TOWNS IN GOA

PANAJI

PANAJI is one of India's smallest and most pleasant state capital. Located on the south bank of the wide Mandovi river, it officially became the capital of Goa in 1843. The town is worth a visit as it has a lot to offer the new as well the old. In the oldest part of the town, the Portuguese heritage has survived remarkably well; there are narrow winding streets, old houses with overhanging balconies and red tiled roofs, whitewashed Churches and numerous small bars and cafes.

MARGAO

MARGAO is the main town of South Goa, even though rapid urbanization has transformed Margao, it still retains some of the old Portuguese grandeur. There are some of the old magnificent houses that remain well maintained. The richly decorated Church of the Holy Spirit is worth the visit. The main bus stand which is about 1.5 Kms away from the main town acts as a main transport center for the people of South Goa. Margao has gained more significance with the opening of the Konkan railway, which is the main railway terminus at South Goa

PONDA

PONDA, the administrative headquarters of the taluka,
is situated 28kms southeast of Panaji and 17kms northeast of Margao.The Panaji-Bangalore national highway NH4 passes through Ponda. Its proximity to some of the state's largest iron ore mines has lead to spring up of small factories and industrial estates on the outskirts of the town. One of the main tourists attraction is the Safa masjid, Goa's best preserved sixteen-century Muslim monument.

MAPUSA

MAPUSA is the largest urban center of north Goa has made a mark due to the exotic weekly bazaars that are held in these town. Every Friday people ( Goans, tourists ) flock here to buy anything from an old brass lamp to garments, or even have a glimpse of how trade takes place at this famous market.

VASO-DA-GAMA

VASCO-DA-GAMA is the port city of Goa

LIST OF BEACHES, Goa (India)

Agonda
Aramabol
Anjuna
Baga
Benaulim
Betul
Betalbatim
Bogmalo
Calangute
Candolim
Cavelossim
Colva
Dona Paula
Majorda
Miramar
Mobor
Palolem
Vagator
Varca

SALIGAO CHURCH, Goa (India)

The Church of Mae de Deus was built in 1873. Situated 13kms. from Panaji amidst picturesque surroundings, in the village of Saligao. It is a fine example of Gothic architecture. The shrine of the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus (Mother of God) was brought from the ruins of the convent of Mae de Deus at Old Goa. This beautiful church is the finest piece of Gothic style. The church is well illuminated at night.

PALOLEM BEACH, Goa (India)

Palolem is probably Goa's most beautiful and idyllic beach. The whole beach is hemmed at both ends by rock crags. At normal tide, its water depth is just 4 feet till 1 km into the sea.

About 42 kms. from Margao, Palolem beach is an impossibly beautiful palm-fringed cove of white sand unspoilt compared to the beaches of Salcete and north Goa It is fast emerging as a popular spot for day-trippers from Colva and Calangute . Just west of Chaudi it is one of the most enchanting beaches in Goa relatively deserted, with backdrop of western ghats situated in Southern Taluka of Canacona. This recent find is fast developing into a tourist destination with springing up of hotels and guest houses. There are restaurants, travel agents some even provide facilities like boating, money exchange, internet surfing and e-mail facilities

MOBOR BEACH, Goa (India)

This is a small stretch of beach along the south of Colva beach and Cavelossim beach along the south Goa coastline. It was an isolated beach until recently and currently boast of five star resorts

Mobor lies on a narrow spit of sand dunes between the Arabian Sea and Assolna River Estuary. Of the full 10 km stretch, the Mobor Beach is perhaps the most happening and popular holiday destination in Goa.

Mobor Beach is a beautiful beach at the end of the 10 kilometer long sand beach stretching all the way from Colva, very popular among the tourists. The pristine and serene beach is ideal for those who want a break from the madness of the city. Just relax with lot of sun tan lotion and get a marvelous tan on your skin. Relish the authentic Goan cuisine and fresh seafood at the beach side joints at very reasonable prices. There are provision of beach umbrellas and reclining beach chairs for the convenience of the tourists.

DUDH-SAGAR WATER FALL

As you go to the eastern fringe of Goa you will be magnetized by the most impressive waterfalls. Measuring a gigantic 600 mts from head to foot, are the famous waterfalls called ‘DUDHSAGAR’. Overlooking a steep, falcate-shaped head of a valley carpeted with pristine tropical forest, Dudhsagar waterfalls nestles amid splendid scenery that is only accessible one foot or by train. Its spectacular sight attracts a steady stream of visitors from the coast into the rugged Western Ghats. The headwaters of the Mandovi River form a foaming torrent that fans into three streams, and then cascades down a near-vertical cliff into a deep green pool. Water dives hundreds of feet in large volume, in cascades, forming one of the popular destinations for hikers and trekkers. Dudhsagar waterfalls are situated at a distance of 60 kms from Panaji and 10 kms from Colem Railway station.

