The fabulous state of Goa situated on the west coast of India finds mention in the Indian epic ‘Mahabharata’ as Goparashtra or Govarashtra. It is a state of balmy beaches, by gone legends, world heritage monuments, rich bio diversity and sunny people. It is the ubiquitous lively spirit of the place that draws tourists from all quarters of the world. Tourists can experience the sun, sand, and rhythm of the soul all fused into one here.
It is no wonder that it is one of the most preferred tourist destinations of India.
Goa christened with names like ‘The Pearl of the East’, ‘Queen of the Beaches’ is a paradise for the tired, strained nerves.It offers a gamut of recreational activities in the form of adventure and water sports- Parasailing, Jet-Skiing, Water-Skiing, Knee and Wake-Boarding, Windsurfing, Speedboat Rides, Banana,Bump and Ringo Rides and Catamaran Sailing. These high adrenalin action packed water games are guaranteed to offer a whale of time to those who love the fizz, action and adventure.
For wildlife enthusiasts there are well-preserved delights of the nature in the form of Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Mollem National Park , Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary and Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. The tourists are going to love the sheer abandonment, the recluse in the company of natural companions.
Those who want to savor the golden beaches of this destination can check out Candolim,Baga, Calangute, Sinquerim, Vagator, Mandrem, Dona Paula and Anjuna. The long stretches of these beaches, the undulating waves of the sea, and the rhythmic whiff of the air are sure to cast their spell on the tourists.
One can recreate the images of Goa with its magnificent forts that have withstood the ravages of time like Fort of Aguada, Goa Cabo Raj Niwas, Goa Chapora Fort, Goa Tiracol Fort. The Goan churches represent the influence of conventional Portuguese architecture blended beautifully with local mores. Few of them are Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedra, Convent & Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Church & Convent of St. Monica, The Church of St. Alex - Curtorim, and The Church of our Lady of the Rosary. There are some worth visiting Hindu Temples too like the Shiva temple of Shri Mangesh, Shri Shantadurga temple, Shri Gomanteshwar Devasthan at Brahmapuri, and Shri Kamakshi Sausthan at Shiroda.
The spirited state of Goa is known for its colorful festivals and celebrations. The Carnival and Shimoga are the more enthralling of fairs and festivities. In Carnival huge parades are organized in the cities accompanied with bands, floats and dances, and balls during evenings. The fair concludes with the famous Red-and-Black dance on behalf of the Clube Nacional in Panjim. Shimoga is a counterpart of Holi played zealously with colors amongst the natives.
The state offers fairly decent accommodation facilities to the tourists. Hotels of both star and non-star categories can be found here plus the resorts, restaurants and cafes that suit every pocket.
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