bigtravelbuzzMargao is a city located in the southern part of Goa, India. It is a bustling commercial center with a mix of Indian and Portuguese influences. It is known for its vibrant markets, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks.
Here are some places to visit, things to do, and travel tips for Margao:
Places to Visit:
Colva Beach: It is a beautiful and serene beach located around 6 km from Margao. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Benaulim Beach: It is another beautiful beach located around 8 km from Margao. It is less crowded than Colva Beach and offers a peaceful environment.
Our Lady of Grace Church: It is a beautiful church located in the heart of Margao. It is known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Margao Municipal Garden: It is a well-maintained garden located in the center of Margao. It offers a peaceful environment and is a great place to relax and unwind.
Pandava Caves and Arvalem Waterfall: They are two popular tourist spots located around 50 km from Margao. The Pandava Caves are ancient rock-cut caves, and the Arvalem Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
Things to Do:
Explore the Markets: Margao is known for its vibrant markets, including the Municipal Market, Pajifond Market, and Gogol Market. These markets offer a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, clothing, and handicrafts.
Visit the Temples: Margao is home to several beautiful temples, including the Mahalaxmi Temple, the Shri Damodar Temple, and the Shri Chandranath Temple.
Try Goan Cuisine: Margao is known for its delicious Goan cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include fish curry and rice, vindaloo, and bebinca.
Enjoy Water Sports: Margao’s beaches offer a wide range of water sports, including parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
Attend a Music Festival: Margao hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including the Monte Music Festival and the Jazz Goa Festival.
How to Get Around:
Margao is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport, which is located around 25 km from Margao. Margao railway station is a major railway station, and several trains connect it to other parts of India. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses are available for getting around Margao.
Where to Eat:
Margao offers a wide range of dining options, including local Goan cuisine and international dishes. Some popular restaurants include Martin’s Corner, Longuinhos, and Pentagon.
Where to Stay:
Margao offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, budget hotels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include the Goa Marriott Resort and Spa, The Fern Residency, and Hotel Surya Palace.
Travel Tips:
Here are some travel tips for Margao:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Margao is between October and March when the weather is pleasant, and there is little rainfall.
Local transportation: Margao has a good network of local transportation, including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Buses are the cheapest mode of transportation, but they can be crowded during peak hours.
Safety: Margao is a relatively safe city, but it is always best to take necessary precautions when traveling alone or at night. Keep your valuables safe and be aware of your surroundings.
Dress code: Goa is a liberal state, but it is important to dress appropriately when visiting religious places or attending traditional events. Avoid wearing revealing clothes, and cover your shoulders and knees.
Currency: The currency used in Goa is the Indian Rupee. ATMs are widely available in Margao, and most shops and restaurants accept credit and debit cards.
Language: Konkani is the official language of Goa, but Hindi and English are widely spoken and understood.
Food and drink: Margao is famous for its seafood, so make sure to try some of the local delicacies. Be cautious when drinking tap water, and opt for bottled water instead.
Beaches: Margao is close to several beaches, including Colva, Benaulim, and Varca. These beaches can get crowded during peak season, so plan your visit accordingly.
Cultural festivals: Margao hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, Carnival, and Christmas. These festivals offer a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of Goa.
Respect local customs: Goans are friendly and hospitable people, but it is important to respect their customs and traditions. Ask for permission before taking photographs, and avoid littering or damaging local property.