What to see in South Goa: attractions and excursions. Map of Goa with attractions in Russian

Goa is the smallest of all Indian states. In terms of the number of attractions, it is difficult for it to compete with other, much larger regions of the country. However, there are plenty of people here too remarkable places, which are worth paying attention to.

First of all, the attractions of India in Goa include natural objects and nature reserves, which are sufficient even in such a small area. And while most of them are common to Goa and neighboring states (particularly Karnataka), some of them are specific to Goa.

This is the largest reserve in the state, occupying 240 square meters. km of territory. It is located on the slopes of the Western Ghats mountains, which are natural border of the states of Goa and Karnaka. This territory received the status of a reserve in 1969, and a little later, in 1978, its central part, occupying almost half of total area, became a National Park called Mollem.

Bhagwan Mahavir is interesting for his incredible diversity of vegetation and animals. We can thank the high average annual humidity for this. Frequent rains constantly replenish water sources, and they, in turn, make it possible to grow here a huge number of trees and shrubs. Moreover, their crowns are so tightly closed that grass cannot grow on the ground due to lack of light.

The fauna is also very widely represented. First of all, these are, of course, the kings of the local forests - leopards and bengal tigers. Of no less interest are the graceful Axis deer and a host of other smaller animals. An impressive number of varieties are presented and birds.

A jeep is the most optimal means of transportation around the territory. Only with this vehicle can you get to the architectural landmarks of the reserve - temples from the Kadamba dynasty and no less remarkable natural objects- Devil's Canyon, Tambdi Falls and Dudhsagar Falls.

One of the popular attractions in North Goa. The waterfall got its name from the color of its falling water, which appears white. Literally translated, its name sounds like this: “milk ocean.”

The total length of the waterfall, cascading down several rocky terraces, is 603 meters, and its height is 310 meters. Such impressive dimensions allowed it to be included in the hundred highest waterfalls in the world. Its water enters the purest mountain lake, in which you can swim.

The best time to visit Dudhsagar is the winter months, when it is not so hot and there are no monsoon rains.

Watch the video “Dudhsagar Waterfall”

This place is considered the smallest in Goa state. Its area is only 8 square meters. km. Due to its size, the Bondla Nature Reserve resembles a garden rather than the jungle in which it is located. However, this territory is tourist center state. Adding to the beauty are two rivers - Madkhel and Rangao - flowing here.

It is most popular among families with children, since in the reserve with close range you can look at various animals, some of which live in enclosures ( leopards, bison, bison and others), and some calmly stroll among the gawking tourists. Fans of even more exotic things can rent an elephant and ride it. True, it costs extra money.

In addition, the Bondla Nature Reserve is a paradise for ornithologists and bird lovers. There are a great variety of them here, including some unique ones, such as Indian peacock.

Another tourist site on the territory of the reserve was discovered during the construction of a zoo there. Builders stumbled upon something in the jungle Indian temple ruins, which contained stone slabs with Hindu deities carved on them. They were hidden in a temple lost in the jungle so that they would not be destroyed by the Portuguese inquisitors. Now the found slabs are kept in the Bondla Nature Reserve.

About 20 km from the administrative center of Goa - the city of Panaji - there is a small village of Priol. There is a very beautiful and most visited temple in the state - Mangesh. The Hindu god Mangeshi is one of the incarnations of the powerful god Shiva. The main shrine The temple is considered to be Linga Mangeshi, which is a stone-container of the divine essence, which was consecrated at one time by Brahma himself.

The temple building is a real work of art of Indian architects. It is difficult to name the main attraction of this religious building, because it is amazingly perfect everywhere. But still, its most beautiful buildings are considered to be the one standing at the gate seven-story white tower and graceful columns. In the main hall of the temple there are 19th century chandeliers of the finest workmanship, and the room itself can simultaneously accommodate 500 people. Near the main building is the oldest building of the complex - the temple pond.

The Mangesh Temple is active, in it special rituals - pujas - are held daily. Once a week, the main temple idol is carried through the streets of the village. Unfortunately, due to the inappropriate behavior of foreign tourists, they have recently stopped allowing visitors inside the temple. But even from the outside, looking at such a beautiful monument of Indian architecture is worth a lot.

