Goa, a former Portuguese colony has a splendid and rich historical and cultural background. It is one of the most charming cities in India. The unique mix of its native and Portuguese cultures and architecture attract millions of visitors each year. Goa is rightly called the tourism hub in India. Tourists range from hippies to charter tourists and people who come to attend seminars and conferences. A large number of Catholic and Hindu shrines in Goa also attract a large number of tourists each year. Owing to the Portuguese rule in Goa for over 400 years, Goa is noticeably diverse and isolated from the rest of India. Goa holiday packages can be found on many esteemed travel portals such as Goibibo and Travelguru etc.

The best feature of Goa is the traditional villages or vaddo’s. The heart of Goa they say lies in these villages. If you take an aimless ride or walk on a tranquil evening or a languorous morning into the villages you are sure to be smitten by its beauty, charm and natural splendour. Apart from these the villages, unlike urban areas are neat and the people friendly and charming. Some of the villages worth visiting are Assolna, Benaulim, Goa Velha, Shiroda and the list can continue no end. Old ancestral homes are one lookout in these villages. Excellent Portuguese style bungalows and manors are there to feast your eyes upon and if you’re lucky you can also get a tour of the place.

The major attractions in Goa are the beaches, churches and nightlife. There are many beautiful sun kissed beaches along the Goan coast. The best feature is that every beach is said to have different coloured sand. Among the beaches the popular ones include Baga beach, Anjuna beach, Dona Paula and many others. Churches that attract large number of tourists include the Basillica of Bom Jesus which is a world heritage monument, the Se Cathedral which is the biggest church, and many more. Among the Hindu shrines the famous are the Saraswat temples, the Shanta –Durga complex etc.

Forts are another attraction in Goa. The sturdy walls of the architecturally marvellous forts draw historians and architecture lovers to this place in hordes. Chapora Fort, Terekhol Fort, Cabo Fort and many others are some examples. Apart from these another big attraction in Goa is the Goa Carnival, a colourful, lively and energised event spanning over a week. There is just one thing to do during the carnival, Eat, Drink and Be Merry. Shopping in Goa is best at the flea markets where you can get stunning artefacts, though bargaining is very necessary. Cashews, fenny and dry fish are some must buys from Goa.

Getting to Goa:

By Air: Goa is served by the Dabolim International Airport

By Train: train services from many places in India are available

By Road: taxi and bus services are also available for Goa

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