Choose from 15 Fun Things to Do in Goa
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Calangute Beach
The largest beach in North Goa, Calangute is a lively, popular beach town that attracts domestic tourists and international visitors alike. The beach is lined with hotels and shacks serving seafood, Indian fare, beer, and cocktails, while the adjacent town offers a mix of handicraft shops and bars.
The Basics
Goa's "Queen of Beaches" is a great place to sunbathe and enjoy water sports. It's not the best place for swimming due to a strong undertow, but it's great for windsurfing and wakeboarding. While there are many concessions on the beach offering water sports, it's best to prebook with a reputable company that gets good peer reviews. You can visit Calangute as part of a guided tour of Goa that includes historical and recreational highlights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear sunscreen and a hat; there’s not much shade here.
- Swimming can be dangerous at times, particularly during monsoon season.
- It’s unsafe for women to walk alone on the beach after dark.
How to Get There
Calangute is located in North Goa, about an hour's drive from Goa International Airport near Vasco de Gama and a half-hour from Goa’s capital city of Panaji. Goa is well-connected by air and rail to most major Indian cities, and some charter flights fly directly from Europe to Goa, especially during high season.
When to Get There
Goa is increasingly enjoyed as a year-round destination, particularly as it gains popularity with domestic travelers. However, its high season peaks around Christmas and New Year’s, particularly in the north, when people travel from all over the world to party their way through the holidays. April and May can get hot, and the monsoons during the summer months deter a lot of visitors, though some prefer the quietness of this season.
Dine like a Goan
Goa has a rich culinary traditional all its own, blending traditional coastal Indian ingredients (including lots of seafood) with culinary elements brought in by the Portuguese, Goa’s former colonial rulers. Popular foods include fried fish, cashew-heavy curries, and pao, a sweet bread that’s more similar to Portuguese buns than to Indian flatbreads.
Address: Goa, India
From $ 35
Fort Aguada and Lighthouse
Perched on top of a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, Fort Aguada and its lighthouse once guarded the Portuguese colony against Dutch and Marathas invaders. Built in 1612, the fort is the best preserved and most impressive of any in Goa.
While the large moat and 79 cannons once served to protect India’s Portuguese colonies, Fort Aguada, named after the freshwater springs within its walls, also replenished water supplies of passing ships. The four-story Fort Aguada Lighthouse, built in 1864, is the oldest lighthouse of its kind anywhere in Asia.
The fort sits just over 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) south of Sinquerim Beach, and much of the walk is uphill. Unless you plan to take a taxi or bus, get an early start to tour the fort before the sun beating down on the bare stones makes things too hot for comfort. The fort has few shaded areas, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water with you.
While the large moat and 79 cannons once served to protect India’s Portuguese colonies, Fort Aguada, named after the freshwater springs within its walls, also replenished water supplies of passing ships. The four-story Fort Aguada Lighthouse, built in 1864, is the oldest lighthouse of its kind anywhere in Asia.
The fort sits just over 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) south of Sinquerim Beach, and much of the walk is uphill. Unless you plan to take a taxi or bus, get an early start to tour the fort before the sun beating down on the bare stones makes things too hot for comfort. The fort has few shaded areas, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water with you.
Address: Candolim, Goa, India
From $ 30
Panaji (Panjim)
In 1759, when repeated bouts of malaria, cholera and finally Bubonic plague overwhelmed the magnificent city of Old Goa, the colonial capital was relocated to Panaji (Panjim). Today, the narrow, winding cobblestone streets, whitewashed churches, Mediterranean-style buildings in every shade of pastel, and the easy-going attitude of the residents make Panaji a perfect home base for exploring nearby Old Goa.
Many visitors to Goa miss out on the cultural treasure that is Panaji as its crowded and polluted beaches don't fit the bill of a Goan beach vacation, but skipping the capital city for an extra day or two on the beach is a big mistake.
To really soak up the city, plan to spend a day exploring on foot. Be sure not to miss Fontainhas, an old residential quarter and home to the Chapel of Saint Sebastian. Also check out Sao Tome, Goa's old "Fleet Street" and the location of the General Post Office, housed within an old tobacco trading house.
Many visitors to Goa miss out on the cultural treasure that is Panaji as its crowded and polluted beaches don't fit the bill of a Goan beach vacation, but skipping the capital city for an extra day or two on the beach is a big mistake.