On the northern bank at the mouth of the Tirakol River there is a military fortification - Fort Tirakol (in the local dialect Terekkhol). This is the northernmost part of the state of Goa. It was built by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsla- Raja Sawantwadi in the 17th century. The northern bank of the river was chosen for the fort due to the fact that from there it had an excellent view of the waters of the Arabian Sea and the nearby coast.

Inside the fort there was a chapel and barracks for the military unit that was on duty there. The armament consisted of 12 fortress cannons. But in 1746, the Portuguese, led by the Viceroy of India Pedro Miguel de Almeida, started a war against the Raja Maharaja. After a series of battles, including naval ones, the Maharajah lost the war, and the fort passed into the hands of the Portuguese, who almost 20 years later it was completely rebuilt.

Due to the advantageous position of the fortification, there was a constant struggle for its possession, and at times very bloody. In those wars, along with the people, the fort itself suffered greatly. True, it was quickly restored later. The Portuguese ruled until 1961, when the fort finally came under Indian mandate. The chapel inside Tiracol was eventually rebuilt into a full-fledged church, now bearing the name of St. Anthony.

IN given time The fort has been rebuilt into a cozy hotel, next to which is the northernmost beach in Goa.

The main attraction of South Goa are.

Of course, the listed objects do not end the list of interesting places in the state of Goa. Temples from pre-colonial times, Portuguese churches from the colonial era, Anjuna market, beaches and nature reserves... To list them all, you would have to write a whole book. But this is just the smallest Indian state. I would like to note that excursions are organized to all the sights of Goa, so getting there to see and remember for a lifetime is not difficult. All it takes is desire.

Sights of Goa photo

Below are some photos of the sights. Let's look and admire!

When coming to Goa, be sure to stock up on a map with attractions. The architectural heritage of colonial India, tropical nature, rich landscape, cities with an oriental flavor - everyone will find something to see in Goa with a tour or on their own. Plan your trips in advance because you will need a lot of time. In addition to local beauties, you can see the country with sightseeing tours.

Types of excursions

To visit the most beautiful corners of the state, you can use several excursion options:

1. Use pre-ordered from the agency organized trip. Both as part of a group and individually. Their services are provided by local operators and guides, travel agencies from whom you purchased your tour, as well as hotels.
2. Take the trip on your own. For a fee, you can take an old-timer from your compatriots as a guide. A great option would be to rent a taxi for the whole day. Taxi drivers are well aware of what to visit in Goa; any driver will be happy to show you interesting places. You can see the sights without outside help by renting a bike, and be sure to be armed with a guidebook.

Excursions in South Goa

The sights of southern Goa are a must-see, starting with the unofficial capital of the south - Margao. There is a huge market here. A sea of ​​impressions and shopping with an oriental flavor are guaranteed to you. Taking photographs of the sights of Goa is sometimes simply useless. It’s worth using a video camera in Margao: it has a special atmosphere and a whirlwind of bright colors.

There is an ethnographic museum not far from Margao. People call him "Big Foot". Huge exhibition under open air gives an idea not only of culture, but also of Indian life since the Middle Ages.

Geographically, it is in the southern part of Old Goa, a city whose architectural values ​​are included in the UNESCO heritage list.

Be sure to touch the history and the retro cars themselves. A themed museum with a decent collection a short drive from Margao. An equally interesting place is the Aviation Museum in Vasco da Gama.

Given the presence of a railway station from the city, you can quickly get to neighboring states to see the country. Tours from Margao often go to Hampi and Gokarna.

To travel along the coast, use Colva Road, which ends in Cavelossim. Picturesque beach will delight you with its proximity to the beautiful mouth of the Sal River. The coast of Cavelossim is favored by dolphins.

The southern direction will delight you with prehistoric petroglyphs and caves in Usgalimala.

Sights of North Goa

Sights of northern Goa is a rather relative concept. The legendary hippies left a great legacy that must be experienced and cannot always be seen. Although there are many quite tangible values ​​here.

Of what to see in North Goa, the following stand out:

• the forts of Aguada, Chapora and Redi;
• night market in Arpora and flea market in Anjuna;
• Kerkar gallery.

There is a Juice Center near Chapora Fort. In Goa, this is a real attraction that will give you the pleasure of amazing fruit juices.

