DESTINATION GOA

Prepared & Edited by

Ramadas Kaipa
WILD LIFE & SANCTUARIES
Mollem National Pa!
Home to a rich and rarefied wildlife, Mollem Nation Park is situated in the heart of Bhagwan Mahavir ildlife !anctuary"
#he park is spread in an area of $%& s' km abundant with dense forests" Mollem National Park was notified as a National
Park since $(&)" *t covers the core +one of Bhagwan Mahavir ildlife !anctuary" ,ocated -. km away from Pana/i, Mollem
Nation Park is named after the village Mollem in !anguem #aluka where it is located" Placed on the slopes of estern 0hat
ranges, it is very near eastern 0oa12arnataka border" #his national park is sheltering a number of animals, birds and
plants which are otherwise on the verge of e3tinct" 4ome to the park for its virgin treasure of nature"
T"e Floa
est 4oast !emi1 Evergreen 5orests, est 4oast #ropical Evergreen 5orests and Moist 6eciduous 5orests are the ma/or
types of vegetation in and around this national park" #erminalia, 7ylia, 6albergia, and ,agerstromia are some of the
species here" Evergreen forests are mainly centered on higher altitudes and along the river banks" 0rass is very limited"
T"e Fa#na
0aur, leopards, chital, mouse deer, barking deer, wild boar, *ndian porcupine, wild dogs, leopard cat, sambar deer, bonnet
maca'ue, common langur, /ungle cat, civet, flying s'uirrels, Malabar giant s'uirrel, pangolin, and the slender loris"
Poisonous snakes such as king cobras, pythons, kraits, and vipers etc"
T"e A$i%a#na
!ome of the popular bird species here are Paradise flycatcher, *ndian great black woodpecker, Emerald dove, Malabar pied
hornbill, 0reat *ndian hornbill, 0rey /ungle fowl, 5airy bluebird, 6rongo, ag tails, !hrikes, Barbets, 2ingfishers etc" #his
wildlife sanctuary is also home to around 8%% avian species"
T"e A&ti$ities
9ou can drive in or /ust walk along the mud trails" hen you trek through the dense forest, you will find herds of bison
besides other animals" :bserve each and every moment of wildlife" 6on;t walk through the large webs which may be spun
amidst tree branches" Have a close us at the huge spiders and colourful butterflies
including 4hocolate Pansy, 4rimson <ose and Blue Mormon"
Lo&ation
*n the heart of Bhagwan Mahavir ildlife !anctuary -. km from Pana/i, in !anguem #aluka
'est Season
:ctober to March
)"%%am to ."%% pm
Ent( Fee
=dult <s 8%
4hild <s .
E3tra charges for camera and vehicle
W"ee to Sta(
9ou can stay at 6udhsagar <esort at Mollem which is /ust a few hundred metres away from this national park" <ooms, rest
houses and dormitories maintained by state government can also be preferred" Permission can be taken from the <ange
5orest :fficer if you want to pitch your own tents in a campsite" #wo other private resorts are very close to #ambdi !urla
#emple" #hese are !hanti Nature <esort and Backwoods"
)o* to Rea&"
Nearest airport at 6abolim is )% km away from Mollem National park" 4olem railway station is the nearest railhead, placed
- km from the park"" 9ou can pick buses or hire ta3is, available at regular intervals from Pana/i and Margao"
'"a+*an Ma"a$i Wildli%e San&t#a(
*f you want to have a close look at rich and rarefied wildlife, captivating landscape and
dense evergreen forests, then 0oa;s Bhagwan Mahavir ildlife !anctuary is the perfect
place for you" ,ocated -. km away from Pana/i, Bhagwan Mahavir ildlife !anctuary is
located at Mollem village in !anguem #aluka" *t is located on the slopes of estern 0hat
ranges which is very close to eastern 0oa12arnataka border" 5ormerly known as Mollem
0ame !anctuary, it was renamed as Bhagwan Mahavir ildlife !anctuary later" 4overing
an area of 8>% s'" km, dense forests in it range from evergreen to moist deciduous" *t
makes it an ideal habitat for a variety of flora and avian species"
T"e Floa
#hree ma/or types 1 est 4oast !emi1 Evergreen 5orests, est 4oast #ropical Evergreen 5orests and Moist 6eciduous
5orests" Here, you will see the species of #erminalia, 7ylia, 6albergia, ,agerstromia etc" 0rass is very limited here while
the evergreen forests are mainly centered on higher altitudes and along the river banks"
T"e Fa#na
,eopard 4at, Panther, Mouse 6eer, ?ungle 4at, Barking 6eer, !potted 6eer, 0aur, Porcupine, ild Boar, ild 6og, !ambar,
4ommon ,angur, 5lying !'uirrel, Bonnet Maca'ue, 4ivet, Malabar 0iant !'uirrel, !lender ,oris, Pangolin etc" !ometimes
tigers have also been spotted here" #he sanctuary is famous for numerous snakes including 2ing 4obras, Python, 2rait,
@iper and non1poisonous snakes also"
T"e A$i%a#na
#his wildlife sanctuary is also home to around 8%% avian species" !ome of the popular bird species here are Paradise
flycatcher, *ndian great black woodpecker, Emerald dove, Malabar pied hornbill, 0reat *ndian hornbill, 0rey /ungle fowl,
5airy bluebird, 6rongo, ag tails, !hrikes, Barbets, 2ingfishers etc"
T"e A&ti$ities
9ou can drive in or /ust walk along the mud trails" hen you trek through the dense forest, you will find herds of bison
besides other animals" :bserve each and every moment of wildlife" 6on;t walk through the large webs which may be spun
amidst tree branches" Have a close us at the huge spiders and colourful butterflies including 4hocolate Pansy, 4rimson
<ose and Blue Mormon"
Lo&ation
-. km from Pana/i, in !anguem #aluka
'est Season
:ctober to March 1 )"%%am to ."%% pm
Ent( Fee
<s 8% for =dult, <s . for 4hild Ae3tra charges for camera and vehicleB
W"ee to Sta(
:ne good option is 6udhsagar <esort at Mollem" *t is a few hundred metres away from the sanctuary entrance" 9ou can
also stay in rooms, rest houses and dormitories of state government" 9ou can also take prior permission from the <ange
5orest :fficer for pitching your own tents in a campsite within the sanctuary" !hanti Nature <esort and Backwoods are two
other private resorts, very close to #ambdi !urla #emple"
)o* to Rea&"
Nearest airport at 6abolim is )% km away from this wildlife sanctuary" Nearest railhead, - km from sanctuary is at 4olem
railway station" Buses and ta3is are available at regular intervals for Mollem from Pana/i and Margao"
Cati+ao Wildli%e San&t#a(
6o you want to e3plore very deep forests, where you may hardly find sun light on the
groundC *f yes, then 4atigao ildlife !anctuary is the most suitable place in 0oa"
Established in $(-( to save the forest lining on the border of 0oa and 2arnataka, this
wildlife sanctuary is spread in )."-. s' km of mi3ed deciduous woodland" #his wildlife
sanctuary inspires all the tree lovers" :ne river named #alpona flows through the
sanctuary, while the other one <iver 0al/ibaga runs through the south1eastern boundary of
4otigao"
:ne road passes through the wildlife sanctuary" *t is fairly difficult in some areas so it
would test your navigational skills" However, cool lush greenery will re/uvenate your
senses while your walk through the wildlife sanctuary" 4ome and en/oy sweet chirping of the birds and other sounds of
forests while your trip in the sanctuary"
T"e Floa
Moist1deciduous type trees are main vegetation of 4otigao !anctuary" !ome of the trees attain the heights up to D%
metres" #his vegitation is interspersed with semi1green and evergreen forests"
T"e Fa#na
Enfortunately 4atigao ildlife !anctuary offers limited wildlife sights" #he reason is that all the tigers and leopards of the
forests were hunted out long ago" However you may spot ild boars, two species of Monkey and 0aurs" 9ou may also find
other animals including Bison, ,angur, Pangolin, 6eer, Black Panther, 0a+elles, Porcupines, !loth Bears, Hyenas and
Panthers besides these animals"
T"e A&ti$ities
#rek along the mud trails and take a trial at Bhutpal" 9ou can climb $) m high ladder into a treetop shelter" 9ou will have a
pictures'ue view of waterhole located very near and its scenic surroundings" alk further to enchanting location of Bela
,ake" #his lake inside the sanctuary is /ust 8". km from Hathipal Eco1tourism comple3" @isit Nature *nterpretation 4entre
which has several Botanical and faunal e3hibits as an interesting diversion"
!everal charming Bandharas and waterholes at 4atigao ildlife !anctuary" 4limb into D1m high watch tower at #ulsimol"
9ou can see animals who come to drink water especially during early morning and late evening hours"
Lo&ation
*n east 4anacona #aluka, )- km from 0oa;s capital
'est Season
:ctober to March
Ent( Fee
<s for =dult, <s 8 for 4hild Aadditional for camera and vehiclesB
W"ee to Sta(
Hathipal Eco1tourism 4omple3 of 5orest 6epartment has a -1bedded cottage, a D1bedded cottage and . thatched tents"
#he comple3 is open during :ctober to =pril" = 5orest <est House is also available for you at Poinguinim, but it is mostly
used by forest officers" *n case you want to go for an overnight stay, either in watchtower or forest department;s rest
house, you should take the prior permission from 6eputy 4onservator :f 5orests"
)o* to Rea&"
6abolim airport is &. km away from 4otigao" #his airport has flights from almost all the ma/or cities like Mumbai, 6elhi
and Bangalore" 9ou can hire ta3i to reach the sanctuary then onwards" he nearest railheads from 4otigao are Margao A.D
