What should tourists do in Goa? Useful information about holidays in Goa

The Goan coast looks like a real paradise for travelers on the avenues. At the same time, there are enough dangers here and there are subtleties that need to be studied before the trip. You cannot ignore the flora and fauna: for example, are sharks or snakes dangerous in Goa?

The burning question is, what do you need to travel to Goa? What facts and holidays deserve special attention? And, of course, purely practical issues: tips, taxis in Goa, illnesses, medicines, sockets and the right to drive the ubiquitous scooter.

Plants in Goa

The coast on which the former Portuguese colony is located is covered with tropical jungle. The vegetation is lush and colorful. Towards the end of the season, it dries up, but does not lose its attractiveness. There are several spice plantations and national parks, where you can see not only birds and animals, but also a rich flora.

Tourists are attracted by the thickets of banyan trees and the impressive juxtaposition of tropical palms and vines with assorted conifers in Goa.

Holidays in Goa

When going to the former Portuguese colony, you need to be prepared that the holidays in Goa are celebrated on an enchanting scale. Hindu rituals intricately intertwined with medieval Catholic traditions and showed the world endless carnivals and processions.

Noisy processions are accompanied by installations of images and sculptures of deities, saints, and talismans. Fresh flowers, fire shows and paints are a must. It is necessary to go to the holidays in clothes that you don’t mind. Take an old T-shirt - it will be completely covered or filled with paint.

What you need for a trip to Goa

It is impossible to give comprehensive advice to tourists in Goa. Travelers are different, everyone has their own needs and characteristics. If you have money, problems that arise can be solved locally, but a supply of first aid medications should be on hand.

What medications to take to Goa

Difficulties of acclimatization are solved in Goan pharmacies. Usually there is an exhaustive list of medicines made in India, which are dispensed on the recommendation of a doctor. It is much more important to take emergency supplies with you:

1. Antihistamines. Medicines must be carried with you. In case you suddenly develop a food allergy to some spices or you are exposed to jellyfish.
2. Painkillers and antispasmodics. No-spa or citramon should be on hand.
3. Disinfectants: iodine, peroxide, brilliant green. Better in special pencils.

If there are children on the trip, the list of medications to take is longer. Antipyretic and dyspeptic drugs are definitely added.

Reviews about Goa insist that you need to use high-sensitivity sunscreens while traveling. But you can buy them locally.

How much money to take with you to Goa

Everyone calculates their own budget. A complete vacation in Goa for one traveler here is enough for $800–1000 per month, provided that you are not the king of glamorous parties and have not decided to provide work for all the taxis in Goa. Having a reserve, you can expand the program and look at neighboring states or manage them in your own way.

When paying for a trip to a tour operator, ask separately how much the fuel surcharge is and whether it is included in the price of the trip. Otherwise, there will be an unpleasant surprise before departure - additional expenses or cancellation of the trip with large losses. Fuel surcharge can be $50–$75.

What do people wear in Goa?

Reviews about Goa are full of the word “shanti”. This is an indescribable atmosphere of absolute calm and joy that permeates everything around. Therefore, you shouldn’t be surprised: tourists come here in all sorts of clothes. Considering that the season on the coast is eternal summer, you can take with you:

• swimwear;
• loose, long-sleeved shirts;
• shorts;
• hats.

Glamorous exits are accepted only in south Goa, and even then night life It’s not particularly popular there and any dress code is acceptable.

Experienced travelers do not take outerwear with them at all, but buy what they need in the markets - the price/quality ratio allows it. In terms of dollars, it's not very expensive.

Attention: Women, even when accompanied by their stronger half, should not neglect the basic rules of decency and appear dressed in public places. Swimsuits, transparent tunics and minis are best left for the beaches.

Dangers for tourists in Goa

Unpleasant and downright dangerous situations are possible everywhere. There are many rumors about Goa: sharks, snakes, stingrays, poisonous jellyfish, tsunamis and all kinds of tropical misfortunes in the form of diseases. Although more injuries are suffered by tourists who inadvertently hid under coconut trees during the wind or decided that they knew everything about Indian roads.

Snakes in Goa

When traveling to India, you need to be mentally prepared for meeting animals. Snakes in Goa are an unpleasant but inevitable phenomenon. There are marine and land species here. On the coast and in nearby waters, tourists are interested in marine ones. However, there are not many of them and they swim far from the shore. Indian fishermen fearlessly pick up snakes and assure them that they are not poisonous. Reviews from tourists periodically frighten with fear-inspiring photographs, but not a single case of death from an encounter is reported.

Sharks in Goa

Sharks are also considered a danger in Goa. However, they, like snakes, do not swim close to the shore. The obstacles are strong currents and natural instincts, forcing them to stay away from noise and tourists. They are active at night. They are found mainly on fish market stalls. Judging by the reviews, there are no cases of attacks on tourists at all. Schools of dolphins often swim to the shore.

Diseases in Goa

The tropics and unsanitary conditions in Goa pose a threat of intestinal infections - they develop here literally at lightning speed. What do you need to know? Maintain good hygiene. The rest can be done even without vaccinations. But insurance in case of force majeure circumstances must be taken out. When faced with jellyfish or injuries, you will understand that it was not superfluous.

Tsunami in Goa

The west coast of India lies in a relatively calm zone where the threat of tsunamis and tectonic instability is low. The last tsunami was recorded in 2004. The consequences were minor.

What you need to know about tsunamis: to disperse high wave deep water is required, approaching directly to the shore. Coastline in Goa it is wide and flat. A tsunami has no chance.

The smallest state of India and a former Portuguese colony is interesting due to many features:

1. The wide coastline stretches for almost 100 km. The north will provide you with a lot of impressions and relatively affordable prices. The south will delight you with peace and quiet. To find your Goa, you need to travel around it completely.
2. Friendly Indians speaking a striking mixture of Konkani, Porto and English. The set is not complete without Russian and German. Therefore, for 100% understanding you will have to master sign language.
3. Left side traffic. The roads where they exist are narrow and bad. Rules are a relative concept. Traffic is often chaotic. Most participants prefer scooters and bikes.
4. Cows and dogs. It is not customary to chase them or offend them in any other way. Cows are sacred animals.
5. The sunrise and sunset in Goa are mesmerizing with their beauty and transience. In no more than half an hour, night comes to replace day and vice versa.
6. Hindus have a special place in cleanliness. And not in the actual best place. Garbage bins and landfills are on every corner, and intestinal infections await in the most unexpected places. Carry alcohol wipes with you.
7. Attractions. In addition to the stunning richness of the natural landscape, Goa has many Hindu and Catholic temples.

