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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.Variously known as "Pearl of the Orient" and a "Tourist Paradise", the state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan.The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. But then, Goa is much more than just beaches and sea. It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer. Much of the real Goa is in its interiors, both inside its buildings and in the hinterland away from the coastal area.
Quick Facts about the City
Location: Goa is located on the western coast of the Indian Peninsula and separated from Maharashtra by the Terekhol River in the north, Karnataka in the south, the Western Ghats in the east and Arabian Sea in the west.
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.Variously known as "Pearl of the Orient" and a "Tourist Paradise", the state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan.The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. But then, Goa is much more than just beaches and sea. It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer. Much of the real Goa is in its interiors, both inside its buildings and in the hinterland away from the coastal area.Quick Facts about the City
Location: Goa is located on the western coast of the Indian Peninsula and separated from Maharashtra by the Terekhol River in the north, Karnataka in the south, the Western Ghats in the east and Arabian Sea in the west.
- STD Code:91 (country dialling code), and 083, most numbers in Goa are still seven digits.
- Area: 3660 sq km
- Capital City: Panaji
- Airport: Dabolim (29kms from Panaji)
- People: Goans
- Religion: Hindu, Christian and Muslim
- Time: Five and a half hours ahead of GMT.
State
This 500 year old Portuguese enclave moved from Union Territory status to become India's 25th state. The state of Maharashtra borders Goa on the north, the state of Karnataka on the south and east. The vast expanse of the Arabian Sea on the west forms the magnificent coastline for which Goa is justly famous.
General Info & History
General Information:
Blend of East & West -- Goa's 450 years under Portuguese domination produced a unique, syncretize blend of East and West that is at once exotic
and strangely familiar: Christmas and Carnival are celebrated as enthusiastically by the 30-percent Goan Christian population as Diwali and Durga puja are by the Goan Hindus. The state's separate identity is discernible in other ways too, most visibly in its Latinate architecture, but also in a preference for a fish-and meat-rich cuisine. Another marked difference is the prevalence of alcohol. Beer is cheap, and six thousand or more bars around the state are licensed to serve it, along with the more traditional tipples of feni, the local hootch, and toddy, a derivative of palm sap. Being the highest literate state in the union territory of India, Goa has come along way now from just being a beach haven. Apart for its distinctiveness, progress in fields of Education, Information Technology and Industry have scaled to new heights and all round development. But still a lot needs to be done as bureaucracy is seen as the major hindrance towards all round development of the state.
History:
Legends from Hindu mythology credit Lord Parshuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu with the creation of Goa. Over the centuries various dynasties have ruled Goa.
Rashtrakutas, Kadambas, Silaharas, Chalukyas, Bahamani Muslims and most famously the Portuguese have been rulers of Goa. Goa was liberated by the Indian Army from Portuguese colonisation on December 19, 1961 and became an Union Territory along with the enclaves of Daman and Diu. On May 30, 1987 Goa was conferred statehood and became the 25th state of the Indian Republic. Having been the meeting point of races, religions and cultures of East and West over the centuries, Goa has a multi-hued and distinctive lifestyle quite different from the rest of India. Hindu and Catholic communities make up almost the entire population with minority representation of Muslims and other religions. All the communities have mutual respect towards one another and their secular outlook has given Goa a long and an unbroken tradition of religious harmony. The warm and tolerant nature of the Goans allows them to celebrate and enjoy the festivals of various religions such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, Christmas, Easter and Id with equal enthusiasm.
Best Season to Visit
Goa's lifestyle is best experienced during the winter months between October and end of February.
At any other time, you're likely to either roast under the sun or find yourself threatened by the downpour of the seasonal monsoon rains that lash the state between the months: June - August and a little in September. The months of January, February and March are the best for witnessing Hindu festivals and celebrations. January has the colourful festival of Shantadurga Prassana, February, the 3-day zatra of Shri Mangueshi, and in March is the festival of Holi, called Shigmo. The month of March, 'Carnival' - is an event celebrated by Goan Christian community. It is a 3-day festival of fun and merry making and colourful floats, a 3 day orgy just before the 40-day Lenten period of fasting. Huge parades through the cities are organised with bands, floats and dances and balls in the evenings. The final day concludes with the famous red-and-black dance held by the Clube Nacional in Panjim. The origins of carnival are apparently the hedonistic feasts of ancient Rome and Greece. It made its appearance in the Spanish and Portuguese colonies, where it metamorphosed into the very Latin singing-dancing. The carnival is presided over by King Momo, who on the opening day declares the countdown to fun and merry making. Hotel bookings must be done in advance for carnival as the festival attracts thousands of tourists.
Climate/Temperature
Being a coastal state, Goa has a maritime climate with moderate temperature throughout the year. Temperatures soar in the months of April and May and drops a bit during the rains when the South West Monsoons drench Goa. Thereafter Goa chills down considerably during the months of January and February.
Local Language
Languages spoken: English is widely spoken and understood. Konkani (The Official State language) and Hindi are the other languages used for communication.
Cue Words
Just remember the golden words refer to yourself as hum and address people with a ji after their names, that should get you by most problems, but otherwise Hindi and Punjabi are the most widely spoken languages, and English is well understood. Car and auto drivers can normally speak in broken English, but speak to them in hindi and you will get a better rate.
How to get there
Goa is well connected to the rest of the country and beyond because of its very efficient rail service and very competitive road and air transport services. The two major railway stations in Goa.- Vasco da Gama (South Central Railway terminus) and Margao (Konkan Railway terminus)over two hours away from Panaji are where most of the outstation trains stop. Travelers going to Baga, Calangute or Panjim get off en route. The two major highways that connect Goa to the rest of India are the NH-17 and NH-4.They are a boon to the interstate luxury bus travel companies, and individuals who love to drive down to Goa. The Dabolim airport which is 30 minutes from Panaji and 20 minutes from Madgaon,is where both international and domestic flights operate.
This is how fast it takes to reach Mumbai from some important places
Air
City (From GoaTo) Distance
Mumbai - 01 hrs
Bangalore - 01hr 5mins
Pune - 00hrs.50mins
Chennai - 02hrs.40mins
New Delhi - 02hrs.30mins
Kozhikode - 01hr. 5mins.
Ahmedabad - 01hr.25mins
Kolkata - 02hrs.30mins
Rail
City Distance in Rail Time
Mumbai - 11 hrs 45 min
Vadodara - 19 hrs
Hyderabad - 9 hrs 30 mins
Pune - 8 hrs
Bangalore - 14 hrs 30min
New Delhi - 44 hrs
Road
By Road In Kms Drive
Mumbai - 597 km - 11 hrs
Bangalore - 632 km - 13 hrs
Pune - 471 km - 8 hrs
Mangalore - 371 km - 10 hrs
Mysore - 677 km - 16 hrs
Travel Within Goa
Traveling in and around Goa is quite an experience. A common misconception is that Goa is small and easy to get around. On the contrary, the drive from north to south takes about four hours, and moving from one beach to the next could take you between half an hour to one hour.
Having a vehicle at your disposal is convenient and saves you the drudgery of walking long distances. Watch out for those winding roads through coconut groves, areca palms, banana plantations and rice fields.
You can rent a car, hire a two-wheeler, take a bus or an auto rickshaw. If you have arrived by plane then know that the
Dabolim airport is half an hour away from both Panaji, and Mudgaon and about 45minutes to an hour away from Calangute and Colva. If you have pre-booked your hotel accommodation then the hotel will provide you with a complimentary transfer. If not then the pre-paid taxi tourist taxi booking counter (Tel: 0832 - 2541235) is the place you must line up at for a taxi. For more comfortable travel you can make inquiries at the taxi information counter near the exit of the airport about air conditions 'white taxis' like Cielo and Esteem. These charge almost 20%more than the yellow cabs. Those arriving by train can get taxis or tourist 'white vans' outside the station. If you are traveling light then motorcycle pilots outside the airport will take you anyplace for one fourth the fare of the taxi. An important thing to remember is that you have to bargain over the fare before taking a taxi or a bike. For instance Karmali to Panaji (10kms) should cost you RS100 by auto rickshaw and RS 100 by taxi.
There are buses, but most of these ply to the city and back along the main routes. They charge a minimum fare of RS 5. The local buses are known as 'Janta Buses'. Private operators also operate mini buses via several routes.
Hiring a motorcycle is popular with many travelers in Goa. Among those available are Enfields, Yamaha 100s and Kinetic Honda scooters.
These can be hired for a day or a week. The rentals for these vehicles are in the range of RS 200 (Kinetic Honda), RS 300 (bikes) and RS 500 (Enfield).You have to fill petrol and you may be required to give a photocopy of your driving license and in the case on non-Indian your passport and a sizeable deposit as security. If you are involved in an accident you'll be required to pay at least for the damage to the rented bike. Cars can be hired for the day or month at the Rate of RS 1000 a day and RS 15,000 a month for a Santro or Indica and RS 10,000 per month for a Maruti Van. Bicycle rentals involve less paper work. These can be hired in all the major towns and beaches of Goa for around RS 40 per day. Another way to travel around Goa is to take a ferry. Most ferries take 30 to 45 minutes and are flat bottomed so as to carry both passengers and vehicles. About 20 other ferry services operate in the state. These include: Panaji to Betim, Aldona to Corjuem, Pomburpa to Chorao, Amona to Khandola, Aronda to Kirapani, Ribandar to Divar, Assolna to Cavelossim, Carona to Calvim, Cortalim to Marcaim, Cortalim to Agassim, Siolem to Chopdem, and Querem to Terekhol Durbhat to Rassoi.
