GOA
Overview
Goa is a state on the southwestern coast of India and is famous for its sandy beaches and tropical climate. Some would describe Goa as a “Bohemian Paradise” which is something different when compared with the rest of India. Portuguese rule of Goa for 450 years from the year 1510 has left its indelible mark on the local population of its culture and way of life, something unique to the subcontinent.
Goa is the sixth smallest state in the Indian Union but is packed with contrasts. Its picture-perfect never-ending Arabian Sea beaches to its west and imposing Sahyardri Mountains (western Ghats) rise to about 3,500 ft above sea level to its east. Several rivers crisscross the state and landscapes with swaying palms, and rice fields and its Indo-Portuguese fusion cuisine is an ideal place for you to have a relaxing holiday in the tropical sun.
Goa is a perfect honeymoon destination, a great getaway with friends, and an amazing family holiday destination filled with activities and attractions to keep everyone engaged.
The Goa State has a coastline of 99 miles and there are several beautiful beaches like Agonda, Anjuna, Arambol, Calangute Beach, Candolim, and Vagator Beach to name a few. North Goa is famous for its lively beaches with its bars and music and South Goa is known for its serene landscapes and luxury resorts with quieter, relaxing beaches.
Goa is the state which gave "Vindaloo" a culinary delight to the world, the name is derived from the Portuguese word "Vinha De Alhos," which refers to the dish's two key ingredients, "Vinho" (Vinigar) and "Alhos" (Garlic). Initially, it was a watery stew in Portugal cooked mainly with pork, vinegar, and garlic, now of course many spices go into the dish.
Places to Visit in Goa
In addition to popular coastal hot spots that draw tourists to Goa from around the globe, the destination also has historical churches and temples, museums, vibrant wildlife, spice farms, hills, and waterfalls. However long you may spend in Goa, you'll wish you had a few more days to explore.
CHURCHES IN GOA
There are many churches in Goa built by the colonial Portuguese during their 450-year rule in Goa and these churches attract worshipers as well as admirers of architectural beauty. We have selected the following two.
Basilica de Bom Jesus
Easily one of the oldest churches in India, the construction work on the church began in 1594 after the demolition of the old Siva Kovil (temple) is also the finest example of Baroque (ornamented decoration) and Portuguese architecture in India. The modest yet imposing structure contains the remains of St. Francis Xavier and is a popular pilgrimage site. The basilica has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
You can tour the church on your own, or you can hire one of the independent guides near the entrance for a small fee. Inside, there are huge ornamental screens, along with the body of the resident saint in a casket that was once covered in precious stones. It's a compelling place that will take you back in time.
Every year, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier draws big crowds to this church in late November and early December. A nine-day novena (a special prayer) and open-air masses before concluding with the major holiday on the 3rd of December.
CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
This is another one of Goa’s historic churches set on a hill overlooking laid-back Panaji City the capital of Goa State. Panaji is located on the banks of the Mandovi River, and the city has cobblestone streets lined with colourful villas and buildings from the Portuguese colonial era. Palm-fringed Miramar Beach sits at the confluence of the river and the Arabian Sea.
The pristine white church, which dates to the early 17th century stands atop of a zig-zagging staircase. It’s a perfectly symmetrical Portuguese Baroque architecture that is a sight to remember. At night, twinkle lights make the church look like something out of a fairy tale.
While not being grandiose the church's interior has bright and colourful decorations. The elegant main altar dedicated to Mother Mary and gilded pillars with elaborate carvings are there to be admired.
DUDHSAGAR FALLS
A spectacular four-tiered waterfall that towers just over a thousand ft above the ground. It's one of India's tallest waterfalls and a popular attraction for day trips around Goa and Karnataka.
The trip to get to the falls involves a 45-minute shared jeep ride through the jungle passing the Devil's Canyon along the way. You will then scurry over some boulders to finally reach the falls. Those who wish to take a dip can do so with the help of a lifejacket.
It is worth noting that only a limited jeeps are allowed to enter Dudhsagar Falls every day and reservations in advance is recommended.
ANJUNA FLEA MARKET
This market goes back to the hippie era some fifty years ago supplying cotton clothes, bags, scarves, leather footwear, rustic jewellery, incense, and more. One of the best places to visit in Goa, the Anjuna Flea Market as much a part of the Goa experience as the beaches. The market held only on a Wednesday is delightfully chaotic with hundreds of stalls and it is a treasure trove for those who love shopping for knick-knacks, handicrafts, hippie clothing, souvenirs, and everything else from handbags to footwear and junk jewellery as well as Keralan spices.
The market also hosts live music and band performances. One can relish exquisite seafood and cold beer from the shacks on the beach. The market operates during the tourist season only, from mid-November to the end of April.
Tip – Brush up your bargaining skills before getting there and as in all crowded places keep your valuables safe.
The Festival of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception at this church is a major holiday on the 8th of December.
