About Goa (Goa Information)

About Goa :
Goa, one of the small states of India, is situated in the Sahayadri ranges of the Western Ghats. The state land beginning from Tiracol in the north to Palolem in the south, is bounded by the states of Maharashtra to the north, Karnataka to the east and south and the Arabian Sea on the west. Panaji is the capital city, while Vasco-da-Gama is the largest town of the state. Often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Orient', Goa is a true 'Tourist's Paradise'. Goa remained a Portuguese colony since the arrival of Portuguese merchants in the 16th century, till 1961. The lovely beaches and churches of Goa still have the aroma of Portuguese. Boasts of some of the most superb beaches of India, Goa is a perfect place to spend vacations. Goan culture is a combination of Indian and European style, the people of the state lead a distinct lifestyle, which is different from other regions of India. Goa has the richness of folk culture, which keeps the people of the state in festive mood throughout the year.

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Climate :
Goa is located in the tropical zone, close to the Arabian Sea, the climate of the region is hot and humid. May- June are the hottest months when the temperature soars up to 35°C. Winter season is somewhat short which falls between mid-December and February, the temperature drops to a minimum of 19°C in winter. The ideal time to visit Goa is September to March.


Major Attractions :
» Panaji (Panjim) - Panaji, the capital city of Goa, was originally the former capital of old Goa. Located on the bank of the Mandovi river, this small charming place is a must visit in Goa. Pajani houses some wonderful old buildings and churches, dating to a time before colonization. The Church of the Immaculate Conception, built in 1541 is the major attraction here. Other attractions include the Secretariat and the Institute Menezes Braganza etc.

» Dona Paula - Just 7 kms away from Panaji, this small town has several resorts. The small palm fringed beach is an ideal place for leisurely activities.

» Old Goa - The Old Goa is situated at a distance of 8 kms from Panaji. Old Goa was the State Capital until 1843, when it was moved to Panaji. Dotted with imposing churches and cathedrals, the region is regarded as the heart of Goa. The old Portuguese churches are the main attraction here, which include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Cathedral, Church of St. Cajetan and Church of St Francis of Assisi.

» Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery - The Archaeological Museum and Potrait Gallery is located at the Convent of St. Francis of Assisi, Old Goa. The museum has the collection of sculptures, depicting the period before the arrival of Portuguese. It is open 1000 - 1200 hrs and 1200 - 1700 every day except Fridays.

» Anjuna Flea Market - Anjuna Flea Market is a commercial market with a wide range of goods on sale. Traders from almost all parts of India, come here to sell their wares like colourful elaborately woven clothes, silver and pappier mache boxes and several other items. If you are not planning to shop, you can enjoy the performances of musicians and snake charmers.

» Goa Beaches - As Goa is called the beach capital of India, it houses several beautiful beaches. Most famous beaches of Goa are Arambol Beach, Anjuna Beach, Colva Beach, Vagator Beach, Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, Bogmalo Beach and Palolem Beach.

» Goa Carnival - Celebrated annually during the month of February, the Goa Carnival is the main festival of the state. The three-day festival is not only celebrated by local people but they are joined by a large number of tourists from India and world.

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How to reach Goa :
» By Air - Dabolim airport, 29 kms from Panaji is an international airport. The airlines operate daily flights from Goa to Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai etc.

» By Rail - Margao and Vasco-da-Gama are the two major railheads of Goa. These stations are connected by train with Mumbai, Delh, Bangalore, Belgaum, Hospet and Hyderabad etc.

» By Road - National Highway 17 A connects Goa with the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. Regular buses are available from Mumbai and other nearby places to Goa.


Where to Stay :
The hotels in Goa are fantastic options to stay, as they offer plenty of accommodation options to the visitors. One can chose from a wide variety of hotels range from standard, luxury to budget hotels, according to one's budget and need.