Goa
Goa Travel
Along
the west coast of India lies a small state, beauty of a place and as live as
can be. Goa - with its pristine beauty and its sublime character intoxicates
the travellers that pass through. It is a gateway to the seas of happiness
witholding waves of contend. If you can't be merry here then you better quit
considering your travel plans and schedules.
Location of Goa Know What is around Goa
Located along the coastal belts of Konkan, Goa is a treasure trove for
tourists. It is one big name in the tourism industry. Goa is the second
smallest state in India (area wise) that lies abutted by the Arabian Sea.
The eastern and southern boundaries are secured by Karnataka state, where as
the state shares its northern borders with Maharashtra state. The western
region stands over the Konkan coastal belts and faces the sea. Sea shores
have given Goa much more than the towering peaks give to the north Indian
states. Beaches are the most attractive and the much prized gifts the state
is endowed with.
Goa Vacations
Goa is a beach paradise. The alluring aquamarine drenched feeling and the
pale white sandy beaches invites quite a crowd. This erstwhile Portuguese
colony has a very distinct identity. The occupation by the foreign state has
left some indelible impressions. Popular culture reveals very lively and
liberal characters. Monuments and historical places adds up to mixed
feelings - Goa is one place that stands far at the edge considering the
popular culture
Vacations in Goa - What to See in Goa
Goa is one of the most visited tourist place in India. This exuberant beach
state lures tourists from all corners of the world. Apart from that, the
state is also famous for its unique heritage and historical places. Pleasant
climate, cosmopolitan culture and its genteel population serve as desserts
after a refreshing vacation as meals. From luxurious resorts to small
taverns, you will find quite an experience at Goa. Some important tourist
destinations in the state include
Old Goa,
Mapusa,
Panjim,
Arambol,
Canacona,
Margao, Marmagao,
Vasco Da Gama,
Ponda.
Goa Beaches
Beaches are the most coveted places in Goa. These salubrious stretches of
land have won great favors for the state. The beaches are amongst the best
in the world. Leisure and facilities are readily available here. Gentle
surf, soft sand shores, resorts, swaying palms and ancient monuments and
more, all contributes to wonderful stay at Goa. Popular beaches at Goa
include
Anjuna Beach,
Baga Beach,
Benaulim Beach,
Bogmalo Beach,
Calangute Beach,
Colva Beach,
Dona Paula Beach,
Varca Beach,
Candolim Beach,
Majorda Beach,
Vagator Beach.
Churches
of Goa
At
Goa you will find some amazing buildings and structures that were erected
during the Portuguese occupation. Amongst the important structures special
reference has been given to churches. A large number of tourists and
travellers find their way to these popular attractions. Other than their
building structure these churches are also famous for historical events
associated with them. Some popular churches in the state are
Church Of Our Lady Rosary,
Convent and Church of St
Francis,
Basilica
De Bom Jesus Church,
Se
Cathedral Church,Convent and Church of the Cross of Miracles, Royal
Chapel of St Anthony, the Chapel of St Catherine, the Church and Convent of
St Monica, The Church of Camelites.
Wildlife of Goa
A part of Sahayadiri ranges fall in the state of Goa. These small hilly
ranges of the Western Ghats homes to a great many species of birds. Moving
away from the hills and towards the Arabian Sea tropical climate takes over.
The warm temperature and the loamy soil helps the vegetation and so does the
low lying hills. These hills are responsible for adequate rainfalls and
forest growth is more spread over here. A mere ten percent of the land area
in Goa constitutes the wildlife reserves. Even though, some exotic bird and
animal species are found in Goa. Important wildlife sanctuaries include
Bhagvan
Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary,
Cotiago Wildlife
Sanctuary,
Salim
Ali Bird Sanctuary,
Bondla Sanctuary,
Netravali
Wildlife Sanctuary.
What To Enjoy in Goa : Tourists Activities Goa
Goa Carnival
Goa Carnival, the most eagerly awaited festival in Goa is celebrated every
year in the month of February for three days and nights. A unique and
exclusive festival to Goa, Goa Carnival was introduced by the Portuguese who
ruled over the state around 500 years. Initially started as a rowdy
celebration by the local people, the Goa Carnival has now crossed the
boundaries of the state and attracts thousands of people from almost all
parts of the country. A number of events epitomizes the festival including
parades with bands, dances and songs with colourful costumes, stage play,
mock battles etc.
