Goa is not just about miles of sandy beaches and non-stop partying, things it is best known for. Historical Goa with old forts, as well as fascinating churches and temples make Goa an all-encompassing destination. The state is full of not-to-be-missed attractions and sights, such as:

Churches:Goa is renowned the world over for its exquisite architecture and well ornate interiors. Boasting of a colonial past, the state boasts of several oldest and largest churches of the region. Some of the most noteworthy churches in Goa include Se Cathedral, Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assisi, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of St. Cajetan, Church of St. Augustine and Church and Convent of St. Monica.

Anjuna Beach Flea Market:The beautiful Anjuna Beach, lined with palm trees, hosts the famous flea market every Wednesday. From ethnic clothes and an array of junk items to dried fish and local souvenirs, the market sells interesting stuff that draws hordes of shoppers.

Archaeological Museum:Located 9 km off Panaji, the Archaeological Museum is home to the administrative buildings, fortress walls, monasteries and churches. The museum is a great treasure house that depicts the rich history of Goa.

Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary:Located on the eastern border of the state, the Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 240 square kilometer and is the largest wildlife sanctuary in Goa. Besides being home to a large variety of wildlife, the sanctuary also houses the Devil`s Canyon, Dudhsagar Waterfall and the Tambdi Surla Temple.

A vacationer`s paradise, Goa plays host to a slew of travelers from all around India and the world. From luxurious five star hotels and sea-side resorts to affordable three-star hotels and guest houses, lodging options in the city provide a glimpse of the warm Indian hospitality. Goa is a hot tourist destination that remains busy all through the year hence making hotel reservations in advance is a necessity.

Luxury Hotels:From five star super deluxe hotels to exquisite and luxurious seaside resorts, expensive lodging options in Goa re-defines luxury. Lavish and beautiful world-class facilities, these luxury hotels are great accommodation options for the splurging travelers. Some of the best lodging options in this category include Park Hyatt, Taj Exotica, the Leela, Intercontinental the Lalit Hotel, the Zuri White Sands Hotel, Goa Mariott Hotel, Taj Fort Aguada Beach Hotel, Taj Holiday Village, Cidade De Goa, Ramada Caravela Beach Hotel, Club Mahindra Hotel and Holiday Inn Hotel.

Budget Hotels:Budget hotels in Goa are excellent accommodation options for travelers looking for cheap and comfortable places to stay in. Neat and clean lodging facilities at best prices are offered by several budget hotels in the city, such as Valentines Beach Retreat, Villa Bomfim Hotel, Hotel Bevvan, Saffron Hotel, Villa Theresa Hotel, Avantika Resort, Castle House Resort, Don Hill Resort, Sun Park Resort, Sea Shell Inn Resort, Riverside Resort, Majestic Inn, Palm Resort and Village Royale Resort.

All foreign nationals coming to Goa, India require a valid passport.
India does not have a `visa on arrival` option. However, the option has been left open for residents of five countries only on an experimental basis for a period of one year. These countries include Singapore, Finland, Japan, New Zealand and Luxembourg. All other nationals must acquire a valid Indian visa before their travel to the country, except nationals of Bhutan and Nepal who do not require a visa to enter India. Residents of Maldives also do not require a visa for stay up to 90 days.

Owing to a moderate temperature, Goa can be visited any time of the year. October to March is the peak tourist season and the best time to visit Goa. The temperature during this time remains very pleasant and ideal for outdoor adventures. Summer time is best avoided as temperature during this time can go up to 45 degree Celsius.

Owing to its location near the Arabian Sea, Goa remains hot and humid all through the year. With average day temperatures of over 35 degree Celsius, May is the hottest month of the year. Coupled with high levels of humidity, heat can become quite unbearable during the afternoon time. Much respite is offered by the advent of rains in June. Much of rainfall in the city falls during the monsoon season which begin sin June and ends in September. Mid-December to February is the short winter time when the average temperature falls in the range of 21 and 28 degree Celsius.

Currency:Indian National Rupee is the official currency of India. Goa has many banks and ATMs that can be easily found all around the city. Foreign currency can be exchanged at airports, all major banks and hotels. Credit cards and travelers checks are widely accepted throughout Goa.

Language:Konkani and Marathi are the languages spoken by a majority of Goa residents. Portuguese was widely spoken till the Portuguese regime in 1961. English and Hindi are also widely spoken and understood in the city.