MAHADEV (TAMBDI SURLA) TEMPLE
There are many centuries old Hindu temples in Goa some going back many centuries, many were destroyed by the Portuguese without trace during their 450-year rule in Goa (1510-1961).
Mahadev Temple is covered with elaborate sculptures and ornament that form a fundamental part of its conception. This is a 12th-century Saivite temple in the Kadamba style dedicated to Lord Siva and an active place of Hindu worship. Kadamba is a dynasty which ruled Goa between 960 CE – 1310 CE.
The temple survived the destruction by the Portuguese because of its location inside a forest. It is an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected monument of national importance in Goa. (ASI) is an Indian government agency that is responsible for archaeological research and the conservation and preservation of cultural and historical monuments in the country.
It is situated inside Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary near Molem 35 miles east of Panaji the capital of Goa State.
MANGESHI TEMPLE
In 1560, when the Portuguese started converting the local population to Christianity, the locals moved the Mangesh Linga (deity of Lord Siva) from its original site to Kushasthali on the riverbanks of Aghanashini where it is presently located in the village of Atrunja Taluka about 13 miles from Panaji the capital of Goa State.
The stunning 450-year-old Shri Mangesh temple is dedicated to Lord Siva and is outstanding with its simple and elegant structure.
Deepstambh (Tower of Light) – The history goes that there stood a tower tall and stately over the Mangeshi Temple. The temple devotees later erected another gleaming tower next to it with twenty-two levels of oil lamps and a metal pillar resting on a brass turtle's back.
Then a third The Lamp Tower a polygonal (octagonal) structure was built is more probably from the “Goan Piazza Cross” architectural influence. This tower gives the illusion of a leaning tower.
THE FONTAINHAS
Fontainhas in Panjim the capital of Goa State is one of Asia's only Latin quarters. Once the headquarters for the Portuguese government in Goa features colonial houses and cottages decked out with pastel and fluorescent façades. Each of the houses get a fresh coat of paint after the monsoon season every year, ensuring that they always look vibrant for visitors. The district was nicknamed “Fountain of Phoenix” is a UNESCO-recognised Heritage Zone.
You can explore the area on your own or book a walking tour for a more in-depth look at the history of this fascinating neighbourhood. Refuel at one of the decades-old cafés or bakeries in the neighbourhood there is a wide selection of tasty Goan cakes and sweets to try.
BHAGWAN MAHAVIR WILDLIFE SACUTUARY
Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park is a 93 sq. miles protected area located in the Western Ghats near the town of Molem 35 miles east of Panaji, the state capital of Goa.
The area is home to the black leopard, Bengal tiger, Malabar giant squirrel, wild boar, slender loris, Indian rock python, and ruby-throated yellow bulbul (Goa's state bird). The parkland is also home to a community of nomadic buffalo herders known as the Dhangar.
In addition to the wildlife, there are several important temples dating to the Kadamba Dynasty of Goa, and home to waterfalls, such as Dudhsagar Falls and Tambdi Falls.
It is recommended to hire a guide and visit the sanctuary either early in the morning or in the evening to get a chance to catch a glimpse of these animals. One could combine the visits to Dudhsagar Falls and Devil's Canyon. You can also check out the Mahdev (Tambdi Surla) Temple, a temple that has survived since the 12th century, thanks to its remote location in the forest. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings of the Hindu god Siva.
FORTS OF GOA
Many old forts in Goa are living proof of contrasting history and these magnificent structures are open to the public.
Fort Aguda
Built in 1612, the strategically located fort was the most prized fort for the Portuguese rulers. Situated at the mouth of River Mandovi, this massive and magnificent structure presents a breathtaking view of the endless sea spreading away from it. A freshwater spring within the fort provided water supply to the ships that stopped by and there is a four-storey lighthouse erected in 1864 is the oldest of its kind in Asia.
It is one of the ideal locations from where you can catch a breathtakingly beautiful sunset in the Arabian Sea with the sky painted in different shades of red serving as its backdrop.
CABO DE RAMA FORT
Claimed to be one of the oldest forts in Goa, Cabo de Rama was once under the Hindu rulers of the land. Later the fort fell into the hands of Mughal rulers who came from today’s Uzbekistan and later under the control of the Portuguese who rebuilt it. There are quite a few legends associated with this place, each telling a story about its rich cultural past. One legend says that the fort and the cape have been named to honour Lord Rama from the Hindu epic Ramayana. According to the legend, Lord Rama stayed at this place with his wife Sita during their long period of exile from Ayodhya, their home city.
The fort houses the Church of Santo Antonio, which is in fine condition. A few devotees come to pray at this church, though you are more likely to come across visitors who flock for its tranquil environment and the magical views it offers from the fort.