In addition, in Vagator (Goa - north) you should definitely look at Shiva, whose face is simply carved in stone on the shore. Between Vagator and Anjuna there is an excellent vantage point - a high hill with views of the Chapora fort, the Indian Ocean and the tropical jungle. To see the real treasures of colonial architecture you will have to go south.

Whole Goa in one day

The state of Goa is the smallest state in India. It stretches for 100 km along the sea on the west side and mountains on the east. Despite the fact that excursions to Goa in one day are very popular, it is unlikely that you will not be able to see and understand the greatness of the sights. Although for review purposes this is best option. This way you can map out a route, and then come back and visit interesting places on your own.

Among the excursion routes designed for one day, it is necessary to highlight:

1. Trip to the spice plantations of Goa. In addition to elephant riding, you will definitely be offered to see the cathedrals in the jungle that are characteristic of Goa, as well as the spectacular Dudhsagar waterfall.
2. An interesting tour of cities and towns. See temples and churches in Vasco da Gama, Panaji, Old Goa. Plunge into the atmosphere of night markets. Look at the world famous beaches.
3. It will be interesting for a tourist to take a boat trip. You will be offered diving in the most interesting places and river rafting. A magnificent view of Fort Aguada, which demarcates the south of Goa and the north. Beautiful views with dolphins in the open sea.

Excursion routes differ in the south and north of Goa. In one day you can see the most interesting places in only one part of the state, and then go to another.

Cost of excursions season 2017-2018

A sightseeing tour of Goa costs on average between $40-100. The price can reach up to $400 depending on the departure location and route. You should not book a tour immediately after arrival. Look around and ask questions. The peculiarity of Indian pricing is to include a good premium for bargaining. Moreover, in respectable Cavelossim you will be charged 50% more interest than in democratic cities of the north.

What to see on your own

In fact, it is not at all necessary to take excursions to see the sights. Tourists recommend renting a bike, arming yourself with a guidebook and setting off to explore India on your own. It will definitely be cheaper and more interesting. Much more likely to take memorable photos. There is no problem with what to do in Goa: there are attractions even on the beaches.

Armed with the card you can:

1. Immerse yourself in meditation next to one of the waterfalls. The most majestic is Dudhsagar, but there is also Amboli, Surla, Jog falls.
2. See the reserves of Cotigao, Bondla, Bhagwan Mahavir, the Salim Ali bird sanctuary, the banyan thickets in Arambol and one of the spice plantations. To choose from: Tropical Spice, Pascoal, Sahakari.
3. Take photos of magnificent views of rivers, lakes and small islands nearby.
4. Visit museums located in cities and simply in the open air: rare cars near Margao, naval aviation in Bogmalo, as well as ethnography. Those who visit the car museum will boast not only photos, but also the experience of driving vintage vehicles.
5. Experience the history of medieval conquests in the dilapidated forts in Goa. They offer good views for photos. Fort Chapora, Aguada, Caba da Rama, Alorna, Redi fort, Bhimghat, Tiracol, Korjum, Reis Magos.

The most visited city of interest for excursions is Old Goa. Architectural objects are included in the list of significant attractions of India and the world. The Cathedral of St. Catherine is of particular value. In Goa, all UNESCO heritage sites are located in the old city.

Must-sees in Goa

Even if you don't make it to Redi Fort or Chapora Fort, Aguada Fort in Goa is a mecca for all tourists that lies at the junction of north and south. In addition, at least when passing from Dabolim, you need to see Vasco da Gama - the largest city, by the standards of the state.

It would be a crime to visit here and not see:

1. Basilica of Bom Jesus and St. Catherine in Old Goa.
2. Dudhsagar waterfall.
3. Dilapidated forts.
4. Spice plantations.
5. Markets.

If you are staying in the north, be sure to drive along the coastline along the beaches of the south. The landscape of Varka or Cavelossim is different from Anjuna or Vagator. This is also one of the attractions of the coast.

Map of Goa with attractions in Russian

At independent travel You can use a map with marked attractions.

Of course, it shows that most of the architectural monuments are located in the south of the region. However, the bustling north will provide an opportunity to enjoy the spirit of freedom and an eclectic mix of cultures.

You can stop, say, in Cavelossim, see all the historical and natural attractions, but still not understand what the spirit of Goa is.

The peculiarity of Goa is that, going deeper into the jungle, you can almost certainly see small hindu temples, you will stumble upon picturesque lakes and impenetrable tropical thickets. To do this, it is not at all necessary to go on long excursions.

