Arambol is a small fishing town in the north of Goa state. It is particularly popular among hippies and backpackers. Arambol Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Besides, the place has a laid-back vibe with lovely beachfront restaurants. Hire a motorbike and explore the beautiful surroundings. Or grab your towel and laze around on the beach. And finally, enjoy the beautiful sunset!
Are you planning to visit Arambol? And would you like to know more about the special history and culture of this destination in the state of Goa? In this travel guide, I will tell you more about its interesting history, read all about the best attractions and discover the best accommodation in town. A history-rich visit to Arambol starts here…
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*This article is also available in Dutch – Arambol Reisgids
Practical information & Travel Tips
- Best Time to Travel? The best time to visit Arambol is between November and May. From mid-November, the rainy season is just over and you will have little rainfall during these months. The summer months of June, July and August have the most rainfall.
- How many days? The main reason for visiting this coastal town in Goa is to relax and enjoy the beach. How long would you like to enjoy the beach? Plan at least 3 days for a visit and also rent a scooter for a day.
- Accommodation? Arambol is a small town, but has a lot of nice hotels and hostels. These are within walking distance from the Harmal Beach bus stop. Most hostels are near Arambol Mountain (north side).
- Tours & Tickets? Want to explore historic Goa? Then it’s best to stay in a place further south. After all, most of the historical sights can be found around Panaji.
- Transport? From Dabolim International Airport, it takes about 1.5 hours to get to Arambol. The route goes from Dabolim via Panjim and Mapusa to Harmal.
History – What makes Arambol historically interesting to visit?
Anyone who wants to catch the bus to Arambol should look for the word Harmal on it. In fact, this used to be the name of this small town of 5,500 inhabitants, but the name is still used. It is said to be a reference from the Mahabharata (religious epic from India). When the Pandavas (the protagonists of this epic) left this place, they are said to have called ‘Hari’ and ‘Mall’, meaning ‘the land of God‘.
Much of the history about Arambol is not known. It was once a sleepy fishing village with little to do. That changed when hippies visited the town in the 1960s. Since then, ‘Harmal’ has been a tourist destination with a laid-back vibe. If you want to explore history, the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church from 1780 (actually 1841) will do the trick. Or visit the historic Banyan Tree, where members of the Beatles are said to have meditated one day.
Top 5 Places to visit in Arambol
Those who go to Goa do so mainly for the beach and the fun parties. As a result, you can easily spend days in the prettiest coastal towns of this state. However, are you planning to visit Arambol and would like to know what to see and do? Below are 5 great places to visit.
1. Mount Carmel Church
This church in the centre of the town is one of the oldest in the region. It was built in 1780 and then dedicated to John the Baptist. When it was reconstructed in 1841, it was renamed Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church is one of the many churches built by the Portuguese in Goa. But it is definitely worth a look.
2. Drum Circle & Sunset Beach Market
Those taking an afternoon stroll along Arambol Beach will undoubtedly come across the Drum Circle & Sunset Beach Market. This is where people from all over the world sell their homemade goodies. It is among one of the most enjoyable markets in Goa. Especially since it is seen more like a festival with live music, dancing and, above all, lots of fun. The Arambol Drum Circle & Sunset Beach Market has been a part of this coastal town for years.
3. Sunset from Arambol Mountain
Those walking north from the beach are stopped at one point by a ‘mountain’. Arambol Mountain is a hill with houses, temples and a beautiful view. Once you have climbed the ‘mountain’, you have beautiful views of the beach and the sea. And you can enjoy a beautiful sunset there. Generally, this part of the coastal town is sometimes forgotten, but it also belongs to the gateway for number 4….
4. Paliem Sweet Water Lake
About 500 metres north of Arambol Mountain is Parliem Sweet Water Lake. This freshwater lake is an oasis of tranquillity, making it ideal for bypassing Arambol’s busy beach. Around the lake you will find a small number of restaurants and for those looking for accommodation in a quiet place, this is the place to be. By the way, are you a fan of paragliding? Then you can do that here too and see Arambol from the air.
5. Meditate at the Banyan Tree
Looking for a place to meditate? Near the freshwater lake, you’ll also find a Banyan Tree where a group of tourists gather every evening to relax. Once discovered by an Israeli tourist, it is now the place of a Baba (hermit). Incidentally, you will also find a Money Stone created by US-based artist Jacek Tylicki here. Finally, The Beatles are also said to have once meditated here. For more on this special place, check out this Times of India article.
Accommodation – Where to stay in Arambol?
Arambol has become a popular tourist destination since the 1960s. As a result, there is a wide range of nice hotels and hostels. I myself stayed first at Namyo Hostel & Guesthouse for a few nights, then a few nights at Soul Arambol Beach Hotel. The rooms in both accommodations are basic, but otherwise fine and for a good price.
Looking for accommodation in Arambol? Check out the options here!
Food & Drink: When it comes to food & drink, the range of restaurants and cafés is huge. For instance, you will find plenty of nice restaurants by the beach where you can enjoy a beer, good food and a setting sun. And in the centre of the town, you’ll also find plenty. Personally, I found Sansu Place Arambol cosy, atmospheric and the food there was excellent.
Transport – How to get there?
Arambol is located in the very north of Goa. The International Airport, Dabolim Airport, is 50 kilometres south near the town of Vasco de Gama. From Europe, you usually get here with a stopover in Delhi or Mumbai.
From the airport, it’s best to take a taxi to Arambol. It takes about 1.5 hours. By bus, you need to change buses at least twice in Panaji and Mapusa. In Mapusa, take the bus to Harmal.
Prefer to take the train? Arambol itself does not have a railway station. The nearest train station is Pernem. From the bus station in Pernem, take a bus to Arambol (Harambal or Harmal). The train does take at least 3 hours from the airport.
Plan your trip to Arambol & India
- How to book accommodation? To book hotels, it’s best to use Booking.com. You’ll find the largest selection of accommodation here. Book your hotel here. Would you rather use a hostel? Check out Hostelworld for the best options. Book your hostel here.
- Activiteiten: Tickets & Tours
- Transport: Bus & Train Tickets
- Flight tickets to Goa & India? Skyscanner
Do you have more tips, ideas or comments about Arambol in Goa, India? If so, feel free to leave a message below.