To really soak up the city, plan to spend a day exploring on foot. Be sure not to miss Fontainhas, an old residential quarter and home to the Chapel of Saint Sebastian. Also check out Sao Tome, Goa's old "Fleet Street" and the location of the General Post Office, housed within an old tobacco trading house.
Address: Goa, India
From $ 45
Reis Magos Fort
Situated on the banks of the Mandovi River, this scenic fort was built by the Portuguese in 1551 to protect the Mandovi estuary, and was reconstructed in 1707. It was abandoned for much of the 19th and 20th centuries before being turned into a prison. It was later restored and turned into the tourist attraction that it is today.
The Basics
While the fort is fun to explore, it’s the view that really makes it worth visiting. A trip up to the highest point of the structure is not to be missed, for the fabulous vantage point it offers to the forest and river below. Keep your eyes peeled for inscriptions around the grounds; one marks the spot where the remains of Dom Luis de Ataide, the Count of Atouguia and former Viceroy of Portuguese India and Goa, are interred.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The fort is a must-visit for history lovers and photographers.
- Bring sunscreen and bottled water, as the fort and the area around it can be hot and sunny.
- Wear good walking shoes, because access to the fort requires ascending a steep, mossy staircase.
How to Get There
Reis Magos Fort sits on the northern banks of the Mandovi River, just across from Panaji, but traveling from the fort to the state capital requires a 20-minute drive via the Mandovi Bridge. It's about a 25-minute drive to the fort from Calangute. Because local bus service can be slow, travelers without their own means of transport are best off hiring a taxi or joining a tour that stops at the fort.
When to Get There
The fort is open daily from 8am to 4:30pm and doesn't usually get too crowded. The best time to visit is early in the morning when temperatures are cooler, especially if your Goa visit coincides with the hot pre-monsoon season (roughly April and May).
Reis Magos Church
At the base of the fort sits Reis Magos Church, the first church in the Bardez area of Goa. This whitewashed house of worship was built in 1555 and dedicated to St. Jerome, though it's best known for its connection to the Three Wise Men (Reis Magos). Inside the church is a wooden relief depicting the three kings and the annual Epiphany feast (January 6), which honors the wise men's visit to the baby Jesus.
Address: Goa, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Old Goa (Ela)
From the sixteenth to eighteenth century, Old Goa (Ela) served as the colonial capital of Portuguese-India and was one of the richest cities anywhere in Asia, with a population exceeding that of both Lisbon and London. While repeated cholera and malaria outbreaks eventually forced the capital to be moved to Panaji in 1843, the old, atmospheric churches, cathedrals and convents of Old Goa remain largely intact.
All the sites of Old Goa can be reached by foot, but give yourself at least a half-day to soak up the history and the atmosphere. Old Goa highlights include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, where the remains of Francis Xaviar, patron saint of Goa, are kept. Another must-see attraction is St. Catherine’s Cathedral (Sé Cathedral), the largest church of those in Old Goa.
Food and accommodation options are rather limited in the Old Goa area, so it’s best to base yourself in nearby Panjim (or somewhere else in Goa) and either take a bus or hire a taxi for a day to Old Goa.
All the sites of Old Goa can be reached by foot, but give yourself at least a half-day to soak up the history and the atmosphere. Old Goa highlights include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, where the remains of Francis Xaviar, patron saint of Goa, are kept. Another must-see attraction is St. Catherine’s Cathedral (Sé Cathedral), the largest church of those in Old Goa.
Food and accommodation options are rather limited in the Old Goa area, so it’s best to base yourself in nearby Panjim (or somewhere else in Goa) and either take a bus or hire a taxi for a day to Old Goa.
Address: Goa, India
From $ 18
Shantadurga Temple
Surrounded by lush vegetation at the foothills of the village of Kavlem in the Ponda Taluka district of Goa, the Shantadurga Temple is dedicated to Shree Shantadurga, the goddess of peace. A small mud shrine of the goddess once sat at the site, which was then transformed into an elaborate temple in 1738, with further renovations in the 1960s.
According to Hindu mythology, the goddess is famous for playing mediator between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, taking Shiva by her left hand and Vishnu by her right to pacify the warring gods. This is why the idol of the goddess inside the Shantadurga Temple is flanked by statues of Shiva and Vishnu, and why she holds a serpent in each hand – to represent the gods.
