We compare the resorts of the South and north goa Q: Where is the best place to relax? We describe the most famous beaches. We choose the best for different categories of vacationers.

Decided to relax in Goa? Surely you are faced with the question of which resort to choose. It is difficult to say where it is better - in the north or south of Goa, this is subjective. Let's see how parts of the state differ, which ones have features and who are more suitable. Based on this, you can make your choice.

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North or South Goa: which is better?

north goa suitable for those who do not seek to emphasize their importance and social status. The north of the state became popular thanks to the hippie movement. Now its beaches have been chosen by supporters of other informal movements, young people leading a hectic nocturnal lifestyle, and downshifters. There are few expensive hotels here, more budget housing - guesthouses and the private sector.

The north is famous for trance parties and youth festivals taking place on outdoors. Most beaches are noisy and crowded, so their cleanliness suffers. In addition, you will have to get used to the sight of sacred cows on the beaches, which are forbidden to touch here.

Are you accustomed to measuring the quality of your vacation with hotel stars? Then you better go to resorts South Goa. There are expensive and respectable hotels, clean and mostly sparsely populated beaches. The main drawback is the lack of leisure. In addition to beach activities, there will be practically nothing to occupy yourself with.

For holidays with children, choose a hotel with a large territory and private beach, special meals, babysitting and animation. All this can be found in some hotels in the south of the state. According to tourists, in the noisy and not too decent North Goa, it is better for young people to relax.

On the beaches you can go diving, surfing and kiting, or go on an excursion. Vacationers in the south are entertained with trips to the Kotigao nature reserve and the Cabo de Rama fort, in the north - to the abandoned city of Hampi palaces, to Panaji and Old Goa.

(Photo © Sergi Hill / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Prices traditionally higher in the south, and more accessible in the north. Would you like to buy local handicrafts as souvenirs? Visit local markets: jewelry and leather goods, glasses, bags, clothing made from natural fabrics - all this is in abundance. In the northern part of the state, the flea market in Anjuna and Panaji is very popular. In the south, a good market is only in Margao. In Colva and Cavelossim, they mainly sell food and spices.

So where is the best place to relax? South Goa differs from North Goa not only in beaches: there is a calm atmosphere here. The south is more often chosen by foreigners, the exception is Colva. There are no large shopping centers, only small shops in the villages. People come here for a relaxing beach holiday, fishing, and water sports.

North Goa has a more developed infrastructure. Active nightlife, crazy parties and on-air discos attract young people, locals and informals.

(Photo © karthik c / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0)

Where is the best place to relax in North Goa

The beaches of North Goa are significantly inferior to the South in their beauty, they come across even with grayish coarse sand. The most popular beaches are in Anjuna, Arambol, Morjim and Calangute.

Quiet and calm in Aguade and Mandrem, so they come here with children. Relatively clean beach with grayish-white sand in Arambole. Tourists in the reviews note that it is on this beach that it is best to relax. This place is loved by travelers who come to Goa for a long time. Guesthouses and bungalows, numerous shacks (beach cafes) stretch along the beach. There is a yoga center. The contingent here is very different, the beach is long - everyone can find appropriate place for swimming.

Young people prefer a noisy, crowded beach in Anjuna. True, swimming is slightly spoiled by pebbles and algae. Very popular beach Calangute, where there are many entertainment venues on the coast. A favorite place for fans of Goan trance and illegal parties is the beach Vagator. Nearby is the village of Chapora with a fish market and cafes.

Fans of water sports - windsurfing and kiting - it is better to relax in Goa on the Russian beach Morjim, as well as on the beaches of Ashvem and Candolim. Divers prefer Baga Beach.

(Photo © Ian D. Keating / flickr.com / CC BY 2.0)

Where is the best place to relax in South Goa

The beaches in the south of the state are clean and not crowded. The sand is fine, golden or white. The most deserted beaches are Velsao, Cansaulim, Arossim and Utorda.

Well-maintained beach Bogmalo surrounded on all sides by palm trees. It is famous for its restaurants where seafood is cooked well. There is also a diving school here.

Beach Palolem with white sand is located south of all the others. There is a convenient gentle entrance to the sea and dense vegetation. People like to come here with children to watch the dolphins swimming up to the shore. Not far from Palolem is big beach Agonda. Agonda and Palolem have the most motley contingent.

Beach Colva popular with locals, especially at weekends. If you wish, you can find solitude here, just a little away from the center.

Benaulim practically deserted. People come here not just to relax, but to live. From the shore you can often see frolicking dolphins. Mobor- a wide beach with clean yellow sand, there are many expensive hotels. A little further is the beach. Cavelossim. Both places are popular with couples, seniors and respectable travelers.

Intro Image Source: © Swami Stream / flickr.com / CC BY 2.0.

Goa, whose territory is only 3,702 km², is washed in the west by the warm and clear waters of the Arabian Sea, which predetermined its development as a resort. Geographically, this is really a small region: the length from north to south is 105 km, from west to east - about 65 km. Its northern neighbor is the state of Maharashtra, and from the south and east, as if hugging its little "brother", the territory of the state of Karnataka adjoins. The coastline of the paradise resort is indented by the mouths of the rivers, the largest of which are Mandovi, Chapora and Zuari. Most of the waterways originate in the Western Ghats (the Sahyadri mountain range).

The climate of the “Indian pearl” and “the island of love and freedom”, as Goa is often called, has a typically subequatorial character, the dry and wet seasons of which are pronounced. In the period from May to October, the region is dominated by hot, humid (73%) weather. May is also the hottest month: the air temperature warms up to its maximum +33 °C. The monsoon season begins in June and ends in October. The resort is getting a little cooler, the thermometer shows from 25 to 30 degrees above zero. This period of the year is characterized by the highest amount of precipitation. In July alone, 1000 mm falls, which is almost one and a half times the annual level in Moscow.

The dry season in "Goa Dorada" ("Golden Goa") - as the local population calls their small homeland - starts in mid-December and lasts through February. The average temperature of the resort "winter" ranges from +10 ... +15 ° С, however, the thermometer often rises to +31 during the day and +20 degrees at night. Precipitation during these months, if any, is extremely rare.

Yoga practice by the sea

History of Goa

Fans of the Indian epic Mahabharata probably know that one of the sources where Goa is mentioned for the first time is this epoch-making work. True, there it has a different name - Gomantak, which in Sanskrit means "fertile land." But in the Sumerian chronicles dating back to about 2200 BC, the future resort is listed under the name "Gubio". In the III century BC. e. its territory was part of the Mauryan Empire, a state in ancient India that gained historical significance after the campaigns of Alexander the Great.

Rock paintings in Usgalimal, which are over 20,000 years old

After the collapse of this huge power, a geopolitical battle for the possession of Goa began, as they would say now. In 1312, he passed to the Muslims, but six decades later they were supplanted by the Vyavinagar Empire. AT XIV-XV centuries the territory was part of the Vijayanagar Empire, which occupied the entire south of India beyond the Krishna River. The harbors of the ports of Goa at that time were used as a sea gate, through which the Vijayanagara cavalry was replenished with first-class Arabian horses.

