Where is Goa?
Goa is located on the west coast of India in the Konkan region, with
Maharashtra lying on its north and Karnataka on its east and south.
What is the city famous for?
Goa is world renowned for its pristine, enchanting and tranquil beaches.
The list of beaches includes some very famous names like
Condolim,
Baga,
Calangute and
Anjuna.
How will you gain access?
Dabolim (29 km from Panaji, the state capital) is Goa's International
airport. There are numerous flights operated by domestic airlines to connect
the city to the key destinations of the country. By rail-route, Goa is
linked with major cities like Mumbai (490 km), Bangalore (430 km) and Delhi
(1874 km). Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra state transport corporation ply
buses from the Kadamba Bus Stand at Panaji.
What
does the climate say?
Goa usually experiences a temperate climate and there are no extremes of
temperature faced. The average temperature of the place ranges between 25
degrees and 30 degrees centigrade. Monsoons arrive between June and the end
of September. The average rainfall records 325 cm.
What magnetises people?
Goa Beaches
Goa is internationally renowned for its virgin and serene beaches. The
sensuous silvery sands, the swaying palm groves frolicking with the winds
and the sparkling waters of the sea leave no one untouched. Calangute,
Anjuna and Baga beaches are well known names throughout the length and
breadth of the globe.
Churches and Forts
There
can be found a fair bunch of ancient churches and exquisite temples. The
churches depict the European style of architecture. Most of the churches
were built during the Portuguese regime. Forts, though few in number,
largely contribute to the glorious past of the city.
Lakes and Waterfalls
Nature has endowed Goa with a number of mesmerising lakes and bewitching
waterfalls, adding yet another beautiful feather to the city's cap. Moving
35 km away from Panaji, one comes to the beautiful Mayem Lake. Set
wonderfully amidst verdant hills, the lake makes an idyllic picnic spot for
the tourists and visitors. Carambolim Lake is another beautiful lake around.
While talking of waterfalls, one must note that the most impressive
waterfalls of Goa lie on its eastern border with Karnataka. Arvalem
waterfalls, cascading down from a height of 50 m is yet another amazing
sight.
Goa Carnival
The
exclusive Goa Carnival is a much awaited event for one and all. It was
introduced by the Portuguese, who ruled over the city for more than five
hundred years. Held in February every year, the festival continues for three
days. The event involves great feasting, drinking and merrymaking. Huge
parades are organised throughout the state. The carnival concludes with the
celebrated Red-and-Black dance held by the Club National in Panjim.
Which are the nearby hotels?
Goa has a lot offer in terms of accommodation facilities. There are a
number of hotels and resorts ranging from star-rated to budget hotels. Taj
Exotica (18 km from airport), Leela Palace (47 km from airport) and Fort
Aguada Beach Resort (45 km from airport) are some of the finest 5-star
deluxe hotels. The 4-star group of hotels include names like Sun Village
Resort (50 km from airport), the Taj Holiday Village Resort (50 km from
airport), Hotel Aguada Hermitage (45 km from airport)etc.
Where should you shop?
Take home with you the excellent handicrafts of Goa like brass ware, terra
cotta, shell work, crochet, carved furniture, bamboo work etc. One can
easily find the items at the Governemnt emporia and shops. Goa is very
popular for its cashew nuts too. Mapusa and Anjuna are famous traditional
markets of the place. The Wednesday market at Anjuna Beach gives an
opportunity of buying interesting souvenirs, beachwear, trinkets and local
handicrafts. Panjim, the capital of Goa, is also a fantastic shopping
destination for purchasing handicrafts, carpets, rugs, leather goods, silk
items etc.
