Goa Tour Packages

Goa Trip Package

Are you ready to head out with your sunglasses and flip flops in style, put that sunscreen to good use and frolic on the beach? Goa is a paradise for beach lovers in India. Loved by Indians and foreign tourists alike, this place is famous for its wide sandy beaches. Apart from the beaches, Goa also offers a multitude of fun things to do to keep you busy day and night. The hustle and bustle that you will find in Goa at night will exceed your expectations.

If Goa nightlife is not what interests you, then visit Goa for its array of water sports. The famous beaches in Goa like Baga and Calangute offer water sports for both amateurs as well as professionals. Tourists can enjoy a wide variety of fun activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, water scooter rides among others.  Your Goa trip plan can have a package that offers a variety of all these activities. Why settle for less when you can get exciting Goa offers on MakeMyTrip!

Check out the MakeMyTrip website or app for a variety of offers on Goa tour packages, including specially curated Goa packages for couples, as well as family holiday packages for Goa. Book your Goa honeymoon package with stays near the famous beaches in Goa. Many MakeMyTrip Goa packages also include special add-ons like complimentary transfers and Goa sightseeing, to make your Goa holiday even more convenient. So go ahead and plan a Goa getaway by picking your most suitable Goa tour package.

Best time to visit Goa

Goa features a warm and humid climate all year round, typical of the tropical regions. The hottest month of the year in Goa stands out to be May, with peak temperatures soaring above 35°C, along with high humidity. The best time to visit Goa is from November to February. The Goa weather during this period stays predictably cool and the beaches are thronged with tourists coming here to enjoy the extensive Christmas and New Year celebrations. If you are looking for some quiet time with your family or your partner, then opt for the months of March and April which are neither super peak season for Goa tourism, nor impacted by the warming of Goa weather as much as later months. MakeMyTrip offers some exclusive Goa tourism packages for families and honeymooners. Otherwise, you can choose to enjoy the romantic Goa weather during the monsoon rains and visit from mid-June to October. In fact, if you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a wonderful romantic stay in a Goa resort, then the monsoon is the best time to visit Goa.

So, pack your bags and find the best Goa tour packages suitable to your vacation time and budget on MakeMyTrip.

How to reach Goa

Depending on where you have booked your Goa package from, you can travel to Goa by air, rail or road. Goa international airport connects Goa to cities across India as well as various international destinations like Doha, Dubai etc.  One can also take a train to Goa from Mumbai and other major cities in India. The Konkan Railway also covers stations in Goa. Apart from rail, Goa is also accessible by bus from many cities. One can travel by bus to Goa from Mumbai, Bangalore, Mangalore, Hyderabad, Pune etc.

If you are planning a Goa trip, be on the lookout as MakeMyTrip introduces seasonal discounts on Goa packages from time to time.

Best beaches in Goa

The first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of Goa is – beach! No wonder, because Goa beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Here is our list of the top, must-visit, most famous beaches in Goa. Do add a visit to some of these in your Goa package! If you are booking a Goa honeymoon package, consider booking at least a part of your stay in a beachfront hotel!

Other places to visit in Goa 

Goa tourism is a lot more than just the shining sun, or a sandy beach stretching along a beautiful shoreline. The place has a lot to offer to make your Goa honeymoon trip or your family Goa holiday memorable. Here are some significant Goa tourist places that should be included in a Goa city tour or excursion.

1. Grand Island

Grand Island is one of the most popular islands in South Goa. The island offers a variety of adventurous water sports and can be reached by a boat ride. From diving to snorkelling to fishing, this island has a water activity for everyone. Take a boat tour of the mesmerizing Grand Island to witness cheerful dolphins in the middle of the Arabian Sea. One can get a glimpse of other attractions like Aguada Fort, Goa Jail, and Millionaire’s Palace from the boat. Explore the exotic underwater life with snorkelling or scuba diving. Along with some reefs, one can also find shipwrecks. The tour to Grand Island can be booked along with Goa packages. It is a very popular inclusion in MakeMyTrip’s Goa honeymoon packages.

2. Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Located in South Goa, the Dudhsagar Falls are a magnificent marvel of nature. Serene and spectacular, it is one of Goa's most breathtaking sights. Dropping down from a height of 1,017 feet amidst dense jungle over four tiers, it is counted amongst the highest waterfalls in India. Approximately 60 kilometers away from Panjim, on the NH4A, it is located on the border between Goa and Karnataka. The pure white gush of water cascades down into an emerald lake at the bottom and offers amazing photo opportunities. The literal meaning of the term ‘Dudhsagar’ is ‘Sea of Milk’, which is mainly because of the illusion of the white spray the waterfall creates when it cascades down into the pool. The waterfall is also known for its immense bird and animal population. Tourists can see the Dudhsagar Waterfall from a distance. Else, one can trek to get a closer look at the falls. This is one of the best places to visit in Goa especially for couples and groups of friends.

3. Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada is a fine example of Portuguese architecture built in the early 16^th century. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, it offers a stunning view of the beautiful sea and its surroundings. Constructed in the year 1612 to protect Goa from enemy attacks, the majestic Aguada Fort is perched over the Sinquerim beach. One can see a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea from the fort. Ringed with a thick battlement, the fort features a 13-meter high lighthouse built in 1864 and a vaulted cistern. The fort and its lighthouse is an ideal place to click beautiful pictures. Another star attraction is the Church of St. Lawrence, patron saint of the sailors. The church was built at the outskirts of the fort to prevent it from being fired upon at close range. This is one of the oldest Goa tourist places in North Goa.

4. Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort is located in North Goa and is a perfect place for a leisure stroll. Perched upon a hill, the fort overlooks the Chapora River and offers a splendid view of the surroundings. Located on the top of a hillock with slopes on all sides in North Goa, Chapora Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1617. Presently in ruins, the fort offers a beautiful view of the adjoining Vagator and Anjuna beach. While taking a tour, do not forget to see the heads of the escape tunnels built by the Portuguese.

5. Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a popular church in North Goa and one of the main Goa tourist places included in an Old Goa city tour, features Baroque style architecture with beautiful mosaic Corinthian style interiors. Counted amongst the famous churches of Goa, especially in the Roman Catholic world, the Basilica of Bom Jesus features a tomb and mortal remains of St Francis Xavier. Located in Old Goa, the church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The un-plastered exterior of the church might be deceiving, but the charming interior is beautiful. The main altar of the church holds a large statue of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), and one of Francis Xavier's companions. There's also a modern art gallery with paintings depicting various Biblical scenes. 

6. Anjuna Flea Market

One of the most popular and coolest markets of North Goa is the Anjuna Flea Market. It’s a perfect place to shop, eat and enjoy live local bands. Bringing elements from around the world in one place, the Anjuna Flea market is one of the most famous tourist attractions of Goa. Offering an unforgettable experience, the market offers dreadlock makers, nose and body piercers, and professional hairdressers, who would cut and paint your hair in any style possible. Visitors can also get unique patterns painted on their body. Tourists could also enjoy delicious Indian, Israeli and Western cuisines or shop for Tibetan goods, junk jewelry, handicrafts, crystals, semi-precious stones, fancy knives, and many other remnants. The market is located a short walk away from Anjuna Beach and one of the best places to visit in Goa especially for couples and groups of friends.

7. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Goa. Spread across an area of 8 km and perched at a height of 3000 feet on the lush foothills of Western Ghats, Bondla Wildlife sanctuary nurtures the amazing flora and fauna of Goa. It is a natural home to a wide variety of animals like Leopards, Jackals, Gaur, Deer, Porcupines, and Sloth Bear, along with species of birds like Brown Fish Owl, Indian Scimitar Babbler, Ruby-throated Yellow Bulbul, and Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher. Speckled with bamboo plantations, rosewood trees, medicinal herbs, and beautiful orchids, the sanctuary is also home to a mini zoo, a botanical garden, a rose garden, and a fenced deer park inside the area. The wildlife sanctuary remains closed on Mondays.

8. Mapusa Friday Market

One of the best things to do in Goa is to visit the vibrant Mapusa Friday Market. It’s a traditional Goan market buzzing with local traders and sellers who sell a variety of local items. Mapusa Friday market is one of the popular traditional Goan markets for ardent shoppers. The market takes place every Friday and is bustling with local vendors and traders from all over the Goa. At this vibrant market, one can buy items such as antiques, Goan pottery, handicrafts, textiles, clothing, spices, fresh fruits and vegetables and much more. There is a spice street, a bakery section, a fish street and many other sections from where tourists can buy items at a reasonable price.

9. Dona Paula

Dona Paula beach in North Goa is just 7km from Panjim. It is a popular beach offering good views of the Marmugao harbor. It offers various watersport and sightseeing activities for tourists. According to a myth, at night, the beach is visited by Dona Paula, who emerges from the sea wearing only a necklace of pearls in search of her love. People also believe that Dona Paula committed suicide on this beach. Her tomb, Cabo Raj Niwas, can also be found here. One can enjoy a lovely view of the Arabian Sea from the beach. Other sightseeing options nearby include Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, National Oceanography Institute and Reis Magos Church. Tourists can also engage in water activities like windsurfing, parasailing, snorkelling etc. Beachside restaurants are also available on the beach that serve delectable sea-food and other varieties.

