Goa Tourism

 Goa Tourism

Goa Tourism 

Goa is one of the most favorite destination among Indian tourists due to its pristine beaches. Dotted with hundreds of impressive beaches in Goa, the incredible coastline of more than 100 km offers beautiful views and serenity where tourists enjoy in the sun

Lying on the western coast, Goa is India's smallest state and unlike any other, known for its endless beaches, stellar nightlife, eclectic seafood, world-heritage listed architecture. Spread across just 3,702 km, Goa lies in the Konkan region. It is a far cry from the hippie haven or a beach getaway, and one of the only few destinations that is open 24x7. The laid-backness of Goa attracts as many international tourists as it does Indians, or even more so.

The Goans are quite friendly towards tourists and celebrate many festivals throughout the year, the most famous being the New Year and Goa Carnival. While the seafood is excellent, Goa has one of the best nightlife in India with trendy bars, beach shacks, elegant cafes and many clubs and discotheques. Thanks to lower alcohol prices in the state, Goa is also great for younger tourists with relatively tighter pockets.

Goa offers various opportunities to have an action-packed and fun-filled vacation. Be it honeymoon for newly wed couples, a relaxing family vacation, a vacation with friends, chilling out on the beautiful sandy beaches under the pleasant sun, visiting the old and heritage sites, go for an evening cruise — glittery, crowded and noisy. For the newly married couples, Goa has peaceful and serene beaches where one can enjoy complete privacy and togetherness.

The Goanese flavour of variety of landscape is also to be enjoyed in the various Heritage Sites that are recognized by the entire world as exotic and charming and definitely worth visiting. One such Heritage site is the Reis Magos Fort that is located about in North Panaji. The majestic Reis Magos Fort is located on the northern bank of Mandovi River across to the city of Panaji in North Goa. Another pristine Heritage Sight is the Se Cathedral. It is one of the biggest Churches in the whole of Asia and is dedicated to St Catherine. Shri Mangueshi Temple or the Mangeshi Temple is a major Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Another prominent landmark is the majestic Aguada Fort that was built with the purpose of protecting Goa from the attacks of the Dutch and the Marathas by preventing them from entering the Mandovi River.

Goa not only attracts the visitors for its fun-loving atmosphere, but it is also thronged by visitors who are interested to know its history and love to explore its rich heritage. The popular churches of Goa are must-visit sites for every tourist. Some tourists visit such religious places for spirituality while others just love to explore such sites. Well, whatever the reason is, you must visit top  churches in Goa while spending your vacation in this party land.

Photo courtesy Google

    Chapel of St. Francis Xavier.

    Church of St. Cajetan.

    Catholic Church of St. Francis Assiss.     

    Basilica of Bom Jesus. 

    Se Cathedral.                                             

    Immaculate Conception Church.    

Things to know before Goa Tour. 

 1. Drugs are illegal in Goa though widely available. Keep in mind that purchasing and carrying drugs is fraught with danger and can lead to fine and imprisonment 

2. Dial 108 in case of emergency. To connect to police (100), fire brigade (101) and ambulance (102) can be dialled 

3 .While visiting churches in Goa, cover your legs and shoulders. Avoid beachwear in religious places 

4 . If you choose to visit Goa during the summer, be sure to take special care of your skin. The heat can cause sunburns and heat strokes for many, and it is best to stay indoors or out of direct sunlight during the afternoons. Using sunscreen is also advisable

5.Avoid walking along dimly lit or unlit deserted narrow road beach areas alone at night

6. Avoid wearing a bikini or skimpy clothes outside the resort area. 

7.Free wifi is common in beach shacks, nightclubs and other eateries. Ask for the password.

8.Smoking is banned at many (not all) restaurants though open-air eateries and beach shacks are mostly okay with it. It would be prudent to confirm before smoking in public places.