Accomodation
ablone resort
afanso guest house
aldeia santa rita
alidia beach resort
angelina beach resort
angels holiday resort
anjuna beach resort
anup holiday homes
avantika resort
bambolim beach resort
bean me up
beira mar alfran resort
calangute residency
caps corner
This are few among the list but list of hotels in goa-north but there is much more to offer in goa-south too.To name few of them,they are:
benema guesthouse
bogmallo beach resort
carina beach resort
castellos tourist nest
clarion the beach resort
club mahindra varca beach
coconut grove
colva residency
countryinn and suites
dercy cottages
Festivals
Goans truly enjoy themselves. The best part of the celebrations are that they are enjoyed without any caste or religious barriers. The biggest celebrations are at Panjim and Margao. Besides the traditional festivals there are also village feasts - each village in Goa has a patron saint who has his/her own feast day - which are quaint, colourful and charming local events.
Christian Festivals
6 January - Feast of three Kings at Reis Magos, Cansaulim and Chandor.
2 February - Feast of Our Lady of Candelaria at Pomburpa.
February/March - Mardi Gras Carnival.
Monday after 5 th Sunday in Lent - Procession of the Franciscan Order at Old Goa.
1st Sunday after Easter - Feast of Jesus at Siridao.
16 days after Easter - Feast of Our Lady of Miracles at Mapusa.
24 August - Festival of Novidades.
1st fortnight of October - Fama de Menino Jesus at Colva.
3rd Wednesday of November - Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary.
3rd December - Feast of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa. World Pilgrimage takes place every 10 years, when the Body of St.Francis Xavier, the spanish priest is exposed for public veneration.
8th December - Feast of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception at Panaji and Margao.
25 December - Christmas. X'mas Carol Singing at Kala Academy, Campal, Panjim
Hindu festivals
January - Shantadurga Prasann is celebrated at Fatorpa village, south of Margao. Drawing a crowd of lakhs, a night-time procession of chariots bearing the goddess is the prime attraction. During the colourful Umbrella Festival, at Cuncolim, south of Margao, a solid silver image of Shantadurga is carried in procession over the hills to the original temple site. The Shri Bodgeshwar zatra, or temple festival, takes place south of Mapusa.
February - the 3-day Shri Mangesh festival takes place in his temple in the Ponda district. In Panaji, the Maruti festival is another crowd-puller.
March - In Goa, the full-moon festival of Holi goes by the name of Shigmo. It is celebrated with big parades and crowds, drums and dance groups competing with huge floats. It's marketed as the "Hindu carnival" and festivities occur in the main towns in the state, much in the same manner as they do for the Mardi Gras Carnival.
May - Igitun Chalne is celebrated when dhoti-clad devotees of the goddess Lairai enter trances and walk over hot coals at the village of Sirigao, Bichloim.
August - Janmashtami is observed in Goa. Ritual bathing in the River Mandovi, off Diwadi Island, to celebrate the birth of Krishna.
August - Bonderam arrives on the fourth Saturday of August. A sort of carnival on the island of Divar in the Mandovi river. Bonderam means the festival of flags, as colourful processions and mock battles are staged in a recollection of the property wars that raged on this island till a century ago.
Sep/Oct - There are nine days of festivities in Dussehra when effigies are burned on bonfires, and children perform episodes from the life of Rama. Ganesh Chaturthi is also one of the biggest festival celebrated.
Oct/Nov - Diwali Narkasur, the five-day Hindu "festival of lights" features processions all over the region, often accompanied by fireworks, burning of effigies and the exchange of sweets by neighbours, regardless of their faith.
Muslim Festival
Urus of Shah Abdullah at Ponda - 17th Feb.
Religious Places
Goa has a bit of everything from churches to temples and mosques and gurudwara.
The Reis Magos Church,
built in AD 1555, was once a mission centre of the Franciscan Order of Monks. It's better known as the Church of the three kings.
The Church of Mae de Dens or Mother of God.
This ones' in Saligao, and stands amongst picturesque surroundings. The statue after whom this church was named once occupied a convent, which no longer exists, and was known for its miraculous powers. This church is a fine instance of Gothic architecture.
The Church of St. Anne
at Talaulin Iltias, affectionately called Santana by the people, is dedicated to the Mother of Mary. It is situated on the right bank of the Siridao River. While these Catholic institutions have survived the ravages of time, a visit to the ruins of lost churches, of which there are many, would help to discover further the truths of a remarkable period of religious activity on the shores of our country.
Church of Immaculate Conception
stands bang in the centre of Panjim city. Apart from the church, the largo da Igreja. The Largo da Igreja - (Church Square) is an impressive dazzling white-balustraded stairway
The cathedral in Old Goa
is a mighty 16th century monument to the Roman Catholic rule of Goa under the Portuguese. Its huge Golden Bell is amongst the biggest in the world. It has 14 side chapels; the last chapel, in Mauresque style, preserves a cross upon which a vision of Christ is said to have appeared in 1919.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
One of the largest churches of Old Goa, it is open 9 am to 12.30 pm and 3 pm to 6.30 pm. It houses a respected relic. The mortal remains of St Francis Xavier who in 1541 was entrusted with the task of spreading Christianity within the Portuguese colonies in the East. The remains are entombed in this basilica. The remains of St Francis are brought out for public display every few years.
Tambdi Surla Temple
It is the oldest temple in the whole of Goa and is located at a place called Tambi Surla, which is approximately 65 kms from the Panaji. The temple itself was built in Jain style in the twelfth century.
Mangueshi temple
No visit to Goa is complete without a visit to this famed temple. This is one of the best places to spot Lord Shiva's beard! India's famous singing Mangeshkar sisters come here often. This temple has a large courtyard and the largest ablution tank Goa has seen. What's beautiful here is the seven-storey deepmala that's lit up on Dasheera and Diwali days. Not everyone can enter right up to the lingam here, you need to be of a particular caste.
Laxmi Narsihma temple at Velinga
is a temple that's not really as yet on the tourist map, but it is beautiful, in the midst of woody settings this is an 18th century temple. Set to the hill side is a beautiful gateway that's fringed with palms, there's also the gaily painted manapam that has stout carved pillars with elephants and tigers riding on it. That's an interesting feature of all temples in Goa, the ceilings of each of these are beautifully coloured and carved.
Shree Damodar Temple
on the banks of the river Kushavati is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus and Christians alike. The waters of the river near the temple precincts are a cure for all ailments. Shree Damodar is known simply as Danubab by the faithful and he is, till today, the patron deity of Margao
Safa Masjid at Ponda
Yet another relic from the bygone days, the Safa Shahouri Masjid located at Ponda is among the biggest and the oldest mosque in Goa. It is the only remaining one in Ponda Taluka among the 26 mosques that were built by Ibrahim Adil Shah of Bijapur in 1560.
Gurudwara at Betim
Situated just opposite the fishing village is this lovely gurudwara that has a magnificent view of Panjim across the river.
Attractions
Goa's beaches, monuments, wildlife sanctuaries, art galleries, museums, the carnival, beat and beach shows, casinos, live gaming and exotic food make holidays here an experience to remember. North Goa and Panaji (the capital city) comprises the more commercialized and urban part of Goa while South Goa is more laid back offering its visitors the otherwise illusive luxury of relaxation and privacy.
Beaches in Goa
Goa is justifiably famous for its beaches.
Along its 120 odd km coastline are some of the most happening spots in the State. Whether in Calangute (North Goa) or the Varca beach (South Goa), the cream coloured sand still crunches under the feet. Despite the steady influx of tourists, Goa's beaches remain undisturbed and unspoilt. The beaches are filled with beach shacks and sun beds and the streets adjoining it are full of shops of all kinds. These include restaurants, clothes stalls, jewellery stores, handicraft shops, beach bars, souvenir shops, massage centers, gyms, swimming pools, Internet cafes, nightclubs, etc.
The North Goa beaches include Miramar (Goa's chowpatty lined with fast food stalls, Known for its beach shows and year end open-air movie screenings. Goa's elite lives here.).
Anjuna (Known for its hippie atmosphere, rave and acid parties and the Wednesday flea market.),
Baga and Calangute (known for the best food shacks, bars and budget guesthouses), Vagator, Sinquerim, Candolim (The Taj Hotels occupy most of this stretch), Morjim (The nesting ground for Olive Ridley Turtles) and Arambol (Known for its hot water springs, and fresh water lake nearby. Also a favourite spot for paragliding). These were once hippie haunts, but are now developed and attract tourists from all over. The beaches in South Goa are at Colva (Formerly a hippie beach, now a regular tourist hub), Benaulim ( beach shacks/restaurants serve you on the sand), Velsao, Betalbatim Cavelossim, Varca, Mobor, Betul ( Quieter beaches lined by five star hotels and resorts), and Palolem (crescent shaped sandy beach facing a shallow lagoon created by a small island hillock).. The Majorda beach is the largest one with a stretch of 20 kms connecting it to the Cabo de Rama. The Bogmalo beach is a secluded beach situated 4kms from the airport is bounded by green hills on three sides.
Broadly speaking, north Goa has the busier resorts, and a more colourful nightlife, while South Goa has the more elite and expensive hotels and usually draws the kind of tourist ready to pay for that much cherished bit of tranquility.
The Goan Carnival
Goa is better known for its beaches and the Carnival in February. It has been celebrated since the 18th century Goa before the Lenten season of abstinence begins. Another Portuguese bequest, over the years it has turned into a very Latin singing-dancing-drinking celebrations. Though the event lasts for three days before Lent, preparations for the festival begin early in December. Huge colourful parades take to the streets and a king (King Momo) is elected to preside over the festivities. Street plays, song and competitions and exhibitions, cultural events and a host of programmes are organized. On day three Clube Nacional, Panaji hosts the famous red-and-black dance. You cannot attend unless you wear the colours of the dance. The carnival is a well attended event by people within and outside the country so booking hotel reservations must be made at least two months in advance.
