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Information about
Goa |
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Goa is a little seaside state with an identity
that is a seamless blend of Portuguese and Latin
influence and Indian tradition. The name Goa is derived
from the Konkani word ‘Goyan’ which means a patch of
tall grass. Goa is located about half way down the west
coast of India. It is a lush green paradise edged on the
one side by the wooded foothills of the Sahyadri range
and on the other side by the Arabian Sea. This small
former Portuguese enclave is one of India’s most
dazzling tourist place. More than 450 years of
Portuguese rule preceded by Hindu and Muslim supremacy
have made Goa an exciting mixture of cultures. Panaji is
the capital of Goa. Hindi, English, Konkani, Marathi and
Portuguese are the main languages which are spoken in
Goa. Imposing churches, forts perched on high
promontories, delightful old mansions, villas and
picturesque whitewashed villages set amidst velvety
paddy fields are part of this exciting heritage. Goa is
a perfect holiday destination for any tourists with its
marvelous, un-spoilt expanses of palm fringed beaches,
mystical hills and groves, seas, local hospitality,
relaxed life styles enlivened by the music and dance and
superb cuisine. Goa is also one of the Millennium
destinations of the world. The best time to visit Goa is
between November to February and June to September.
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History of Goa |
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According to the Indian mythology, Goa was
originated by Parshuram, a God of the Hindu pantheon.
This mythical land was known as ‘Aparanto’ at that time
which in Sanskrit means a place beyond the exotic and
beautiful. A place unfettered by time. Goa combines Old
Portuguese architecture with a distinct Portuguese
flavour to the lifestyle and a history that abounds with
Indian mythology. | |
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Tourist Attractions in
Goa |
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Panaji, the capital of Goa, is located along the
Mandovi river. The white washed and red tile – roofed
buildings rising up the hills give it a Mediterranean
look. Panaji is known for its fine buildings. The
present Government Secretariat is located along the
river. Once the Governor’s residence, it was built at
the site of the palace of Adil Shah, the ruler of
Bijapur. The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate conception
dominates the City Square and its steps zig zag up the
hill. The old Latin quarter of Fontain has an old world
charm. Its little lanes and stairways going up the hill
are lined with the houses with wrought iron balconies.
The little Chapel of San Sebastian blends into these
surroundings. Kala Academy, the main centre of all the
cultural activities in Goa, is a beautifully designed
modern complex in Panaji. The Mayem Lake, situated
amidst the folds of a ring of hills, the imposing
ramparts of the Tirakol fort and the Church town of Old
Goa, once the seat of Portugese rule in Goa are another
tourist attractions in Goa. The Miramar beach is located
near Panaji. Maragao is a major commercial centre. It
also has some beautiful old houses and churches. The
towns of Vasco da Gama and the Mormugao Port are located
nearby. Mapusa comes alive each Friday when a local
market springs up. | |
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How to reach here |
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By Air Goa is well connected by air. Indian Airlines
and other private airlines operates flights to Goa from
Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai and Kochi.
Indian Airlines also connects Goa with Kuwait and
Sharjah.
By Rail Goa is easily accessible by rail from Delhi,
Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Mangalore, Ernakulam,
Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune and
Thiruvanantapuram.
By Sea The Damania Shipping Corporation operates
non-stop catamaran service between Goa and Mumbai from
October to May.
By Road Goa is also well connected by road. The
National Highways 4A, 17 and 17A runs through Goa. The
drive from Mumbai to Goa is easy and picturesque as Goa
is situated right on the main
highway.
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Map of
Goa & Surroundings |
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