About Goa
Goa, the smallest state of India is sandwiched between the large states of Maharashtra and Karnataka and nestles on the western coastline of India. This tiny state, proudly owns some of the finest beaches of the country. It is noteworthy that to ensure that the beach holidays are most memorable and comfortable, multitude of exotic beach resorts have been developed along the magnificent beaches of the state. Besides the lovely beaches, there are many other attractions in the city amongst which the legacies of the Portuguese period top the priority charts. The place is visited throughout the year by people from all across the world who are charmed by the exquisite cuisine, beautiful locations, nearby attractions and a lovely weather. Goa is definitely one of the most desired destinations in the country and a hot-selling place in the international tourist market.


Reaching There
» By Air : Dabolim is the nearest airport from Goa situated at a distance of around 29 km from Panaji on the coast near Vasco da Gama. Most domestic airlines operate in Goa apart from chartered private airlines operating from UK and Germany. Indian Airlines has direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai daily and Air India also flies to Goa.

» By Rail : Konakan Railway connects Margao railhead and Vasco da Gama railhead to major cities in India. You can take trains from Delhi (1,874 km), Mumbai (490km), and Bangalore (430 km) to reach Goa comfortably. From the railway stations, you can hire taxis and motorcycle taxis to reach the desired destinations.

» By Road : Panaji, the capital of Goa, is connected by road to Bangalore-598 kms, Belgaum-157 km, Bombay-594 km, Gokarn-154 km, Hospet-315 km, Hubli-184 km, Karwar-103 km, Kolhapur-246 km, Malwan-150 km, Mangalore-371 kms, Mysore-696 kms, Pune-458 kms, Ratnagiri-263 kms, Vengurla-73 kms etc.


Sightseeing in Goa
» Goa Beaches : Beaches in Goa are a major source of attraction for the tourists from the world over and pull crowds in huge numbers. These beaches are still preserved in their unspoilt nature and personify the word “ Beauty”. Some of the major beaches in Goa are Anjuna Beach, Vagator Beach, Arambol Beach, Siridao Beach, Palolem Beach, Colva Beach, Dona Paula Beach, Miramar Beach and Benavali Beach.

» Goa Churches : Goa churches, mostly built during the Portuguese era are one of the major place of interest in Goa. Some of the must visit churches are - Cathedral Church, Ruins of Church of St. Augustine, The Church of St. Anne at Talaulim. Ilhas, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Reis Magos Church, St. Cajetan Church, Church of St. Francis of Assissi, Church of St Paul and Church of Mary Immaculate Conception. The displays a unique piece of architecture which is worth appreciating.

» Goa Cities : Goa cities reflect a style of their own. Panaji, Margao, Mapusa, Arambol, Vasco-da-Gama are the major cities of Goa and are famous among tourists for their natural beauty and untouched charm. All these cities have numerous places of attraction, which captivates tourists from far & wide.

» Goa Forts : Goa is also known to the world for its splendid forts. Fort Cabo da Rama, Fort Chapora, Fort Aguada and Fort Terekhol are major forts in the state of Goa and showcases some of the most charming artistry of the gone years. The glory of gone Portuguese era are very clearly marked in these forts of Goa.

» Goa Wildlife : Goa is rich in wildlife and there are various parks and sanctuaries maintained here to preserve the wildlife. Some of these are Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and Catigao Wildlife Sanctuary.


Shopping in Goa
Sopping in Goa can be a great experience as bargaining is prevalent in most of the markets and one can buy great stuff at low prices. The local handicrafts of Goa are the most popular souvenir items and include brassware, terracotta, shell work, crochet, carved furniture, bamboo work, papier-mache, etc. These are available in the Government Emporia and also at shops and stalls near the popular tourist spots.
Cashew nuts are purchased here in large amounts as they are of high quality and are available at reasonable prices.
The traditional markets of the Goan towns and villages reflect the ethnic culture and offer a glimpse of the typical Goan way of doing business. Mapusa and Anjuna are the two most sought after markets where at the Friday Market at Mapusa stalls sell everything from curios and old coins to dried fish and spices and the Wednesday Market at Anjuna Beach sells souvenirs, beachwear, trinkets and handicrafts sold at bargain prices.


Accommodation in Goa
Goa is a place where there is no dearth of accommodation facilities with the entire range from budget to luxury facilities available here.
Some of the good hotels in the state of Goa are :
» Holiday Inn Resort ( 5 star)
» Holiday Inn Hotel (5 star )
» Nanu Resorts ( luxury beach resort)
» Baga Beach Hotels ( 5 star)
» Baga Beach Resorts ( 5 star )