1. Panaji
Located on the banks of Mandovi river, Panaji, the capital of Goa, is a picturesque land with spectacular views to offer. The historical significance and serenity add magic to the air. Influences of Portuguese are still evident. Goa Medical College in Panaji, which was built by Portuguese, is the first ever medical school in India and it also ranks amongst the oldest medical colleges in the whole of Asia. Here are the top destinations in Panaji.
- Old Goa
- Reis Magos Fort
- Fort Aguada
- 18th June Road
- Goa Archaeological Museum
- Secretariat
- Dona Paula Beach
- Miramar Beach
- Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
- Panjim Heritage Walk
- Goa State Museum
- Idalcao
- The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
- Shanta Durga Temple
- Jama Masjid
2. Vasco Da Gama
Founded in 1543 by Portuguese, Vasco Da Gama has evolved into an important industrial center in Goa. This largest city in Goa is named after Vasco Da Gama, the famous Portuguese explorer. To have an insight in to the culture and lifestyle of Goa, you need to visit this city. Here are some important tourist destinations.
- Bogmalo Beach
- Velsao Beach
- Mormugao Port
- Pilot Point
- Goa Kayaking-Day Tour
- Japanese Garden
- Zuari River
- Naval Aviation Museum
3. Calangute
Calangute, situated in the north of Goa, is an excellent destination to stretch and rejuvenate your tired spirits. Calangute beach, which had earlier witnessed the dominant presence of hippies, greets you to enjoy the brilliant beauty of the land. Such is its beauty that nature lovers consider this a heaven on earth. Here are the leading destinations you need to visit on your tour.
- Calangute Beach
- Baga Beach
- Se Cathedral
- Aguada Fort
- St. Alex Church
- Medicinal Springs
- Baga Retreat House
4. Mapusa
If the beaches attracted you here, you would love Mapusa, which is closer to the most popular beaches in Goa. The weekly market in Mapusa set up every Friday is famous as you can find a wide range of products sold here. Here are some top tourist destinations in Mapusa.
- Kalacha Beach
- Mascarenhas Mansion
- Arpora
- Aldona
- Chapora Fort
- Sri Kalika Temple
- Mapusa Friday Bazaar
- Basilica of Bom Jesus
5. Margao
Margao – the oldest city in Goa is also the second largest city in the land. It is also the commercial center in Goa. It was earlier known as Madgaon before the Portuguese colonization. This is an important religious center in Goa with many places of worship. Given below are some of the top tourist attractions in Margao.
- Canopy Goa
- Colva Beach
- Loutolim
- Caves of Aquem
- Velsao Beach
- Town Square
- Monte Hill
- Jorge Barreto Park
- Colonial Style Villas
Goa has many more beautiful destinations. Beaches, ancient monuments and a lot more that deserve mention are left out owing to the limited time I happened to spend there. I would be glad to hear about more tourist attractions in Goa. Suggestions are most welcome.
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