The Goa tourism industry is somewhat of a benchmark for all other tourism departments of the country. In fact, the Department of Tourism in Goa has been decorated with a long string of awards over the years. For instance, as late as in 2013, Goa bagged the 'Best Value Destination' award conferred by The Lonely Planet Magazine India Travel Awards at an award ceremony held in Mumbai. After all, Goa has some of the best of natures bounty. The surreal beaches, jungles, waterfalls, monuments, and festive ambiance need no introduction. Easy to see, what makes Goa such a sizzling destination for domestic as well as global tourists. This Goa tourism guide brings you some important pointers that will come in handy during a trip to Goa.

Goa Tourism Attractions

Undoubtedly, beaches give the biggest boost to Goa tourism. Almost all the beaches have a unique character. Some are full of huge merry crowds, some are very laidback and peaceful, some offer heart thudding water spots, while some have great scope of shopping. Broadly speaking, if you are looking for high voltage action, the North Goa beaches such as Baga-Calangute, Anjuna, and Miramar. On the other hand, the beaches in South Goa are comparatively quieter. Besides beaches, there are wildlife sanctuaries such as Mollem National Park and Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Furthermore, there are spectacular old cathedrals and churches such as Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and Church of St Anne. Also, not to be missed is the Dudhsagar Waterfalls and the different fabulous art galleries and museums. Goa tourism sure does offer lots of choice to visitors.

Religious aspect of Goa Tourism

Yes, Goa tourism sure has a pious holy side. It is perhaps hard to thinks so as most people identify Goa with crazy parties, endless boozing, and oodles of permissiveness due to its colonial roots. However, these colonial roots have also given Goa a rich Christian heritage, which is evident from the numerous holy cathedrals and churches dotting the destination. For instance, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is home to the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier and has also been designated the status of a World Heritage Monument. Similarly, the Se Cathedral of Goa is easily one of the biggest of such cathedrals in entire Asia. Besides churches and cathedrals, Goa also has highly revered Hindu temples such as Sri Mangueshi Temple and Shri Mahalakshmi Temple. These places ensure a firm place for religious Goa tourism.

Seasons of Goa Tourism

Statistics show that Goa Tourism is at its peak during the winter season lasting from mid December to February. During this period, the average nighttime temperature is around 21 C, while the average temperature during days is about 28 C. In the inland areas, it is slightly cooler owing to the effect of altitudinal gradation. Overall, Goa, with its tropical monsoon climate and location in the tropical zone with proximity to the Arabian Sea, has a tropical monsoon climate. This means that the climate stays hot and humid for the larger part of the year. The hottest month is May, when temperatures often shoot beyond 35 C and humidity levels also head north. Monsoons hit Goa by June and cool down things. The monsoon is largely an off season time in Goa. However, visitors can look forward to lots of freshness and greenery. Furthermore, many of the airlines and hotels come up with attractive offseason discounts. In fact, in recent times, there have been increased efforts to promote monsoon Goa tourism.