kmB and Pana/i A)- kmB" Buses ply to 2arwar halt at 4anacona from then onwards" Buses plying south on NH $& to
2arwar halt via 4haudi will drop you well within the periphery of 8 km"
Salim Ali 'id San&t#a(
*f a bird lover plans a trip to 0oa, his trip is not complete without visiting !alim =li Bird
!anctuary" <egarded as ;the paradise of bird watchers;, it is named after *ndia;s most
renowned ornithologist" Hoe to a large variety of birds, this is the only one bird sanctuary
of 0oa"
9ou will find umpteen number of domestic and migratory birds in this sanctuary, spread in
$") s' km" 9ou may also spot other rarefied wildlife here including *ndian rock Python,
smooth *ndian otter and flying fo3"
Mangrove swamps are on the western tip of the 4horao island besides river Mandovi" #he mangroves are abundant with
chirping birds, making the overall ambiance really memorable" =lmost $> species of mangroves are found here, which
makes it an ideal breeding ground for planktons, shrimps, estuarine fish and tiny crabs" Mangroves also provide feeding
ground for bird species"
T"e A$i%a#na
= large variety of migratory birds can be seen in this bird sanctuary during November to 5ebruary" Pintail ducks,
4ormorants, Mallards, Purple Moorhen and !torks are some of the famous migratory birds which can be easily spotted"
= large variety of resident birds can be spotted here" #hese include Herons, 6rongos, Eagles, 2ites, 2ingfisher, Baya
Aweaver birdsB, Purple !un bird, Egrets, #ailor Birds, 0rey1headed Myna, <ed1wattled ,apwing, <edshank, 4ommon
!andpipers, 0reen Bee1eater and Pheasant1tailed ?acana"
Some A&ti$ities
= network of water channels criss1cross !alim =li Bird !anctuary" 9ou may cruise along the placid waters of the canals to
the gentle sound of the water gently lapping against the boat and sweet chirping of the birds" 9ou may also have a
spectacular view of the white1bellied sea eagle coming down swiftly to catch a fish from the waters when you are on boat
cruise" :therwise, you also can climb the watch1tower which was built in this Bird !anctuary to provide a better view of
the birds"
Lo&ation
,ocated on 4horao island in #iswadi #aluka, . km from Pana/i
'est Season
November to 5ebruary but anytime in the year with the permission of warden, 5orest 6eptt"
Ent( Fee
<s .%
W"ee to Sta(
9ou are advised to stay at Pana/i if you are coming to visit !alim =li Bird !anctuary" #his town has plenty of
accommodation available in Pana/i, which can be opted as per your re'uirements and budget" Hotel 4asa Pinho, Hotel
=shoka Pla+a, Hotel 6elmon, Hotel 4heck *nn, Hotel ,a 0rande and Hotel Manvins are some of the best hotels in 0oa"
)o* to Rea&"
Nearest ma/or city is Pana/i, capital city of 0oa" 9ou can hire a ta3i or ride a bus to reach <ibander ferry /etty" #his /etty is
situated at a distance of D km from Pana/i along ,inhares 4auseway" 9ou can take a ferry across Mandovi river to the
island of 4horao"
'ondla Wildli%e San&t#a(
0oa attracts all including wildlife enthusiasts" #here are numerous wildlife sanctuaries in
0oa where you may find umpteen number of endangered animal species besides virgin
treasure of natural beauty" Bondla ildlife !anctuary is smallest of the 0oan wildlife
sanctuaries" ,ocated up in green1covered foothills of the estern 0hats, Bondla is the
home to !ambhar and ild Boar" !pread in a wide area of )1s'1km, it is very easily
accessible" #his wildlife sanctuary is situated ..1km from Pana/im and D)1km from
Margoa" *t houses a Botanical 0arden, fenced 6eer Park and a Foo" #he +oo is rated the
best in the area having enough spacious enclosures"
Bondla wildlife sanctuary is a suitable destination for a trip with whole family" =s you walk along, you may spot a giant red
Malabar s'uirrel, a wild Boar, a !ambar or several other wildlife" =n archaeological e3hibit in the form of a statue of the
deity 0a/ala3mi" 9ou can also check out the collections at the Nature Education centre"
9ou can also watch the crocodiles as they clamber themselves out of the water and rest over the rocks in the sun" Bondla
is also good for bird1watching too" *t really enthralls to hear the chirping of large variety of birds including *ndian scimitar
babbler, Brown fish owl, :riental dwarf 2ingfisher and <uby throated yellow bulbul"
Established originally to house orphaned animals, the +oo is now a breeding colony for large species of deer" 4overing )1
s'1km of deciduous forest, Bondla is a miniature +oo of sort housing caged animals and birds" = popular picnic destination
for locals, Bondla +oo offers elephant rides as a ma/or attraction"
T"e Fa#na
ild Boar, Monkeys, 6eer, ,angurs, 0aur, ?ackals, ,eopards and Pythons are residing fearlessly in the hills of southeast"
#his is also another bird1watching haven, 'uite similar to its counterparts at 4horao and 4otigao" #wo rivers flow very near
the forest 1 <angado river on the east and Madhel on its north" Bison, 6eer, ild Beer, ,eopard, birds and various types of
serpent are also found here at Bondla forests" 9ou can also visit the only mos'ue !afa !hahouri Mas/id on the way" Built
by =li =dilshah in $.-%, this monument can be seen at Ponda"
Lo&ation
,ocated in Ponda #aluka in 4entral 0oa, 8% km from Mollem, .8 km from Pana/i
'est Season
:ctober to March
("%% am to ."%% pm, #hursday closed A0arden and FooB
Ent( Fee
=dult <s ., 4hild <s 8 Ae3tra charges for camera and vehiclesB
#wo wheelers <s $%, 4ars <s .%, Mini busesG@ans <s $%%
Elephant <ides <s )% per ride A> personsB
)o* to Rea&"
6abolim =irport is /ust .% km from this wildlife sanctuary" 9ou can ride a bus or hire a ta3i to reach the sanctuary" *ts
nearest railhead is Margao AD- kmB which is well1linked with the other ma/or destinations of the country" 9ou can hire a
ta3i to reach Bondla then onwards" 9ou also can access Pana/i A.8 kmB to reach Bondla"
SPORTS , GOA
Wate S&ootes in Goa
=n ideal destination for water sports, 0oa, offers non1parallel opportunities for your thrill
and en/oyment" People with the love for adventure have a habit for being on the edge" *f
you en/oy the speed of life, you may find water scooters really thrilling" #hese high1
speed vehicles can accommodate two persons" ater scooters +oom through the water
surface at great speed" #hese popular form of sports in 0oa are generally used by water
guards"
ater scooter ride may not last longer but you will en/oy even this small but thrilling
ride on large ocean waves" #he waves may hit your face and you may be tempted to
hold the life1/acket of your ride1partner very strongly as the scooter +ooms through the
waves with great speed" #his water sports offers all the thrills of a motor bike with the
tenderness of an ocean instead of hard tar road below your feet" #he speed of the
scooter depends up on the fact how much scared you are" #he person handling the
scooter decides the speed"
Sta( Conne&tion
Perhaps you may still be carrying the memories of a #@ serial ;Baywatch;" *f you want to find enacting as a character of
this #@ serial including voluptuous Pamela, you can en/oy riding water scooters in 0oa" 9ou may also remember Hindi flick
;6il 4hahta Hai; when the lovelorn fan screamed H=akashH from her ater !cooter as the male protagonist A=amir 2hanB
ducks in embarrassment"
Some memoies
:ne of the tourist reminisces with /oy HMy water scooter was very fast with a lot of bumping on the waves" * was partially
soaked when * came out of it" My sons were a bit annoyed" #hey had complains that they were treated like mere kids"
#here scooters were very slow for for their liking" My elder nephew did not even get soakedIH
W"ee to +et *ate s&ootes
4idade de 0oa, 6ona Paula /etty, Ma/orda and 4andolim beach are some of the sites where water scooters are available"
W"en to +o %o *ate s&ootes
#he best season for en/oying water sports in 0oa is from :ctober to May" *t;s the season when the skies are cloudless and
blue and the water remains placid"
Somet"in+ spe&ial a-o#t Goa
E3tremely placid water and gentle bree+e at 0oa make it a suitable place even for the beginners" #hey can try riding
water scooters without having much fear" !ome tourists ride these water scooters because they give an rare opportunity
of watching dolphins from close 'uarters"
Rates
Normally you may be asked to pay <s 8%% per person for water scooter ride" =lthough the operators may come to even as
below as <s $%% per person"
Sea Fis"in+ in Goa
!ea fishing is a sport, very rare until recent years and yet to catch on in 0oa" *t has some very uncommon features
among all the adventure water sports" 9ou may wait for hours /ust to have a catch and even then you may or may not get
the catch" !ea 5ishing involves going far out in a motor boat and to e3pect some catch including kingfish, tuna and /ack
fish" :perators take the groups to bait and Butterfly *slands, much closer to shore, for fishing"
!ports fishing or recreational fishing is still a famous water sport throughout the world" 2eeping in mind the popularity of
sports enthusiasts, a set of regulations came into e3istence" #here are specific guidelines for the fishing season in which a
