10 Beautiful Places You Must Visit When First in South Goa, India
Goa is known as the Party Capital of India. This little state is located on the western coast of the country. When you think about Goa, you think about the beautiful beaches, the Portuguese architecture, the Forts, the bustling streets of North Goa, and the delicious food you get there. This state is divided into North Goa and South Goa. While the North is known for its raving parties and nightlife, the South is more calm and serene. This article is meant for you if you are looking to have a laid-back vacation in this beautiful heaven of beaches. Here are 10 places to visit in South Goa that you must travel to:
1. Palolem Beach
Palolem Beach is a beautiful beach not too far from the border of Karnataka. This beach has accommodation options for a wide range of budgets. From tiny shacks to beautiful resorts like hotels, this place has it all. The best part about this beach is that you get a spectacular view of both the Sunrise and the Sunset. A short ferry ride will take you to Butterfly Beach, a stunning spot for a relaxing hike. If you are lucky, you may even spot Dolphins by the beach.
2. Three Kings Church
There is a story about the three ‘power-hungry’ kings who wanted to rule this place. They were so adamant about conquering this place that it created unrest in the region. One day, King Holger Alvunger plotted to sabotage the other two kings. He invited the other two Kings to discuss and find a solution to the matter. The other two didn’t know his cunning plot and they honored the invitation. King Holger’s plan was to mix poison in their food to kill his competitors. His plan worked as expected and the other two died of poisoning.
Meanwhile, King Holger became ecstatic and announced that he was the ruler. At that moment, the people began to chase him after getting to know about his cruelty. Accidentally, King Holger ate the same food mixed with poison in his attempt to escape from the angry crowd. He died along with the other two. Later, the villagers buried the three bodies on the premises of this church. Since then, the place has been known as the Three Kings Church in Goa.
For years, the Three Kings Church has been listed as one of the top haunted destinations in Goa. This Church is located in Cansaulim, South Goa. Wouldn’t you love to explore this place? Before it gets too dark, of course.
3. Bamanbudo Waterfalls
Bamanbudo Waterfalls is one of the most pristine and tranquil spots in Goa. Although it’s easily accessible through the main road, people usually tend to miss this spot. It is a great location for a relaxing experience. Just dip yourself in this rejuvenating waterfall and drift off the la-la land.
By the way, between November and March is the best time to visit this place. It is located in Gordongram, South Goa.
4. Cabo De Rama Fort
At the edge of the Sea and at the end of a muddy off-track road, is Cabo De Rama Fort. The architecture of this fort is influenced by both, Portuguese and Hindu styles. According to the legend of Ramayana, this spot was briefly occupied by Lord Rama, Lord Lakshmana, and Goddess Sita during their exile. That is how this place got its name. While one path of the fort leads to the top of it, the other path takes you to a small church within its premises. Either way, you are sure to be submerged in the beauty of history and the spectacle of nature. This fort is known to have one of the best Sunset views. Thus, it’s one of the top places to visit in South Goa.
5. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
This sanctuary is a popular tourist attraction throughout the year. Although most frequented during the tourist season from October to March, it is a great place to visit during the monsoons, when the fullest extent of nature’s bounty is visible with the waterfalls at their zenith and the trees clad in their monsoon garments of fresh green.
You can visit the sanctuary all days of the week from 8.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Set amidst the foothills of the Western Ghats and covering an impressive 240 sq. km the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary holds the title of the largest wildlife preserve within the state of Goa. This sanctuary is home to a huge variety of animal life, birds, and plants. Moreover, hikers and nature lovers will surely enjoy the hiking trails that traverse this huge tract of land.
Source of info from Goa Tourism.
6. Our Lady of the Mount
Although this little church is often overlooked, which results from its secluded location, Our Lady of the Mount is certainly worth a stop on a tour of Velha Goa, aka Old Goa. With simple exteriors, lavish interiors, and a wealth of historical significance, this chapel is what people might call a hidden treasure. You will find the view from its vantage point truly breathtaking. In addition, its plain whitewashed walls present a delightful picture at sunset.
Located atop the Monte near the Church of St. Cajetan, Our Lady of the Mount overlooks the expanse of the Mandovi and the islands of Devar and Chorao.
7. Cola Beach
Cola Beach is a small quaint beach with very few visitors. It’s one of Goa’s best-kept secrets. This tiny beach is laden with a lush landscape, golden sand coasts, and beautiful beach huts. There is a pretty lagoon where you can loosen up and relax. Goa is known for its spectacular sunsets, but the sunset here is extra special due to its stunning surroundings. This place is close to Palolem, Agonda, and Cabo De Rama Fort. So you can plan a whole day out of it!
