Calangute, Goa
Keynotes on Calangute
Calangut, Goa
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Visit Duration: One to two days
Ideal for: Day or Weekend trips
Ideal Time to Visit: October to March is recommended – end of the year celebrations attracts tourists every year
Best Visited with Solo, Group, Couple, or Family
Accommodation: Budget and five-star hotels available, for a more relatable experience homestay is recommended
Languages Spoken: Major Indian languages like Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, and Marathi is widely spoken – English is understood by most.
Calangute is the largest beach town one in North Goa. Located in the township with the same name and referred to as the ‘Queen of Beaches’, Calangute Beach is surrounded by small shacks and restaurants, water sporting venues, and unending array of sun lounges – making it ideal place for exploring the sea and enjoying the sunny weather. The beach is located close to the busy market road, which is easily accessible.
Due to its centralized location, most tourists prefer staying at Calangute in Goa. From here you can easily head towards popular North Goa beaches such as Anjuna, Aguada, Baga, and Candolim.
What to Do at Calangute Beach?
Although, the beach is one of the most stunning attractions of the town, the Calangute Township has several wonderful appealing qualities. During the peak tourist season, this small suburb is crowded with tourists who come here to explore its wonderful weather and stunning landmarks. And of course, swimming and other beach activities.
Let’s check some of the attractions near the beach.
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Calangute Beach
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1. St. Alex Church
Address: Post Office Road, opposite Sarvodaya, Calangute, Goa 403516
Timing: 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM
One of the oldest churches of Goa, the history of the St. Alex Church dates back to 16th century. Originally dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe, this church had a simple structure. In the subsequent times, the church was expanded by the locals. The edifice of the church resembles St. Peters’ Basilica. Surrounded by a stunning garden and high towers here the visitors find peace and solitude – one thing that is missing in current life.
2. Baga Beach
If you are at the Calangute Beach, then you are just a stone’s throw away from the ever popular Baga Beach. One of the popular party strips of the Goa, the place is surrounded by several luxurious hotels and nightclubs. At Baga, the party starts early in the evening and continues till early in the morning.
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Banana Boating at Calangute Beach
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3. Water Sports at Calangute Beach
Water sports are a popular attraction of the beaches of Goa, and Calangute in Goa is no exception. You can go for parasailing, snorkeling, sailing, and many more things.
4. Mae De Deus Church
Address: Chogm Rd, Muddavaddi, Saligao, Goa 403511
Timing: 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
One of the finest Gothic style churches of Goa, the Church of Mae de Deus is just 5km (3.1mi) off Calangute Beach. Also referred to as the Mother of God Church, this 19th century church attracts tourists due to its architectural beauty and grandeur. The jutting spires topped with cross, imposing interiors and the beautiful statue Mae de Deus (the Virgin Mary) enhances the beauty of the church.
P.S: Hundreds of lights are illuminated after sundown, which enhance the beauty of this church.
5. Tibetan Market
Address: Calangute - Baga Rd, Umtav Vado, Goa 403516
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
One of the popular flea markets of Goa, the Tibetan Market is an out of the ordinary destination for shopaholics. Here you can find jewelry as well as several exotic bells and chimes, prayer bells, furniture and unusual trinkets. Haggling is a must here to get the most value for money deals. Also, several street vendors sell colorful Indian clothes and dress materials. It is the place to shop for souvenirs to take back home.
How to Get to Calangute Beach
Nearest Railway: Thivim (16 km or 9.9 miles)
From Thavim, you can book an app-based or a pre-paid taxi for Calangute beach. Usually the trip would cost around INR 800. However, during the peak season, the fare might surge.
Or else, you can board buses to Mapusa. At the given station board any bus heading towards Calangute. The entire trip would cost around INR 50, and would take around one hour.
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport (38.7 km or 23.6 miles)
Located approximately 24 miles (38.7 Km) from Calangute, you can go for app-based taxis to reach the destination. The cabs charge close to INR 1,300, but the prices might exceed depending on the demand for taxis.
Apart from that, Volvo A/C Seater buses operated by the state transport corporation are running from Dabolim Airport to Calangute every four hour. The entire trip would cost around INR 100 to 180, and would require one hour and thirty minutes to complete.
Tips for Travelers
• The township is one of the best places in India to celebrate the New Years’ festivities. However, during this time of the year, the prices usually surge up. To avoid paying extra making the booking early.
• During monsoons (June to September) the sea is rough and swimming in the beach is prohibited. If you are planning to come here during monsoons, you won’t be able to enjoy beach activities. However, the place has its own charm during the rainy season, and would surly tickle your romantic bone.
• At the Calangute Beach, you can find several changing rooms. These rooms can be booked for a fee. Apart from that, you can book a locker to store your belongings.