certain species can be caught, the permission for minimum catch per day and the choice of fishing sites"
*t offers an opportunity for the fishing freaks to find out the une3plored territories from vast e3panse of the sea housing
countless treasures" 5ishing also spurs us to challenge our daring and prove our worth" =ll of us love to transcend our
limits" =gonda Beach is the most popular place to en/oy sea fishing as it offers a large variety of !oormai, salmon and
mullet"
Fis"in+ E.#ipments
=ll you will need a barbed metal hook at the end of nylon or 6acron line, a wood, fiberglass or metal rod or pole" Heavier
rods and reels of the bait1casting type are used in salt1water fishing" Esual methods are however trolling and casting from
the surf"
W"en to +o %o %is"in+
5ishing tours to 0oa are a great delight as it offers the tourist a sense of immense pleasure in doing this local activity with
the fishermen" #he most suitable time for fishing is before and /ust on the top of the high tide" #he bait used for the fishes
is the sardine or shrimp, available locally in the market"
Fis"in+ on t"e -ea&"
*t involves a lot of effort, often thwarted by sea waves" 5ishing in the serene beaches is always preferred as it enhances
the en/oyment" 9ou may get <ockfish, !tingray and 0uitarfish"
Fis"in+ on t"e -oat
Many boats are also available on hire for sea fishing" *t may cost some around ten pounds for three hours" Boat fishing is
divided into two types Bottom fishing and trolling" *f you choose bottom fishing, you may
come across the rocky outcrops along the shore"
A+e Limit
=dults only
Rates
<s .%% pr hour A=ppro3B
S!ills Re.#ied
Patience in plenty
Sa%et( Tips
2eep all the emergency procedures in mind while going for sea fishing"
S&#-a Di$in+ in Goa
!ome of the most fulfilling e3perience of a holiday in 0oa is the discovery of a colourful
underwater" #he tur'uoise, blue green and a'uamarine waters in the islands of Maldives,
the presence of !panish and Portuguese galleons and orld ar ** ships are the ma/or
underwater attractions" 0rande *sland and Malvan !hoal are other ma/or diving sites
around 0oa"
4olourful and beautiful shells, attractive corals and fishes attract all of us to e3plore more"
!cuba 6iving unearths the underwater treasure of 0oa" !cuba 6iving helps you to unearth
the underwater treasure of 0oa" Enderwater visibility in 0oa ranges for five meters to ten
meters throughout the peak season" #ourists prefer 0oa for !cuba 6iving because the
waters here are temperate and safe" Even the beginners find it comfortable to dive
because these is a total absence of riptide currents"
S&#-a Di$in+ Geas
Masks, !norkels and 5ins are the basic diving gears" !ingle, two, three and four window masks are the best option for
better visibility especially under deep water" !lip on fins allow more water to flow over the blade, so, these are suitable for
warm water diving" 9ou can choose strap fins for a better performance" #hese fins allow a smoother and more powerful
kick without much effort"
W"ee to +o %o S&#-a Di$in+
0oa has a marine life of 0oa, 'uite similar to that of the Maldives" 0rand *sland is a preferred site for local diving" !u+y;s
reck, !ail <ock, 6avy ?ones ,ockers, !ail <ock, #unnel, Bounty Bay, !urge 4ity and Ema 0uma <eef" =nother world class
diving site, =ngria Bank, is a world class diving site, $8% km from 0oa" =n underwater mass about half the si+e of 0oa is a
reservoir of fishes and corals" *t will be a memorable e3perience for you to en/oy diving here"
W"en to +o %o S&#-a Di$in+
:ctober to May is the best season for en/oying scuba diving because the skies are blue and cloudless and the water
remains placid"
Some Tips
Before committing to a full1fledged course, check out #ry 6ives" *t is held every Mondays at !un @illage in =rpora, 4idade
de 0oa at @aunguinin Beach, 6ona Paula and 0oa Marriotte <esort in Miramar"
4ertain safety options should always be kept in mind while diving" Never dive alone, dive with the partner instead as this
ensures the help in the very moments of need"
6isplay a ;6iver Below; flag to advice your presence to boat drivers and /et skis" 9ou should be totally fit physically and
mentally to before going for diving"
9ou should also keep in mind all the safety precautions while planning your diving trip" *f the region is protected one, this
applies more" Never let the plants damaged, wildlife disturbed and any garbage left behind"
E3perts and instructors are always there" #hey have the right to refrain any participant from undertaking the adventure" *f
any participant has a heart disease, respiratory or sinus related problems, a doctor;s certificates is re'uired" $8 years is
the minimum age for diving in *ndia and will be only at instructor;s discretion
Wate S!iin+ in Goa
ater1skiing is not only a perfect rela3ation beach holiday activity on the beach sites of
*ndia, but also an suitable adventure sport on the seacoast" #he best beaches suitable for
water1skiing are located in 0oa" Numerous beach resorts and hotels in 0oa are well1
e'uipped enough to provide all the facilities needed for the water1skiing"
ater1!kiing demands strength and skill" 9ou should be prepared for tumbles and
resulting soreness" 9ou need strong leg and back muscles and a rela3ed posture" #his new
adventure sports in *ndia is a more thrilling than snow skiing" #he reason is that there is
no snow or mountainous slopes" 9ou glide on water instead" *n addition to it, you need to
be good swimmer because you may have to let go off the tow1rope attached to the boat"
Being stiff, in fact, doesn;t help at all here" 9ou should practice bending your knees slightly
and maintaining them parallel to each other" ater1!kiing is a ma/or tourist attraction in 0oa"
=ll one who en/oy gliding through waves, would find splashing through the watery depths" !urfing and water1skiing are
'uite similar to each other but the ma/or difference is that your hands are not free in water1skiing" !econdly, surfing can
take place in the high tides of the ocean, water1skiing is not limited to sea only, it can be done in the lakes also"
Some Tips
Ensure that there is another observer on the boat besides the operator" *f waters are rough, you should avoid skiing"
4hoppy seas prevent the boat from maintaining a steady course and speed" *t;s best if you go over the hand signals with
the operator to avoid miscommunication and confusion"
*f you are a first timer, then you may get seasick" Beginners in this sport get nervous and sea sick" But once you ac'uire
the sense of balance, you may find riding on the as a piece of cake"
9ou should let the driverGobserver know you are all right after a fall, by clasping both hands above your head" ater1
skiing is very tough, so you should get your basics right" *f you find the e3citement becoming too much, you always have
an option of letting go the tow1rope if the e3citement become too much for you"
ater1skiing, in fact, is a good e3ercise to your body" *t strengthens your muscles of arms and legs" !o you should always
be cautious, if it is for the first time for you" *t will be 'uite tiresome for you" #he best way to get trained in water1skiing is
to try it on a dry land" 9ou can also get through with the balancing act on the water"
W"ee to Wate S!iin+
4alangute, 4andolim, =rossim, Mobor, Etorda, <a/baga
Rates
<s >%%1$,8%% Adepends upon length of ride and operatorB
T"e S!ills Needed
Physical stamina, comfort with water
Paasailin+ in Goa
=nother thrilling water sport of 0oa, Para sailing is also known as Para =scending" :nly a speedboat and a parachute is
re'uired in it" Parachutes are tied to the speedboats and a D%% feet long rope is attached to speed boat at one end and
para sail harness at the other" ith the speedboat gaining the momentum, Para !ailor is hauled up in the air and it has
little or no control over the parachute" #he speed is controlled by tow1vehicles" #he person flying the para sail controls its
sideways" 9ou can en/oy the view of clear blue1sky and captivating water body below" =ll the speed lovers who love high
flying can opt for this water sport" *t is very popular among all the tourists visiting 0oa" !ensing the huge popularity of
Para sailing, government and non1governments organi+ations organi+e training sessions of para sailing in 0oa at a very
nominal rate for tourists"
#he dream of flying like a bird while soaking up the beauty of 0oan coastline can be reali+ed by para sailing" #here are
two ways of doing it 1 winch1boat para sailing and beach para sailing" 9ou alone take off and land on a winch boat in
winch1boat para sailing" 9ou are launched from the beach itself in beach para sailing" Beach landing can be tricky" *t
re'uires good coordination and e3pertise of ground staff and powerboat operator" =s all the operators may not be trained,
you should be careful while choosing a operator"
W"ee to Paasail
#he beaches offering para sailing facilities include 4ondolim beach, =n/una beach, Ma/orda beach, Baga beach and 6ona