      

The Best Resorts in Goa

We cover our favourite places to stay below, but if you’re in a hurry, here are some of our favourite resorts and boutique accommodations in Goa:

• Yab Yum Resort, Ashwem Beach (North Goa) – We love the tranquility, eco-friendliness and quiet vibes at this lesser known resort . 
• Anahata Retreat, Ashwem Beach (North Goa) – Also on Ashwem beach, Anahata is a beautiful retreat, built from reclaimed materials.
• Turiya Boutique Villa, Canacona (South Goa) This beautiful and intimate villa is set in a quiet, out of the way corner of Canacona for easy access to Agonda & Palolem beaches.
• Shunya Noi Varo, Siolim (North Goa) a beautifully restored villa, nestled along Goa’s backwaters near Panjim.
•  Casa da Graça, near Panjim (North Goa), another beautifully restored.
•  Portuguese villa, overlooking the Zuari river.
• La Mangrove, (South Goa) Chic “eco tipis” tucked away in the very south of Goa. 
• Beaches In Goa
• Despite being the smallest state in India, Goa is synonymous to many captivating things that are best showcase of a life without stress and worries. The multitude of beaches in Goa offer a range of activities such as beautiful walks along the palm fringed shores sprawled with unique shells and intriguing boat rides. There are range of beach huts where tourist can stay in and restaurants in which one can taste local and delicious sea food. There are numerous beaches in the Goa but the beach that is perfect for you will fully depend upon the kind of experience you want to have. Some of the popular beaches of Goa can be named as Arambol, Agonda, Anjuna and Vagator, Calangute, Candolim, Cavelossim, Colva, Dona Paula - a popular beach. Palolem, Sinquierem, Bogomolo - a beautiful and serene beach near Vasco Da Gama.

• Wildlife sanctuaries.

  Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife, Sanctuary,Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Mollem National Park, Bondla wild life Forest, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, are some of the famous wild life centuries.

  Monuments & Forts 

  Chapora Fort, Fort Aguada, Teracol Fort, Reis Magos Fort, Mormugao Fort, Rachol Fort, Naroa Fort, Corjuem Fort,Cabo De Rama Fort in Goa.

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• Food in Goa has variety and several options, which can clearly be termed has fusion foods. When in Goa, do not miss the local staple delicacies including fruit rice and fish curries. Goan food is known for its different flavors. Sea-food, prepared from freshest pf catches, is another item that is also not be missed. Food of this beach state is also an important display of its vibrant culture.

  Goa was a Portuguese colony till 1961 and this can still be felt in air, mannerism, architecture and everything else including food. When Indian and Portuguese cooking styles are clubbed with aromatic spices, the result is finger-licking food.

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• Scenic beauty

  Goa has number of other scenic options. One such attraction is Waterfall. Goa lies between Sahyadri hills and Arabian Sea. Goa is full of beautiful springs, lakes, and waterfalls. While traveling to these places one gets to see the natural beauty of Goa. Dudhsagar Water Falls.

•  Mayem Lake, Arvalem Waterfall, Kuskem Waterfall are some of the famous water falls in Goa.

• Impact of tourism in Goa

  • It helps in creating job opportunities and in the development of economy.
  • Most of the rich and famous metropolises are investing in Goa which has pushed up land prices and has created overcrowding.
  • Garbage is one of the problem in Goa and there is no proper infrastructure to deal with it. Tourist places are piled up with garbage because of the increased number of tourist in Goa. As a result Goa is facing a major problem of solid waste management.
  • Most of the tourist prefers to visit places in the North which has resulted in the exceeding carrying capacity. Goa’s tourism belt is getting overcrowded.
  • Overexploitation of beaches due to the tourism related activities. Infrastructure.
• Food in Goa.
• Food in Goa has variety and several options, which can clearly be termed has fusion foods. When in Goa, do not miss the local staple delicacies including fruit rice and fish curries. Goan food is known for its different flavors. Sea-food, prepared from freshest pf catches, is another item that is also not be missed. Food of this beach state is also an important display of its vibrant culture.

• Goa was a Portuguese colony till 1961 and this can still be felt in air, mannerism, architecture and everything else including food. When Indian and Portuguese cooking styles are clubbed with aromatic spices, the result is finger-licking food.

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Monsoon Magic In Goa

 The onset of Monsoon in the Konkan region is mid July to mid September. The rains are intense, unrelenting, heavy, stormy, disrupting normal life many times. Power failure, risky and choppy waters of the Arabian Sea, slippery cliffs, wet sand, low visibility and risk of driving become extremely likely. Hence the vacation season of Goa is the school summer holidays and the winter months, specially the Christmas and New Year period. The summers are not ideal to holiday there because of extremely high temperatures while the happening season is post - monsoon till the New Year. However, there is a group of visitors / travellers who prefer the monsoons in Goa due to a variety of reasons which are as follows. 

