GOA
KNOW THE PLACE
GOA | INDIA
Weather | 29˚C
Capital | Panjim
Ideal duration | 3 -4 days
Best time | Oct - Feb
Airport | Dabolim (near Vasco)
Official language | Konkani
Tourist rank | 3rd in India
Goa is a state in western India
with coastlines stretching along
the Arabian Sea. It's long history
as a Portuguese colony prior to
1961 is evident in its preserved
17th century churches and the
area's tropical spice plantations.
Goa is also known for its beaches,
ranging from popular stretches at
Baga and Palolem to those in laid-
back fishing villages such as
Agonda.
Old Goa is home to the massive,
Portuguese-style Se Cathedral
and the baroque Basilica of Bom
Jesus, which holds the remains of
the state's patron saint, Francis
Xavier. In Panaji, the capital, the
Latin Quarter's winding streets
contain galleries, cafes and
colonial-era Portuguese-style
homes. For shopping, visitors flock
to Anjuna's famous flea market
and Mackie's seasonal night
bazaar. On the coast, the Salim Ali
Bird Sanctury provides a look at a
native mangrove ecosystem. Goa's
interior features small villages,
quiet retreats, waterfalls and
jungle trails.