India’s coastal state of Goa is known for its sandy beaches and lively party scene, but there’s much more to this tiny state than meets the eye. Many of the best things to do in Goa don’t involve beaches, from the UNESCO-listed churches of Old Goa—which were built when the state was under Portuguese rule—to the massive cascades at Dudhsagar Falls. Goan cuisine is not to be missed, and if you’re a fan of fresh seafood, you’ll find plenty to keep your belly full.
Goa’s seasons are distinctly different. Winter is tourist season, and temperatures reach up to 88°F (32°C) from November to February (though the heat is, thankfully, softened by cooling breezes). December and January are the busiest months, full of beach parties and music events. For a calmer vibe, visit before Christmas or in February. You can also visit in March, before the summer heat intensifies, or in October, when the monsoons have ended and everything is gorgeously green.
Goa’s heat can make walking long distances challenging, so cabs and tuk-tuks (known as auto-rickshaws) are the best way to get around. You’ll find both around tourist hotspots, and they are ideal for trips around town, sightseeing excursions, and forays to far-off beaches. Negotiate a price before setting off. For fun but slow journeys, catch one of the buses that rumble along the coastal roads and enjoy the traditional Goan music on board as you go.
Just north of Ponda, you’ll find the Butterfly Conservatory of Goa, a peaceful garden created as a haven for the region’s exotic lepidoptera. Run by local nature enthusiasts, this gorgeous spot has forest trails where you can walk among clouds of delicate, brightly colored insects and learn about their lifecycle and feeding habits—a delight for wildlife lovers. Book a guided tour or hire a cab to get there: the park opens daily and charges a modest entrance fee.
Local Currency Indian Rupee (₹) | Time Zone IST (UTC +5) | Country Code +91 | Language(s) Gujarati | Attractions 19 | Tours 259 | Reviews 7,381 |
Goa is a byword for golden sands and hot sunshine. Long beaches like Baga and Anjuna, as well as numerous smaller bays, attract heat-seeking travelers, especially during October-May. These lures, combined with the state’s psychedelic beach parties, Portuguese colonial heritage, spicy cuisine, and laid-back lifestyle, make it India’s top tourist destination.
...MoreBlissing out on sun-soaked sands is what Goa’s about, so start with that. Then, tour its peeling colonial churches, browse a flea market—Anjuna tops the list—see the crashing Dudhsagar Falls, savor fish curry or seafood at a sandside shack; and let loose at a beach party or swish nightclub.
...MoreYes, for a rapid beach-based break in tropical climes. It’s enough for two days on the sands, watersports like snorkeling or kayaking; and to hit a bazaar or late-night beach party. However, consider bolting on extra days to better discover the state’s colonial architecture, wildlife, and natural wonders like Dudhsagar Falls.
...MoreIf you’re planning to flop in the sun, avoid Goa’s monsoon season, when rains drench the coast and many resorts shut. Also, give beaches without lifeguards or flags a miss, as Goa’s seas mask strong currents. Female travelers, meanwhile, should probably not walk alone in isolated places or beaches after dark.
...MoreDecember, January, or February depending on the vacation you want. Visit in December for a blast of full-on, high-season Goa: the days are sunny and balmy, and party, festival, and bazaar calendars are packed. January and February also bring hot-but-comfortable climes, but with fewer crowds and slightly cheaper hotel rates.
...MoreYes, although Goa is probably better for families with older children and those wanting to explore away from the sands, especially as many beaches have choppy seas. Family adventures and attractions come thick and fast here: think spice plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, colonial forts, dolphin-spotting cruises, waterparks, and go-karting among others.
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