Why Go to Goa In The Off Season - Monsoon ?

1. Love of water, waterfalls and rain.

2. Negligible traffic at all tourist points, hotels, restaurants, clubs etc.

3. Cheaper accommodation, at almost 50 % off.

4. Cheaper air fares with great offers and discounts.

5. Better service from the hospitality industry as they have lesser guests to attend.

6. Enjoy the konkan monsoon at its full glory.

7. Empty beaches to walk, stroll, take in the beauty of the Arabian Sea and perfect for clicking pictures.

8. All services at much reduced prices be it cabs, food, drinks, club tickets etc.

9. Peace and quiet for those who prefer to enjoy nature with a select few loved ones. 

10. Number of events are arranged in these monsoon months.

11. Explore the quaint konkani villages and try out the local cuisine.

12. Visit the majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls.

13. Visit the Spice Gardens, buy fresh spices and oils.  

14. Go River Rafting, Wildlife Safari Tours, Long Drive in the Ghats, Nature walks and treks. 

15. Luxury Cruise trip in the Mando river.

16. Participate in many local Goan festivals and events.

17. Lush Konkan greenery as far as the eye can see.

18. Bonfires on the empty beaches. 

    
    
    

Where To Stay according to the location of the Beaches 

1. North Goa Beaches

 Baga, Calangute, Candolim, Anjuna, Vagator, and Ashwem. 

2. South Goa Beaches 

Palolem, Colva, Cavelossim, Benaulim, and Agonda. 

North Goa has more activity, night life, crowd and hotels, shacks open all year round.

South Goa is very quiet, full of peace and tranquility

Monsoon Festivals Of Goa 

1. 13 June -Feast of St. Anthony 

2.  24 June - Sao Joao Feast of St. John the Baptist  

3.  Beach Side Party In June,

4. 2nd or 3rd week of July -Chikhal Kalo 

5. 29 June  Feast of Saint Peter and Paul - The locals build rafts and sail on Goa rivers, singing and playing songs.

6. 29 th July - Touxeachem Fest, Santana Church or the Church of St Anne 

7. 15 August - Patolleanchem Feast  organised by The Socorro Socio-Art and Cultural Association 

8. 20 August - World Goa Day

9. Last Saturday of August - Bonderam Festival 

Festivals in Goa are full of life, exuberance, vibrant colours, dance, music, parades, fancy dress get ups, traditional floats, live music performances, authentic Goan cuisine, Boating, exhibitions.

However there might be a few Disadvantages of a monsoon trip to Goa.

• Many night clubs, hotels, eateries and beaches remain closed due to it being the Off - Season.

• Not many water and adventure sports are possible due to the risk factor.

• Less crowds and fun activities that are available during peak season times.

• Disruption in life due to thunderstorms.

• Swimming and spending time on the beach might not be possible due to the violent, choppy waters of the Arabian Sea.

• Limited choice in accommodation and food choices.

• Stormy rains might impact going outdoors and limit the guest to stay safe and secure indoors. 

As with everything in life, a trip to Goa in the monsoons might be full of pros and cons and the adventurous travel has to decide which side of the balance is heavier and plan accordingly.

Images - Courtesy www.istockphoto.com

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Goa - The Don't s Vs. The Do's

 To say that Goa is sure to be in the top ten holiday places to visit in India would be stating the obvious. Goa is the stereotypical, quintessential vacation destination for not only the rich and famous, but the average middle class traveller too. Apart from the fact that it is also one of the top preferred places by International tourists, who find the tropical climate and the cultural scene irresistible.

Much has been written about the things to do, what to eat, where to stay ( North Goa Vs. South Goa ), what events and festivals to attend, where to party, how to have the most of your time in Goa.

However, the question remains as What not to do in Goa; in other words, the mistakes to avoid on the trip you have been planning and looking forward to all year.

Let's see the Don'ts :-

1. Go only to the famous beaches 

Everyone who has been to Goa or is planning it's itinerary is sure to add the following beaches in the must-visit list as they are hot, happening and popular - Agonda Beach, Anjuna Beach, Baga, Benaulim, Candolim, Calangute, Colva, Cavelossim, Dona Paula, Galgibaga, Morjim, Mobor, Miramar, Sinquerim, Pablum.