Art & Culture
Goa, a cultural bridge between the east and the west, boasts of rich art
and culture. The Portuguese had ruled over Goa from 1510 to 1961 and their
influences are still visible in Goa’s art and culture. Often referred
to as ‘a land of crafts and craftsmen,’ today, Goa is known all
over the world for its arts and crafts. Highlights of the Goan art forms are
bamboo craft, brass metals, woodcarving, seashell craft, wooden lacquer ware
and pappier-mache etc. Apart from these, music, dance and floklore also form
an important part of Goan life. Besides, Goa is also famous for rich culture
and warm hospitality, the glimpses of which you can see everywhere right
from cities to town and churches to beaches.
Goa Cuisine
Any trip to Goa is a culinary experience, perhaps unparalleled along the
western coast up till the God’s Own Country, Kerala in the south. Apart
from delectable local cuisine and delicious seafood, Goa offers the myriad
influences from a number of continents in its cuisine. Some of the most
popular dishes are Pork Vindaloo, Sorpotel and Chicken Xacuti. Sweets also
forms an important part of Goa cuisine, in fact, a wide array of sweets and
flavours will pamper your taste buds.
Goa Cruises
Apart from its serene beaches, Goa’s beautiful rivers and lakes also
attract visitors for some of the world’s finest cruising experience. In
Goa, river cruises and sea cruises are the adventurous way to explore the
far flung areas. River cruises are available in various options such as
Sunset Cruise, Sundown Cruise, Full Moon Cruise, Pleasure Cruise, Dolphin
Fantasy Cruise, Pearl of the Orient and Backwater Thrills. Sea Cruise is
offered by the Super Star Libra, a world-class floating resort operated by
Star Cruises. Super Star Libra offers sea cruises in varied options like
Kadmat Island-Goa Cruise, Kochi-Goa Cruise and Goa Cruise.
Water Sports in Goa
A trip to Goa is incomplete without indulging in some of the water sports.
Boasting of a wonderful coast, Goa offers a range of water sports for the
adventure seekers. An exclusive feature of Goa, water Sports are offered by
the star hotels and a number of private operators. While you are in Goa you
can indulge yourself in water sports like Parasailing, Jet-Skiing,
Water-Skiing, Knee and Wake Boarding, Windsurfing, Speedboat rides,
Catamaran Sailing and Sea fishing.
People &
Lifestyle in Goa
Goa’s population is a mixture of Hindus (65 %), Christians (30 %),
Muslims and several other religions. Hindus are dominant in the talukas
(districts) of Sanguem, Ponda, Satari, Quepem Bicholim, Pernem and Canacona,
while the talukas of Mormugao, Bardez, Salcete and Tiswadi is dominated by
the Christians. Of course, different religions separate Goan people, but Goa’s
identity is far different from any religious boundary. In fact, people of
Goa love to introduce themselves first as Goans and then as Hindu,
Christians, Muslims and others. Goans are also known all over the world for
their unique and relaxed lifestyle. Music and dance are the essential part
of Goans, while in food and drink they love their traditional dishes,
seafood and feni. Fairs, and festivals, nightlife, rave parties are also an
important part of Goa’s life.
Nightlife of Goa
Goa is a state which never sleeps and due to its unique feature it serves
up a variety of things to do at night. Nightlife of Goa attracts people from
cities and towns of the state and neighbouring states. A full-night party in
any of the Goa’s beach shacks is a fine option to drink and dance all
through the night or you may enjoy some of the delectable cuisine in any of
restaurant by the beach. Some of the popular nightlife options in Goa
include a lavish dinner in Panaji, Mapusa, Margao or Vasco, European food in
the sea-side restaurant, rave parties in bars, cruising through the Mandovi
river by night and gambling away the evening in the casinos.
Shopping
A visit to Goa is incomplete unless you bring back some souvenir from this
beach paradise. Shopping in Goa is an exciting affair, you may buy a wide
variety of items from the big city markets or small beach-side markets.
