Goa, one of the most
popular tourist destinations in India, has no shortage of tourist
attractions. Rich with natural splendor, bestowed with a golden past,
an interesting culture that is a blend of Indian and Portuguese
culture, and several others holidaying in Goa is fun and exciting.
Head to the fun destination and pick from the best hotels in Goa,
say, Oyo rooms in Goa.
India's smallest
state, Goa is one of the largest hubs of tourism in the country.
Bordered by the Arabian Sea and two states, viz, Maharashtra and
Karnataka, Goa has a long coastline with multiple beach towns and
villages marking it. It is the beach capital of India home to some of
the most well-known beaches, such as Calangute, Baga, Anjuna,
Candolim, and Colva. The Anjuna Beach in particular finds a special
mention as it has attracted visitors since 1960s, when the ecstasy
oriented liberal and radical hippies from across the world swarmed it
in huge masses. It still continues to remain one of the most
bewitching beaches in the region, however, today, it is more hip and
happening than just being a hippie destination. From hosting the
famous trance parties, most happening nightclubs, several first-rate
hotels including Oyo
rooms in Goa, abundance of restaurants and beach shacks that
serve a whole palate of fresh and delicious seafood and international
cuisines, night markets selling funky accessories and bohemian
clothes, and a number of water sport actions, the beaches in Goa are
the first favorite destinations amongst the tourists. A majority of
tourists throng directly to the beaches, overlooking some good
tourists spots that lie on the way. However, Goa is not just about
the beaches; a rather pleasant blend of Indian and Portuguese
culture, abundance of nature, some of the oldest and most cardinal
churches and cathedrals, etc., make the place much more than just the
beaches and parties.
Driving a few miles
away from the beaches and towards the interiors of the state unveils
the allures of the state that are just often overlooked. Being the
former Portuguese outpost on Indian soil for about 450 years, there
is a strong influence of Portuguese architecture, food, and culture
prevalent in different inner regions of the state. Old Goa in
particular is full of long surviving monuments, churches, bungalows,
boulevards, and even cafes. The place is also ideal for exploring
Christian religious arts and secular arts. The Christian Art Museum,
situated here, is certain to stun the visitors with its surreal arts
collection. Churches that include Basilica de Bom Jesus, Church of
St. Francis of Assisi, Se Cathedral, Church of St. Cajetan, etc. are
certain to leave one amazed with their architecture and taking one
back in time. They are amongst the oldest churches in the country and
a visit to them provides calmness to the mind as well as soul.
Goa is also abundant
with flora and fauna and the reason for the fact is that the
government has established multiple different wildlife sanctuaries
that have effectively protected and given shelter to different
wildlife species. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Dr. Salim Ali Bird
sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife sanctuary, etc. are some of the chief
nature reserves in the region. Besides, visiting the islands
surrounding Goa must be on your travel itinerary. They exhibit the
quaint side of the state that is worth relishing.
Amongst the other
popular places
to visit in Goa are: Velsao Chapel, Shore Bar, Paliem Lake,
Shri Chandeshwar temple, Vasco, Margao, Mahalasa temple, Laxmi
Narasimha temple, Aguada Fort, Mapusa, etc.
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