Museums in Goa
Goa draws a lot of Art and Culture buffs to its museums and
galleries that display a vast collection of more than 8000 objects includes wooden objects, bronzes, paintings, anthropological objects, clay models, sculptures, manuscripts and numismatic collections. These not only cover the historical and cultural heritage of the state, but also display the handiwork of local talent.
The popular museums and art galleries in Goa are the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery in Old Goa (Tel: 0832 - 2285333. Open 10am to 5 pm. Mon-Fri). Goa State Museum, in Patto Panaji (0832 - 2438006. Open 9.30am to 1 pm and 2pm to 5.30pm. Mon -Fri.), The Museum of Christian Art, Old Goa (Open 9.30 am and 5 pm.), The Naval Aviation Museum, Dabolim, The Galleria de Icons at Agakhan Khan, street, Margao. (Tel 0832-2730835. Open between 9 am to 1.30pm and 2.30 pm to 6pm. Monday to Saturday), Big Foot gallery and Local handicrafts Centre, Loutolim (Telo832- 2777034. Open 9am to 6pm). There are also galleries at Se cathedral, St Francis of Assisi, Convent and Basilica of Bom Jesus.
Wildlife and Bird Sanctuaries in Goa
Away from the gleaming sun kissed beaches, into the mainland, Goa goes green
and alive with the beauty of her flora and fauna. The little state has four wild-life sanctuaries that can be visited all year round. They are the Bhagwan Mahavir Wild Life Sanctuary, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Cortigao Wild Life Sanctuary and Bondla Wild Life Sanctuary. Situated along the northeast border (Panaji-Belgaum Highway) at Molem, 60 km from Panaji is the 240sq.ft Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. The biggest of the three sanctuaries in the state, the sanctuary is rich in wildlife, geological and historical features. The sanctuary is rich in wildlife and is a paradise for bird watchers. The Dudhsagar waterfalls lie in the southeast region of the park.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary - is the second largest of the three wildlife sanctuaries in Goa located 60 kms from Panaji and 3kms from the Panaji - Mangalore Highway It is covered with dense forest and is home to varied wildlife including, birds and reptiles. The Kunbi and Velip tribal communities inhabit the area. Guides are available in this park and may be helpful in locating various animal and plant species. The ancient Jeevottam Partagal Math, noted for Vedic studies, lies in the vicinity of the sanctuary.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, the smallest of the Goan wildlife sanctuaries, lies on the border of Ponda and Sanguem talukas in North East Goa, 38 km from Margao in the foothills of the Western Ghats. This 8 sq. km sanctuary is an ideal jungle resort and a major attraction for school going children and nature lovers. Monkeys, jackals, wild boar, peacocks, a variety of deer, snake species and herds of Indian Bison inhabit this area. It has a mini zoo with tigers, bears, lions, crocodiles and snakes, a segregated deer park, botanical and rose gardens. Elephant rides are available to tourists. The park has facilities for overnight stay, inquiries for which must be made at the Department of Forests, near Hotel Fidalgo in Panaji. The Zoological Park and gardens at Bondla remain closed on Thursdays.
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located on the Western tip of the island of Chorao along river Mandovi near Panaji. This is Goa's bird watcher's paradise. Spread over 1.78sq.kms and is covered with mangrove species. Varieties of local as well as migratory birds frequent the area. The Sanctuary can be visited throughout the year with the permission of the Chief Wild Life Warden, Forest Department, Junta House, Panaji - Goa. It can be reached on foot after crossing taking the ferry from Ribandar to Chorao.
Lakes and Waterfalls in Goa
Dudhsagar Waterfall which is about two hours from Margao 50 minutes from Kulem station, on the eastern border of Goa-Karnataka is the state's most impressive natural wonder. The Dudhsagar Falls is the highest in the country and rated amongst the top 100 highest waterfalls in world. A trip here will take an entire day, because the climb alone will take a couple of hours. The view from the top of the falls is breathtaking and swimming is often done at the bottom of the falls. (Dudhsagar Waterfalls special tour, GTDC Panaji - 2224132 / 2226728)
Mayem Lake is located in North Goa in Bicholim Taluka near Mapusa. The lake is ideal for bird watching and boating and is and hour away from Panaji. Just 2kms from Mayem Lake, there is a small scale industry of handicrafts and pottery that is well known in the area.
Shopping/Clothing
For travellers to Goa, the visit is not complete unless they take back a
souvenir of their memorable sojourn in this magnificent paradise. Naturally, shopping should be a priority on the itinerary of every tourist, along with the sightseeing attractions. The excellent local handicrafts of Goa are easily 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. Another item which is on the list of every traveller to Goa is a pack of the famed cashew nuts. These are available practically everywhere. There are shops specialising in selling only cashewnuts. The nuts are available in a wide variety of tastes ranging from plain, salted and masala. The prices vary based on the quality and flavour. 
There are also many fascinating options in the lifestyle and fashion shops which have come up in recent times. Some of these are located in fabulous old Goan houses which have been painstakingly restored. These shops make the best selections in home styling and fashion available to the tourists at quite reasonable prices. It is also a fascinating experience to go around and shop in the traditional markets of the Goan towns and villages. These markets are a mirror of Goa's ethnic culture and provide a glimpse of the typical Goan way of doing business. Two of the most famous such market areas are Mapusa and Anjuna. The Friday Market at Mapusa, where stalls sell everything from curios and old coins to dried fish and spices. The Wednesday Market at Anjuna Beach started by and for foreigners is an extremely lively spot where souvenirs, beachwear, trinkets and handicrafts are sold at bargain prices. The charm of shopping in Goa lies in bargaining to your heart's content in markets and shops until you finally bring down the price and make the purchase a worthwhile experience. In Panaji the Bombay bazaar departmental store, offers a best place to shop for foreigners n localites as well.
Activity for Kids
The best thing a child can enjoy in Goa is swimming in the vast oceans this place provides.Apart from these even all the hotels & resorts offer many games which can keep your child busy.
Mapusa
is 13 kms from Panaji and is famous for its Friday market. If you like to shop, make sure you have a Friday to spare in Mapusa. It is a small town in north Goa.
Margao (Madgaon)
is the second largest city in Goa and is very much a commercial metropolis with a city circle where all roads meet. Margao has a lovely 18 km stretch of silvery sand: Palolean, Betul and Colva. For the religiously inclined, a trip to Chandreshwar Bhutnath temple and the Rachol Seminary here are a must.
Vasco-Da-Gama
Earlier Sambahji, this town is now called Vasco by the locals. This well planned city, is the railway terminus for passenger service coming from the south. Goa's only airport, Dabolim is also 4 km from Vasco, at the other end. The Marmagoa port is very close to here, you can catch cruise liners docking here occasionally. The town has developed because of the nave ships that bank here.
Old Goa
No visit to Goa is complete without a visit to Old Goa, the Golden Goa of the 16th century when it was the “Rome of the Orient”. Magnificent churches sumptuous buildings, stately mansions and narrow streets once characterized the 3sq miles of old Goa. Today it's a small village surrounded by the huge churches and convents built during its heyday, and which attract visitors from many parts of the world. Old Goa is only nine kilometers east of Panaji and was founded by Alfonso de Albuquerque.
Beaches
Warning
please do not try to get into the water on any of these beaches during the monsoons. The waves, soft spots and underwater currents are very unpredictable.
Arambol
Arambol’s best beach is the tiny Paliem beach at the foot of the Waghcolomb hill, about 200 mts from here is a fresh water lake that could meet all your fishing requirements. Arambol itself has a long beach stretch, both rocky and sandy. Its main attractions are the nearby hot water springs, paragliding and relative serenity.
Mandrem Beach
Head here to stay in one of the stilt homes. It’s a great way to see the waves come in. Another beach close by is the Junas beach, access to this however might be difficult as a creek runs close to it, but its great if you do not mind walking through at low tide
Vagator beach
This beach is split into two halves, one the north Vagator beach and the other the Ozrant beach, also called as mini-vagator beach. Head here to go to the fresh water spring that’s at the foot of the hill 100 metres from the beach. It’s also a stones’ throw away from Charpora fort. A lot of good Israeli food dots the area here.
Anjuna beach
One of the better travelled to beaches, this one got famous because of the Wednesday day flea market. The beach itself is beautiful, but can be quite deserted on any other day of the week.
Calangute beach
Calangute is a vast sandy beach that stretches to Baga on one side and Candolim on the other. The sea can be very rough. This is Goa’s most crowded and most commercialised beach. This beach is always completely packed with shacks in the season time and the sands are dotted with loungers full of people tanning themselves brown.
Candolim beach
A quiet beach to come to watch the sun sink into the water. This is where you will also see River Princess a sinking ship that’s been in shallow waters for the last few years. There are many inroads from the main road that lead to the beach, find your own way here.
Miramar beach
This is Chowpatty of Goa, you have fast food racks right across the main road towards the beach. A lot of locals frequent this beach. During the IFFI (film festival, end Nov) open-air movie screenings are carried out on this beach.
Bogmalo beach
This is one of Goa’s most picturesque beaches, you can see planes take off and land from here, it is bounded by green hills on three sides, and you can see the Grande island a few metres away from you into the sea. It is a small and almost deserted beach though about 8 km south from Vasco Da Gama, and 4 km from Goa's airport.
