
| Shigmo Festival | March |
| Goa Carnival | February |
| Feast of St. John the Baptist (Sao Joao) | June |
| Feast of St. Francis Xavier | December |
| Bonderam Festival | August |
| Diwali | October/November |
| Ganesh Chaturthi | August/September |
| Christmas | December |
| Jatra of Shantadurga | January |
| Touxeachem Fest (Cucumber Feast) | July |
4. Explore the Museums on a Sunday
Even the museums of Goa are also fascinating and this is not an exaggeration. Taking the Goa State Museum as an example; 8000 artifacts include coins, sculptures, and manuscripts. Other than this, there are different museums built across the state offering an insight into the past. This activity is quite time-consuming as well so you can spare a day for museum hopping throughout the state.
| Name of the Museums | Address of the Museums | Timings |
| Goa State Museum | Adil Shah Palace, Avenida Dom João de Castro, Patto Colony, Panaji, Goa 403521 | Monday to Friday: 10 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday closed |
| Museum of Christian Art | Monte Santo (Holy Hill, next to St. Augustine Tower, Old Goa, Goa 403402 | Monday to Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. |
| Naval Aviation Museum | Bogmalo Road, Vasco Da Gama, Bagmalo, Goa 403806 | Tuesday to Sunday: 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Monday Closed |
| Houses of Goa Museum | House No. 674, Near Nisha’s Play School, Torda, Salvador do Mundo, Penha de Franc, Goa 403101 | Tuesday to Sunday: 10 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. Monday Closed |
| Big Foot Museum (Ancestral Goa) | Cross Museum, Main Road, Salcete District, Loutolim, Goa 403718 | Monday to Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| Goa Chitra Museum | H.No. 498, Near Auxilium High School, Benaulim, Goa 403716 | Monday to Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| Archaeological Museum | Old Goa, near Se Cathedral | Saturday to Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday Closed |
| Wax World Museum | Old Goa | Monday to Sunday: 9.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. |
5. Take a Walk in the Forest
Now, for all those who are going to Goa to think beyond party and nightlife, there is a gift that this state has on offer. You can visit one of the many sanctuaries in Goa that will give you time to connect with nature and wildlife.
Enjoy the scenic beauty of these places or simply listen to the chirping sound of the birds; all of it is so good. Remember to bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and respect the natural habitat.
| Name of the National Parks | Timings |
| Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park | Monday to Sunday: 9.30 a.m. to 5.45 p.m. |
| Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary | Monday to Sunday: 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. |
| Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary | Monday to Sunday: 8 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. |
| Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary | Monday to Sunday: 7 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. |
| Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary | Tuesday to Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
6. Test your Luck at a Casino
Apart from exploring museums, sanctuaries, and parties, Goa has one more thing that not many states of India have, and that’s Casinos. That too some of the best ones in the entire country. To experience the party places you might get some advice to visit one of those places where you can test your luck and maybe win. From poker to slot machines, there are so many games that you can play while visiting here.
| Best Casinos in Goa | |
| Deltin Royale Casino | Majestic Pride Casino |
| Casino Pride | Deltin Caravela |
| Big Daddy Casino | Casino Palms |
7. Play Some Water Sports in Baga
One of the most interesting and playful places where you can head to in Goa is Baga Beach. It is a single-stop destination for all the fun and thrill you want. So if you are planning on indulging in some water sports then maybe Baga Beach is the ideal place to visit. There are many thrilling watersports that you can enjoy at this place and don’t worry there are eateries as well. So if you happen to recharge yourself then you won’t get short of food or drinks.
| Thrilling watersports to enjoy in Goa | |
| Jet Skiing | Parasailing |
| Banana Boat Ride | Bumper Ride |
| Kayaking | Scuba Diving |
| Windsurfing | Speed Boat Ride |
| Paddle Boarding | Snorkelling |
8. Go for Paragliding in Anjuna
If all of this doesn’t give you the thrill you want for your trip to Goa then maybe this activity could. Head to Anjuna Beach and enjoy paragliding from the cliff. It not only gives your body the chills but also a bird’s eye view of the beach and its surroundings.
