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Fact File
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Capital : |
Panaji |
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Area : |
3,702 sq. kms
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Population :
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1,343,998 |
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Language :
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Konkani, Marathi, English
and Hindi |
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Main Towns :
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Panaji, Margao, Vasco,
Mapusa and Ponda. |
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About Goa :
Goa, one of the small states of India, is situated in the
Sahayadri ranges of the Western Ghats. The state land
beginning from Tiracol in the north to Palolem in the south,
is bounded by the states of Maharashtra to the north,
Karnataka to the east and south and the Arabian Sea on the
west. Panaji is the capital city, while Vasco-da-Gama is the
largest town of the state. Often referred to as the 'Pearl
of the Orient', Goa is a true 'Tourist's Paradise'. Goa
remained a Portuguese colony since the arrival of Portuguese
merchants in the 16th century, till 1961. The lovely beaches
and churches of Goa still have the aroma of Portuguese.
Boasts of some of the most superb beaches of India, Goa is a
perfect place to spend vacations. Goan culture is a
combination of Indian and European style, the people of the
state lead a distinct lifestyle, which is different from
other regions of India. Goa has the richness of folk
culture, which keeps the people of the state in festive mood
throughout the year. |
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Climate :
Goa is located in the tropical zone, close to the Arabian
Sea, the climate of the region is hot and humid. May- June
are the hottest months when the temperature soars up to
35°C. Winter season is somewhat short which falls between
mid-December and February, the temperature drops to a
minimum of 19°C in winter. The ideal time to visit Goa is
September to March.
Major Attractions :
Panaji (Panjim) - Panaji,
the capital city of Goa, was originally the former capital
of old Goa. Located on the bank of the Mandovi river, this
small charming place is a must visit in Goa. Pajani houses
some wonderful old buildings and churches, dating to a time
before colonization. The Church of the Immaculate
Conception, built in 1541 is the major attraction here.
Other attractions include the Secretariat and the Institute
Menezes Braganza etc. |
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Dona Paula - Just 7 kms
away from Panaji, this small town has several resorts. The
small palm fringed beach is an ideal place for leisurely
activities. |
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Old Goa - The Old Goa is
situated at a distance of 8 kms from Panaji. Old Goa was the
State Capital until 1843, when it was moved to Panaji.
Dotted with imposing churches and cathedrals, the region is
regarded as the heart of Goa. The old Portuguese churches
are the main attraction here, which include the Basilica of
Bom Jesus, St. Cathedral, Church of St. Cajetan and Church
of St Francis of Assisi.
Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery - The
Archaeological Museum and Potrait Gallery is located at the
Convent of St. Francis of Assisi, Old Goa. The museum has
the collection of sculptures, depicting the period before
the arrival of Portuguese. It is open 1000 - 1200 hrs and
1200 - 1700 every day except Fridays.
Anjuna Flea Market -
Anjuna Flea Market is a commercial market with a wide range
of goods on sale. Traders from almost all parts of India,
come here to sell their wares like colourful elaborately
woven clothes, silver and pappier mache boxes and several
other items. If you are not planning to shop, you can enjoy
the performances of musicians and snake charmers.
Goa Beaches - As Goa is
called the beach capital of India, it houses several
beautiful beaches. Most famous beaches of Goa are Arambol
Beach, Anjuna Beach, Colva Beach, Vagator Beach, Baga Beach,
Calangute Beach, Bogmalo Beach and Palolem Beach.
Goa Carnival -
Celebrated annually during the month of February, the Goa
Carnival is the main festival of the state. The three-day
festival is not only celebrated by local people but they are
joined by a large number of tourists from India and world. |
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Reaching Goa :
By Air - Dabolim
airport, 29 kms from Panaji is an international airport. The
airlines operate daily flights from Goa to Mumbai, Delhi and
Chennai etc.
By Rail - Margao and
Vasco-da-Gama are the two major railheads of Goa. These
stations are connected by train with Mumbai, Delhi,
Bangalore, Belgaum, Hospet and Hyderabad etc.
By Road -
National Highway 17 A connects Goa with the
states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. Regular buses are
available from Mumbai and other nearby places to Goa.
Where to Stay :
The hotels in Goa are fantastic options to stay, as they
offer plenty of accommodation options to the visitors. One
can chose from a wide variety of hotels range from standard,
luxury to budget hotels, according to one's budget and need.
Book Your Hotel Now |
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