Architecturally, the temple is a fusion of Indo-Portuguese styles. There is a main temple and three smaller temples for other deities built around it. The temple building features a series of pyramidal roofs with a dome.
Practical Info
The Shantadurga Temple is easily reached by road from Panaji, Goa’s state capital. All visitors must dress conservatively.
Address: Verem-Nerul Road, Panaji, Goa, India
From $ 44
Sahakari Spice Farm
Sahakari Spice Farm provides an excellent first introduction to India's spice-growing and production. Here you'll get to see where your spices come from and learn about how they’re grown, dried, and processed. If they’re daring enough, guests can also try their hand at swinging from betel-nut palms.
The Basics
This farm is situated on a 130-acre (53-hectare) plot, 60 acres (24 hectares) of which grow spices, herbs, and fruits. Plants here include cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, peppers, cloves, curry ginger, and turmeric; cashews, Goa's most famous crop, are also processed at the farm. Although spices are the star attraction at Sahakari, there’s also a rustic restaurant here where meals are served in earthenware pots or from plates made from banana leaves.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear sunscreen and bug spray.
- This farm is great for families traveling with children.
- Wheelchair users may face accessibility issues here.
How to Get There
The farm is located in Ponda, an inland town situated about an hour’s drive southeast of Panaji or half an hour from Old Goa. It’s not easy to get here by public transit, and it's a bit far to walk to from the Ponda town center. Travelers who don't have their own means of transportation (such as a motorscooter) are best off taking a taxi or coming as part of an organized tour.
When to Get There
Sahakari Spice Farm is open to visitors every day from 9:30am to 4:30pm. As many spices can grow year round, there's no ideal time to visit, though the monsoon rains from June through September can turn an otherwise pleasant farm visit into a muddy experience. Arrive first thing in the morning to avoid the unrelenting midday heat.
Buying Indian Spices
Visitors to India often like to pick up spices as souvenirs to bring back to their food-obsessed friends, but with myriad sold in markets across the country it can be hard to know where to start. Safe bets include classics such as turmeric (haldi) or cardamom (elaichi), though many travelers prefer to purchase premade spice mixes, such as garam masala (literally “hot spices,” used in all sorts of dishes) or spices for making masala chai, India’s most famous tea.
Address: Post Box No. 31, Curti, Ponda, Goa, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 45
Ancestral Goa Center
The Ancestral Goa Center offers an excellent introduction to Goan life. This living history museum was set up by a local artist. Included are a typical 19th-century Goan village, featuring traditional homes, displays of handicrafts such as pottery and cobbling, and even a replica of a sacred spring, plus lots of activities for kids.
The Basics
This fun attraction, also known as the Big Foot Museum (owing to its dance floor shaped like a huge foot), features carved sculptural depictions of Goan life, including figurines of people engaged in traditional trades, from potters to vegetable sellers. Workshops for kids focus on nature and include painting with natural dyes and a theme park that brings local kids from across economic backgrounds to play together for the day.
Travelers can join a tour that includes a guided visit to the Ancestral Goa Center and other cultural highlights. Some tours may include a traditional lunch featuring regional ingredients.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is largely outside, so wear sunscreen and a hat.
- The Ancestral Goa Center is well-suited to families with kids or anyone with an interest in local culture.
- Don't miss the center’s Sant Mirabai statue, which, at 14 meters long, is the largest laterite sculpture in the country.
How to Get There
This attraction is located in the inland town of Loutolim, in South Goa. It's about an hour away from Panaji by car, or a half-hour from Vasco da Gama, where the airport is located. The closest city is Margao, a 15-minute drive south of the museum. It’s hard to get to the Ancestral Goa Center via public transportation, so travelers should arrive by taxi or join an organized tour.
When to Get There
Goa is a year-round destination, though it’s definitely less crowded during the rainy monsoon season. As the museum is largely outside, it’s best to visit when the weather is dry. Travelers may want to arrive early to avoid the midday.
Goan Handicrafts
Goa offers all sorts of traditional crafts, though many locals have taken up newer, sometimes imported trades (such as batik) to keep up with demand from tourists. You’ll also see plenty of merchants from the Himalayan region of Kashmir selling jewelry, papier-mâché crafts, and clothing. Popular finds include wooden toys and kitchenware, brass work, terracotta pottery, and coconut carvings.
