Goa, in western India, is one of the best
holiday destinations in the country and a very popular one. It is that perfect
beachside state with a happy overabundance of beaches and plenty of water
sports to go with. Major Goa beaches like the Calangute, Candolim, Vagator,
Anjuna and Colva are not only beautiful but many of them are quite
commercialized. They offer sporting retreats like scuba diving, parasailing,
snorkeling, banana boating, scooting and so on. Goa has over 40 beaches but
each has its own flavor and has no resemblance with the other. Some are noted
for their sunsets while some are notorious for their rockiness. And there are
others like the Dona Paula which have apocryphal legendary tales of undying
(and scandalous) romance associated with them.
Away from the sun-drenched beaches, Goa is
a potpourri of heritage architecture, beautiful markets, lovely food and an
even lovelier culture. Saturday Night’s Ingo Bazaar is a must-stop for any
shopper and the churches and chapels of Old Goa should be visited for their
nostalgia and chastity. The state has other attractions too. There are those
dilapidated but still-domineering forts punctuating the length & breadth of
the state; a few wildlife parks would also grab your attention, and the waterfalls
like the Dudhsagar are always worthy of a visit.
In short, Goa is that perfect place where
everyone can have his share of fun.
Best time to visit Goa: November-March
Major Goa attractions:
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Basilica of Bom Jesus
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Anjuna Beach
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Baga Beach
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Calangute Beach
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Aguada Fort
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Se Cathedral
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Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife
Sanctuary
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Ingo’s Saturday Night Market
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Chapora Fort
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Dudhsagar Falls
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Salem Ali Bird Sanctuary
Traveler’s tip: If you wish to cut down your hotel & flight bills (by as much
as 50%), then plan a Goa trip during the lean season between April and
September.
Resources: Goa Tourism Guide http://www.weareholidays.co.in/travel-guide/goa-tourism