4 Best tourist places in Goa you should definitely visit

Every person wishes to visit Goa at least once in his lifetime, and why not? Goa is one of the most popular tourist attractions in India. It also has a history of foreign invasions as the Portuguese had this region under their influence for years. There are many famous landmarks, world heritage sites, beautiful churches, peaceful beaches, historic forts, or attractive local markets in Goa. Furthermore, there are water sports and many natural attractions that you wouldn't want to miss.

There are so many places that it may be challenging to visit all of them in a short duration. To ease your task, here are four must-visit places that you should go at least once when you travel Goa.

Chapora Fort

It is located in Bardez, North Goa this fort is 21.7km from Panaji and 700meters from Vagator Beach. Chapora Fort is usually an evening haunt to chill out, and it overlooks Chapora river. This fort is also known as "Dil Chahta hai" fort, which means "the heart yearns." The reason behind this unusual name is that the blockbuster movie "Dil Chahta hai" was shot here in 2001.

Chapora fort was held by many rulers- Muslims, Portuguese, and Marathas in the past centuries. Built by a Muslim ruler, Adil Shah, it was named as Shahpura- Town of the Shahs. The Portuguese then took over the fort and gradually the name changed to Chapora.

Chapora fort commands views in all directions- from Chapora river to Pernum in the north, Vagator in the south and the Arabian Sea in the west. In fact, Chapora river and Arabian sea meet here. As mentioned earlier, this place is usually visited in the evening as the sunset here looks spectacular.

Bon Jesus Basilica

Bom Jesus Basilica, popularly known as Borea Jezuchi Bajilika, is Goa's most famous church. This church, located around 10km east of Panaji, is the only church in old Goa. Even though the church is partially in ruins, it is a model of simplicity and elegance. This church is a world heritage monument. The roof of this church was initially tilted. The lime plaster of this church was stripped off by a Portuguese conservationist in 1950, and hence, it is till now, plasterless from the outside. The foundation of this church was laid on 24 November 1594. It was declared sacred in May 1605 by Fr. Alexia de Menezes, the archbishop of Goa.

The church is called Bom Jesus, meaning good Jesus or infant Jesus to whom it was dedicated. The pillars and details have been carved from basalt brought from Bassein. There are two chapels, the main altar and a sacristy inside the church. The main altar is flanked by two decorated altars, one dedicated to our lady of hope and other to St. Michael. This church holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier, a good friend of St. Ignatius Loyola. They both founded the Society of Jesus.

Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar falls, situated at the Goa Karnataka border, is the 5th largest waterfall in India. It is located 47km from Margao. Dudhsagar means a sea of milk which refers to the milky white water flowing from the Mandovi river. It is a four-tiered waterfall, but only a few can be seen unless you visit the viewpoints.

One can have a one day trip from the beaches of Goa and come back on the same day or can stay overnight in one of the nearby hotels and resorts. There are various ways to reach Dudhsagar falls. One can trek from castle rock railway station, Kulem, Kuveshi or Dudhsagar rail station. The rainy season is when the scenery is at its best. July is the best month to visit Dudhsagar falls. However, the roads are slippery due to moisture during monsoon. November to January is also an excellent time to visit this place as the forest is lush after the monsoons. You can find how to reach this place on LBB’s website.

Baga Beach

This beach is situated in north Goa between Baga river in the north and Calangute beach in the south. It is about 1km from Panaji. This beach has plenty of beach shacks, coffee bars, clubs, and shops. It comes under one of the best party spots. For all the party lovers, there are many nightclubs and discos. The seaside is full of restaurants, cafes, shops, resorts, Thai massage parlors, tattoo parlors, and whatnot. For all the adventure lovers, Baga beach has made jet skiing, windsurfing and parasailing available.

The Arpora Saturday night flea market, a paradise for food lovers has all different types of cuisines available. Mackie's night bazaar offers shopping, entertainment, music, and food. Baga beach can be scorching during summer, so the best time to visit this place is during winter where the temperature is mild at around 30 degree Celsius.

It will be a thrilling experience to visit these four places whenever you travel to Goa. You can find more about these places on LBB’s website under Goa category. The scenic beauty of these places will fill you up with tranquility and harmony. Hope, this review was helpful to guide you about four places that you must visit when you travel to Goa. Happy Journey!