Goa Tourism
Goa Tourism covers two government bodies: the Department of Tourism of the Government of Goa, and the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). GTDC was set up on 30 March 1982 to run the state's tourist hotels, vehicles, boats and tours. This guide explains what GTDC offers, the main towns and sights, and how to plan a short Goa holiday.
What GTDC offers
- Residencies: government-run hotels in popular areas such as Panaji, Calangute, Colva and Old Goa.
- Sightseeing tours: day tours of North Goa and South Goa by coach.
- River cruises: evening cruises on the Mandovi river with music and dance.
- Tourist information: counters at Panaji and major arrival points.
GTDC is a government company run by a board appointed by the state, with a Managing Director as its executive head.
Main towns in Goa
- Panaji (Panjim): the capital, with Fontainhas Latin Quarter and the Mandovi riverfront.
- Margao (Madgaon): the main town of South Goa and a major railway station.
- Mormugao and Vasco da Gama: the port area near Dabolim airport.
- Mapusa: known for its Friday market in North Goa.
- Ponda: the temple belt with Mangueshi and Shantadurga temples, plus spice farms.
- Curchorem and Sancoale: smaller towns in the south and central areas.
Top sights
Beaches
- North Goa: Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Vagator and Morjim; busier with shacks and nightlife.
- South Goa: Colva, Benaulim, Palolem and Agonda; quieter and cleaner.
Churches and heritage
- Old Goa: the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Forts: Aguada, Chapora and Cabo de Rama.
Nature
- Dudhsagar Falls: a tall waterfall on the Karnataka border, best after the monsoon.
- Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary and spice plantations: good half-day trips.
Our guide to the best places to visit in Goa covers these in more detail.
Best time to visit
November to February is the peak season, with dry, pleasant weather. Christmas and New Year are the busiest and most expensive weeks. The monsoon (June to September) is green and cheaper, but the sea is rough and many shacks close.
How to reach Goa
Goa has two airports: Dabolim in the south and Manohar International Airport at Mopa in the north. Madgaon, Thivim and Vasco are the main railway stations. Overnight buses run from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Pune.
Tips for visitors
- Rent a scooter or hire a cab for the day; public buses are slow for beach hopping.
- Wear a helmet and carry your licence; checks are common.
- Swim only at beaches with lifeguards and follow the flag signals.
- Book stays early for Christmas and New Year.
Local food to try includes fish curry rice, prawn balchao, xacuti and bebinca, a layered Goan sweet.
Goa Tourism contact details
- Office: Goa Tourism Development Corporation, Paryatan Bhavan, 3rd Floor, Patto, Panaji, Goa 403001
- Phone: 0832-2437132, 0832-2437728, 0832-2438515
- Website: goa-tourism.com
Plan your Goa trip
GoldBox Holidays offers Goa tour packages with stay and sightseeing. If you are already in Goa, the North Goa beaches tour and the South and Central Goa tour each cover the main sights in a day.
Frequently asked questions
What is GTDC?
GTDC is the Goa Tourism Development Corporation, a state government company formed in 1982 to run hotels, tours and cruises for visitors.
Which is better, North Goa or South Goa?
North Goa suits young groups who want nightlife and water sports. South Goa suits families and couples who want quiet beaches.
How many days are enough for Goa?
Three to four days cover North Goa, South Goa and Old Goa at a relaxed pace.
Is Goa worth visiting in the monsoon?
Yes, for green scenery, waterfalls and lower hotel rates. Swimming in the sea is not safe during this season.