Arriving in Goa, any vacationer will be able to find something to their liking, and this “something” will not hit the wallet too hard. India is a unique country with its own traditions, laws and completely different regions. Any tourist coming here will be able to find something suitable for themselves. These may be landmarks, historical sites or beaches with numerous activities.

Goa is one of the Indian states most popular among holidaymakers.

The state is divided into two parts: North and South Goa. South Goa is ideal for a beach holiday, but North Goa is suitable for city lovers with an average income. But there are a lot of attractions here and there, let’s get to know some of them.

Dudhsagar

This is one of the largest waterfalls in India, located in the foothills of the Ghats, near Panaji. A huge waterfall surrounded by virgin forest will not leave anyone indifferent. The best time to come here is from November to February when the climate is pleasant and easily tolerated. In summer, the territory of the waterfall, and the entire state, is very hot and humid from the monsoon rains.

You can get to Dudhsagar by railway to the station closest to the park. But you will have to walk another 6 kilometers to get to your destination. This distance can be covered by jeep, then the entire journey will take no more than an hour. And now you are there. has a height of more than 300 meters. The large number of white foamy splashes creates the illusion that the entire body of water has a strange whitish tint.

There is a legend about a princess who loved to swim in the local lake. After taking baths, she drank milk from a golden jug. One day, after bathing, the girl, without having time to get dressed, decided to drink milk, but suddenly noticed a man watching her from behind a tree. She had to pour the entire jug into the lake in order to somehow hide her nakedness. According to legend, it was from these milky streams that a waterfall was formed, the name of which translates as “milk ocean.”

At the base there is a large beautiful lake where you can swim.

Fort Aguada

Aguada Fort is the oldest landmark in Goa, built during the time of the Portuguese. It is located next to Candolim beach and is recognized as the most famous fortress, which has survived to this day. That is why the fort is currently used as a prison.

It was built in the 17th century entirely from red stone in the delta of the Mondovi River. At that time, it was used as a protective fortification and water storage.

Today, any tourist can visit Agauda Fort from 10 am to 6 pm. The lighthouse located on the territory of the fort is also open to visitors, but, unfortunately, is no longer operational.

Betalbatim

This is a small village in Goa, coastline which stretches only 1500 meters. The beaches of the village are considered one of the best places for meditation and a relaxing family holiday.

When coming here, it is worth remembering that Betalbatim is devoid of any infrastructure; there is not even a medical center here.

However, the coast surrounded by pine trees is recognized as the best in all of Goa. The village of Betalbatim can be considered a kind of golden mean, where there is practically no infrastructure, except for hotels located at some distance from the beaches. There are not many people here, so nature has remained pure and pristine. Quiet and calm people will enjoy a holiday in this village. If you want entertainment and bustle, then you should go to neighboring Majorda.

The beaches of Betalbatim are very picturesque. The descent to the water is gentle, and the sand has a very beautiful golden color. We can say that this is a paradise for children and adults who are bad swimmers. The north of the coast is called “sunset beach.” The name speaks for itself: in the evenings you can watch extraordinary sunsets here, painting everything around in simply fantastic colors.

You won’t find any entertainment or attractions on the beach; there is only peace and quiet around. You can have a snack in a cafe on the coast. The prices there are low, but the food is quite tasty. Free sun loungers and umbrellas will be a bonus. This privilege applies only to cafe clients. There are no attractions in the village, but there is enough beach holiday here to have a good time.

Waterfall and cave Arvalem

A 7-meter waterfall is located in North Goa. You can hear it several kilometers away, such a noisy waterfall. This is due to the fact that after the fall the water runs along the rocks of Mount Ghat. At the very base there is a lake that looks fantastic surrounded by a mountain landscape.

Near the waterfall there is a huge stone staircase that leads to the Sri Rudreshwar Temple. If you want to take photographs, then it is worth finding this staircase, as it offers an amazing view of the surrounded mountains.

In addition to the waterfall, it is worth visiting the caves of the same name. There are rumors that they are of artificial origin and were created by Buddhists who simply had nowhere to live. According to some sources, their appearance dates back to the 5th century.

