Goa holidays

Beach lovers: Near-endless beaches are a highlight of this region. Why not relax with the locals at Baga Beach? Or party until the early hours at Calangute Beach? 

Happy campers: Camp out on Cola Beach Resort’s unspoilt beach; you’ll find this secluded hideaway on the country’s southern tip. 

Foodies: Enjoy the unique Indo-Portuguese cuisine. Ambot tik (a sour and spicy fish curry) is an absolute must try. 

Language: The main languages are Konkani, English, Marathi and Hindi.

Currency: The currency used in India is the India Rupee (INR), which you’re only permitted to purchase on arrival in India.

Local time: Goa is 5.5 hours ahead of GMT/UK time.

Fly to: Dabolim Airport. The transfer time is around 1 hour. 

Flight time from the UK: The flight time to Goa is 9.5 hours.

Tourist information: Ahead of your holiday here, check out more tourist information here.

Visa / health: Click here for visa and health recommendations and advice for your holiday

Holiday destinations related to Goa:

• Arpora
• Candolim
• Dona Paula

By bike or scooter: Zip around on a bike or scooter, just like the locals do. Bikes are available to hire nearly everywhere you look. 

By car or jeep: The perfect solution if you’re travelling in a group, or you want the freedom to see the region at your own pace. 

By taxi: They can be pricey here, but in places like Panaji (the state capital) you can get a fixed-rate service. Most drivers don’t use a meter, so agree a fare before you set off. 

Private driver: Thinking of spending a full day exploring Goa? Do it in style and book yourself a private driver. 

Religious festivals: The Christian and Hindu heritage here is reflected in its abundant festivals, and Panaji especially plays host to a fabulous array of religious and non-religious events. 

Goa Heritage Festival: An annual highlight in November, two days filled with food, music and festivities mark a celebration of the region’s rich and diverse history. 

Big feast: In December, Old Goa comes to life during the popular Feast of St Francis Xavier (the patron saint). It’s held at the Basilica of Born Jesus. 

Holi: Experience Shigmotsav, their take on colourful Hindu festival Holi in February/March, and don’t miss the vibrant Sabado Gordo (Fat Saturday) festival, held before Lent as part of the carnival celebrations.

Do I need a passport?
If you’re planning a holiday to Goa, you will need a passport. You must have a machine-readable passport to be granted entry to India, which must be valid for a minimum of 180 days after your arrival in the country. Your passport must also have two blank pages for your visa.

For more information on Goa passport requirements and details of the country’s entry rules, head to https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements. 

Do I need a visa?

British citizens will need a visa to visit Goa as a tourist. If you’re in any doubt as to whether or not you will need a visa, it’s best to check with the Indian High Commission.

For more Goa visa information as well as details of other entry requirements to India, head to the UK FCDO website.

Should I get travel health insurance?

When travelling abroad we always recommend you take out comprehensive travel and health insurance and this applies even more so if you’re visiting India. If you need emergency medical treatment after becoming ill or even being involved in an accident on holiday, your policy should cover you. It’s always best to check through your documents before you travel so that you know what is and what isn’t covered. You should also check that you’ll be insured for any activities you’re planning to take part in on your holiday.