Frequently asked questions and answers

What can you encounter in Goa?

The first thing an inexperienced traveler will have to deal with is a taxi in Goa. Getting to know cunning and often boorish owners of cars and licenses discourages you from using their services for a long time. Meanwhile, the secret of mutually beneficial relationships is the rule of always bargaining and firmly, but benevolently, refusing the imposed service. Other issues can be easily resolved.

How much do you tip in Goa?

According to reviews, the standard tip is about 10–20 rupees. It is customary to leave them for any services. Starting from the airport, you are literally attacked local residents in a sincere desire to help with things. Next - the maids. It is not customary to leave a standard dollar on a bed in hotels below 4 stars.

Even the colorful Goans who enterprisingly sell various small items on the beach are much more willing to pose for money. In restaurants they leave about 5% of the bill.

What outlets are there in Goa?

Tourists recommend taking 2-3 tees with them to India, preferably with grounding. They will allow you to safely use electrical networks. The voltage is the same as ours - 220, but the sockets are often loose and it can be difficult to fix the plug in them. Standard used: C,D,M. The first is for regular and Euro plugs without grounding.

If the outlet does not work, it may be turned off - the toggle switch is usually located at the entrance to the room.

Where is it safe to exchange dollars in Goa?

Of course, it is best to change money at official institutions marked Exchange. They exchange dollars upon arrival, in hotels, in special bureaus and banks. But these are classic safe options. This inscription can be found in shops and shops.

Less safe options are from taxi drivers, in random shops or from hand. Goans will willingly exchange dollars, but the safety of large sums will be questionable. Although reviews of Goa say that the criminal situation is strictly regulated by religious dogma - you cannot take someone else’s. Therefore, Indians limit themselves to scams of various scales: they inflate prices and cheat.

Do you need a scooter license in Goa?

Taxi in Goa is not the last means of transportation. Having looked closely, tourists switch to scooters and bikes. Officially, you must have an international license with category “A”. Unofficially, other solutions are possible. When renting, documents are not required, and if you are stopped by valiant police officers, then know: corruption in India is also a tourist attraction. Bargain.

Before your trip, you need to know in advance what you cannot bring from Goa. Tips for tourists who love expensive souvenirs: do not buy antiques. It requires certificates and a lot of permits. In addition, you cannot export:

1. Indian currency.
2. Precious metals in ingots.
3. Representatives of local flora and living fauna.
4. Fishing items: feathers, fur, skins.

The former Portuguese colony in India attracts with its picturesque nature and no less vivid impressions of the original culture and its bearers. Before your trip, you should carefully study all available information and reviews about Goa.

TOURISTS' ANSWERS:

Holidays in Goa are becoming more and more popular every year among Russian-speaking tourists. New charters are appearing, which has a positive effect on the cost of air travel for tourists. More and more people dream of visiting Goa - the birthplace of hippies, the land of endless beautiful beaches, freedom of spirit and morals.

What features of the resort and the mentality of the local residents need to be taken into account so that a holiday in Goa leaves only pleasant, positive memories?

First of all, you need to correctly perceive the behavior of local residents, which sometimes may seem, to put it mildly, unusual. You need to be prepared for the joyful “Hello” that will sound from everywhere and almost always. Children will add to this greeting by accompanying you - unusual white people - for a couple of meters with requests to be photographed and other, more material options. You need to react to all this calmly and kindly, and it is enough to respond to all requests simply with a smile. Indians are open and friendly, they respond to friendliness and good attitude in the same way, but intensified several times, but they react very poorly to aggression, negativity and rudeness and can respond in kind.

Most of the Goan population speaks fluent English. English is a compulsory subject in schools, and it is obvious that the subject is taught well, since children over eight years of age who go to school, as a rule, speak fluent English. Of course, the staff of hotels, cafes, and restaurants speak English. But even if your English is worse than that of Indian schoolchildren, it doesn’t matter. In Goa, the locals already speak Russian, especially the merchants, who will shower you with compliments like “unearthly beauty.” Most cafes and restaurants will offer menus in Russian, and massage parlors and travel agencies will offer Russian-language descriptions of services. Posts and message boards in Goa are full of texts about renting houses, renting scooters and learning to drive, haircuts, manicures and other resort services. In what language? Of course, in their native language, and not in their native language for Indians.

You don’t have to worry about communication back home in Goa either; most cafes offer free Wi-Fi, and every village has an Internet cafe. If you need the Internet constantly, then you can use telephone Internet, but its quality is very low. An alternative is to purchase a 3G modem, it costs about thirty dollars. It is most profitable to call home using local communications, for example, from the most popular companies in India such as “Idea” and “Vodafon”, a minute of conversation with Russia will cost only four Indian rupees (1 dollar = 60 rupees), this is much cheaper, than using a roaming service or travel packages such as “Travel SIM” or “Goodline”.

Indian men may pay increased attention to Slavic beauties, especially if they are more naked than dressed. As a rule, this is in the nature of playful, harmless flirting. If girls accept signs of attention, and, moreover, show hope for continuing the relationship, then in this case you should be prepared for persistence, which few Russian men are capable of. If a girl left her phone number to an Indian macho, she can be sure that from now on he will call and receive romantic SMS constantly, at any time of the day or night.

The crime rate in Goa is not high, but you still need to take care of your belongings. It is extremely rare, but property thefts from hotel rooms and houses do occur, so valuables should still be stored in a safe. As for attacks on tourists, this can happen somewhere in remote parts of India, but in Goa it is unlikely.

What should you be wary of in Goa? A natural disaster that can be dangerous to humans.