Address: Big Foot, Loutolim, Goa 403718, India
From $ 52
Palolem Beach
Nicknamed Paradise Beach, Palolem is among the most popular South Goa beaches, and for good reason. Its beautiful, clear waters and pale sand appeal to those searching for relaxation. Though there are certainly plenty of beach shacks, a few minutes' walk down the shore will bring you to quiet, uncrowded stretches of sand and sea.
The Basics
Palolem features a crescent-shaped cove offering shade palms, shacks, and restaurants, plus clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling and swimming, and a more peaceful social scene than you'll find on the beaches farther north. Instead of sound systems blaring trance music, you might spot beachgoers wearing headphones and dancing quietly to the beats of a silent disco. Visit Palolem independently or with a guide, as part of a snorkeling day trip.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This beach is great for families and couples who want to avoid the party scene up north.
- Wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat, as the sun here can be powerful.
- Palolem is generally safe for swimming, but stay out of the water if you see red warning flags on the beach
- Bikinis are fine on the beach, but men and women should dress more modestly before going into town.
How to Get There
Palolem Beach is located in South Goa, about 90 minutes' drive south from the airport near Vasco da Gama, where there are regular departures to most major Indian cities and a few international destinations. Palolem is about an hour and 45 minutes from Panaji, the state capital, and a 2-hour drive from Calangute and the busier stretch of beaches to the north.
When to Get There
Palolem's high season runs from November through February, with crowds peaking around Christmas and New Year's. Travelers visiting Goa during the holidays may want to choose South Goa over the north to avoid the constant parties and loud music, though there still will be plenty of festivities in Palolem. The monsoon season (June through August) is a pleasantly quiet time to visit, but unsuitable for swimming or sunbathing due to constant rains.
North vs. South Goa
In many ways, North and South Goa feel like two different states. Both have beautiful beaches, lush jungles and farmland, and strong cultural and culinary traditions. However, North Goa is best for those who want action: parties, museums, bars and restaurants, and shopping galore. South Goa appeals to those who want relaxation; there are still lovely places to eat, sleep, and spend your money, but the vibe is quieter and the beaches, prettier.
Address: Goa, India
From $ 92
Fort Aguada
Fort Aguada, the largest and best preserved of Goa’s Portuguese bastions, was constructed between 1609 and 1612 to protect Old Goa from Dutch enemies attacking via the Mandovi River. Set on a hill overlooking Aguada Bay and the Arabian Sea, the fort housed a freshwater spring that provided water to passing ships and gave the fort its name.
What remains of the sprawling fort remains largely intact, thanks in part to the fact that it was never taken by force during the four century rule of the Portuguese in Goa. Visitors can walk through the grounds to see the stone architecture, including the still-standing lighthouse. Thanks to its panoramic views, the fort is one of the most popular spots in the region to watch a sunset.
Practical Info
Fort Aguada is reachable via a 2.5-mile (4-kilometer), somewhat steep path starting and Sinquerim Beach. It’s also possible to take a taxi.
Address: Calangute Candolim Sinquerim Rd, Bardez, Goa, India 403515, India
From $ 35
St. Catherine's Cathedral (S e Cathedral)
The largest church in Goa and the seat of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, this huge white Portuguese Gothic structure was constructed from 1562 to 1619 to commemorate a Portuguese military victory over Goa that was won on the feast of Saint Catherine. Inside, images of the saint adorn the cathedral walls.
The Basics
A monument to Portuguese military might, this gargantuan white edifice contains gorgeous interiors full of religious art and relics. Among these is the Cross of Miracles, where some visitors have had visions of Christ on the cross. The cathedral also houses a bell tower with the largest bell in the state. Many travelers come as part of an organized tour to learn as much as possible about the cathedral’s architecture, artworks, and history.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visitors are expected to dress modestly, with clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.
- If you visit during Mass, be respectful to worshipers and do not take photos, converse, or walk around.
- The church is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in history or architecture.
