Goa is just for beaches! Tired of hearing this already? Wait, we are not repeating the same old line. The most incredible places to visit in North Goa have nothing to do with beaches. So if you want to pass the beach treat and discover something new, read this guide till the end.
It has everything that you need to hear before planning a trip to Goa in 2025. From mysterious forts to dazzling flea markets, a list of destinations awaits your arrival. Get a complete guide and make your North Goa journey worthwhile.
The North-Goan Delight: 7 Unmissable Spots For Your Trip!
Being a treasure trove of vibrant culture and memorable experiences, North Goa deserves a visit at least once in a lifetime. But going unprepared can add unnecessary troubles to the list. So, plan your trip ahead, and check out these 7 heavenly places to visit in North Goa.
1. Chapora Fort
Let’s start the list with a fort that extends its view up to the Arabian Sea and depicts the epic craftsmanship of the rule of Adil Shah in Bijapur. This ancient fort site has been present ever before the Portuguese arrival in Goa in 1510. It lies 21.7 kilometers from Panaji.
| Timing: | 10: 00 AM to 05.30 PM |
| Entry Fees: | Entry is free of cost. |
| Reasons To Visit: |
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| Nearby Attractions: | On reaching the Fort, you can visit Vagator Beach, Morjim Beach, and Anjuna Beach. The Siolim Fish Market is also very close to the fort. |
2. Bondla Sanctuary
Too happening to be true, the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is another one on the list. A small, well-organized, and clean sanctuary, the place is ideal for those who love to spend time with nature. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in North Goa and here are proofs:
| Timing: | 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM |
| Entry Fees: | INR 50. |
| Things You Can Carry: | ID Card, Camera, Selfie stick, Cap, Sunglasses, Medicine, Powerbank & Sunscreen |
| Things You Can’t Carry | Alcohol, Food, Weapons, Pets, Skates, Plastic Bags and Smoking Ingredients |
| Nearby Attractions: | Deer Safari Park, Spacious Lawns, Nature Trails. |
3. Anjuna Flea Market
This Wednesday Flea Market is absolutely unmissable if you are in North Goa. Clothes, decor, and jewelry- everything about this place is vibrant. From shopping for yourself to buying souvenirs, Anjuna Flea Market is a must-visit destination.
Moreover, the strategic location of the market makes it easily accessible from all villas in North Goa for rent, literally!
| Timings: | 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM |
| Entry Fees: | Free |
| Seasonal Availability: | The market remains operational from October to May. |
| Best Time: | Early morning and late afternoons are the best time to avoid crowds. |
| Nearby Attractions: | Blue Whale Water Park, Chapora Fort, and Anjuna Beach. |
4. Harvalem Waterfall
In the list of amazing places to visit in North Goa, Harvalem Waterfall deserves significant mention. Just 30 km away from Panaji near the Sanquelim village, the Harvalem or Arvalem Waterfall steals all the attention. For water lovers, who are looking for something else than beaches, this is no less than a hidden gem.
| Advisable Timings: | 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM |
| Trip Duration: | 2-3 Hours |
| Options For Commute: | You can opt for the bus, cab, auto, or rental bike from Kadamba Bus Terminus. |
| Best Time: | The monsoon season is the optimum time to view the falls in its full glory. |
| Nearby Attractions: | Mayem Lake, Tambdi Surla Temple, Sharvraj Eco Farm. |
5. Aguada Fort
The crumbling embarkments of one of the most impregnable Indian forts give a panoramic view of the Mandori River and Arabian Sea confluence. Yep, you guessed that right! We are talking about the majestic Aguada Fort which is one of the most alluring constructions the Portuguese left behind. The fort encompasses luxurious beach properties in North Goa, offering a vista.
| Advisable Timings: | 09:30 AM to 06:00 PM |
| Location | Aguada Fort is nestled in the Aguada-Siolim Road in Candolim, Goa. |
| Popular Name: | Fort Aguada is famously regarded as a symbol of protection by Portuguese sailors owing to its unreachable heights. |
| Distance: | The fort is only 11 km away from Baga Beach and millions of Taxis or local cabs are available. |
| Nearby Attractions: | Aguada Lighthouse, Aguada Jail, Sinquerim Beach, St. Alex Church |
6. Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
The ornithologist’s paradise, Salim Ali Sanctuary consists of birds from millions of species. More than 400 species of both migratory and resident birds make this destination a heavenly retreat. Nestled on Chorao Island, add this one to your list of exciting places to visit in North Goa.
| Advisable Timings: | 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM |
| Location | Chorao, Goa, India. |
| Popular Bird Species: | Little Bittern, Black Bittern, Jack Snipe, Pied Avocet and Red Knot. |
| Specialty: | Infamous for its extensive avian diversity, the sanctuary holds more than 400 bird species. |
| Nearby Attractions: | Viceroy’s Tower, St. Augustine’s Church Complex |
7. Basilica of Bom Jesus
Last but not least, one of the best places to visit in North Goa is the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Reigning as the capital of Portuguese India for a long time, this one has also been listed as a captivating site by UNESCO. Established in 1605, the church is an exemplary Jesuit architecture.
| Timings: | 09:00 AM to 06:30 PM |
| Entry fee: | Free |
| Location: | The church is 250 miles south of Bombay, thus making it an accessible tourist destination. |
| Nearby Attractions: | Se Cathedral Church, Immaculate Conception Church, Fort Aguada, Reis Magos Fort and Archaeological Museum |
Concluding Words
With this, it’s a wrap on this article! Do tell us which of these alluring places to visit in North Goa attracted you the most by commenting below. Get over the mundane beaches, instead visit these heavenly destinations and make the most of your trip.
If you are worrying about your stay, we have an incredible solution for you. Luxcape Villas in Siolim Goa rank among the best villas that provide you with a private vacation experience. Breathe in a lush surrounding that rejuvenates the body and soul like no other.