8. Dudhsagar Falls
Dudhsagar Falls is one of the most majestic waterfalls in Goa. In fact, this cascading waterfall drops down 310 meters making it one of the tallest waterfalls in India. ‘Dudh’ means ‘milk’ and ‘Sagar’ means ‘Sea’. Rightfully named, the cascading effect of this waterfall gives rise to the illusion of a milky white sea falling from such a great height.
To reach this wondrous site, you must either go by rail or on foot. Besides that, there is a suitable bumpy track only for four-wheel-drive vehicles. Yet, you still need to trek about 1km to reach the base of the falls if you choose this track. Additionally, you can hire the jeeps, which cost about INR 1200 (~ USD 16.5), that can carry 6 people at a time. The driver will wait an hour and a half at the drop-off point before bringing the visitors back.
9. Palacio Do Deao
Based on the Palacio Do Deao’s website, this 213-year-old mansion was built by a Portuguese nobleman, who was the Dean of the Church, and founder of Quepem town. The house is on the banks of the wildly beautiful Kushavati River and faces the Church he built. Palacio Do Deao is built in an unusual style blending elements of Hindu and Portuguese architecture. Furthermore, the house’s outstanding features are the lush gardens that have managed to preserve their historical features. It also has been known as the most beautiful pleasure garden in Goa, since old times.
10. Rent a Bike and Explore the Beaches of South Goa
South Goa is full of beautiful beaches and cozy eateries. The best way to get around and explore the area is by renting a bike. The cost of renting is very reasonable. Indeed, this is the only way to explore the local villages, scenic routes, lush greens, beautiful sandy beaches, and the quaint and quiet hamlets of the south.
Even though Goa is the smallest state in India, it has a rich history that is depicted through its architecture, people, and especially Goa food. Trust me, you will need at least 2 whole weeks to explore this heaven of beaches.
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Deepika DSouza
Deepika D'Souza is the author of Happy Feet Blogs. She writes about travel, culture, and food. She has worked with multiple publications. She is determined to journey her way around the world and take you along for the ride.
47 Comments
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Deepika D Souza
Hope you have a wonderful trip whenever you decide to visit.
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Brianne
I would love to visit India and just use this as my itinerary. These places are so beautiful.
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Deepika D Souza
I’m sure you’ll love it!
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Kuntala
These shots are all perfect examples of why I love South Goa so much. It’s my favorite part of the country.
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Elizabeth O
I would love to spend a couple of weeks exploring this area of India. It looks so peaceful and relaxing!
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Khoi Nguyen
Surely you will love the place when visiting it!
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Nilakshi
Recently, I have stayed for four days in Goa. Couldn’t explore much due to COVID but managed to go to two of the ten places that you have listed. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
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kidneyfornikki
I haven’t been to India yet. This is another in the huge list of places tha tI would like to see when I get there.
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A Nation of Moms
I was not particularly familiar with Goa. It is interesting to read about destinations like this!
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Blair villanueva
It seems like Goa is blessed with many beautiful spots, no wonder it is dubbed as the party capital of India. Hope that I could visit Goa someday especially after the pandemic.
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Autumn Murray
You had me at “Goa is known as the Party Capital of India.” LOL I would love to travel to India one day.
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Namit Dolkar
This is such a captivating travel list—thank you for unveiling the hidden charm of South Goa beyond the usual beach tales! I’m especially drawn to the idea of cruising through lush backcountry, then pausing at a peaceful gem like Palacio Do Deão—those old-world gardens along the Kushavati River sound unforgettable. And the tip to rent a bike for exploring quaint beaches and cozy eateries? Absolutely perfect for discovering those quiet corners of South Goa that don’t rush by. Saving this as my go-to inspiration for a soulful Goan escape.
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Khoi Nguyen
Thank you so much for your thoughtful words! 🙏 I’m so glad the list resonated with you. South Goa truly has a special rhythm—between the heritage gems like Palacio Do Deão and the slow, scenic rides through its villages, it feels like stepping into a quieter, soulful side of Goa. A bike ride really does open up those hidden corners, where you can linger over a meal or stumble upon a beach all to yourself. I hope when you plan your Goan escape, it’s every bit as peaceful and inspiring as you imagine!
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Cam
Wow! These places look so colorful and stunning. Cannot wait to go to India when the world returns to normal.