Goa

click for more info.

Introduction
An erstwhile Portuguese colony, Goa is an irresistibly romantic destination in India. Sensuous beaches, crystal clear lakes, azure expanse of water and the sylvan surroundings of the state magnetise tourists and travellers from all parts of the world. Life seems to be a celebration on the long sun-kissed sandy beaches of Goa. Partaking in the chromatic festivals, enjoying bonfire nights and being a part of the rave parties in Goa is truly an experience of a lifetime. The Portuguese are no more but the influence still pervades the soil of Goa. Boasting a coastline spanning more than 100 km, the state also offers a great deal in terms of adventurous water sports. The populace comprise of different religions here, yet there is a harmonious combination that never seems to fail.


Location & Climate
The state of Goa is positioned on the western coast of the Indian peninsula. It is surrounded by Maharashtra on its north, Karnataka on its south and the Western Ghats on the east. The Arabian Sea lies to its west. Owing to the its proximity to the sea, Goa enjoys a moderate climate with little variations in the temperature. May is the hottest month of the year while January/ February is the coldest time. Anytime seems to be a good time to visit the evergreen state of Goa.


Sightseeing
Goa is a destination with myriad hues. There are temples, churches, monuments, exotic villages and of course beaches. Vacationers, families and honeymooners keep flocking to Goa all the year round. Some of the most famous tourist attractions of Goa are as follows.

» Church of Immaculate Conception : Goa has preserved a lot of the Portuguese heritage even to this day. The Church of Immaculate Conception is an ancient place of worship dating back to 1541 AD. It is the main church for the catholics of Panaji, the capital of Goa. Even in the medieval time, the Portuguese sailors gathered here to offer thanksgiving prayer.

» Se Cathedral of St Catherine :The Se Cathedral of St Catherine is one of the most imposing churches in Panaji and the largest in the whole of Asia. The church comprises of 14 altars, an 80 metre long aisle and 5 bells. The architectural style of the church is worth experiencing for one and all.

» Basilica of Bom Jesus : Built in the late 16th century, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is held in high regard by the Catholic world. The church is a pilgrimage venue both for the Christians and the Hindus as it houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier lie here in a silver casket since 1553.

» Beaches of Goa : The beaches of Goa are too sensational to escape. Beach lovers from arrive here from all over the world to soak in the splendour that these beaches offer. Tourists can be seen partying till late night on the silvery sands enjoying the feni and gorging on the fresh sea food. Renowned beaches of the state include Anjuna, Colva, Baga, Calangute, Dona Paula, Arambol, Vagator and Benaulim.


Accommodation Options :
To attend to the huge influx of tourists, Goa has come up with a number of hotels and beach resorts. Lodging options of all categories are available for tourists here. Tourists on a shoestring budget can choose to stay at budget hotels and private guest houses. Some of the popular hotels of Goa are as follows.

ask for goa hotel booking

Accessibility
Goa's international airport lies at Dabolim, 29 km from capital Panaji. The airport has regular flights connecting to the key destinations of the country. Rail route is well established and Goa is reachable from places like Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai. Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka state transport corporation buses regularly from Goa's Panaji Bus stand connecting to the different parts of Goa and the neighbouring states.

click for more info.