It is highly not recommended to make long swims (however, the vigilant security guards on the beach will not allow you to do this). You should not be in the sea after dark, as there is a risk of being struck by an electric stingray or other sea creatures that become active at night. It is very advisable to look at your feet, especially if there is thick grass and vegetation under your feet, and evening has come. The meeting of a man and a snake in Goa is very rare, but there are snakes here. What do tourists suffer most from in Goa? From the consequences of driving scooters and bikes, the operation of which seems very simple to tourists, but, unfortunately, practice sometimes proves the opposite. To be honest, the sale of soft drugs is widespread in Goa, and a guy with the words “hashish” will approach you on the beach on the first day of your stay in Goa. If you have entered into commodity-money relations with him, then remember - you have already violated the laws of India, with all the ensuing consequences that may arise. And in Goa it is customary to bargain, always and everywhere - this rule of Asian communication is very relevant at the resort. During the bargaining process, prices must be reduced by 3-5 times, and sometimes more. In Goa, they bargain in markets, in shops, with police officers on the roads and even with officials.

Is the answer helpful?

For some reason, India evokes the same type of reaction in many people: no, we won’t go there, you can get poisoned there, get malaria, and generally suffer from who knows what. But Goa, nevertheless, is a more prosperous and safe part of India, where it is unlikely that a malaria mosquito can bite. And so that your vacation on the ocean is not overshadowed by troubles, you just need to follow basic safety measures - maybe a little more than in another country.

Health

Vaccinations are not at all necessary if you are going to spend time exclusively in Goa, without traveling into the interior of the country. Just don’t drink tap water or brush your teeth with it, use disinfectant sprays and wipes more often, don’t drink drinks with ice, don’t buy ice cream on the street, don’t buy cut fruits, give preference to those with peels and wash them with bottled water. Be careful where you plan to eat. Don't buy food on the streets - yes, the flavors are delicious, but basic hygiene is unlikely to be observed here.

On the beach

Absolutely standard rules on any body of water: don’t swim too far (besides, you won’t find lifeguards on the beaches of Goa), don’t get into the water drunk, don’t sit in the open sun for a long time (in my opinion, in India the sun is so strong that it’s better to sunbathe under umbrellas – the tan will still be intense), use sunscreen with a protection factor of 25, cover your head and drink as much water as possible.

Transport

If you decide to move around the state on a rented moped, then the first thing you should remember is that the traffic here is on the left, and they forget to use turn signals, warning any action by signaling the horns. You should definitely wear a helmet - in addition to protecting your health, a helmet will also help save your money when meeting with the police. If you have no experience riding two-wheeled vehicles before, it is better to ride without a passenger. When renting a moped, be sure to check the brakes. And, yes, only drive when sober.

Theft

Goa is not one of the most crime-prone places on the globe, but, of course, you should remember basic safety rules. Do not leave things unattended when leaving your hotel room or rented house, close all windows and doors, and do not leave things on balconies. By the way, in addition to people, a monkey can rob you in Goa. For example, one little rascal tried to get money out of me - they can’t exchange it for glasses and jewelry anymore, so there’s only one piece of advice - don’t throw your things anywhere, even if there are no people around.

Fraud

With fraud and deception, things are more complicated. Not because Indians are fundamentally dishonest people, but simply because this is the custom in many tourist regions: to consider tourists as a bag of money, from which you simply need to pinch off at least a piece. The most popular ways to “take” money from vacationers include:

Calculation. Check the change received in stores and in taxis, bills in shakes or cafes; if you buy several goods in one place, recalculate the total amount. Point out the mistake, the difference will be returned without any problems, no one will argue or argue with you;

Payment for sunbeds upon check-in. In general, if you buy something at a beach cafe called Shake, you get a free sunbed for the whole day. But particularly thoughtful shake workers may offer to pay extra for the sunbed;

Overpriced goods. In India, goods produced industrially are labeled MRP - maximum retail price; selling above this price is prohibited, but nevertheless many try. What can we say about those products that do not have an MRP sticker: the price here can be inflated by 10 times. Therefore, do not rush to make purchases on the first day, look around, find out the prices. By the way, if on the beach they actively offer you drums or something similar, then you should know: the price for this is several times too high, you are simply being scammed.

Fraud when renting a moped or bike. When renting, you must carefully inspect the moped for damage. This must be done in the presence of the owner of the equipment. It's just perfect to photograph all the damage. All this is done so that an unscrupulous owner does not force you to pay for the repair of a moped that was not damaged by you.

Not filling up with gasoline. Everything here is very simple: the counter may not be reset after the previous refueling, so you pour less gasoline and pay more. The advice is the same as in the previous paragraph: look carefully, check everything.

In principle, neither me nor my friends have ever been tried to deceive in India. On the contrary, local residents always helped and advised. Which, probably, once again proves that fear has big eyes and not every waiter, salesman or taxi driver is a potential scammer.

Drugs

For some reason, many people imagine Goa as a resort where absolutely everything is available. Including prohibited drugs. Now, this is not true at all. The only difference from Russia is that bhang, the leaves and inflorescences of hemp, is legally sold there. Everything else is prohibited, purchase is fraught with imprisonment. There are also many salesmen-informants here who will happily hand you over to the police, and this is either an introduction to an Indian prison or a huge bribe. In general, do you need it?

Another point that worries especially girls traveling to India is how to dress and how safe it is here. India, of course, is not the Emirates or Egypt, I walked around calmly in short skirts and low-cut dresses - it’s hot, after all. No one said a word or looked askance. And German and English aunts spent time topless on the beaches - and no one paid attention to it either. But, probably, moderation is necessary in everything, and it’s not worth going completely naked, even in such a liberal country. Regarding personal safety: Indians are completely non-aggressive, and here the greater risk comes from drunken vacationers, although, naturally, everything depends on the behavior of the girl herself.

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Goa is the main resort of the country, as is often the case, completely different from the rest of India. The coastline here stretches for 110 km, forming 40 beautiful beaches. The state is divided into Northern and Southern parts, the border between which is Fort Aguada.

According to legend, the first European to set foot on the soil of Goa - the Portuguese Afonso Albuquerque - wanted to exclaim “Wow!”, but choked on port wine - he was so amazed by the view. The colonialists immediately made Old Goa the capital of Portuguese India, recognizing that the buildings they discovered were superior in beauty to all the temples of the previously subjugated East. By that time, the history of India had already spanned more than 4 thousand years. The small Indian state was under the yoke of Europeans for more than 400 years - until the mid-20th century, but it did not lose its identity, and it is difficult now to imagine a freer land.