The unique natural landscape of this area could not fail to attract the attention of the Portuguese, who arrived here in 1510. Portugal was interested in trade routes through which spices were supplied to Europe from the East, and she sought to establish control over them. In addition, foreigners, being zealous Christians, sought to spread their faith to new lands. The symbiosis of these tasks led to the fact that in the same year, the first Portuguese colony in India was founded by Duke Afonso d'Albuquerque, and Goa became this colony. In 1542, Catholic missionaries led by Saint Francis Xavier arrived here. As the new religion spread, temples and churches began to be built on this small piece of land, which have survived to this day - for example, the world-famous Jesus Basilica (Bom Jesus Basilica) in Old Goa. Even today they never cease to amaze with their unique architecture.

Goa Market Square, 1583

Over time, Goa received a great impetus for development. The Turks, who traded in spices and monopoly controlled the trade routes in the Indian Ocean, were expelled from the "money place". The territory received the status of a viceroyalty within the Portuguese Empire. However, the distant metropolis was unable to control possessions in India. In 1787 an attempt was made to overthrow Portuguese rule. The event went down in history as the Goa Conspiracy, or the Dos Pintos Conspiracy (translated as the Chicken Conspiracy). The reason was the dissatisfaction of many military, clergy and indigenous people with racial discrimination in promotion. The conspiracy, however, was discovered, and its participants were severely punished, many were hanged and quartered.

In addition, in the 17th century, the struggle with the British, French and Dutch did not stop. As a result, already in the next century, Portuguese sovereignty over Goa was significantly weakened, and during the period when Europe was shaken by the expansion of Napoleon, the British occupied the colony. True, for a short time.

AT late XIX century, the struggle for independence flared up with renewed vigor, but only the collapse of the Portuguese Empire in 1910 gave it a powerful impetus. Complete liberation from the colonialists brought an armed invasion of India in 1961, known as "Operation Vijay". It lasted 36 hours, during the fighting, 30 Portuguese and 22 Indians were killed. The military action, which ended with the annexation of the former colony, caused a mixed reaction in the world. Portugal severed diplomatic relations with India, it was supported by the United States. The Soviet Union, on the contrary, took the side of the latter, vetoing a UN Security Council resolution calling on that country to immediately cease fire and withdraw its troops. After the conflict, Goa received the status of a union territory, and in 1987 it was proclaimed a full Indian state. The language issue was also resolved: Konkani, common on the west coast (Konkan region), was recognized as the official language of the territory.

Goa beaches

If in the past Goa was shaken by political and military battles, today peace and tranquility reign in this paradise, and the life of a popular resort is concentrated in the coastal area. Legends can be made about local beaches, among which there is not a single private one (everything is run by the state). Basically, the coast here is sandy, the depth increases gradually when entering the sea - one can only dream of such comfort! The water, of course, cannot be called crystal clear, but it is at the complete disposal of vacationers: local fish do not swim here. And although the sand is not sifted, the garbage is regularly removed: during this activity you can meet girls with baskets in their hands.

Well, now about the beaches. It is impossible to tell about all, so let's focus on some of the most famous.

Let's start with the most picturesque beach in Goa, Om. Its name has nothing to do with the name of the outstanding German physicist of the 19th century, as someone might have thought. It goes back to the sound "Om", which, according to Hindu beliefs, marked the beginning of the universe. Since the narrow strip of the beach, bounded by a lush tropical forest, resembles the writing of this sound in its form, this place of rest was named so. We’ll immediately upset surfers: you won’t be able to ride the waves due to shallow water. To dive at least up to your shoulders, you will have to walk along the rocky bottom for a long time. But the ocean temperature here is comfortable, and the black rocks, contrasting with the white sand, look great against the background of the water surface and tropical thickets. There are several small restaurants scattered around the beach, the menu and prices will pleasantly surprise you. Some of them even have free Wi-Fi.

One of the most famous beaches in Goa is Palolem. It is located in the south of the state, 67 km from Dabolim International Airport. In many guidebooks, Palolem Beach is described as the most heavenly place in Goa. However, as you know, everyone has their own paradise. In addition to foreign tourists vacationing in Goa, many Indians from neighboring states come here. Palolem is as popular with local residents as the resorts of Sochi in Russia. Therefore, if you are looking for peace and quiet, then you are definitely not here. The coastline of Palolem is about two kilometers long. This beach is cleaned and tidied up daily, which is why it ranks #1 in South Goa's Best Beaches for cleanliness. Palolem is located in the bay, and therefore there are no big waves here. Reviews of tourists repeatedly mention the bright colors of Palolem. This is emphasized by the houses painted in festive, cheerful colors. Palolem is a place of all sorts of parties and is great for young people, fun is guaranteed here!

Fans of a quiet, relaxing holiday prefer Arossim beach with its deserted coast, the finest white sand and the emerald-colored sea. Three shacks are at the service of vacationers - this is how small and quite decent shacks selling food and drinks are called in Goa. In one of them - Venus - Russian-speaking staff. Here you will not meet annoying merchants or idle cows and dogs, but you will see another local "attraction" - crows clinging to tourists. The main attraction (without quotes) on Arossim is the Church of St. Thomas the Apostle. From the entertainment on the beach, you can highlight fishing and sea trips on a boat, jet ski and water skiing. How much will the rent cost? You can find out about this from the locals.

Arossim beach

Vainiginim beach is rightly called a paradise. Located in South Goa, at the mouth of the Zauri River, it is also suitable for lovers of a quiet and measured rest. The length of the beach is only 200 meters, the sand is of an unusual bright yellow color, and the sea water pleases the eye with a bright turquoise hue. The only sad thing is that it is not completely clean - this is even recorded on satellite photographs. Strong currents are not uncommon here, and in order not to fall into the whirlpool, one must be extremely careful. Taking sunbaths, you can use the sunbeds of the local five-star hotel - the only one on the beach. For entertainment, scooter rentals are available.

Now let's move to Betalbatim - a small village in the southern part of the resort, surrounded by pine trees and having a beautiful 600-meter beach. The sand on the coast is light in color and fine, there is almost no debris on it. The entrance to the water is quite gentle, and this is a real gift for those who swim poorly or come on vacation with children. On Betalbatima beach, if you come for a long time, you can sign up for a diving school. Among other entertainments, we will highlight the rental of boats, a walk on which promises to meet friendly dolphins. Sunsets are very beautiful: one wants to look and look at nature, languidly dressing in twilight “clothes”.

On the north coast of Goa, one of the most famous can be called Kerim Beach, where you will also be provided with a quiet and relaxing holiday. From the sound background, only the sound of the surf and the cries of sea gulls can be distinguished, but all this does not count if the tourist wants to escape from a large crowd of vacationers and merge with nature. The beach is quite large, it stretches for as much as two kilometers in length, and reaches a width of 20 meters. One thing is depressing: here and there heaps of branches are piled up on the territory, which the local authorities do not seem to care about. And one more thing: remember that the beach is secluded, the waves here are almost always high, so it’s better not to fall under them - there will be no one to save you. On this piece of land untouched by civilization, there are no sun loungers, no water equipment rental, not to mention souvenir shops.