The caves consist of 5 interconnected tunnels. They are comparable in size to a standard hockey rink. Inside you can see numerous inscriptions in Sanskrit, which are already 800 years old.

Bondla Nature Reserve

This is the smallest reserve in Goa, covering an area of ​​8 sq. kilometers. However, despite its size, it is one of the most famous places in the state.

Mostly families with children come here. The kids will really like it here, and all because the park is literally chock-full of animals, playgrounds, and recreation rooms. The reserve even has its own steam locomotive that will take you to all interesting places. Adults won't lose out either. There is long-awaited shade and elephants to ride.

Bondla's structure consists of wild and cultivated zones. In the very center there is a zoo and a botanical garden with children's entertainment. They are surrounded by a dense forest with real predatory animals. True, seeing them is always problematic, but if you succeed, you can meet leopards, wild boars, and so on. In the thicket there are the remains of an ancient temple, so if you are lucky, you will see them too.

Cotigao Nature Reserve

This reserve is the second largest among others in South Goa. It will be easy to get here, as it is located 12 kilometers from Palolem. This is what captivates tourists, since most often it is not so easy to get into the jungle. The reserve is located on the banks of the Talpona River. The main attractions of the reserve are observation decks 25 meters high, from which a magical view of the lake opens. Animals come here in the morning and late evening to quench their thirst. Therefore, if you are offered to stay here for the night, agree, otherwise you will miss an unforgettable sight.

Cotigao was founded in 1969. Unfortunately, since then the number of animals has become much smaller. Once upon a time, bears and leopards could be seen on the territory of the reserve, but now they are gone. Almost the only inhabitants are numerous monkeys. So stock up on bananas, as you will have to feed a whole bunch of these restless animals.

The reserve is designed for connoisseurs of flora, since there are not many animals here. However, even the flora is worth a visit; it is truly unique and original.

Spice plantations

The hallmark of Goa is. Moreover, they are known not only in the state, but throughout India. There are a huge number of plantations scattered here, and each of them corresponds to one specific spice. If you decide to visit them, then choose your favorite one and get ready to go. In addition to spices, you can see fields where fruits are grown: pineapples, papaya and other equally tasty fruits.

It is worth visiting such places as an excursion, and all because the list of events will include elephant riding, performances by local groups and much more.

Om Beach

Om Beach is the most beautiful beach in Goa. It is located between the Arabian Sea and the tropics. Its shape resembles the written sound "Om", which is why it is called that. According to Hindu legends, this sound became the beginning of the Universe.

Surfers have nothing to do on this beach, since there is practically no depth on the coast. And in order to swim, you will have to walk a long distance in search of the deepest place.

There are a lot of small restaurants on the beach with low prices and delicious dishes. You will also be offered a massage there; you should not refuse, as the local masters know their business. You can stay in a guesthouse, but the quality of service is poor. The best option is offered by bungalows for every taste and budget.

St. Catherine's Cathedral in Old Goa

Old Goa is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. This place contains numerous temples and churches. The most frequently visited is St. Catherine's Cathedral.

In terms of size, it tops the list of the largest Christian churches in Asia.

But not only the Orthodox will like it here; Catholics also often come to the cathedral to admire the decor and interior design.

According to legend, one of the halls houses the sacred religion - the “growing cross”. Around the 17th century, a shepherd decided to carve himself a cross from wood. At this time, Christ descended from heaven to him. History is silent about what they talked about at that moment. However, after the conversation, the man brought the finished cross to the chapel, where everyone noticed that it began to grow.

Today the “growing cross” is comparable in size to the one on Calvary.

India. Goa. Arambol beach

If you want to visit a country that will radically change your life, then you need to go to the east. The study showed that India ranks first among the countries in which life-changing events for tourists took place.

Goa

Indian eagle

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Arambol

Arambol was once a simple fishing village. In fact, the boats are still standing here, ready to go for a new catch at any moment. In the mornings and evenings, you can always buy fresh fish from local fishermen and even bargain on the price. Compared to other resorts in Goa, it is not so crowded, but this does not reduce the level of service for tourists.

Basically, Arambol is chosen by those who prefer to relax on their own, as a “savage”. Here sandy beaches, clear water and gentle sun. Vacationers enjoy flying kites, kite riding, meditating, doing yoga and merging with nature.