People go to Goa mainly for beach holidays and Ayurveda - all diseases " big city“Here local massage therapists and other healers heal very quickly. Excursion program Goa is not rich; local attractions include the Dudhsagar waterfall, the village of Hampi with a bunch of ancient ruins, and active rest Boat trips and fishing are popular.

Hotels and guesthouses located in South Goa are considered expensive, and not only by Indian standards. They are popular among wealthy Europeans and wealthy Indians. The complete opposite is North Goa, relatively inexpensive, noisy and democratic - in the 60s. This place was chosen by hippies and stayed there. Today, the numerous villages of North Goa are inhabited mainly by party-goers from America and Europe, thanks to whom these regions have become famous throughout the world.

How to get to Goa

Goa became a tourist destination not so long ago, about 50 years ago, when hippies began to arrive on the coast along circuitous routes - by land and sea. In the mid-1960s. Dabolim Airport, the state's only air hub, opened its doors to international travelers. Since then, the Dabolim terminal annually receives about 200 thousand tourists from Europe and Russia. Travel time from Moscow is 7-9 hours, ticket prices start from 325 USD round trip.

Search flights to Goa

By train or bus

Some tourists travel to Goa by train. To do this, you need to fly to Mumbai and take the train to Goa there. This option is attractive because of its low cost - tickets to Mumbai are usually significantly cheaper than directly to Dabolim, even taking into account the cost of a train ticket. The train takes 9-13 hours, before buying a ticket, check if there is a stop at the station you need. There are also trains from Delhi to Goa, but you will have to spend about 30 hours on the road, and the savings are quite dubious.

Resorts of South Goa

• Dona Paula, Bogmalo, Colva, Benaulim, Palolem, Cavelossim, Mobor, Majorda.

What to try

Some tourists are cautious about Indian food, fearing the abundance of spices. However, Goan cuisine is as Europeanized as possible and least spicy compared to the rest of the country, so you can safely try it. However, while vacationing in Goa, it is really worth taking some precautions: drink water only from a bottle and do not buy food from street vendors.

Seafood is a kind of business card local cuisine. Crabs, shrimp, lobsters, clams, octopus, sharks, squid, lobsters, etc. Grilled or oven-baked, in coconut milk or semolina crust - the fish menu of even a small restaurant is usually quite varied. But people here don’t like to cook meat, especially beef, and in some places they don’t even know how to cook it, since the cow is a sacred animal for Hindus.

Pay attention to the Indian version of pilaf - “biryani”. The dish is prepared from rice and meat, chicken or seafood and is quite hot in taste due to the abundance of spices. When placing an order, do not forget to emphasize “note of spice.”

Another interesting local dish is “siesler”: a side dish and meat (or fish) are fried on foil or a frying pan and placed on cabbage leaves. The whole secret of the original taste is in the signature sauce, which each chef has his own.

Flatbreads in Goa are prepared so masterfully that they are often served as a main dish. Paratha flatbreads are baked with ghee and sour cream, and then served with spicy vegetables and spices. Garlic or cheese naan (other flatbreads), in turn, are inimitable when paired with tomato soup.

Many Indians adhere to the laws of Ayurveda - the “science of life”, according to which it is enough just to eat right to stay young and healthy for a long time.

Paneer tikka, a dish of traditional cheese rolled in spices and grilled, is also popular among tourists. Paneer can be prepared in dozens of other ways; this cheese is healthy and very popular in India.

Bean or lentil soup “dal” is also valued by tourists for its aroma and unique taste. This vegetarian dish, flavored with herbs and spices, is a daily food for most Hindus.

Most Indians are vegetarians; in some restaurants and cafes (especially for locals) there are no meat dishes at all, and local chefs have no equal in the art of preparing vegetables. Try sabji, a mixed vegetable flavored with spices.

Local desserts may seem too sweet, but they are definitely worth a try. Burfi, a milk fudge that may contain berries, coconut, nuts, saffron, rose water and other ingredients, has a very delicate taste.

Cafes and restaurants in Goa

There are cafes and restaurants at every turn in Goa - they love and know how to cook delicious food. Shekis are especially popular among tourists - tiny shacks that line the beaches during the tourist season. These are local fast food restaurants - there is not much choice of dishes, but everything is cheap and tasty.

Shek food can be ordered directly to the beach lounger, and the prices in such establishments are very affordable - soup costs about 120-150 INR, shrimp - from 400 INR, cooked shark will cost 700-800 INR. For drinks - juices and smoothies (very tasty, by the way) - you will pay about 100-120 INR. It may seem that cooking conditions in Shek are quite unsanitary, but complaints about stomach problems are rare here. Each owner of the outlet values ​​​​his reputation, and rumors about stale shrimp and dirty plates spread along the coast very quickly.

Restaurants in Goa delight with variety: they serve literally everything - from Indian curries to bloody schnitzels. However, it is better to give preference to local cuisine; local chefs do it best, although there are also quite a lot of Italians with pizzerias here.

The average bill in a regular Goan restaurant is 1200-1600 INR; a dinner with alcohol for two will cost from 2000 INR.

Best photos of Goa

Entertainment and attractions

Old Goa

The city of Old Goa, built by the Portuguese colonialists in the early 16th century, is one of the most visited places in the state. First of all, it is famous for its architecture - over the centuries, Europeans built majestic cathedrals here, which are now included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Particular attention of tourists and pilgrims is attracted by St. Catherine's Cathedral - the largest catholic church in India and one of the largest in Asia. Here is the chapel of the Miraculous “growing” Cross, which was carved by a local shepherd in the 17th century. According to legend, the Savior appeared to the shepherd on this crucifix, after which the monks decided to erect a chapel around the cross. And it miraculously increased during construction to the size of the Calvary cross. They say the relic grows to this day, heals the sick and grants wishes.

The Goa Archaeological Museum is part of the complex of St. Catherine's Cathedral; it is located in the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Each of the museum's galleries is dedicated to a different historical period of the state. The museum exhibits both artifacts from prehistoric times, as well as objects from the Middle Ages and modern times.

The Basilica of the Merciful Jesus (Bon Jesus) in Old Goa is also a center of Catholic pilgrimage, as the relics of the Spanish missionary Francis Xavier are kept here. During the three years he spent in southern India, the preacher built about 40 temples, and after his death he was canonized and received the status of patron of Goa.

