Visitors dream of making lasting memories when they head to the western state of Goa in India. The state is famed for its mixture of Indian and Portuguese heritage, which is seen in its people, food, culture, and architecture. Western influences and people from various countries continue to have an impact on the state as a huge amount of tourists flood its striking beaches and hotspots every year. The state also has a rich collection of historical buildings and areas of pristine natural beauty, and there are always new things to do when in Goa. There is much to see, do and discover in the state and visitors soon get pulled in multiple directions. To ensure that you have a stellar time, check out this list we have created with the most unique experiences you must have in Goa, India.
Good to know:
- While you're moving around Goa to get the best experiences, it's useful to know your travel options, especially if you don't have your own car. Goa Tourism Development Corporation has a guide to getting around Goa for tourists to easily maneuver the state.
- In case of an emergency, Goa Tourism Development Corporation has a helpful list of helpline numbers , including a specific tourist helpline, that visitors can call.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Aside from beaches, parties, and watersports, we have many festivals in Goa that you can attend, such as Shigmo, Carnival, International Film Festival, etc. Every Diwali, people in Goa make statues of the demon king Narkasur to represent all the bad things in humanity, the world, and within themselves and burn the statue a day before Diwali. It symbolizes rebirth and embracing goodness in life. There are also interdistrict contests to give it a fun twist. Here, I am sharing a pic of the demon king.
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1. Walk through the historic “Old Goa” area
Walking through the “Old Goa” allows visitors to learn more about the Portuguese history of the state, which lasted for about 500 years. The tour starts at Viceroy’s Arch and visitors can get a glimpse of the various churches that lie along the way. The earliest church in Goa, the Church of St Catherine is also on the way, and the world-famous Bom Jesus Basilica, where the remains of St Francis Xavier are thought to be present is on the route of the walk. Guides who are knowledgeable about the area’s history and culture lead the walk and ensure that the participant’s questions are answered.
Book Tours : Old Goa Heritage Walk
2. Spend time partying on a boat
This tour is designed for those who want to experience a party on a large catamaran-style boat. The tour lasts for three hours and it gives participants time to check the sights and waters around the coast. Activities on the water are also offered as part of the tour and these include fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling. Participants can also spend time swimming in the water and watching dolphins around the boat. Dancing is permitted on the boat and there is live music that provides the right atmosphere for a party.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
For a more budget-friendly trip, book a 2-hour ferry ride on the Mandovi River. For a fee of around 600 INR (7 USD) per person, you can enjoy a memorable experience with your friends and family. Bring your favorite snacks and drinks along for a fun time, and don't forget to take lots of pictures!
Book Tours : Party Boat Adventure Trip in Goa - Klook
3. Learn the art of making dream catchers
At this workshop, participants learn how to make dream catchers similar to how they were originally made by Native American tribes. The workshop is held by an artist who adds touches of his creativity to the design of each dream catcher, which is thought to “catch” disturbing dreams. The artist guides the participants through creating the hoop for the dream catcher and weaving the web for it. Feathers are also used in decorating the dream catcher and they are thought to help the good dreams slide down to the person when they are sleeping.
Book Tours : Dream catcher making workshop
4. Tour the streets of the historic St Thomas ward
During this heritage walk that takes place in Panjim, participants get to experience the lifestyle of the locals and visit the St. Thomas Ward area. The walk starts from Tobacco Square and passes the Sao Tome chapel in the ward. Included in the tour is a visit to a famous local musician who provides details about the influence that the Portuguese had on Goan life and music. During the walk, the history of the popular Fontainhas neighborhood, with its colorful houses built in Portuguese style, can also be explored.
Book Tours : Fontainhas Heritage Walk
Goa (State) Tour Guide
Nibedita Sen
A hearty WELCOME to our page Happiness Activist. We are here to solve the problems of foreigners who come to explore India. Firstly, we suggest them to stop visiting the wonders and mundanes of social media advertisements about overrated traveling. We provide them the basic needs and guidelines that the audience requires when they first step into an unknown land which we have already explored. ... Read more
Tours by Nibedita
Goa (State) Tour Guide
Narender Kumar
I have been a tour guide/ escort for more than 10 years and have guided tourists pan India to historical and cultural heritage sites, national parks & bird sancturies, monuments places like- Delhi , Agra, Jaipur, Khajuraho Exotic Temples, Ranthambore National Park, Mumbai, Nashik , Aurangabad ( Ajanta Rockcut Caves & Ellora Rockcut Temples ), Goa etc. I am proficient in English, Rus... Read more
Tours by Narender
5. Practice mindfulness and yoga
The ancient Indian art of yoga and its practice is the focus of this tour. The tour takes place in the city of Canacona in Goa. The area where the yoga is conducted is peaceful and participants can learn the poses while outdoors, if the weather permits, but otherwise, the session is held indoors. During the two-hour session, participants can also learn more about the history and traditions associated with yoga in the country. How yoga focuses on the mind, body, and breath, and how it helps build mindfulness are also important elements of the session.
