The best resorts in India. Which Goa resort to choose
Administratively and historically, Goa is divided into northern and southern zones, the border between which runs along the mouth of the Zuari River.
This division largely determines the features of tourism infrastructure and recreation, and also makes the differences between districts noticeable in terms of energy and atmosphere. There are still ongoing debates about where it is better to relax in Goa: in the north or south? To answer this question for yourself, it is worth understanding the distinctive features of these areas.
It's been like this since the hippie movement, that North Goa is chosen by devotees active recreation, dancing, parties and other entertainment. People come to this part of India not in search of peace, but rather for new existential impressions and experiences, as the legendary Fab Four once did The Beatles.
The local beaches are always full of young people, cheerful, noisy, easy-going.
And in general, the crowd here is unpretentious: North Goa does not offer tourists ultra-modern hotels and elite service. Therefore, the conditions here are simpler and much lower than in the neighboring southern district.
The best beaches in North Goa
1. Arambol
Arambol is considered the hallmark of North Goa - it is the most famous local beach and therefore the most lively. There are many bars, cafes (sheks), inexpensive hotels, shops and street vendors. Arambol is also known to tourists for its beach market and the so-called “drum circle”, which gathers every day to accompany the sun into sunset.
2. Mandrem
On Mandrem it is difficult to see a noisy, dashing company; it is more often chosen by married couples. It is one of the beaches in North Goa where it is better to relax with children. The conditional boundaries of its territory are two small rivers, one of which is crossed by simple bamboo bridges. On the sandy strip along the sea there are many shallow natural pools With sea water– Children especially like to splash around in them.
3. Morjim
This gently sloping sandy beach is an attraction in itself: local residents They jokingly call it “Moscow Beach”. The vast majority of tourists here are Russian speakers, and this trend is noticeable in everything: the names of dishes on the cafe menu, the vocabulary of merchants, the music playing everywhere...
Compared to other beaches in North Goa, Morjim is not a cheap place. But it’s very cool to go kiting and windsurfing here: hot, sunny and moderately windy weather is perfect for these types of recreation.
Last minute tours to the best beaches of Goa
4. Calangute
In the eyes of tourists, Calangute is a whole town with a well-developed beach infrastructure: hotels, cafes, restaurants, massages, sun loungers on the coast, and much more. It is quite noisy and crowded here at almost any time of the year, but a variety of recreational activities are always available and guests of North Goa have no problems with accommodation and food.
5. Candolim
If it is difficult to decide where it is better to go on holiday in Goa, Candolim can serve as a “golden mean”. Perhaps this is the most respectable and “secular” beach in the district, closer in spirit to South Goa than North Goa.
Prices here are higher, but the conditions live up to expectations: peaceful atmosphere, comfortable accommodation, developed infrastructure. The descent to the sea is quite steep, but this drawback is made up for by the beauty and spaciousness of the water surface, on which you can see the figures of kiters and windsurfers.
Holidays in South Goa
South Goa It is considered in India a place of respectable relaxation, full of dignity and leisurely contemplation. A selective audience comes here: wealthy or even very wealthy tourists seeking high-level service and accommodation with maximum comfort.
It is better to relax in South Goa for those who are looking for the opportunity to visit gorgeous beaches with light clean sand and stay in a 5-star hotel.
Here you can be sure of additional services for the child (animator, children's room, etc.), which is why South Goa is often chosen for. In general, local resorts attract a mature and sedate audience, so late-night parties and noisy get-togethers are rare.
Best beaches in South Goa
1. Colva Beach
The cleanest and most beautiful beach with a length of more than 24 km proudly bears the title of the best in everything Goa state. A flat sandy bottom, a gentle slope to the water, and a weak current make it safe, especially for swimming children.
The conditions for recreation in this part of South Goa are different: from luxury hotels with spacious rooms to very small guest houses. Another feature of the place is the active nightlife: In addition to entertainment venues open after sunset, there is even a night market.
2. Cavelossim
A snow-white beach framed by palm groves with luxurious villas and a huge selection of entertainment: from catamaran riding and diving to fire shows and fireworks. Various excursions and trips around India are organized from here, including boat trip with dolphins. And lovers of night discos will be pleased Party Zone, the No. 1 disco club in South Goa.
