One of the most popular holiday destinations in India, Goa is known for its scenic beaches, old churches and cathedrals, River Cruises, coconut groves and the influence of the Portuguese culture in its cuisine and architecture. This state in India along the Konkan Coast is divided into North Goa and South Goa districts.
The beaches of Goa stretch over 106 km from Querim in the north to Mobor in the South. Both North Goa and South Goa have its share of beautiful beaches, where the traveller can have a good time in the shacks that serve food and drinks, shop in the lively flea markets and swim in the sea. There is a range of activities in Goa such as sailing, wind-surfing, water-skiing, para-sailing, canoeing, rides in motor boats and jet skiing.
Old Goa was the Portuguese capital until the middle of the eighteenth century. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this place has a beautiful complex of churches and monasteries that also contains two historical monuments- the Basilica de Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral. These are remainders from the old Portuguese rule and are designed in European styles such as Renaissance, Baroque and Portuguese Manueline. The Basilica de Bom Jesus houses the mortal remains of Goa’s patron saint Francis Xavier. It has importance in that it was the first church in South Asia that received the status of a Minor Basilica in 1946. Built in 1594 in the Baroque style, it has three tiered façade that combines different styles of architecture. The Se Cathedral is Asia’s largest church.
Evenings in Goa are enchanting for the traveller especially during a River Cruise across the Mandovi River during sunset. Between 6 and 7 pm, the boat glides across the river while troupes of Goan dancers and musicians provide the entertainment. The Portuguese influence is still seen in the old colonial mansions as well as in the rich cuisine of Goa.
The beaches of Goa stretch over 106 km from Querim in the north to Mobor in the South. Both North Goa and South Goa have its share of beautiful beaches, where the traveller can have a good time in the shacks that serve food and drinks, shop in the lively flea markets and swim in the sea. There is a range of activities in Goa such as sailing, wind-surfing, water-skiing, para-sailing, canoeing, rides in motor boats and jet skiing.
Old Goa was the Portuguese capital until the middle of the eighteenth century. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this place has a beautiful complex of churches and monasteries that also contains two historical monuments- the Basilica de Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral. These are remainders from the old Portuguese rule and are designed in European styles such as Renaissance, Baroque and Portuguese Manueline. The Basilica de Bom Jesus houses the mortal remains of Goa’s patron saint Francis Xavier. It has importance in that it was the first church in South Asia that received the status of a Minor Basilica in 1946. Built in 1594 in the Baroque style, it has three tiered façade that combines different styles of architecture. The Se Cathedral is Asia’s largest church.
Evenings in Goa are enchanting for the traveller especially during a River Cruise across the Mandovi River during sunset. Between 6 and 7 pm, the boat glides across the river while troupes of Goan dancers and musicians provide the entertainment. The Portuguese influence is still seen in the old colonial mansions as well as in the rich cuisine of Goa.