On the beach of Bogmalo, in the south of Goa, there is an excellent sandy shore surrounded by palm trees. All the necessary infrastructure is at the service of vacationers, including cafes, bars, restaurants (the menu includes not only local, but also European dishes) and the first diving school in India. From the beach equipment you will be offered sunbeds and umbrellas. In walks on the sand, the “company” of vacationers is often made up of cows. The waves along the entire length of the 600-meter coast are relatively large, so you need to climb them with extreme caution. If an emergency situation does arise, rescuers will immediately rush to help, not recommending, by the way, to swim very far. Shoals of dolphins come to the beach every now and then, usually in the afternoon, and wait for their favorite delicacy from the hands of tourists - ice cream.

Attractions Goa

Goa, this unique corner on the map of India with a rich history and ethno-cultural diversity, is gradually ceasing to be associated only with beaches. You can spend your time here not only sunbathing and sea bathing, but also getting food for the mind and heart. Such an opportunity for inquisitive foreigners is opened up by local attractions, which is why this state is also called the “Big Book of Wisdom”.

Let's start our acquaintance with the historical and cultural heritage of the resort from the impregnable fortress of Aguada (not to be confused with the municipality of the same name in Puerto Rico on the west coast of the Atlantic). It was built of red stone in 1612 during the time of the Portuguese. The fort is located on the outskirts of Candolim beach and is one of the largest defense structures. It consists of two parts. Fresh water was stored in the upper one, which gave the name to the whole structure, and the lower one served as the coastal protection of Old Goa, the former capital of the Portuguese colony. The fortification capabilities of the fortress are still in demand today: part of the premises is used as a prison. According to rumors, foreigners are serving sentences there for the use or distribution of drugs.

Just 60 km from Panaji is one of the largest waterfalls in the whole country - Dudhsagar. Untouched by civilization, the tropical forest complements its magical water extravaganza, moreover, harmoniously merges with it, creating a unique landscape that will not leave anyone indifferent. When is the best time to visit the waterfall? Experienced tourists advise: from November to February. The fact is that in spring it is very hot and humid here, and in summer the river can cut off the path to the sights, which overflows after heavy rainfall.

On the rocks of the Western Ghats, not far from Old Goa, the Arvalem waterfall rushes from a 50-meter height. The noise of its streams, forming a lake below, is clearly audible already for several kilometers. Not far from the waterfall is the temple of Sri Rudreshwar, to which a stone staircase leads. Having visited this place, one cannot ignore the man-made caves of Arval. They were hollowed out by wandering Buddhists and used as housing. It is believed that the caves appeared around the 5th-6th centuries. They are five tunnels connecting to a large common hall the size of two hockey fields. The Sanskrit inscriptions that have been preserved on the walls are about eight centuries old.

Have you heard of the Bandla Game Reserve, the smallest in Goa? If not, then it's time to find out about it, and upon arrival at the resort - be sure to visit. Its territory is only 8 km², which in no way detracts from the opportunities for leisure, including family, available here. This place is really one of the most popular among tourists, because it helps to get away from the sun and the sea and plunge into a completely different reality. First of all, this applies to children. Your children will definitely remember a walk through the zoo, a visit to the playroom, riding a mini steam locomotive and even - but only with their parents! - on a real elephant. There is also a botanical garden with rare beauty trees and other vegetation at the service of adults and children.

One of the hallmarks of Goa, its highlight, are spice plantations, the aroma of which will never be forgotten. Vanilla, cardamom, cloves and other fragrant herbs you will see, as they say, "live", because a large number of such herbal "gardens" are scattered throughout the state. Gourmets will experience a special pleasure when they have to taste dishes generously seasoned with brightly colored spice powder in local establishments. In Goa, excursions to these plantations are popular, which are sold directly in impromptu street tour agencies. The program of the stay also includes an elephant ride, a delicious lunch and, of course, a belly dance performed by charming Indian dancers. The most famous plantations in the resort: Sahakari Spice Farms, Savoi Plantation, Pascoal, Tropical Spice Plantation. Most of them are located a few kilometers from the city of Ponda. By the way, excursions to the plantation include a visit to the already mentioned Dudhsagar waterfall.

Among the most popular routes among tourists is St. Catherine's Cathedral in Old Goa, the largest Christian building not only in India but throughout Asia. Visitors appreciate its architecture, style and interior decoration. There is everything that should be in a full-fledged temple: an altar, a font and, of course, bells. In the cathedral, according to the legend, is stored ... "growing cross" - a unique shrine, there is no other like it anywhere else. According to legend, he appeared in one of the chapels back in the 17th century thanks to a local shepherd. At the moment of making the cross, Jesus Christ himself appeared to him. What the Messiah and the mere mortal were talking about is unknown. But when after that the cross was placed in the chapel, it began to grow and already became the size of a crucifix on Calvary. It is said that its growth continues today.

We will complete our brief acquaintance with the sights of Goa at the Cotigao nature reserve, which is located in the south of the state, some 12 km from Palolem beach, one of the most beautiful in the resort. Everyone whose foot steps here can feel like a real Mowgli, because the main beauty of the reserve is the multi-story jungle. You will not meet here the graceful Bagheera, the wise Akela or the bloodthirsty Sher Khan, but good company you will be made up of playful monkeys that live here in abundance. Nature Park spread over 60 km south of the capital Goa, on the banks of the Talpona River. In the depths of the forest are two 25-meter observation towers, which are the main attractions of Cotigao. They offer a stunning view of the watering place of wild animals that come here early in the morning and late in the evening. Take a closer look, maybe Kipling's four-legged heroes from his "The Jungle Book" will be among them?

What to bring to memory

Discovering the amazing harmony of Goa, getting to know natural wealth, history, architecture and traditions of the former Portuguese colony will be incomplete if you do not find time for shopping. Walking through local retail outlets can be more than an exciting experience. The choice of goods for various purposes is huge here, and it is simply a sin not to use it.

Goa state supermarkets have fixed prices, which cannot be said about other stores. In addition, most of the goods in them are usually exhibited without price tags. This is explained by the so-called double prices: for the local population they are one, for tourists - others, an order of magnitude higher. Feel free to bargain, do it confidently, with a smile on your face, and in just a couple of minutes of “negotiations” with the seller, you can achieve a discount of at least 20%. If you are very lucky, you will be able to buy the selected product 2-3 times cheaper than the initial cost.

Separately, it should be said about the local markets, which literally filled the small state. They look like twins, and the range offered is largely focused on tourists. What is not here: beach and household equipment, exotic fruits and local souvenirs, represented by various amulets, figurines and, of course, elephants in all possible versions (except, of course, living specimens). Perhaps the most popular souvenir market in Goa is Anjuna, which got its name in honor of the surrounding village. The Sunday market immediately attracts attention with its colorful stalls, their stalls literally sag with an abundance of goods - fabrics and ready-made clothes, jewelry and handicrafts. Rich, of course, and the choice of spices and fruits. Shopping in Anjuna is invariably accompanied by fire shows and ethnic drum music, which is somewhat reminiscent of the carnival in Rio, but in Indian style.

