The village of Anjuna is located in the northern part of Goa, India. Anjuna beach has been a popular tourist destination since quite a long time. Anjuna is known as the hippie capital of Goa. It is reputed for being one of the hippie haunts in the sixties and seventies, many people still staying long term here.
Anjuna is known as the centre for Goa psychedelic trance party scenes. Several psychedelic trance artists have originated here. And Goa trance is world famous.
The charm of Anjuna is understandable. The full moon parties are held here on the shores of the Arabian Sea are world renowned. The flea markets, which the locals claim offer everything under the sun, are held every Wednesdays.
Places to see
There are several places well worth visiting in Anjuna.
Flea Market
The Flea market is held once a week, on Wednesdays and sometimes on Saturdays.
The market is much visited by tourists and shopping enthusiasts. It is said by many visitors that anything under the sun is possible to be found at the flea markets. Hardcore shopping aficionados hang around here in search of good bargains. A variety of brilliant handicrafts from Tibet, Kashmir, Rajastan and Gujrat are displayed. Elephant rides are on offer. It is also possible to take pictures with dressed up ‘babas’ (ascetic men of God) and snake charmers.
Albuquerque Mansion
The splendid Albuquerque mansion was built in the year 1920. The mansion has octagonal towers. The roof is also attractive and is covered with Mangalore tiles.
Mascarenhas mansion
The monumental Mascarenhas Mansion, The porch is lined with a long L shaped seat made of costly. The balconies are classic in design. The Mascarenhas Mansion has one of the finest stained glass etchings, with elaborate floral designs.
Chapora Fort
Chapora Fort gives an excellent view of the Anjuna and Vagator beaches. The fort is in quite good condition except for some parts. The Chapora fort was a Muslim stronghold before Portugese invasion.
Acid house Parties
These parties are held by young people in the beaches with the accompaniment of Goa trance music. The music blares from huge speakers and the crowd, numbering in ten thousands, dances wildly. The parties generally go on till the sun rises.
Where to stay
There are numerous guesthouses and resorts in the general vicinity of Anjuna beach.
If you are planning to stay long, it is better to rent a house nearby.
How to get there
Anjuna beach is about 18 km from Panjim, the capital of Goa. The way adopted by many, to travel in Goa is to hire Motorcycles, which are readily available.
By Air
The Airport that is nearest to Anjuna is Dabolim, which is 29 km away.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is Karmali and is 29 km away.
Best time to visit
As the climate is tropical and pleasant in nature, Goa can be visited through out the year. It rains heavily from June to October. Tourists are advised to visit from November to March.