The current Church of St. Cajetan is considered one of the most beautiful and memorable temples of Old Goa. The building has been restored, so appearance The temple is really impressive. In it you will see a wooden platform covering an old well. According to some historians, this well is the only thing that remains of an ancient Hindu temple that once existed on this site.

Fortress buildings

As you know, Goa was under the influence of European expansion for a long time; Portugal recognized Indian sovereignty over the state only at the end of the last century. In an effort to strengthen their positions, the colonialists built many forts in Goa. Today these are dilapidated fortress walls, but the views offered to tourists are exciting. It is strange to see silent military cities and cannons entangled in vines next to serene beaches.

The impregnable Aguada Fortress, located on the outskirts of Candolim Beach, is considered one of the best preserved fortifications in Goa. The fort was built in the early 17th century and served as a bastion against the Germans and British. The most significant building in the fortress is an impressively sized lighthouse, which is no longer operational today.

Chapora Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1612; it has been in ruins since the late 19th century. You can climb to the fortress, which stands on a hill, from Vagator beach. Essentially, these are just the remains of walls - sand and stones, but the fortifications offer stunning views of the ocean. There is a tradition among tourists to spend the last evening of their stay in Goa here.

Korjum Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1705, is located a few kilometers from the Aldona settlement. It is in good condition - the loopholes are best preserved, a sign with a coat of arms is visible above the main entrance, and very close by is the Catholic altar, to which flowers and candles are still carried. Guides tell tourists about a girl named Ursula Lancastre, who wanted to serve at the fort so much that she dressed up as a man. After exposure, she managed to remain unpunished and even remained in the fortress, marrying the captain.

One of the most beautiful fortresses, Yashwantgad (Redi Fort) is located on the border of the states of Goa and Maharashtra, not far from Paradise Beach. The fort resembles an enchanted castle - powerful banyan trees and fancy flowers emerge from the loopholes, and the fortifications are permeated with vines. Pristine beauty nearby beach and absolute silence only intensify general impression an old fairy tale.

Reserves

The largest protected area in Goa is Bhagwan Mahavir. The sanctuary occupies an area of ​​240 km² on the border with the state of Karnataka on the slopes of the Western Ghats. "Bhagwan Mahavir" is inhabited by elephants, tigers, bears, leopards, porcupines, as well as a huge number of birds, reptiles and insects. The famous Dudhsagar Falls and the Mahadeva Temple, built in the 13th century, are located on its territory. This is the oldest surviving temple in the state; in February-March, Mahashivratri, the “great night of Shiva,” is celebrated here on a grand scale. Those who do not sleep during the holiday are promised material prosperity and a place in heaven in the sacred books.

The small but very popular Bandla Nature Reserve can be reached by taking a bus from Panaji and Margao. Its area is only 8 square meters. km, but there is something to see there. During your walk you will meet elephants, peacocks, wild boars and huge squirrels, but dangerous predators - leopards and panthers - live in fenced areas. To see them, you need to be patient.

In the Cotigao Nature Reserve, 12 km from Palolem, there are no dangerous cats, but colorful tropical birds and insects live. The area of ​​86 km² has good trails and two observation towers. Due to the proximity of rivers, the vegetation here is so lush that sunlight has difficulty penetrating through the thickets where hyenas, porcupines and bears roam.

Not far from the city of Valpoi there is a large reserve "Mhadei Wildlife" - the residence of Bengal tigers, it is also known as the "tiger corridor". This predator is considered the national animal of India. But finding it in its natural habitat is not so easy; more often than not, their appearance in Mhadei is recorded by cameras, not by people. From time to time, local authorities question the permanent residence of tigers in the reserve.

The Salima Ali Bird Sanctuary, located near Panaji on Chorao Island, is home to about four hundred species of birds. The Kingfisher Kingfisher is often found here. This little bird is a unique symbol of Goa; it even became the logo of a popular Indian beer. This fact misleads tourists; some are even sure that this bird bears the name of beer, and not vice versa.

Storks, ducks and herons also rest in the swamps of the reserve. Visitors can meet otters, jackals, crocodiles and even flying foxes.

On the Mhadei River there is one of the most beautiful sights of Goa - the Dudhsagar waterfall, whose waters fall from a height of 310 m.

The waterfall is most active during the rainy season, but getting there during this period is almost impossible.

India remains the world leader in spice production. Chili, cardamom, saffron, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, mustard, turmeric, asafoetida, etc. are grown here. On numerous plantations you can not only see how all these spices grow, but also be treated to a well-seasoned lunch, as well as receive individual advice Ayurvedic doctor about the benefits of specific herbs.

10 things to do in Goa

1. Go to an Ayurvedic doctor and get cured of any disease without taking pills.
2. Do yoga on the beach and realize that chakras are not a myth.
3. Find the head of Shiva on Vagator beach, take a photo with it and show off to the less fortunate.
4. Go to a Vedic astrologer and finally understand your purpose.
5. Get a temporary henna tattoo - mehendi - just before departure to surprise your family with a fancy pattern.
6. Go to the market in Arpora, learn how to bargain and buy a bunch of clothes for three times cheaper.
7. Order grilled shark for dinner at a ridiculous price, and then try all the Goan seafood.
8. Visit an elephant show, watch them play football, climb on one of them and let yourself be doused with water from their trunk.
9. Dance until the morning at a trance party.
10. Pet the local cow, if it’s not scary, and thus receive absolution.

Trans parties

Goa is the birthplace of the trance music genre of the same name (it’s for the sake of mega-parties that crowds of people from all over the globe flock here), and a blessed place where people for marijuana are first threatened with life imprisonment, and then they wag their fingers and are released for ten bucks.

There are official places where you can safely come after midnight and dance wildly until the morning (for example, Hill Top, where admission is free for “whites”). And there are mysterious semi-legal “parties” about which until the last moment nothing is known: where exactly they will take place and whether they will take place at all. It all depends on whether the organizers are able to reach an agreement with local authorities. But literally a quarter of an hour after receiving permission, any local child will know the exact place and time of the disco, not to mention taxi drivers and sari sellers.

Popular excursions in Goa

The following excursions are especially popular among tourists: “The Gold of Vasco da Gama”, a cruise on the “pirate” schooner “Visiting the Banderlogs”, an excursion to Mumbai, a two-day jeep excursion to the abandoned city of Hampi and “Explore Goa!” - an excursion for respectable white tourists through the crazy night Goa of hippies and ravers.

