Infamous from the 60's as the hippy capital of the east, this former Portuguese colony has still retained the lifestyle of the colonial rulers, with afternoon siesta’s, bohemian living and the totally laid back attitude. Of course the times have changed and now the popularity is gained more for the all night, trance music party scene at Anjuna and Vagator beaches in Goa.
Here is a very Brief Information of Goan History
Goa's history stretches back to the 3rd Century BC, when, it formed part of the Mauryan Empire. It was later ruled by the Satyahanas of Kothapur at the beginning of the
Christian era, and eventually passed to the Chalukyas of Badami, who controlled from 580-750 AD.
Over the next few Centuries it was ruled successively by the Shillaharas, the Kadambas and the Chalukyans of Kalyani. Goa fell to the Muslims for the first time in 1312, but the invaders were forced to evacuate it in 1370, by Harihara, whose capital was in present day Hampi.
They held Goa for nearly 100 years, and its harbours became important landing places for ships carrying Arabian horses to Hampi. In 1469 Bahmini Sultans of Gulbaga conquered Goa. When this dynasty broke up, the area passed to the Adil Shahas of Bijapur, who made Goa Velha their second capital. The old secretarial building in Panjim, is the former palace of Adil Shah, and it was later taken over by the Portuguese, as their official residence.
Goan Culture
Introduction
Goa, a former Portuguese territory, for more than 450 years is often described as 'The Rome of the East'. It has over the past decades, become the dream holiday destination, for many a foreign tourist. More than 40 years after the departure of the Portuguese, Goa is perhaps the most westernized of all the states in Modern India. The majority of Goans are very bohemian. Easy going in nature, enjoying a typical 'tropical lifestyle'; including the 'siesta', which is usually from 1pm to 4pm, the hottest part of the day. Music, dance, drama, food and feni, are a few of the things most Goans are passionate about.
Religion
Religion is very important to the Goans. Whether it is Catholic, Hindu or Muslim. Churches, Temples and Mosques abound wherever you journey in Goa. Some of the churches are placed in spectacular, and very difficult locations. Though, Goa is a multi-ethnic state, Goans are very tolerant towards each other's faiths; while unfortunately this is not true of the rest of this country. The majority Hindu community and the sizeable Catholic minority have lived in peace and harmony for decades and centuries. They participate in each other's many feasts. Many Hindus attend the novenas during the feast of St. Francis Xavier (the patron saint of Goa), as the Catholics take part in the zagors and zatras. It is not rare to see young Catholics at local Hindu temples during the feast of Dusshera. They consider it auspicious to have their vehicles blessed by the temple priest on that day. A few days before lent, many colorful carnivals are held, in all the major towns in Goa. Then, a few days later comes the Shigmo (Hindu festival of spring) distinctive parades go along the very same streets, with many kaleidoscopic floats and frenzied dancers. On these occasions both communities participate.
Goa Tourist Attractions
Goa is the perfect place where you will find a blend of traditional and modern aspects of life. On one hand you have plush beaches and on the other hand you have the most natural landscapes that make you wonder if time ever touched this place.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls
The Dudhsagar waterfalls are located in the Sanguem district of Goa near the Goa-Karnataka border. It is located at a distance of around 60 kilometers from Margao and can be reached easily by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from either Margao or Panaji. Dudhsagar waterfalls of Goa have the distinction of being ranked as the fifth highest waterfall in India and they list in the Top 100 highest waterfalls in the world.
Highlights:Listed as one of the highest waterfalls in the world and India's fifth highest waterfall
Location: Sanguem district in Goa, near the Karnataka border
Goa Spice Plantations
Goa is synonymous to its exotic beaches and pulsating nightlife. Tourists come here to enjoy the relaxed pace of life and rediscover themselves in peaceful and serene surroundings. But there is more to Goa than just beaches, churches, nightlife and casinos. A major attraction in the rural side is the spice plantation of Goa. Situated in the region called Ponda (central Goa), the spice plantations in Goa use organic methods of cultivation and farming. The spices that are produced are then cleaned and ground into powder.
Highlights: Two major spice plantations that produce exotic spices and grind them in a powder form for use.
