After numerous travels throughout India, I finally embarked on my journey to Goa. The state of Goa is precisely the perfect place to start if you’ve never been to India before. Goa boasts magnificent white sandy beaches, towering palm trees, pristine waters, and all the incredible cuisine India has to offer. When you travel to Goa, you’ll quickly notice the unique blend of Southern European and South Indian influences throughout the streets.
Immerse yourself in bustling India with trendy coffee shops on every corner. What more could you want?
Planning Your Trip to Goa? Essential Information for Your Goa Vacation
Get well-prepared with this comprehensive information. Read everything you need to know for your travel to Goa.
Essential Goa Travel Tips
- Best time to visit Goa: November through May
- Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
- Visa requirements: E-tourist visa must be obtained in advance
- Language: English is widely spoken
- First time in India? Read our complete India travel guide
Where is Goa Located?
Goa is situated along India’s western coast. As India’s smallest state, Goa has a population of 1.5 million people. In Goa, nearly 90% of the population is literate, which is remarkable for India. For comparison: in Rajasthan state, literacy rates are 66%, with a breakdown of 78% for men and unfortunately only 52% for women. Hopefully, this will change soon!
Pro tip: I captured this beautiful scene during the Heritage Walk through Goa’s Latin Quarter in Panaji.
The capital of Goa is the charming city of Panaji (Panjim), where the streets are steeped in Portuguese history. In earlier times, Old Goa served as the capital, which is why you’ll find the ancient history of colonialism and other historical artifacts there.
You can also book a guided walking tour in Old Goa to learn about the fascinating history.
In Goa state, two languages are primarily spoken: Konkani and Marathi. Additionally, English will get you far, and if you speak Portuguese, you might even try that with the oldest residents.
Did you know that Goa was the last state to become part of India? India itself gained independence from Britain in 1947, while Goa received sovereignty from Portugal in late 1961.
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Goa – India
What is Goa Famous For?
Goa is renowned for its beautiful, expansive beaches and the hippie and yoga vibes that have flourished there for decades. You’ll also discover Portuguese heritage throughout the region, including many Catholic Baroque churches. Since Goa has long been a tourist destination, it has developed a different yet authentically vibrant energy. The combination of Southern India, Portugal, and the trendiest establishments creates the perfect mix for an amazing vacation!
It wasn’t until late 1961 that Goa was reclaimed by the Indian military from Portuguese hands. After two days of fighting, sovereignty was transferred to the Indian state.
Getting to Goa: Flight Information
Before traveling to Goa, know that there are two airports: Dabolim and Mopa. From major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kochi, etc., there are multiple daily flights. I flew directly from Mumbai to Dabolim with IndiGo after my arrival.
I didn’t realize there were two airports and traveled to the southern Dabolim Airport. Fortunately, this was also closest to my destination in Goa. I was heading to Palolem Beach and had a wonderful time there. If you’re going to northern areas like Calangute or surrounding regions, it’s better to fly into Mopa.
Photography is prohibited at Dabolim Airport as it’s a military airfield.
Travel tip: Going to Palolem Beach too? Check out Beach Front Bliss. They have beautiful beachfront cottages right next to the excellent Cuba restaurant where you can relax perfectly after a wonderful beach day.
Is Goa Expensive?
Compared to other Indian states, Goa is somewhat pricier. India is affordable, and by comparison, Goa is more expensive. For Western travelers, Goa remains very budget-friendly. However, if you’re seeking an extremely budget-conscious trip and want to live very cheaply, you might consider choosing another less touristy state. That said, you can certainly find local spots here where you can dive into authentic local life and dine for a fraction of the cost while enjoying the most delicious curries.
Goa’s Stunning Beaches
Travel to Goa for the magnificent beaches and the ultimate relaxed atmosphere. Goa’s coastline features numerous beautiful white sandy beaches and bays. These beaches have a completely different vibe than the rest of India. Here, people swim, recreate, and sunbathe. I was somewhat surprised by this, though I knew it deep down. So if you want to relax on the beach in your bikini and swim in the ocean, including a piece of Goa in your trip is wonderful!
North Goa vs South Goa: Which Should You Choose?
I’ve only visited South Goa beaches so far. Some are busy, like Palolem and Agonda, while others are very relaxed, like Patnem. Patnem is more of a hippie/yoga destination than Palolem, which tends to be livelier.
Tip: Looking for more tranquility during your vacation? I recommend booking your stay at Patnem Beach. Check out Om Shanti Beach.
Consider Cocos Beach Resort, a nice beachfront location in Palolem, though reviews aren’t entirely positive. If you want an excellent beachfront location with privacy, I highly recommend Coco Cabana.
North Goa is reportedly more of a party destination. Rave parties and other festivities are organized there. This is one reason I chose South Goa. The beaches in both South and North Goa are spectacular.
What’s unique for India is that on Goa’s beaches, you can walk around in your bikini and swim in the ocean comfortably.
Dress Code in Goa
As I mentioned earlier, the beaches are very touristy and Western – you can enter the water in your bikini. However, local people greatly appreciate when you dress more modestly. I walked around several times in long pants and shirts and had conversations with women who mentioned this. When you go slightly inland, modest clothing is also very much appreciated. That said, you’ll see Western tourists everywhere wearing shorts and t-shirts while walking and riding scooters.
I always carry a sarong with me. I can use it as a wrap, skirt, or simply to lie on at the beach. Always handy! Order a sarong too.
Is Goa Safe?
Goa is an extremely safe destination for travel in India. Particularly for solo female travelers, Goa is a very pleasant place to be.
Traffic throughout India is chaotic and unpredictable for us. However, if you go with the flow of traffic movement, it’s quite manageable. Read about my adventure with the autorickshaw.
Alcohol in Goa
Goa is one of the few places in India where you openly see alcohol consumption and numerous liquor stores lining the streets. Gradually, alcohol sales are being restricted. I’ve read about regulations stating alcohol can only be sold in the evening and that cafés selling only alcohol would be closed. It’s also prohibited to drink alcohol on beaches and in public places. This is only allowed on terraces with proper alcohol licenses.
I don’t drink alcohol, and honestly, I see alcohol everywhere – on beaches and in restaurants at all times of day.
Religion in Goa
Goa is predominantly Catholic due to Portuguese influence. You’ll see Hindu temples and other faiths like Sikh and Muslim, but they’re not particularly prominent. This is also why alcohol is permitted. However, the menu is largely vegetarian, which I find wonderful.
Flora & Fauna in Goa
Goa is a green state with extensive jungle where various large animals still live, including leopards, elephants, mongooses, hyenas, sloth bears, and jackals. And naturally, you’ll see monkeys roaming around here and there.
It’s quite interesting that there are leopards in the jungle, though unfortunately, I didn’t see any large animals. I was warned when I entered a forest path.
During my stay in Goa, I also visited the impressive 320-meter-high Dudhsagar Falls. If you visit just after monsoon season, it’s an enormous water spectacle. I found it an impressive sight even during my visit. And… halfway up there’s a railway track where I saw a train pass by. How beautiful must that be during monsoon season, from the train… over that churning water?
I had an incredible time in Goa and can truly recommend it as a vacation destination. Especially if you’re going to India for the first time, it’s somewhat of a soft landing and introduction to the culture.
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