Goa -Tourism

Variously known as "Pearl of the Orient" and a "Tourist Paradise", the state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan. The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendors of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favorite with travelers around the world. But then, Goa is much more than just beaches and sea. It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer. Much of the real Goa is in its interiors, both inside its buildings and in the hinterland away from the coastal area. Legends from Hindu mythology credit Lord Parshuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu with the creation of Goa.

Over the centuries various dynasties have ruled Goa. Rashtrakutas, Kadambas, Silaharas, Chalukyas, Bahamani Muslims and most famously the Portuguese have been rulers of Goa.

Goa was liberated by the Indian Army from Portuguese colonization on December 19, 1961 and became an Union Territory along with the enclaves of Daman and Diu. On May 30, 1987 Goa was conferred statehood and became the 25th state of the Indian Republic.

Having been the meeting point of races, religions and cultures of East and West over the centuries, Goa has a multi-hued and distinctive lifestyle quite different from the rest of India. Hindu and Catholic communities make up almost the entire population with minority representation of Muslims and other religions.

All the communities have mutual respect towards one another and their secular outlook has given Goa a long and an unbroken tradition of religious harmony. The warm and tolerant nature of the Goans allows them to celebrate and enjoy the festivals of various religions such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, Christmas, Easter and Id with equal enthusiasm.

The state of Maharashtra borders Goa on the north, the state of Karnataka on the south and east. The vast expanse of the Arabian Sea on the west forms the magnificent coastline for which Goa is justly famous.

Terekhol (Tiracol), Mandovi, Zuari, Chapora, Sal and Talpona are the main rivers which weave their way throughout the state forming the inland waterways adding beauty and romance to the land besides being used to transport Goa's main export commodity of Iron and Manganese ore to Mormugao Harbour. Along the way to the coast these waterways form estuaries, creeks and bays breaking the sandy, palm-fringed coastline behind which lie the fishing villages among the coconut groves.

Panaji (Panjim) is the state capital located on the banks of the Mandovi river and Vasco, Margao, Mapusa and Ponda are the other major towns. Goa is serviced by an international/national airport located at Dabolim near Vasco. An intra-state and inter-state bus network also plays an important role in getting locals and visitors alike in and around Goa.

The vast green expanse of the Sahyadri mountain range ensures that Goa has an abundance of water. The sea and rivers abound in seafood - prawns, mackerels, sardines, crabs and lobsters are the most popular with the locals and the visitors.

Along with English which is widely spoken all over Goa, Konkani and Marathi are the state languages. The national language Hindi is also well understood in most areas around the state.

Goan cuisine is a blend of different influences the Goans had to endure during the centuries. The staple food in Goa is fish and rice, both among the Hindus and the Catholics. Unlike the Christian food the Hindu Goan food is not strongly influenced by the Portuguese cuisine.

Fields in GoaSince the arrival of the Hippies in the sixties, Goa has been a major destination on the itinerary of international and domestic tourists.

The tourist season in Goa begins in late September and carries on through early March. The weather in these months is usually dry and pleasantly cool.

Then the weather gets fairly hot around May and by end of June, Goa receives the full blast of the Indian monsoon with sudden downpours and tropical thunderstorms. However it is also during the monsoon that Goa is probably at its most beautiful, with greenery sprouting all around.

Besides the natural beauty, the fabulous beaches and sunshine, travelers to Goa love the laid-back, peaceful, warm and friendly nature of the Goan people. After all, more than anywhere else on planet earth, this is a place where people really know how to relax.

Places to Visit in Goa- Goa is a verdant natural paradise bounded on the one side by the foothills of the Sahyadri range and on the other by the Arabian Sea.  The old adage is true: Living in Goa is a 365-day vacation. Beaches, scenic sunsets, historical forts and an easygoing life make Goa one of the best beach destinations in India. Whether you want to witness the majestic 600-m-high Dudhsagar Falls or try your luck in Casino Royale, Goa serves travelers of varied tastes. From the famed Fort Aguada to the blue waters of Dona Paula and Sinquerim beaches, there's no dearth of points of interest in Goa.

If you want to get the same feel of that of Las Vegas and Miami, staying in India, visit Goa. The nightlife in Goa has to be experienced close to the beaches in North Goa - Baga and Calangute - where most of the bars and restaurants offer live music accompanied by amazing coastal cuisine. Even if you can't make it to Goa Carnival, which is held every year, you can always feel the carnivalesque atmosphere and a cosmopolitan crowd making the most of their visit.