But don't forget to add the off-beat and lesser known ones, though just as beautiful and perhaps more attractive for the traveller preferring the road less travelled. These include Butterfly Beach, Betul Beach, Galgibag, Kalacha, Kakolem, Siridao, Velsao, Vainguinim.

2. Ditch the offbeat places 

Visit the offbeat places like the backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries, the ghats and the caves - 

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Butterfly Conservatory, Devil's Canyon, Rivona Caves, Arvalem Caves, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Pequeno Bat Islands, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Todo Waterfalls, Spice Plantations, Goan Backwaters, Cabo de Rama etc.

3. Miss out on the local cuisine

Goan cuisine consists of mainly Konkani food along with a few Portuguese and Catholic influences. Don't just stick to the tried and tested north or south Indian fare. Give your taste buds a change and a chance to appreciate the local cuisine especially the seafood ( Of course, not the vegetarian tourists ). There are innumerable shacks along the beaches to choose from as also the top-rated restaurants and 5 star eateries.

4. Not mingle with the locals

Don't just sit around in the resort or the hotel with your family or group. Go out and meet new people, most importantly the locals who would make for great guides regarding the offbeat things to see and do.

5. Miss out on the local festivals and events

Goans are big on celebrations, be it their festivals, occasions, heritage, culturally significant days. Goa is not only about Christmas, New Year, Music fests, Sao Joao Festival, Carnival, Feast of Saint Francis Xavier. 

There are so many more to mingle in and enjoy - 

Dahi Handi, Hanuman Jayanti, Buddha Purnima,

Brahmotsavam at Brahma-Carambolim,

Jayanchi Pooja of Mardol, Celebration of Nave in Mayem, Vaingini and Bicholim, Datta Jayanti, Jagor - A traditional Gawda folk drama, Dhalo, Bicholim celebrated 'Navo Somar, Harvest Feast of Poinguinim and Loliye, Aaitar Poojan-Sun worship, Anant Chaturdashi, Shigmo to name a few. 

Basically, Go to Goa and rather than be a regular tourist, try to be more open to adventure and new experiences. Follow the Do's as well as the Don'ts

Images - www.goaexperience.co.uk

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Goa - A brief History

 History of Goa:

History of Goa

In ancient literature, Goa was known by many names, such as Gomanchala, Gopakapattana, Gopakapattam, Gopakapuri, Govapuri, Govem, and Gomantak. Other historical names for Goa are Sindapur, Sandabur, and Mahassapatam.

The history of Goa dates back to prehistoric times, though the present-day state of Goa was only established as recently as 1987. ... The Portuguese rule lasted for about 450 years, and heavily influenced Goan culture, cuisine, and architecture. In 1961, the Indian Army invaded and annexed Goa after a 36 hour battle.

Goa was the first territorial possession of the Portuguese in Asia. Albuquerque and his successors left almost untouched the customs and constitutions of the 30 village.

It was founded in 1543 and remained in Portuguese hands until 1961, when the territory was lost to India. Vasco da Gama, 1st Count of Vidigueira was the first European to reach India by sea.

It was ruled by the Kadamba dynasty from the 2nd century ce to 1312 and by Muslim invaders of the Deccan from 1312 to 1367. The city was then annexed by the Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagar and was later conquered by the Bahmanī sultanate, which founded Old Goa on the island in 1440.

Goa – The Name – In the later Vedic period (c.1000-500 BC) when the Hindu epic “Mahabharata” was written, Goa has been referred to with the Sanskrit name “Gomantak”, a word with many meanings , signifying mostly a fertile land; but however, it is the Portuguese who gave Goa its name. Before they arrived on the scene, Goa, or Gove or Gowapura, was the name only of the port town near the mouth of the Mandovi River. This was also the same site on which the Portuguese later built their capital, today’s Old Goa.