10. Arvalem Waterfall

Arvalem Waterfall is one of the spectacular sightseeing spots in Goa. The water gushes down from a height of 50 metres into the lake at the bottom. The scenic surroundings are ideal to enjoy picnics with family and friends. The majestic sight of the Arvalem waterfall will leave one with awe and wonder. The falls are surrounded with hilly slopes covered in lush greenery. There is a well-maintained park near the waterfall which is an ideal picnic spot to enjoy the waterfalls. A little away from the waterfalls, there is an old arched bridge which also offers a great view of the waterfalls. Other nearby attractions include the historical Rudraksha Temple and the carved Arvalem rock caves.

What to eat in Goa

Goan food is an art form in its own right. Be it seafood in ‘Portuguese-style’ variants or modified versions of popular snack foods, it is a table of delights worth exploring. Here are some suggestions of popular Goan dishes you could try on your Goa trip.

The Xacuti curry:  This popular Goan dish is a rich, spicy coconut curry is spiced primarily with red chillies, nutmeg and star anise. It is usually made with chicken but can be made with pork or crab too. Have it with Goan red rice, or even with the Goan bread known as Poi or Pao.

Goan desserts: Here is a series of Goan sweets that are all coconut-based but are different in their preparation, ingredients and taste. The ‘boll’ (large, hard, sweet, cookie-like), ‘dodol’ (soft, pudding-like, flour-jaggery based dessert), ‘dosh’ (melt-in-mouth dessert like ‘barfi’), and ‘bebinca’ (layered cake) are some of the recommended ones. The ‘bebinca’ is a Goan bakery delight baked in a traditional stone oven. This is as authentic as Goan food can get!

 Fried fish: Yes, it’s special and delicious at the same time. The ‘Rava fried fish’ is a seafood delight in which the fish is cut open, cleaned and stuffed with a paste of garlic, ginger and red chillies. The result is a mouth-watering, crunchy delight that will leave you with sublime memories of the Goan food you enjoyed on your Goa holiday. 

Goan street food: Goa boasts of a variety of bakery and fried food items bustling on road-side stalls, all of them beyond exceptionally good in taste. Goa’s unique and age-old bakeries and roadside eateries have different versions of beef croquettes, egg chops, fish chops, vada pav, cutlet bread, prawn rissoi etc.   

Caldinho curry: This sweetish, mellow curry is another coconut based Goan curry and can be made with chicken, prawns or vegetables. It is perfect for those wishing to try Goan food but not comfortable with high spice levels. Have it with rice or even bread. 

Things to do in Goa apart from visiting Goa beaches

Goa is indeed a beautiful place, full of surprises and exciting exploration. Most people plan their Goa sightseeing around the beaches of North Goa and South Goa, however, there are a ton of things to do in Goa apart from visiting Goa beaches.

Here are just 10 of our suggestions for some additional cool things to do in Goa:

Hot Air Ballooning

Goa is not only home to adventurous water activities but also air-borne activities. Hot-air ballooning is one of the best things to do in Goa if you want to enjoy the beauty of sun, sand, greenery from a vantage point. A hot-air balloon floats high up in the air and offers a stunning view of the calm blue waters, shimmering beaches, lush green scenery and a breathtaking panoramic view of Goa. Enjoy a fun ride with your family and friends as you fly over the enchanting landscape of Goa. This unique Goa sightseeing tour is a highly recommended add-on especially for a Goa honeymoon package. 

Sailing/Yacht ride

Taking a yacht ride is one of the best ways to enjoy the surreal beauty of the Arabian Sea in Goa. Set sail across the deep blue waters and have an enthralling experience with your family and friends. Enjoy great views of the vast blue sea and the picturesque coastline of Goa in the distance. If you take the cruise at the right time, you could even have an opportunity to witness a mesmerizing sunset from the boat. A relaxed ride along with the cool sea-breeze will refresh your senses and will leave you with an unforgettable memory of your Goa trip. 

