Arambol

Arambol Beach is located a few kilometers from the city of Mapusa within the Pernem administrative region of northern Goa.

The beach attracts many international tourists, mainly during the winter season between December and February. Arambol has a distinct bohemian feel which is no longer found in areas such as Calangute and this inevitably attracts many hippie travellers.

Currently no major hotels exist in this area due to local pressure and consequently rooms are available at very reasonable rates when compared to tourist laden beaches such as Baga and Candolim. Arambol beach is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa, amongst many other popular locations including Vagator, Anjuna and Palolem.

A short walk north of the main beach there is a smaller beach with a fresh water lake close to the sea. The jungle valley, enclosed between low hills hide a spectacular Banyan tree. Adjoining the banyan tree there is a stone sculpture created by an American Conceptual and Land art artist Jacek Tylicki "Give if you can - Take if you have to" also called "the money stone". It became a pilgrimage destination.

The majority of the locals are either Christian or Hindu. The Church of 'Our Lady of Mount Carmel' serves the religious interests of all the Catholics in the area. Mother Mary is referred to as 'Saibinn Mai' in the local Konkani language.