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Margao or Madgaon is Goa’s second largest city and a bustling commercial center. Surrounded by lush greenery, there are several things to do in Margao, dotted with several temples and spiritual centers. Margao is known for its quiet atmosphere and scenic beauty. The town offers affordable accomodations for tourists, attracting a large number of tourists from across the world. With a number of delectable dishes to taste and several thrilling activities to be a part of, Margao is a one-stop destination for a memorable and exciting vacation in Goa.
8 Best Things To Do In Margao
With unmatched tourist options to explore, there are several things to do in Margao in a tranquil setting amidst thrilling activities:
1. Explore San Thome Museum
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
San Thome Museum in Margao is the finest museum in Goa and one of the best things to see in Margao. This museum in Goa is the only museum that is dedicated to the Technical Revolution that started in 1800 AD. A finest jewel in Goa’s treasure trove, San Thome Museum is named after Thomas Edison who invented many features of today’s smartphone. The museum will take you back in time and one can explore all the inventions in technology from the 18th century till date. San Thome Museum in Margao is a must visit destination for students and technology buffs for a lifetime experience.
Location: Varca, Margao
Entry Fees: ₹200 per person
Timings: 9 AM to 6:30 PM
2. Visit Church Of Our Holy Spirit
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
Church of Our Holy Spirit is a 17th century building built during the Portuguese rule in Goa and is one of the oldest churches in Margao. The site once had a holy shrine dedicated to Hindu deity, Lord Damodar. The original temple was destroyed by the Portuguese before the church was built. The Church has witnessed numerous transitions in Margao and is one of the best things to do in Mapusa for its opulent architecture and religious significance. Visit the church in Margao for a soothing and divine experience in Goa.
Location: Borda, Margao
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 9 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 7 PM
3. Relax At Zalor Beach
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Wondering what to do in Mapusa? A beach which is not very crowded in Margao, Zalor Beach has got your back. This is a small beach lying just south of Varca Beach. The pristine white sands, clear skies, and turquoise blue waters offer a serene experience to the tourists in Margao. Located at a distance of 14 km from the Margao city, the Zalor Beach is dotted with some colorful shacks, swaying palm trees, and beach huts that offer an exciting encounter for the hippies in Goa. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach coastline or simply admire the setting sun at this quaint beach here.
Location: Salcette, Margao
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 6 AM to 10 PM
4. Seek Blessings At Sri Damodar Temple
Photo: Balaji Srinivasan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
At a distance of 19 km from Margao, Sri Damodar Temple is situated in South Goa. The famous temple in Margao is dedicated to Lord Damodar, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is a highly revered temple by the Hindus as well as the Catholics and is visited by people from all walks of life. The most vibrant festival celebrated in Shri Damodar Temple is the Shigmo, a Hindu spring festival of colors. It lasts for a week and is celebrated with full zeal and enthusiasm with a vibrant affair of fests, fairs, cultural activities, and traditional food.
Location: Zambaulim Village, Margao
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 5:30 AM to 9:45 PM
5. Visit Rachol Seminary
Photo: Arnautpinho / Wikimedia Commons
Built in 1609, Rachol Seminary is one of the best things to see in Margao. Located in South Goa, this is the oldest and largest seminary in Goa. With a history of over 400 years, visitors can explore the stunning church, wall murals, and paintings that are made by popular artists like Angelo da Fonseca here. It is also the place where the priests are trained according to the Christian traditions and customs. Tourists visit the Rachol Seminary for its vintage construction, lush green park, beautiful church, and an overall tranquil experience in Goa.
Location: Angelo Road, Rachol, Margao
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM
6. Pray At Our Lady Of Grace Church
Photo: Leena DAlmeida / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
At a distance of 3.4 km from Margao, Our Lady of Grace Church is among the top churches in Goa. Also known as the Nossa Senhora da Grace, The Church boasts classic Italian style architecture. Established in the year 1959, the church was earlier a military chapel. Being smaller as compared to the other churches in Goa, Our Lady of Grace Church is a peaceful place and represents the first breath of the Renaissance in Portuguese architecture. The church is surrounded by verdant landscapes and lush greenery, offering a tranquil experience to those to visit.
Location: Pajifond, Margao
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 7 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM, on all days
7. Explore Pandava Caves
Photo: Ankit Saha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Arvalem Caves, also popularly known as the Pandava Caves are said to have been the shelter of the five Pandavas, of the Mahabharata epic, during their exile. The Pandava Caves are very much patterned in the Buddhist cave style. The mysterious look of the caves have been attracting the tourists for a long period of time. Additionally, Rudreshwar temple and a relaxing waterfall near the caves makes this place one of the fascinating things to do in Goa. The Shiva linga found in the caves are said to be similar to those of the Elephanta, Ajanta, and Ellora caves in Maharashtra.
Location: Near Sanquelim Village, Margao
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 9 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM, everyday
8. Wander At Margao Market
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Margao Market in Margao, with over 100 stalls and outlets selling a wide and diverse array of exotic items, bustles with people. The crowded streets of the market sell items including textiles, handicrafts, paintings, junk and seashell jewelry, and various other interesting souvenirs and consumer goods. Visitors to the Margao Market can also indulge in relishing some of the most delectable and mouth-watering Goan food that will surely lure you into having more of it.
Location: Comba, Margao
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
The ancient, bustling yet serene city of Margao is open to all and is dotted with heavenly and picturesque tourist destinations. Various things to do in Margao will surely make your vacation a fun-filled and enthralling one. Get ready, pack your bags, and plan a trip to Margao in South Goa with TripXL for a comfortable and hassle-free journey in Goa. Embark on a family vacation or a friends trip that is packed with thrill, adventure, and bliss away from the crowded streets and allure of the city.
Cover Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
