Discover North Goa with our top pick

activities and attractions

We’re often asked about the best things to do and places to visit in North Goa. Our guests usually want to step out for the day to explore the many and varied activities that are just beyond our doorstep here in Mandrem.  In this article, we highlight our favourite things to do in North Goa and select our top places to visit close to our jungle resort and within an hours drive of Mandrem. All our recommendations for things to do and places to visit at North Goa lie between Panjim and the Maharashtra border beyond Keri beach.  We’ll start our journey from the far north of the state and sweep down the coast towards Panjim.  Let’s jump in…

Places to visit in North Goa

Enjoy lunch at a Portuguese fort and take a ferry boat across the border

Our first recommendation for places to visit at North Goa is at the far reaches of India’s smallest state. This unexplored place to visit is a short ferry ride across the Terekhol River, the natural border between Goa and Maharashtra.  Fort Tiracol is a beautiful five-star hotel nestled on the Goan peninsula across the land border. The quirky fact about this offbeat thing to do in North Goa is that it’s as far north as it’s possible to go and is technically in Maharashtra.  Enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed, yet sophisticated setting. The restaurant serves up a pan European menu with an unmistakable Goan influence.  Opening hours: 11:30 am – 4:30 pm for lunch 7 pm – 11:30 pm for dinner Our favourite meal: Surf and Turf Address: Pernem, Taluka, Tiracol, 403524, India

Take a stroll along the beach at Keri

After a delicious meal at the Fort, why not take a walk along the beach at Keri? You’ll have spent the whole time admiring the stunning beach as it sweeps out from the mouth of the Terekhol River along the headland to form the Goan coastline.  This view is one that deserves to be walked! One of the best places to visit in Goa for youngsters since its easy to access and quiet with lots of nature to explore.  Step off the ferry at Keri, kick off your flip flops and feel the sand between your toes as you walk along one of the best kept secret beaches of North Goa. This stretch of sand often takes a serious beating during monsoon so the coast is always changing here.  The tidal current is strong too. The seafloor drops away in a steep wedge so you’ll be in deep water within a few steps. It’s a great spot to take the plunge and refresh your body in the salty waters of the Arabian Sea.  Watch out for: Steep drop as you enter the water Address: Unnamed Rd, Querim, Goa 403524

Experience the tribal vibe at the Harmal Drum Circle

Few activities in North Goa are better known than the world famous Harmal Drum Circle. More commonly referred to as Arambol Drum Circle for its beachside location, this regular gathering is a spectacle not to be missed.  Join freaks and dudes at sunset any night of the week for an immersive percussive experience that you’ll remember forever. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take along your drum and join in the fun? Look out for: the small hippie market on the beach Address: Close to Love Temple, Harmal beach, Arambol, Goa 403519

Indulge in some retail therapy at the night markets

There are a handful of excellent night markets in North Goa. Our favourite is The Goa Collective Bazaar. There’s a lot on offer at this popular Friday night out. Shop til you drop in the amazing stalls or eat your heart out at the extensive selection of tasty food trucks. Easily, one of the top places to visit in North Goa.  We love that there’s entertainment til late so you can really make a night of it. This is one of our favourite places to visit in North Goa at night. Plan to wear comfy sandals and carry cash to make the most of this enjoyable and fun night on the tiles.  Look out for: tribal trinkets and local souvenirs Address: Hilltop, Vagator, Goa 403509

Visit one of the many churches and temples

Among the most famous Christian Churches in North Goa is the Basilica of Bom Jesus. It’s popular because it’s the most iconic but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t see it. Certainly, if mainstream hangouts and standard tourist attractions float your boat, then by all means, head on over.  But if you’re looking for things to do in Goa other than beaches, and this list is all about those hidden gems and secret spots, then you could visit the Mae De Deus Church in Saligao. Arguably, one of North Goa’s most impressive Gothic buildings. One of the best places to visit in North Goa with family. Look out for: nighttime illumination for the full Gothic experience Address: Chogm Rd, Muddavaddi, Saligao, Goa 403511

What not to do in Goa

Don’t drink and drive, don’t spend the whole time in front of your laptop at the same restaurant and definitely don’t miss the local culture and charm of pottering around the back roads on bicycles, discovering unseen temples, quirky cafes and pop up food trucks.  There’s tons of unexplored and offbeat places for you to discover but you’ll have to find them for yourself. That’s all part of the fun of an adventurous holiday in North Goa.