Paula beach" !ome of the hotels including #he #a/ and Bogmallo <esort provide necessary tools for this enthralling sport"
Para !ailing !in'uerim14andolim14alangute gives a view of 5ort =guada and also of the grounded tanker <iver Princess"
:ther views to take in the =rossim14ansaulim and Etorda streatch with a stunning coastline and the isolated 0rande and
Bait islands off the Mormugao 4oast nearby" Mobor Beach is specially near #he ,eela Palace Hotel, where the <iver !al
meets the =rabian !ea and forms a pristine Mobor Peninsula, crowned by Betul Hillock" 9ou can get the views of the
Mandoli meeting the sea views of the Mandovi meeting the sea"
W"en to Paasail
:ctober to May is the best season for en/oying para sailing" !kies are clear and cloudless and deep blue" ater remains
calm and placid in these days"
Rates
<s .%% to <s $,8.% are charged for D to . minutes ride in addition to boat ride charges"
T"e S!ills Needed
9ou are /ust re'uired to be comfortable with height and other gear before taking off" =part from boat operator, ensure that
there is another observer in the boat" #he reason is that boat operator can not keep an eye on you"
Ot"e Spots in Goa
/et0S!iin+
#his is for those who who love speed" ?et1skis with $%%1$D. hp1powered engine, are used in
0oa rush high1adrenalin thrills" 9ou may easily get carried away with this pretty
uncomplicated machine" #hat is the reason why most operators make it mandatory for an
instructor to accompany the rider" *f your skills satisfy your instructor, you may also be
allowed a solo run"
W"ee to /et0S!i
4andolim, 4olva, 4alangute, Miramar, Etorda, =rossim, Benaulim, Mobor, <a/baga
Rates
4harges for the rides between 8, $% and $. minutes may cost <s >%%, <s $,%%% and $,.%%
respectively"
<s 8,.%% for a D%1min /et1ski ride at *nternational 0rand <esort at <a/banga
Knee0and0Wa!e 'oadin+
@ery similar to water1skiing, knee1boarding has a slot for your knees and there is to it" *t re'uires less focus on balance
than water1skiing and is a very simpler techni'ue" #he skier has one broad board instead o f two narrow ones on which to
maintain balance in wake1boarding"
W"ee to +o
Mobor, 4andolim and <a/banga
Rates
<s &%%1$,8%% for $. minutes
S!ills e.#ied
9ou should be at ease with water and well versed in water skiing"
Some Tips
#here should always be an observer besides the boat operator"
'anana1 '#mp & Rin+o Rides
@ery popular among kids, Banana rides are one of the latest attractions in water sports in 0oa" *t is really enthralling to sit
on a si31seat banana1shaped contraception and to be towed by a speedboat rolling and pitching over undulating sea
waves" #here are some variations in <ingo or bump rides" Be prepared for the flip at the very end of the ride because it
adds that bit of e3tra e3citement for beginners" =s everybody is in life /ackets, it is pretty safe too"
W"ee to +o %o it
=vailable on all the ma/or beaches
Rates
<s 8%% per head per $. minute ride, appro3imately
S!ills needed
9ou should be at ease with water"
Catamaan2)o-ie Cat Sailin+
= more rela3ed sailing activity, 4atamaran !ailing is made up of a twin hull with trampoline in between the hulls and a
mast for sailing" *t has a normal seating capacity of accommodating four persons" = trained professional is re'uired to sail
the catamaran for the en/oyment with safety"
W"ee to sail
4alangute, 4andolim, 6ona Paula, =rossim, Etorda, Benaulim,4aolva, Mobor
Rates
<s -%%1$,.%% per hour
S!ills e.#ied
= high level of skill and training
S#pe&oss Ra&in+
= !upercross 4hampionship ,eague featuring <M !u+uki, 4< Honda, 27 2awasaki, 9F 9amaha and 2*M $8. cc bikes are
being organi+ed in *ndia for the very first time" #his championship began in November 8), 8%%> and continued till May$,
8%%." !tate government funded the championship" !upercross event is held on a fortnightly basis Aevery alternate
!undayB in the very first kind of stadium in the country" #he stadium is spread over 8.,%%% s' m"
Rates
<s $%% for outside circleG <s D%% for inner circle
Mi&olite0Fl(in+ 2Moto Cas in Goa
0oa has umpteen number of options for water sports" Microlite flying is the latest addition"
= motori+ed machine with a forty feet wing span, microlite can accommodate two to three
persons including one operator" 9ou need not to know gliding for microlite flying because it
is a operators /ob" 9ou are /ust e3pected to sit and en/oy unfolding 0oa beneath you"
Microlite1flying is a new fad among a clutch of aviation enthusiasts in *ndia" = basic
microlite, in fact, can be assembled for /ust around <s .1- lakh, somehow e'uivalent of
buying a car for a middle class person" #he hobby of flying is infectious in nature" #he
moment passion catches on, it becomes too hard to give it up" Microlite flying is a
variation of hang1gliding" *t was initially introduced by Nikki;s #ravel !ervices at =n/ana,
0oa from November, 8%%>"
=bility of being able to assemble a microlite with commercially available parts is half the fun in itself" Microlites typically
use motorcycle or lawnmower engines although certified but costly engines are also available" #heir normal speed is about
$8% kilometres per hour, consuming around $> litres of petrol per hour" #hese can stay in the air for five hours at a
stretch" Microlites can be also be designed to be open to the elements, with the wind rushing past you"
Microlites are new to *ndian skies" <a/iv 0andhi, *ndia;s late Prime Minister and a trained pilot himself, cleared the use of
this addictive sport in the civil sector way back in $()(" Microlite flying has gained the phenomenal popularity since then"
=lmost all the human beings have always envied the birds for their ability to fly" H=viation is very addictiveH, says one
microlite flier HMicrolite flying is like e3periencing an orgasm,H he continues"
= single1seater should ideally weigh less than DD% kg and a twin1seater, >.% kg" *t can reach a cruising height of around
$$,%%% feet although most fliers prefer to stick closer to the ground, D,%%% feet or so" But these can;t be flown at night
and unfriendly weather conditions" #hese cannot be used for aerobatics also" *f the government eases regulations a bit, it
would be populari+ed more"
W"ee to +o %o Mi&olite Fl(in+
#his facility is only available at 4alangute"
W"en to +o %o Mi&olite0%l(in+
=nytime when the weather conditions are friendly" *deal conditions for it are as follows"
Ma3imum wind speed $. to 8% mph
@isibility more than . km in flight
4loud base above $%%% feet
Medi&al Re.#iements
9ou should get a declaration of fitness form by your doctor" Medical re'uirements are almost similar to those in case of
driving" *t is restricted only for adults with no upper age limit"
E.#ipments needed
Headsets, helmets, flying suits, gloves, warm clothing, thick pair of socks during winters
Rates
<s $,.%% per person for around $.G8% minutes and <s 8,.%% for D% minutes appro3imately
FORTS
Fot A+#ada
Intod#&tion
Have you ever e3perienced a mi3ture of ancient Portuguese territory and a five star
lu3urious stayC 6o you think it is genuine blendC ell even if you;ve the slightest doubt in your mind, let;s clear it outI =s,
staying and visiting this fort will be your life time e3perience, knowing the Portuguese culture along with modern
amenities" 5ort =guada Beach <esort is a venture of #a/ 0roup of Hotels and has been fashioned from the remains of the
$-th century Portuguese 5ort"
Lo&ation
!ituated at the top of !in'uerim plateau in Barde+ #aluka, commanding the vast e3panses of =rabian !ea, the fort was
graded as a reference point of ships" Built on the mouth of river Mandovi, it was strategically located and was the chief
defence of Portuguese against the 6utch and Marathas" Perched on a high cliff, this fort was perhaps the strongest fort
protecting Portuguese territory"
Reno*ned Fo Its Fas&inatin+ Lo&ation
Built on the ramparts of $-th century Portuguese fortress, the 5ort =guada Beach <esort makes for a stunning sight from
the elegant terraces to the emerald gardens below" #he 5ort =guada Beach <esort is famous on account of this 5ort that
has partially lasted the ravages of time and now been converted into a beach resort"
)isto(
#he fort derived its name from Portuguese word H=guadaH which symboli+es HaterH" #he fort was built by Portuguese in
$-$8 =6 near Mandovi <iver" #he motto behind the fort was to protect 0oa against any enemy attack from sea" #he fort
houses a spring which supplied water to ships in earlier times" #he fort e3hibits the splendour of Portuguese rule in 0oa"
Atta&tions in Fot
=s you move around and inside this fort you;ll be astonished to see the unfolding beauty of this massive structure" !ome
of the interesting features you will come across in the fort are a $(th century lighthouse which once housed a monolithic
bell, an enormous water tank that could store ten million litre fresh water, and a prison in the basement interestingly the
largest in 0oa"
Fot A+#ada 'ea&" Resot
Presently, the fort has been converted to a . star heritage hotel with all recreational facilities" ith sea1facing delu3e
