Goa is one of the most popular tourist spots in India, and with its tropical climate, white sand beaches, and rich culture, it’s easy to see why so many travelers have made it their holiday destination of choice. The only downside of Goa, or at least what some would consider a downside, is that it’s relatively small. This makes planning your trip to the Mandovi river cruise there somewhat difficult if you want to see as much as possible on your visit there.
A Trip from Panjim to Goa Velha
If you want to travel from Panjim (the main city in Goa) to a more peaceful and romantic destination, take a trip on the Mandovi river cruise. This journey takes about 35 minutes each way but is totally worth it. You’ll cruise through the water which will be teeming with life and enjoy views of exotic houses as well as luscious palm trees lining its banks. While cruising along you can also enjoy live music and watch local artisans perform their skills like making sandalwood items or fishing nets.
Voyage along the river
The Mandovi river lies in Goa and its bank is dotted with many estuaries, beaches, ports, and other places of interest. Tourists can take a cruise down these waters and enjoy their beauty from up close. It is very popular in tourist season as it is an attractive way to travel downriver at a leisurely pace.
Placencia in Belgaum
Placencia is a beautiful coastal town in Goa with panoramic views and breathtaking beaches. Placencia, which is also called Belgaum, will sweep you off your feet with its natural beauty and pleasant atmosphere. Plan your vacation there and experience an altogether different level of blissful holiday. No wonder it has been chosen as one of the top 100 destinations in India by Conde Nast Traveler magazine. Explore it now!
Vagator Beach
One of many beautiful beaches in Goa, Vagator Beach is known for its fine white sand and crystal clear waters. It’s a great place for swimming, fishing, and snorkeling. Tourists can also enjoy other activities like volleyball, beach soccer, body surfing, and water skiing. There are also many resorts nearby that offer facilities like volleyball courts, table tennis, and pool tables. It is a small village located on Bardez-Vasco Road near Anjuna Beach.
Anjuna Market
If you like shopping, you will love visiting Anjuna. It is located 30 minutes from Panaji and is one of India’s biggest markets for hippies and travelers. You can find virtually anything here including clothing, jewelry, food, pottery, and much more. It’s a lively place that’s great for bartering and haggling over prices. While you are there, be sure to check out their colorful markets!
Miramar Beach, Arambol and Morjim
Located in North Goa, these three beaches are some of India’s most pristine and beautiful. One can be forgiven for falling in love with them at first sight. While there are many activities that one can indulge in here, water sports is one of them. For starters, you could go parasailing on a clear day and stare up at a sky full of floating parasails while gliding over crystal clear waters.
The Lesser Known Charm of Mapusa
If you are in Goa, it is important that you make sure that you explore each part of it. There are some amazing places that can be included as a part of your stay in Goa. One such place is Mapusa. Mapusa is a town situated about 40 km away from Panjim, which is located at its north end and 20 km away from Margao at its south end.
Fort Aguada with its Natural Pool
Fort Aguada is a historical fort that overlooks the Arabian Sea and is located at a distance of 12 km from Panaji. It was built in 1712 by architect Manuel Gomes as a defense against invading Marathas. There are several legends associated with it, but these remain unconfirmed to date. Even today, you can find cannons and remnants of that period inside it. One such legendary story suggests that during his imprisonment in Portugal, Tipu Sultan ordered for mines to be made for his freedom.
Old Goa (Vasco da Gama arrived here!)
With its magnificent churches, narrow alleys, and busy markets, Old Goa is a city that can only be described as picturesque. Be sure to visit its UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Old Goan Church, Se Cathedral, and St. Francis Church while you’re here. Don’t forget to shop at some of its vibrant marketplaces! For lunch, there are many restaurants by the beachside that serve fresh seafood!
Dempo S.C. Stadium – Home ground of Salgaocar FC
Dempo Sports Club Stadium is one of Goa’s biggest and best sporting arenas. It is located in Vasco da Gama and has a capacity of more than 20,000 people. It is one of India’s oldest stadiums, being used by football clubs Salgaocar FC and Dempo SC, who have played some high-profile games on its turf over their history.
Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa (Paul was buried here!)
For Goans, Francis Xavier is a favorite saint; in fact, he’s considered their patron. His body was originally interred at Saint Paul Cathedral in Old Goa but moved to the Basilica of Bom Jesus when that church was completed.
Conclusion
Cruises in Goa are the most demanding for family and friends vacations. However, the Mandovi river cruise tour is the best of them in my experience.
