Stretches of endless silver sand and white surf beaches wetted by the rush of the 'azure' arabian sea, the revelling of late nights over the local feni brew, the tarvernas, white churches and temples resting against plush green padding fields and coconut trees, the nostalgic atmosphere, longer days of sun, sand and sea, in other words-Welcome to Goa.But there's so much more than the sun, sand and trance. The allure of Goa is that it remains distinct from the rest of the other Indian states, and is yet small enough to get hold of and explore in a myriad of different ways. Its not just the familiar remnants of European colonialism that make Goa seem so accessible, but rather the prevalence of Christianity and some form of socio-political progressiveness that tourists most notably Westerners, can relate to. Although Hindus outnumber Catholics by 70-30, there are more skirts and pants than saris, and its people display a sense of liberality and civility which you'll be hard pressed to find elsewhere in India. Goa is perhaps the only place in India where shorts and tank tops and skimpy outfits are not frowned upon anywhere except at religious locations.
The palm-lined coastal plains, the wooded uplands and beaches so still and endless, create an illusion of lethargy- laziness or Sosegado, the local term. But in reality, Goans are hardworking, full of song, dance and merriment. Tourism is the main money-spinner and the majority of the population is engaged in related business. On the coast itself, coconut cultivation and fishing (both in-shore, with small boats, canoes and hand-nets, and off shore, with modern trawlers) are still the main sources of income. The discovery of iron in the hills to the east has also generated considerable revenue, and the economy is further fuelled by the stream of remittance cheques sent home by expatriate Goans working in Mumbai, the Gulf states, Europe and the U.S.
Destination Places in Goa
Fast Facts
| Population : | 1,457,723 |
| Languages : | Konkani,Hindi,English |
| Currency : | Rupees |
| Region : | South West India |
| Geographic Coordination : | 15.563°N 73.818°E |
| Climate and Weather : | You can visit this beautiful beach state at any month of the year. But the best time of year to visit is between the middle of September and the end of February, winter season, this is also the peak tourist season. |
| Best time to visit : | The best time to visit Goa is during winter season, from November to March. This is decidedly the peak tourist season of the state. |
| Country : | India |
| Area : | Aguada Beach,Anjuna Beach,Arambol Beach,Candolim Beach,Chapora Beach,Colva Beach,Madgaon Beach,Palolem Beach,Sinquerim Beach,Vagator Beach |
Food
The major attractions of the cuisine take in seafood, sea-fruits, fish, prawns, mussels, oysters, crabs, feni, gin and many more.
Shopping
Goa is also famous for its cashew nuts. Available in different flavors, the cashew nuts of Goa are the most wanted item in every tourist's list. If you are Shopping in Goa, then cashew nuts are a must buy. Goa is famous for small knick knacks like trinkets, ear rings, bracelets, etc. that are easily available in bulk in local markets as well as shacks on beaches. Items of local handicrafts like shell work, bamboo work, brassware, terracotta, crochet, carved furniture, etc. are available aplenty and are a good choice for a souvenir.
Local Transport
Motor cycle/Bike,Auto-Rickshaw,Bus,Car,Ferries / Boats
Getting Around
Panaji,Ponda,Margao,Canacona,Mapusa,Vasco da Gama
Entertainment
Entertainment in Goa beckon the visitors of all ages. Goa nightlife entertainment is celebrated in famous night clubs, discotheques, pubs and casinos of Goa. The state provides several entertainment centres where Goans and tourists celebrate a sizzling Goa nightlife. Dance, music, drinks and Goan food are the main elements of entertainment in Goa at night.