Beaches of Goa
Goa's 105 km coastline is endowed with lovely beaches some of which such as Vagator, Anjuna, Calangute, Baga and Harmal in the North of Goa and Colva, Betul and Palolem in the South have already become world famous.Here is some famouse beaches:
Anjuna Beach
Goa is one of the finest beach destinations and is well-liked by the travelers from all parts of the world for its exotic beaches. Among the beaches of Goa, Anjuna is also one of the most well-liked ones and the waters of the Arabian Sea play against the sandy stretch of the beach gently.
Location:
Anjuna is a tiny village in northern Goa located on the shores of the mighty Arabian Sea. It is at a distance of 18 km away from Panaji,which is the capital of Goa.
Key Attractions:
The Anjuna beach of Goa has several attractions that are magnificent. Albuquerque Mansion built in 1920 (flanked by octagonal towers and an eye-catching Mangalore tile-roof), the Mascarenhas Mansion, and the Chapora Fort.In South Goa, this long stretch of white sand is great for sun lovers.
Popularity:
Anjuna Beach has claimed reputation for its Trance Parties and the Hippies who tried to blend the spiritual traditions of the East and the art, ideas and the music of the West. This region was discovered in the late 1950s to mid-1960s by a group of travelers that included “Eight Finger Eddie” and a small international psychedelic scene started partying here during the dry season.
Agonda Beach
Situated at the south of Goa, some 37 kilometers from Margao is the Agonda beach. Secluded and a bit cut off from the mainland,the Agonda beach of Goa is the place to be if you want to be just with yourself and the never ending sea in front of you. The Agonda beach of India is dotted with palm trees on golden brown sands and the shores are softly washed by the gentle waves of the sea.
The south of the beach has a large hill which looks beautiful and dramatic. Though the beach is not frequented much by tourists, it is the ideal getaway if you are looking for peace and silence.
Location: 37 kilometers from Margao, South Goa
Highlights: Cabo De Rama fort which is now in ruins
Arambol Beach
Arambol beach of Goa is one of those beaches that is less frequented by visitors as compared to other popular beaches. Its secluded location in the north of Goa makes it untouched and unspoilt. Though it is not thronged by crowds, the Arambol beach is visited often by tourists who look for tranquility and peace and a dreamy place such as the beach to relax. The Arambol beach of India also has sulphur springs that have medicinal properties and freshwater lakes where one can swim.
Location: 50 kilometers from Panaji in North Goa
Highlights: Secluded beach still unspoilt by visitors, Sulphur springs and freshwater lakes nearby
Baga Beach
Located at a distance of around 10 kilometers from Mapusa, the Baga beach of Goa is considered to be an extension of the Calangute beach. Though the starting point of the Baga beach and the ending point of Calangute beach is not known, the Baga beach can be reached easily from the Calangute beach. Considered to be a beautiful beach in India, the Baga beach is quite popular with tourists who come here for enjoying the natural beauty of the exotic locales.
Location: An extension of the Calangute beach, the Baga beach of Goa lies 10 kilometers west of Mapusa
Highlights: Best restaurants, liveliest nightlife in Goa, water sports
Bambolim Beach
Bambolim beach is the ideal beach if you want to spend maximum time regaling in the sea and soak up the sun. It is located in the north of Goa near the Dona Paula beach. The Bambolim beach of Goa is a bit secluded from the mainland and this is what gives it a desolate and exotic look. The Bambolim beach resort in India is quite famous and one can find many tourists availing the modern and latest facilities provided in this resort while enjoying the beach. The Bambolim beach is a delight for all those who love to go out in the rough seas on a boat and enjoy.
Location: North of Goa, 7 kilometers from Panaji
Highlights: Famous for the Bambolim beach resort
Calangute Beach
The Calangute beach of Goa is known to be the busiest and the most commercialized beach. This beach is a favorite among tourists who come to India to visit this paradise called Goa. The Calangute beach was discovered by the hippies who came here during the 1960's and made this beach their favorite hideout. As more and more hippies came to know about this beach, it became popular and attracted many more people. The Calangute beach was known as "kolli gutti" in local language which means "land of the fishermen".Due to the Portugal rule the name got corrupted to Calangute.
