Mapusa,
also pronounced as Mapsa by the locals, this place is situated on the
converging point of the National highways going through Goa. Mapusa has only
a limited number of hotels and accommodation because it is a mainly
commercial town catering to the locals and has a large resident population.
Mapusa's nearness to many famous beaches of the north makes it an
appropriate tourist spot during the peak tourist season in the months of
October to March.Mapusa Attractions
Friday Market
Mapusa' s main attraction is its famous Friday Market where people from all over Goa come to buy and sell their commodities. Everything from incense sticks, spices, fruits and vegetables, fresh as well as dried fish, to souvenirs of other states of India are available here. This market also attracts a large number of foreign tourists who come here to add new things to their existing collection of souvenirs and other stuff.
Anjuna Beach
The Anjuna Beach is situated 8 Km west of Mapusa. The Anjuna beach is commonly called as the freak capital of the world. A superb beach, surrounded by groves of swaying coconut palms and fluorescent palm trees, bathing is considered quite safe here.
Baga Beach
The Baga beach is a scenic beauty, with the creek and the retreat house perched on the hill contributing to its unique beauty. The Baga beach is more of a fishing beach. It is a serene and tranquil beach.
Albuquerque Mansion
This Albuquerque mansion was built in 1920. Octagonal towers and an attractive Mangalore tile-roof border this magnificent mansion.
Mascarenhas Mansion
The Mascarenhas mansion is one of the major attractions in Mapusa. It is known for its rich look and beautiful balconies. There is an L shaped seat along the length of the porch, which is made of expensive wood. The Mascarenhas mansion boasts of some of the finest stained glass floral etchings.
Sri Kalika Temple
The Kalika temple is one of the most important Hindu monuments in North Goa. This famous temple is dedicated to Sri Kalika and is situated in the Village Kansarpal near Assonora, which is 14 Km from the Mapusa town. The Kalika temple represents a fine blend of aesthetics and architectural designs.
Sri Morjee Temple
Sri Morjee temple is yet another attraction of Mapusa town. It is situated at Pernem Taluka, about 15-km from Mapusa. The temple is dedicated to Kanakeshwar Baba or Bodgeshwar, locally known as Bongini. The presiding deity is regarded as one who fulfills desires of the devotees. People offer presents to the deity on the fulfillment of desires.
An important church in this town is the Church of Our Lady of Miracles. It is more prominent for its annual feast than for its architectural splendor. The Hindus also consider the church sacred as it was built on an ancient Hindu holy spot.
How to Reach Mapusa
By Air
The Dabolim airport in Panjim is the nearest airport from Mapusa town.
By Road
All the buses traveling to and from Goa to Mumbai, Pune and a number of other destinations pass through Mapusa. Local buses ply to all the nearby beaches and other surrounding areas.
By Rail
The Tivim (Thivim) Railway station, 12 km away, is the nearest Railway station from Mapusa. There are rickshaws and tourist taxis available here to take you to the nearest beach hotel or resort.