Colva beach
This is one of the bigger beaches in South Goa, second to Utorda beach where the famous Zeebop stands. This beach is practically a shopper’s paradise; it is South Goa’s equivalent to north Goa’s Calangute, only a quieter version.
Palolem beach
The far end of Goa, this is the most peaceful beach Goa has, the waters are not rough at all, and swimming here can be quite relaxing. This beach has quite become a tourists paradise, the food, people, living accommodation that are close to the beach too have been created keeping their clientele in mind. It is sometimes referred to as the Goa’s ‘Lost Paradise’. Don’t forget to walk on this beach at night.
Important Getaways
Once you reach Goa, you do not feel like leaving! So here are a few places from where Goa is never too far.
Ponda
The administrative headquarters of the taluka, this place boasts of the Safa Masjid, one of Goa's best preserved Muslim monuments. It is about 17 kms north east of Margao and about 28 kms south east of Panaji on the National Highway number 4.
Dudhsagar Falls
Slightly away, on the border with the State of Karnataka is the Dudhsagar Falls. One of the tallest falls in the country; it is also one of the most impressive. But reaching here is bit too tough as the roads become inaccessible soon after the monsoons.
Nightlife/Entertainment
The night takes on a life of its own in Goa, in fact, the night time is the right time to party here. Psychedelic lighting, exotic cocktails, foot-tapping music performed by live artistes or spun by deft DJ's keeps your spirits alive and kicking. If you don't want to shake a leg then test your luck at Goa's casinos. The 11 pm deadline in most places depends on cooperation of police and some clubs and discotheques stay open all night.
The best nightlife establishments are in North Goa and Panaji. Except for a few, the nightclubs in South Goa are mostly confined to the five-star resort hotels,
which all have their own discos, bars, sometimes gaming rooms. The Leela Palace and Holiday Inn Resort in Mobor, and the Goa Renaissance Resort and Club Mahindra in Varca are worth checking out, if you're staying in the vicinity. The choice of nightclubs in North Goa is vast - there is Bom Sucesso (Tel: 91 989 041-9041) at Candolim beach, which has karaoke nights on Tuesdays and Saturdays. East Meets West (Tel: 227-6211) at Baga has a band playing every evening from 6.30pm, and jazz on Saturday nights. The Flying Dolphin Beach Bar (Tel: 91] 982 212-5850) in Calangute has karaoke, a barbeque and fireworks every evening. There is also Ozone, at Mariott Hotel, Panaji - (Tel: 2463333), On the Rocks, Dona Paula - (Tel:2453144), Trafalgar Chowk, Porvorim - (Tel:3090565) and Aqua, Cavallosim - (Tel: 2871234)
Club Cabana on Arpora Hill, ten minutes from Calangute, is a multi level nightclub that hosts special parties on certain days of the week. This 'night club in the sky' that greets you with a big golden lips signboard at the foot of the hill and cat-eyes embedded in the dirt track on the path towards it , is quite the spot to hang out. One inside you realize that the view of the valley below is wonderful. The club has swimming pool and a massage area with BBQ & bars at different levels, a dimply lit dance floor and seating area. The Cover Charge is RS 600 which includes drinks. Wednesday is Ladies Night with free entrance. Friday's is bikini night. If you are wearing one you get free entrance and free drinks. (Tel: 0832 - 2279799 / 2277131).
The Log Cabin, at Porba Vaddo, Calangute, Bardez run by Leslie and daisy is one of the few places that are open during the monsoon. It has the genial atmosphere of an English styled Pub and is known for its exotic cocktails and fine Liqueurs. The club leans more towards karaoke and tends to draw the English tourist. It also has a big screen TV where you can watch football. Cover Charge RS 400. (Tel: 0832 2279662).
Friends' Pub, at Arambol beach is run by Dominic Mendes. Party time here starts at 5 in the evening. The pub is known for its imaginative cocktails. The best selling mix here is Domingos. (Tel: 2292511).
Club Tito's, at Baga, is a regular hang out for expats. It is also the most talked and written about Pub in Goa, as it used to be the hub of the hippie and flower power culture. Every night has a special theme. There are fire shows and ghost parties. The DJ spins a whole range of music from retro, to hip-hop, rap and reggae. Cover Charge RS 300(Tel: 2275082)
Mambo's, at Tito's Lane, Baga, has a large open bar with a huge TV screen that shows football matches and music videos. The entrance fee depends on the day of the week. Tony and Debbie pep up the red hot salsa nights here. (Tel: 832-227-9895). Cover charge, 200 to 300 rupees.
Gaming and Gambling
Goa offers the thrill of Vegas with six casinos spinning luck for now
and many more in the pipeline promising to materialize and increase your chances of winning. Slot machines outnumber roulette and table games at most establishments. But it keeps the crowds coming in, and so does, Black Jack, Rummy, Stud Poker, Baccarat, Pontoon and Flash. Players are dealt to by specially trained dealers who conduct gaming sessions with accepted international standards. Except for the cruise Casino Caravela the other casinos are attached to the five star hotels.
The 215 ft boat Caravela, is India's first ever high limit live gaming Casino. It can accommodate 300 people and is usually anchored in the Mandovi River, off Panaji.. The Caravela cruises along the river passing by the old secretariat (Adil Shah's Palace) and Fort Aguada into the Arabian sea. On Board are 8 slot Machines, and tables games including American Roulette (4 tables) Blackjack (4 tables) Pontoon (1 table) Stud Poker (1 table).
Cidade de Goa Casino, is located within the Hotel itself , at Vianguinim Beach, Dona Paula. It has a total of 35 slot machines and is open between 11am and 2am.
Holiday Inn Goa Resort Haciencda De Oro Casino & Pub, Mobor Beach, Cavelossim, Salcette, Goa, has 150 slot machines and stays open between 12:00 noon to 12:00 midnight
Las Vegas The Gaming Club, Leela Palace Hotel at Cavelossim, Mobor, has 20 slot machines and is open between 12:00 pm and 2:00 am
Renaissance Goa Resort and Casino is located at Varca Village, Salcette, and has 28 machines, American roulette and table games. It is open between 12 pm and 1am
Treasures Casino Majorda Beach Resort, at Majorda, Salcette, has 15 slot machines and is open between 12pm and 1am.
Travel Tips
Do's & Don'ts
DOs
This 500 year old Portuguese enclave moved from Union Territory status to become India's 25th state. The state of Maharashtra borders Goa on the north, the state of Karnataka on the south and east. The vast expanse of the Arabian Sea on the west forms the magnificent coastline for which Goa is justly famous.
General Info & History
General Information:
Blend of East & West -- Goa's 450 years under Portuguese domination produced a unique, syncretize blend of East and West that is at once exotic
and strangely familiar: Christmas and Carnival are celebrated as enthusiastically by the 30-percent Goan Christian population as Diwali and Durga puja are by the Goan Hindus. The state's separate identity is discernible in other ways too, most visibly in its Latinate architecture, but also in a preference for a fish-and meat-rich cuisine. Another marked difference is the prevalence of alcohol. Beer is cheap, and six thousand or more bars around the state are licensed to serve it, along with the more traditional tipples of feni, the local hootch, and toddy, a derivative of palm sap. Being the highest literate state in the union territory of India, Goa has come along way now from just being a beach haven. Apart for its distinctiveness, progress in fields of Education, Information Technology and Industry have scaled to new heights and all round development. But still a lot needs to be done as bureaucracy is seen as the major hindrance towards all round development of the state.History:
Legends from Hindu mythology credit Lord Parshuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu with the creation of Goa. Over the centuries various dynasties have ruled Goa.
Rashtrakutas, Kadambas, Silaharas, Chalukyas, Bahamani Muslims and most famously the Portuguese have been rulers of Goa. Goa was liberated by the Indian Army from Portuguese colonisation on December 19, 1961 and became an Union Territory along with the enclaves of Daman and Diu. On May 30, 1987 Goa was conferred statehood and became the 25th state of the Indian Republic. Having been the meeting point of races, religions and cultures of East and West over the centuries, Goa has a multi-hued and distinctive lifestyle quite different from the rest of India. Hindu and Catholic communities make up almost the entire population with minority representation of Muslims and other religions. All the communities have mutual respect towards one another and their secular outlook has given Goa a long and an unbroken tradition of religious harmony. The warm and tolerant nature of the Goans allows them to celebrate and enjoy the festivals of various religions such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, Christmas, Easter and Id with equal enthusiasm.Best Season to Visit
Goa's lifestyle is best experienced during the winter months between October and end of February.
At any other time, you're likely to either roast under the sun or find yourself threatened by the downpour of the seasonal monsoon rains that lash the state between the months: June - August and a little in September. The months of January, February and March are the best for witnessing Hindu festivals and celebrations. January has the colourful festival of Shantadurga Prassana, February, the 3-day zatra of Shri Mangueshi, and in March is the festival of Holi, called Shigmo. The month of March, 'Carnival' - is an event celebrated by Goan Christian community. It is a 3-day festival of fun and merry making and colourful floats, a 3 day orgy just before the 40-day Lenten period of fasting. Huge parades through the cities are organised with bands, floats and dances and balls in the evenings. The final day concludes with the famous red-and-black dance held by the Clube Nacional in Panjim. The origins of carnival are apparently the hedonistic feasts of ancient Rome and Greece. It made its appearance in the Spanish and Portuguese colonies, where it metamorphosed into the very Latin singing-dancing. The carnival is presided over by King Momo, who on the opening day declares the countdown to fun and merry making. Hotel bookings must be done in advance for carnival as the festival attracts thousands of tourists.Climate/Temperature
Being a coastal state, Goa has a maritime climate with moderate temperature throughout the year. Temperatures soar in the months of April and May and drops a bit during the rains when the South West Monsoons drench Goa. Thereafter Goa chills down considerably during the months of January and February.