Location: 16 kilometers from the capital city, Panaji
Highlights: Known as the "Queen of Beaches" due to its increased popularity
Cavelossim Beach
One of the most famous beaches in India, the Cavelossim beach of Goa will give you the experience of a lifetime when you come here for a vacation. Known for its luxury hotels and wonderful beach resorts, the Cavelossim beach knows how to combine style, comfort and beauty. The Cavelossim beach lies in south Goa and is located between the Arabian Sea and the Sal River. The paddy fields in the backdrop and the calm Sal River make the beach look beautiful and create a very soothing ambience. The Cavelossim beach is the ideal beach to enjoy your vacation, relax and pamper yourself in the luxury resorts that are situated very close to the beach.
Location: South Goa
Highlights: Beach resorts, dolphin spotting tours and luxury hotels
Colva Beach
Located at a distance of 6 kilometers from Margao, the Colva beach is a wonder of nature. This beautiful beach extends to nearly 20kilometers and is supposed to be the oldest beach in Goa. The beach has natural white sand of very fine quality, tall coconut trees,turquoise blue water and some of the best resorts that you can find in Goa. If you want to see a scenery that is absolutely picture perfect and looks like a canvas painting, come to Colva beach in India.
Location: 6 kilometers from the city of Margao, south Goa
Highlights: White sandy shores, oldest beach of Goa best beach resorts in Goa
Dona Paula Beach
The Dona Paula beach is one of the most famous beaches of India. The beach is definitely one of the most happening in Goa and for all the right reasons. The Dona Paula beach of Goa is one of the most popular beaches that provide opportunities for trying out water sports in Goa. It is located at a convenient site, at distance of around 7 kilometers from Panaji. This makes it easily accessible as almost every mode of local transport shall take you to the Dona Paula beach. The Dona Paula beach in Goa has an interesting story behind its name.
Location: 7 kilometers from Panaji, North Goa
Highlights: Water sports, National Oceanography Institute, Cabo Raj Niwas
Majorda Beach
One of the most popular beaches, Majorda beach of Goa is located on the 26 kilometer stretch of fine white sand. This lovely beach looks absolutely mesmerizing with its white sands, blue water and swaying coconut trees. The blue sky and white clouds above only make it look even more magical and picturesque. The Majorda beach also has historical significance in India. It is believed that Lord Rama (of the Indian epic Ramayana) was kidnapped when he was a kid and was brought here.
Location: Majorda beach is located in Salcete district in Goa
Highlights: European bakeries, beach resorts and luxury hotels
Miramar Beach
Located at a distance of just 3 kilometers from the capital city Panaji, the Miramar beach in Goa is definitely worth the visit. It is easily accessible as it is quite close to the capital city and any kind of local transport like taxi, auto or a bus can take you there. The Miramar beach is located at the confluence of the Arabian Sea and an estuary of River Mandovi. The Miramar beach is also known by the name of Gaspar Dias. The beach was named Miramar by the Portuguese when they came to India and the name essentially means "viewing the sea".
Location: 3 kilometers from Panaji, capital city of Goa
Highlights: Confluence of Arabian Sea and River Mandovi, famous spot for viewing migratory birds
Palolem Beach
The Palolem beach is the most popular beach in south Goa. In fact, one can reach Palolem beach even from Karnataka in India, since it flanks Goa towards the south. The Palolem beach is considered to be the most photogenic beach in Goa since it has a crescent shaped coastline and fine white sand. The coast is lined with swaying coconut trees that form the most picturesque beach when seen in totality with the white sand and the blue sea.
Location: Canacona district in south Goa
Highlights: Dolphin trips, fishing trips and swimming
Vagator Beach
One of those few beaches with a naturally mystical look, the Vagator beach does not have to try too hard to attract visitors. It is located in north of Goa in Mapusa district and can be reached easily by hiring a taxi or an auto. Certain buses from Mapusa also come to the Vagator beach. This lovely beach has been the locale of many film shootings in India. The beach looks absolutely ravishing with red laterite cliffs and black lava rocks here and there on the fine white sand. The swaying coconut trees and turquoise blue sea with a ship on the horizon looks like painting moving in front of your eyes.
