Sinquerim Beach

With the ramparts of the Aguada fort as a stoic backdrop, Sinquerim beach is the southern tip of one of the most popular stretches of sand in the world. The amount of tourist that wades through the sands each year must equal at least half the population of Goa, pegged at 13 lakh. Sinquerim incidentally is one of the less crowded and more ‘elite’ beaches along this stretch which also compromises of Candolim, Calangute and Baga.

Weather

The weather’s very sunny and carrying a sun screen with you all the while won’t be a bad idea. The temperature always ranges in the mid 30s (C) and threatens to climb all through the day. Winters are feeble, but the rains are boisterous and consistent from mid May to mid September.

Best time to visit:

Conventionally popular visiting months are from October to March. Some try to avoid Goa in the rains. But it’s worth a visit then too, to see the monsoons in their uninhibited glory.

Getting there / Route Information

By Bus

Although you have some direct buses, which take you from Panaji to Sinquerim, it would be a better idea for you to use the town of Mapusa as a base if its Sinquerim and the other beaches in Bardez you are aiming for. Buses for Sinquerim leave every half and hour from the main Mapusa bus stop. The bus journeys (they tend to be crammed during office hours) take about 40 minutes for the 11 odd km.

By Train

If it’s a train you are coming in, alight at Thivim railway station. It’s about 20 km from Sinquerim. Thivim is the only major railway head in North Goa. You could need to hire a pilot, auto or a cab from Thivim RS because bus connectivity isn’t all that great. You would have to break journey at Mapusa and board a bus to Sinquerim there on.

Pictures of Sinquerim Beach

 

Major attractions

Sinquerim is right in the eye of Goa’s most famed beach belt. The ramparts of the Aguda fort that touch the beach on its southernmost side make phenomenal viewing. A view of the sea from the round rock basin like rampart which stretches right out of the waters is awesome indeed.

Near the fort is another slightly off beat place you must drop by to see – The Aguada lighthouse. At night if you get to this place which is located right at the edge of a cliff it presents and almost awe-inspiring sight with the methodical swing of a powerful beam of light cutting the dark seas.

Some distance off Sinquerim is the picturesque Nerul village with inviting backwaters. Swim in protected areas only though as the mangroves which dot this estuary are known to have crocodiles in them. If you are in Nerul do not miss out on the opportunity of visiting Coco beach. The 16^th century Reis Magos fort is definitely worth a look-see. On the Northern end you could walk along the seemingly endless stretch of sand and reach Candolim in about 40 minutes of ambling.

Events

Don’t miss out of the Friday market at Mapusa, 11 km from Sinquerim where folks from villages in and around the town head there to sell utility goods along with a lot of exotic ware. You never know when a good bargain may turn up.

Nightlife

While Sinquerim is known more for the Fort Aguada and Taj Holiday village five star resorts and other resorts of this genre, nearby Calangute appears to believe in a lot more across the board tourism. Calangute rarely sleeps, rather sleeps very late in the tourist season. You will find discotheques, shacks and delectable restaurants, both boutique and otherwise open till the wee hours of the morning.

Shopping

Shopping in Sinquerim is for the genteel and caters mostly to the five star clients or the high-heeled ones. So you’d find expensive handicrafts and a lot of outlets run by Kashmiri’s who claim to sell authentic carpets, rugs, etc. but the best place to buy such stuff at competitive rates would be Calangute.

Vital Tourist Information

Hotel availability

Sinquerim caters to the top end tourist. Although accommodation is easily available, it is a bit pricey. But considering the fact that the beach is very close to Calangute, the latter becomes a great place to launch you excursions on this stretch from.

Local Transport

Motorcycle

The most preferred mode of transport is a motorcycle pilot, which are in effect two wheeler taxis, driven by licenced riders, who can transport one individual at a time.

Rent-a-bike

This is the latest addition to the transport modes in Goa and have become an instant hit. These self-driven yellow-letters-on-black number plate two wheelers or four wheelers can be sourced from the hotel you are put up in.

Taxis

Taxis, although are easily available during the peak season, the rates charged are exorbitant. Try hardball bargaining.

Nearest known city: Mapusa is at a distance of about 11 km

Contacts in case of contingency:

Hospitals/Clinics:	Goa Medical College. Tel: 0832-2458700/16
Police:	Calangute police station. Tel: 0832-2278284