Another place favorable for shopping in Goa is called Arambol, a village in the very north of the resort coast, located in a picturesque bay. It is very popular with our compatriots, who note that the prices here are very low, ranging from exotic fruits to Ayurvedic preparations.

So, what to bring as a souvenir from a trip to Goa? Indian ceramics are in demand: souvenir mugs, clay toys, luxurious dishes with a diameter of a whole meter, fanciful design ashtrays, lamps, bowls and much more. Local pottery is distinguished by unusually bright and rich colors. Buyers especially like the indigo blue painting - this color is perceived as business card India. Where to buy high quality ceramics? In the markets or in the network of specialty shops "Goa Handigrafts".

Local outlets offer a wide selection of leather goods. Lovely ladies can please themselves with an elegant handbag or original shoes, and the representatives of the stronger sex - with a leather wallet, a case for glasses or ... a camel skin water bottle called "Kopi". Tourists who do not count money buy ... leather saddles. Yes, not simple ones, but souvenir ones: they are trimmed with precious metal, painted and geometric patterns are applied.

The most practical and at the same time classic souvenirs from India are local carpets. There are a huge number of manufacturing techniques, so we will not dwell on them. It is enough to list the names: akhri, gabba, namda, dope. Name any of them, and the seller will immediately demonstrate the corresponding sample. The purpose of carpet products is also different. Russians and Europeans most often buy wall hangings that stand out for their ornate ornaments, which can be hung at home. But tourists, for example, from Islamic countries will definitely want to purchase special prayer mats.

In Indian films, which are loved by our mothers and grandmothers, the characters often flaunt various jewels. It is the same in life: this large country is one of the world's top five jewelry manufacturers, and Goa is not far behind the rest of India. The pride of the popular resort is rightfully called first-class pearls, from which local craftsmen make original women's bracelets and bangles worn on the wrist or ankle. Prices jump, directly depending on the degree of purity of the metal and the quality of work, but you can still find an inexpensive silver or gold item - for example, a beautiful ring. Most importantly, do not forget to bargain and do not lose vigilance. Unscrupulous sellers often overestimate the samples of gold and try to slip artificial analogues instead of natural gems. If you are quickly discounted, this should alert you: jewelry anywhere in the world, even in India, cannot be sold for next to nothing.

And, of course, not a single tourist will leave Goa without local gifts of nature - environmentally friendly products that have become the hallmark of not only this region, but the whole country. The taste of local tropical fruits - oranges, passion fruit, mangoes, carambola, guava, bananas - will remain in your memory forever! Yes, we almost forgot about Indian tea, known throughout the world. Traditional black and green, as well as Assam and Darjeeling varieties are in great demand. The latter belongs to the elite, it is even compared with champagne, thereby emphasizing the golden hue of the infusion and the exquisite delicate aroma. Gourmets also buy "exotic" red tea, which is cultivated far from Goa, in the Nilgiri district in the south of the country.

Entertainment in Goa

Beach holidays, sightseeing trips and wellness treatments right in the hotels - this is not a complete list of what a tourist can do in this paradise resort. Travelers who love gambling can try their luck at Goa's many casinos, immersing their visitors around the clock in a world where their secret dream of a big win can come true.

Fans of active sports will not be left behind: the local coast of the Arabian Sea, famous for its coral reefs, is the best suited for diving, during which exotic tropical fish will keep divers company. According to some reports, about 600 wrecked ships lie at the bottom of the sea off the coast of Goa, including not only old galleons and merchant ships, but also military ships of the Second World War period. Seeing this underwater "cemetery" is a real find that every diver dreams of.

Whenever you come to Goa, you will definitely get to some national holiday in India, which everyone can participate in. In winter, for example, the country celebrates the Day of the Republic and the Feast of the Three Kings. Celebrations in honor of the goddess Shantadurga Prasanna are very exciting in the village of Fatorpe: night processions are arranged, their scope and magnificence are simply amazing. In the spring, Hindus celebrate the birthday of the god Rama and the festival of "walking on fire" - Igitun Chalne, dedicated to the goddess Lairaya. During its participants walk on fire in the literal sense - on hot coals. Summer holidays are also dedicated to various saints, including Christian ones, for example, John the Baptist and St. Anthony. There are also many holidays in autumn, and the most famous of them is Govardhana Puja, dedicated to the most revered animal in India - the cow.

Buses run between towns and villages. Also within the state, motor rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are in demand both among the local population and among tourists. In the major cities of the state - Panaji, Margao, Vasco da Gama, Old Goa, Mapusa, Ponda - there are intracity routes.

There are three types of taxis in the resort: auto rickshaws (they are also called tuk-tuks), motorcycle taxis (you will be taken with a breeze on a motorcycle or moped) and ordinary cars. The yellow numbers make it easy to recognize the official taxis - they are run by the state Department of Transportation. Sometimes private taxi drivers pretend to be state carriers (the services of the latter are cheaper), and then, having enticed and set off, they demand additional payment from the unfortunate passengers.

Sunset at Agonda Beach

Mobile communication and Internet

To buy a SIM card from a local mobile operator, you need to go through some bureaucratic formalities. You will be required to have a color photograph and photocopies, on two different A4 sheets, of the first page of your passport and visa. Then you will fill out the questionnaire and leave your personal signature in four different places.

You can also call from Goa to Russia from an ordinary telephone booth with the inscription STD. A minute of conversation will cost 8 Indian rupees, a fee can be paid, for example, at a hotel. A call home from a SIM card from a Russian operator or from a hotel will cost more, from 40 to 120 INR.

Wireless access to the World Wide Web is possible in an Internet cafe, but the pleasure is not free, you will have to pay from 40 to 80 rupees per hour. Good Wi-Fi coverage is available in four- and five-star hotels and in some restaurants. Purchasing a SIM card for Internet access involves the same formalities as a telephone one. If you are planning a long-term stay in Goa, you can buy a modem from one of the telephone companies: MTS, Idea, Airtel or Vodafone, the cost is 2 thousand rupees. For a subscription fee of 900 INR, you get a month of unlimited Internet access.

Hotels and accommodation

There are many hotels in Goa, so it will not be difficult for tourists to find an accommodation option in accordance with the tastes and possibilities of the wallet. Note that the "star" classification of hotels in India has not really taken root, so the pointers in various catalogs on the number of "stars" reflect the personal impressions of the compilers.

Hotels in both parts of Goa are noticeably different. There are a lot of hotels in the north, both expensive and quite budget ones. The latter are much larger and they are located not in the beach area, but at some distance, 5-30 minutes walk. Many hotels offer a shuttle service to the beach back and forth, moreover, free of charge. Hotels that correspond to the 5 * level offer their customers the services of traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda) and SPA procedures. It is believed that in the south of the state, whose hallmark is wide beaches and luxurious palm groves, there are more predominantly expensive hotels suitable for family vacation. It is here that luxury hotels are located, which have become the face of the entire resort: Caravela Beach Resort Beleza By The Beach

A lot of tourists, mostly young people, prefer to go on their own vacation as "savages" in Goa. They do not want to stay in ordinary hotels, preferring a room in an inexpensive mini-hotel (guesthouse), rent apartments or even entire houses. This option is also suitable for travelers on a budget. Wealthier foreigners, who also do not favor hotels, choose to stay in separate villas.

