Holiday Destination: Mapusa

A small town located 13 km from Panaji and known for modern buildings that spread around the slopes of a little hillock called Altinho. Etymologically Mapusa is a Konkani term ‘maap' which means a measure and ‘sa' means fill up. This third largest city of Goa has been developed ‘gaunkari' a farming community since the times of the Marathas and the Sultans. Some of the popular attractions of Mapusa The base to venture forth to some of the most exotic beaches in Goa. Baga beach lies 10 kilometers west of Mapusa and is an ideal place to enjoy a laidback vacation amidst the softs and the backdrop of paddy fields. Anjuna beach is a perfect destination for swimming and sun bathing. This coconut fringed beach becomes the most happening place in Goa during New Years Eve when the place is filled with enthusiastic party animals which continues till the wee hours of the morning.

Climate

Temperatures rarely going beyond 32° C. The carnival period in the month of February through to early March is another peak time, attracting a lot of tourists to Goa. It is a great season with parades, pageants and lots of merrymaking late into the nights.

Tourist Season

The best time to visit is between late October and early April.

Accommodation

Mapusa has quite a few hotels, but many visitors prefer to either stay on the coastal belt or in bigger cities of Goa like Panjim. The Govt of India Youth Hostel is very cheap ,and can be ideal for groups of students. As Mapusa is close to some popular beaches and to Panaji too, it can be a good staying place.

General Information Of Mapusa

Location: 13 kilometers north of Panaji, on NH-17, Bardez Taluka, Goa Best Time to Visit: October to March Highlights: Calangute beach, Anjuna beach, Aguada fort, Reis Magos fort, Mascarenhas Mansion, etc. Main Languages: Konkani, Hindi and English Main Religions: Hinduism, Christianity and Islam STD Code: 0832

Tourist Attraction in or Near by Mapusa

Friday Market

It is the most colorful and vibrant market that gives the glimpses of rural Goa. The market not only provides a shopping platform for Goa goods but also offers a close look into the Goa life.

Anjuna Beach

It is one of the popular beaches of Goa thronged by a large number of tourists from several parts of the globe. This beach is a perfect blend of sea, sun and sand whose charm is heightened by the palm fringed bays.

Mascarenhas Mansion

The wonderful Portuguese architectural style. The mansion is renowned for its stained glass floral engravings. Some of the other known attractions of that are visited by tourists during their Mapusa travel are Sri Kalika Temple, Sri Morjee Temple.

Sri Morjee Temple

It is said that the deity fulfills the wishes of those who pray with pure devotion.

Sri Kalika Temple

The Kalika Temple is dedicated to Hindu Goddess Kali. This temple presents a unique blend of aesthetic and modern architectural style.

Accessibility

By Road

The Kadamba Bus Terminal is the main hub for long distance state buses and local services to the nearby beaches such as Calangute, Anjuna, Vagator, and Arambol. The bus stand, located on the southwest edge of town, is a five minute walk down the main road.

By Air

Mapusa can be easily reached by air as the nearest airport to Mapusa is the Dabolim airport of Goa. Flights from Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities provide daily services for tourists.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Mapusa is around 12 kilometers away and is known as Thivim / Tivim railway station. Trains come here regularly from nearby cities and states. One can always hire local transport from here to reach the concerned hotel or resort.