Local Language
Languages spoken: English is widely spoken and understood. Konkani (The Official State language) and Hindi are the other languages used for communication.
Cue Words
Just remember the golden words refer to yourself as hum and address people with a ji after their names, that should get you by most problems, but otherwise Hindi and Punjabi are the most widely spoken languages, and English is well understood. Car and auto drivers can normally speak in broken English, but speak to them in hindi and you will get a better rate.
How to get there
Goa is well connected to the rest of the country and beyond because of its very efficient rail service and very competitive road and air transport services. The two major railway stations in Goa.- Vasco da Gama (South Central Railway terminus) and Margao (Konkan Railway terminus)over two hours away from Panaji are where most of the outstation trains stop. Travelers going to Baga, Calangute or Panjim get off en route. The two major highways that connect Goa to the rest of India are the NH-17 and NH-4.They are a boon to the interstate luxury bus travel companies, and individuals who love to drive down to Goa. The Dabolim airport which is 30 minutes from Panaji and 20 minutes from Madgaon,is where both international and domestic flights operate.
This is how fast it takes to reach Mumbai from some important places
Air
City (From GoaTo) Distance
Mumbai - 01 hrs
Bangalore - 01hr 5mins
Pune - 00hrs.50mins
Chennai - 02hrs.40mins
New Delhi - 02hrs.30mins
Kozhikode - 01hr. 5mins.
Ahmedabad - 01hr.25mins
Kolkata - 02hrs.30mins
Rail
City Distance in Rail Time
Mumbai - 11 hrs 45 min
Vadodara - 19 hrs
Hyderabad - 9 hrs 30 mins
Pune - 8 hrs
Bangalore - 14 hrs 30min
New Delhi - 44 hrs
Road
By Road In Kms Drive
Mumbai - 597 km - 11 hrs
Bangalore - 632 km - 13 hrs
Pune - 471 km - 8 hrs
Mangalore - 371 km - 10 hrs
Mysore - 677 km - 16 hrs
Travel Within Goa
Traveling in and around Goa is quite an experience. A common misconception is that Goa is small and easy to get around. On the contrary, the drive from north to south takes about four hours, and moving from one beach to the next could take you between half an hour to one hour.
Having a vehicle at your disposal is convenient and saves you the drudgery of walking long distances. Watch out for those winding roads through coconut groves, areca palms, banana plantations and rice fields.
You can rent a car, hire a two-wheeler, take a bus or an auto rickshaw. If you have arrived by plane then know that the
Dabolim airport is half an hour away from both Panaji, and Mudgaon and about 45minutes to an hour away from Calangute and Colva. If you have pre-booked your hotel accommodation then the hotel will provide you with a complimentary transfer. If not then the pre-paid taxi tourist taxi booking counter (Tel: 0832 - 2541235) is the place you must line up at for a taxi. For more comfortable travel you can make inquiries at the taxi information counter near the exit of the airport about air conditions 'white taxis' like Cielo and Esteem. These charge almost 20%more than the yellow cabs. Those arriving by train can get taxis or tourist 'white vans' outside the station. If you are traveling light then motorcycle pilots outside the airport will take you anyplace for one fourth the fare of the taxi. An important thing to remember is that you have to bargain over the fare before taking a taxi or a bike. For instance Karmali to Panaji (10kms) should cost you RS100 by auto rickshaw and RS 100 by taxi.There are buses, but most of these ply to the city and back along the main routes. They charge a minimum fare of RS 5. The local buses are known as 'Janta Buses'. Private operators also operate mini buses via several routes.
Hiring a motorcycle is popular with many travelers in Goa. Among those available are Enfields, Yamaha 100s and Kinetic Honda scooters.
These can be hired for a day or a week. The rentals for these vehicles are in the range of RS 200 (Kinetic Honda), RS 300 (bikes) and RS 500 (Enfield).You have to fill petrol and you may be required to give a photocopy of your driving license and in the case on non-Indian your passport and a sizeable deposit as security. If you are involved in an accident you'll be required to pay at least for the damage to the rented bike. Cars can be hired for the day or month at the Rate of RS 1000 a day and RS 15,000 a month for a Santro or Indica and RS 10,000 per month for a Maruti Van. Bicycle rentals involve less paper work. These can be hired in all the major towns and beaches of Goa for around RS 40 per day. Another way to travel around Goa is to take a ferry. Most ferries take 30 to 45 minutes and are flat bottomed so as to carry both passengers and vehicles. About 20 other ferry services operate in the state. These include: Panaji to Betim, Aldona to Corjuem, Pomburpa to Chorao, Amona to Khandola, Aronda to Kirapani, Ribandar to Divar, Assolna to Cavelossim, Carona to Calvim, Cortalim to Marcaim, Cortalim to Agassim, Siolem to Chopdem, and Querem to Terekhol Durbhat to Rassoi.Accomodation
ablone resort
afanso guest house
aldeia santa rita
alidia beach resort
angelina beach resort
angels holiday resort
anjuna beach resort
anup holiday homes
avantika resort
bambolim beach resort
bean me up
beira mar alfran resort
calangute residency
caps corner
This are few among the list but list of hotels in goa-north but there is much more to offer in goa-south too.To name few of them,they are:
benema guesthouse
bogmallo beach resort
carina beach resort
castellos tourist nest
clarion the beach resort
club mahindra varca beach
coconut grove
colva residency
countryinn and suites
dercy cottages
Festivals
Goans truly enjoy themselves. The best part of the celebrations are that they are enjoyed without any caste or religious barriers. The biggest celebrations are at Panjim and Margao. Besides the traditional festivals there are also village feasts - each village in Goa has a patron saint who has his/her own feast day - which are quaint, colourful and charming local events.
Christian Festivals
6 January - Feast of three Kings at Reis Magos, Cansaulim and Chandor.
2 February - Feast of Our Lady of Candelaria at Pomburpa.
February/March - Mardi Gras Carnival.
Monday after 5 th Sunday in Lent - Procession of the Franciscan Order at Old Goa.
1st Sunday after Easter - Feast of Jesus at Siridao.
16 days after Easter - Feast of Our Lady of Miracles at Mapusa.
24 August - Festival of Novidades.
1st fortnight of October - Fama de Menino Jesus at Colva.
3rd Wednesday of November - Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary.
3rd December - Feast of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa. World Pilgrimage takes place every 10 years, when the Body of St.Francis Xavier, the spanish priest is exposed for public veneration.
8th December - Feast of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception at Panaji and Margao.
25 December - Christmas. X'mas Carol Singing at Kala Academy, Campal, Panjim
Hindu festivals
January - Shantadurga Prasann is celebrated at Fatorpa village, south of Margao. Drawing a crowd of lakhs, a night-time procession of chariots bearing the goddess is the prime attraction. During the colourful Umbrella Festival, at Cuncolim, south of Margao, a solid silver image of Shantadurga is carried in procession over the hills to the original temple site. The Shri Bodgeshwar zatra, or temple festival, takes place south of Mapusa.
February - the 3-day Shri Mangesh festival takes place in his temple in the Ponda district. In Panaji, the Maruti festival is another crowd-puller.
March - In Goa, the full-moon festival of Holi goes by the name of Shigmo. It is celebrated with big parades and crowds, drums and dance groups competing with huge floats. It's marketed as the "Hindu carnival" and festivities occur in the main towns in the state, much in the same manner as they do for the Mardi Gras Carnival.
May - Igitun Chalne is celebrated when dhoti-clad devotees of the goddess Lairai enter trances and walk over hot coals at the village of Sirigao, Bichloim.
August - Janmashtami is observed in Goa. Ritual bathing in the River Mandovi, off Diwadi Island, to celebrate the birth of Krishna.
August - Bonderam arrives on the fourth Saturday of August. A sort of carnival on the island of Divar in the Mandovi river. Bonderam means the festival of flags, as colourful processions and mock battles are staged in a recollection of the property wars that raged on this island till a century ago.
Sep/Oct - There are nine days of festivities in Dussehra when effigies are burned on bonfires, and children perform episodes from the life of Rama. Ganesh Chaturthi is also one of the biggest festival celebrated.
Oct/Nov - Diwali Narkasur, the five-day Hindu "festival of lights" features processions all over the region, often accompanied by fireworks, burning of effigies and the exchange of sweets by neighbours, regardless of their faith.
Muslim Festival
Urus of Shah Abdullah at Ponda - 17th Feb.
Religious Places
Goa has a bit of everything from churches to temples and mosques and gurudwara.
The Reis Magos Church,
built in AD 1555, was once a mission centre of the Franciscan Order of Monks. It's better known as the Church of the three kings.
The Church of Mae de Dens or Mother of God.
This ones' in Saligao, and stands amongst picturesque surroundings. The statue after whom this church was named once occupied a convent, which no longer exists, and was known for its miraculous powers. This church is a fine instance of Gothic architecture.
The Church of St. Anne
at Talaulin Iltias, affectionately called Santana by the people, is dedicated to the Mother of Mary. It is situated on the right bank of the Siridao River. While these Catholic institutions have survived the ravages of time, a visit to the ruins of lost churches, of which there are many, would help to discover further the truths of a remarkable period of religious activity on the shores of our country.
