The Beaches of Goa

Hotels in Goa

Goa has long been India's good-time Riviera, renowned for its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant markets and an energetic nightlife unrivalled anywhere on the subcontinent. This tiny state is blessed with almost year-round sunshine and a coastline graced with long sandy beaches. Each of these many beaches has its own character – some are crowded, others are almost deserted; some have white sands, others are dark brown. Each beach is worthy of exploration if you want to enjoy the total Goan experience. 

 

Several operators offer packages that take you to different beaches each day, but for a more rewarding hike it is hard to beat a self-guided tour. The 120 km (75 mi) coastline is interrupted only by the seven rivers that flow into the Arabian Sea. With judicious use of taxis and local fishermen, who run unofficial ferry services, it is possible to sample all that this amazing coast has to offer. Starting at the ruggedly beautiful Harmal Beach in the north and journeying to the wonderfully secluded Palolem Beach in the south, you are taken on an odyssey of high contrast. 

 

Near the capital, Panaji, the noise of the water gives way to the hubbub of people, as the town seems to spill over into the sea. Venturing south again takes you to Colva, the most popular beach in southern Goa, and it is easy to see why. Golden sands are lapped by the azure sea, while traders, fishermen and visitors give the whole area a wonderful market feel.

The crowds thin out once again as you head towards the silver sands of Palolem Beach. Also known as Paradise Beach, it is framed by the hills of the Western Ghats and lined with cute bamboo huts. It is a perfect spot to unwind.

 

HOW

On foot

WHEN TO GO

Anytime except the rainy season, which usually lasts from June to August.

TIME IT TAKES

Five to seven days

HIGHLIGHTS

Canacona Island - a ferry ride from Palolem Beach.

The view over the Arabian Sea from Harmal Beach.

Chapora Fort - a 500-year-old Portuguese fort, near Varca Beach.

Albuquerque Mansion – near Anjuna Beach.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

The coast of Goa can get maddeningly busy at times. If it all gets too much for you, remember that the further you go from Panaji the quieter it will be.

Hotels in Goa

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

 Hotels in Darjeeling

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is the most fascinating of all the 'toy train' routes in India. With a 610 mm (2 ft) gauge, it's the narrowest to be found on the subcontinent and it has the unique attraction for a mountain railway of having no tunnels – thus allowing passengers an uninterrupted view of the beautiful Himalayan landscape. Starting from New Jalpaiguri, this wonderfully preserved steam train meanders its way along an 86 km (54 mi) route, making a dozen or so stops along the way before journeying through picturesque tea plantations, and finally reaching the charming hill station of Darjeeling. 

 

Aside from the marvellous views, the climb itself is something to behold. Starting at an altitude of 100 m (330 ft), the train reaches an elevation of 2,000 m (6,600 ft) by the time it arrives at its destination. Several hair-raising bends greet you along the way, as the train seems to cling to the hill face like a mountain goat. At the aptly named 'Agony Point', the tightest bend on the line, the train seems to change direction completely in the blink of an eye. Whilst this journey can be taken in one go, there are several places along the route that are worth exploring.

 

Most notable are the village of TIndharia, which houses a railway workshop, and Ghum, the highest station in India and home to a railway museum. Having taken this amazing trip, it's easy to see why railway enthusiasts often list it in the world's top ten journeys. This diminutive railway was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, and while many stations are little more than wooden shacks, the sheer effort that has gone into keeping the line open is evident in its well maintained track, burnished engines and comfortably upholstered seats.

 

HOW

By train

TIME IT TAKES

Around eight hours one-way

WHEN TO GO

Avoid the monsoon season (June to September). Otherwise the climate is good year round.

HIGHLIGHTS

The views of Khanchenjunga - the third highest peak in the world.

The Happy Valley Tea Estate - well worth a visit to see how they produce what some regard as the best tea in the world.

Giddapahar Mandir - a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, just outside Kurseong.

The Buddhist Monastery at Ghum - home to ancient texts and beautiful murals.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

The area around Darjeeling is subject to periods of unrest, which can cause the line to be closed. You should always check the situation before travelling and take advice from your embassy. 

Hotels in Darjeeling