Goa is a coastal tourism paradise located on the west coast of India. It is a popular tourist destination known for its sandy beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. The region is located in West India, with Panaji as its capital. There are two districts in Goa, North Goa and South Goa, both with their unique beauty. The nightlife of Goa is significantly popular among the youth. Goa is an ideal destination for couples to plan to honeymoon, friends to enjoy parties, water sports, and so on. It is the smallest state in the country tucked between the Arabian Sea and Shyadri range of Western Ghats. Goa is known to be the fun capital where the enjoyment comprises beautiful beaches, carnivals, cruise holidays, flea markets, festive ambiance, water sports, alcohol, lip-smacking snacks and cuisines, architectural brilliance, trance and headphone parties, casinos, shopping and many more.
History - During the Later Vedic Period, when the epic The Mahabharata was written, Goa was given the Sanskrit name ‘Gomantak’, which primarily meant fertile land. Later, the Portuguese renamed it as Goa. Other than Goa, the place was also named Gove or Gowapura. The port town at the mouth of the Mandovi River was the only known by these names. It is the same area where the Portuguese set their capital and is presently known as ‘Old Goa’.
Known as the "Queen of Beaches," Calangute is the largest beach in Goa, with a pictorial view and a popular spot for water sports, dotted with clubs, shacks, restaurants, etc.
Built in the 17th century, this fort is located at Sinquerim Beach and offers a view of the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Mandovi River. Still in good shape, the fortress also houses a lighthouse built in the late 1880s.
This church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier and is a popular pilgrimage site. Being a significant legacy of the Portuguese colonial, the architectural wonder attracts tourists from all over the country.
Located in the Western Ghats, these waterfalls are a breathtaking sight during the monsoon season. The cascade is among the tallest waterfalls in India. The height of the waterfall is 300 meters and splits into 3 streams. The waterfall is located near Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, Mollem. .
One of the largest churches in Asia, this cathedral is known for its Portuguese-Gothic architecture, impressive bell tower, mosaic work and wonderful interiors. The Church has been enlisted in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Deltin Royale Casino is a large floating casino in Goa on the Mandovi River, offering poker, blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and slot machines. It also has restaurants, bars, live entertainment, etc. Luxury live gaming is available in 3 levels with several gaming positions.
By Air: There are two airports in Goa - Goa International Airport and Manohar International Airport. Both of these airports are in two districts of Goa and about 57.4 km from each other. Flights are connected internationally and also from major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi and Chennai.
By Rail: Two significant railheads in Goa are - Madgaon Junction (MAO) and Vasco da Gama Railway Station (VSG). These railway stations are 36.5 km and 28.5 km from Goa’s capital Panaji, respectively.
By Road: A road trip to Goa is indeed a fascinating expedition. It takes about 13 hours and 15 minutes from Mumbai via NH4. Private and state buses are available to commute to and from Pune, Mumbai, Hampi and Bengaluru.