Church of Immaculate Conception
stands bang in the centre of Panjim city. Apart from the church, the largo da Igreja. The Largo da Igreja - (Church Square) is an impressive dazzling white-balustraded stairway
The cathedral in Old Goa
is a mighty 16th century monument to the Roman Catholic rule of Goa under the Portuguese. Its huge Golden Bell is amongst the biggest in the world. It has 14 side chapels; the last chapel, in Mauresque style, preserves a cross upon which a vision of Christ is said to have appeared in 1919.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
One of the largest churches of Old Goa, it is open 9 am to 12.30 pm and 3 pm to 6.30 pm. It houses a respected relic. The mortal remains of St Francis Xavier who in 1541 was entrusted with the task of spreading Christianity within the Portuguese colonies in the East. The remains are entombed in this basilica. The remains of St Francis are brought out for public display every few years.
Tambdi Surla Temple
It is the oldest temple in the whole of Goa and is located at a place called Tambi Surla, which is approximately 65 kms from the Panaji. The temple itself was built in Jain style in the twelfth century.
Mangueshi temple
No visit to Goa is complete without a visit to this famed temple. This is one of the best places to spot Lord Shiva's beard! India's famous singing Mangeshkar sisters come here often. This temple has a large courtyard and the largest ablution tank Goa has seen. What's beautiful here is the seven-storey deepmala that's lit up on Dasheera and Diwali days. Not everyone can enter right up to the lingam here, you need to be of a particular caste.
Laxmi Narsihma temple at Velinga
is a temple that's not really as yet on the tourist map, but it is beautiful, in the midst of woody settings this is an 18th century temple. Set to the hill side is a beautiful gateway that's fringed with palms, there's also the gaily painted manapam that has stout carved pillars with elephants and tigers riding on it. That's an interesting feature of all temples in Goa, the ceilings of each of these are beautifully coloured and carved.
Shree Damodar Temple
on the banks of the river Kushavati is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus and Christians alike. The waters of the river near the temple precincts are a cure for all ailments. Shree Damodar is known simply as Danubab by the faithful and he is, till today, the patron deity of Margao
Safa Masjid at Ponda
Yet another relic from the bygone days, the Safa Shahouri Masjid located at Ponda is among the biggest and the oldest mosque in Goa. It is the only remaining one in Ponda Taluka among the 26 mosques that were built by Ibrahim Adil Shah of Bijapur in 1560.
Gurudwara at Betim
Situated just opposite the fishing village is this lovely gurudwara that has a magnificent view of Panjim across the river.
Attractions
Goa's beaches, monuments, wildlife sanctuaries, art galleries, museums, the carnival, beat and beach shows, casinos, live gaming and exotic food make holidays here an experience to remember. North Goa and Panaji (the capital city) comprises the more commercialized and urban part of Goa while South Goa is more laid back offering its visitors the otherwise illusive luxury of relaxation and privacy.
Beaches in Goa
Goa is justifiably famous for its beaches.
Along its 120 odd km coastline are some of the most happening spots in the State. Whether in Calangute (North Goa) or the Varca beach (South Goa), the cream coloured sand still crunches under the feet. Despite the steady influx of tourists, Goa's beaches remain undisturbed and unspoilt. The beaches are filled with beach shacks and sun beds and the streets adjoining it are full of shops of all kinds. These include restaurants, clothes stalls, jewellery stores, handicraft shops, beach bars, souvenir shops, massage centers, gyms, swimming pools, Internet cafes, nightclubs, etc.The North Goa beaches include Miramar (Goa's chowpatty lined with fast food stalls, Known for its beach shows and year end open-air movie screenings. Goa's elite lives here.).
Anjuna (Known for its hippie atmosphere, rave and acid parties and the Wednesday flea market.),
Baga and Calangute (known for the best food shacks, bars and budget guesthouses), Vagator, Sinquerim, Candolim (The Taj Hotels occupy most of this stretch), Morjim (The nesting ground for Olive Ridley Turtles) and Arambol (Known for its hot water springs, and fresh water lake nearby. Also a favourite spot for paragliding). These were once hippie haunts, but are now developed and attract tourists from all over. The beaches in South Goa are at Colva (Formerly a hippie beach, now a regular tourist hub), Benaulim ( beach shacks/restaurants serve you on the sand), Velsao, Betalbatim Cavelossim, Varca, Mobor, Betul ( Quieter beaches lined by five star hotels and resorts), and Palolem (crescent shaped sandy beach facing a shallow lagoon created by a small island hillock).. The Majorda beach is the largest one with a stretch of 20 kms connecting it to the Cabo de Rama. The Bogmalo beach is a secluded beach situated 4kms from the airport is bounded by green hills on three sides.Broadly speaking, north Goa has the busier resorts, and a more colourful nightlife, while South Goa has the more elite and expensive hotels and usually draws the kind of tourist ready to pay for that much cherished bit of tranquility.
The Goan Carnival
Goa is better known for its beaches and the Carnival in February. It has been celebrated since the 18th century Goa before the Lenten season of abstinence begins. Another Portuguese bequest, over the years it has turned into a very Latin singing-dancing-drinking celebrations. Though the event lasts for three days before Lent, preparations for the festival begin early in December. Huge colourful parades take to the streets and a king (King Momo) is elected to preside over the festivities. Street plays, song and competitions and exhibitions, cultural events and a host of programmes are organized. On day three Clube Nacional, Panaji hosts the famous red-and-black dance. You cannot attend unless you wear the colours of the dance. The carnival is a well attended event by people within and outside the country so booking hotel reservations must be made at least two months in advance.
Museums in Goa
Goa draws a lot of Art and Culture buffs to its museums and
galleries that display a vast collection of more than 8000 objects includes wooden objects, bronzes, paintings, anthropological objects, clay models, sculptures, manuscripts and numismatic collections. These not only cover the historical and cultural heritage of the state, but also display the handiwork of local talent.The popular museums and art galleries in Goa are the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery in Old Goa (Tel: 0832 - 2285333. Open 10am to 5 pm. Mon-Fri). Goa State Museum, in Patto Panaji (0832 - 2438006. Open 9.30am to 1 pm and 2pm to 5.30pm. Mon -Fri.), The Museum of Christian Art, Old Goa (Open 9.30 am and 5 pm.), The Naval Aviation Museum, Dabolim, The Galleria de Icons at Agakhan Khan, street, Margao. (Tel 0832-2730835. Open between 9 am to 1.30pm and 2.30 pm to 6pm. Monday to Saturday), Big Foot gallery and Local handicrafts Centre, Loutolim (Telo832- 2777034. Open 9am to 6pm). There are also galleries at Se cathedral, St Francis of Assisi, Convent and Basilica of Bom Jesus.
Wildlife and Bird Sanctuaries in Goa
Away from the gleaming sun kissed beaches, into the mainland, Goa goes green
and alive with the beauty of her flora and fauna. The little state has four wild-life sanctuaries that can be visited all year round. They are the Bhagwan Mahavir Wild Life Sanctuary, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Cortigao Wild Life Sanctuary and Bondla Wild Life Sanctuary. Situated along the northeast border (Panaji-Belgaum Highway) at Molem, 60 km from Panaji is the 240sq.ft Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. The biggest of the three sanctuaries in the state, the sanctuary is rich in wildlife, geological and historical features. The sanctuary is rich in wildlife and is a paradise for bird watchers. The Dudhsagar waterfalls lie in the southeast region of the park.Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary - is the second largest of the three wildlife sanctuaries in Goa located 60 kms from Panaji and 3kms from the Panaji - Mangalore Highway It is covered with dense forest and is home to varied wildlife including, birds and reptiles. The Kunbi and Velip tribal communities inhabit the area. Guides are available in this park and may be helpful in locating various animal and plant species. The ancient Jeevottam Partagal Math, noted for Vedic studies, lies in the vicinity of the sanctuary.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, the smallest of the Goan wildlife sanctuaries, lies on the border of Ponda and Sanguem talukas in North East Goa, 38 km from Margao in the foothills of the Western Ghats. This 8 sq. km sanctuary is an ideal jungle resort and a major attraction for school going children and nature lovers. Monkeys, jackals, wild boar, peacocks, a variety of deer, snake species and herds of Indian Bison inhabit this area. It has a mini zoo with tigers, bears, lions, crocodiles and snakes, a segregated deer park, botanical and rose gardens. Elephant rides are available to tourists. The park has facilities for overnight stay, inquiries for which must be made at the Department of Forests, near Hotel Fidalgo in Panaji. The Zoological Park and gardens at Bondla remain closed on Thursdays.
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located on the Western tip of the island of Chorao along river Mandovi near Panaji. This is Goa's bird watcher's paradise. Spread over 1.78sq.kms and is covered with mangrove species. Varieties of local as well as migratory birds frequent the area. The Sanctuary can be visited throughout the year with the permission of the Chief Wild Life Warden, Forest Department, Junta House, Panaji - Goa. It can be reached on foot after crossing taking the ferry from Ribandar to Chorao.
Lakes and Waterfalls in Goa
Dudhsagar Waterfall which is about two hours from Margao 50 minutes from Kulem station, on the eastern border of Goa-Karnataka is the state's most impressive natural wonder. The Dudhsagar Falls is the highest in the country and rated amongst the top 100 highest waterfalls in world. A trip here will take an entire day, because the climb alone will take a couple of hours. The view from the top of the falls is breathtaking and swimming is often done at the bottom of the falls. (Dudhsagar Waterfalls special tour, GTDC Panaji - 2224132 / 2226728)
Mayem Lake is located in North Goa in Bicholim Taluka near Mapusa. The lake is ideal for bird watching and boating and is and hour away from Panaji. Just 2kms from Mayem Lake, there is a small scale industry of handicrafts and pottery that is well known in the area.
