Location: A commercial town in north Goa,
situated in the Bardez taluka, 13 kms south of Panaji, on the
National Highway 17.
Tourist attractions: The Friday market,
Church of our Lady of Miracles, Shrine of Lord Bogeshwar, The
temple of Lord Hanuman.
Best buys: All kinds of wares, souvenirs, dry
fruits, spicy sausages, handicrafts, etc.
Best activities: Shopping, site seeing.
Nearby tourist attractions: Anjuna beach,
Baga Beach, Chapora fort, Vagator fort, Sri Kalka mandir, Sri
Morji temple.
When to visit: October to March
About Mapusa
Mapusa or Mapsa as pronounced by the locals, is situated 13 kms
away from Panaji. It is the third largest city of Goa and the
capital of northern Bardez taluka. It is known for its famous
Friday market,
which
is the hub of shops of all kinds. Local residents and tourists
gather here to shop things ranging from groceries to exotic
souvenirs.
With the hustle and bustle of the Friday market, Mapusa has its
own Charm. A small town with fairly modern buildings attracts
the attention of all.
Major Tourist Attractions
The Friday market: Mapusa is famous for its Friday market
which is a major attraction for tourists. The market gives a
lively look to town. It surrounds the beach areas of Calangute,
Condolim, Anjuna and Baga among others.
The church of our Lady of Miracles: It is about 2 kms
east of market area in Mapusa. It was built in the year 1594 and
is locally known as St. Jerome. The church was reconstucted in
the year 1961. It is famous for its annual feast and is
considered sacred by all communities. Thus, giving a perfect
example of communal harmony.
Other attractions are temples and beaches in the nearby area.
How to Reach There
By Road: The Kadamba terminal is the departure point for
long distance state buses and local services to Calanguate, Baga,
Anjuna, Vagator, Chapora and Arambol. It is situated on the
southwest edge of the town. Private taxis are also available.
Accommodation
One get hotels of all kinds in Mapusa within a walking distance
of the Kadamba Bus stand, but the best budget deal is the GTDC
Tourist hotel. It has spacious, clean rooms, a Goa tourist
information counter and a small Damania shipping . Also look out
for various resorts near the beaches.