cottages and villas spread over an ))1acre #a/ comple3, 5ort =guada Beach <esort, is popular with international and
domestic tourists for its princely comforts, personali+ed services, maiden beaches, tropical setting, and ultimate location"
*t offers a fabulous opportunity at self1healing and re/uvenation with its lu3urious !pa =guada and a host of other facilities
for recreation and bodily freshness"
Nea-( Pla&es
Many tourist attractions and places of historical significance are located near the 5ort =guada Beach <esort in 0oa" #he
location of 5ort =guada Beach <esort of 0oa is at a place from where the tourists can get to the well1known destinations"
9ou can visit the little 4hurch of !t ,awrence which is near" Built in $-D%, this church is a must visit site"
)o* To Rea&"
5rom the Pan/im Bus !tand, the location of 5ort =guada Beach <esort in 0oa is at a distance of around $. kilometers"
#ourists will find *nnumerable modes of transportation from these places to the location of 5ort =guada Beach <esort in
0oa"
Mom#+ao Fot
Intod#&tion
9ou might e3pect a fort to have stern and uncluttered look 1 but not this one" #he fort commands a magnificent look and
is worthy of being visited" 6ating back to $-8>, this was once the most important of coastal forts" #he fort is near to the
internationally famous Marmagoa Harbour which was built to protect the harbour situated near the @asco da 0ama town"
Lo&ation
*t is situated at the e3treme northwestern point of !alsete and guard the entrance to the port" ,ocated /ust north of @asco
6a 0ama city and /ust south of Mormugao Port, this is the closest fort to 0oa;s airport" Primarily, Mormugao was
generali+ed to be the capital of the Portuguese empire, hence the fort was erected and in $&%D the viceroy moved into the
town"
An In%omati$e Ins&iption
=n inscription over the fort of the gate reads Ain translation from the PortugueseBJ #he 4atholic 2ing 6om 5ilippe, the third
of this name, reigning in Portugal, 6om 5rancisco da 0ama, fourth 4ount of @idigueira, =dmiral of *ndia, a member of His
Ma/esty;s 4ouncil and a 0entleman of the <oyal Household, being @iceroy for the second time, this 5ortress was begun,
the first stone being laid on """=pril $-8>K"H"
A Pop#la Fot
#he Maratha warriors continued to attack the town and the fort and finally the Portuguese gave up the township in
preference for :ld 0oa" =s, a main constituent of 0oan history, and being one of the most important *ndia forts it is also
very popular with those indulging in historical travel activities of 0oa"
Atta&tions O% Fot
#he fortress is about $% km in circumference and boasts of possessing some ancient articles like 8% bulwarks, three
maga+ines, five prisons, a chapel and 'uarters for the guard" #here were two beautiful fountains" #he 5onte de Malabar
kept the royal arms and was said to bob up from a gold mine and the 5onte de !anto *gnacio which had a more modest
beginning in a sulphur mine"
Nea '( Pla&es
Mormugao fort is closer to @arca beach" @arca has a belt of wooden fishing boats that are peculiar in their appearance"
#his too has proven to be very popular with visitors from around the world and is well worth a visit"
)o* To Rea&"
'( Ai
6abolim, 0oa;s airport lies atop the rocky plateau which is >1km southeast of @asco da 0ama"
'( Rail
#he nearest railway station to Margoa is situated at @asco da 0ama"
'( Road
=rriving by bus from Pan/im or Margao is very easy as you;ll be dropped off to the nearest situated 2adamba bus #erminus
which is D1km east of the town centre from @asco" 5rom @asco you can hire ferries to reach Margao harbour"
C"apoa Fot
Intod#&tion
*f you think 0oa is only about beaches, wine and fun, check your memory" 5orts have
always been related to history" But these grandiose structures not only speak of past,
they demand fun loving environment too" #he pleasure of scaling the heights of a 0oan
fort to en/oy the view over the =rabian !ea is only imaginable if you take out time to
visit this fort" 6on;t you remember the spot in the movie ;6il 4hahta Hai; where, three
mega stars shared their emotions and watched the ships come and goC *t was 4hapora
5ort that was highlighted so much in the movie" asn;t the location looking splendorous
in the movieC =nd if you too want to be a part of it, visit 0oaI
Lo&ation
B#he fort of 4hapora is ) miles to the northwest of =guada and 8. kms from Pana/i" @agator beach is situated at the back
of this 5ort" 0oa 4hapora 5ort is situated near the =n/una beach in 0oa" 4hapora 5ort is also called as H!hahapuraH built
by =dil !hah of Bi/apur"
)isto(
#he 4hapora 5ort 0oa dating back to $-$&, is one of the finest e3amples of Portuguese architecture" *t was rebuilt by the
Portuguese as a border watch tower and later deserted by the Portuguese in $)(8 as the empire continued to draw farther
North, known as the New 4on'uests" #his 5ort is mostly in ruins now" #he massive walls and the scattered Muslim
headstones are all that is left of 4hapora 5ort" 6eserted since the $(th century, it is in complete ruins today though the
view down the coastline looks as wonderful as ever"
Atta&tion O% t"e Fot
#he view from the fort is magnificent and the houses built in dense groves of coconut palms, inhabited by fishing
community look very pleasing to the eyes"
Nea -( Atta&tions9ou can freak out at many places near to this fort" #here are many restaurants, banks, cafes, post
offices etc" 9ou can also en/oy the maiden beauty of the most popular beach in 0oa, the
=n/una beach, where you can spent your whole day" ith rocky and dry grasslands, the
@agator is also famous for its old Portuguese style mansions built in the colonial era"
)o* To Rea&" 3
= large number of buses come in from Mapusa and 4alangute Beach to 4hapora 5ort"
#here are direct buses too from Pan/im" 9ou can also hire rented motorcycles or ta3is"
Ca-o Pala&e Fot
Intod#&tion
6o you know tourists generally get confused between the 4abo Palace 5ort and the magnificently built <a/ BhavanC =s,
the fort has been transformed into <a/ Bhavan it is a bit hard to recogni+e it" But nevertheless, you;ll en/oy visiting this
grandiose structure"
Lo&ation
Built in $.>% ="6, this fort is situated on the south headland of the river Mandovi opposite 5ort =guada" #he 4abo 5ort is
known severally in the modern times as the 4abo 5ort, 4abo Palace, 4abo <a/ Niwas and even <a/ Bhavan" 4urrently, the
house of the 0overnor;s house, used to be the house of @iceroy in colonial *ndia"
Atta&tions o% t"e Fot
D#-a )all
#his was official reception area used for the swearing ceremonies and other official occasions"
Dinin+ oom
Has a massive capacity to accomodate over D% persons
Rooms
House three suites and seven double rooms"
Colle&ti-les
Bohemian chandeliers, 4hinese porcelain, silver and a wide range of high 'uality wooden furniture with delicate
workmanship" #he most uni'ue are the pieces of anti'ue 4hinese porcelain manufactured in 4anton" #here is also a worn1
out set of crockery having a similar design with same coat of arms" =ll these had been specially ordered for the use of the
Portuguese 0overnor 0eneral" #here is also a remarkable collection of high 'uality wooden furniture with e3'uisite
workmanship" = set of elaborately carved chairs are simply e3cellent for the fact that Hindu 0ods and #emples have been
carved on them"
C"apel
= small 4hapel was constructed at the very end of the mansion, dedicated to our virgin lady of the cape ANossa !enhora
do 4aboB" *t also served as a turning point for the seamen"Every ednesday, at around $$ a"m", =n/una breaks into a
flood of colours" Huge number of tourists vehicles start raising clouds of dust in its surroundings" hatever one needs,
from a used paperback to a haircut, one would find it here" #he flea market is a heaven for hardcore shoppers and good
bargainers, to bid on wonderful blends of #ibetan, 2ashmiri and 0u/arati trinkets and handicrafts, European snacks,
cassettes of a noisy brand of music called ;0oa #rance;, artificial ornaments carvings and #1shirts"
)o* To Rea&"
5rom the Pan/im Bus !tand, the location of 5ort =guada Beach <esort in 0oa is at a distance of around $. kilometers and
5ort 4abo is /ust opposite to 5ort =gauda" #ourists will find innumerable modes of transportation from these places to the
location of 5ort 4abo in 0oa"
S"i S"antad#+a Temple
Lo&ation
!hri !hantadurga #emple, is positioned $) kms from Margao, at 5atorpa ALuepemB" !ituated
at the foothill of 2avalem, the !hantadurga temple owns a beautiful massive tank called as
6ipa !tambha and =grashalas"
T"e oi+inal pla&e o% S"ee S"antad#+a De$i
#he original place of !hree !hantadurga devi was at 2eloshi" 5rom there devi was repositioned to 2avlem during the
dominance of Portuguese government" #he original site of !ri !hantadurga temple is 2ardelivana of Luelossim in
Mormugao #aluka, where the great poet 2rishnadas !hama composed epic H!ri 2rishna 4haritaH credibly in the $>th
century on the lines of 6nyaneshwari"
)isto(
#he temple was built in $&8) =6 during the rule of !hahu Mahara/ of !atara at the re'uest of Naro <am Mantri, one of his
