North Goa: 21 Must Visit Places, Things To Do, Restaurants, Resorts, Hotels, etc

A party destination to exploring beaches, enjoying Goan delicacies to indulging in thrilling and adventurous water activities, beautiful temples and churches to flashy casinos, North Goa is a destination worth visiting in a lifetime.

About North Goa:

North Goa covers the northern half of the state goa. Panaji is the headquarters of the North Goa district and is also the capital of goa. North goa is further divided into three subdivisions – Mapusa, Panaji, Bicholim; and into a number of talukas (district) – Tiswadi, Bardez, Bicholim, Pernem, Ponda, Sattari.

North Goa is a kaleidoscopic destination with golden beaches, electrifying party spots, famous shacks, magnificent forts, ancient temples, beautiful churches, and many other attractions.

How to reach North Goa:

By Air –

Goa international airport (Dabolim Airport) is Goa’s only airport which caters to domestic and international flights. 

By Train – 

The main railway stations are Madgaon, Pernem Karmali, Thivim.

By Bus –

Goa has many public as well as private bus operators offering intercity and interstate bus services to and from the North as well as South Goa.

21 Most Popular Places To Visit In North Goa:

1. Vagator Beach

It is one of the most popular beaches in Goa located about 22kms. from Panaji in Bardez Taluka.

A stunning beach covered with soft white sands and dramatic cliffs adorning the shore.

The beach is divided into two parts – North Vagator Beach or the Big Vagator and the Ozran beach or the Little Vagator.

This is the most happening beach famous for hosting various music festivals.

You can indulge in various fun-filled activities on and around the beach. This beach undoubtedly attracts many visitors from across the world.

2. Anjuna Beach

It is goa’s multidimensional entertainment hub, situated in Bardez taluka, about 18km away from Panjim.

It is famous for its white sands, adventure sports, nightlife and the famous Anjuna flea market that is held on every Wednesday.

3. Arambol Beach 

A spectacular beach with a distinct Bohemian vibe, located in North Goa, at a distance of 50 km from Panaji.

A rocky, as well as a sandy beach, is counted among the less-crowded beaches in Goa, ideal for love birds to enjoy their perfect romantic evening.

The soft white sand and the clear waters offer a visual treat to the tourists and are perfect for sunbathing.

4. Calangute Beach

It is often referred to as the queen of beaches, located about 15kms. from Panaji. It is the longest beach in north goa, stretching from Baga to Candolim.

It is a hub for tourists from all around the world and caters to all types of travellers- from nature lovers to adventure junkies to party people. It is also famous for its handicraft markets and seafood.

5. Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception –

It is one of the charming places of worship standing on the church square Panaji.

The church is a fine blend of Baroque Architecture and Portuguese style with a hint of Goan touch.

This massive white structure has zig-zag staircases, a large bell and intriguing carving that offer an absolute experience to the visitors.

6. Sinquerim Beach

This beach is known for its beautiful shores, located about 13kms. from Panaji. is an ideal location for tourists to enjoy nature’s beauty.

Tourists love to relax and get tanned by the sun on the beach and also admire taking long leisurely walks on the golden sand.

You can enjoy a host of water-based sports and adventurous activities and can also indulge in swimming.

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7. Candolim Beach

It is known for its serene environment located about 12.5 km from Panaji. It is a calm and peaceful beach with less commercial activities, restaurants and shops.

Since it is less crowded, many visitors come here to relax and it also provides an ideal environment for meditation and yoga.

8. Mandrem Beach

This beach is known for its amazing and pleasing views, which lies between Ashvem and Arambol beaches in North Goa.

Mandrem Beach is ideal for yoga, meditation and Ayurveda practices and is absolutely a place to find the true bliss. If you get a chance visit this place during the high tides because that is when its beauty is at its peak.

9. Fort Aguada

It is an epitome of Portuguese architecture and also houses series of prison cells and an ancient lighthouse.

The fort was built in the year 1612 to protect the Dutch from the invasions by the British.

Located in Candolim, the fort is famous for sightseeing and is open from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm.

10. Church Of Mae De Deus

Built-in 1873, this fairy tale church is a fine example of Gothic architecture and is home to the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus (Mother of God).

It is one of the best places in north goa located in Saligao and is open from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Right from exteriors to interiors the church offers a beautiful view that will mesmerize you completely.

11. Temple of Bogdeshwara

It is one of the most enchanting pilgrimage centres in North Goa, dedicated to Kanakeshwar Baba or Bodgeshwar, also known as Bongini.

During the month of December or January, a fair called ‘Zatra’ is held at the temple and many tourists take part in this cultural festival. Located in Mapusa, the temple is open from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.

12. Chapora Fort

It is one of the most famous places to visit in North Goa, built by Portuguese in 1717.

It captured the attention and became more famous after featuring in the Bollywood movie, Dil Chahta Hai.

