Goa Tour

Fact File
» Location from major metros : Panaji-Mumbai (593 kms), Panaji-Delhi (1912 kms), Panaji-Chennai (923 kms)

» Known For : Goa is India's most popular destination for beach holidays. The scenic beaches, exotic beach resorts, Portuguese monuments, tasty seafood and fun loving attitude of Goans makes the state an exhilarating holiday destination.

» Climate & the best time to visit : The climate of Goa is moderate. There is neither any drastic rise of temperature in summer months nor any sharp fall in winter season. The average yearly temperature remains in the range of 20-35 degrees. South west monsoon brings a lot of rainfall during the months of June-September. The only discomfort may be the high humidity levels during the summer months.

Tourists can plan a trip to Goa anytime during the year.


The State
Goa is regarded as India's liveliest tourist destination. It may be the smallest state of India but ranks among the topmost tourist destinations of the country. The 100 km long coastline of Goa is studded with some of the loveliest beaches in the world. Different types of fun-filled activities takes place in these beaches all round the year. The landscape of the state is also marked by many charming monuments of the Portuguese era. Some of them are architectural masterpieces of that era. Goa carnival, the most popular festival of the state also attracts tourists in large numbers. The festivities are marked by great fun and frolic. Add to that is Goa's delicious cuisine which tourists can hardly resist. Known for their warm hospitality, Goans are also fun loving people having great love for music, dance, food and sports. Goa is indeed a land of fun and frolic, calm and tranquility.

Attractions in Goa - The Cities in Goa
» Panaji : The state capital of Panaji preserves many of the legacies of Portuguese period. They include the Church Square, The Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, Adilshah Palace and Chapel of St. Sebastian. All these monuments are known for their distinct architectural styles having tremendous Portuguese influence. Other tourist attractions include the Goa state museum, Mayem lake, Menezes Braganza Institute and Central Library. Places of religious significance include Hindu Mahalaxmi temple and Jama Masjid.

» Margao : Margao is the second largest city of Goa situated at a distance of 33 kms from Panaji. The main attractions of the city are Pandava Caves, The Steely Church of The Holy Spirit, The House of Gables, Jorge Barreto park, Rachol Seminary, Monte Church and Chandreshwar Bhuthnath Temple. Margao may very well be described as a typical Goan town with Portuguese influence all around.

» Vasco Da Gama : Many of Goa's popular beaches are easily accessible from port city of Vasco. But that is not Vasco's only claim to fame. Vasco too has attractions in the form of Church of St. Alex, Curtorim, Church of Holy Spirit, Rachol Seminary, Shree Damodar Temple and the Buddhist caves.

» Mapusa : The third largest city of Goa is known as a shoppers paradise with everything from small grocery items to exotic souvenirs easily available. The Friday market of Mapusa attracts lots of crazy shoppers.


The Beaches in Goa
» Calanjute Beach : Lying on the northern coastline of Goa by the side of Arabian Sea, Calangute is Goa's most commercialized and busiest beach. Regarded as Goa's flagship beach, everything from water sports to gorgeous restaurants and casinos are available near this beach. » Varca Beach : Varca is one beach of Goa known for its serene ambience. It is a quiet beach with a bountiful beauty of nature. The splendid views of sunrise and sunset also attracts tourists to Varca shores in large numbers.

» Baga Beach : A part of the 30-km stretch of the western coastline of Goa, Baga is another beach known for its calm environs. Fort Aguada, an attractive Portuguese legacy stands right on the beach adding to the beauty of the place.

» Dona Paula Beach : Dona Paula beach is regarded as a haven for lovers of water sports activities. Beginning afternoon, various kinds of water sports like rafting, sailing, swimming and speed boating continues till late evening. Fishermen-turned-local vendors sell straw hats, lace handkerchiefs and other small handicraft items adding more colour to the beach activities.

» Anjuna Beach : Anjuna beach of Goa offers a great nightlife and some really wild parties. The parties that take place under moonlight and during Christmas-New Year period are a big hit among tourists. Infact, it is one beach where partying is a regular feature. The night life normally centres round the Shore Bar, Guru Bar and Primrose Cafe.


Goa Carnival
The carnival of Goa attracts people from all walks of life. This is a festival all about fun and frolic without any religious rituals or ceremonies taking part. The three day carnival takes place in the month of February. Colourful processions, music and dance are an integral part of the festivities. A variety of competitions are also held during the carnival period and winners announced at the end.


How To Reach
» By Air : The Dabolim airport on the outskirts of Goa's capital Panaji is the state's major airport. Flights operate to Dabolim from most major destinations of India.

» By Rail : A good railway network connects major towns and cities of Goa with the rest of India

» By Road : Goa has a well laid road network. Inter-state buses regularly operate between Goa and the neighbouring states of Maharashtra and Karnataka.