Tourist Places in Goa 

Dona Paula Beach- Located at a close proximity of 4 Km from Panjim city, Dona Paula is one of those beaches in Goa that you must pay a visit to. You will see many tourists having fun there and involving themselves in various kinds of water sports. If you are a lover of scenic beauty, then reach the far-end of the beach and have a great time seeing the beautiful view. The amazing fact about this beach is its different, more cleaner water colour. When you are on this beach, don't forget to take a sip of the lemon drink that the locals sell.

Bogmalo Beach- If you are staying somewhere near Dabolim Airport, make sure you go to Bogmalo beach. The sunset of this beach is something that should not be missed when you are in Goa. It used to be a small fishing hamlet, but now it is growing as a tourist hub.

Candolim Beach- Located 14 Km north of Panaji in the state of Goa, the Candolim Beach is a part of a long extension of beach coastline along the Arabian Sea that begins at Fort Aguada and ends at Chapora Beach. This place is also famous as it is the birth place of Abba Faria, considered to be one of the Goan freedom fighters and the Father of Hypnotism.

Miramar Beach- The Miramar Beach is situated 1 kilometer ahead of the confluence of Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea. It is situated on the way towards Dona Paula, about 3 kilometers from Panjim, the capital city of Goa. The Miramar Beach is also known as 'Gasper Dias'. It begins at the gulf and then culminates in the Emerald Coast Parkway. It is a golden beach fringed with palm trees. The soft sands of the beach makes it the best site for evening walks. Moreover, 'miramar' in Portuguese implies 'viewing the sea'. Tourists can get a glimpse of the majesty of the Arabian Sea from the Miramar Beach at Goa. 

Majorda Beach- Majorda Beach is situated in the southern part of Bogmola. It is one of the marvelous beaches in Goa that is located about 18 kilometers from Dabolim Airport. Marjorda Beach in Goa is connected to Margao an offer an excellent network of roadways, including buses, auto rickshaws and taxis. It is one of the most popular beaches of Goa.

Majorda Beach of Goa has a strong bearing upon the Indian mythology. Legends believed that Lord Rama was kidnapped and brought to the Majorda beach in his childhood. It is also said that Lord Rama came to the beach in search of his wife, Sita. He is said to have come to Cabo-de-Rama, which lies in the southern part of the beach. 

Mobor Beach- Mobor Beach is an ideal location for the adventure tourists. It is one of the most popular beaches in Goa, which enables the tourists to indulge in adventure sports such as water skiing, water surfing, jet ski, banana and bump rides, and para-sailing. The beach can be visited throughout the year; however, the best months to visit Mobor Beach of Goa is between the months of September and March.

The Mobor beach is one of the most popular tourist sites in the city. Every year thousands of tourists come to the beach to indulge in water sports. In fact, the Cavelossium-Mobor is famous for water sports.

Colva Beach- The Colva Beach lies about 6 Km to the west of Margao and is the oldest, largest and the most spectacular beach of South Goa. The beach consists of about 25 Km of the fine-powdered white sand and is bounded along its coast by coconut palms that stretch from Bogmalo in the north to Cabo-de-Rama in the south, along south Goa's coastline. In the colonial days, it used to be the resting area for Margao's high society, who would visit Colva for their "Mundanca" or change of air. Today, the area that is reminiscent of the luxurious lifestyle of the aristocratic class has beautiful houses or villas that dot the village. 

Anjuna Beach- Located about 18 kilometers from Panaji and situated in Bardez taluka, the Anjuna Beach is part of a 30-km extended beach coastline along the west coast of Goa by the Arabian sea. The Village of Anjuna, a five square mile area is nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Hill overlooking the beach. The beach is famous for its stunning natural beauty with swaying palms trees and soft-powered white sands. 

Varca Beach- Varca Beach is one most popular tourist sites in Goa. It is one of the most beautiful and exotic beaches of Goa and is situated about 2 kilometers from Benaulim. The beach is marked by a number of wooden boats, belonging to the fishermen of the city. The Varca Beach in Goa is known for its soft white sands and its cleanliness. It is one of the cleanest beaches in Goa that allows the tourists to spend some time in solitude.

