The Complete Guide to a Kosher Trip to Goa
Goa, the small coastal state in southwestern India, is one of Israeli backpackers' most beloved destinations — and Chabad House Goa on Palolem beach, serving around 50,000 Jewish travelers a year, has become a real institution. Palolem beach itself, one of South Goa's most beautiful, sits right alongside the Chabad house. Here's a short guide to planning your visit.
Chabad House Palolem
Chabad House Goa, next to the international hotel on Kudley beach in Palolem, offers a Glatt kosher meat restaurant with spices imported from Israel — including traditional Moroccan couscous on Fridays. Full Shabbat meals, packaged for delivery, can also be pre-ordered. An additional Chabad location operates in Anjuna, but only during the holiday season.
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Palolem Beach — quietest early in the morning
Palolem Beach, one of South Goa's most beautiful and peaceful crescent-shaped beaches with calm waters, is the home beach of the Israeli community. Practical tip: arrive before 8am to enjoy the beach nearly empty, before the mattresses and umbrellas of the beachfront cafés are set out and fill up.
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Cabo de Rama Fort — a half-day trip
Cabo de Rama Fort, a Portuguese fortress on a dramatic cliff above the Arabian Sea about 25 km from Palolem, offers breathtaking views and completely free entry. Practical tip: combine the visit with a walk down to the small, quiet beach beneath the fort — reached via a steep forest path, and rewarding with complete isolation from the crowds.
See all optionsBetween the bustling Chabad House Palolem and the stunning beach and Cabo de Rama Fort, Goa offers exactly the getaway Israeli backpackers are looking for — beach, quiet, and Jewish infrastructure that feels like home.
Stay in the kosher area of Goa (Palolem)
For Shabbat in Goa (Palolem), base yourself in or near Palolem - Chabad House Goa (Chabad house listed on the site) is within walking distance from there, along with the other kosher listings for the city.
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Guided Tours & Experiences
Guided tours, entry tickets and experiences in every destination - most with free cancellation, so you can plan ahead and still stay flexible around Shabbat and the chagim.
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Rent a car in Goa (Palolem)
Compare prices across local and international car rental companies at every destination - often significantly cheaper than booking direct, with free cancellation.
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Airport Transfer to Your Hotel
Book a private transfer from the airport to your hotel and back - a fixed price agreed in advance (no meter surprises), a driver waiting for you with a sign bearing your name, and no need to haggle or speak the local language.
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