7 Wonderful Things to Do in North Goa You Should Not Miss

Would you like to experience the wilder side of Goa? If yes, North Goa is the place to which you should head. While South Goa might offer you a calming experience, North Goa’s wildness will have your heart. There are many exciting things to do in North Goa to make your trip hearty. 

The south side is more focused on relaxation. To have the best of Goa, you should visit both, if possible. You can check out this inclusive list of things to do in Goa to explore both regions.

So, let’s get you started on firstly figuring out a list of all the top things to do in North Goa. But first, here is a little information about the Northern part you could use to plan your trip.  

What is Special About North Goa?

North Goa is the lesser humid half of Goa. It is one of two districts in Goa. It’s the more adventurous half and offers lots of activities and great nightlife. 

It has gorgeous architectural sights, thrilling party joints, great eateries and shacks, grand casinos, bustling markets, and stunning beaches. 

What Are Some of the Best Things to Do in North Goa?

North Goa is bound to keep you entertained with all that it has. To experience the best, here are a few things to do in North Goa for a perfect holiday experience.

Visit the Chapora Fort For a Movie Magic

Chapora Fort is none other than the ‘Dil Chahta hai’ fort. It is a sight to behold and a must-visit for movie fans. It closes at 5. To reach here, you have to pass through the town of Mapusa. You could either take the local bus or hire a cab. Having Chapora Fort on your list of things to do in the North Goa will allow you to witness nostalgia and magnificent scenery while standing on a hilltop. 

• Address: Chapora Fort Trail, Vagator, Goa
• Official website: Click here
• Fun things to do: Explore the fort
• Best time to visit: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
• Entrance fee: Nil
• Where to stay: Grande Alpine Hotel

Head to Candolim Beach to Experience the Best Goa Has to Offer

Calling Candolim Beach only an enchanting sight wouldn’t be justice to this beautiful location. If we were to jot down the beauty of this beach, we would fall short of words. 

The beach extends from Aguada Fort (another gorgeous location you could visit!) to Chapora Beach. It is best to visit this beach from November to April. The beach is famous for hosting India’s largest EDM festival, the Sunburn Festival. You could sunbathe and enjoy the gorgeous views this beach has to offer. 

Sitting by this beach is one of the most relaxing things to do in North Goa. 

It is one of the cleanest beaches in Goa and is perfect for a stroll during the day or night. You can also enjoy the various water sports the beach offers. How about you go for a swim or even enjoy the incredible nightlife?

• Address: Candolim, North Goa 
• Official website: Click here
• Fun things to do: Enjoy water sports (like diving, fishing, and snorkeling), enjoy the nightlife
• Best time to visit: 8:30 am to 8:00 pm
• Entrance Fee: Nil (parking fee may apply) 
• Where to stay: Lemon Tree Amarante Beach Resort, Santana Beach Resort, Sonesta Inns Resort 

Go to the Church of Mae De Deus to Feast Your Eyes 

This church is an architectural sight to behold with its Neo-gothic architecture. It will stun you with its immaculate white walls, grand spires & gilded interior decor. The peaceful atmosphere that it has will help relax you and take your mind off of your worries. 

It houses the marvelous statue of Mae de Deus (Mother of God) in golden color. Once you look at the marvelous architecture, you will thank yourself for having this site up for all the things to do in North Goa.

• Address: Chogm Rd, Muddavaddi, Saligao, Goa 
• Official website: Click here
• Fun things to do: Visit the church, enjoy the serenity
• Best time to visit: 9:00 am to 12:30pm, 3-5pm (Mondays to Saturdays) 10:00 – 12:00pm, 4:30 – 6pm (On Sundays)
• Entrance Fee: Nil (parking fee may apply) 
• Where to stay: Sal’otel

Visit the Mangeshi Temple To Enjoy Peaceful Things to Do in North Goa

Mangeshi Temple is a sight to behold for all seekers of spiritual peace. It is one of the largest and most well-known temples in Goa. Its mesmerizing Goan architecture style will make you fall in love. The temple dedicates to Lord Mangesh (an incarnation of Lord Shiva). Its seven-story octagonal lamp tower is breathtaking. 

Though the structure is 400 years old, it continues to stun even today. It is a great idea to visit this sacred place and one of the best things to do in Goa.

• Address: Dinanath Mangeshkar Rd, Mangeshi Village, Mardol, Goa
• Official website: Click here
• Fun things to do: Visit the temple
• Best time to visit: 6:30 am to 09:30 pm (every day)
• Entrance Fee: Nil 
• Where to stay: Hotel Menino

Take a Trip to the Arpora Night Market To Enjoy Fun Things to do in North Goa

It’s also called the Saturday night market. Arpora Night Market is a feast for the eyes of a shopper but maybe not so much for your bank account. 

The market consists of local and international artisans and is worth visiting. You could buy souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones while experiencing the majestic, exotic culture around you. 

The market has lovely stalls but also live shows and music events. (Though shopping here is one of the best things to do in Goa, it is currently on a hiatus due to Covid-19.)

• Address: H. No. 392 Casa Babu, Aguada – Siolim Rd, near Chauranghinath Temple, Arpora, Goa
• Fun things to do: Shop, enjoy the market vibe
• Best time to visit: starts at 4 pm
• Entrance Fee: Nil 
• Where to stay: Abalone Resort

Visit Deltin Royale to Enjoy One of the Coolest Things to Do in North Goa

Are you in for some gambling? If yes, Deltin Royale is one of the best casinos in Goa. It has managed to capture the extravagant essence of Las Vegas but in Goa! 

The casino is spread across 40,000 sq. ft and can be considered a gamers heaven. This casino offers an elegant whiskey lounge, live entertainment, and a gourmet restaurant. 

Entertainment is a guarantee here! It is a must-visit and one of the most fun things to do in North Goa apart from visiting the beaches and historical sights. 

• Address: Fisheries Jetty Fisheries Building, Dayanand Bandodkar Marg, Panaji, Goa
• Official website: Click here
• Fun things to do: Enjoy the vibes of casino
• Best time to visit: Open 24 hours
• Entrance fee: ₹3000 to ₹8000(21 & above) and ₹1,500 for ages 12 to 20
• Where to stay: Hotel Zillion Inn

Take a stroll on Vagator Beach For a Calming and Soothing Experience

The beach has a captivating view with red cliffs that will make you hold your breath. The beach has two parts- Little Vagator (or Ozran Beach) and Big Vagator( or Tambduki Beach). 

Little Vagator has two phenomenal water springs that you are sure to enjoy. The beach has a few open-air clubs nearby that you can visit to enjoy the nightlife. Little Vagator also has some retro dining options nearby. The sunset from the beach is mesmerizing. It also has a Shiva’s head carved out of rock! 

The Big Vagator is great for trekking and has gorgeous views. This beach has some of the most amazing things to do in Goa. 

• Address: North of Bardez taluk, Goa
• Fun things to do: Enjoy water sports (like diving, parasailing, jet skiing, and dolphin tours), sunbathe, shop, and enjoy the fantastic nightlife
• Best time to visit: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Entrance Fee: Nil (parking fee may apply)
• Where to stay: Cochichos Resort, Casa Vagator, Amour Resort, Alcove Resort

Summary

We wouldn’t be lying if we said that North Goa is enchanting. With its captivating nightlife, stunning beaches, and divine architectural feats, you will be entertained and have a wonderful trip full of adventure. 

Gorgeous views, fun, and relaxation are a few things that await you in North Goa. Your vacation will be one to remember and cherish with all these things to do in North Goa.

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