Places to Visit in South Goa
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South Goa depicts a fusion of almost everything Goa is known for. It boasts a blend of exotic and sandy beaches, temples, churches, history, Portuguese culture, wildlife of the Western Ghats, and scrumptious seafood. There are several places to visit in South Goa, where you will be spoiled for choices. Moreover, the Western Ghat traverses through South Goa to Maharashtra and Karnataka, and hence, there’s no dearth to admire the verdant landscapes and splendid wildlife. South Goa is laid-back and the unhurried pace of life, exotic beaches, and heritage villages exude serenity. Here you can experience various shades of Goan vacation. So, let’s just find out the top places, where you can make the most of your South Goa escape.
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Palolem Beach
Palolem Beach in Canacona needs no introduction. It is probably one of the most stunning beaches in Goa, which boasts a crescent-shaped shore, golden sands, gentle white waves, and a plethora of shacks, restaurants, bars, vendors, and hawkers. This beautiful beach exudes a calm and peaceful vibe and is popular among visitors for dolphin spotting opportunities. If you are visiting Palolem with your family and kids, try to stay on the northern side, where the tides are a little gentler. However, for adventure-seekers, the southern part of the beach offers thrilling water activities.
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Agonda Beach
If you are looking for a secluded and less chaotic beach in Goa, then consider this lesser-known beach. Tourists rarely visit this beach. But despite that, Agonda Beach is prepped with cozy little shacks and cottages. Moreover, it is one of the four beaches in Goa, which is marked as a turtle nesting site. Isn’t this enough reason to make a visit to this beautiful place? However, during the nesting season, the authority takes strict measures to keep the tourists at bay, so that these little animals can safely hatch their eggs.
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Shri Shantadurga Temple
This 450-year-old ancient Hindu temple is a private temple complex belonging to Gaud Saraswat Brahman Samaj. The structure of the temple flaunts an Indo-Portuguese architectural style and has Roman arched windows, which is a rare sight in temples in Goa. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga as a mediator between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The original temple at Quellosim was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1566, after which the idol of the deity was shifted to its present location.
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Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple
This 12th-century temple is probably the oldest religious site in Goa, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This ASI-protected monument of national importance in Goa boasts Kadamba-style architecture. The temple is enclosed by lush vegetation and offers a tranquil atmosphere. Devotees come to this sacred place to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The best time to visit the temple is during Maha Shivratri when the temple celebrates this grand religious festival with much pomp and gaiety.
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Cabo de Rama Fort
Sun Kissed Beaches, Redwood Forests, Sparkling Cities, and Adventurous People make California Your Next Destination. Being one of the modest forts in Goa, Cabo de Rama fort boasts a rich history. However, today most parts of the fort are in ruins. One of the interesting legends associated with the fort is that Lord Rama and Devi Sita spend some time at this site during their exile from Ayodhya. And hence, it got its name in honor of Lord Rama.
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Mollem National Park
Mollem National Park in the core area of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a large number of species including birds, reptiles, wild boar, butterflies, etc. Visitors can easily spot Bonnet Macaque, barking deer, leopards, and tigers, roaming around the jungle. Additionally, it has more than 120 species of birds, which makes it a favorite place for bird watchers. It is one of the best places to visit in South Goa. Take a jungle safari to admire these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
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Conclusion
There is plenty to explore in South Goa, and it is impossible to cover everything in one trip. To ensure all significant and important places to visit in Goa are on your list, go through this blog. Book a flight and experience the best coastal vacation in India.