CABO RAJ NIWAS
Built in 1540 AD opposite Fort Aguada on the south headland of Mandovi River and once housed the elegant Franciscan Monastery. It later became the official residence of successive Governors of Goa. There is a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea and the Mandovi River from the fort and there is a magnificent church at the edge of the cliff.
CHAPORA FORT
Rising high above the Chapora River, Chapora Fort remains a testimony to many chapters of history that unfolded at this location. The fort was built by Adil Shah of Bijapur in 1717, is undeniably an integral part of Goa’s rich heritage. The hill-top location of the fort offers it commanding views in every direction. With steep slopes on all sides, the fort provided an excellent defensive advantage to the occupants during its time.
It stands today as one of those forts in Goa that have lost out much of its grandeur to time. All that remains are its gigantic walls and several tombstones. The church that once stood inside the complex is no longer there. Nonetheless, the place is still worth a visit if only for the fascinating view of Vagator Beach that you can see from this commanding position.
FORT TIRACOL
Built in the 17th century Fort Tiracol is a famous fort at the mouth of Tiracol River in Goa that offers you a sweeping view of the countryside, this spectacular fort was once a crucial part of Portuguese maritime defences. It will take you a ferry ride from Querim village to reach the location of this fort.
The fort has now been converted into a heritage hotel. The church inside the fort complex is open to the public only on certain occasions.
MUSEUMS IN GOA
There are several interesting museums in Goa to visit.
GOA STATE MUSEUM
The Goa State Museum has an impressive collection of artifacts. The museum showcases artifacts and items pertaining to religious expression, the history of printing in the state, cultural anthropology, furniture, sculptures, contemporary and Christian art, and information on Goa’s struggle for freedom from the Portuguese.
MUSEUM OF CHRISTIAN ART
The Museum of Christian Art is the only museum in Asia, featuring a collection of items about the emergence of Christianity in the State. It is famous for its impressive collection of sculptures, furniture, ivory, paintings, textiles, and metals.
GOA CHITRA MUSEUM
Displaying artifacts related to traditional farming equipment. Apart from that, the museum also showcases coconut farming tools, milk churning tools, traditional hand-woven baskets, and several other implements that are not in use today.
The museum partners with scholars and educational institutions to do more research on the farming and traditional cultivation techniques of ancient Goans.
HOUSE OF GOA
The stunning exterior and interior design of Houses of Goa was architected by the renowned Gerard da Cunha. The artifacts in this museum depict the history of architecture in Goa.
There is a famous Mario Gallery here which showcases the paintings of Goa’s celebrated painter Mario Mirando.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
Established in the mid-nineteenth century, this museum contains several ancient Persian and Arabic inscriptions, weapons used by the Portuguese army, and related artifacts. On the walls you can see portraits of governors and viceroys who ruled Goa during the colonial time, making it the most interesting museum of Goa.
BIG FOOT MUSEUM
Established in the mid-nineteenth century, this museum contains several ancient Persian and Arabic inscriptions, weapons used by the Portuguese army, and related artifacts. On the walls you can see portraits of governors and viceroys who ruled Goa during the colonial time, making it the most interesting museum of Goa.
EATING OUT
Eating out is a sheer pleasure in paradisiacal Goa! Portuguese/Indian fusion dishes are a delight. Seafood choices are plentiful from the Arabian Sea and coconut in all forms as the main ingredients and a variety of exquisite spices from its land is a culinary paradise.
Goa is the state which gave "Vindaloo" a culinary delight to the world, the name is derived from the Portuguese word "Vinha De Alhos," which refers to the dish's two key ingredients, "Vinho" (Vinigar) and "Alhos" (Garlic). Initially, it was a watery stew in Portugal cooked mainly with pork, vinegar, and garlic, now the fusion curry comes with many spices into the dish. “Pork” Vindaloo is a rare find in the UK, Goa is the place to try the dish in its original form.
Holidaymakers on luxury holidays will find plenty of international restaurants offering mesmerising Italian and French dishes. Seafood lovers are truly in luck at all those beach shacks that serve freshly cooked seafood.
WORKING SPICE FARMS
The Romans, Venetians, and ancient Chinese all came to South India for spices like black pepper, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon which grew in abundance in the region, black pepper was known as black gold at that time.
Agritourism is gaining traction and tours are available to farms often led by its owner, which will give you an in-depth understanding of these spice crops and other crops like saffron, ginger, betelnut, pineapple, banana, and more.
Hands-on cookery classes are also available in some farms followed by lunch, tasting one’s creations.
GOA WALKING TOURS
There are several guided walking tours to choose from and some of the tours are listed below.
• Goa Street Food Tour.
• Old Goa Walking Tour with Local Snacks.
• Heritage Walk through Goa's Latin Quarter.
• Walking Tour of Heritage Churches.
• Highlights of Portuguese-Influenced Goa.
• Local Goan Village Tour with Traditional Lunch.
Private Market Visit and Cooking Class and lunch.