The state's most famous natural attraction, Dudhsagar Falls, is also in demand, as is the Spices and Crocodiles tour to the Savoy Spice Garden and a boat ride along the Kumbarhua Canal in search of these cute animals. Extreme lovers will enjoy the excursion “The Jungle Book - 1” (one-day excursion into the mountain jungle, rafting on the river on bamboo rafts, lunch, elephant rides), as well as “The Jungle Book - 2” (a two-day excursion combining the program “The Jungle Book - 1” with a walk to a waterfall, yoga lessons and accommodation in clay huts).

Goa for children

Warm sea and sandy beaches make Goa a great place to relax with children, the main thing is to choose clean area with developed infrastructure. In this regard, the resorts of the southern coast can be called more suitable - the northern states are much more crowded than in the south.

However, sun, sea and sand are not a guarantee have an interesting holiday. Goa has plenty of entertainment for children, including very young ones. Little ones will love a visit to the Butterfly Park at Pond. A great attraction for older kids is a walk to the dolphin habitats. School-age children will also be delighted by the local nature reserves, where rare animals and strange birds can be found. And a trip to an ancient dilapidated fortress, such as Fort Aguada, can be a real adventure for any “Jack Sparrow”.

These are old Hindu and Portuguese temples, these are the bright colors of the night market and an incredible palette of tastes in a plate of seafood generously seasoned with curry...

Goa is a state of delight, where whole families come “for the winter” or, having simply visited once, return again and again.

Weather

Goa - year-round resort, the air temperature here does not drop below +20 °C. There are three main seasons: summer, winter and monsoon (rainy season). Munsun begins in June and lasts until September, winter (tourist) lasts from late October to early April, summer - from May to September.

The best time to travel to Goa is in the months from October to March. The air temperature at this time ranges from +21 to +32 °C. At this time there is no stuffiness and sweltering heat, which begins in April.

Hotels

There are many hotels in Goa of various categories - from luxury hotel complexes with a huge territory to small hostels with a single proud star. “Stars” are very arbitrary and very different from European ones. In Goa, as in Thailand, most tourists stay in two or three star hotels.

Hotel Features

Expensive hotels with a large territory and a high level of service	A huge range of hotels - from small hostels to luxury boutique hotels. Prices for accommodation below, than in .
Most built on the first line(no closer than 250 m from the beach)	Most of the hotels are built across the road from the beach.
The hotels are located at a distance from the villages, all infrastructure is inside hotels.	Excellent infrastructure– there are restaurants, shops, markets near the hotels.
The hotel beaches are wide (there are fenced areas), the areas are cleaned, there are almost no locals.	The beaches are public, sunbeds and umbrellas are paid, many are local.
Entertainment outside the hotel almost not.	Many about discos, night bars, entertainment for every taste.

Resorts

The state of Goa is divided into three parts - Northern, Central and. They differ greatly from each other in the level of service and range of entertainment. counts respectable resort, where wealthy Europeans vacation; chosen by budget travelers and creative youth; Central Goa combines the properties of other parts of the state and is a major transport hub: there is an airport, railway station, port, and bus stations.

North Goa

A large spacious beach, many nightclubs and bars, and an interesting flea market.

The beach is spacious and there are several bars. In the evenings there are parties. The holiday is suitable for noisy companies and active youth. Located farthest from the airport.

Distance from the sea is 1.5 km. Many expensive comfortable hotels. Suitable for tourists with children.

A wide beach with volcanic sand, separated from the village by a river. A relatively quiet resort, suitable for families with children.

The oldest resort in all of Goa. Suitable for any type of holiday. The beach is wide, a river flows nearby.

Popular with creative youth. Known for its late-night parties. There are several beaches with rocky shores.

The most famous beach in all of Goa and the most popular resort. Wide range of hotels

Quiet resort with expensive hotels. The beach is sandy, wide, and the Portuguese fort of Aguada stands right on it. Located closest to the airport.

Located between two rivers. Accommodation for tourists is mainly in bungalows.

Calm resort with good infrastructure. Popular with Russian tourists.

A small quiet village with budget hotels and a clean beach.

Small village near the airport. Very clean beaches with white sand, mid-price hotels.

Large resort with spacious beaches and a good selection of hotels. Quiet place, suitable for relaxation.

A secluded village with a very good level of hotel service. The spacious, clean beach is suitable for families with children.

A popular resort with good infrastructure and budget hotels.

Popular resort. Suitable for holidays with small children. Located closest to the airport.

A resort with good infrastructure and expensive hotels. Surrounded on three sides by water.

One of the most beautiful beaches in all of Goa. Located farthest from the airport. One of the most expensive resorts.

Small village with beautiful beach. Very quiet resort, suitable for privacy lovers

Attractions

Tourists usually begin their acquaintance with Goa at Dabolim Airport in the city of Vasco da Gama. The city is named after the famous navigator. The Portuguese heritage is well preserved in this Indian state and tourists will always find something to see.

Both have their own set of attractions. Excursion routes are organized to all attractions; they are easily accessible from any corner of Goa.

For example, in Old Goa(city in) beautiful cathedrals, ruins of churches and narrow streets have been preserved. In Panaji, the capital of Goa, you should definitely wander through the old Fontainhas district and see the architectural complex of Largo da Igreja. The Portuguese forts of Aguada and Alorna are also at the top of the list of Goa attractions. The Aguada fortress is located on the outskirts of Candolim beach - after sunbathing and swimming, you can look at this ancient stronghold.

On Wednesdays and Fridays in Goa there are grandiose markets. On Friday you need to go to Mapusa to bargain and buy colorful items of clothing, souvenirs, painted plates, spices, incense and a lot of what your heart desires. There is a flea market in Anjuna - it opens every Wednesday early in the morning and bustles until sunset.

The largest Christian temple in Asia is the cathedral St. Catherine's Cathedral (Old Goa). The relics of the Baptist of Asia, Saint Francis, can be seen in the Basilica of Jesus, one of the most famous churches not only in Goa but in the whole of India.