It offers an excellent view and is a nice spot for photography. Located in Chapora, you can visit the fort from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, every day.

14. Aguada Beach

It is one of the most popular tourist attraction in North Goa. The highlight of the beach is the fort that faces the beach. The beach is famous amongst beach lovers and honeymooners. It is perfect to enjoy evening strolls, enjoy watersports and experience the beauty.

15. Baga Beach

It is one of the most popular beaches in North Goa, named after the Baga Creek that drains into the Arabian Sea. It is a perfect place to enjoy an adventurous and thrilling day, also famous for late-night parties.

The beach has many restaurants, cafes and shacks to enjoy some delicacies. It is located near to Calangute beach and is also famous for dolphin spotting.

16. Basilica Of Bom Jesus

A UNESCO recognized world heritage site, Basilica of Bom Jesus is a roman catholic church in old goa.

It is the oldest church in Goa that dates back to over 400 years and is an epitome of Portuguese and baroque architecture.

The church holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier and the mummy is taken out for public viewing in every 10 years.

It is located on Old Goa Road, Bainguinim, about 10 km from Panjim, and attracts several tourists from all across the world.

Visiting hours of the church are – Monday to Saturday 09:00 am to 06:30 pm and Sunday 10:00 am to 06:30 pm.

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17. Morjim Beach

It is one of the most pristine beaches in the North Goa, also referred to as ‘Little Russia’ due to Russian immigrants settling here.

It also serves as a breeding place of one the endangered species of turtles, the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle.

It is a protected beach but also an amazing place to unwind and relax.

18. Mangueshi Temple

It is one of the most visited and largest temples in Goa, situated in Mangueshi village, about 22 km from Panaji.

The temple is of Lord Mangesh who is said to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva.

Inside the temple complex, there stands a seven storeyed octagonal lamp tower – Deepstambha.

19. Dona Paula Beach

It is one of the most popular and beautiful places to see in North Goa, located about 7km from Panaji.

The name is kept after the then viceroy’s daughter, Dona Paula de Menezes. Tourists love to indulge in water sports, shopping, seafood and many more.

20. Aravelem Waterfalls

It is a worth visiting place in North Goa, especially in monsoons. The place is ideal for outings, family picnic and one can enjoy various fun activities. 

Located in the vicinity of Bicholim and Sequelim towns in North Goa, is a perfect place for lightening the stressed mood.

21. Goa State Museum 

Located in Panaji, this is a place for people who love art, history and want to know about Goan culture.

The museum includes sculptures, paintings, manuscripts, statues, heritage and anthropological facts about Goa.

The museum is open from Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Top 6 Things To Do In North Goa:

1. Scuba Diving at Grande Island

It is one of the most recommended things to do in North Goa. Scuba diving gives you a wide picture of the underwater kingdom, making it a most amazing experience.

Apart from Scuba diving, Grande Island also offers some thrilling water sports including snorkelling, swimming, sea walking, and many.

2. Try your Luck at Famous Casinos

There are many famous casinos where you can have a feeling of vegas and enjoy different variety of games.

Most of the casinos are open 24 hours so you can enjoy it any time of the day.

The famous casinos are – Casino Palm (Calangute beach in North Goa), MV Caravela (offshore casino from Mandovi Beach), Casino Pride (the best floating casino in the region located on Captain of Ports Jetty, Panaji), Deltin royale (located in Noah’s Ark, RND Jetty, Panaji).

3. Shopping At Famous Markets

Anjuna Flea Market is counted among the best markets in Goa which is organized on every Wednesday.

You can get all the boho hippie kinds of stuff, souvenirs, clothing, and many more at very reasonable rates.

There are also entertainment activities, food stall, live music in and around the market. 

Mapusa Market is another weekly market that is organized on every Friday.  The market is known for antiques, jewellery, spices, fish, meat, Goan sausages.

This place is a buzzing marketplace that has the traditional Goan charm.

4. Go Clubbing At Popular Nightclubs

Club Cabana is a popular nightclub in North Goa, located on the top of Arpora Hill. lose yourself to dance and music and party all night.

Sinq Nightclub in Candolim is a trendy place that offers some chill vibes and a great atmosphere for all the party animals.

LPK Club is surely one of the places for partying. With a big dance floor, LPK is a waterfront club in North Goa.

5. Visit the most Happening Shacks in North Goa

Curlie’s Shack on Anjuna beach and Britto’s Shack on Baga beach are the most happening spots in north Goa. Both these shacks are known for their ambience and mouth-watering delicacies.

You can dig into scrumptious food and enjoy the view of the beach.

6. Indulge in Thrilling Water Activities

Many beaches in North Goa deliver most entertaining water sports to the tourists to explore their fun side.

You can try numerous activities like jet skiing, motorboat ride, banana boat ride, parasailing, kayaking, surfing, and many others.

