Introduction:
Goa, with its pastel-shaded houses, is an Indian state with a rich history. Found at the tip of India’s western coast, it occupies around 3,700 square kilometres. About 1.5 million people live there. Goa has Portuguese-style churches and architecture. Every year almost 2 million tourists visit.
Goa has a tropical savanna climate with hot, humid weather most months of the year, tempered by cool sea breezes. Temperatures range from 22 °C (72 °F) to 36 °C (97 °F). The average annual rainfall varies from 3,000 mm to 6,000 mm.[3]
How to reach goa?
Goa is well connected to all the major cities of India by road, rail and air. National Highway 17 connects Goa to Mumbai in the north and Mangalore in the South. NH 4A connects it to Belgaum. The state is also connected by railway line with Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore and Kochi. The two railway stations in goa – Madgaon and Vasco da Gama. The city of Panaji is served by Dabolim Airport which lies 28 km from Panaji and is connected to other Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Cochin, Trivandrum, Bangalore etc.
Places to visit in Goa:
Goa is a place that is popular for its beaches and is also known as the “tourist paradise”. It has beautiful landscapes and unique culture. If you want to visit Goa, here are some of the places you can visit:
1. Dudhsagar Falls-
These falls are located in Mollem National Park and it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India.
2. Fort Aguada-
This fort was made by Portuguese which was supposed to protect Old Goa from enemies. It is one of the biggest and best preserved Portuguese fort in India.
3. Calangute Beach-
This beach is famous for its nightlife and pubs which attracts a lot of tourists from around the world.
4. Church Of St Francis Assisi-
This church was built by Portuguese to celebrate victory against Muslim army. The church has graves of St Francis Xavier, another Portuguese saint who died on his way to China in 1552
5. Anjuna Flea Market-
This market is famous for shopping as well as food stalls where you can try various dishes including local street foods like prawn curry rice and pork vindaloo with goan bread called poi kundea bhakri.
6.Mangueshi Temple – This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and built in typical Goan style of architecture using laterite blocks and slate roofs. The temple was rebuilt after being destroyed by the Portuguese during their invasion.
And many more Places like The Anjuna Beach in South Goa is one such place that hosts some of the most happening parties in town. The palm-lined Baga Beach and Calangute Beach are also ideal for water sports like parasailing, jet skiing and banana rides. Further North, Candolim Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere with occasional fishermen passing by in small boats known as jangadas.
Goa’s cuisine
One of the best things about Goa is its local cuisine. And, if you’re lucky enough to be here during a festival, you can enjoy a range of delicious food at stalls set up on the streets. From the freshest seafood to home-style vegetarian curries, not to mention some unique desserts.
Goa’s local cuisine is a fusion of flavours – Portuguese, Brazilian, Arabic, French, African, Indian and Chinese. Sample local dishes like xacuti chicken, savoury pork mince or vindaloo, vegetarian bebinca (Goan dessert), and seafood such as crabs or lobsters.
For something truly exotic, try Feni, a coconut or cashew-nut liqueur that gives you quite a kick. Sample it in small amounts– it’s strong stuff.
Best time to visit goa
The best time to visit Goa is from September to February. During this time, the weather is favourable and there is no chance of rain. However, it is important to check the weather forecast before you book your tickets.
The best months to visit Goa are:
March – April
May – June
September – March.
Nightlife of Goa
Nightlife in Goa is a unique experience. The nightlife in Goa is quite different from other states in India and you will be amazed to see the crowd that gathers in Goa at night. There are many places where you can enjoy the nightlife of Goa and it will be one of the best experiences of your life.
Nightlife in Goa starts with a full moon party on Anjuna beach, which attracts thousands of people every year. The party starts at around 10 PM and goes on till 6 AM when the sun rises. This party is organised by a group called ‘Holi Ville’ who organises this festival every month on full moon day. You will find people dancing under the stars on Anjuna beach till dawn breaks out!
Another famous festival that is organised by ‘Holi Ville’ is called ‘Sunburn’. It is considered to be one of the biggest EDM festivals in Asia and attracts thousands of DJs from across the world every year. The event takes place between December 26th – January 2nd every year at Vagator Beach, North Goa near Aguada Fort
Takeaway
There are many things to do in Goa that its hard to list them all. It’s really an endless list of fun, adventure and tranquility. There are great activities for young and old, couples and families. You can also enjoy scuba diving or swimming in the crystal clear water. The hotels are very affordable and Goa is extremely safe, so you don’t need to worry about your belongings while you’re out & about either alone or with friends!