The most popular excursions in Goa are in Savoy spice garden and to the waterfalls. Spice plantations are not only interesting, but also very educational, and also delicious, because every tourist is sure to be fed dishes generously seasoned with curry and aromatic herbs. There are a lot of spice plantations in Goa; Savoy is located 23 km from the state capital of Panaji. Dudhsagar Falls Throws down streams of water from a height of more than 300 meters! It is also called the “milk ocean” - for the white color of the water. The waterfall is located in the eastern part of Goa and can be reached in a few hours by bus.

In the Cotigao Nature Reserve you can wander through a multi-story jungle. The reserve is located 12 km from the beach in.

There are many centers in Goa Ayurveda, where you can create your own healing program with medicinal herbs, massage and drugs based on natural ingredients.

Transport

Most tourists rent bike and travel around the outskirts of the state. To rent, you will need to leave a deposit in foreign currency (from 60 to 200 dollars). A driver's license is rarely required. Traffic in Goa, as throughout India, is chaotic, so we recommend brushing up on your driving skills in advance and being extremely careful on the roads. There are almost no gas stations in Goa; gasoline can be bought secondhand at roadside stalls and shops (sold in regular water bottles).

Those who do not risk riding a bike in India use the services Taxi. Taxis are quite expensive, all areas are divided between taxi drivers. Almost no one has meters.

Another option for moving between Goa resorts is bus. This service is very developed in India; buses call even in the most remote villages. Travel there is very cheap (from 5 to 40 rupees), and locals enjoy using it. The fee depends on the distance of the trip. The buses are old, they have no air conditioning, and the windows are protected by bars (from monkeys).

There is no direct connection between the resorts of Goa; you need to go with a transfer at a bus station (in Mapusa, Panaji or Margao). The buses do not have numbers, the route is written in the local language, but conductors and drivers loudly announce the direction at the stops. By the way, there are no stops in the usual sense; the bus stops anywhere on demand. Bus intervals are on average once every 15 minutes.

A trip on an Indian bus is like an attraction - a bright old bus rushes through the jungle to Indian music, the conductor jokes with the passengers, women in bright saris laugh...

Goa bus stations

Souvenirs

Most of the souvenirs that tourists bring from their trips to Goa are ethnic. People often buy saris (national Indian women's clothing) and bloomers (loose pants), textiles (bed linen, bedspreads, towels), jewelry with gems, incense sticks, and henna. Spices, toothpaste with red pepper, and natural cosmetics from the Hymalaya brand would be a good souvenir. Sandalwood and ebony deity figurines start at $3.

Popular dishes include lamb stewed in milk with curry, meatballs in spicy yogurt, and chicken in orange sauce with herbs. famous for its abundance of vegetarian dishes, such as rice cakes and curried lentil dumplings (dosa and samba). Vegetables are served with curry and rice.

Seafood and fish are incredibly popular in Goa. The fish is fried over a fire, baked in dough, stewed in yogurt with curry... Try mailai - shrimp with the same curry and coconut. Dhai - curdled milk with spices - is a great refreshing drink in the heat. Alcohol is sold freely in Goa; local moonshine called “feni” is made here - this is fermented coconut and cashew juice.

Good to know

• All tourists fly to Dabolim Airport. The flight from Moscow takes approximately 7.5 hours.
• Goa time is 2.5 hours ahead of Moscow.
• The Indian dialect Konkani, Portuguese and English are spoken in Goa.
• Sockets in Goa are no different from Russian ones.
• The currency in Goa, as elsewhere in India, is the rupee. There are 100 paise in one rupee. In August 2017, the exchange rate of the rupee and the ruble was approximately the same: for 1 ruble they gave 1 rupee and 6 paise.
• From India to Russia, no more than 3 liters of alcohol per person over 18 years of age can be exported duty-free, up to 5 liters - with payment of a duty.
• Wash vegetables and fruits purchased at markets thoroughly. Drink only bottled water.

The Indian state of Goa is the Asian “Ibiza”, a place of relaxed relaxation, nightly parties, freedom and a sense of continuous celebration. Some foreigners are so inspired by this atmosphere that they move to Goa permanently. They can be seen along the coastline of Arambol and Palolem beaches, meditating on the sunset and doing blissful “doing nothing.”

But relaxation shouldn't be limited to just the beach and parties. The state has many striking colonial-era attractions and charming towns with Portuguese-style architecture. Old Goa is included in the UNESCO list and is a must visit. Goa also has several picturesque nature reserves. A walk through traditional markets, where interesting souvenirs and crafts from local craftsmen are sold, can diversify your vacation.

The best hotels and inns at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles/day

What to see and where to go in Goa?

The most interesting and Beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.

Panaji is the capital of the resort state of Goa. At first it was a small village, but after the residence of the Portuguese governor was moved here in the 18th century, the city began to actively develop. On the territory of Panaji there are still preserved monuments of colonial architecture of past centuries, which today are of historical interest. The population of the city, together with its suburbs, barely reaches 100 thousand people.

The old city quarter, where the houses of the descendants of the Portuguese colonialists are located. The main development of the area took place about 170 years ago after Panaji was declared the capital of Goa. The historical facades of Fontaines houses are painted in bright colors, which gives the area an interesting flavor. The houses are built in a mixture of Portuguese and traditional Indian architecture.

Anjuna is a small town on the coast of Goa, famous for its flea market. The bazaar appeared in the 60s. XX century at the height of the hippie era. It all started with representatives of this subculture gathering on one of the local beaches for round-the-clock singing and dancing. Sometimes they had to sell some of their things in order to get money for their further carefree existence. This is how the famous market in Anjuna appeared.

The market is located between the villages of Anjuna and Arpora. It is not just trade tents where you can buy interesting things and bright souvenirs. This is a whole authentic fair with a booth where people dance, sing, watch impromptu performances, eat and have fun. There are disco bars along the edges of the market, and a special stage for concerts and performances has been built in the central part.

The museum is adjacent to the Goa airport. By the way, the Dabolim air harbor itself is actively used by the Indian Air Force. The museum exhibits include European, Russian and American airplanes and helicopters of the last century. The collection is not very large, there are barely a dozen and a half copies, but this makes it no less interesting. All aircraft are located on an open-air site.

The state of Goa has very favorable climatic conditions, so spices are grown here on an industrial scale for the whole of India and for export to other countries. The spice plantations are a popular tourist attraction, with organized tours available. The fields are located near the town of Ponda, which is approximately 40 km away. from Panaji. Some plantations have a developed tourist infrastructure with restaurants, shops and hotels.

