Globally famous for its superb tourism and attractions, Goa is the ultimate destination for fun lovers. Popularly known as “Pearl of the Orient” “Rome of East” and “Tourist Paradise” this beautiful state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan. The pristine beaches, exotic wildlife sanctuaries, scenic beauty and the architectural splendors of its temples, churches and colonial buildings have made Goa a firm favorite with travelers around the world. The three F, fun, frolic and feni and three S, sand, surf and sea are synonyms with Goa and these words rule the roost in Goa. Once a Portuguese colony, Goa still bears remnants of its erstwhile colonial masters - in the names of the places, in the surnames of its people and in its spiritual inclination. Well visit this tiny but amazingly beautiful state of Goa and you will surely get awe-struck with its beauty which is beyond verbal and visual description.
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 prevails in Goa with changes of season takes place throughout the year. May is hottest month of the year while January and February are the coldest. Monsoon shower this beautiful beach state of India 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.
Main Attractions
Prime & Pristine Beaches of Goa
- Anjuna Beach
- Calangute Beach
- Baga Beach
- Candolim Beach
- Benaulim Beach
- DonaPaula Beach
- Colva Beach
- Palolem Beach
- Vagator Beach
Other Activities
Apart from fascinating attractions and fun –filled 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. You also have wonderful opportunity to visit Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorao Island, India’s favored bird sanctuary. Dolphin and crocodile spotting trips are also very famous in Goa. Some of the prominent beaches which have operators providing this activity are Calangute, Candolim and Palolem.
Shopping
Goa is shopper’s paradise. 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-mâché, 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 traveler to Goa is a pack of the famed cashew nuts. These are available practically everywhere. There are shops specializing in selling only cashew nuts. The nuts are available in a wide variety of tastes ranging from plain, salted and masala. The prices vary based on the quality and flavors. 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 meticulously restored. These shops make the best selections in home styling and fashion available to the tourists at quite reasonable prices.
How to Reach
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 booths 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