very good ministers"
C#ent St#&t#e
T"is &#ent st#&t#e of !hree !hantadurga devi was built during the period from $&$D ="6 to $&D) ="6" Many
redevelopments has been done over the years to the main templeas well as the temples of other deities besides the
agarshala Mguest houseN which is built encircling the temple"
Ot"e Names
=t several places it is known by various names, H#hamaiH, H!ateriH, HBhumkaH, H=dimayaH and others"
Idol
!hree !hantadurga temple has an imposing idol of 0oddess !hree 6urga who speculated between !hree @ishnu and
!hree !hiva and ceased the fearful war going on between the two ,ords" !he is encircled by @ishnu and !hiva on both the
sides"
T"ee temples o% S"i S"antad#+a
#here are three temples of !hri !hantadurga 1 one at 2avlem, Pemem and 5atorpa ALuepemB" 0iven below are the details
of the three !hri !hantadurga #emple in 0oa"
S"i S"antad#+a 4Ka$lem53 =n opulently built temple is located DD kms from Pana/i" #he !hri !hantadurga temple has
a rich and beautiful ;0arbhakuda; Athe holy of holiesB where, the deity is kept" #he deity was shifted from 2elsi" #his
temple is dedicated to !hantadurga" !hantadurga is the 0oddess who mediates between @ishnu and !hiva" #he
;=grashalas; provide accommodation facilities to the devotees like lodgings etc"
S"i S"antad#+a 4Pemem53 #his !hri !hantadurga #emple is positioned $> kms from Mapusa at 6hargal, Pemem" #he
temple is set in the middle of e3tremely beautiful scenic environment" #he 0oddess of this !hri !hantaduega temple was
moved out at !an'uelim, when all the temples in Barde were destroyed by the Portuguese" !o, in $..% ="6 this 0oddess
was taken to 6hargal in Pemem #aluka which also formed a component of !ewantwadi territory" #he ;Fatra; of this
0oddess is held in the month of 6ecember"
S"i S"antad#+a 4K#n!olien!ain53 #his !hri !hantadurga temple is situated $) kms from Margao, at 5atorpa
ALuepemB" Earlier it was from 4uncolim village in !alcete #aluka, the 0oddess was removed to 5atorpa in $-th 4entury
during religious persecution by the Portuguese" #he annual ;Fatra; falls in the month of Pausha !huddha Navami and is
participated by thousands of devotees and tourists from all over the world"
Festi$al
#he annual +atra, which falls in the month of Pausha !huddha Navami draws thousands of devotees from all over the 0oa"
Man+#es" Temple
Lo&ation
Manguesh #emple is situated along the National Highway1>= about 8D1km from Pana/i"
Positioned 88 kms from Pana/i, this temple is set on a pictures'ue location, on a hillock
surrounded by lush green hills"
)isto(
=lthough the !ri Manguesh temple was hidden as a closed book in 4ortalim, but then, it
was moved to its present site between Mardol and Priol during the $-th century" #he
structure that tourists admire dates back to $&%%;s"
Deit(
,ord !hiva is the main deity worshipped in this temple"
Atta&tions o% Man+#es" Temple
#he temple is full of many attractions which are listed below1J
#he massive *el&ome +ate and an ele+ant lamp to*e 6No#-at!"ana6 dominating the temple tank makes the
tourist feel bewildered at its first sight and the =grashalas on three sides also give an enchanting look"
*t has an ai( atmosp"ee of a peculiar style" #he grand white tower at the entrance is a landmark of the countryside"
*nside, the %loo is surfaced with marble and decorative tiles which further highlight the white walls" #he beautiful raised
silver thresholds, with fluorite patterns, direct to the sanctum which houses a S"i$a Lin+am 7
= golden 6S"es"a6 ne3t to the ,inga and an image of !hiva compromises the main altar"
Le+end
#here is an interesting story or legend related to ,ord Manguesh, who is an incarnation of ,ord !hiva" #he name
Manguesh is not used for ,ord !hiva anywhere else in *ndia" 9ou;ll come to know why it is used in 0oa only"according to
legends once ,ord !hiva lost everything he had in a game of dice with his wife Parvati" =s decided, he went to go into self1
imposed e3ile and visited 0oa" But, Parvati could not live without her husband so she came to find out ,ord !hiva in
/ungles" ,ord planned to play a prank with her" He turned himself into a tiger to scare her" Parvati cried out for help and
uttered the words ;#rahi Mam 0irisha; A: ,ord of Mountains !ave MeIB" ,ord !hiva immediately turned himself back into
his normal form and the two were united"But the cry for help, and the words ;mam girisha; got linked with ,ord !hiva" *n
the course of time the words abbreviated to Manguirisha or Manguesh by which name he is known today also" = linga
which was left to mark the place where the legend happened was noticed by a local shepherd and finally a temple was
built to house ,ord Manguesh"
A&"ite&t#e
#he temple architecture is a blend of Hindu, 4hristian and Muslim charms and is illuminated in glorious lights during the
annual ?atra which is held in ?anuary" #he deity is taken out in a palan'uin and paraded in huge chariots during the
festival which is attended by thousands of devotees" 5estivals and many other religious activities are conducted at regular
intervals"
Goa Mansions 0 A&&#m#lation o% A&"ite&t#al Splendo#
6o you know the Portugese ruled over 0oa for >.% yearsC *sn;t it difficult to nullify the
influence of PortugeseC Houses are built by people, history preserves them and tourists
behold them in admiration" Portugese left 0oa in $(-$, but still where ever you look, you;ll
see their lasting impact on everything" #he country mansions were built between the $)th
and 8%th century, where *ndians and Europeans met" #he landscape of 0oa is dotted with
heritage houses, villas, mansions that are a reminder of the Portuguese era" #hrill yourself
by looking at some uni'ue e3amples of clever amalgam of the *ndian and Portuguese
styles" =t some places you can even en/oy the glimpses of European and *talian styles" !o,
now get ready to ama+e yourself by watching some of the e3clusive architectural heritages of 0oa" alk into any of the
grand mansions and you will be bewildered to see how much care is taken to beautify these residences"
Some o% T"e Gandiose St#&t#es
Sal$ado Da Costa Mansion
Plan a trip to ,outolim and astonish yourself by seeing some dream houses with fairy tales gardens scattered everywhere"
= $(th century creation will take your heart away by its magnificent grandeur" = creation of Padre Pedrinho and Padre
,aurence is known for its 0othic style windows, wide verandas and cluster columns"
Fi+#eedo Mansion
#he most fascinating feature of this house is the balcony or porch, with its pyramidal angled roof, supported on
elephantine columns, which are often crimped with intricately moulded capitals" !it on the entrance steps leading to the
balcony" #his passage was the place where, the family spent long hours in conversation" *t is ama+ing to see the adorned
ceilings, rich wall paintings and the 4hina mosaic that beautified its floors"
Mas&aen"as Mansion
#his mansion located on 0oa;s most happening beach =n/una has a rich and classic ;balcoes; AbalconiesB" =n , shaped seat
along the porch is carved out of e3pensive and delicate wood" #here are also some fine stained glass floral engravings
which re no longer made or available these days"
Sola Dos Cola&os Mansion
!olar dos 4olacoa Mansion is situated at <ibandar on the left bank of the <iver Mandovi, half1way between :ld 0oa and
Pan/im" *t is built in baro'ue style with an imposing frontage and an e3cellent view of islands and the historical churches
of :ld 0oa"
8i$ian Co#tin"o Mansion
@ivian 4outinho Mansion in 5atorda, at the entrance of Margao, depicts the hard work and sincerity that went into the
planning of the entrance of a house" #he 4outinhos had a well1maintained pictures'ue garden"
Cola&o Mansion
#his is perhaps the only mansion facing the water front wth beautiful walls colored in :31blood colour, one of the three
traditional colours of 0oan e3teriors, the other being hite Avery PortugueseB and indigo Avery *ndianB" #he corridor of
this massive structure runs along the front facade and faces the Mandovi <iver
D7 Pinto De Rosaio Mansion
Pinto de <osario Mansion is amidst Pan/im and Mapusa in Porvorim" #he rare pieces like cut1glass, silver, blue china, ivory
are of superb 'uality #he *talian floor tiling is the highlight of the parlour" =bove the intricately carved sofa is a 6utch
tapestry, an imitation of <embrandt;s Night atch" #he love1 chair is believed to be 8%% years old"
Some Ot"e Mansions
0oa is dotted with many other =rchitectural pieces such as magnificent =lbu'uer'ue mansion depicts an anti'ue
architectural art with classical balconies" #hen you can view Miranda Mansion1 built in $&$% this mansion has a separate
chapel for worship" #hen there is another mansion in Margao !at Burn+am an imitation of typical Portuguese style has a
doble storeyed facade" =nother marvel is 6r =lvaro ,oyola 5urtado Mansion in 4hinchinim e3hibiting richness unmatched
at the time it was built ie in $))D" *f you have a deep interest for architecture then /ust set on foot and you will discover
various e3amples yourself"
4*#*E!