During sunset hours, the so-called sunset takes place in Arambol. Many people gather together on the coast and see off the sun. The ceremony is accompanied by dancing, singing and drumming.

In Arambol there is a tree of love, near which it is customary to confess your feelings at dawn.

Morjim Beach is a three-kilometer sandy coast with airy restaurants made of palm leaves, soft sea, gentle wind, hot sun and night parties that are absolutely crazy in their scope and energy. Morjim beach is especially popular among Russian tourists - practically, it is a “Russian” beach.

Morjim is an ideal place for active recreation. Windsurfing and kiting are popular here. There are two restaurants especially for Russian tourists - Glavfish and Tchaikovsky.

In the southern part, where Chapora flows into the sea, there is a very attractive place - Turtle Beach. In Morjim, everyone claims that large olive turtles come here from October to March to lay their eggs. That is why Morjim has been declared a state reserve and is strictly protected by the state. Morjim Beach is also famous for the fact that locals catch fish here with nets, dry them and sell them as fertilizer for palm trees.

Sal River

The Sal River is one of the largest rivers flowing on the territory of the Indian state. It ranks third in size after such famous rivers as Mandovi and Zuari. Sal is located in South Goa.

The Sal River has one geological and hydrological feature: it is the only river in the world that flows from north to south. Not far from the Sal River there is a small village, the locals of which friendlyly invite tourists to plunge into the life of successful fishermen and take part in the process themselves. On the Sal River there are many islands with amazing landscapes that amaze with their unique beauty.

One of the popular beaches of South Goa, Mobor, is picturesquely located on the banks of this river. A strip of land separates it from the water on three sides at once, creating an atmosphere of privacy and tranquility. This territory has been given the status of a protected reserve of national importance.

Mandrem

Near this village there is Dunes Beach, but there is no clear boundary between them, so it is often called Mandrem. Two bridges lead to the beach across the pond: one wooden, the other bamboo. There is almost white sand, greenery and palm trees all around. During the day you can see kites, do yoga or play with a ball.

Mandrem is often chosen by families with children, which is not surprising, because this beach is very clean. The beach has all the necessary infrastructure and has not yet been turned into a commercial resort area. This former fishing village has retained the relaxed atmosphere that travelers come for.

There is always a place for trade near the snow-white beaches. For drinks, food and other necessary things, you can go on foot, by taxi or rented a scooter to the Madlamaz-Mandrem market. The choice of accommodation in this piece of paradise is very diverse. Wealthy tourists can afford to rent a separate villa; more economical options are to rent a bungalow or a hotel room. All options are located in close proximity to the beach - from 50 to 200 meters.

Mandrem is a wonderful place for meditation and social relaxation, surrounded by lush freshness and coconut palms.

Dabolim Airport

Dabolim Airport (IATA: GOI, ICAO: VOGO) is an airport located near the village of Dabolim, Goa, India. It is the only airport in the state and consists of two terminals, one of which has international status. The main purpose of the airport currently is to serve the numerous tourists visiting Goa.

The airport is part of the Indian Navy's Hansa Air Station. Built by the Portuguese colonial government in the 1950s.

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Fish market

The fish market in Goa is located in the central part of the state, in the village of Siolim. This is perhaps one of the most popular fish markets in Goa, India. Siolim is located on the Chapora River, and a bridge was built across it. The fish market is located right next to the bridge, its opening hours depend on the catch: in the morning from 6 to 10-11 o'clock, and in the evening - after 17 o'clock until sunset.

Here you can buy the freshest fish, shark or tuna, shellfish, octopus and squid, shrimp of various sizes and crabs, mackerel and shells caught in Indian Ocean. The prices are quite reasonable and affordable even for the poor. Both locals and tourists make purchases at the market. At the same time, sellers are free to quote different prices to one and the other. Of course, it’s worth bargaining; it will be pleasant not only for you, but also for the sellers. Some of them can, at your request and most likely for a fee, scale and gut the fish, cut it into portions, or sell you clean fillets.

The most popular attractions in Goa with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose best places to visit famous places in Goa on our website.

This article will describe the attractions of South Goa. Many regard this region of India as a great beach holiday destination. And they are not wrong. The beaches here are truly wonderful. But there are warm seas and golden sand in many corners of the globe. But you will not find such sights as in Goa anywhere else. Therefore, it would be a big mistake to devote your entire vacation to mindlessly lying on the beaches.