3. Majorda
Those who have ever been to Goa, India, have no question about where it is better to go on vacation - of course, to the Majorda resort! According to reviews from tourists, this is where truly gorgeous beach with snow-white fine and gentle sand, not to mention stunning scenery.
Local cafes serve national dishes, have menus in Russian, and host entertainment events with dancing and music. One of the undoubted advantages is the opportunity to visit SPA, go on an excursion and play almost any sport: from volleyball to surfing.
4. Palolem
A relatively small beach in South Goa (only about 2 km) with atmospheric bungalows and boats on the shore. It is located in a bay, so there are no big waves here and water activities are simple and quite traditional. The sand is fine and soft, the environment is clean and orderly, many cafes and shops are open, and the choice of holiday accommodation is practically unlimited: hotels, guest houses, bungalow.
5. Cooking
An uncrowded, well-maintained and beautiful beach with enchanting natural views. There is not much entertainment here: you can go cycling or watch dolphins. Prices for accommodation in local hotels are quite high, but the level of service corresponds to them.
North or South Goa, which is better?
Travel to North Goa if you:
- you are going on holiday to India for the first time and want to get to know the lifestyle of its inhabitants better;
- value the spirit of freedom above the comfortable shackles of civilization;
- enjoy simple human joys;
- You are young in body and soul and want to maintain this feeling for a long time.
Goa is a resort state southwest coast India. Goa is more than a hundred kilometers of golden beaches with coconut trees on the shore, these are noisy parties and comfortable hotels, 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 in up to small hostels with a single proud star in . “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
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Dear 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 . |
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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Entertainment outside the hotel almost none. |
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. is considered a respectable resort where wealthy Europeans relax; chosen by budget travelers and creative youth; Central Goa combines the characteristics of other parts of the state and is a large transport hub: There is an airport, railway station, port, bus stations here.
North Goa
Large spacious beach, many nightclubs and bars, there is 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 furthest 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. 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.
Secluded village with very good level service in hotels. Spacious clean beach 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 ordinary 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).
Between Goa resorts direct message no, you need to go with a change at the 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. A good souvenir would be spices, toothpaste with red pepper, and natural cosmetics from the Hymalaya brand. 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 January 2020, 1 rupee is equal to 87 Russian kopecks.
- 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.
All about holidays in Goa in 2020! Reviews from tourists, pros and cons. Prices for tours, hotels, food. Best resorts and beaches. Useful tips.
Goa is the smallest, most Europeanized and most touristic state in India. After a holiday in Goa, someone becomes imbued with eternal love for him, some even go to live, but someone can no longer be lured with gingerbread. We will tell you everything you need to know about holidays in Goa, and you decide whether to go there or not.
When is the best time to go to Goa?
High season. According to reviews, best time for a holiday in Goa - from November to March. The peak season, when the state is crowded with tourists and prices soar, is December-February. The weather is ideal: almost no precipitation, comfortable humidity. Water temperature +28...+29°С, air temperature during the day +33...+34°С, at night about +22...+24°С. In the evenings by the sea it can be cool, so take a light jacket with sleeves.
Low season. Some people go on vacation to Goa during the low season - this way they can save money and relax in silence. For example, in April the weather is still good, but it gets hotter and the wind gets stronger, and there are fewer tourists.
This is the weather in high season in Goa (Photo © Sergi Hill / flickr.com / License CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Tours to Goa in 2020
Prices are for two people with departure from Moscow.
The most expensive holiday in Goa is on New Year and Catholic Christmas. Prices jump sharply, and the minimum prices for tours to the cheapest 1-2* hotels cost from 90 thousand rubles per week, and in 4-5* hotels - from 150 thousand!
Much cheaper in January: a week's holiday in Goa in budget hotels costs from 40 thousand, in 4-5* - from 90 thousand. Prices for 11-night tours are only slightly higher - 10-20 thousand, and sometimes the same price as tours for a week!
In February and March, vouchers become slightly more expensive: a week in inexpensive hotels - from 45-50 thousand rubles, in 4-5 * - from 70-90 thousand rubles.
Advice. Always compare the cost of tours for a week and for 11 days - sometimes the prices are the same or the difference is small. Also look for last-minute tours - there are especially many of them in Goa.
Palolem Beach in Goa (Photo © tripster.ru / Unexplored beaches of North Goa) How much do tickets cost to Goa?
