Top 10 Places to Visit in Goa Other than Beaches

If you really want to explore the majestic architecture and culture of Portuguese, add this to your list of must visit places in Goa. This architectural gem is among the oldest churches in India and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yes, the built-in 1605 is a true masterpiece. You will be awestruck by the fine craftsmanship of the interiors and their delicate designs. If you look keenly at the walls and pillars of the church altar, you would notice ornate inscriptions in Portuguese and Latin languages.

The list of hidden gems in Goa must name the Arvalem Falls! This waterfall will set your mood and make your Goa trip worth it. Believe us, the scenic beauty of this place is immaculate. The milky white water cascading down the rocks and boulders, while surrounded by dense forest, is something you will love to capture in your mind and in your camera too. When you are visiting the fall, don't forget to dip into the cold water. And if the place looks similar, you might have seen it in some film. Because this fall is a popular spot for film shooting!

We will use two words for describing a trip to Cabo de Rama Fort, one of the best places to visit in Goa. Peace and serenity! The fort has an interesting history entwined with it. Both Portuguese and Hindu rulers helped in building this architectural wonder. This heritage site will definitely spike your interest in the culture and history of Goa, it sure did to us! Also, the view of the Arabian Sea from the ruins of the fort is spectacular. While you stroll around the fort, you will come across huge canons lying on the ground which were once used for wars.

This is one of the best places to visit in Goa. The fort has Portuguese-style architecture and was built in the 17th century. The best part about this fort is that apart from visiting this fort, you can also stay here. Because it has been turned into a hotel for tourists. There are seven rooms. Each room is named after a week and has an amazing view of the spectacular landscape. The best thing to do here is to watch the splendid Indian Ocean and relax.

Caves and Goa, an uncommon combination, but is truly fascinating! And on this list of places to visit in Goa, we now have Arvalem Caves! This is also known as the Pandavas caves. According to legends, the five Pandavas took shelter in these caves during their exile. There is a mystical aura in the caves and it will further enchant you with its rock formations and sheer natural beauty. Also, it is one of the offbeat places in Goa, so you would not find much of a crowd here.

Surely, you have watched Dil Chahta Hai, and wondered about the iconic scene where the lead trio was sitting on a wall, looking at the Arabian Sea. Well, it was none other than Chapora Fort of Goa. This is why this fort makes its place among the most popular Goa places to visit. Apart from being a place for film shooting, it was once a ground for great battles. You can learn a great deal about the history and heritage connected with Chapora Fort once you pay a visit! Bring your camera along with you and click amazing pictures of the beautiful landscape and the sea!

The list of Goa beautiful places would be incomplete without adding the Fontainhas neighbourhood to it. This iconic place is a small Latin establishment that still gives glimpses of the Portuguese culture and tradition, even though they left Goa centuries ago. The lanes of this small town are dotted with colourful buildings and small shops. This is also a very romantic place, where you can spend quality time with your partner away from the hustle and bustle of Goa. don't forget to try the delicious cookies baked here in the bakeries. They are delicious!

You love learning about the history and heritage of India and its places? Why don’t you include St. Augustine ruins in your itinerary? St. Augustine is among the best offbeat places in Goa and is laid with structural delight and historic references. The lonely tower of these ruins is 400 years old! You can admire the architecture of the cathedral as it is from the Renaissance era. You can even admire the multi-coloured tiles and paintings in the interior of the church. Time for a fun fact! This ruin is among the top buildings of Iberian architecture of the world. How cool is that!

Let’s now look at the Savoi Spice Plantation which is one of the best places to visit near Goa. We all know how enriching the soils of Goa are, which is why you will find plenty of farming lands and cashew farms. But, this plantation is known as the organic paradise of Goa. As you explore the region, you will see and learn about the rare herbs, popular orchids, unique spices and condiments. Your senses will be mesmerised by the aromas of various herbs and spices planted here.

This list would be totally incomplete without including a place for shopping and hanging out. So, Goa presents Anjuna Flea Market! It is known as one of the best Goa destinations after the exotic beaches and tourist spots. If you are a shopaholic (and are good at bargaining), this place is perfect for you! Be is Goan music, art, culture, fashion, you name it, and Anjuna Flea Market has it. When you are here, try and notice the Goan and Bohemian style and culture!

So, don’t let your next Goa trip be all about beaches. Let it be also about the forts, the caves and the waterfalls of Goa!