Apart from these, Goa is also known for its flea markets like Anjuna
Wednesday Flea Market and Anjuna Saturday Night Market. A wide range of
items are on offer in these Goan markets such as clothes, shoes, jewellery,
semi-precious stones, flowers, bags, handicrafts, traditional Goan items,
homemade pickles, sweets spices, baked delicacies, fruits, vegetables and
dry fish.
Where to Stay in Goa : Goa Accommodation
Goa, often referred to as the 'beach paradise', draws thousands of tourists
from India as well as different parts of the world. For these tourists Goa
offers plenty of accommodation options including some of the finest resorts
of the world. These resorts, known for their contemporary amenities and warm
hospitality, provide you a comfortable and memorable stay. Moreover, most of
the resorts in Goa have luxury spas, which offer Ayurveda therapies to unite
your body, mind and soul. Far from the hustle and bustle of cities, Goa
resorts take you to a secluded world, where you can relax, relax and relax.
How to Reach Goa
Transportation for Goa
Airlines : Dabolim Airport situated about 30 kms from the
capital city Panjim serves both national and domestic flights. A number of
airline services are available including Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and
Sahara Airlines. These services connect the state with other cities and
states.
Railways : Goa is further connected by the Konkan railways
with the neighbouring cities and states. Major railheads are located in
Margao and Vasco-Da-Gama.
Roadways : Kadamba bus stand, located at Panaji, is the
main bus stand that sees the checking in and out of the long distance buses.
Bus services are also popular means of transportation and commutation within
the cities.
Boat Services : Some vessels operate between Goa and
Mumbai. Besides that one can avail ferries to move into the adjacent
townships.
A Small Snapshot of Goa History
The starting pages of Goan history highlight an era between third century
B.C. to the beginning first century A.D. Goa was then a part of Mauryan
empire. Towards the end of this era mighty emperors from the Deccan started
towards the conquest of Goa. The state consequently fell into the hands of
Satvahanas, who came all the way from Maharashtra. Their supremacy retained
till the coming of the Chalukyas. This scene continued till eighth century
A.D. Following few centuries were more chaotic and power shifted amongst the
Chalukyans, Kadambs and Silharas.
The next great event to surpass the Goan history was the emergence of the
popular Muslim power that extended from north to central India. The state
(Goa) came under Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century A.D. However, the
control over the region soon succumbed and Vijayanagar kings emerged to hold
the reins. They too could not hold the power for long and gave way to
Bahmani Sultans and Adil Shahis.
The conquests to Goa by foreign power started in the 16th century.
Portuguese traders, who had previously landed in Kerala marched towards the
state. The Portuguese in their quest for spice trade reached Goa and seized
the control. From that very moment till 1961 the state was ruled by the
Portuguese. On 12th December 1961, Indian army moved in and seized the
control. Portugal, however, formally agreed to the annexation in the year
1974.
Goa Tour Packages
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Features : A complete 5 Days
tour of Goa, Goa Tour in India takes you to almost each and every
tourist attraction in the state including the popular beaches. The Goa
Tour in India covers all the important destinations of South Goa and
North Goa and provide you an opportunity to enjoy yourself thoroughly.
While you visit the tourist destinations you will also get a chance to
see the Portuguese influence in lifestyle of Goan people |
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Features : A 31 Days tour,
India by Day & Night will take you to the places including Mumbai,
Goa, Delhi, Jaipur, Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, Cochin, Kumarakom and
Mararikulam. Goa is known mainly for it picturesque beaches, but the
India by Day & Night tour package will also provide you an excellent
opportunity to visit the forts, churches, temples and mosques of this
tiny state. |
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Features : On Rajasthan
Heritage & Goa tour you will visit the tourist places that include
Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Dungarpur, Udaipur, Ranakpur, Rohet, Jaisalmer, Sam,
Jodhpur, Jaipur, Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, Delhi and Goa. Of course, at the
end of your hectic tour when you wish to laze, laze and laze, the Goan
Beaches come as a perfect option for you. These are the places where you
can surrender yourself completely to mother nature. |
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Features : Best of South
India provides you a wonderful opportunity to visit the popular tourist
destinations including Mumbai, Goa, Badami, Hampi, Chikmangalur,
Halebid, Belur, Hassan, Sharavan Belegola, Mysore, Cochin, Kumarakom and
Trivandrum. In Goa, the beach Paradise, visit the serene beaches, where
you can enjoy food and drink alongwith plenty of leisure activities. |
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