Top Things to Do in the Goa | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

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Places To Visit In Goa

Mangeshi Temple

Mangeshi Temple or Shri Mangueshi Temple is Lord Shiva temple located in the Mangeshi village in Ponda region of Goa. The largest and most visited temple in Goa, it is built in the honour of Bhagwan Manguesh, the Kuldevata of Gaud Saraswat Brahmins. The deity is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva, whose name was derived from "Mam Girisha" the words used by Goddess Parvati when Lord Shiva made a successful attempt to scare her by taking the form of a Tiger. The Mangeshi Temple complex also houses shrines of Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesha along with other deities. Lord Shiva is worshipped here in the form of Shiva Linga. This Mangesh Linga is believed to have been consecrated on Mongir mountain along the banks of the Bhagirathi River by Lord Brahma. The 450-year old temple is known for its stunning architecture with grand domes and a magnificent water tank. Read More

Located on Altinho Hill overlooking Fontainhas district in Panjim, the majestic Maruti Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. One of the most beautiful temples in Goa, the idol of Lord Hanuman can be viewed from the main road through an opening in the basement of the temple. A refreshing stream also flows beside the temple, lending it a calming and yet, refreshing aura. The temple is stunningly lit up at night and is visible from a distance. Maruti Temple was built after the decline of the Portuguese reign. The idol of Lord Hanuman was hidden when the Portuguese destroyed all the Hindu temples in Goa to promote Christianity. It was at this location that the devotees would offer their prayers secretly till the end of the Portuguese reign. A beautiful shrine was later built here, the architecture of which draws tourists every year. Read More

Located in Panjim, Goa, Menezes Braganza Institute was established in the late 1800s by the Portuguese as a cultural institute. It was previously known as the Institute of Vasco da Gama and was started with the intention of focussing on cultural, scientific, and literary fields. After the fall of the Portuguese, the institute was renamed after Luis Menezes Braganza who campaigned against the Portuguese. The institute now holds cultural activities on a regular basis for the public. Read More

One of the only two beaches in Panjim, Miramar Beach is the longest beach in Goa stretching as far as 2 km. This beach is located on the confluence point of Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea, thus affording a spectacular sea view and panoramic view of Aguada Fort. Miramar Beach with silvery sand and palm trees is popular for picnics, barbecue parties, water sports and dolphin spotting cruises. Some beach shacks and restaurants line the Miramar Beach which are known for their seafood. This beach is good for a quiet stroll and swimming. Read More

Mobor Beach is a tranquil beach located in South Goa, a few minutes' walk from the famous Cavelossim Beach. It is a unique beach with water on three sides and is an extension of Cavelossim Beach, located towards the southern side by the confluence of the delightful river Sal with the Arabian Sea. The popular activities at Mobor Beach are watersports, dolphin spotting cruise, bird spotting and cruising along the River Sal. Mobor Beach is often mistaken for a private beach, as a portion of it is owned by some famous luxury hotel chains. Because of this misconception, the crowds at the beach are largely filtered, making it one of the fancier beaches in Goa. Mobor Beach also provides visitors with the opportunity to engage in some of the more exclusive water activities like underwater fishing and oyster catching. Read More

Mollem National Park part of the famous Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is the biggest national park in Goa that takes you on a fascinating wildlife adventure. Jeep safaris take the tourists right into the heart of the dense forest reserve, bringing them closer to the vibrant wildlife. It is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for all nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Touring the park during the monsoon season is a great leisure activity. Read More

Church Of St. Augustine is a ruined church complex which was once the biggest church in Goa. Located near Nunnery of Santa Monica in Old Goa, there stands a solo tower (called St Augustine Tower) out of the four towers once forming the Church Of St. Augustine. Completed in 1602, it is a part of World Heritage Site, Churches and convents of Goa. Church Of St. Augustine is a 17th-century structure, believed to be built by the Augustinian friars but today, mostly seen in ruins. The dilapidated but splendid tower of the church can be seen from a distance and one can gauge the grandiosity of the monastery when it was completely intact. Though most of the church complex is in ruins, it is considered worth a visit for people interested in archaeology and ruin sites. Read More

Monsoon Fun Park is situated near the Baga Beach in Goa and is a hub of water and fun adventurous activities. It offers a complete packages of fun games for both the kids and the adults. The place attracts a large tourist influx during the season.

Morjim Beach is one of the most tranquil beaches of North Goa. Located a little south of Aswem beach, it serves as a nesting habitat for Olive Ridley Turtles. This earns Morjim Beach another moniker, namely the Turtle Beach. The 3km long beach is ideal for a long walk and relishing the sunset view. Tourists mostly visit Morjim Beach to spend a lazy afternoon at the beach shacks and sunbeds. Morjim Beach is also locally known as 'Little Russia' as a significant number of Russians visit the area and make it a point to stay here for more than a month. Consequently, the place is full of Russian signboards and shops that sell Russian cuisine. Some of the popular activities at Morjim Beach are water sports activities, dolphin sightings, diving with the seagulls and kite flying. Read More

Mormugao Fort is one of the top coastal forts in Goa, located at Mormugao port, a few km from Vasco de Gama. A popular tourist attraction, it was built in the early 17th century by the Portuguese to protect the Margoa Port. Overlooking the Varca Beach, the grand fort commands a fabulous view of the scenic landscape and the beautiful Arabian Sea. Though most of the fort is presently in ruins, the bastions and bulwarks still stand tall and fortify the area. There are also two stunning fountains here - Fonte de Malabar and the Fonte Santo Ignacio. These are believed to have originated from a gold and sulphur mine. The original fort included towering bulwarks, prison blocks and accommodation for the garrison. Read More