Minimum prices for air tickets to Goa from Moscow and back in winter and spring - 23-28 thousand rubles per person. Flying from St. Petersburg is almost twice as expensive - from 42 thousand rubles. Tickets from Voronezh, Novosibirsk, Kazan, Perm, Krasnoyarsk, Ufa and Samara cost in the range of 42-45 thousand rubles.
Insurance. Before traveling to India, we advise you to buy a medical policy for your peace of mind. Apply for insurance on websites or - they compare prices from all major insurance companies. You can choose a policy according to the required parameters and best price. The policy costs from 450 rubles for 10 days.
Do Russians need a visa to Goa?
Yes, a visa is required. You can get it online, upon arrival (if you are flying on a tour) or order it in advance. According to reviews, most tourists apply e-visa in Goa online is the simplest and most convenient solution. You send your documents and pay the fee, and they will send you a document by e-mail that you need to print and show to the officer at the airport. Valid for 60 days. Price - $100 + $2 for payment by card.
Incredible view while traveling by train, Goa (Photo © unsplash.com / @jk) South or North Goa - what to choose?
North and South Goa are very different! Find out how to choose the best resort.
South Goa: expensive and relaxing holiday. South Goa is almost 2.5 times larger than its northern counterpart in area and length coastline 3 times. Excellent here sandy beaches, clean water and mountains. In the reviews, tourists advise families with children and those who want privacy to go to South Goa - there are fewer people here, but the hotels are mostly expensive.
North Goa: budget and party holiday. In the north of the state there are beaches with grayish sand of volcanic origin, not as beautiful as in the south. The infrastructure here is better developed, there is a greater choice of housing - from luxury hotels to cheap guesthouses. And if the south is preferred by lovers of secluded relaxation, then in the north there are noisy parties and a vibrant nightlife. Mostly unpretentious people come here, their goal is entertainment. It was this part of the state that was once chosen by hippies in the 60s of the last century.
Previously a hippie vacation spot, now it is a popular crowded beach with hotels and restaurants. Locals love to visit Calangute; it is never empty. There are palm groves all around, and the dome of the temple rises at the entrance. There is also an art gallery with creations by local artists. According to reviews of holidays in Goa, the main drawback of this beach is that it is crowded and intrusive from local merchants.
Calangute Beach (Photo © booking.com / Canopus by Vista Rooms) Candolim Beach
The beach is clean and not as crowded as Calangute. But the descent to it is quite steep. Candolim is considered more prestigious: locals rarely come here, more often foreigners.
According to reviews from tourists, this beach in Goa is very popular among Indians and families come to relax. Mostly they crowd at the main entrances, so move 200-300 meters to the side - there are fewer people there.
Colva Beach (Photo © booking.com / C Roque) Betalbatim Beach
Well suited for family and relaxing holidays, several hotels and shacks on almost 1.5 km of sandy strip. The most popular among our tourists is Nanu Resort Goa.
This beach is loved by Russians. Prices in Morjim are higher, but the infrastructure is developed - new bungalows, excellent restaurants, always well-groomed territory. The wave is well suited for surfing and kiting. All hotels are located in a green area one kilometer from Morjim.
Morjim Beach (Photo © booking.com / Larisa Beach Resort) Arambol Beach
The beach has fine white-golden sand and is surrounded by cottages and huts. There is also a yoga center here. Arambol is popular among surfers and hippies, but the place is quite calm and peaceful.
Ashwem Beach
Ashvem is calm and uncrowded. Small warm backwater and shacks with varied cuisine. According to reviews, it is better for romantics and families with children to relax on this beach in Goa.
(Photo © Natesh Ramasamy / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC 2.0)
Goa hotel reviews and prices - 2020
Hotels in South Goa are better than hotels in the north. But in North Goa there is a lot of budget housing. The range of housing prices in the state is huge: you can rent a double room from $8 per night to $400-500 and even more.
There are many hotels here - choose to suit every taste! The cost of a simple double room near the shore starts from $8-9 per night, with many housing offers in the range of $10-30. Pay attention to hotel ratings and reviews - this is especially important in India.
Hotel prices in Goa in the high season of 2020 for double occupancy:
- beautiful territory, garden, separate bungalows, clean beach, delicious breakfasts, but there are also rooms with falling apart furniture and worn-out linen.Bad hotels. The tourists left a lot negative reviews about the Valentines Retreat hotel in Candolim: old furniture and bathroom, poor food and poor service, it is better not to use laundries. They complain about The Golden Palms Colva 4* hotel - poor service, worn-out furniture, unpretentious food, which in the summer becomes too spicy due to the influx of Indian tourists.
