Goa
Top Tips
Beaches
The 100km coastline offers some of the finest beaches in India;
Arambol in the north (stay in romantic tents or
The Captain's House), and Palolem and Polem in the far
south are some of the best and least spoilt.
Churches and temples
For a sense of Portuguese Goa head to the old towns of Panjim
(Panaji) and Old Goa, with their imposing white-washed churches and
mansions. For a taste of Hindu culture, check out the temples of
Ponda.
Shopping
Anjuna's weekly flea market is a Goan institution - stay as close
as possible in a funky cave villa. Mapusa hosts Goa's
best local market. Chic boutiques selling east-meets-west designer
clothes and homewares are mainly in the north of Goa.
Yoga
Goa is one of the favoured destinations for yogis. Stay in
Rajasthani tented lodges at an eco-friendly
retreat.
Wildlife
Easily accessible wildlife sanctuaries, including Bhagwan Mahavir
in the foothills of the western Ghats, are beautiful and peaceful
(stay on a working farm nearby) but don't expect to spot
the wild boar, sambar, deer or leopards sheltered within. Boat
trips on the coast abound to show you dolphins.
Great excursion
Take a 3-day trip to the awesome and magical ancient Hindu temples
of Hampi, one of India's highlights.