Places to visit in North Goa, except Beaches

Goa is more than just beaches and seafood. It has a rich mix of Indian and foreign cultures for centuries. Besides beaches, you can explore its diverse plants and animals, nature parks, and waterfalls. Don’t miss the beautiful historical buildings like monuments, cathedrals, churches, and temples. Depending on which beach you visit, find out about other nearby attractions to include.

This guide will help you plan your visit to interesting places in North Goa except beaches.

Let’s take a look

Best Places to Visit in North Goa Besides Beaches

Some of the must-visit places in North Goa that you must keep in your itinerary:

Fort Aguada

Aguada Fort was built in 1612 to protect against Maratha and Dutch attacks from the sea. It covered the Bardez Peninsula and acted as a guide for ships from Europe. The Portuguese took control of the fort in 1684 and named it Aguada because it had a freshwater spring that supplied water to ships. “Aguada” means water in Portuguese. A distinctive feature of the fort is the lighthouse, which is considered to be one of the oldest and first lighthouses in Asia.

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

If you enjoy watching or taking pictures of birds, you should visit the bird sanctuary named after India’s well-known bird expert, Dr. Salim Ali.Chorão, also called Choddan. It is one of the 17 islands in Goa and is close to this sanctuary. It is known to be a great spot for bird watchers.

Other interesting places nearby are the beautiful Viceroys Tower, made of fine bricks and stones from the 16th century, and the tall St. Augustine Church Tower. Which is 46 meters high, although the rest of the church has not stood the test of time.

Tambdi Surla Temple and Waterfalls

The Shiva temple at Tambdi Surla, inside the Bhagwan Mahavir National Park, was built in the 12th century and shows the Kadamba-Yadava style of architecture. The beautiful design and detailed stone carvings of the temple along with the amazing statues of Vishnu and Brahma, show the skill of the sculptors from that time.

The temple adds to the beauty of the area, which is hard to describe. The best way to enjoy this place is by trekking and taking in its stunning views.

Anjuna Flea Market

The flea market in Anjuna only opens on Wednesdays and is one of the great shopping place in Goa, especially for those who don’t know what to buy. The market is held on Wednesdays, and no matter where you are from, you will surely find something you like. Some items are very inexpensive and if you are in the right mood and dare to bargain, then do so.

Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church

The colonial buildings of Panjim/Panaji are connected by a series of cobbled streets that run parallel to Velha Goa or Old Goa. If you are visiting the palm-lined Miramar Beach of Boracay, make sure to visit the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception. Built in 1540 and built-in La Belle Époque Baroque architecture.

Sri Mangueshi Temple

One of the largest and most popular temples in Goa, this temple is 450 years old. There is another attractive building in the complex – the seven-storey Deep Stambh, this temple is very beautiful and, it seems, rather elegant. There are also standards of dress code for people visiting the temple. The original temple was built in Mormugao, while after the Portuguese invasion of Goa, the temple was moved to Priol.

Chapora Fort

Built with much grandness, the Chapora Fort holds the tale of the battles fought between various kings to gain control of this important region: Akbar used the fort as his base. It is one of the most beautiful locations in Goa. Which offering amazing scenic views across the Chapora River to Pernem and beyond to the expanse of the Arabian Sea, giving a spectacular view of the setting sun.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, North Goa

Compact, clean, and well-equipped, this wildlife sanctuary is neat and tidy and has many animals for close viewing. There are food plants in and around the zoo, which gives visitors another bonus

Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa, North Goa

Old Goa, also known as Velha Goa, was the capital of Portuguese India, and you can see many buildings from that time here. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the Baroque style churches recognized by UNESCO and is located in Goa.

Built around 1605, this large church is a great example of Jesuit architecture and is considered one of the holiest churches in the world. Inside there is a beautiful wooden statue of St. Francis Xavier and his body is also buried there. While in Old Goa, you should also think about visiting the Se Cathedral.

The Latin Quarters of Panjim

If you are interested in knowing the lifestyle of Goa during the time of Portugal, visit The Latin Quarters of Panjim. One may have to walk for hours and explore the shady streets to see their beauty and the intricate curves of the houses. After all this, one must visit Panjim and enjoy Goan cuisine.

Conclusion

There are plenty of places to visit in North Goa except beaches. From historic forts and churches to wildlife, markets, and beaches, North Goa. It is a place that will offer something to every kind of traveler. So whether you are historically inclined, love nature, or culture, there is something unique for you here.

For a relaxing stay and to feel the real charm of Goa, stay at White Flower Cottages. One of the best resort in north goa located right next to the Vagator Beach. It offers you the best of luxury, ambiance, and access to all these wonderful attractions. So that you can have a wonderful time in North Goa.

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