Top view of ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa (Photo © booking.com) Food prices in Goa - 2020
According to reviews, prices in Goa pleasantly surprise tourists, they are so low here: a portion of soup costs 50-60 rupees, rice with chicken 100-150 rupees, shrimp - 150 rupees, tea - about 30 rupees, juice - from 50 rupees. True, you will have to pay at least 1,200 rupees for a lobster. .
The main catering establishment is the beach shack. There is a kitchen-shed with everything you need, in front of it there is a terrace and tables for visitors. So primitive, but so delicious! There are dishes of Indian, Chinese, European cuisine, always seafood, chicken, rice, juices.
In reviews of food in Goa, tourists call Cafe Maitree in Arambol the best and downright expensive - check the price of the dish in advance. If you feel homesick, go to Home Cafe Dacha in Arambol, where you can eat for 300-500 rupees. Rainbow Bar is popular in Morjim - tasty, inexpensive, good service, average bill - 500 rupees.
Find out where else you can inexpensively vacation and live.
Thali - several dishes on a tray or banana leaf (Photo © bionicgrrrl / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC-ND 2.0) Goa – amazing resort on the west coast of India, striking in the beauty of its sandy beaches. This is real paradise, where Indian exoticism and Western European traditions are surprisingly intertwined.
Goa is situated on seven rivers that are navigable all year round. In the center of the coast, near the port of Vasco da Gama, there are two islands - St. George and Bogmalo, where divers dive. Goa amazes with its natural diversity: there are jungles, mango thickets, spice plantations and magnificent waterfalls, lakes and islands.
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Interesting moments in the history of Goa
Goa was founded back in the 3rd century BC, as evidenced by the monuments of Hindu history found here.
In 1312, Goa was first invaded by Muslims, but in 1370, the army of Harihara of the First Vajayanagar Empire drove them out. For about a hundred years, Goa was the most important port of this empire.
In 1510, Goa was captured by the Portuguese, who were attracted here by the desire to seize control of the Asian spice market. Since then, for several centuries, Goa has been the main intercontinental trading base throughout south asia. From then until 1961, representatives of the Portuguese crown ruled here.
In 1961, the territory of Goa was liberated by a political movement for independence.
Climate and weather in Goa
The climate in Goa is tropical, turning into a tropical monsoon in the north. The rainy season lasts from June until the end of September. The ideal time for a holiday is from October to February.
Sights of Goa – what is worth visiting
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Panangi is the capital of Goa. The city is located on the Mandovi River. The appearance of Panangi was very much influenced by the Portuguese influence. Narrow streets, a square with a church, houses with balconies overhanging the street, many cozy cafes - all in Portuguese style. The symbol of the city is the statue of Abbot Faria, who was born in Goa and died in the Château d'If.
One of the architectural monuments of Pananji is the Church of the Immaculate Conception, which was built in 1541 and for some time served as a kind of lighthouse for sailors.
Other attractions – architectural ensemble Largo de Igreja, Chapel of St. Sebastian, Secretariat building.
Old Goa is a magnificent city a few kilometers east of Pananji. UNESCO declared Old Goa a “patrimony of humanity”.
Here is St. Catherine's Cathedral, the largest Christian temple in Asia and a wonderful example of Renaissance architecture, built in 1510 by the Portuguese to celebrate the capture of Old Goa on St. Catherine's Day.
Another attraction of Old Goa is the world-famous Chapel of the Basilica of Jesus, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture.
Mapusa – main city North Goa. Here is the famous Maruti Temple, built in honor of God Maruti, the son of the Wind God. Also in Mapusa you can see the Christian Church of St. Jerome, built in 1594. At the end of each week, fairs are held in Mapusa, and on holidays there are carnivals and festivals.
The Church of St. Francis Xavier was built in 1520 and rebuilt in 1663 as the Archbishop's Palace.
Ponda – largest city in the eastern part of Goa, around which there are many Hindu temples, the most interesting of which are Mangesh, Mahalsa, Shantadurga.
Dudhsagar Falls is one of the highest in India, the length of the water flow is 603 meters. At the foot of the waterfall you can swim in the crystal clear waters of a small lake.