How to get there

Direct flights from Moscow to Goa are operated by Aeroflot and Transaero. During the high season, which lasts from November to March, both carriers fly almost daily. Aeroflot operates flights from Sheremetyevo (except Tuesday), Transaero - from Sheremetyevo and Domodedovo (except Monday). A non-stop flight from the capital of Russia takes from 7 to 9 hours. Tickets can be purchased on Aviasales, the cost of a round trip varies between 30-100 thousand rubles. The only one international Airport state - Dabolim, it is located in the area of ​​​​the village of the same name, 4 km from the city of Vasco da Gama, and consists of two terminals.

Many domestic tourists prefer to get to Goa by rail. First they fly to Mumbai (formerly Bombay) and board the train there. Travel time is approximately 9-13 hours. This option attracts, first of all, with its relative cheapness. You can go to the resort directly from Delhi, only you will have to spend twice as much time on the train - 30 hours. Closest to tourist areas Madgaon, Tivim and Karmali stations are located, so it is best to go to them. When buying a ticket, be sure to make sure that the train stops at the station you have chosen.

Everything you need to know about going to Goa in 2020! Reviews of 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 of India. After a vacation in Goa, someone is imbued with eternal love for him, some even leave to live, and you can’t lure someone else with gingerbread. We will tell you everything you need to know about your vacation 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 for holidays in Goa November to March. The peak season, when the state is crowded with tourists and prices skyrocket, is December-February. The weather is perfect: almost no precipitation, comfortable humidity. Water temperature +28...+29°C, air temperature +33...+34°C during the day, around +22...+24°C at night. It can be chilly in the evenings by the sea, so take a light sweater with sleeves.

Low season. Some go to rest in Goa in the low season - so you can save money and relax in silence. For example, in April the weather is still good, it only gets hotter and the wind intensifies, and there are already fewer tourists.

This is the high season weather in Goa (Photo © Sergi Hill / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Tours in Goa in 2020

Prices are for two people with departure from Moscow.

The most expensive vacation in Goa is for the New Year and Catholic Christmas. Prices jump sharply, and the minimum prices for tours to the cheapest hotels 1-2 * cost from 90 thousand rubles per week, and in 4-5 * - from 150 thousand!

Much cheaper in January: a week-long vacation in Goa in budget hotels costs from 40 thousand, in 4-5 * - from 90 thousand. Prices for vouchers for 11 nights are only slightly higher - by 10-20 thousand, and sometimes they are the same price as tours for a week!

In February and March, vouchers are a little 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 are tickets 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. In the range of 42-45 thousand rubles are tickets from Voronezh, Novosibirsk, Kazan, Perm, Krasnoyarsk, Ufa and Samara.

Insurance. Before traveling to India, we advise you to buy a medical policy for your peace of mind. Take out insurance on sites or - they compare prices from all major insurance companies. You can choose the policy according to the parameters you need and best price. The policy costs from 450 rubles for 10 days.

Do Russians need a visa for Goa?

Yes, a visa is required. It can be obtained online, upon arrival (if you fly on a tour) or issued in advance. According to reviews, most tourists draw up e-visa in Goa online is the easiest and most convenient solution. You send documents and pay the fee, and you will be sent a document by e-mail, which you need to print and show to the officer at the airport. Valid for 60 days. Price - $100 + $2 for card payment.

Incredible view while riding the 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 quiet rest. South Goa is almost 2.5 times larger than its northern counterpart in terms of area and length. coastline 3 times. Here 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 hotels are mostly expensive.

north goa: budget and party rest. 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 more choice of housing - from luxury hotels to cheap guesthouses. And if lovers of secluded relaxation prefer the south, noisy parties and nightlife are seething in the north. Mostly unpretentious audience comes 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.

Formerly a hippie vacation spot, now it is a popular crowded beach with hotels and restaurants. Locals like to visit Calangute, it is never empty. Around - palm groves, at the entrance rises the dome of the temple. There is also an art gallery with works by local artists. According to reviews of holidays in Goa, the main drawback of this beach is a lot of crowds and the obsession of local merchants.

Calangute Beach (Photo © booking.com / Canopus by Vista Rooms)

Candolim beach

The beach is clean and not as crowded as Calangute. It's just that the descent to it is quite steep. Candolim is considered more prestigious: locals rarely come here, more often foreigners.

According to tourists, this beach in Goa is very fond of Indians and families come to relax. Basically, 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 on Morjim are higher, but the infrastructure is developed - new bungalows, excellent restaurants, always well-groomed territory. The wave is good for surfing and kiting. All hotels are located in a green area a kilometer from Morjim.

Morjim beach (Photo © booking.com / Larisa Beach Resort)

Arambol beach

A beach with fine sand of white and golden color, around - cottages and huts. There is also a yoga center here. Arambol is popular with surfers and hippies, but the place is quite calm and peaceful.

Ashvem beach

Ashvem is calm and not crowded. Shallow warm backwater and shacks with varied cuisine. According to reviews, relaxing on this beach in Goa is better for romantics and families with children.

(Photo © Natesh Ramasamy / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0)

Goa hotel reviews and prices - 2020

South Goa Hotels better hotels in the north. But in North Goa there are many 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 for every taste! The cost of a simple double room near the coast starts from $8-9 per night, many accommodations are in the range of $10-30. Pay attention to hotel ratings and reviews - this is especially important in India.

Prices for hotels in Goa during high season 2020 double occupancy:

- a beautiful territory, a garden, separate bungalows, a clean beach, delicious breakfasts, but there are also rooms with falling apart furniture and battered linen.

in Cansaulim - a new number of rooms, spa services and Ayurveda. Cons - the kitchen and the slowness of the staff.

Leela Goa 5 * in Cavelossim - great rooms, great beach and good food. A small minus - because of the river in the neighborhood there are a lot of mosquitoes, and there is nowhere to walk - there are only poor fishing villages around.

Bad hotels. Tourists left a lot negative reviews about the Valentines Retreat in Candolim: old furniture and bathroom, poor food and poor service, it is better not to use laundries. Complain about the hotel The Golden Palms Colva 4 * - poor service, worn-out furniture, unpretentious food, which in the summer due to the influx of Indian tourists becomes too spicy.

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, for a lobster you will have to pay at least 1200 rupees. .

The main catering establishment is a beach shack (shek). Kitchen shed with everything you need, in front of it - a terrace and tables for visitors. So primitive, but so delicious! There are dishes of Indian, Chinese, European cuisine, definitely seafood, chicken, rice, juices.

In reviews of food in Goa, tourists call Cafe Maitree in Arambol the best and frankly 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, the average check is 500 rupees.

Find out where else you can inexpensively relax and live.

