Mapusa

Mapusa is small but pleasant town in Northern Goa, without many sights. But the reason why every bus from and to Mumbai stops here, is the famous Friday market. Every traveller from far and wide comes here to stock up on groceries. But the most appealing are the arts and crafts from other states, like Kashmir and Rajasthan. Women of the Rabbani tribe, usually in colourful clothes and extensive jewellery, sell their products here as well. Generally, the prices are lower here than in the beach resort shops. Book lovers should be on the lookout for Other India Bookstore, which has an overwhelming collection of books on nature, politics, education and natural medicine. You don’t have to look hard for delicious chai or snacks; there’re plenty of nice cafes around the market square.