GOA
A colorful blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, sweetened with sun, sea and spirituality, Goa is India’s pocket-sized paradise, which lies very close to the North Western Ghats rainforests, one of the rare biodiversity hotspots of the world.
The state is divided into two major districts: North Goa and South Goa. North Goa is famous for its lively beaches like Calangute and beach shacks like Fort Aguada. On the other hand, South Goa is known for its quieter beaches like Butterfly and many sightseeing places like Dudhsagar Waterfalls where one can enjoy trekking among its many offers.
What to do – what to see
The biggest water reservoir in Asia
400 years ago, Fort Aguada was the symbol of hope for Portuguese sailors who dreamt of trading spices in the Konkan coast and protecting themselves from naval fight of European nations. The fort is a marvelous example of Italian architecture and Portuguese military architecture. It can store 2 000 000 gallons of water in its enormous cistern.
The fort is located in Sinquerim Village near Candolim and can be visited every day from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm.
The sea of milk
The Dudhsagar Waterfall is a part of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and is in Sanguem Taluka of Goa. The waterfall is divided into three streams as it falls from an almost vertical cliff face. Among the locals, it is popularly known as Tambdi Surla. The most popular trek in the sanctuary starts from the village of Kuveshi or at the Kulem Railway Station in Goa and extends for about 11 kilometers. Another trek route is the one that begins at Castle Rock
Railway Station and extends for about 14 kilometers.
The oldest Hindu temple of Goa
The temple is believed to have been constructed in Jain architectural style during the 12 th century. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the entire temple is built from the finest basalt stones with intricate carvings on the wall. The structure has survived the destruction of Hindu temples by the Mughals and Portuguese because of its hidden location. One of the most scenic temples in Goa, located in Sanguem, Surla, it is believed that a large black cobra resides inside the main sanctum of the temple at night.
From the Baroque to the Rococo era
Churches in Goa are important landmarks and major tourist attractions just like its beaches. Built during the Portuguese era, the churches of Goa are rich in history as well as in architecture. Amongst the major attractions in Goa are the 17th century Basilica of Bom Jesus, where the relics of St Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa; Se Cathedral, the most beautiful church of Old Goa; and Our Lady of Immaculate Conception.