DONA - PAULA, Goa (India)

DONA PAULA, named after Dona Paula de Menezes, the Dona Paula beach is popularly known as the "Lovers Paradise" due to a myth that has been attached to this place. According one legend the Viceroy's daughter after facing objections from her family about her love affair with a poor fisherman jumped of the cliff.

Another legend says that punished for captivating Francisco de Tavora, the Count of Alvor with her charm the Viceroy's daughter was pushed off a cliff to drown in the waters below. Her irrepressible spirit still continues to haunt every visitor with legends of her lovers. She is even supposed to have been seen emerging from moonlit waves wearing only a pearl necklace.

ANJUNA FLEA MARKET, GOA (INDIA)

Once just a backpacker and hippy hangout selling kaftans and chillums. The Anjuna Flea Market is now more commercial with a broad range of goods on sale. Traders from all over India come to sell their wares. Lamani women from Karnataka dressed in their traditional garb sell colourful, elaborately woven clothes, Kashmiri stalls display silver and papier mache boxes and Tibetans preside over orderly rows of sundry Himalayan curios. Even if not planning to haggle for anything the market is a great place to watch the world go by and mingle with bands of musicians, snake charmers, beggars and the inevitable juggling hippies.

During the Wednesday flea market, people come from the beaches all over Goa. There is a large selection of items for sale, and the place has a fascinating atmosphere in its setting amid the palm trees and next to the sea. It is an interesting experience.

If you want to look hip at the all-night parties, this is definitely the place to get outfitted. There is a good selection of clothes (Indonesian styles, etc.) sold or designed by Westerners (they often carry European price tags). You may want to look out for the European-type jewelry made by foreigners, which is often good and cannot be found in any other place in India.

If you plan on buying Rajasthani or Nepali goods, note that the items from these places sold at the flea markets are often double the price you would pay in either Rajasthan or Nepal.

You can get all types of clothes, Nepali goods, Tibetan goods, embroidered items, incense, a good selection of jewelry, semiprecious stones, crystals, fancy knives, handicrafts, hammocks, bedspreads, and other items at the flea market. There are also several people who sell the latest techno tapes, and there are good places to eat Indian, Israeli, or Western food. There are Ayurvedic doctors, professional hair cutters and colorers (foreigners), dreadlocks makers, and nose and body piercers. You can have your hair cut and painted in any style imaginable. You can also have different designs painted on your body which look like tattoos, but which last only a few weeks. I was quoted Rs 150 for temporary henna tattoo, but bargained them down to Rs 50. Even if you don’t purchase anything, you will enjoy walking around. If you do plan to buy, be prepared to bargain hard.

The flea market opens around 8 am and closes at 6 pm. It is busiest in the early afternoon. Fishing boats depart from Baga to the market—Rs 50 (approximately USD 1)for the trip. Tour buses and taxis come from all over Goa.

ANJUNA BEACH, GOA

Anjuna was the haunt of the flower generation in the seventies - and is popular with the cyber generation too. At Anjuna Beach, you can shop till you drop

This is a popular beach of north Goa. It gets very busy in Anjuna from November onwards with tourists of varied types flocking to this otherwise simple village. The atmosphere here during the peak season surprises as it a favorite destination of the hippies and backpackers since the 70's.
Anjuna gets inundated especially on Wednesdays with folks of backpackers, round-the-world travelers, etc. for the famous flea market that has become a must visit event for anyone traveling to Goa. The merchandise mainly consists of jewellary, clothes, appliqué work, papier-mâché boxes, turquoise bracelets, you name it and you find it there. Accommodation in Anjuna is not as furnished as one would find at other beach destinations of Goa. but nevertheless finding a place during peak seasons can be really difficult. There are guest-houses and small average hotels who would rather welcome someone willing to stay for a couple of months. Same with the restaurants, although there are plenty of them along the way.

GOA TOURISM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION LTD (A Government of Goa Undertaking) HOTELS AND RESORTS

ADVANCE BOOKING AND CONTACT ADDRESS

Goa Tourism Development Corporation Ltd
(Government of Goa undertaking)
Trionora Apartments, Dr, Alvaris Costa Road,
Panaji Goa
Phone: 00 91 832 2224132, 2226728, 2226515, 2436666
Fax: 00 91 832 2423926
E-mail: gtdcorp@sancharnet.in, goatour@sancharnet.in
Website: http://www.goatourism.org

MAYEM RESIDENCY
No. of rooms: 17
Phone: 00918322362144
Location: Situated amidst rolling green hills, the resort is an ideal picnic spot and an eco resort. It is 49 kms from Dabolim Airport (via Chorao), 15 kms from Tivim Railway station and 19 kms from Panaji city.
Its restaurant offers Goan, Indian and continental cuisine.