Goa area were called “Sastikars” because they settled in the eight villages of Sasti taluka. Today’s Salcete taluka derives its name from the Sanskrit word “Sassast” meaning the number 66, Tiswadi derived from the Sanskrit word for the number 30, and Bardesh/Bardez derived from the Sanskrit word for the number 12. Their settlements called as Agraharas set the pace for agriculture and development in the area in partnership with the local indigenous people, the Kumbhis. The earliest “Matha” of the Saraswat community was the “Kavle Math” founded in 740 AD and established at Kushasthali near Keloshi in Goa. This Math was subsequently destroyed by the Portuguese in 1564 but the tradition continued on elsewhere.

The Muslim era – The invasion of Goa by the Bahamini Kingdom in 1350 brought about complete destruction to Goa, its temples and its institutions.

The end of the first period of the Bahamini rule was following their defeat by the the Hindu Empire of Vijayanagar (14-15th century AD). The Bahaminis returned again in 1470 and won and with that victory, Goa became a part of the Muslim Bahmani Kingdom of the Deccan (15th century). The Bahaminis created a new city to facilitate trade on the northern banks of the river Mandovi, a city they called Ela. In 1492, the Bahmani Kingdom split into five kingdoms, namely Bidar, Berar, Ahmadnagar, Golconda and Bijapur. One of the kingdoms namely Bijapur (which was the capital of the territory) included Goa and was ruled by Sultan Yusuf Adil Shah Khan.

Portuguese expansion was rather different from their initial conquests. By the time these territories were added, their attitude had changed and their zeal for religious conversions had died down. In a strange quirk of fate they banned the order of Jesuits in 1759, because they believed them to be puppets of the pope in Rome. By 1835, all religious orders were banned, and the Hindu majority were granted the freedom to practice their religion. As a result, the “New Conquests” retained their Hindu identity, a characteristic feature that persists even today, and this is also why there is a religious/cultural/language or dialect difference existing in Goa .

The Christianity in Goa: The Portuguese introduced Christianity to Goa. One of Vasco da Gama’s goals in finding the sea route to India was to find new Christians. Upon landing at Calicut in 1498 he was surprised to find a thriving Christian community.

The next group that was more successful in propagating Christianity was the Franciscans, who arrived in Goa in 1517. 

The most successful group to arrive soon after were the Jesuits of the newly formed Society of Jesus. With the arrival of St. Francis Xavier S.J., one of its founders, the activity of the Jesuits went into overdrive. Goa became the base for Fr. Francis Xavier’s voyages to the east. 

The Portuguese also implemented the compulsory learning of the Portuguese Language under the Viceroy, Count of Alvor ( 1681-1686).

The Portuguese of Goa has a big history which will see in my next blog.

 

Best Five places Of South Goa.

 South Goa is one of the Disricts of Goa. It is famous for natural beaches,temples,water falls, hill sports,paddy fields and Coconut groves and many more things . 

Lets Check on five best places to visit in South Goa.

1.Palolem Beach 

  
Palolem Beach :  Palolema Beach is famous for scenic view and party vibes. Many people come here to enjoy waer sports and to enjoy beach culture.

 If you want to stay away from activities and want to spend some quality time,then you can book a Shack. This beach will always be enjoyable to you and your loved ones in all way. 

2.Agonda Beach-

If you continue driving towards Panaji from Palolem, the next beach is Agonda. It’s long and lonely, fringed with palms and casuarinas and dominated by a large hill to the south.Agonda Beach is a carpet of white sands dotted with colourful shacks giving the authentic Goan vibes.

3.Benaulim-The bliss for seafood.

  

The town is like the feather in the hat of South Goa’s coastline as it comprises a beautiful beach fringed by swaying palms and coconut trees. Benaulim is also popular in all of South Goa for its soul-saving seafood.The highlights of this place are seafood and dolphin sightseeing.

4.Rivona-Mysterious and sublime.

Located in the Sanguem taluka, Rivona is a hub of culture, history and architecture. If you want to experience something different than scenic beaches, Rivona is a place to be. It is less crowded and considered as an offbeat destination of South Goa.Rivona is also filled with water springs, verdant forests, hillsides and beautiful paddy fields. 

5.Dudhsagar falls-

Dudhsagar Falls is a four-tiered waterfall which is well known for ita beautiful amd cascading appearance.

The cascading effect of this waterfall gives rise to the illusion of a milky white sea falling from such a great height. This is how the Falls acquired its name – Dudhsagar Falls.

All image credits-Google