Goa

Overview

Goa the place that needs no introduction- Goa is one of the most popular tourist attractions of India. It is also known as Pearl of the Orient. It is popular for its beautiful beaches, Gothic churches, age-old ruins, coconut groves, intoxicating Feni. Also, interesting to know, a Wax Museum based on the heritage, culture and history of India has opened up recently in old Goa. Goa, famous for its parties and music, in contrast, is an excellent place for people seeking solitude.

In 1510, Goa had been conquered by the Portuguese, and remained as a Portugal Colony for almost about four centuries. Even now, traces of Portugal architecture and cuisine are seen in Goan buildings and food.

Tourist Attractions

Goa has a unique texture of forts, churches, temples and much more. But undoubtedly, it is best known for its beaches.

Baga Beach

Baga, is the perfect getaway for the people seeking quiet and peace. Enriched with brown sand, Baga is a fishing beach is the hub of foreign tourists who sunbathe under the Sun, while the palm groves swing along the wind.

Anjuna Beach in Goa

One could call Anjuna beach as the freak capital of the world. Its signatories - the rave parties as well as the Wednesday Flea market are very popular. Do not miss the Curlie's, situated at the end of this beach, where people come to chill and enjoy the music

Colva and Benaulim Beach in Goa

One could say that Colva and Benaulim are two beautiful beaches, which are somewhat pristine. Colva beach is said to be one of the longest beaches in the world, whereas Benaulim beach is a beach town.

Mapusa Beach

Mapusa beach, popular as a market center because of the ancient festivals which which used to be organized in the honor of the God Kanakeshwar Baba, who worships at the Bodhgeshwar Temple. One should not miss the weekly Friday market, which is a galore of souvenirs and fascinating wooden articles and freshly baked bread. It is a typically Goan place, with fruit, fish, veggies and other fresh produce which is sold alongside the tourist goods.

Chapora and Vegator Beaches of Goa

Chapora and Vagator are quiet fishing villages where the sea takes a turn from being aquamarine to becoming emerald green. Also, marked by a 500 years old Portuguese fort, leaves all tourists astonished.

Dudhsagar and Arvalem Waterfall in Goa

The Dudhsagar and Arvalem waterfalls are a famous tourist attraction. It is situated 60 km away from Panaji.

Basilica of Bom Jesus of Goa

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the World Heritage Monuments and is the dwelling place for the remains of St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa, in a glass coffin which is airtight, inside a silver casket.

The St. Cathedral Church of Goa

The St. Cathedral church is dedicated to St. Catherine, whose Feast Day was marked by the conquering of Goa by Alphonso de Albuquerque.

The Other famous churches of Goa are the Church of Our Lady of Rosary, Church of St. Cajatan, and that of the Cathedrals of Saint Catherine and Saint Francis of Assisi, the, the church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception , Church of the Three Magi Kings, the Reis Magos Church and many more.

Excursions in Goa

Goa has exquisite excursion sites situated close by are:

1. Mayem Lake
   The Mayem Lake is an ideal getaway for the local Goan population marked by people coming for picnics.
2. Wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa
   The wildlife sanctuaries in Goa are blessed with a peaceful atmosphere and helpful tourist facilities. The biggest of the three sanctuaries in Goa is the Molem Wildlife Sanctuary. Also, the Mini Zoo, Bondla  (famous for its gardens) and deer park are worth a visit. Last but not the least, Dandeli situated on the Goa-Karnataka border is a beautiful landscape, apart from being a treasure of  rich flora and fauna.

Temple of the Tambdi Surla

One of the few religious buildings that could survive Portugese onslaught is he Temple of Tambdi Surla.