Dolphin Spotting

Dolphin spotting is one of the major activity that is enjoyed by tourists booking Goa tour packages. The sight of dolphins dipping and swimming elegantly in their natural habitat is a wonderful sight to behold. One can take a boat ride and witness dolphins swimming alongside the boat. Experience a close encounter with these lovely creatures as they dance and twirl in the sea. Palolem Beach, Sinquerim Beach, Morjim Beach, Coco Beach and Cavelossim Beach are some of the best beaches in Goa that offer this enticing experience. It is possible to customize MakeMyTrip Goa packages to include this activity. 

Clubbing 

Apart from its pristine beaches and water adventures, Goa is also known for its thriving nightlife. Goa has an assortment of some of the best clubs in India. If you are a party animal and love grooving to your favourite beats while enjoying exotic drinks, then Goa is the place to be. Some of the hottest Goa places to party in are Love Passion Karma in Nerul and Club Cubana in Arpora. Enjoy a night full of trance music, neon lights, delectable food, amazing drinks and dance to your favourite international tracks until the sun comes up.

Spend an afternoon at a Beach Shack

Spend a laid-back afternoon at one of the many Beach Shacks in Goa. Goa’s beaches are lined with numerous shacks that are typical Goa tourist places offering wooden benches, beach loungers, and hammocks for a perfect relaxed afternoon. A beach shack is an ideal place to soak up the sun and read your favourite book, or just watch the waves. One can also indulge in authentic sea-food that is also served at these shacks.  Curlies Beach Shack at Anjuna beach is one of the most popular beach shacks in Goa. Bubble’s Beach Shack in Vagator, Brittos in Baga, and Pina Colada Beach Shack in Colva, are other popular Goa places where you can retreat to spend some quality time with your friends and family. 

Visit a spice plantation

Add spice to your Goa sightseeing by visiting a spice plantation in Goa. Goa is home to many spice villages and farms, which can give you a glimpse into the manufacturing of spices. Enjoy exploring an aromatic spice plantation which will refresh your senses. Learn the process of growing a variety of spices as you walk through the plantation site. You can also buy and take home some of the freshly manufactured spices and seasonings. A spice plantation tour is a popular inclusion in Goa packages for families as well as couples.

Try a Goan meal

A trip to Goa is incomplete without indulging in an authentic Goan meal. With rich influences of Portuguese, Indian and Catholic flavours, Goan cuisine is popular among tourists as well as locals. One can try a variety of Goan dishes cooked with aromatic Goan spices which impart it a unique flavour. Relish the mouth-watering dishes like Goan fish curry, Chicken Xacuti, Prawn Vindaloo, and Bebinca, the traditional dessert of Goa. Pousada by the Beach, Martin’s Corner, Soi, Souza Lobo and Mum’s Kitchen are some of the best Goa restaurants which serve delectable and authentic Goan cuisine.

Hire a Scooty

One of the best ways to explore Goa is to hire a scooty and ride through the charming Goa city and village streets. Enjoy the beautiful sights of the picturesque beaches, vibrant shops and historical landmarks. Explore Goa city at your own pace and convenience without having to follow any guide or timings. Crash beach parties, stop by a beach for a leisure walk, discover local markets, relax at a shack and relish amazing sea-food, and marvel at Old Goan churches. This experience will give you an opportunity to discover Goa places in your own way. A scooty hire is a must-do if you are considering a Goa trip with your friends, or a Goa honeymoon package.

Go shopping in Panjim

From street markets to trendy malls, Panjim in North Goa is a paradise for shopping lovers. Wander through the Municipal Market which sells a wide variety of local handicrafts, authentic Goan spices, handmade jewellery, unique souvenirs etc. at a reasonable price. For branded items, one can visit various malls and high-end stores in Panjim. For instance, at Caculo Mall you can buy designer clothes from your favourite international brands. Barefoot is another store, where you can buy stylish Bohemian home décor items. For art lovers, Marcou Artifacts has Goan and Portuguese ceramics which you can take home as a memory of your Goa trip.

We hope this guide to Goa beaches as well as all the places to visit in Goa and the fun things to do in Goa will help you freeze your plan for your own Goa holiday. So go ahead and start shortlisting your preferred Goa packages, and let your Goa trip plan become a reality.

Goa is the one ultimate vacation spot in India that always arouses excitement and never gets old. Plan your Goa holidays and explore this sea-side small state in western India which is known across the globe for its serene beaches, bustling nightlife and delicious seafood. You can book your Goa tour package with MakeMyTrip and explore the colonial-style architecture of Goa in its ancient forts, old bungalows and white-washed churches. Book your Goa holidays now to enjoy long walks on the serene coastlines, with golden sand beaches and mouthwatering seafood snacks at the beach shacks.

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