MIRAMAR RESIDENCY
No. of rooms: 60
Phone: 00 91 832 2464154, 2463811
Located right on Miramar beach, the resort is 30 kms from Dabolim Airport, 3 km from Panaji city, 14 kms from Karmali (Old Goa) railway station and 40 kms from Margao railway station.
Facilities include a restaurant offering Indian, Chinese and seafood cuisine, room service, laundry etc.


CALANGUTE RESIDENCY
No. of rooms: 58
Phone: 00 91 832 2276024, 2276109
Located on Calangute beach, the resort is 45 kms from Dabolim Airport, 16 km from Panaji city, 17 kms from Tivim railway station and 50 kms from Margao railway station.
Facilities include a restaurant offering Goan, Indian, and continental cuisine, room service etc.


CALANGUTE RESIDENCY
(Annexe) New Extension
No. of rooms: 30
Phone: 00 91 832 2276009
Location: Just 200 meters from Calangute beach is the Calangute Annexe which also has a restaurant.

COLVA RESIDENCY
No. of rooms: 47
Phone: 00 91 832 2788047, 2788048
location: Next to Cova Beach. 25 kms from Dabolim Airport and 8 kms from margao railway station.
Facilities include a restaurant offering Goan, Indian and Continental cuisine. Also room service an

MAP OF GOA

INDIA

Population: 1.1 billion (UN, 2005)
Capital: New Delhi
Area: 3.1 million sq km (1.2 million sq miles), excluding Indian-administered Kashmir (100,569 sq km/38,830 sq miles)
Major languages: Hindi, English and 17 other official languages
Major religions: Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism
Life expectancy: 62 years (men), 65 years (women) (UN)
Monetary unit: 1 Indian Rupee = 100 paise

LAKES, WATER FALLS, TREKKING, CAMPING, BACKWATER CRUISES IN GOA

Goa is not only blessed with beaches, but also by meandering rivers and scenic lakes. These captivating bounties of water make Goa an ideal location for quiet, romantic boat cruising and in variety from Backwater Thrills and Daytime, Sunset or Moonlight cruises for the romantic. And for the adventurous at heart there are crocodile cruises for an unforgettable experience.

MAYEM LAKE

Just 35 kms from Panaji city is ‘MAYEM LAKE’, encircled by rolling rush green hills, an ideal picnic spot. In fact those interested in experiencing a bit of the rural water with geese and pedal boats and cottages hidden in the wooded slopes. Enjoy the mind-riveting sight of the old Goan houses with red-tiled roofs and balustrade balconies. The people there are very cordial and allow most people to know what’s happening in the village. Good accommodation facilities are available in the cottages.

CARAMBOLIM LAKE

On the Eastern side of Old Goa is the picture-perfect ‘CARAMBOLIM LAKE’. The lake is lily-covered and has an enormous amount of waterfowls. The Carambolim Lake is regarded as the bird-watchers paradise. Many Egrets and Heron, Bronze-winged and Pheasant tailed Jacana and thousands of exotic species such as Comb Duck and Cotton Pygmy-goose migrate here. You may also sight Open-billed storks, Purple and Grey Heron, Little Cormorant and Marsh Harriers. Be sure to carry your binoculars when you visit ‘CARAMBOLIM LAKE’

WATERFALLS

DUDHSAGAR WATERFALLS

As you go to the eastern fringe of Goa you will be magnetized by the most impressive waterfalls. Measuring a gigantic 600 mts from head to foot, are the famous waterfalls called ‘DUDHSAGAR’. Overlooking a steep, falcate-shaped head of a valley carpeted with pristine tropical forest, Dudhsagar waterfalls nestles amid splendid scenery that is only accessible one foot or by train. Its spectacular sight attracts a steady stream of visitors from the coast into the rugged Western Ghats. The headwaters of the Mandovi River form a foaming torrent that fans into three streams, and then cascades down a near-vertical cliff into a deep green pool. Water dives hundreds of feet in large volume, in cascades, forming one of the popular destinations for hikers and trekkers. Dudhsagar waterfalls are situated at a distance of 60 kms from Panaji and 10 kms from Colem Railway station.