Aam-ol
Lo&ation 3
=rambol is D81km, Northwest of Mapusa and 4hapora in 0oa"
=rambol 1 2now before you go
#he largest coastal village in Pernem district, and the only one really geared up for
tourism, is =rambol or Harmal, D8km northwest of Mapusa" *f you;re happy with basic
amenities but want to stay somewhere lively, this might be your best bet" #he village;s
two beaches are beautiful and still relatively une3ploited" Parties do occasionally happen,
drawing visitors across the river from =n/una and @agator, but these are rare intrusions
into an otherwise tran'uil, out1of1the1way corner of the state" =rambol is an ideal place
to spend some time in total peace and tran'uility" #he cool sea bree+e here and the
swaying palm trees create a perfect holiday atmosphere"
#he immediate coastline lacks the palm1fringed e3otic cliches of the southern 0oa beaches, but it has plenty of character
and is pretty in its own kind of way" #he main beach has ade'uate bodysurfing and there are several attractive bays to the
north"
Ma9o atta&tions 3
,ocated around an area of high ground west of the main coast road, =rambol provides all the basic amenities that are
needed to make a stay pleasant" !ome attractions J
Aam-ol 'ea&"
#he coastline lacks the palm1fringed e3otic clinches of the southern 0oa beaches but it has plenty of character and is
pretty in its own kind of way" #o reach Paradise beach , follow the track over the headland to the north" Beyond a rather
insalubrious smelling, rocky1bottomed cove, the trail emerges to a broad strip of soft white sand hemmed in on both sides
by steep cliffs"
Fes"*ate La!e
= small freshwater lake e3tends along the bottom of the valley into a thick /ungle" 5ed by boiling hot springs, the lake is
lined with sulphurous mud, which, when smeared over the body, dries to form a surreal, butter1coloured shell to revitalise
the skin"
Cana&ona
Lo&ation
#his is 0oa;s southernmost taluka" *ts capital is 4haudi" *t is the gateway to many of 0oa;s southern tip beaches including
=gonda, Palolem and <a/bhag"
Cana&ona 0 Kno* -e%oe (o# +o
5ar south of 0oa is 4anacona district 1 among the last parts of the territory to be included into the Novas 4on'uistas, and
has retained a distinct Hindu feel" *t was ceded to the Portuguese by the <a/a of !und in the #reaty of $&($" #he area also
boasts some of the state;s most striking scenery" !et against a backdrop of the /ungle1covered !ahyadri hills Ae3tension of
the estern 0hat rangeB, a string of pearl1white caves and sweeping beaches briefs its
indented coastline"
Ma9o Atta&tions
S"ee Malli!a9#n Temple
#his temple is situated at 4anacona" *t is dedicated to ,ord Mallikar/un, an incarnation of
,ord !hiva" *t was built in the $-th century and renovated in $&&)" #he temple contains
more than -% deities of different gods and goddesses inside" *t has massive wooden
pillars that are e3'uisitely carved" #he main festivals celebrated are <athasaptami or the
chariot festival is celebrated in 5ebruary and !higmo in =pril"
S"ee San#st"an Go!an Pat"a+ali /ee$ot"am Mat"1 Pat"a+ali
#his Math is situated at Parthagali, in 4anacona taluka" *t is a math of the 0aud
!araswat community, and was established in $>&. by !wami/i !hreemad
Narayanateertha" *t is headed by a !wami/i, an uninterrupted lineage of over 8D so far" *n the campus lies a Banyan tree,
considered to be a #apasya 2shetra, the site of revelation of the inner self by the process of meditation" #here are few
temples in the campus"
Cati+o Wildli%e San&t#a(
#he 4otigao ildlife !anctuary, $%1km southeast of 4haudi, was established in $(-( to protect a remote and vulnerable
area of forest lining the 0oa1 2arnataka border" Encompassing )-1s'1kms of mi3ed deciduous woodland, the reserve is
certain to inspire tree lovers" more"
Pololem 'ea&"
Palolem, 81km west of 4haudi, pops up more often in glossy holiday brochures than any other beach in 0oa more"
Ca$elosim 'ea&"
!leepy 4avelossim, straddling the coast road $$1km south of 4olva, is the last ma/or settlement in southwest !alcete"
A+onda
=gonda, $%1km north of 4haudi, can only be reached along the sinuous coast road connecting 4abo 6e <ama with NH1$>
at 4haudi" No signposts mark the turning and few of the tourists that whi++ past en route to Palolem pull off here, but the
beach, fringed along its entire length by #odi trees, is superb"
Map#sa
Lo&ation 3
Mapusa is situated $D 2ms, north of Pana/i" *t lies at the crossroads of National
Highways and is an important gateway to the beaches of North 0oa"
Map#sa 0 Kno* -e%oe (o# +o
#he town;s name, pronounced OMap1sa;, after the 2onkani words for Omeasure; and
Ofill;, is an indication of its commercial nature" Mapusa is the main commercial centre of
the population in the northern provinces of 0oa and the main town for the supplies if
you are staying at either =n/una or 4hapora" #his is the capital of Barde+ taluka, North
0oa" *t is famous for its 5riday Market when the whole of Barde+ comes to buy and sell
products of all kinds" *f you;re staying at 4alangute, Baga or 4andolin, you have choice
of Pana/i or Mapusa as service centre" #here;s not much to see in Mapusa, though the
5riday market is worth a visit" Besides being a busy market town, Mapusa is
conveniently close to some of 0oa;s most popular beaches"
Ma9o Atta&tions
!ome of the most popular beaches near Mapusa town are J
4alanguteJ =bout ) km south from Mapusa, 4alangute is 0oa;s most popular beach, a
highly commercialised but si++ling beach that offers good sunbathing, passable
swimming and the most delicious food along the coast"
'a+a3 = happening beach $% km west of Mapusa, crescent1shaped Baga is less crowded
than 4alangute, but comparatively safer for swimming" Baga has soft white sand and a
green backdrop of paddy fields" Baga is popular for water sports 1 parasailing, /et skiing,
body boarding and surfing, though the waves aren;t good enough for the professional surfers" =nother attraction of the
tourists are the dolphin cruises on a boat out at sea" Baga;s nightlife is more e3citing than 4alangute;s, with music, dance
and wine"
An9#na3 =n/una has traditionally been a rave centre and attracts partygoers and backpackers to its famous beach parties,
especially around the 4hristmas1New 9ear season" =n/una;s golden sands and tall coconut palms make the beachfront a
pretty hangout place and the sea is safe for swimming"
Aam-ol3 =rambol Aalso called HarmalB is pretty but not overcrowded" =rambol;s stretches of soft white sand would be
/ust what the doctor ordered for your peace of mind" #here are regular trance parties and even full moon parties here"
Ma+ao
Lo&ation3
!alcete #aluka, DD1km 5rom Pan/im in 0oa"
Ma+oa 0 Kno* -e%oe (o# +o
Margao, the capital and the chief town of !outh 0oa, has a decidedly Portuguese flavour
and an old world charm" Margoa is also the commercial centre of !outh 0oa" #he Math
of the @aishnavas was first established here" *n $.->, the early period of
4hristianisation, the ?esuits built a church, which was destroyed by the Mohammedans in $.&$"
5inally in $-&. the present 4hurch of the Holy !pirit was raised" :ne of the most magnificent of 0oa;s churches, with a a
uni'ue row of houses on either side of lavish architectural setup and mango tree lined rectangular s'uare in front"
#he history of Margoa can be estimated by the presence of the Pandava 4aves at ='uem =lto, ne3t to the 4hapel of !t"
!ebastian" Margoa offers the visitor a large garden and a children;s park in 0ogol" #he 4hapel of the Monte, built in $)8%
on a small promontory, provides a panoramic view of the city"
Ma9o atta&tion
#he ma/or attractions at Margoa 1 Beaches, #he :ld Market, Pandava 4aves, #he !teely 4hurch of #he Holy !pirit"
'ea&"es
!ome of 0oa;s top beaches near Margao are J
4olva J 4olva beach, - km from Margao, has a throbbing nightlife but a somewhat downmarket ambience by day" 4olva;s
highly commercialised with resort comple3es, large holiday crowds, trinket stalls, discos and restaurants and the
waterfront is clean and the water;s safe for swimming"
'ena#lim 3 Benaulim lies right in the centre of 4olva, & km west of Margao" Benaulim is a popular tourist hotspot with a
crop of lu3ury resorts, time1share apartments, guesthouses and moderately priced
hotels" 6espite its popularity, Benaulim still has an air of tran'uilityJ the beachfront is
beautiful, with silver sands, shady palm trees and safe waters"
Mo-o3 Mobor is the spot where 4olva ends and the <iver =ssolna meets the sea" #he
beach at Mobor lies in a sheltered cave overlooked by cliffs on one side 1 it makes for a
picture perfect setting"
Ma9oda3 Ma/orda lies 8 km north of 4olva, and is a pretty beach dominated by a lu3ury
resort, hotels, restaurants, shops, bouti'ues and the best European bakeries in 0oa"
!outh of Margao lie a host of 'uieter, more isolated beachesP venture beyond 4ape
<ama to the peace and beauty of the beaches at Palolem and 0algibaga1 perfect for a
day away from the crowds of bathers swarming around the more visited beaches"
Pana9i
Lo&ation
8(kms north of 6abolim airport in 0oa" Pana/i is the capital of 0oa"
Pana9i 0 Kno* -e%oe (o# +o
Pana/i is one of the *ndia;s smallest and most pleasant state capital" Built on the south
banks of the wide Mandovi <iver, it officially became the capital of 0oa in $)>D" #he
church on the main s'uare, the Baro'ue architecture, pretty villas, cobbled streets and
interesting buildings give Pana/i a distinctly Portuguese ambience" #he city lies by the
left bank of the Mandovi <iver, and close at hand are a bunch of good beaches, perfect for lolling around and soaking up
the sun"
4alled Pan/im by the Portuguese, Pana/i, which means the land that does not flood is the state capital of 0oa" Enlike many
other capital cities, Pana/i has a distinct rela3ed character" Most visitors consider Pana/i as little more than a transport
hub, but this lovely state capital has retained its Portuguese heritage and releases an aura more close to the
Mediterranean than of *ndia" *n the oldest part of the town, the Portuguese heritage has survived remarkably wellP there
are narrow winding streets, old houses with over changing balconies and red1tiled roofs whitewashed churches and
