Goa Tours & Travel

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 splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. Fun, frolic and feni are the three f-words that rule the roost in goa. The tiny emerald land on the west coast of India sandwiched between the borders of Maharashtra and Karnataka, is a fun-lover`s ultimate destination. Once a Portuguese colony, Goa still bears vestiges of its erstwhile colonial masters - in the names of the places, in the surnames of its people and in its spiritual inclination.

Best Time to Visit
During peak monsoon season between Mid July to September or peak winters in the months between November to Mid February.

Weather
Moderate climate with negligible variations throughout the year. May is hottest month of the year while January-February are the coldest. Monsoon shower this bewitching place from Mid July to September.

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.

Apart from land and water sports, a whole range of other activities will keep you hooked. A land of surprises, at every corner lurks a secret getaway waiting just for you. It could be anything from bird watching to dolphin or crocodile spotting trip. Goa is a bird watcher's paradise literally, you will not spot many in the towns but an early morning walk to one of the lake sides will reveal much of the secret habitats of birds to you. Otherwise also you can visit Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorao Island. Dolphin and crocodile spotting trips are also very famous in Goa. Some of the prominent beaches which have operators providing this activity are Candolim, Calangute and Palolim.

The excellent local handicrafts of Goa are easily the most popular souvenir items and include brassware, terracotta, shell work, crochet, carved furniture, bamboo work, papier-mache, etc. These are available in the Government Emporia and also at shops and stalls near the popular tourist spots. Another item which is on the list of every traveller to Goa is a pack of the famed cashew nuts. These are available practically everywhere. There are shops specialising in selling only cashewnuts. The nuts are available in a wide variety of tastes ranging from plain, salted and masala. The prices vary based on the quality and flavour. There are also many fascinating options in the lifestyle and fashion shops which have come up in recent times. Some of these are located in fabulous old Goan houses which have been painstakingly restored. These shops make the best selections in home styling and fashion available to the tourists at quite reasonable prices.

By Air
Flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kochi, Kozhikode, Pune and Agatti ply towards Goa by Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Sahara. Panaji Airport is half an hour drive from main city. Goa Tourism Corporation has its office near the baggage centre on airport from where you can book any hotel in the city at genuine rates. Pre-paid taxi counter is also available at the airport from where you can hire a taxi to your hotel at government rates.

By Rail
The most important railhead in Goa is Madgaon which is also known as Margao. A number of small stations are dot this place. Konkan Railways runs various trains that enroute Goa from distant places like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kochi etc. Prepaid taxi booth are situated outside the railway station to book a cab to your hotel. Super fast trains like Rajdhani stops at Madgaon Railway Station only.

By Road
The main National Highways that cross Goa-4A, 17 and 17 A lead to Goa. Other major cities from Panaji are located at a distance of: Mumbai(594km), Belgaum(154km), Bangalore(632km), Pune(471), Ratnagiri(236km). State Transport buses as well as private coaches are available here on to help you make a comfortable journey.