Sinquerim Beach- The Sinquerim Beach of Goa is located some 13 km away from Panaji and is stunningly beautiful and quieter than the other beaches of Goa. This long, extended sandy terrain that runs incessantly along the coast is ideal for taking a walk. The glistening sands and the cool water caressing the feet give you the best feeling in the world. The beach is a tranquil and spectacular stretch of sand and an ideal place for swimming. The tourists come down to this beach quite often and prefer it over others for its pristine and serene setting.

The lovely beach of Sinquerim is one of the oldest preserved beaches in Goa. The famous fort Aguada is located near the beach. Fort Aguada was built by the Portuguese in the early 17th century to defend themselves against any foreign attack and to control the entry of the intruders through River Mandovi. 

Vagator Beach- The Vagator beach - located near Mapusa Road, North Goa and 22 Km far from the state capital Panaji - is less crowded and isolated compared to other Goan beaches. It boasts of pure white sand doted with black lava rocks and swaying coconut and palm trees, and lies within the backdrop of the 500-year-old Portuguese Fort. It can easily take the visitors down the memory lane depicting the Old Portuguese era.

Vagator's broad white sandy beach, Big Vagator Beach also known as "Little Vagator", is undeniably beautiful and offers picturesque vista with the red ramparts of Chapora Fort. At the southern end of the beach, a row of makeshift cafes that provide shade and sustenance for a predominantly Israeli crowd stand out. Like Anjuna, Vagator is a relaxed, comparatively undeveloped resort that appeals, in the main, to budget travelers with time on their hands. Accommodation is limited, Reaching There 

Immaculate Conception Church & Reis Magos Fort- Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church was one of the first churches to be built in Goa. It is said to be there since 1541. The early church was completely re-built from its foundation in 1619 and this was even considered, taking into account of the negligible population of the area and the size of the new church, a striking commentary on the religious climate of the time and the wealth available to the churches. 

Morjim Beach- The Morjim Beach, popularly known as the Turtle Beach, is located in Pernem, north Goa. The beach is bestowed with elegant vistas, including a blossoming, green environment. It is a special beach as it serves as a hatching and nesting habitat of the Olive Ridley turtles, which are an endangered species. The sight of the tiny hatchlings, turtles and crabs makes your experience at the beach an unforgettable one. Kite surfing is another activity popular at this beach because of its shallow depth.

Betalbatim Beach- We have all been lucky enough to witness beautiful sunsets, but the beauty of the sunsets at the Betalbatim Beach is beyond imagination. Located in the south of the Majorda Beach, Betalbatim Beach offers spectacular sunset views, and thus is popularly known as the "Sunset beach of Goa". Not only is it more peaceful than the other beaches, but is also much cleaner. The quiet and secluded location of this beach makes it all the more attractive and inviting.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary- Heading to Goa this season? Then don't forget to set foot in the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary for a close rendezvous with your favorite animals. The smallest yet most popular sanctuary in Goa, it is located in Ponda Taluka in the northeastern part of the city. Contained in a very small area of just 8 Km, the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is covered with moist deciduous forest and evergreen vegetation patches. This little sanctuary proudly houses a Mini Zoo, Rose Garden, Deer Safari Park, Botanical Gardens, Nature Education Centre and Eco-Tourism Cottages within its premises.

Baga Beach- Goa, an endearing paradise of scenic charm, is famous for its mesmerizing beaches all over the world. With glistening sands, sky-high coconut trees, majestic sea waves and delectable sea food, the region has so much to offer. It is blessed with a number of exotic beaches, yet as we think of Goa the first name that comes to the mind is the super-adventurous Baga Beach. Anybody who has had a chance to witness the beauty of Goa will vouch for the fact that Baga beach is for sure the most happening beach in Goa.

Arvalem Caves- Apart from the admirable beaches and waterfalls, Goa is also one of the most sought after destinations for heritage architectures. Goa is an ancient state and so is the architecture found here. A beautiful example of the historical monuments present in Goa is the Arvalem Caves or the "Pandava Caves". Located in the Bicholim town of North Goa, these caves are ancient rock cut caves that give us a chance to steep into the mythological tales. The origin of these caves dates back to the 6th century. 

Arvalem Waterfalls- A thunderous spurt of water beautifully cascading down a rocky terrain of a mountain! This is the picture of the splendorous Arvalem Waterfalls in Goa. Popularly known as the Harvalem Waterfalls, it is located at Arvalem, around 9 kilometers from Bicholim, North Goa. With water falling headlong from a height of 70 meters, it makes for an absolutely breathtaking view.