Best 20 Restaurants in North Goa:

1. Thalassa ,Little Vagator .
2. Tuscany Gardens, Candolim,
3. Mum’s Kitchen, Dayanand Bandodkar Street, Panaji.
4. A Reverie, Holiday Street, Gaura Waddo, Calangute.
5. Alex’s Shack, Candolim.
6. Cafe Chocolatti, Candolim.
7. Bomra’s, Candolim.
8. Venite, 31st January Road, Panaji.
9. Shimon Falafel, Arambol.
10. Go with the flow, Calangute, Baga.
11. Fiesta, Baga beach.
12. Bean me up, Anjuna.
13. Black Sheep Bistro, Panaji.
14. Villa Blanche Bistro, Vagator. 
15. House of Lloyds, Near Candolim Church, Candolim.
16. Pousada By The Beach, Calangute Beach, Calangute.
17. Chique Shanti, Mandrem.
18. Patio 23, Baga.
19. Jardin d Ulysse ,Morjim.
20. Nick’s Place, Arpora.

Best 20 Hotels in North Goa:

1. Surya Kiran Heritage Hotel, Panaji.
2. Doms Inn, Calangute.
3. Yahvi- The Boutique Hotel, Vagator.
4. Ibis Styles Goa, Calangute.
5. Neelams The Grand, Calangute.
6. Colonia Santa Maria, Calangute.
7. Joystreet Bliss, Mapusa.
8. Adamo the Bellus Goa, Calangute.
9. Living Room by Seasons, Vagator.
10. White Pearl Suites, Arpora.
11. Lemon Tree Hotel, Candolim.
12. The Avenue, Calangute.
13. Fairfield by Marriott Goa, Anjuna.
14. Hotel Riverside, Baga.
15. Azure by Spree Hotel, Calangute.
16. Teso Waterfront, Bardez.
17. Shining Sand Beach Hotel, Baga.
18. La Gulls Court by Amani, Vagator.
19. The Ocean Park, Calangute.
20. Prestige Hotel, Mapusa.

Best 20 Resorts in North Goa:

1. Andores Resort And Spa, Calangute.
2. Jacks Resort, Vagator.
3. Silent Beach Resort, Mandrem.
4. The Hammock Goa, Anjuna.
5. Sur La Mer, Morjim.
6. Whispering Palms Beach Resort, Candolim.
7. Larisa Beach Resort, Morjim.
8. Shalai-The Cliff Resort, Vagator.
9. Shantana Beach Resort, Candolim.
10. Coconut Creek Resort, Bogmalo beach.
11. Casa De Goa-Boutique Resort, Calangute.
12.  O Pescador an Indy Resort, Dona Paula.
13. Stone Wood Resort And Spa, Mandrem.
14. Stone Water Eco Resort, Santarem beach.
15. Sunset Beach Resort, Candolim.
16. Sea Horse Resort, Baga.
17. White Woods Resort and Spa, Morjim.
18. Tranquillity Cottage Resorts, Baga Beach.
19. Grand Vatika Resort, Arambol.
20. Pride Sun Village Resort And Spa, Baga.

Best 20 Luxury Hotels and Resorts in North Goa:

1. Novotel Goa, Candolim.
2. Vivanta by Taj, Panaji.
3. The Crown, Panaji.
4. Le Meridien, Calangute.
5. Hard Rock Hotel, Calangute.
6. The Postcard, Velha.
7. Double Tree By Hilton hotel, Arpura.
8. Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim.
9. Fortune Miramar, Member ITC Hotel Group, Panaji.
10. Mansionhaus, Anjuna.
11. The Fern Kadamba Hotel & Spa, Benaulim
12. Goa Marriott Resort & Spa.
13. Park Regis Goa.
14. Taj Fort Aguada Resort And Spa.
15. Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa, Sinquerium.
16. W Goa, Vagator.
17. Hyatt Centric, Candolim.
18. Acron Waterfront Resort – Member ITC Hotel Group.
19. Resort Rio, Arpora.
20. Cidade De Goa, Dona Paula.

Best 20 Villas in North Goa:

1. Ludo Villa, Calangute.
2. West Valley Villa, Calangute.
3. Aspire Orchard Villa, Calangute.
4. Villa de Plumeria, Candolim.
5. Royal Holiday Villa, Baga.
6. Hill Top Luxury villa, Mapusa.
7. House of Legends, Calangute.
8. Heritage Nirvana Villa, Baga.
9. Windflower Villas, Candolim.
10. The Villa Goa, Assagao.
11. Coco Shambhala Villa, Bardez.
12. Albuquerque Holiday Villas, Candolim.
13. Goa Luxury Villas, Sinquerim.
14. Aromia Villas, Arpora.
15. Sky High Villas, Candolim.
16. Cinnamon Villa, Arpora.
17. Summertime Villas, Calangute.
18. Villa Meraki, Vagator.
19. Seashell Suites And Villas, Candolim.
20. Luxury Villas in Goa, Candolim.

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