In February every year, for three days and three nights, the whole of Goa lives in the rhythms of the carnival. The slogan of the holiday is to eat, drink and be merry. If you are lucky enough to get to Goa during this wonderful event, be prepared for the fact that it is better to go out in clothes that you don’t mind throwing away later, because one of the favorite pastimes of local youth is pouring paint on each other and those around them.
Holidays in Goa - what to do
There are several Ayurvedic medicine centers in Goa. The goal of the Ayurvedic method is to strengthen the body's immune system, prevent and treat diseases with the help of natural medicines that do not give side effects. Ayurveda Centers also offer a special program for weight loss and facial skin care. Be sure to take a seven-day course of Panchakarma massage and body cleansing, known for more than 2500 years.
There are 12 diving bases around the islands of Bogmalo and St. George. The diving season in Goa is from October to April - the monsoons are favorable, the water temperature is 25-30°C.
The underwater world of Goa is extremely beautiful and rich - sea turtles, electric rays, tuna, barracuda, sharks are just some of the colorful fauna of this region.
Goa - the coast of crazy parties under open air. Here, such a musical direction as gao-trance was born, which is now considered one of the most progressive and intelligent in modern electronic music. Even if you are not a lover of trance, if you go to such a party, you will probably not be able to remain indifferent to the mystical action you see.
Population, language, religion of Goa
About 1.5 million people live in Goa. The main language here is Konkani, Karda and Marathi are also widely spoken, and almost the entire population speaks English.
According to religious beliefs, the population of Goa is divided into Hindus (80%), Muslims (14%), Christians (2.4%), Sikhs (2%), Buddhists (0.7%) and Jains (0.5%).
Tips for tourists
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Bargaining is a must in Goa. On the street, goods are sold at free prices. Fixed prices for goods can only be found in supermarkets and stores where a “fix price” sign is hung.
Be sure to buy Indian tea and spices, which are very cheap here, and Goan port, which is sold in bottles or bags.
On Wednesdays there is a flea market in Ajuna. Here you can buy amazing mirrors (Rajasthani mirror), national bedspreads, and Kerala wood carvings. In the crowd you will meet wandering musicians, jugglers, and snake charmers.
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In the souvenir shops of Goa you will find a lot of ceramic products, each of which can rightfully be called a work of art, as well as amazingly beautiful jewelry made from sea shells and corals.
There are cozy cafes and restaurants along the entire coast. Here, freshly caught fish will be cooked right before your eyes. And with the fish you will be served a strong, aromatic “Fenny” made from cashew nuts.
The most popular type of transport is a taxi, which is quite cheap. It's better to bargain about the price before you go. For short trips it is convenient to take a rickshaw.
For independent trips Motorcycles are often rented. A car is usually rented complete with a driver. To rent a car without a driver, you need to pay a very large deposit.
Be sure to take personal hygiene products, medicines for intestinal disorders, a flashlight or candles with you to Goa (there are sometimes power cuts here).
Excursions to Goa resort
Tiger eyes
The tour begins with a 5-hour bus ride from Goa to Udipi, Karnataka. The city is very picturesque and famous for its temples. Hotel accommodation.
Golden Triangle
The excursion allows you to get acquainted with the outstanding architectural monuments of the Mughal era and the Rajput state of the northern part of India.
Beauty of Goa
Departure from the hotel after an early breakfast. Arrival at the forest camp, accommodation in tents equipped with shower and toilet, lunch.
Early evening is the best time for a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. Here you can learn how to cook national Indian dishes. Then eat them yourself...
Cruise on desert island
A boat trip to an uninhabited island, which is located near the southern coast of Goa. Landing on a deserted beach with snow-white sand. Swimming, snorkeling, fishing.
Adventure in the Backwater
Travel by boat through the mangroves along the backwaters of the Zauri River and the Kumbarju Canal in the natural habitats of crocodiles, which swim in large numbers next to the boat or bask on the shore.
Time travel
Drive from Panaji to Old Goa, which is called the Rome of the East. The city was founded by Adil Shah in the first decade of the 16th century, but a few years later in 1510 it was conquered by the Portuguese Afonso de Albuquerque.
Hampi
The tour takes us from eastern Goa through farms and tribal settlements to the state of Karnataka. Here in the heart of the Deccan plateau lie ruins ancient capital Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi city, built in the 14th century. The empire was one of the most powerful. She actively traded with the Arab East and Portugal. Unfortunately, the colossus found itself on feet of clay and fell, torn apart by internal turmoil, under the onslaught of Muslim conquerors. But the city of Hampi, where numerous monuments, both preserved and partially destroyed, speak of the high skill of the people who created them, and of the deep love of this people for their land.
