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IN PICS: Top 10 beach destinations in India!
TripAdvisor announced its list of top beach destinations that were chosen by millions of travellers across the world. Check out which beaches you must hit this summer in India.
When TripAdvisor released its 2012 Travellers' Choice Beach Destination Awards list, we weren't surprised see the state of Goa dominating the list. Eight of the ten beaches appeared in the top ten.
This is the second edition of the awards globally but it is the first time that India has been included in it.
The final list of the top ten destinations has been drawn up from millions of reviews and opinions of travellers from across the country and the world.
There are eight beaches from Goa in the India list. Find out which beach destinations made the cut and which didn't!
What is YOUR most favourite beach? Tell us about it! Email us pictures of your favourite beach along with a small write-up about your trip there! Simply write to getahead@rediff.co.in (Subject line: My favourite beach) and we will publish the best responses right here on rediff.com!
Number 10: Calangute, Goa
Also known as the 'Queen of Beaches', Calangute is a haven for tourists all year round. Many of the clubs and shacks open up onto the beach. There are lots of shows held on the beach including rock, pop beat shows, open-air dances, and fetes. It is easy to get around Calangute by foot or taxi. Bikes and scooters are available for rent and are great ways to take in the local scenery and culture.
Number 9: Baga, Goa
Baga is especially popular among travellers who want to bask peacefully in the warmth of Baga Beach by day and enjoy lively restaurants and nightlife after the sun sets. However, Baga is also perfect for the adventure seeker, with a wide range of water sports from jet skiing to parasailing. Travellers looking to spot wildlife should take the crocodile and dolphin tours.
Number 8: Benaulim, Goa
Legend has it that the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, known as Parashuram, shot an arrow into the sea and the town of Benaulim was formed. Benaulim is now known for its scenic coastline, breathtaking beaches, gorgeous resorts and exciting water sports. Those seeking more leisurely activity can take a boat ride for dolphin spotting. Although it has grown in popularity, Benaulim has managed to remain peaceful and undisturbed, allowing travellers to marvel in its natural beauty.
Number 7: Varkala, Kerala
The Arabian Sea laps at the majestic cliffs of Varkala, creating a stunning backdrop for tanning and swimming. The waters here are thought to have holy properties that will wash away sins. It's no wonder that the sunsets here are near-religious experiences.
Number 6: Varca, Goa
Wooden fishing boats dot the shores of Varca, an immensely popular destination for domestic and international beach-goers. More relaxed than other parts of fun-loving Goa, Varca provides plenty of opportunities to sip cold beers in the shade of thatched beach shacks while keeping a watchful eye out for the bobbing of bottlenosed dolphins.
Number 5: Cavelossim, Goa
Visit Cavelossim and you may be lucky enough to spot dolphins playing off shore. If you love clean, soft, white sand, vivid colours and music, and the 'Goan vibe' with its lingering Portuguese influence, this laid-back beach town with miles of shoreline will captivate you.
Number 4: Salcette, Goa
Time seems to stand still in Goa, where the beach shack is king and the beer is cold. The hamlet of Salcette features tropical conditions and a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of India's colourful chaos.
Number 3: Canacona, Goa
Canacona, located in South Goa, offers an extraordinary getaway for activity seekers and avid beach bums. It's easy to relax on the popular Canacona beach with the majestic Sahyadri Hills as your backdrop. Feeling adventurous? Try one of the many water sports. Other bustling beaches are the Agonda and Palolem, both teeming with shops and eateries. There are also lesser-known, secluded beaches available for those seeking nothing more than peace and tranquility. Two fresh water springs, Puroner and Gogel offer a break from the saltwater experience.
Number 2: Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Postcard-perfect scenery and exceptionally colourful reefs draw travellers to Havelock Island, a territory of India that's close to Myanmar. Some call Radhanagar Beach the most beautiful beach in Asia, while Elephant Beach rewards you with tourist-free snorkelling among schools of tropical fish.
Number 1: Candolim, Goa
Candolim, once a fishing village, is now a popular resort destination. It is perfect for travellers looking for a relaxing holiday filled with fine dining, souvenir shopping and beachcombing. Candolim offers a soft, sandy beach with deep blue water, ideal for swimming. Masseurs are available for any sunbathers in need of a massage. The beach is lined with interesting shops, hawkers, cafes and restaurants, while boat tours are available for dolphin watching.
Candolim is just north of the Mandovi river and is home to Goa's most popular and well known resort and holiday village. As such, it's not a typical backpackers destination. The Candolim beach itself does not have much to offer when compared to its livelier neighbour, Calangute. However, if sunbathing and take the occasional dip is your thing then Candolim will offer you the perfect experience.
One of the more interesting sights from Candolim beach is the bulk carrier 'River Princess' which ran aground 100 metres offshore. While at the Candolim beach do not miss out the Aguada Fort. The fort was built by the Portuguese way back in 1912 for defense against the Dutch and the Maratha invaders. Candolim is also a very popular evening destination as it has a number of very good restaurants and night clubs.
Rankings based on TripAdvisor's Travellers' Choice Beach Awards, chosen by millions of travellers across the globe.