Calangute is a popular tourist town in the state of Goa and is located towards the northern part of the state. Calangute is known for its large beach in Goa which is visited by thousands of national and international tourists every year. Calangute is situated 13 Kms from Panaji and approximately 8 kms from town Mapusa.
Calangute was originally known as Kolongutt. However, with Portuguese invasion to Goa, the name changed to Calangute and is known by the same till today. As per locales, word ‘cal’ signifies Hindu Goddess Kali. As per other sources, Calangute comes from the word Kalyan Gutti, meaning a small beautiful village.
Tourists mainly visit Calangute for its beautiful beach and for the various water sport activities conducted there. The beach of Calangute is largest in Northern Goa and is also known as queen of beaches. Calangute beach stretches itself from Candolim to Baga. Sun bathing, jet skiing, parasailing and relaxing by the beach are some of the activities to get indulged in when visiting Calangute beach.
The best time to visit Calangute is during Christmas and new years as the beach transforms into a party mode. The locals as well as the tourists celebrate New Year and Christmas with great fervor.
Calangute is well connected with other towns of Goa by road. State buses and taxis usually ply on these roads. One can also reach Calangute through train. The nearest railway station is at Thivim which is at half an hour distance from Calangute by train or taxi. Vasco Da Gama and Margao are railway stations close to Calangute.