Temples and spices
A trip to the most big island Goa - Tiswadi to visit two temples built in the architectural style common in the early 18th century, the so-called "Mahalsa and Mangeshi", a wonderful mixture of Portuguese architecture with the art of Indian artisans.
Goa resort, one of the most famous resorts world, is very popular among tourists. A variety of recreational activities and excursion programs are one of the main components of modern recreation. Like most resorts in the world, Goa Resort can provide different levels of relaxation at a variety of prices. This resort has both luxury hotels and budget hotels.
If you are tormented by the question “Where to relax?”, “Where to spend your vacation?” Then perhaps Goa Resort will be the ideal place to relax.
All about holidays in Goa in 2020! Reviews from tourists, pros and cons. Prices for tours, hotels, food. The best resorts and beaches. Useful tips.
Goa is the smallest, most Europeanized and most touristic state in India. After a holiday in Goa, someone becomes imbued with eternal love for him, some even go to live, but someone can no longer be lured with gingerbread. We will tell you everything you need to know about holidays in Goa, and you decide whether to go there or not.
When is the best time to go to Goa?
High season. According to reviews, the best time to holiday in Goa is from November to March. The peak season, when the state is crowded with tourists and prices soar, is December-February. The weather is ideal: almost no precipitation, comfortable humidity. Water temperature +28...+29°С, air temperature during the day +33...+34°С, at night about +22...+24°С. In the evenings by the sea it can be cool, so take a light jacket with sleeves.
Low season. Some people go on vacation to Goa during the low season - this way they can save money and relax in silence. For example, in April the weather is still good, but it gets hotter and the wind gets stronger, and there are fewer tourists.
This is the weather in high season in Goa (Photo © Sergi Hill / flickr.com / License CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Tours to Goa in 2020
Prices are for two people with departure from Moscow.
The most expensive holidays in Goa are for the New Year and Catholic Christmas. Prices jump sharply, and the minimum prices for tours to the cheapest 1-2* hotels cost from 90 thousand rubles per week, and in 4-5* hotels - from 150 thousand!
Much cheaper in January: a week's holiday in Goa in budget hotels costs from 40 thousand, in 4-5* - from 90 thousand. Prices for 11-night tours are only slightly higher - 10-20 thousand, and sometimes the same price as tours for a week!
In February and March, vouchers become slightly more expensive: a week in inexpensive hotels - from 45-50 thousand rubles, in 4-5 * - from 70-90 thousand rubles.
Advice. Always compare the cost of tours for a week and for 11 days - sometimes the prices are the same or the difference is small. Also look for last-minute tours - there are especially many of them in Goa.
Palolem Beach in Goa (Photo © tripster.ru / Unexplored beaches of North Goa) How much do tickets cost to Goa?
Minimum prices for air tickets to Goa from Moscow and back in winter and spring - 23-28 thousand rubles per person. Flying from St. Petersburg is almost twice as expensive - from 42 thousand rubles. Tickets from Voronezh, Novosibirsk, Kazan, Perm, Krasnoyarsk, Ufa and Samara cost in the range of 42-45 thousand rubles.
Insurance. Before traveling to India, we advise you to buy a medical policy for your peace of mind. Apply for insurance on websites or - they compare prices from all major insurance companies. You can choose a policy based on the parameters you need and the best price. The policy costs from 450 rubles for 10 days.
Do Russians need a visa to Goa?
Yes, a visa is required. You can get it online, upon arrival (if you are flying on a tour) or order it in advance. According to reviews, most tourists apply e-visa in Goa online is the simplest and most convenient solution. You send your documents and pay the fee, and they will send you a document by e-mail that you need to print and show to the officer at the airport. Valid for 60 days. Price - $100 + $2 for payment by card.
Incredible view while traveling by train, Goa (Photo © unsplash.com / @jk) South or North Goa - what to choose?
North and South Goa are very different! Find out how to choose the best resort.
South Goa: expensive and relaxing holiday. South Goa is almost 2.5 times larger than its northern counterpart in area and 3 times in coastline length. There are excellent sandy beaches, clear water and mountains. In the reviews, tourists advise families with children and those who want privacy to go to South Goa - there are fewer people here, but the hotels are mostly expensive.
