Goa holidays from the UK
India's most-loved beach state and a long-standing British favourite. Here is when to go, where to stay and the eVisa you need first.
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Why Goa is a British favourite
Goa has drawn UK holidaymakers for decades, and it is easy to see why: golden beaches, a warm winter climate exactly when Britain is grey, a laid-back Indo-Portuguese culture, fresh seafood and prices that make a fortnight in the sun genuinely affordable. Whether you want the buzzy north around Baga and Anjuna or the quieter south around Palolem and Agonda, Goa delivers a beach holiday with a distinctly Indian character.
Which eVisa do you need for Goa?
For a beach holiday, UK citizens need the India Tourist eVisa. If you visit Goa regularly, the one-year multiple-entry tourist eVisa is excellent value. Goa has two designated eVisa airports - Dabolim (GOI) in the centre and the newer Manohar/Mopa airport (GOX) in the north - so you can fly in directly on an eVisa. Compare the options on our visa types page.
Top beaches and things to do
- North Goa - Baga, Calangute and Anjuna for markets, nightlife and water sports.
- South Goa - Palolem, Agonda and Colva for calmer sands and boutique stays.
- Old Goa - UNESCO-listed Portuguese churches, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
- Spice plantations & Dudhsagar Falls - an easy inland day trip.
- Saturday night market at Arpora - a Goa institution for food and crafts.
Best time to visit
The Goa season runs November to March: warm, dry and sunny, and precisely when most British visitors escape the UK winter. The monsoon (June to September) is dramatic and green but wet, and many beach shacks close. See our full guide to the best time to visit India from the UK.
Getting there and arriving
Some seasonal charter and scheduled flights run from the UK, but many travellers connect via a Gulf hub or through Delhi or Mumbai, with total journeys of around 11 to 15 hours. On arrival, follow the e-Visa counters and have your printed eVisa, passport and e-Arrival Card ready. Apply early - our processing time guide explains the timeline.