Palolem Beach- The Palolem Beach is located about 2 Km West of Chaudi, Canacona District of South Goa and is also known as the "Paradise Beach". It was amongst the virgin beaches of Goa which remained secluded from the tourists' eyes until a few years back, but now it is gradually becoming commercialized and developed since tourists have started pouring in. It is the place of glorious sunsets and stunning sunrises with backdrop of Western Ghats situated in Southern Taluka of Canacona. The enthralling Paolem Beach instills in us a feeling of tranquility that is one of the major attribute of this serene Goa beach. 

Goa Churches- Goa churches enjoy their share of popularity. There are several churches in the state owing to the long history of Portuguese rule in Goa. These churches, other than being a place of worship, also make for beautiful pieces of architecture from by gone days. Some of the popular churches in Goa are St. Cathedral Church, St. Francis of Assisi, Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Augustine Church among others. These churches are visited by most of the tourists heading to the state of Goa. 

Arvalam Waterfall- Arvalem Waterfall is located 2 kilometers from the town of Sinquelim in the North of Goa. The 24-feet-high waterfall makes for a beautiful picnic spot. One can have a look at the waterfall from the staircase of the famous Rudreshwar Temple. The government has also constructed a park near the waterfall to help people have a closer look of the fall and appreciate its beauty. 

Aguada Fort- Aguada Fort stands tall as one of the most known representatives of the Goan history. The fort was constructed in 1612 by the Portuguese who were fearing an attack from the Marathas and the Dutch. The fort had a fresh water spring that provided for the water requirements of all those who used to pass through the place. The giant fort served as a crucial point for all the important operations of the Portuguese. 

Chapoli Dam- Located about 40 Km from Margoa, Chapoli Dam is blessed with scenic charm as it lies in a valley which is surrounded by hills. If you are fond of fishing, this eco-tourist spot of Goa, is a place for you.

Mahalaxmi Temple- Mahalaxmi Temple situated in Bandora Village of Goa, is dedicated to goddess Mahalaxmi (Goddess of power and strength). The Temple has a beautifully constructed Chowk, which is its major attraction. The temple constructed as early as 1413 A.D, is visited by tourists all across the country especially during the Navratri, which is celebrated with great pomp and show at the place.

Mangeshi Temple- Mangeshi temple in Goa is an amalgamation of modern and traditional Hindu pieces of architecture. The temple is a dedication to Lord Mangueshi, incarnation of Lord Shiva. Legend has it that Lord Brahma himself consecrated the Linga that is worshiped here. The idol of the presiding deity is taken out in a procession every week on Monday.

Tourist Destinations Near Goa- An excursion can be planned to the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka from the state of Goa. Both these states have a lot to offer to the tourists. The cities like Mumbai and Pune are visited by a lot of people across the country. Mumbai is the home of the Bollywood (largest film industry in India). Pune has a lot of parks, museums and zoos to woo the visitors. Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka is one of the fastest growing cities in India. Mysore is known for its numerous temples including Chamundeshwari Temple.

From gorging on the lip-smacking and mouth-watering Konkan and Goanese cuisine like chicken rechado and xacuti to rock and rave in the night parties by the fire-lit sea beaches, the vast collection of diverse rocky and sand, golden or silver sand beaches spellbinds the tourists with their awe-inspiring scenic beauty.

How To Reach Goa- Goa is one of the most important destinations in India. It is the smallest state in India by area, but is famous for its beaches, churches and architecture. Goa is visited by a huge number of international as well as domestic tourists every year. Goa can be reached conveniently from any part of the country and is well connected by air, rail and road network.

By Air- The Goa International Airport which is also known as Dabolim Airport caters to the entire state of Goa. The airport is located at Dabolim and is around 30 km away from Panjim, the capital city. The airport caters to domestic flights from major cities in India and also caters to international flights. Pre-paid taxis and buses can be easily availed from the airport. By Train

The state of Goa has two rail lines; one is operated the South Western Railway and the other is operated by the Konkan Railway. The main railway station is Madgaon station in Margao. There are other railway stations in the state like Pernem, Thivim, Karmali and Canacona which are also well connected by trains.By Road

Goa is well linked with National Highway Numbers 66, 4A, 366, 566 and 768. Goa has a total of 224 km of national highways, 232 km of state highway and 815 km of district highway.