Anjuna
is a picturesque little sea side village in North Goa, on the shores of the
Arabian Sea. Discovered by the flower children in the late 60's, it still
remains the undisputed capital of Goa's rave scene. Its colourful past and
vivacious present have given it a surreal quality where anything goes. All
kinds of people congregate here to party up a storm and later unwind at its
many laid back beaches.
Shallow red laterite cliffs border Anjuna's beaches, terraced coconut
plantations add a dash of vivid green to its landscape and silvery white
sands welcome the azure waters that endlessly wash over it and then recede.
Anjuna's abundant natural beauty has made it a perfect setting for many a
hopping beach party. Along with its frenetic parties, the beaches here also
have a laid back atmosphere; many restaurants offer an array of global
cuisines. Shops, stalls and lamani women sell trinkets from all over India
and the option of water sports adds activity to an other wise lazy and
relaxing holiday.
Attractions
Anjuna is so huge that there is actually a south, middle and north Anjuna
beach. Most of the hotels, bars and restaurants are clustered around the
north beach area. The St. Anthony's Church is worth a visit and the Flea
Market makes the village come alive with colour every Wednesday. This
colourful market was begun by the hippies who lived here in the 1970s,
however, today one finds a large number of Tibetans, Kashmiris and Lamani
women peddling all kinds of trinkets and clothes from all over India. An
eclectic array of goodies can be found here, don't be surprised to come
across some good quality hummus and yak cheese.
Entertainment
The nightlife is what Anjuna is really famous for. From raves on moonlit
beaches to very many trance bars, Anjuna always has many simultaneous
parties each night to keep things rocking. Water sports are another added
attraction here, limited mostly to the calmer south beach area, snorkelling
around the rocks allows one to spot a large variety of sea life.
Accommodation
The Tamarind
The Tamarind hotel is about two and a half kilometers away from the beach
and offers comfortable accommodation. The rooms are priced between Rs 600 to
Rs 2,500. The hotel also has a swimming pool, facilities for mini golf and
billiards.
White Negro
With a name as outrageous and politically incorrect the White Negro, this
hotel does stand out for reasons other than its name. The accommodation is
elegant and priced between Rs 300-1,000. The hotel is a short walk away from
the beautiful church of St. Anthony's.
Hotel Bougainvilla
Set in an old mansion on a wooded estate this hotel has a wonderfully
soothing atmosphere. Not too close to the beach, however it provides
spacious and agreeable accommodation for Rs 400 - 3,800.
Location
Anjuna is a small sea side village that lies 18 kms away from Panaji, the
capital of Goa. It is situated in the north Bardez Taluka, just south of
Vagator Beach and north of the Baga-Calangute-Candolim stretch, from which
it is cut off by the Baga river.
Getting There
Air - The nearest airport is at Dabolim, which is 29 km
away from Panaji and 47 km from Anjuna. A pre paid taxi costs around Rs 700
from here to Anjuna.
Rail - From Thivim Station, which is 19 kms away, a taxi
costs Rs 300 while from Panjim Station, which is 25 kms away, a taxi costs
Rs 400.
Road - Motorcycle taxis take you from Anjuna to Vagator
and Calangute. Buses operate from Panjim and Mapusa about every hour. Autos
are also available from Mapusa.