Shopping/Clothing
For travellers to Goa, the visit is not complete unless they take back a
souvenir of their memorable sojourn in this magnificent paradise. Naturally, shopping should be a priority on the itinerary of every tourist, along with the sightseeing attractions. The excellent local handicrafts of Goa are easily 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. Another item which is on the list of every traveller to Goa is a pack of the famed cashew nuts. These are available practically everywhere. There are shops specialising in selling only cashewnuts. The nuts are available in a wide variety of tastes ranging from plain, salted and masala. The prices vary based on the quality and flavour. 
There are also many fascinating options in the lifestyle and fashion shops which have come up in recent times. Some of these are located in fabulous old Goan houses which have been painstakingly restored. These shops make the best selections in home styling and fashion available to the tourists at quite reasonable prices. It is also a fascinating experience to go around and shop in the traditional markets of the Goan towns and villages. These markets are a mirror of Goa's ethnic culture and provide a glimpse of the typical Goan way of doing business. Two of the most famous such market areas are Mapusa and Anjuna. The Friday Market at Mapusa, where stalls sell everything from curios and old coins to dried fish and spices. The Wednesday Market at Anjuna Beach started by and for foreigners is an extremely lively spot where souvenirs, beachwear, trinkets and handicrafts are sold at bargain prices. The charm of shopping in Goa lies in bargaining to your heart's content in markets and shops until you finally bring down the price and make the purchase a worthwhile experience. In Panaji the Bombay bazaar departmental store, offers a best place to shop for foreigners n localites as well.Activity for Kids
The best thing a child can enjoy in Goa is swimming in the vast oceans this place provides.Apart from these even all the hotels & resorts offer many games which can keep your child busy.
Mapusa
is 13 kms from Panaji and is famous for its Friday market. If you like to shop, make sure you have a Friday to spare in Mapusa. It is a small town in north Goa.
Margao (Madgaon)
is the second largest city in Goa and is very much a commercial metropolis with a city circle where all roads meet. Margao has a lovely 18 km stretch of silvery sand: Palolean, Betul and Colva. For the religiously inclined, a trip to Chandreshwar Bhutnath temple and the Rachol Seminary here are a must.
Vasco-Da-Gama
Earlier Sambahji, this town is now called Vasco by the locals. This well planned city, is the railway terminus for passenger service coming from the south. Goa's only airport, Dabolim is also 4 km from Vasco, at the other end. The Marmagoa port is very close to here, you can catch cruise liners docking here occasionally. The town has developed because of the nave ships that bank here.
Old Goa
No visit to Goa is complete without a visit to Old Goa, the Golden Goa of the 16th century when it was the “Rome of the Orient”. Magnificent churches sumptuous buildings, stately mansions and narrow streets once characterized the 3sq miles of old Goa. Today it's a small village surrounded by the huge churches and convents built during its heyday, and which attract visitors from many parts of the world. Old Goa is only nine kilometers east of Panaji and was founded by Alfonso de Albuquerque.
Beaches
Warning
please do not try to get into the water on any of these beaches during the monsoons. The waves, soft spots and underwater currents are very unpredictable.
Arambol
Arambol’s best beach is the tiny Paliem beach at the foot of the Waghcolomb hill, about 200 mts from here is a fresh water lake that could meet all your fishing requirements. Arambol itself has a long beach stretch, both rocky and sandy. Its main attractions are the nearby hot water springs, paragliding and relative serenity.
Mandrem Beach
Head here to stay in one of the stilt homes. It’s a great way to see the waves come in. Another beach close by is the Junas beach, access to this however might be difficult as a creek runs close to it, but its great if you do not mind walking through at low tide
Vagator beach
This beach is split into two halves, one the north Vagator beach and the other the Ozrant beach, also called as mini-vagator beach. Head here to go to the fresh water spring that’s at the foot of the hill 100 metres from the beach. It’s also a stones’ throw away from Charpora fort. A lot of good Israeli food dots the area here.
Anjuna beach
One of the better travelled to beaches, this one got famous because of the Wednesday day flea market. The beach itself is beautiful, but can be quite deserted on any other day of the week.
Calangute beach
Calangute is a vast sandy beach that stretches to Baga on one side and Candolim on the other. The sea can be very rough. This is Goa’s most crowded and most commercialised beach. This beach is always completely packed with shacks in the season time and the sands are dotted with loungers full of people tanning themselves brown.
Candolim beach
A quiet beach to come to watch the sun sink into the water. This is where you will also see River Princess a sinking ship that’s been in shallow waters for the last few years. There are many inroads from the main road that lead to the beach, find your own way here.
Miramar beach
This is Chowpatty of Goa, you have fast food racks right across the main road towards the beach. A lot of locals frequent this beach. During the IFFI (film festival, end Nov) open-air movie screenings are carried out on this beach.
Bogmalo beach
This is one of Goa’s most picturesque beaches, you can see planes take off and land from here, it is bounded by green hills on three sides, and you can see the Grande island a few metres away from you into the sea. It is a small and almost deserted beach though about 8 km south from Vasco Da Gama, and 4 km from Goa's airport.
Colva beach
This is one of the bigger beaches in South Goa, second to Utorda beach where the famous Zeebop stands. This beach is practically a shopper’s paradise; it is South Goa’s equivalent to north Goa’s Calangute, only a quieter version.
Palolem beach
The far end of Goa, this is the most peaceful beach Goa has, the waters are not rough at all, and swimming here can be quite relaxing. This beach has quite become a tourists paradise, the food, people, living accommodation that are close to the beach too have been created keeping their clientele in mind. It is sometimes referred to as the Goa’s ‘Lost Paradise’. Don’t forget to walk on this beach at night.
Important Getaways
Once you reach Goa, you do not feel like leaving! So here are a few places from where Goa is never too far.
Ponda
The administrative headquarters of the taluka, this place boasts of the Safa Masjid, one of Goa's best preserved Muslim monuments. It is about 17 kms north east of Margao and about 28 kms south east of Panaji on the National Highway number 4.
Dudhsagar Falls
Slightly away, on the border with the State of Karnataka is the Dudhsagar Falls. One of the tallest falls in the country; it is also one of the most impressive. But reaching here is bit too tough as the roads become inaccessible soon after the monsoons.
Nightlife/Entertainment
The night takes on a life of its own in Goa, in fact, the night time is the right time to party here. Psychedelic lighting, exotic cocktails, foot-tapping music performed by live artistes or spun by deft DJ's keeps your spirits alive and kicking. If you don't want to shake a leg then test your luck at Goa's casinos. The 11 pm deadline in most places depends on cooperation of police and some clubs and discotheques stay open all night.
The best nightlife establishments are in North Goa and Panaji. Except for a few, the nightclubs in South Goa are mostly confined to the five-star resort hotels,
which all have their own discos, bars, sometimes gaming rooms. The Leela Palace and Holiday Inn Resort in Mobor, and the Goa Renaissance Resort and Club Mahindra in Varca are worth checking out, if you're staying in the vicinity. The choice of nightclubs in North Goa is vast - there is Bom Sucesso (Tel: 91 989 041-9041) at Candolim beach, which has karaoke nights on Tuesdays and Saturdays. East Meets West (Tel: 227-6211) at Baga has a band playing every evening from 6.30pm, and jazz on Saturday nights. The Flying Dolphin Beach Bar (Tel: 91] 982 212-5850) in Calangute has karaoke, a barbeque and fireworks every evening. There is also Ozone, at Mariott Hotel, Panaji - (Tel: 2463333), On the Rocks, Dona Paula - (Tel:2453144), Trafalgar Chowk, Porvorim - (Tel:3090565) and Aqua, Cavallosim - (Tel: 2871234)Club Cabana on Arpora Hill, ten minutes from Calangute, is a multi level nightclub that hosts special parties on certain days of the week. This 'night club in the sky' that greets you with a big golden lips signboard at the foot of the hill and cat-eyes embedded in the dirt track on the path towards it , is quite the spot to hang out. One inside you realize that the view of the valley below is wonderful. The club has swimming pool and a massage area with BBQ & bars at different levels, a dimply lit dance floor and seating area. The Cover Charge is RS 600 which includes drinks. Wednesday is Ladies Night with free entrance. Friday's is bikini night. If you are wearing one you get free entrance and free drinks. (Tel: 0832 - 2279799 / 2277131).
The Log Cabin, at Porba Vaddo, Calangute, Bardez run by Leslie and daisy is one of the few places that are open during the monsoon. It has the genial atmosphere of an English styled Pub and is known for its exotic cocktails and fine Liqueurs. The club leans more towards karaoke and tends to draw the English tourist. It also has a big screen TV where you can watch football. Cover Charge RS 400. (Tel: 0832 2279662).
Friends' Pub, at Arambol beach is run by Dominic Mendes. Party time here starts at 5 in the evening. The pub is known for its imaginative cocktails. The best selling mix here is Domingos. (Tel: 2292511).
Club Tito's, at Baga, is a regular hang out for expats. It is also the most talked and written about Pub in Goa, as it used to be the hub of the hippie and flower power culture. Every night has a special theme. There are fire shows and ghost parties. The DJ spins a whole range of music from retro, to hip-hop, rap and reggae. Cover Charge RS 300(Tel: 2275082)
Mambo's, at Tito's Lane, Baga, has a large open bar with a huge TV screen that shows football matches and music videos. The entrance fee depends on the day of the week. Tony and Debbie pep up the red hot salsa nights here. (Tel: 832-227-9895). Cover charge, 200 to 300 rupees.