ARVALEM WATERFALLS

Situated in Sanquelim 35-40 kms from Panaji city, the waterfall which cascades down the mountain from a height of 50 mts is one of the most breathtaking spots in Goa. Formed at the end of a small gorge, Arvalem is worth viewing especially during the monsoons. The rock-cut caves are just situated nearby. The Government has also developed a park from where the view of the waterfall can be fully enjoyed. The ancient caves in the vicinity add a touch of antiquity to this pictorial place. The Arvalem waterfalls finds a major attraction for the film-makers as a favourite shooting spot.

TREKKING

Goa’s captivating landscape, with an incomparable diversity of flora and fauna indeed, is a refreshing treat to the trekkers. Its eye-catching and heart touching, spectacular views of nature, offers exciting trekking options. Guided tour options are available for beginners, but if you are well versed with the great outdoors and have a streak of the adventure animal in you, then venture out into the forests and hinterlands of Goa for an unforgettable trekking experience. (Contact Hiking and Trekking Association, Goa and Youth Hostel, Miramar)

FOOD IN GOA

With a creative mix of traditional and western recipes, the hunting flavours of Goan cuisine will unforgettably tantalize your taste buds. Blessed with an abundance of seafood, the Goans find world class Jumbo Prawns, lobsters, crabs and pomfrets along the coastline and magically turn them into a variety of soups, salads, pickles, curries, and fries. Then there are the innumerable chutneys and ‘Racheado Masala’ that are typical of the state. From sea side eating joints to 5 star hotels fresh seafood and meats are dished up in exotic abundance: Fish Curry, Sorpotel (a pork dish), Chicken Xacutti, Chilli crabs, Tuna Salad, Prawns and crispy Mussel Fritters are few of the Goan delicacies. A coconut based traditional sweets and deserts are wonder from Goa’s kitchen.

Indeed a trip to Goa cannot be complete without feasting on the local delicacies.

THE FOOD CULTURE

The staple food of Gao is ‘Fish Curry and Rice’, among Hindus, Muslims and Catholics. But the main difference in the food habits of these communities that the Christian also eat beef and pork which are forbidden in Hindu and Muslim households. Goan food is spicy in nature and is a blend of Indian, Brazalian and the Portuguese cuisines.

SIMPLY INDULGE

After a heavy meal, relax over a glassful of Kokum curry, a tasty aperitif made from Kokum and coconut milk. Along with other homemade beverages is the famous ‘FENI’, an aperitif to precede all Goan food. Earlier the Goan distilled this from the fermented sap of the coconut flower-stalk, but, later they also made it from the fruit of the cashew tree. The Goans are as emotional about their FENI as they are about the cuisine.

FOR THE SWEET TOOTH

For those with a sweet tooth, Goan cuisine offers the famous ‘BEBINCA’. Made from eggs, coconut milk, flour and sugar, each of the scrumptious 16 layers of this sweet delicacy is baked to perfection. Other sweets include soft jaggery flavoured fudge called ‘DODOL’ made from finger-licking palm-sap jaggery, rice flour, and coconut. During Hindu festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, cone-shaped dumplings called “MODAK” are a favourite fare.

FROM THE GOURMET’S DIARY

Rice, Fish and Coconut are the basic components of the typical Goan food platter. Delicacies made from these three ingredients can be expected in nearly every Goan meal. Another essential ingredient in Goan cooking is coconut milk made by grating the white flesh of a coconut and soaking it in a cup of warm water. Equally important is the ‘Kokum’, a sour deep red colored fruit that gives the food a sharp and tangy flavour.

CHURCHES AND MONUMENTS OF GOA

BASILICA OF BOM JESUS

Basilica of Bom Jesus represents the rich and varied heritage of Goa. This church is one of the most famous churches in Goa. It stands as the best example of baroque architecture. The church of Bom Jesus “Good” or “Infant Jesus” is well distinguished originally for the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. The mortal remains of St. Francis, which was brought to Goa, almost two years after his death, still remains at the Basilica Of Bom Jesus, in a silver casket containing an airtight glass coffin. The church is frequented by a large number of tourists.

SE CATHEDRAL

Se Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Goa. The construction reflects the Portuguese – Gothic style with a Tuscan exterior and Corinthian interior. Initially there were two towers one of which collapsed in 1776. The other one boasts of having the “Golden Bell”, which is the largest bell in Goa. The tinling sound of the bell has given it the name “Golden bell”. The main alter is dedicated to St. Catherine and walls are painted with the scenes from her life. Its even said that your trip to Goa is incomplete unless you visit the Se cathedra.