North Goa: budget and party holidays. In the north of the state there are beaches with grayish sand of volcanic origin, not as beautiful as in the south. The infrastructure here is better developed, there is a greater choice of housing - from luxury hotels to cheap guesthouses. And if the south is preferred by lovers of secluded relaxation, then in the north there are noisy parties and a vibrant nightlife. Mostly unpretentious people come here, their goal is entertainment. It was this part of the state that was once chosen by hippies in the 60s of the last century.
Previously a hippie vacation spot, now it is a popular crowded beach with hotels and restaurants. Locals love to visit Calangute; it is never empty. There are palm groves all around, and the dome of the temple rises at the entrance. There is also an art gallery with creations by local artists. According to reviews of holidays in Goa, the main drawback of this beach is that it is crowded and intrusive from local merchants.
Calangute Beach (Photo © booking.com / Canopus by Vista Rooms) Candolim Beach
The beach is clean and not as crowded as Calangute. But the descent to it is quite steep. Candolim is considered more prestigious: locals rarely come here, more often foreigners.
According to reviews from tourists, this beach in Goa is very popular among Indians and families come to relax. Mostly they crowd at the main entrances, so move 200-300 meters to the side - there are fewer people there.
Colva Beach (Photo © booking.com / C Roque) Betalbatim Beach
Well suited for family and relaxing holidays, several hotels and shacks on almost 1.5 km of sandy strip. The most popular among our tourists is Nanu Resort Goa.
This beach is loved by Russians. Prices in Morjim are higher, but the infrastructure is developed - new bungalows, excellent restaurants, always well-groomed territory. The wave is well suited for surfing and kiting. All hotels are located in a green area one kilometer from Morjim.
Morjim Beach (Photo © booking.com / Larisa Beach Resort) Arambol Beach
The beach has fine white-golden sand and is surrounded by cottages and huts. There is also a yoga center here. Arambol is popular among surfers and hippies, but the place is quite calm and peaceful.
Ashwem Beach
Ashvem is calm and uncrowded. Small warm backwater and shacks with varied cuisine. According to reviews, it is better for romantics and families with children to relax on this beach in Goa.
(Photo © Natesh Ramasamy / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC 2.0)
Goa hotel reviews and prices - 2020
Hotels in South Goa are better than hotels in the north. But in North Goa there is a lot of budget housing. The range of housing prices in the state is huge: you can rent a double room from $8 per night to $400-500 and even more.
There are many hotels here - choose to suit every taste! The cost of a simple double room near the shore starts from $8-9 per night, with many housing offers in the range of $10-30. Pay attention to hotel ratings and reviews - this is especially important in India.
Hotel prices in Goa in high season 2020 for double occupancy:
- beautiful territory, garden, separate bungalows, clean beach, delicious breakfasts, but there are also rooms with falling apart furniture and worn-out linen.Bad hotels. The tourists left a lot negative reviews about the Valentines Retreat hotel in Candolim: old furniture and bathroom, poor food and poor service, it is better not to use laundries. They complain about The Golden Palms Colva 4* hotel - poor service, worn-out furniture, unpretentious food, which in the summer becomes too spicy due to the influx of Indian tourists.
Top view of ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa (Photo © booking.com) Food prices in Goa - 2020
According to reviews, prices in Goa pleasantly surprise tourists, they are so low here: a portion of soup costs 50-60 rupees, rice with chicken 100-150 rupees, shrimp - 150 rupees, tea - about 30 rupees, juice - from 50 rupees. True, you will have to pay at least 1,200 rupees for a lobster. .
The main catering establishment is the beach shack. There is a kitchen-shed with everything you need, in front of it there is a terrace and tables for visitors. So primitive, but so delicious! There are dishes of Indian, Chinese, European cuisine, always seafood, chicken, rice, juices.
In reviews of food in Goa, tourists call Cafe Maitree in Arambol the best and downright expensive - check the price of the dish in advance. If you feel homesick, go to Home Cafe Dacha in Arambol, where you can eat for 300-500 rupees. Rainbow Bar is popular in Morjim - tasty, inexpensive, good service, average bill - 500 rupees.
Find out where else you can inexpensively vacation and live.
Thali - several dishes on a tray or banana leaf (Photo © bionicgrrrl / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