Thali - several dishes on a tray or banana leaf (Photo © bionicgrrrl / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

GOA is the main resort of India. It is completely different from other resorts in the country. Hotels located in South Goa are expensive and not only by Indian standards. They are visited by wealthy Europeans. Northern GOA is the exact opposite of southern. It is relatively inexpensive and democratic. Young people from America and Europe like to come here.

GOA is a state of India with an area of ​​3702 square kilometers. It is located on the western coast of the Indian subcontinent. It is washed by the waters of the Arabian Sea. The population of GOA is 3.1046 million people.

Climate

The climate of Goa is considered subtropical. There is no usual change of seasons. In the cool period from December to January, the minimum temperature is up to +19 degrees. The maximum temperature reaches +30 degrees. During the hot period from May to June, the minimum temperature drops to +25 degrees. And the highest is +34 degrees. Humidity is moderate in summer. Therefore, even too high a temperature is tolerated quite well.

Tropical climate in January. During the day, the air warms up to +30 degrees. In the evening the temperature can be +19. There is no precipitation at this time, so it is comfortable to relax in January. The water temperature is +27 degrees.

The hottest month is May. During the day, the air temperature reaches +33 degrees, at night up to +27. The weather at this time becomes hot and humid. June is also hot. More than half of July it rains. In August, high humidity. In September the temperature drops. It rains every other day, there is a lot of cloud cover. In October, the weather becomes unpredictable and tourists may need warm clothes.

GOA has two seasons: dry and rain season. The dry season runs from October to May. The rainy season starts in June and ends in September.

So, a favorable rest falls on winter months from November to March. It was at this time that most of the tourists from Europe and Russia come here.

Types of recreation

Any tourist will find suitable entertainment for himself in GOA. There are golden beaches, and warm sea, and magnificent Indian architecture, which is surrounded by tropical landscapes. Vacationers can choose various types of recreation and entertainment, both extreme and more relaxed.

beach holiday

If you like a relaxing holiday in a deserted place, then you should go to the beaches of Majorda, Utorda and Betalbatim. It's clean and quiet here. There are no shops or bars nearby.

Livelier environment in Benaulim. Here you can sit in a restaurant, go to the store.

Mobor, Cavelossim and Varka are respectable resorts.

Excursion rest

If you go on a trip here, be sure to visit excursions. On them you can see the forts of Alorn and Aguada, the Cathedral of St. Catherine, the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Those who wish can also go on an interesting tour "Night North GOA", ride a sea ​​cruise"Gold of Vasco da Gama", admire the mysterious Dudhsagar waterfall, visit the Bondla nature reserve.

Active

GOA has excellent conditions for diving. Here you can also play paintball, ride elephants, go hunting for crocodiles. Water skiing and paragliding are among the most popular activities among tourists. water sports sports is one of the reasons why people come to GOA. Local beaches are an almost inexhaustible source of seafood. Agonda Beach in Kankanoa is popular with fishermen. Salmon, mullet and other types of fish are caught here.

Wellness

On GOA you can take a course of Ayurvedic procedures. However, in order to get an even greater effect, it is necessary to devote at least 2.5 weeks to this course. Tourists can also attend an oil massage course or a course of treatment with natural remedies.

Night life

Young and active tourists want to relax not only during the day, but also at night. GOA has great restaurants that travelers can visit. They play live music, visitors are entertained by show programs. Tourists can also visit the night markets. Night bars and clubs are open until the morning. They usually have cheap drinks.

shopping

There are many shops in GOA that offer clothing, household items, shoes and other goods.

Where to stay in GOA?

The choice of accommodation in this resort will depend on the purpose for which the trip is planned. If travelers come on vacation with their families and children, it is worth choosing hotels in South GOA that have 4 or more stars. You can also rent a spacious house or villa. If the vacationers came alone with the purpose active rest, suitable rental housing in North GOA. There is a vibrant nightlife, a large number of bars and clubs. Settle on goa tourists can be in several types of housing.

Guesthouses

These are guest houses that are a budget option and are popular among young people. As a rule, they are a mini-hotel with its own territory. Most guesthouses are located in areas with developed infrastructure.

Hotels

Hotels may have different number of stars. Three-star hotels are perfect for independent travelers. They have the necessary service. Five-star hotels offer a wide range of services and excellent service. Such hotels are aimed at wealthy tourists and vacationers with children.

Houses, apartments, villas

They are preferred to rent by tourists who want to enjoy the home environment. Bungalows are small huts that are made of reed or bamboo. Living in them is not safe.

How to get to GOA?

You can get to GOA by plane, bus, taxi or rented car. Mostly tourists choose a plane and fly through Delhi or Mumbai. It's cheaper. A direct flight from Moscow to Delhi will cost 25,000 rubles. Travel time is 3 hours.

Traveling by train will be longer. from Mumbai to Goa will have to go 9-13 hours. A ticket will cost 450-3000 INR. It all depends on what class of carriage the tourist is traveling in.

Traveling by bus takes approximately 11-16 hours. The ticket costs 500-2000 INR.

Taxi is a convenient option for a group of friends or family. From Mumbai to Goa can be reached in 8-12 hours. In this case, you will have to pay 10,000 INR.

Pros and cons of holidays in GOA

GOA is real paradise for a tourist. But this resort has both its pros and cons.

pros holidays in GOA:

1. A wide variety of entertainment;
2. Gorgeous beaches;
3. Tasty food;
4. Affordable vacation prices;
5. Wonderful nature.

Minuses holidays in GOA:

1. Poor quality of drinking water;
2. Fraud and theft;
3. The mentality of the locals;
4. disadvantaged areas;
5. Irregular traffic on the roads.

In general, most tourists evaluate the rest on GOA positively. After all, there is a magical atmosphere here, which is compared with Bali, Koh Phangan, Lake Toba. Incredible nature, clean beaches, interesting entertainment is all that a tourist needs. The warm sea and the bright sun will give a feeling of tranquility. A cozy sunbed, coconut palms - all this is available even at the first acquaintance with the resort. The beaches of GOA are not crowded, where you can enjoy peace and quiet.

Enjoy your holiday in a paradise on the planet!

The beaches of South Goa are considered to be the best beaches in the state. Compared to, there are much fewer people on the South Goan beaches, they are mainly chosen for families with children and people of age.

You can hardly find such parties as on Arambol on South Goan beaches: after 11 pm everything is closed here.

Lifeguards are on duty on all the beaches of South Goa. During strong waves, they drive along the beaches in jeeps and make sure that vacationers do not go further than waist-deep. In addition to waves, there is another danger in the sea - reverse currents, so you should not listen to the rescuers and swim far into the sea.

Almost on all the beaches of South Goa, white and very fine, like flour, sand, creaking like snow underfoot. Due to such fine sand, the beach strip is very dense and it is easy to ride a bicycle (you can rent it at the entrance to the beach) and even a car (but only lifeguards are allowed to do this).

The beaches of Velsao, Cansaulim, Arossim, Utorda, Majorda, Betalbatim, Colva, Sernabatim, Benaulim, Varca, Cavelossim, Mobor, Betul are one continuous 27-kilometer sandy strip, the beaches pass one into another, between the beaches there are deserted areas without sun loungers and shekov: here you can sunbathe on your towels if you want peace and tranquility.

