Sights & Sounds of Margao - For a Mesmerizing Journey

Margao's main church was built in 1565 where an important Hindu temple stood. Just prior to demolition of the temple, the local Hindus managed to save and smuggle the statue of Lord Damodara to Zambaulim, and built a large temple there. The church itself was burnt to the ground right after by Muslim invaders and later rebuilt in 1675.

Another important church in the region, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, was constructed in the 16th century and remains one of the most popular in all of Goa. It is world-famous for the fact that it houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier in a silver casket wrought by Goan silversmiths in 1636. The church is marked by UNESCO as a World Heritage Monument.

Let the soothing sounds of crashing waves and the sight of golden sands at Gonsua beach rejuvenate your soul as you enjoy the best of your beach holiday. When looking for a suitable beach resort in Goa, consider staying at Alila Diwa Goa because it places you right on this picturesque beach and also within close proximity to other highlights of Margao.

Margoa's only hill is located about minutes from Sat Burnzam Ghor. The scenic climb showcases gorgeous views of Colva and Benaulim beaches. This hill is also home to Mount Church and a piazza located right across.

This Goa fort is located about 25 km from Margao was constructed during the arrival of the Portuguese. The boat ride features amazing views of the ruins of the fort.

Visit Palolem for one of the most unique party concepts where all party goers listen to their favourite DJ music via earphones as they dance the night away.

This picturesque beach faces a bay between two headlands and is one of the best in all of Goa. You can catch a boat ride with the local fishermen to some nearby islands or even go dolphin watching.

Take a short trip to Loutolim, just 9km from Margao, to visit Big Foot which showcases over a 100 years of Goan lifestyle and heritage. This centre for art and culture also features Goa's only designer dance floor and is shaped like a giant footprint. This venue is heavily used to promote music, dance and traditional culture.

One of the three sanctuaries in Goa, Cotigao covers an area of 105 sq km and features dense jungles and an array of wildlife. Some of the trees here are over 30m in height. The treetop watchtower is 25 m tall and places you in position to observe a watering hole where animals go to drink water in the evenings. The sanctuary also is home to a range of creatures such as flying squirrel, Indian pangolin, mouse deer, Malabar pit viper, flying lizard, golden-back gliding snake and much more. There are 8 natural trails that crisscross the sanctuary.