Table of Contents
Goa is one of the most vibrant states of India, famous for its beaches and the Portuguese culture it inherits. The place comprises two districts- North Goa and South Goa. South Goa draws a beautiful scenery of lush greenery, sandy beaches, churches and temples besides palatable sea food.
Furthermore, South Goa is also famous for its nightlife. The nightclubs and funky music in the background add life to the exotic scenery of Goa. In case a trip to this happening place is in your mind, booking a room in one of the hotels in Goa as per your budget is a must. Here is also a complete guide to the must-visit places in South Goa.
Palolem Beach
Palolem Beach is one of the most breathtaking beaches in South Goa, known for its splendid natural beauty. Furthermore, the beach is a mile long so you will not need too much time to explore all the beautiful sites that it has to offer.
The place is marked with shacks and swaying palm trees. Its northern side is more calm and serene compared to the southern part. In case you are an adventure lover the south of the Palolem beach is a must-visit. Activities like kayaking, boat riding, scuba diving, etc.
take place in this region. A Saturday market by the place, lets tourists experience the lively shopping culture of Goa. The best time to visit Palolem Beach is between November and February.
Agonda Beach
Another beach in the Canancona region of South Goa is Agonda Beach. The Agonda is one of the cleanest beaches in Goa. Also, dotted with casuarinas, palm trees, shacks and white sand, which adds to its spectacular beauty offering an authentic Goan vibe. Beach beds are available within the shacks where you can relax and experience the scenic beauty.
Also, the beach provides for water sports to level up the excitement of visiting travellers. Parasailing, motorboat riding and jet skiing are the famous ones. Nonetheless, there are lots of good places to explore around Agonda beach, for instance, Cabo De Rama Fort, Chapoli Dam, etc. The best time to visit this exotic beach is between November and March.
St. Alex Church
The church was constructed in the year 1741 by the Catholic community of Calangute. Presently, it is located in the tourist Mecca of Calangute. It is the only church that presents an Indian style of architecture called the ‘cupola falsa’. Furthermore, the white pristine construction has domed towers with flanks. The interior of the church depicts Robocco style of art with magnificent gilded reredos behind the main altar. Nevertheless, the main altar is dedicated to St. Alex and is also decorated with carvings containing images of angels and saints.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is situated in the Canacona Taluka of South Goa, along the Karnataka border. You can visit the place on your day trip to Palolem Beach. The area hosts multiple varieties of trees, birds and smaller species of animals attracting regular tourists in a consistent manner.
The vegetation in this region is of moist-deciduous type, dispersed with semi-evergreen and evergreen patches. The wildlife here consists of slender loris, mouse deer, Indian pangolin, flying squirrel, Malabar pit viper, four horned-antelope, heart-spotted woodpecker, etc. If you are lucky, you can catch a glimpse of sloth bears, hyenas and porcupines.
Dudhsagar Falls
The splendid falls are located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. The falls stream down from a height of 310 meters. Along the Mandovi river, the four-tiered waterfall marks its presence. The place is named “Dudhsagar falls” due to the milky white cascading effect it forms while flowing down from such a height.
The entire area is surrounded by lush green forests, which provide a picturesque sight. In the past few years, the Dudhsagar Falls has been preferred as one of the most pleasant weekend getaways from the cities of Pune, Bangalore and Mumbai. The best time to visit this majestic waterfall is during the monsoon season. The rain would act as a catalyst to the milky, foamy cascading waterfall that presents an awestruck backdrop of lush green forests.
Pina Colada Beach Shack
The Pina Colada Beach shack is one of the best shack arrangement in South Goa. It is a hidden gem on the Colva beach. The shack is run by a family, which offers a cosy candlelight dinner experience. In addition, the shack provides an opportunity to enjoy freshly caught seafood and exotic cocktails, while watching the beautiful beach. The must-try dishes of the shack are Goan fish curry and pina colada cocktail.
Goa offers a pleasant atmosphere from November to January owing to its coastal climate. Plan your visit to South Goa accordingly, to enjoy the most out of the places listed here.