Goa boasts some of India’s most beautiful beaches, stretching along its coastline facing the Arabian Sea. Popular beaches include Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Vagator, and Palolem, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Goa’s biggest draw is undoubtedly its virtually uninterrupted string of golden-sand beaches. This coastline stretches along the Arabian Sea from the tip to the toe of the state, and each beach community has developed its own personality and reputation since the hippie days of the ’60s. They cater to every tropical whim: choose from backpacker Arambol or bolder, brasher Baga; the palm-fringed sands of Palolem, hippie market bliss at Anjuna or lovely, laid-back Mandrem; expansive groomed sands in front of fancy five-star resorts or hidden crescent coves, where the only footprints will be the scuttling crabs’ and your own.

With a history dating back centuries, Goa is a melting pot of Indian and Portuguese influences. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa, home to magnificent churches and cathedrals such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Sé Cathedral. You can also discover colonial-era architecture, traditional villages, and Hindu temples scattered across the state.

Goan cuisine is a highlight of any visit to the region, characterized by its bold flavors and use of local spices and ingredients. Must-try dishes include seafood curry, vindaloo, xacuti, and bebinca, a traditional Goan dessert. Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at beach shacks, local eateries, and upscale restaurants serving authentic Goan fare.

Goa offers a wide range of water sports and activities for adventure enthusiasts. You can try your hand at jet skiing, parasailing, banana boating, windsurfing, and scuba diving at various beaches and water sports centers.

Goa is famous for its vibrant nightlife, particularly in areas like North Goa. From beach parties and clubs to live music venues and bars, there’s something for everyone after the sun goes down. Anjuna, Vagator, and Morjim are popular nightlife hotspots.

Throughout the year, Goa hosts a variety of festivals and events celebrating its rich cultural heritage. The Goa Carnival, Christmas, New Year’s Eve celebrations, and the colorful Shigmo festival are just a few examples of the lively events held in the state.

Beyond its beaches and nightlife, Goa is home to lush landscapes, rivers, and wildlife sanctuaries. Explore the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park to spot diverse flora and fauna, including tropical birds, monkeys, and big cats.

Goa is also a popular destination for wellness retreats, yoga classes, and holistic therapies. Many resorts and retreat centers offer yoga sessions, meditation classes, Ayurvedic treatments, and spa services to promote relaxation and well-being. The best Wellness Holidays in India to rejuvenate and nourish your body, mind & soul. If you are looking for a comprehensive meditation training course and want to deepen your practice, or aspire to pursue the path of a professional meditation teacher, this course is for you. It is also a great opportunity for certified yoga teachers to take part in a continuing education program, particularly in the field of meditation, to expand the knowledge and bring more value to life. Join the course to be inspired, and inspire others with intensive meditation practice

The vibrant and charismatic vibes that Goa exudes are utterly irresistible. Its golden sand beaches and chilled out ambiance never cease to amaze local and foreign travelers. Another thing that adds to the fun and frolic feel of the state is its exuberant festivals. If you miss out on these events in Goa, perhaps, you lose out on a great deal of fun and entertainment.

 Part of the Hippie Trail of the world, Goa is on every hippie travellers' list, and the hippies in Goa have formed a uniquely Goan culture. Goa has been synonymous with the hippie culture since the early 1970s. They have a huge influence on the culture of the coastal state. Here is our guide to the Goan Hippie Culture.