A 17th-century Portuguese basilica located in Old Goa. The main architectural style of the building is lush colonial baroque. The marble floor of the church is decorated with semi-precious stones, valuable paintings hang on the walls, and in the middle of the temple there is a 3-meter statue of Ignatius of Loyola, the Grand Master and founder of the Jesuit Order. The basilica is one of the main architectural attractions of Goa.

A large Catholic cathedral, which is the largest Christian temple in India. It was erected to commemorate the Portuguese victory in the Battle of Goa in 1510. This event coincided with the day of St. Catherine, so it was decided to lay the foundation for the cathedral and name it in honor of this saint. Construction was completed in 1619. The cathedral was built in the Portuguese Manueline architectural style.

The temple was built in the 17th century and is part of the complex of St. Catherine's Cathedral in Old Goa. The inside of the church is richly decorated with frescoes and decorated with wood and marble. It should be noted that the walls were painted by local craftsmen. First, they created images about the life of St. Francis, weaving characters from Indian mythology into the plot, which horrified the Portuguese king.

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, who, according to Hindu beliefs, is the wife of the god Shiva. The building was erected in the 18th century during the reign of Raja Chhatrapati Shahu. Temple complex consists of a main building and several side buildings. All buildings are painted a pleasant terracotta color. The last large-scale reconstruction of the temple was carried out in 1966.

The church is located in the center of Panaji, it was built in the middle of the 16th century. The building from the beginning of the 17th century has survived to this day, since the original building was destroyed as a result of constant wars for Goa. The architecture and interior decoration of the church are distinguished by grace and restraint. A system of stairs with figured railings that are in harmony with the church facade leads to the entrance to the temple.

The monastery complex was erected at the very beginning of the 17th century. The monastery existed until XIX century, after which it was abandoned due to the decision of the Portuguese government to dissolve religious orders. All the interior decoration and property of the monastery was transferred to other churches, sold or lost. In the middle of the 19th century, the main vault of the church fell, and by the 20th century the complex had finally turned into ruins.

An old Portuguese fortress, built in 1612 to protect the newly conquered lands from the encroachments of the Dutch. The fort consists of two parts. The lower one is located at the edge of the sea and served for defensive purposes. The upper one was engaged in servicing the fort garrison. Nowadays, there is a prison in the lower part; the remaining buildings of the fortress are open for free inspection.

The fort was built in 1550 (according to other sources - in 1490). At the beginning of the 18th century, the fortress managed to withstand the onslaught of the Marathas, who captured all the surrounding lands and were preparing to oust the Portuguese from their firmly occupied positions. Within the fort there was a garrison, an armory, a prison and underground storage facilities. During construction, the building was equipped with many secret passages. Today there is a museum on the territory of the fortification.

A natural park covering an area of ​​240 hectares. It is home to several popular attractions, such as the 12th-century Mahadeva Temple and India's largest waterfall, Dudhsagar. The reserve is home to panthers, leopards, bears, porcupines, gaurs, lynxes and other animals. A jeep safari is organized for tourists, during which you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes and watch the animals.

A small jungle reserve that looks more like a garden. Its area is only 8 km². Wild boars, bison, squirrels and bison live here. Some animals calmly walk around the territory, others live in enclosures. The reserve also houses a wide variety of birds. Tourists can take an elephant ride or admire the ruins of an ancient Hindu temple located within the park.

The reserve is located on the territory of mangrove swamps. About 400 species of birds live here, as well as crocodiles and jackals. During the winter period from October to March, the maximum concentration of birds is observed in Salim Ali, as many flocks fly here for the winter. You can observe the habits of birds from a special tower. During the excursion, tourists are transported on special boats.

A powerful waterfall 10 meters high, located in the northern part of Goa. At the foot of the cascading water jets a lake is formed, quite suitable for swimming. Near the waterfall there is an equipped observation deck, from where you can explore the picturesque surroundings. Not far from the stream is the temple of the god Rudreshwar, where Hindu funeral rituals are performed.

The caves are located near the Arvalem waterfall. It is believed that they arose during the period of the 5th-6th centuries. n. e. The cave walls contain Sanskrit inscriptions dating back to the 13th century. According to one version, they were cut through by ancient fans of the pagan cult. Later, the caves began to be used by adherents of Hinduism, who made inscriptions. Hundreds of monks could live in such cave temples.

The waterfall is the most visited natural attraction in the state of Goa. It is included in the program of almost all organized excursions. "Dudhsagar" translates to "sea of ​​milk". If you look closely, the foamy streams of water from afar really resemble milk. During the monsoon season, Dudhsagar is especially devastating, with its streams crashing into the deep lake at its base.

The beach is located in the southern part of Goa, which is considered calmer than the “party” northern part. The length of the coastline is about 3 km. Agonda has almost no developed tourist infrastructure; there are only residential bungalows and a few hotels. Olive turtles, a specially protected species in India, live and lay eggs on the beach. The place is perfect for a relaxing family holiday.

Palolem is considered the best beach in southern Goa, so it gets very crowded during the high season. The beach is located in a bay, so it has a convenient gentle slope into the sea. By Indian standards, the place is perfectly clean and there are almost no cows roaming freely, which indicates a good cleaning service. Along the beach there are bungalows, budget guest houses and more expensive hotels.

Arambol is located in the northern part of Goa. Unlike other beaches in this part of the state, there is no such large-scale development here. The coastline stretches for as much as 16 km, it is surrounded by picturesque cliffs and dense jungle. Arambol has a free, “bohemian” atmosphere; there are many colorful personalities here. Once upon a time, the beach was chosen by hippies; since then it has become a “home” for creative and unconventional people.

The casino is located on board cruise ship, standing on the Mondovi River. It is considered one of the largest in India and is the largest in Goa. There are 50 tables for playing poker, roulette, blackjack and 30 slot machines. The casino can also offer river walk and dinner in a good restaurant. You can even come here with children - there is a special entertainment area for them.

A popular night spot on the top of the Arpora hill, where all lovers of electronic music and dancing until the morning try to get there. The club is divided into two zones - a bar and a dance floor with a swimming pool. Famous Western DJs perform here quite often. Parties by the pool are especially popular, since on a stuffy Indian night there is a great desire to freshen up after energetic and tiring dancing.