How to Get There
St. Catherine’s Cathedral is a popular stop on most tours of Goa that focus on churches or Portuguese colonial history. Those traveling independently will need to get to Old Goa, where the cathedral is located; doing so requires a 20-minute drive or taxi ride from Panaji (the state capital), or about 40 minutes’ drive from Calangute.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open every day, from 7:30am to 6pm. Mass is held in the local language, Konkani, at 5:30am Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday; at 7:30am Thursday; and at 5pm Tuesday and Friday. Sunday services take place at 7:20am and 10am, and again at 4pm.
Who was St. Catherine?
Considered a Great Martyr by those following the Eastern Orthodox tradition, St. Catherine was a Christian princess and a scholar who was killed around age 18 at the hands of Emperor Maxentius, a pagan (though some believe her story comes from a revised telling of the story of the pagan Neoplatonic philosopher Hypatia). There are many legends surrounding the saint, and Joan of Arc claims that Catherine visited her in a vision.
Address: Goa, India
From $ 8
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Built at the turn of the 17th century by Florentine sculptor Giovanni Battista Foggini, this red-stone church is one of the oldest in India. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While it's dedicated to the baby Jesus, many people choose to visit because the basilica holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa.
The Basics
While the exterior of the Basilica de Bom Jesus is impressive, with an imposing facade made of red sandstone pulled from the sea, the interiors are particularly striking as well. Inside you'll find gold-gilded altars, white marble floors with stone inlay, and lots of paintings of St. Francis Xavier. The saint's tomb sits to the right of the altar, and his remains are displayed once per decade.
The basilica can be viewed as part of a day trip to Goa; visitors may choose a dedicated cultural heritage tour, or combine historical sights with beaches, markets, and more. Hop-on hop-off bus tours also stop at the basilica.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dress modestly out of respect for local culture, with your knees and shoulders covered.
- The basilica is arguably the most important church in Goa and it’s a must-visit for history buffs.
- If you come during Mass, stay in the pews and wait until the service is over before you walk around or take photos.
How to Get There
The basilica is situated in the heart of Old Goa, or Velha Goa as it's known locally, and virtually all tours of Old Goa stop here. It's about 20 minutes’ drive to Old Goa from Panaji, the state capital, or about 40 minutes from Calangute. If you're coming from farther north—such as from Anjuna or Chapora—give yourself at least an hour to get here.
When to Get There
The basilica is open Monday through Friday and on Sunday. It's closed Saturday, except during special religious services. Mass is held twice every morning on weekdays, and again once in the evening, with Sunday services in English and Konkani. The church also offers special programs for the Feast of St. Francis Xavier on December 3.
St. Francis Xavier: The Patron Saint of Goa
Francis Xavier was one of the founders of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). He traveled to India in 1542 as a missionary and is celebrated for the work he did to spread Catholicism in India, particularly in the South. However, he was also behind the Goa Inquisition, which led to severe punishments of Catholic people who were suspected of practicing Hinduism in secret.
Address: Old Goa, India
From $ 8
Dudhsagar Falls
At 1,017 feet (310 meters), Dudhsagar Falls is among the tallest waterfalls in India. At the base of the four-tiered falls is a huge swimming area—that’s as as far as most travelers go. A railway bridge crosses right under the falls, and if you happen to visit when a train is passing by you're sure to get some great photos.
The Basics
Dudhsagar means “sea of milk,” and although legend has it that the falls were formed when a bathing princess poured a jug of milk out, it's more likely that the falls got their name from the white color that forms as they plume down to the ground. Hiking up to the falls is popular but dangerous, so if you’re planning to go beyond the swimming area at the base, you’re better off embarking on that adventure with a guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you plan to hike up to the top of the falls, be sure to wear solid footwear—the trail can be slippery.
- The falls gets a lot of domestic visitors, and women should consider wearing covering their swimsuits out of respect for local modesty customs.
- The falls isn’t suitable for people for wheelchairs or others with limited mobility.
How to Get There
Dudhsagar Falls sit on the border of Goa and Karnataka, about a two-hour drive inland from Panaji, to the northwest of the falls, and Palolem, to the southwest. Although the roads are accessible by motorbike, travelers may find it easier to visit by taxi or as part of an organized tour. Sonalium Railway Station is a short jaunt from the falls, but trains aren’t allowed to stop there due to a lack of facilities (or even a platform).
When to Get There
The monsoon season in Goa, which can start as early as June and go through September, fills the falls with water and has the potential to washing out the roads and paths leading up to them. Therefore, the best time to visit is in October or November, right after the monsoon season but when water levels are still high.
