5. Basilica de Bom Jesus
While many tourists visit Goa for the beaches, countless others consider the trip to be a pilgrimage to important religious sites, like the Basilica de Bom Jesus.
This Old Goa attraction dates back to the late 16th century and contains the remains of the St. Francis Xavier. The «Apostle of the Indies» co-founded the Society of Jesus religious order with friend St. Ignatius Loyola and spearheaded an extensive mission in India. The basilica has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
The modest yet imposing structure is a mix of Doric, Corinthian, and Baroque style with intricate carvings. Interestingly, the building was stripped of its lime plaster in the mid-20th century, making it the only church in Goa without plaster. The Basilica de Bom Jesus has since become worn by monsoons.
You can tour the church on your own, or hire one of the independent guides near the entrance for a small fee. Inside, you can see huge ornamental screens, along with the body of the resident saint in a casket that was once covered in precious stones. It’s a compelling place that will transport you back in time.
Every year, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier draws big crowds to this church in late November and early December. It kicks off with a nine-day novena and open-air masses before concluding with the major holiday on Dec. 3.
6. Dudhsagar Falls
Aquatic adventures go beyond the beach in Goa. The state is also home to Dudhsagar Falls, a spectacular four-tiered waterfall that towers some 310 meters above the earth. It’s one of India’s tallest waterfalls and a perpetually popular attraction for day trips around Goa and Karnataka.
To reach the falls, you’ll need to make your way to the village of Colem by taxi or train. Depending on which train route you take, you may get a glimpse of Dudhsagar Falls along the way. Then, you’ll hop aboard a shared jeep through the jungle, passing Devil’s Canyon along the way. Around 45 minutes later, you’ll scurry over some boulders to finally reach the falls.
The best time to visit Dudhsagar Falls is right after the monsoon, when the water is gushing. Tourists who wish to take a dip can rent a life jacket from vendors at the attraction.