According to our observations, in the first half of the day the sea in South Goa is calmer, there is practically no wind. After lunch, waves appear and the wind is so strong that it blows away umbrellas.

What are the best beaches in South Goa? In our article, we will tell you in detail about each of them and mark all the beaches on the map.

Arossim

Arossim Beach is a smooth continuation of Cansaulim. Why the beaches of Cansaulim and Arossim are called differently is not clear: there is only one village near these beaches. There are no differences between the beaches: the same sparsely populated, fishing boats, there are a few sheks on the beach.

Utorda

Compared to previous beaches, Utorda Beach is quite busy. There are many hotels here, including several hotels where package tourists are brought. However, the beach is quite uncrowded and calm. On the beach there are many cafes and beach chairs. The beach strip is wide, the sand is light and fine.

Majorda

Continuation of Utorda beach, there is no difference between the beaches. Geographically, the Majorda settlement area includes the beaches of Utorda, Majorda, Betalbatim and Colva. But the last Colva has become many times more popular with tourists than Majorda itself, so Majorba Beach is not crowded today. However, there are quite a few shek on the beach, and hotels (including 5-star ones) in the village. The sand, as in all this 30-kilometer zone, is light, fine and creaky, like snow.

Betalbatim

Betalbatim is a very tiny village. There is no such developed infrastructure as on Colva or Majorda, but these neighboring villages in Betalbatim can be reached in just 20 minutes on the beach. Instead of palm trees, the coast of Betalbatim is adorned with pine trees.

They write that it is from this beach that you can sometimes watch dolphins swimming quite close to the shore, but we have never seen them. Local fishermen can offer those who wish boat trips along the coast to the habitats of dolphins.

Betalbatim Beach has a few beach shacks but is otherwise pretty deserted. Suitable for a calm, measured rest. The northern part of Betalbatim has its own name - Sunset beach.

Colva

Only we

In the morning there are no people at all on Varka, but by sunset people appear here (mostly Indians) and even one beach attraction was seen - a parachute.

Other photos of Varca beach:

Cavelossim

Cavelossim Beach is the most prestigious beach in South Goa. In terms of its liveliness and infrastructure, it resembles Colva, but in comparison with it, everything here is more fashionable. Cavelossim even has its own shopping center.

The beach has a large hotel area, most of the hotels are expensive.

Many famous five-star hotels are located here. For example, Leela Goa Beach Resort, where Putin lived during the BRICS Congress in South Goa. BRICS itself was held in another 5-star hotel in Benaulim - Taj Exotica. In addition to these, in Benaulim there are also hotels of the global chains Radisson Blue and Holiday Inn.

The village also has its own Catholic church, Holy Cross Church.

The central part of Cavelossim beach is very crowded, most of the tourists are Russian-speaking tourists who came package tours. Unlike Colva, there are no vacationing Indians on Cavelossim.

The territory of Cavelossim beach is quite long - about 10 km. Instead of palm trees, coniferous trees grow on the beach.

In the central part there are many beach cafes, mostly with Russian signs and menus. Each cafe has a beach shower and toilet.

There is a very wide list of beach activities, their prices:

If you move away from the central part to the left or right, you can get to deserted sections of the beach, without sunbeds and shacks.

Other photos of Cavelossim beach:

Mobor

Mobor Beach is a continuation of Cavelossim Beach, in fact, it is just its southernmost part. If those who want a quiet measured rest without parties rest in the village of Cavelossim, then those who want a fun and party nightlife stop in the village of Mobor.

Mobor is home to the Party Zone club in Holiday Inn Resort: It is believed that the best discos in South Goa are held here.

The beach itself is the same as in Caveossima: snow-white fine sand, palm trees. The mouth of the Sol River is located on this beach: the river goes around the entire Mobor beach and flows into the sea. The beach is also distinguished by picturesque lakes with lotuses.

Here, as well as on Cavelossim, vacationers are offered a lot of entertainment: boat trips, fishing, parasailing, cycling, etc.

Betul

Natural extension of Mobor beach. The last beach of the 27-kilometer beach strip that starts right behind the airport. It is known for its fishing port, where boats and trawlers bring their catch. A fishing village that consists mainly of small huts of fishermen and their families.

There are few hotels in Betul, the most famous of them is Bamboo House Goa: the hotel's Blue Whale restaurant offers a wide selection of seafood dishes caught right there.

The beach is very uncrowded and picturesque.

View point and Holy Cross Chapel-Baradi church

On the way from Cavelossim to the next Kolu beach, we highly recommend visiting the Baradi church, which is located near the village of Betul. The cross at the chapel is considered miraculous and healing from diseases.

From here it opens very beautiful view on palm plantations and the Sal river flowing into the sea.

Other photos from observation deck at the Baradi Church:

Baradi Chapel on the map:

Canaguinim

12 km from the crowded Cavelossim is wild beach Canaguinim beach. Little. an incredibly picturesque beach, hidden from prying eyes by rocks overgrown with greenery. Swimming on the beach is difficult due to the large number of stones protruding from the sea.

No tourism infrastructure there is no on this beach: there are no shacks, merchants, beach shops. Accommodation can only be found in the village of Canaguinim, located 1 km from the beach: but it will only be a room in a private house, since there are no hotels here either.

Most often, those who want to stay on a wild deserted beach without people and civilization come here just for 1 day.

Cola

Definitely the most heavenly beach in all of Goa. It is located between Cavelossim and Agonda, but is surrounded on all sides by rocks, which is why it can only be reached by a single road of terrible quality. The beach is available only in , 6 months a year. During the rainy seasons, this broken road is washed out and it is simply impossible to get to the beach.

There is no infrastructure on Kolya, except for the only cafe at the entrance to the beach.

Of the hotels, only bungalow huts are represented here, there are quite a few of them. Room prices start from 3000 rupees per night. We especially liked these houses on the mountain:

Cola Beach consists of three parts: the first is the most “crowded” (although it is, of course, wrong to call a crowded beach with a couple of dozen people), it is limited on both sides by boulders that can be easily overcome. The sand on the first part of Cola is of an unusual black color, and the grains of sand themselves are large.

There are fewer houses on the second part of the beach, and there are only a couple of people on the beach. The sand here is coarse, mostly dark yellow in color with small black sand areas. The second piece of Cola beach is also limited by huge boulders.

The third part of the beach is the most empty. There are two hotels here that offer an unusual type of accommodation - tents.

• Hotel Cola Beach Sunset Bay . Cost of 1 night in a tent 6500 rupees for double occupancy.
• Cola Beach Exclusive Tented Resort. Cost of 1 night in a tent 5700 rupees for double occupancy.

There are sun loungers in front of the tents, but we did not notice people.

There is already completely yellow coarse sand, there is no black sand.

this piece of beach is so deserted that you can try the famous Goan beach yoga (if you are embarrassed to do it on a crowded Colva, for example):

Kola Beach ends with a beautiful green mountain with palm trees, when you look at it, you immediately recall Andrei Mironov’s song “All covered with greenery, absolutely all, there is an island of bad luck in the ocean ...”

