Goa, fondly referred to as the ‘Pearl of The Orient’, is situated in South West India on the Konkan Coast. It is famous throughout the world for its beautiful beaches, ancient churches and temples, amazing carnivals and the primary refuse of hippies. Not only is it naturally blessed with infinite expansive beaches but also possessed fertile plains as well as forested hills. It is known as the Holiday Capital of India and is thus a hotspot for intermingling of different cultures.
Beaches in Goa
The coastline of India’s Beach capital is generously filled with sand and surfing and comprises of a large number of famous tourist spots. Goa offers a large number of beautiful beaches surrounded by hotels offer various modern facilities including restaurants, resorts, luxuries, spas, shops and entertainment centers.
Popular Holiday Beaches in Goa
Anjuna: Located at a distance of 18 kms from Panaji, it is surrounded by hills and sea on both the sides. It possesses immense natural beauty which makes it extremely scenic.
Baga: It is located in North Goa and is surrounded with picturesque scenery on all sides.
Vagator: It is situated at a distance of 22 kms from Panaji and is crescent shaped. It is a quite beach with a site for night long parties during holiday season.
Calangute: Situated in North Goa, it is fondly called as ‘Queen of Beaches’. However, being quite popular, it is quite crowded throughout the year.
Colva: Located 40 kms away from the capital, it is a holiday spot filled with hotels, shops, restaurants and discos. It is also famous for the Church of Lady of Mercy comprising of the Statue of Menino Jesus.
Miramar: It sees a lot of tourist rush due to its proximity to the Capital of Goa. It is situated at the place where the Mandovi Rivers meets the Arabian Sea and offers a great view of Aguada Fort.
Churches in Goa
Due to the Portuguese Rule, Goa is dotted with a large number of beautiful churches, particularly in Old Goa. During the Baroque Period when St Francis Xavier and other missionaries arrived in India, a large number of grand churches depicting the contemporary European style were build. Some of the famous churches of this time include Augustine Church of Lady of Grace and Basilica of Bom Jesus. After end of 18th century, many modern churches came up such as Church of Holy Spirit in Margao, and Nossa Senhora.
Goan Cuisine
The Goan Cuisine also attracts a lot of tourist to visit this beautiful place. The staple for both Christians and Hindus in Goan Cuisine is Rice and Fish Curry.
Some of the famous dishes include Ambot Tik (Fish in Sour Gravy), Xacuti (Spicy meat), Sorpotel (fiery pork), and Feni (a drink made using cashew nuts).
Thus, Goa offers an amazing mix of beautiful beaches, drinks and food, nature, culture, religious as well as a fun galore, that is difficult to find elsewhere in the world.
Read also
- How To Beat Travel Stress and Jet Lag
- How To Plan a Family Weekend Getaway
- Keep Your Travel Light and Right
- Planning A Road Trip
- How to Dress Chic for a Long Flight