Book Tours : Two Hrs Of Complete Mindfulness
6. Go beach-hopping and indulge in water sports
The beaches of Goa are pristine and beautiful and attract tourists from around the globe. This tour allows participants to take part in five water sports, ranging from a high-speed trip on a banana boat to parasailing, jet skiing, and a sedate ride on a boat. This family-friendly tour is perfect for people of various ages. Plus, professionally qualified guides are on hand to keep participants safe and provide them with the guidance required. All equipment and gear are also provided and precautions are taken to keep participants safe on the water.
Book Tours : 5 in 1 Water Sports Package in Goa - Klook
7. View scenic Goa from the sky
During this balloon flight, participants get a chance to experience Goa from the sky. The hot air balloon tour lasts for three hours and the pilot provides instruction and information in English. As the balloon floats in the air, it allows participants to get stunning photographs of the villages down below and the landscape in the rural areas of Goa. During the trip, participants can discover more about the area outside the cities of Goa, and a sumptuous breakfast is provided upon landing.
Book Tours : Goa Hot Air Balloon Flight - Klook
8. Kayak through lush mangrove forests
During this trip, participants get to experience kayaking in the placid waters just off the coast of Goa. The tour is conducted on sturdy kayaks and all equipment is provided. Participants get a number of snacks and drinks, which help them keep their energy levels up when paddling. A local guide with knowledge about the area is also on hand to help keep people from getting lost and he also ensures that the boats can handle the high tide.
Book Tours : Mangroves Magic Goa Kayaking Experience
9. Learn how to cook a Goan meal
The local cuisine is the star of this tour, which is headed by chef Anjail, who was the winner of the Goan Chef Awards 2016. The tour is about two to four hours long and participants can learn how to season and cook food using popular local methods. Participants also get to enjoy an expertly cooked meal created with local ingredients and spices and take away a truly unique experience of the Goan food, which relies quite a bit on seafood.
10. Take a heritage tour of Chandor with an archaeologist
The ancient capital of Goa, Chandor is the focus of this heritage tour. The tour is conducted by an archaeologist and lasts for about five hours. Hotel pickups are also organized for participants who book this tour. In addition to exploring the ruins of the ancient capital of Chandor, the tour focuses on important historical buildings and the Braganza Mansion, which is nearby. Participants can also enjoy light snacks that are provided during the tour
Best tours in Goa
Aside from enjoying the remarkable experiences, you can also hop on fun and enriching tours in Goa to soak in its vibe. We’ve listed a couple of the best tours in the state below!
11. Deep-sea fishing trip in Goa
Set yourself free for a three to four-hour deep-sea fishing adventure. On this tour, you will not only enjoy but you will also learn how to set up your fishing tackle, cast your line and try your luck at catching tuna, red snapper and salmon. You will start this journey from your hotel in the early morning then you will be taken to a beach in Goa to board a large canoe.
You will enjoy yourself three or four hours in relaxing and fishing with help of your guide. You will also get complimentary snacks and drinks on board with some alcoholic beverages. If your luck is good, then you will be able to catch a fish which you can bring it to any one of restaurants located on the beach.
Book Tours : Deep-Sea Fishing Trip in Goa
12. Day trip to Mollem National Park
Experience this trip through Mollem National Park for an exhilarating off-road adventure. On this full day tour, you will travel Mollem National Park and Dudhsagar waterfalls by Jeep. Your first destination will be Dudhsagar waterfall, where you can set up for a small picnic, swim in clear waters or just relax and dip your feet.
After that, you can head to a spice village where you will learn Goa’s traditional farming methods and discover a variety of spices, medicinal herbs, and tropical fruits. In last, before going to your hotel you will have some home-cooked Goan delicious cuisines. This will be definitely a good learning experience.
Experience the best of Goa
If you are adventurous and want to experience the heart and soul of Goa, you don’t have to look far to find unique tours and activities to indulge in. Once you have tasted the singular cuisine and experience the state’s culture, you will find yourself coming back for more over the years.
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