We absolutely loved Cola Beach. Although, swimming in the waves here is not safe because of the boulders that stick out of the water throughout the beach. And yet, if you rank the best beaches South Goa, then Cola will definitely top this list.

Other photos of Cola Beach:

Agonda

The village of Agona is very lively, along the coast there is a long beach street with many shops and cafes, from which you can go to the beach anywhere.

The entire Agonda beach is a wide strip of sand and a wide variety of beach houses-hotels. The length of the beach is about 2.5 km.

Of the vacationers here, there are more Indians and Europeans, there are very few Russians, unlike Colva, Benaulim, Cavelossim and Palolem. Quiet and calm beach, but it cannot be called unpopulated.

In addition to many cozy hotels, there are also a large number of restaurants on the beach.

The sand on Agonda is quite fine, dark yellow in color, with an admixture of black sand.

In the southern part of the beach there are huge picturesque boulders protruding from the sea.

The beach ends with a mountain jutting out into the sea.

Other photos of Agonda beach:

Butterfly

Butterfly Beach is an inaccessible, wild beach in South Goa. The length of the beach is only about 100 meters, there is absolutely nothing and no one on it (with the exception of the same as you, possible tourists who came here by boat).

It is believed that you can get there only by sea, from the beaches of Agonda or Palolem (the cost of renting a boat is from 800 to 1100 rupees in both directions). You can also rent a kayak (there is such a service on Palolem beach), you will have to row for 40 minutes (2.5 km by sea).

In fact, it is possible to get to Butterfly Beach by land, but this is a very bad road, in some places just a pile of stones. During the rainy season, this road does not exist at all, it is flooded. It is quite dangerous to overcome this road on a bike, but it is completely impossible to overcome this road, the safest thing is to walk.

Palolem

- a paradise beach with the famous palm trees stretching towards the water. But he is not at all like the one he is called in guidebooks. Today, Palolem is a very developed infrastructure and a rather crowded beach.

The beach is located in a quiet bay, thanks to which it is protected from wind and waves.

Throughout the beach there are a variety of houses, a distinctive feature of which is that they are all built on stilts (unlike the houses of Agonda). Also throughout the beach there are numerous beach cafes - sheki.

Snow-white crisp sand, calm blue sea, heavenly beach bungalows "on legs" - that's what Palolem means.

The southern part of the beach is the most crowded and noisy, the sandy strip here is quite narrow. In the northern part, on the contrary, there are noticeably fewer people and a very wide sandy strip.

The southern part of Palolem: a narrow sandy strip, close to the sheks

The wide beach of the northern part of Palolem

If you are lucky, you can watch the dolphins that live near the beach.

Numerous entertainments are presented on Palolem Beach: parasailing, boat trips, water skiing. There is also an opportunity to rent a kayak, the cost of 1 hour is 200 rupees.

Other photos of Palolem beach:

Colomb

Remote beach of South Goa, located with a small horseshoe-shaped bay. Suitable for a quiet secluded holiday. The beach is very picturesque: golden soft sand and black boulders on the beach and in the water.

There are several beach cafes and small bungalows on the beach. The Bhakti Kutir, a well-known eco-complex, is located here, where you can rent a house made only from sustainable local materials and where you will be offered organic food.

You can also stay in a more solid hotel in a village located near the beach.

Colomb Beach has its own attraction - a rock called the Pandava Drum (heroes of Indian legends, warrior brothers). It is believed that if you throw a stone at a rock and hit a certain place, you can hear the sound of a drum.

You can walk to Colomb Beach on foot from the neighboring Palolem Beach (you can also swim from it by boat). You can also take a bus that goes from to Palolem.

Putnam

Putnam Beach is an improved version of Palolem. Here is the same heavenly beach with golden sand and good infrastructure, but many times less people. Due to its location in a small bay, there are no big waves on Putnam, so families with children often choose this beach.

The length of the beach is about 1 km. On both sides, Putnam ends with rocky headlands. Of the trees on Putnam, both palms and pines can be found.

A small street runs along the beach, on which there are various shops with clothes, souvenirs, fruits. There are many beach cafes on the beach itself.

Not far from the beach is Canacona - main city this region. There are shops, ATMs and other benefits of civilization.

On the beach itself there are beach bungalows. There are also quite a few hotels in Canacone.

On the north side of the beach is the Harmonica Healing Center, which offers a wide variety of wellness treatments and practices (including yoga and reiki).

Rajbag (Raj Baga)

A sparsely populated and picturesque beach with a length of about 1 km. The entire territory behind the beach is occupied by a huge luxury hotel The LaLiT Golf & Spa Resort Goa, so its guests mainly rest on Rajbag. There are no other hotels and housing in general on Rajbag.

5 star Lalit hotel on Rajbag beach

There is only 1 beach cafe on Rajbag, no merchants.

You can get to Rajbag on foot from the nearby Patnem beach (not along the shore), or on a kayak rented on Palolem (but it will be a rather difficult swim).

At the southern end of the beach, the rather full-flowing Talpon River flows into the sea, which separates Rajbag Beach from the next Talpon Beach.

Talpona

Quiet, secluded, heavenly beach due to its remote location. There are practically no people here, at certain hours you will be the only visitors to this coast.

Despite its desert, Talpon still has several beach cafes with low prices.

On the shore you can rent a hut, there is also some housing in the village near the beach.

Galgibaga (Turtle Beach)

Galgibaga Beach is considered the secret beach of South Goa. Indeed, few people know about him. A few kilometers of pure sand, a pine grove instead of palm trees and no sunbeds on the beach.

Galgibaga is famous among the regulars of Goa as one of the few places in Goa where you can eat the freshest oysters cheaply. We got a serving of fresh oysters with lime there for only 200 rupees for a serving of 7 oysters.

A deserted and heavenly beach, very similar to our favorite Paradise beach, which is located in the state of Maharashtra, not far from the Arambol beach of North Goa. In the pine grove, which begins after the sand, there are several cafes that prepare fresh seafood. The rest of the infrastructure on the beach is missing.

Galcibaga is also famous for the fact that there is a turtle nursery on this beach. It is said that some turtles lay their eggs directly on the sand, but during the day they do not get out on the shore, only at night.

field

This is the last beach of South Goa, immediately after which another Indian state begins - Karnataka. A field beach is a crescent-shaped sandy strip about 700 meters long. Palm trees interspersed with pine trees grow along the sandy strip. On both sides, the beach is fenced with green capes protruding into the sea.

The beach is completely deserted by the field, few and rarely reach the farthest beach of Goa. Mostly local fishermen live here, but there are also a few beach cafes. Also, for those wishing to spend a longer time on the paradise deserted beach, there are several bamboo huts on the beach, which can be rented for only 200 rupees per night.

You can get to Polem by bus, which goes from Margao or Panaji (you will have to walk about 1.5 km from the road through the rice fields), as well as by auto rickshaw, taxi, rented bike or rented boat (you will need to agree with the owner of the boat when you will need to be taken back).