Although there are plenty of things on in March, Goa has a rich, shared Hindu and Christian heritage, so Christmas and Easter are periods of beautiful ceremonies unlike any you’ve seen.

• Zatra of Shantadurga (January) - This five-day festival sees villages from Fatorpa to Cuncolim open their streets to carnivals, market stalls and all-round good fun.

• Maha Shivratri (March) - In celebration of Lord Shiva’s dance of creation, people from all over India come together for feasts.

• Holi (March) - An iconic favourite around the world, this celebration sees plumes of rich colours filling the air as people throw powered paint at each other.

• Shigmo (March) - Colour fills the streets as lavish parades and floats celebrate Goa’s entering into Spring.

• Diwali (November) - Known as the festival of lights, this ceremony sees whole swathes of paper lanterns and tea light lamps lit across the country.

• Feast of St Francis Xavier (December) - A chance to visit the basilica of Old Goa and take part in a morning mass to pay homage to the patron saint of Goa.

• Sunburn Festival (December) - Asia’s largest electronic music festival, held in Vagator, it sees popular acts from all over come together to make some noise.

Between the bars, boozers and beach shacks, there’s no better place to dance the night away than India’s party capital. Here’s some of what Goa has to offer.

• Club Cabana - With a musical selection of hip-hop, R&B and house, this multileveled nightclub comes with a choice of swimming pools and Jacuzzis.

• LPK Waterfront - Situated along the Nerul river, this rock-carved hotspot runs morning, noon, and night.

• Cantare - Affordable drinks, live music, and a warm, comfortable atmosphere, all housed within a delightful vintage aesthetic.

• Britto’s - For a choice beach bar experience with great food to boot, look no further. One of Baga’s local legends.

• Hill Top - Goa’s open-space party central is known for two things: Its iconic neon lit atmosphere and New Year raves.

The many Goan spice plantations ensure that no dish will ever be bland. Here’s a few dishes to check out while visiting.

• Pork Vindaloo - A simple but hearty curry dish made with wine, garlic, and chili peppers.

• Chouris Pao - This flavourful finger food is chili sausage stuffed inside bread dough and baked to perfection.

• Kingfish - Whether fried as fillets or sauteed in a coconut curry, kingfish are a must try.

• Bebinca - If you thought coconut was just found in the curries, you need to try this sixteen-layered traditional Goan dessert.

• Prawn Balchão - A spicy, sweet alternative, try this prawn pickle combo for a unique taste.

If this list has whetted your appetite, allow us to recommend a few choice spots to enjoy the cuisine.

• Gunpowder - The go-to spot for working artists, we can see why they take such pride in their cocktails.

• Bomras - Known for its creative menu, there’s a reason why this place is often packed to the gills.

• Silly Souls Café - A fantastic little spot serving a blend of Asian and European flavours.

• Suzie’s - This place will continue to keep you guessing, as it’s known to change its menu every six weeks.