Gaming and Gambling
Goa offers the thrill of Vegas with six casinos spinning luck for now
and many more in the pipeline promising to materialize and increase your chances of winning. Slot machines outnumber roulette and table games at most establishments. But it keeps the crowds coming in, and so does, Black Jack, Rummy, Stud Poker, Baccarat, Pontoon and Flash. Players are dealt to by specially trained dealers who conduct gaming sessions with accepted international standards. Except for the cruise Casino Caravela the other casinos are attached to the five star hotels.The 215 ft boat Caravela, is India's first ever high limit live gaming Casino. It can accommodate 300 people and is usually anchored in the Mandovi River, off Panaji.. The Caravela cruises along the river passing by the old secretariat (Adil Shah's Palace) and Fort Aguada into the Arabian sea. On Board are 8 slot Machines, and tables games including American Roulette (4 tables) Blackjack (4 tables) Pontoon (1 table) Stud Poker (1 table).
Cidade de Goa Casino, is located within the Hotel itself , at Vianguinim Beach, Dona Paula. It has a total of 35 slot machines and is open between 11am and 2am.
Holiday Inn Goa Resort Haciencda De Oro Casino & Pub, Mobor Beach, Cavelossim, Salcette, Goa, has 150 slot machines and stays open between 12:00 noon to 12:00 midnight
Las Vegas The Gaming Club, Leela Palace Hotel at Cavelossim, Mobor, has 20 slot machines and is open between 12:00 pm and 2:00 am
Renaissance Goa Resort and Casino is located at Varca Village, Salcette, and has 28 machines, American roulette and table games. It is open between 12 pm and 1am
Treasures Casino Majorda Beach Resort, at Majorda, Salcette, has 15 slot machines and is open between 12pm and 1am.
Travel Tips
Do's & Don'ts
DOs
- In case of need or desire to overstay you are advised to contact the nearest Foreigner's Regional Registration Office.
- It is advisable to avail pre-paid taxis/ autorickshaws or pay by meter or ask for fare chart.
- Advisable to shop at Govt. Emporia/ Fixed Price shops to ensure quality and reasonable prices.
- Please check power voltage before using electrical instruments. (220/ /240 V. are available in India).
- Keep your valuables in hotel lockers/safe deposit vaults.
- You are advised to contact the nearest Govt. of India Tourist Office/State Government Travel Agents/ Tour/ Operators for local sight-seeing and excursion tours.
- Fast trains/intercity express are available between several tourist Centres. Consult the Railway information office or Govt. of India Tourist Office/ State Government Tourist Office.
- Always hire a Govt. approved tourist guide who invariably carry an Identity Card.
- Check about photography permission/filming at any monument. Contact the nearest Government of India Tourist Office/Police Station/ State Government Tourist Office.
- Change money only at Authorised Foreign Exchange outlets/Banks/Hotels and insist on receipt for money changed.
- For guide map of the citv/tourist information contact the nearest Government of India Tourist Office/State Government Tourist Office.
- In case of loss of any documents contact the nearest Government of India Tourist Office/Police Station/ State Government Tourist Office.
- STD/ISD/FAX facilities are available at small outlets in all parts of the country with yellow sign boards. For medical assistance you may contact hotel or accredited hospital/nursing homes.
- Observe local tradition/customs while visiting religious places.
- There is prohibition on liquor in a few States. Check details from the nearest tourist office about the same.
- Smoking not allowed in public places and vehicles, in some states.
Don'ts
- Don't encourage beggars.
- Don't accept food/drink from strangers.
- Export of Indian Currency is banned.
- Don't be coerced into shopping by touts/guides/taxi drivers or strangers.
- Don't buy articles made from rare/endangered species or animals which are banned.
Important Landmarks
Old Goa is a UNESCO world heritage site and is famed for its impressive buildings, churches and temples, remnants of and era now gone. Today, most of these structures are maintained by the Archeological Survey of India and the Archdiocese of Goa.
The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, in the centre of Panaji and the Church Square are the principal landmarks of Goa. Fontainhas, its Latin District at Ourem Creek is dotted with colourful houses. Every year, a festival of arts and crafts takes place here.
Altinho Hill, another prominent landmark is where you will find the residences of the Chief Minister and other government dignitaries.
The Secretariat, the oldest surviving building in Panjim, which is the seat of the State Legislature, was originally the palace of the Muslim ruler Adil Shah in the 16th century and later the Viceroy's residence.
Forts
About 15 minutes away from Panaji at the northernmost tip of Goa's shoreline, stands the Terekhol Fort, which has now become a historic fort hotel. In its courtyard is the century-old church of St. Anthony. The fort was originally built by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle in the 17th century, but it was rebuilt in 1764 after the Portuguese Viceroy Dom Pedro Miguel de Almeida captured it.
The Portuguese built the Chapora Fort to protect themselves against the Muslims and the Marathas. It was captured by the Marathas and recaptured by the Portuguese, who rebuilt the fort with underground tunnels to ensure a safe getaway. The fort was captured and recaptured again, until the Portuguese finally abandoned it in 1892. This fort affords you a view of the sea and the entire coastline of Goa's beaches.
Fort Aguada lies to the southern end of Candolim. It is the best preserved Portuguese bastion in Goa built in 1612 to prevent the Dutch and Marathas from accessing the sweet water of Mandovi. A spring within the fort provided water supply to the ships that called there, giving it the name "Aguada" (meaning 'water' in Portuguese). On the northern side of the fort lies a harbour for local shipping. The fort, at present, houses the central jail. A 19th century built lighthouse also stands inside the fortress.
Cabo Raj Bhavan, the official residence of the Governor of Goa is situated on the westernmost tip of Dona Paula, half an hour away from Panaji. Along the road to this place lie the ruins of the small military cemetery that the British built during their brief occupation of the Cabo, to deter the French from invading Goa. , but was later attached to the fort. This is one fort you really can't get into! The famous Dona Paula jetty lies close by.
Viceroy's Arch
Built of laterite stone and green granite, the original structure was erected in 1597 by Francisco da Gama (the grandson of Vasco ad Gama). It carries the deer crest of his family. On top of the arch on the side facing the Mandovi River is a small statue of Vasco da Gama, fully attired in his royal uniform. The original arch collapsed in 1948 and it was restored in 1954. Inside the archway is an inscription to Vasco da Gama and also to King Dom Joao I, the first Portuguese king. Tradition has it that on taking office, a viceroy had to pass under the arch where he would be given the ceremonial key to the city and Goa. The road under the arch known as the Rua Direita leads to the main square where most of the monuments exist today.
Gateway of Adil Shah's Palace stands in Old Goa and was once the entrance to the most prominent building with magnificent lofty staircases. It was the residence of the Portuguese governors till 1695. It was deserted during the epidemic in the 18th century, was demolished in 1820 as its materials carried to Panaji for construction of houses. There's not much left of the gateway apart from the basalt pillars and a lintel. This was the entrance to the main palace of the King that also housed a prison in one of its wings. Though very much a ruin the structure is an aesthetic creation of the Indo-Muslim influence.
The Tower of St Augustine is the ruin on Holy Hill, Old Goa, Panaji. Built in 1602, it was once part of the Church of St. Augustine. This lofty 46-metre high tower over powers the elements and overlooks the entire city of Old Goa. History books tell of how the Italian architect and his son stood under the vault and asked for a heavy cannon to be fired to test the stability of the structure.
Dona Paula is about 20 minutes from Panaji, and is a steep, rocky headland situated where two of Goa's famous rivers meet the Arabian Sea. An edifice built at the site in memory of Dona Paula de Menezes (the viceroy's daughter) who threw herself off the cliff, when refused permission to marry Gaspar Dias, a local fisherman, draws every visitor to itself. One can get a fine view of the Marmagao Harbour. Water scooter facilities are available here and makeshift stalls sell food, t-Shirts and other curios
Emergency Contact No
Airlines
Dabolim Airport 2540795/6
Railways
Reservations/ Inquiry 131 or 2438254 (Panaji office)
Margao Railway Statio 2712790/1
Vasco railway Station 2512337
Karmali 2285798
Thivim 2298682
Out station Buses
Kadamba Transport Corporation 2438034/5
Maharashtra State transport
Corporation 2438253
Karnataka State Road Transport
Corporation 2438256
Police
Police 100, 2226482
Mapusa 262231
Margao 722175
Panaji 226482
Panaji (Control room) 223400
Vasco 512304
Ambulance
Ambulance 102
Esperance Clinic, Panaji 222413
Goa Medical College, Bambolim 223026
Margao Ambulance Trust 731759
Red Cross, Panaji 224601
Hospitals
Asilo Hospital, Mapusa 262211
Goa medical College (Casualty) 223026
GMC, Bambolim 225727 / 223658
GMC, Panaji 224566
Chondakar Nursing Home, Porvoriim 2417617 / 2417778
Vrundavan Hospital, Mapusa 2250022 / 2250033
Hospicio Hospital, Margao 722164
Institute of Psychiatry and
Human Behavior (IPHB) 226147
Manipal Goa Cancer Hospital Trust, Panaji 221319
Primary Health Centre, Vasco 513864
Salgaocar Medical Research
Centre, Vasco da Gama (SMRC) 513824
Pharmacies/ Drugstores (24 hrs)
GAPL Pharmacy - GMC Complex,
Bambolim 233590
Mapusa - Bardez Bazaar 250618
Margao - Holy Spirit Medical Stores 737433
Jeevan Rekha Medical Stores - Panaji 435946 / 230655
India Tourism, Panaji - 2420529
Goa Tourism Development Corporation, Panaji - 2228515, 2224132
Panjim Information Counter - 2438520
Margao Information Counter - 2715204
Mapusa Information Counter - 2262390Vasco Information Counter - 2512673
Foreigner's Regional Registration office, Police Head Quarters, Panaji - 2426545.
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