The Indian state of Goa, also known as ‘the pearl of the east’, is known for its Gothic churches, age-old ruins, palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, ferry rides, and bubbly folk music. With its 131-km-long coastline, Goa is an important tourism destination in every tourist’s itinerary. Sun, sand and sea being the major attractions, Goa is a perfect tourism heaven for the ones who need and want relaxation. Goa is one of India’s special tourism places, a State seemingly blessed with fabulous weather, even more fabulous beaches, delightful people, good food, hill-top forts, little white-washed churches, soaring Portuguese-era cathedrals, a unique cultural legacy-small wonder, therefore, that Goa is one of India’s prime tourism and holiday destinations. Come during the holidays or just about any long weekend, and Goa is packed with jaded yuppies hoping to switch off and unwind for a few days, and sun-starved Europeans, soaking up all that glorious sun and food.
- All About Goa!
The history of Goa is dominated by Portuguese colonization. Long before the British gained their first foothold in India, the Portuguese had arrived in India in search of spices and other lucrative products. They were among the first Europeans to colonize some parts of India. Before the Portuguese, Goa had been ruled by various Hindu and Muslim dynasties. Amalgamation of so many social and cultural influences has had a strong bearing on the everyday life, arts, and culture of Goa. The early history of Goa is quite obscure. References to a place called ‘Gomantak’ in the Mahabharata have been considered by some scholars to relate to Goa. Even earlier references have been claimed. The known history takes us back to the Mauryan times when Goa was a part of the vast Mauryan Empire. The region subsequently came under the Satavahanas, the Chalukyas, Kadambas, Yadavas, and the Vijayanagar Kingdom.
The rich culture of Goa is evident as you tour the streets of the state. The harmonious existence of different cultures and beliefs is endorsed by the co-existence of churches, temples and synagogues. The influence of Portuguese, however, can be seen in its music, food, festival and architecture. The diverse culture of Goa becomes more evident as you tour through Goa. The modern and happening lifestyle of the beaches gives way to the deeply religious aspects – the number of churches and temples, dotting the landscape of the state.
Visit the modern cities of Goa, pulsating with the beats of industrialization and tourism, but still holding cultural traditions up on their sleeves. Even after decades of Portuguese rule, they still sing the glory of the past, and that gives a unique charm to its metropolis and even trivial towns. And each of Goa’s major hubs has its own vibrant history and purpose in this intriguing little state – Panjim, the capital city; Vasco da gama, the port town; Margao, the commercial centre; Mapusa, the market town; and Ponda, the temple town.
Goa is bestowed with a coastline that stretches to almost 100 km. Pristine, palm fronted beaches entice tourists with their inviting azure waters and bustling waves. Interestingly, though Calangute, Vagator and Baga beaches are part of the same coastline, each is different in its natural beauty and temperament. You can also indulge into a a lot of hot-blooded water sport opportunities including snorkeling, kayaking, water-skiing, sailing, wind-surfing and fishing that will make your holiday.