Hiking in Goa
Hiking—called trekking in India, even if it's just a short jaunt—is a popular activity among domestic and international visitors alike. Most head up to the northern regions and the Himalayan foothills, but Goa and South India offer a fair few long-distance hikes of their own. The Dudhsagar trek, for instance, involves a mix of gravel roads and railway tracks. Other popular trekking areas include the surrounding Mollem National Park and the Krishnapur Canyon near the border with Maharashtra.
Address: Goa, India
From $ 66
Anjuna Beach
Popular among international backpackers, Anjuna has long been associated with the hippie lifestyle. It's more laid-back than some of the livelier beaches a few miles south, though. Its big draw is the numerous beachfront shacks serving delicious, affordable Indian and international fare well into the wee hours.
The Basics
Anjuna was once the heart of hippie life in Goa. Later this beach morphed into ground-zero for the electronic music party scene that prevailed in the state, and now it's more of a relaxed beach destination. Anjuna is also well-known for its Wednesday flea market, where Indian and international vendors sell festival fashion, hash pipes, and more. Visit Anjuna as part of a private tour of Goa attractions, including Fort Aguada and other area beaches.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you’re visiting the Anjuna flea market, remember to bargain.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat, as the sun here can be powerful.
- Access to this beach requires walking down a narrow pathway with lots of steps.
How to Get There
Anjuna is situated in North Goa, a little more than an hour’s drive from Goa International Airport near Vasco de Gama, and 45 minutes from the capital city, Panaji. Visitors who are not traveling as part of an organized tour will need a car or motorbike, as public transportation is time-consuming and unreliable, and taxis are overpriced. There are regular direct flights from most major Indian cities to Goa throughout the year.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit Anjuna is Wednesday mornings, when the weekly Flea Market takes place. It’s held every week from the beginning of October through the end of May. Evenings are also popular, especially during the winter months, when beach shack restaurants (notably Curlies and Shiva Valley) hold regular live electronic music events that sometimes last well into the night.
Goa Trance Music
Goa is known by Electronic Dance Music lovers around the world as the birthplace of Goa trance, a type of EDM that’s characterized by faster tempos than are found in other popular electronic genres. Popular artists include Goa Gil (considered by many as the genre's godfather), Infected Mushroom, Juno Reactor, 1200 Micrograms, and Hallucinogen (of the popular electronic group Shpongle).
Address: Goa, India
From $ 35
Fontainhas
Situated on the banks of Ourem Creek in Panaji, Goa's capital city, the charming neighborhood of Fountainhas is dotted with charming old homes dating back to the mid 19th century. Fontainhas occupies land that was reclaimed in the 18th century and gets its name from the natural springs situated at the edge of the area.
The Basics
This charming area attracts travelers with its old-fashioned Portuguese-style architecture: beautiful old houses painted in pastel hues of yellow, green, blue, and pink with large balconies and red tiled roofs. It’s a fun place to wander and take photos, whether independently or as part of a group. Some heritage tours involve walks through the area, and many visitors end up stopping by the 1818 Chapel of St. Sebastian, a highlight of the neighborhood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, as this area is best explored on foot.
- Fontainhas is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone with an interest in old architecture.
- Don’t forget your camera; this is one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
How to Get There
Fontainhas is located just across the Rio de Ourem from the more modern commercial hub of Panaji, and it takes about 15 minutes to get there by foot from the Panjim Bus Stand. If you're visiting Panaji from North Goa, you'll need at least a half hour to get there by car from Calangute or about 45 minutes to an hour from Anjuna and Vagator.
When to Get There
Because Fontaihas is an outdoor destination, it’s wise to visit either early in the morning, when temperatures are at their most manageable and the light is still good for photography, or in the evening, when the area begins to cool down and locals come out to walk around. If you visit in February, don’t miss the Fontainhas Festival, a week-long event celebrating art and culture in the neighborhood.
The Chapel of Saint Sebastian
Most visitors make a point of stopping at the Chapel of St Sebastian, situated at the southern end of the area on a small square where locals traditionally celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Livrament. Inside the chapel is a crucifix that used to hang inside of the Palace of the Inquisition in Old Goa, one featuring an eerie image of Christ with his eyes open.
Address: Panaji, Goa, India, India
From $ 18