| Key Information about Paragliding in Anjuna | |
| Location | Above Anjuna cliff, St Michael Vaddo, Anjuna, Goa 403509 |
| Duration | 10-15 minutes |
| Best Time to Visit | September To March |
| Essentials to carry |
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9. A Sunset in a Houseboat
Did you know that you can enjoy houseboat sunset trips in Goa as well? A houseboat sunset trip in Goa is a tranquil and scenic experience, offering a unique way to enjoy the state’s natural beauty along its rivers and backwaters. This is going to be an entirely different experience for all the visitors who wish to have it. This can serve as a relaxing affair between all the fun and thrill you get during the parties and water activities.
| Key Information about the activity | |
| Places to enjoy the activity |
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| Ideal time to enjoy | 2-3 hours |
| Onboard experiences |
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| Popular Houseboat Cruises |
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10. Explore the Fort Aguada
One of the top things that you can do while visiting Goa is explore Fort Aguada and its nearby areas. Constructed back in 1612, this fort is a standing reminder of the finesse architecture of Julião Simão. This was initially built to protect Goa from the Marathas and Dutches. If you happen to be an exploring soul then maybe visiting this place would give you an amazing time.
| Key Information about the activity | |
| Location | Situated on Sinquerim Beach about 18 km from Panaji |
| Key Attractions |
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| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Entry Fee | None |
11. Enjoy the Goa Carnival
Goa is all about the unforgettable memories that you create while visiting the place. Be it the parties, nightlife, beach activities, exploration, or the great food; all of it makes Goa what we know of it. Still, there is one thing that is underrated even today and that’s the Goa carnival. It is one of those events where you can get a hang of the vibrant culture that Goa had in the past and its present practises.
| Key Information about the activity | |
| When does it happen? | February just before Lent |
| Duration of the carnival | 3 days |
| Highlights of the carnival |
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| Tips during the carnival |
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12. Taste the local Cuisines
Okay so while talking about the best activities we cannot leave out the fun of tasting the gourmets of Goa. So here we have the advice that you do not miss out on enjoying the diverse palette of cuisines and drinks that Goa has on offer. Being a coastal region, you are surely going to get awesome seafood here, but this place is more than just seafood. So relish your tastebuds with some exquisite and different taste that’s on offer.
| Must Try Dishes and Drinks in Goa | |
| Fish Curry Rice | Prawn Balchão |
| Vindaloo | Xacuti |
| Bebinca | Sannas |
| Feni | Rava Fried Fish |
| Goan Sausages | Dodol |
13. Enjoy Birdwatching at the Bird Sanctuary
Although Goa was never a bird-watching destination like the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary or Darjeeling Hills, it has gained the interest of such travellers over the years. One of the best places to enjoy this amazing activity in Goa is the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on the western side of Chorao Island along the River Mandovi.
There are approximately 473 species of birds that you can spot on your visit. In fact, travellers have also spotted some migratory birds here. From Black Kite to Blue-tailed Bee-eater, this place is a paradise you would not want to leave.
| Popular bird species you get to watch |
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| Apt time for birdwatching | Early Mornings |
| The best time to visit | October to March |
| Ways of exploring the sanctuary |
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| Other wildlife to explore |
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14. Explore the Latin Quarter of Fontainhas
The Latin Quarter of Fontainhas is located in Panaji. It is a historic and vibrant neighbourhood known for its Portuguese-inspired architecture, colourful buildings, narrow winding lanes, and artistic vibe. Fontainhas is also a UNESCO heritage zone. Fontainhas offers visitors a delightful glimpse into Goa’s colonial past, helping them experience the rich cultural fusion of Indian and Portuguese traditions.
Conclusion
Goa offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every traveller. Its scenic landscapes, rich heritage, and welcoming atmosphere create unforgettable memories. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, Goa captivates visitors, leaving them eager to return and explore more. Make sure you pick up the ones that we have mentioned.
Read Also: Best time to visit Goa | Best Holiday destinations in India