If you want to return home with vivid memories, megabytes of colorful photographs and knowledge of what the real Goa is, you need to go on exciting excursions around the state. Which ones exactly? Our article will talk about this.

Invisible border

Goa is the only state in India where tourists flock to sunbathe and swim like seals. But this is a very interesting place, completely different from other regions of the country. The fact is that for a long time the state of Goa belonged to Portugal, so the Indian exoticism here is generously diluted with the culture of the European Mediterranean. Statues of the Virgin Mary are adjacent to images of Krishna. Catholic churches coexist peacefully with Hindu ones.

Goa like tourist destination, opened by hippies in the seventies of the last century. Boys and girls from wealthy families moved here from Western Europe and the United States to start new life. Many of them grew old in India. But since the nineties, tour operators have displaced the hippie youth. In the south of the state, luxury four- and five-star hotels began to be built. Hippies (now Rastafarians have also been added to them) were pushed back to the north of Goa. Now the difference between the two parts of the state is even more pronounced than it once was between West and East Germany. The Zuari River serves as an invisible border.

How do the attractions of South Goa differ from those located in the north of the state? These are mainly natural beauties. But there is also “real India” here, with its mysterious temples and unique flavor.

How to get there

Of course, the best way to experience the delights of South Goa is to fly to the state. Direct flights Moscow - Goa (from Sheremetyevo) arrive at Fly here non-stop for seven to eight hours. Connecting flights also depart through Moscow and other Russian cities to Dabolim. In this case, depending on which airport you have a transfer at, you will spend ten to twenty hours traveling.

So you have landed in Goa. The time in this Indian state is two and a half hours ahead of Moscow. Then you travel from the airport to the hotel where you will spend your vacation. It is best to do this by taxi - fortunately they are inexpensive here. Well, if you are a budget traveler or prefer to spend extra money on excursions, then hire a rickshaw to take you with your things to the city of Vasco da Gama. From there there are already buses to Pananji, the local capital. There at the station find the shuttle bus going to Margao - this is main city South Goa. And to get to your resort, again use the services of a rickshaw.

Excursions to historical sites

So, you arrived at the place, swam and sunbathed to your heart’s content, and adapted to the local climate. And now you want to explore South Goa. Excursions to these places can be purchased from many tour operators. Usually the package includes a visit to Old Goa. This city, in addition to its architectural merits, is interesting because during the rule of the Portuguese it was even the capital of India. Historical center beautiful, worth checking out. At every step here, if not a cathedral, then a Catholic church.

The Churches of St. Catherine and St. Francis of Assisi and the Basilica of Bom Jesus are the main things to see for everyone. Sometimes tourists are taken to Margao (South Goa). Tours of the unofficial capital of this part of the state include a visit to the Baroque Church of the Holy Spirit and the amazing mango orchard that surrounds it. Not far from another church - the chapel of St. Sebastian - there is an interesting Pandava cave. We finish our tour of Margao with a visit to the Monte Church. From its height a stunning panorama of the city opens. Don't miss the excursion on the Floating Palace. This tourist boat takes guests of the state along the rivers and canals of Goa. So you can see different colorful villages, Hindu temples and Catholic churches, built on different banks.

Cotigao Nature Reserve

This one is huge natural park is located in the far south of the state. As befits an attraction that is located in such exotic place, it attracts tourists with the opportunity to admire amazingly beautiful plants and unusual animals. Main feature there are two reserves observation towers. They are located in such a way that while on them, you can observe representatives of the local fauna without interfering with their daily life. You will be fascinated by the contemplation of different “floors” of the Indian jungle, where monkeys frolic. In addition, the towers offer beautiful panoramic views of the picturesque Indian landscapes. And if you stay in the reserve overnight and climb the towers in the morning, you will be lucky to catch wild animals at a watering hole. It’s easy to get here on your own - the reserve is located just twelve kilometers from Palolem beach.

Mollem National Park

You can see a lot more exotic jungle animals here than in Cotigao. This park is part of the Bhagwan Mahavir Nature Reserve and is its central part. All this is a protected area of ​​the Western Ghats. Mollem is located on the Karnataka border, east of Pananji. A huge number of snakes, lizards, butterflies, birds and animals are found here. Like in Cotigao, in Mollem there is also a special observation point located on a tower, from where you can watch the life of plants and animals, as well as admire the surrounding landscapes.

