Goa India

Goa - the Land Of Beaches

Goa called as 'Pearl of the Orient' or a 'Tourist Paradise' is the smallest state of India, in terms of area. The state of Goa is located on the west coast of India, in the coastal region known as Konkan. It is bounded by the state of Maharashtra, Karnataka and the Arabian sea. The Portuguese merchants first landed the historical region in 16th century. The Portuguese colony existed here for about 450 years. The evergreen destination of Goa is famous for its beautiful blue beaches, silvery sands, diversified flora and fauna, rich cultural heritage, impressive churches and magnificent temples. Goa is also famous for its World Heritage Architecture that includes the Bom Jesus Basilica.

People of Goa

Anjuna Beach, GoaAs the state has remain the meeting point of different races, religions and cultures for many centuries, the Goan people lead a multi-hued and distinct lifestyle quite different from the rest of the country. The Hindu and Catholic make up the major portion of the entire population while Muslim and people of other religions also live here. Despite the religious differences the people are famous for their peaceful, warm and friendly nature.

Festivals of Goa

Goa is the land in which people of different religions live, but their warm and tolerant nature allows them to celebrate and enjoy the festivals of various religions with equal enthusiasm. The state is known for its Indo-Latin festivals like famous carnivals. The Hindus celebrate the festival of Shigmo and Shivaratrai.

Dishes of Goa

The cuisine of Goa is a combination of different cultures. Fish and rice is the staple food is Goa, favourite both among the Hindus and Catholics. In addition to tandoori, rice and dal, the cuisine include chourisso (pickled pig's liver cooked in vinegar with tamarind) & vindalho (spicy pork). The coconut sauces are favourite of Goans.

Music and Dance of Goa

Goa is the land of highly talented and artistic people the music flows in their blood. Goan folklore include folk songs, dances, music, visual arts and folk tales rich in content & variety. Besides the classical classical music and dance various modern forms have evolved.

Attractions in Goa

Wildlife in Goa Goa is rich in varied and vibrant wildlife, which is a major attractions for nature lovers, bird watchers or wildlife enthusiasts. The state has six wildlife sanctuaries at Bondla, Mollem (Bhagwan Mahavir sanctuary), Cotigao, Chorao Island (Salim Ali bird sanctuary) Madei, Netravali and Mollem national park.

Churches of Goa Church and convent of St Francis of Assisi in Old Goa IndiaGoa is dotted with several churches, which are famous for outstanding Christian architecture. Most of the churches dating back to 16th and early 17th centuries display a tiered frontispiece and are framed with columns and pilasters.

Monuments of Goa Goa has a rich collection of forts, churches and temples. The monuments are famous for its architecture. The state houses some of the Old Portuguese forts on the sea coast. The forts mostly in the state of preservation are important places to visit. The most important among them is the fort at Chapora. One of fort at Terekhol has been converted into a hotel.

Mosques in Goa As the state is mostly inhabited by Hindus and Chirstian, but it also houses several mosques, the most famous is Safa Masjid. The Masjid built in 1560, by Ibrahim Adil Shah of Bijapur is the biggest of the 27 mosques in Ponda taluka. Another famous masjid is the Jama Masjid, 26 Kms from Margao at Sanguem.

Temples of Goa The state has many temples, each famous for its distinct and unique feature. As Portuguese destroyed many temples, but few of them survived the most popular is the Saraswati Hindu Temple.

Goa Carnival The Carnival celebrated every year during the month of February, is a major attraction. During the festival the whole Goa celebrate the party for three days continuously. A large number of tourist visit Goa during the carnival to join the celebration.

Water Sports in Goa Water scooter sport at Andolim beach in North Goa IndiaThe Goa beaches offer many water sports, the most famous among them is windsurfing. Windsurfing in Goa is simple, because the surf boards are available on hire.

Accessibility to Goa

Goa is well connected by air, rail and road links.

By Air : The Goa airport has the flights from from Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Cochin and Trivandrum etc.

By Rail : The railhead in Goa is connected to major cities of the country. Trains from Mumbai (490 Kms), Bangalore (430 Kms) and Delhi (1874 Kms) are available for Goa. By Road : Goa is situated on the main highway. Buses from Mumbai and other cities run to Goa.

Accommodation in Goa

Goa has many hotels range from star to budget hotels cater to the needs of visitors. Most of the hotels are located close to the the airport. The hotels well-equipped with fine facilities and efficient services offer pleasant stay to tourists

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