CHURCH OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI

Church of Saint Francis of Assisi has a great historical significance. It was built in 1661 on the place where the Franciscans had built a small chapel, which was then pulled down. The church is perhaps one of the most significant buildings in Old Goa. It contains gilded and carved woodwork, and old murals depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis. The convent that is adjacent to the Church has been converted into an Archaeological museum. This museum has a rich collection of Portraits of Portuguese Viceroys and fragments of sculptures from Hindu sites. Be there to see history speak of its glorious past.

REIS MAGOS CHURCH

The Reis Magos church at Verem, was constructed in 1555. It is one of the earliest churches built in Goa and the first in Bardez taluka. This great piece of archaic is dedicated to three magi-Kings (Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar). This church was once the residence of all dignitaries and also a mission centre of the Franciscan order. On your visit here, be sure to also see the majestic fort that stands next to this church.

NUNNERY OF SAINT MONICA

Once known as the Royal monastery, this three-storied baroque architecture was built in 1627 only to be burnt down nine years later. After being reconstructed it has withstood the test of time. At present Mater Dei Institute as a nunnery, is using the building. Visitors are allowed here only if in a formal dress code. The western sidewalls have few fading murals. This magnificence from the past is a must-see place.

THE CHURCH OF MAE DE DEUS

Built in 1873, the famous Church of Mae De Deus at Saligao, is situated amidst picturesque surroundings. The shine of the miraculous state of Mae de Deus (Mother of God) was brought from the ruins of the convent of Mae de Deus at Old Goa. This beautiful church is the finest piece of Gothic style of architecture.

ST. JEROME’S CHURCH

The church was built in 1594 on the remains of the chief pagoda of the place, whose idol was removed to Dargalim. It has 3 altars. The main one is dedicated to Our Lady of Miracles, whose statue with the child Jesus is clothed in golden cloth and placed prominently above the main altar. The ceiling of this St. Jerome’s church is intricately patterned with strips of wood. Both Hindu and Christians hold Our Lady of Miracles in great veneration. A trip to St. Jerome’s Church at Mapusa is simply breathtaking.

FORTS

FORT AGUADA

The Fortress of Aguada, erected in 1612, encircles the entire peninsula at the south-western extremity of the Bardez taluka in North Goa.

The walls of the fort skirt the seashore and ascend the summit of the bare and rocky headland called the Aguada Point, 260 feet above the level of the sea. Situated 10 kms north of Panaji, the Aguada fort has the first lighthouse of Asia. It was built in 1612 to protect Old Goa by controlling the entry of intruders into the River Mandovi. The fort was equipped with an ammunition room, barracks and a church. Once it was a place of Portuguese strength and power. Today, a part of this majestic fort serves as the Central Jail of Goa. The other part of the fort Aguada is open for tourist all-around the year.

ST. AUGUSTINE’S TOWER

Built in 1602, the only ruin of the Church of St. Augustine on the Holy Hill at Old Goa near the Nunnery is a lofty 46 meter high tower defying the torrential rains. This is the only existing tower of the four of St. Augustine Church that once stood here. There were eight richly embellished chapels and four altars and a convent with numerous cells and artistic columns attached to the church.

CABO DE RAMA

Situated on the southern coast of Goa, this fort has been under the regime of various rulers until the Portuguese took it over from the Raja of Sonda in 1763. After taking charge of the fort, the Portuguese rebuilt it but did not put it to much use thereafter. It came under the British rule from 1797 to 1802 and then again from 1803 to 1813. The remains of the fort were then used as a prison until 1955. Though the church within the fort is still in use, there is little of the fort that remains to be seen today. However, the view from headland is breathtaking. Legend has it that the fort has derived its name from Lord Rama who remained here for a while when he was in exile along with his wife Sita.

CHAPORA FORT

The Portuguese had secured their rule in Goa but the threat from the Muslim and Maratha rulers persisted. To protect themselves from this risk, the Portuguese built the Chapora fort in 1617. They had a number of conflicts with the Maratha and finally in 1717, the Maratha withdrew their force. The Portuguese then took over again and rebuilt the fort. The new structure of the fort was equipped with underground tunnels that ensured a safe gateway in case of emergency.

Today one can see the heads of the escape tunnels built by the Portuguese. Be their to witness history linger on.

TEREKHOL FORT

Situated on the Terekhol River, this fort, built in the 17th century, lies on the northern trip of Goa. It was then rebuilt in 1764.

Today, the remains of the fort have been converted into a hotel – the Terekhol Fort Heritage. However, the St. Anthony’s church inside the fort still remains. The fort is worth giving at least one visit.