Location: In Mapusa, North Goa at a distance of 22 kilometers from Panaji
Highlights: Freshwater springs, Old Portuguese fort, scenic beauty
Varca Beach
The Varca beach in Goa is not as commercialized and crowded as other major beaches of Goa. Instead the quiet beach attracts visitors without fail since it is less crowded and cleaner than other big beaches. Come to Varca beach if you want a holiday in India that is absolutely relaxing and rejuvenating. The Varca beach has soft sandy shores dotted with coconut trees and the turquoise blue sea right in front. Nature is virtually unspoilt over here and you can really indulge yourself in some soul searching and moments of
peace.
Location: 2 kilometers from Benaulim, south Goa
Highlights: Unspoilt beauty, Benaulim beach just 2 kilometers away
Night Life Of Goa
Goa is known for its music crazy people and late night parties. Although the Government has been trying to implement the 11.00p.m. deadline for loud music and nightclubs, it has in reality not been implemented. This has been a sort of boon to the tourists who love to go out in the evenings and dance away the night.Below are some of the more popular hotspots in Goa.
Club Tito’s
The most famous, talked about, written about place in Goa. Located on the Baga Beach, this place is more like a hangout for everyone and anybody in Goa. Besides a reasonable discotheque, it has speciality restaurants stretching upto the beach. Plays mostly funky, trance music and although famous has a shady reputation.
Club Extreme
This is another trendy discotheque situated on the Miramar Road in Panaji. Open everyday of the week, it plays good disco music.
Club Cubana
Great location on top of the Arpora Hills. Charges entrance fees of Rs. 299/- for ladies and Rs. 399/- for men, but then gives unlimited drinks. Good music but sometimes the DJ’s do not have the pulse of the dancing clientele and tends to play the wrong kind of music.
Club Antoos
Newly opened up on the Calangute Beach, next to Goan Heritage Hotel. It has great ambience with a large pub and dance floor. The DJ’s however, are known to lack in playing the right kind of music.
Bamboo Forest/Paradisio/Hill Top
All the above are situated in the hotspot at Anjuna and Vagator area. All of them are known to have non-stop all night music, but is more famous for its drug scene and trance music.
CASINO GOA - The Caravela
A state of art entertainment cruise ship. The Caravela is home to India's first ever high-limit live gaming casino 'Casino Goa'.Designed to meet international gaming standards.
Goa Festivals
Goa has a rich cultural history and being a part of India itself means having a kaleidoscope of festivals. This small sate of India was under the Portugal rule, Mughal rule and also has a tradition of its own. This has resulted in a unique cultural amalgamation, which is evident from the festivals it celebrates. People in Goa are extremely tolerant of different religions and respect different religious faiths.
Goa celebrates not only Hindu, Muslim and Christian festivals, but also festivals that are exclusive to Goa. Some of these festivals are typical of Goa and can be as Goan festivals. Check out our related sections to have an idea about the major festivals of Goa.
Goa Christian Festivals
The Portugal rule in Goa left a deep and ever lasting Christian influence in this state of India. At that time, people were converted to Christians on a large scale. Though they follow the Christian practices and believe in the Christian faith, but they have not forgotten their roots.
Goa Hindu Festivals
Hinduism is the pre-dominant religion in Goa. Though the long years of Portugal have left the Christian influence on Goa, yet Goa has not forgotten its roots and maximum people follow Hinduism. Thus Hindu festivals in Goa are celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm.
Goa Muslim Festivals
Goa does not quite have a sizeable Muslim population and it ranks after Hindus and Christians. Though there are not many Muslim festivals in Goa, the main ones are celebrated with much joy and enthusiasm. The two main Muslim festivals that are celebrated in Goa are Id-ul-Fitr and Id-ul-Zuha.
Shigmo Festival
One of the most celebrated events in Goa is the Shigmo festival. It is celebrated all through Goa in a grand manner. The Shigmo festival in Goa lasts almost a fortnight and is celebrated with much joy and fervor among the Goans. The Shigmo festival is known as Shigmotsav in Goa.
Bonderam Festival
The Bonderam festival of Goa is celebrated on the Divar Island. This quiet little island is located at a distance of 12 kilometers from Panaji. The celebration of this festival has a unique history behind it. It is said that many years back, the villagers resented the rules that were adopted for settling disputes regarding the land issues.