You can get here both by road and by rail. But to visit Mollem you need a special permit. You can organize a trip here from any beach that South Goa is rich in. Excursions depart from there every day. And according to national park and the reserve organizes special tours. After all, tourists come here not only to meet exotic animals, but also to look at the most famous natural attractions in the south of Goa - Dudhsagar Falls and Devil's Canyon. There are some here, but they are often located in very hard-to-reach places.

Waterfall

This natural wonder is considered the largest waterfall in India. The translation of its name into Russian sounds like “milk ocean”. Dudhsagar Falls is a huge multi-level system, stunning in its beauty. There is a beautiful legend about him. Allegedly, the forest princess, while swimming in the lake, saw that a man was watching her from the jungle, and poured milk from a magic jug into the waterfall. The liquid turned white. And this place itself reminds of the chastity and modesty that a real princess should have.

Indeed, the waterfall is famous for its unusual colors, as well as its height. All its levels are more than six hundred meters long. The water falls from a height of about 300 m. And in the lake next to Dudhsagar you can actually swim if you wish. Tourists come here in jeeps and go back using a special hiking trail on foot. It is best to visit this attraction in autumn and winter.

Canyon

An ominous cleft in the rocks attracts many curious visitors to Goa. is located in a place where the mountains were cut through by the Kandepar River. Some say that the water here goes straight into the abyss of hell. Nobody knows if this is true, but swimming there is prohibited as it is extremely dangerous. Geographers say that the depth of the canyon is about fifty meters, which is also quite a lot. Many people take photographs here, because the lake itself in the crevice is extremely picturesque, as are the surrounding rocks.

The oldest temple in the state

Most often in South Goa it is Catholic churches that are watched. But there are also a lot of interesting ones here. One of them is located in the Bhagwan Mahavir Nature Reserve. If you walk another twelve kilometers along the Kandepar stream from the Devil's Canyon, you can discover an ancient religious site dedicated to the god Shiva - the Mahadeva Tambdi Surla Temple. It is the oldest in the state of Goa. It was created in the thirteenth century, during the Yadava dynasty. It is built from basalt. It is precisely due to the fact that it is located in a difficult-to-reach place that the temple was not destroyed and was able to survive both Muslim and Catholic rule. Its main sanctuary was used to worship the lingam (sexual organ) of Shiva, which symbolized fertility and prosperity.

Beaches

Separately, I would like to mention the various picturesque sections of the coast. Beaches are also attractions of South Goa. For example, Aguada is not only a well-kept place for swimming, but is also located under the walls of the ancient Portuguese fort of the same name. Near Pananji there is Miramar Beach. It is visited only for the stunning scenery. It's not worth swimming there. A special beach for lovers, covered in romantic legends - Dona Paula - is located not far from the residence of the Governor of Goa. But the best, “classic” coast of the southern part of the state is Majorda. Imagine thirty kilometers of beaches, with groves of fruit trees and palm trees leading down to them. Picturesque villages line the shores, between which buses run. Why isn't it heaven?

Most luxury beach South Goa - Varca. Only exclusive hotels are built here. The most amazing and unlike others is Mobor. It is a long braid of whitest sand. There are many islands, dunes and lily ponds. And where tourists have only recently begun to flock, it is known for being very popular with dolphins. It's not easy to get here, but it's worth it. According to Forbes, Palolem is recognized as one of the ten best beaches on the globe.

How to navigate on your own

To explore many of the sights of South Goa, it is enough to rent not even a motorbike, but an ordinary bicycle. Why? The fact is that the area here is flat and at the same time picturesque. Riding along it while pedaling is a pleasure. The price for a bicycle starts from 70 rupees per day, but if you rent it for a week or two, it will be cheaper. Of course, mopeds and scooters are common. Renting such a vehicle will cost two hundred rupees per day. If you are not a fan of outdoor activities, but do not want to overpay taxi drivers, turn to the same rickshaws. They will charge around 9 rupees per kilometer. But most often it is better to visit different beaches this way. And for a taxi you will have to pay 17-25 rupees/km. If you want to experience local life, travel by boat regular buses. The infrastructure in this part of the state is good and transport is frequent. Men and women tend to travel in different sections of buses.