ROYAL WORLD TRAVEL
––» Goa Vacations
Goa Vacations
About Goa
Variously known as "Pearl of the Orient" and a "Tourist Paradise",
the state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt
known as Konkan. The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours
of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with
travellers around the world.
North Goa
North Goa is known and loved as a land of golden beaches, palm trees, paddy
fields and wooded hills. Its churches, temples, shrines and forts tell its history.
It is associated with music, the famous Goan cuisine and most of all with a
peace-loving , smiling people.
South Goa
South Goa is one of the Districts of Goa., It is famous for its natural Beaches,
Temples, water falls, hill spots, paddy fields, coconut gardens.
Places of Interest
in Goa
Mormugao Harbour: It is 34 Kms. from Panaji and 4 Kms. from Vasco-da-Gama. It
is one of the fine natural anchorages on the West coast of India and the hub
of intense maritime activity.
History of Goa
The origin of Goa or Gomantak as it is also known, is lost in the mists of time.
In the later Vedic period (c.1000-500 BC), when the Hindu epic Mahabharat was
written, Goa has been referred to with the Sanskrit name Gomantak, a word with
many meanings, but signifying generally a fertile land.
Goa Shopping
Pottery & Terracota: are traditional crafts with utility-cum-decorative
items produced by the potters with artistic perfection and realistic finish.
The items produced include flower garden pots, bowls with floral designs, figures
of saints, Gods' and Godesses' and animals, ashtrays and pen holders. etc.
Churches in Goa
Se Cathedral Church: One of the most ancient and celebrated religious buildings
of Goa, this magnificent 16th century monument.
Temples in Goa
The Temples of Goa are in essence like most Hindu temples in India, based around
a deity which is worshipped. The architecture of Goan temples is a little different
mostly because of historical reasons.
Goa Museums
Institute Menezes Braganza: On view at the Institute Menezes Braganza are stone
sculpture, bronzes and terracotta artefacts. There are coins, stamps and paintings
which include drawings and etchings.
Goa Adventure
Parasailing: High fliers amongst the speed lovers can opt for parasailing. Both
the Taj and Bogmallo Resort hotels provide the necessary equipment for this
enthralling sport.
Goa Fairs & Festivals
Hindu Festivals: Mahashivratri: A celebration in the honour of Lord Shiva held
at all the principal Shiva templeIs, it is celebrated in Harvalem, Ramnathi,
Kavlem, Mangueshi, Nagueshi, Shiroda, Brahmapuri. Shirgao, Kasarpal, Fatorpa
and Panaji.
Goa Excursions
From Panaji: Dona Paula Bay (7 kms), Old Goa (10 kms) with its Basilica of Bom
Jesus, Se Cathedral, Archaeological Museum and other churches, Mangueshi Temple
(22 kms), Shantadura Temple (33 kms), Calangute (16 kms), and Baga Beach (18
kms).
Goa Carnival
Although introduced by the Portuguese who ruled this territory for over 50 years,
from 1510 to 1961, the three-day festival primarily celebrated by Christians,
has absorbed Hindu tradition-bound revelry and western dance forms, and stimulated
by the artistry of the Goan genius turned into a pageantry of singular effervescence.
Cuisine in Goa
Visitors to Goa tend to think that food and drink in Goa means the famous fish,
curry, rice and feni package. And for most Goans these are indeed the three
basic necessities of life -- fish, curry and rice.
People and Lifestyle
The people of Goa prefer to call themselves Goans and not Goanese as mentioned
in guidebooks and brochures. Goans are very much aware of this unique identity;
they are proud of it and guard it fiercely.
Goa Travel Information
Variously known as "Rome of the East", "Tourist Paradise"
and "Pearl of the Orient", the state of Goa is located on the western
coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan.
How to Reach Goa
By Air: Goa is well connected by airline services to most major cities in India.
All flights, national and international, to and from Goa, operate from the Goa
Airport at Dabolim near the port town of Vasco-da-Gama.
