Goa paints the most stunning picture, with scenic landscapes, lush greenery and the most delicious cuisine. Touted as the party capital of India, the state is often bustling with tourists – both international and Indian. This is not all. The roads that lead to Goa are beautiful, and so are the train journeys to reach the state. Here’s your Goa travel guide to visiting the state – by air, by road and by train.

Goa is undoubtedly among the best places to party in India. With ample beaches, bars, beachside shacks, casinos and more; Goa has also the most perfect weather – especially in the winter months – that make the destination such a lucrative one for travellers.

However, in case you haven’t had someone to guide you right, Goa is also a state that is filled with history and culture. With heavy Portuguese influence, the state is an amalgamation of colours, flavours and cultures which make it as vibrant and rich as its party personality is. There are ample festivals, forts, spice gardens and parks to explore in case you don’t want to spend all your time at the beach, along with water sport adventures and a whole lot more.

This is not all – Goa also boasts of a bountiful nature, with several forests, lush tropical greenery, national parks and more. It is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls – such as the Dudhsagar Falls – and usually, every village or an unexplored niche has its own water bodies for you to marvel at.

The state is also blessed with delectable cuisine – something worth the travel to Goa, even if you don’t have a food guide handy with you. Goans love their food, and some of their dishes such as Vindaloo, Xacuti and Poi breads promise a gamut of flavour. The food is heavy with Konkani and Portuguese influences, and will definitely pack a punch!

What to see in the state

Beaches
Anjuna, Calangute and Morjem are just some of the many popular beaches in Goa. With beachside shacks, hotels and hostels, the state ensures that your travel to Goa is stress-free and a lot of fun, no matter where you are. Go swimming in the water or enjoy the nightlife as the beaches take on a completely new vibe at night, and we promise your experience will be one you never forget!

Forts
Goa is home to several forts – Aguada, Chapora (the one where Dil Chahta Hai was shot) and many, many more. Some of them are in complete ruins while some others are in a much better condition, but if you are a history buff, a trip at these will only enrich you and add to your experience.

Churches
Goa has some stunning churches. These include Basilica of Bom Jesus, Mae De Deu Church and more, which will draw you in with their stunning architecture and a sense of calm they provide to you.
A lot of Goa has a hilly terrain, and it’s no wonder that the state is home to several water bodies. Apart from the Dudhsagar Falls, Goa is home to several waterfalls that you may stumble upon on your journeys, or when you ask locals to guide you throughout your travel in the state.

Spice Gardens
Given its weather, Goa is home to a lot of foliage – and spice gardens form a huge part of them. Take a walk in one (or many) of these gardens to learn more about how local spices are grown. Be sure to bring back some of your favourite ones, and we promise your culinary experiences will change forever!

National Parks
There are as many as six national parks and bird sanctuaries in Goa – housing a plethora of wildlife, flora and natural beauty. From rare birds to common animals, you’ll be able to see them all here.

Visit during the monsoon and winter months – from August to February. Apart from great weather, you’ll also be able to enjoy exciting activities, nature treks, year-end parties, music concerts and a lot more!

Source: Lifestyle Asia (https://www.lifestyleasia.com/ind/travel/destinations/goa-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know/)