numerous small bar and cafes" Portuguese sign are still visible over many premises"
Ma9o Atta&tions
#he sights are few, but among those worth visiting are the old 4hurch of the *mmaculate 4onception Aon the hillside at
one end of the Municipal 0ardensB and the Mahalakshmi #emple" #he nearest beach is at Miramar, D 2m along the road to
6ona Paula"
!alim =li Bird !anctuary, Pilar !eminary, 5ontainhas, #he 4hapel of !t" !ebestian are some of the ma/or attractions here"
T"e 'ea&"es
6ona PaulaJ 6ona Paula is a pretty and peaceful beach shaded by palms and casuarinas, ( km southwest of Pana/i" #he
beach is named after 6ona Paula de Mene+es Aa viceroy;s daughterB who /umped off a cliff when refused permission to
marry a local fisherman" 6ona Paula is 'uite a hotspot, not only for its beauty but also because of a romantic legend that
gave the beach its name" #he hapless maiden is said to be entombed at the nearby <a/
Bhawan;s 4abo 4hapel" 6ona Paula beach offers water sports facilities, especially water
scootering"
MiramarJ #he beach closest to the capital Pana/i AD kmB, Miramar is conveniently located
in the heart of the state capital which is also why it is rather crowded, though you can
watch some spectacular sunsets, as the sun goes down at the confluence of the <iver
Mandovi and the =rabian !ea"
Ponda
Lo&ation 3
#he city of Ponda lies about 8)kms south1east of Pana/i and $&kms north1east of Margao
and is also the capital of Ponda #aluka "
Ponda 0 Kno* -e%oe (o# +o
Ponda is considered to be the heart of Hinduism in 0oa" Ponda taluka is most famous for
its temples" Hindus abandoned their coastal settlements and moved inland during the
Portuguese in'uisition, a ma/ority of them settled in Ponda, most of whom have made
the area their home for centuries" hen Portuguese arrived in 0oa, they destroyed every temples and mos'ues they
could lay their hands on" =s a result, temples in 0oa are generally set back from the coast and comparatively new,
although some are /ust about >%% years old"
Ponda is now a transportation centre and some of the best temples in 0oa are located here" = few small factories and
industrial estates have sprung up on the outskirts of the town due to its pro3imity to some of 0oa;s largest iron ore mines"
Ma9o Atta&tions
Sa%a Mas9id
#he !afa Mas/id is 0oa;s best1preserved si3teen1century Muslim monument" *t was constructed by =dil !hah in $.-% and
is also known as !afa !hahouri Mas/id" *t has a beautiful backdrop of wooded low hills rising in the background"
Ma"alsa Naa(ani Temple
#he Mahalsa Narayani #emple is dedicated to ,ord @ishnu;s consort ,a3mi, though
some people believe it is the ,ord @ishnu;s female form Mohini" = lamp tower, which is
seven floors high can also be found here" 0aruda, the great bird that was ,ord
@ishnu;s conveyance sits atop a pillar, which rests on the back of a turtle" #here are
intricately carved columns and painting of the $% avatars or incarnations of @ishnu"
S"i Man+es" Temple
#he !hri Mangesh #emple is set atop a hill at Priol, northwest of Ponda leading to :ld
0oa" #he temple has a seven1storey lamp tower Awhich is a uni'ue trait of Hindu
temples in 0oaB, a Nandi bull A,ord !hiva;s conveyanceB, as well as shrines to Parvati
and ,ord 0anesha" 6uring the festival of Mangesh ?atra, the rath Atemple chariotB is
pulled by several devotees"
S"antad#+a Temple
#he !hantadurga #emple is dedicated to 6urga" !hant means peace and 6urga supposedly mediated a dispute between
,ord !hiva and ,ord @ishnu, bringing peace to the worldP in the temple she is depicted in between the two deities" #he
interior has polished marble and several chandeliers provide that light" #he deity of !hantadurga with ,ord @ishnu and
,ord !hiva on either side is behind a silver screen" #his is one of the largest Hindu temples in 0oa"
Na+es" Temple
#he Nagesh #emple is dedicated to a form of ,ord !hiva, Nagesh, the 0od of serpents" #here is an inscription here dating
the temple back to $>$D, which was renovated some time in the $)th century" #his temple also has a lamp tower, five
floors high" #here are woodcarvings depicting scenes from the <amayana and Mahabharata" #here is a Nandi bull, ,ord
!hiva;s vahana or conveyance as well as shrines to ,ord 0anesha and ,a3mi1Narayan"
!outh of here lies the Mahala3mi #emple" *t is said to be the original form of the principal deity of the !hakti sect" =
Marathi inscription dates this temple back to $>$D"
Wildli%e San&t#aies
Ponda is also the gateway to 0oa;s wildlife sanctuaries, both the Bondla and the Mahavir ildlife !anctuary and also the
6udhsagar aterfalls"
8as&o0da0Gama
Lo&ation 3
#his is one of 0oa; s largest industrial and commercial cities located about D(kms southwest of Pana/i"
8as&o 0 Kno* -e%oe (o# +o
@asco da 0ama is a very neat & clean coastal town" Popularly known as @asco, this town was originally called !ambha/i"
*mposing huge buildings and a church dominates the city centre here" 4lose to Marmagoa Harbour and D km from
6abolim airport, @asco16a10ama is the /unction of the railway lines into 0oa" #he town was named after the legendary
Portuguese e3plorer and 0oa;s former @iceroy, 6om @asco da 0ama" *t lies on the western tip of the Mormugao peninsula
overlooking the mouth of the Fuari river" #his area came under Portuguese rule in $.>D and for a long time was a very
busy port"
Ma9o Atta&tion
!ome of the ma/or attractions of @asco are J
'o+molo 'ea&"
#he sandy beach at the end of the cave would be even more pictures'ue were it not for the monstrous multi1storey edifice
perched above it" Entil :beroi erected a huge five star hotel here, Bogmalo was /ust another small fishing village,
hemmed in by a pair of palm fringed headlands at the northern end of 4olva bay"
T"e Na$al A$iation M#se#m
*naugrated in $(() at 6abolim is the first naval museum in =sia" #he museum showcases the history of *ndian Naval
=viation, various aircrafts, weapons, sensors, safety e'uipment, rare photographs depicting 0oa;s liberation and artifacts
Aalso spelt as artefactsB" = multimedia games section is an added attraction" !ituated in the pictures'ue backdrop of the
Bogmalo beach, the museum has become a must1visit place for all tourists"
Ot"e Nea-( Atta&tions 3
'ea&"es 1 Bogmalo, @elsao, Ma/orda, 4olva,
C"#&"es 1 4hurch of !t" =ndrew, @asco, 4hurch of !t" =le3, 4urtorim, 4hurch of Holy !pirit, <achol !eminary, <achol
Temples 1 !hree 6amodar #emple, @asco
Mas9id 1 ?ama Mas/id, @asco
Mon#ments 1 4abo de <ama, Buddhist caves, <ivona
BE=4HE!
An9#na 'ea&"
Lo&ation
=n/una is a small village in north 0oa, on the shores of the =rabian !ea" *t lies $) km away from Pana/i, the capital of
0oa"
Climate
0oa has a consistent climate throughout the year with /ust meager fluctuations in the temperature" 6ecember and
?anuary might re'uire light woolens, but =pril and May are warm" #he period from ?une to :ctober brings heavy rain,
almost up to D8% cm" #he temperature during the summers ranges from 8>Q4 to D8"&Q4 and during the winters it ranges
from 8$"DQ4 to D8"8Q4"
T"e 'ea&"
=n/una Beach is popularly known as the freak capital of the world, for its claimed
popularity of #rance Parties and the Hippies who tried to synthesi+e the spiritual traditions
of the East and the art, ideas and the music of the est" #he area was discovered by a
group of travelers, sometime in the late $(.%s to mid1$(-%s, including Eight 5inger Eddie"
!ince then a small international psychedelic scene began to meet there to party during the
dry season" =s the calm water of the =rabian sea fondles the *ndian shore, =n/una comes
alive with its ever1famous full1moon pungent parties and the ednesday flea market to
take one on to a trance trip"
T"e main atta&tions o% An9#na 'ea&"
Al-#.#e.#e Mansion
#he magnificent =lbu'uer'ue Mansion built in $(8% Aflanked by octagonal towers and an attractive Mangalore tile1roofB"
Mas&aen"as Mansion
ith riches and classic ;balcoes; AbalconiesB at =n/una stands the monumental Mascarenhas Mansion" #he ,1shaped seat
along the length of the porch is of e3pensive wood" *t has some of the finest stained glass floral etchings
Wednesda( Flea Ma!et
Every ednesday, at around $$ a"m", =n/una breaks into a flood of colours" Huge number of tourists vehicles start raising
clouds of dust in its surroundings" hatever one needs, from a used paperback to a haircut, one would find it here" #he
flea market is a heaven for hardcore shoppers and good bargainers, to bid on wonderful blends of #ibetan, 2ashmiri and
0u/arati trinkets and handicrafts, European snacks, cassettes of a noisy brand of music called ;0oa #rance;, artificial
ornaments carvings and #1shirts"
T"e A&id )o#se Pat(
=n/una is also known for its full1moon acid parties" Held for and by young tourists, these parties have attracted thousands
of tourists" #he trance party with fun & frolic goes all night besides the fire"
C"apoa Fot
4hapora 5ort lies in the vicinity of the =n/una" #he 5ort gives a splendid view of the nearby =n/una and @agator beaches"
:nce, it was a domain of the Muslim rulers before the Portuguese anne3ed it"
'a+a 'ea&"
Lo&ation
4alangute and Baga lie on the shores of the =rabian !ea of North 0oa in *ndia" *t is
encircled by =rpora1Nagoa, !aligao and 4andolim, in the Barde+ taluka, and is /ust $.
km from Pana/im, the capital of the state of 0oa"
Climate
0oa has a consistent climate through the year with only meager fluctuations in the
temperature" 6ecember and ?anuary might re'uire light woolens" =pril and May are
warm" #he period from ?une to :ctober brings heavy rain, almost up to D8% cm" #he temperature during summers ranges
from 8>Q4 to D8"&Q4 and during winters, from 8$"DQ4 to D8"8Q4"
T"e 'ea&"
Baga is a small but perfect beach located between its two more famous cousins, 4olva on one side and 4alangute on the
other" *t is a far better place to en/oy some restful moments if you donRt like the hustle and bustle of 4olva or 4alangute"
*t is a fishing beach with international touriststs marinating in the sun and domestic visitors paddling" #he fact is that the
sand here is neither white nor gold but brown" #here is the grove of palms that comes fairly close to the waterRs edge" #he
Baga <iver flows down one side of it offering a pleasant diversion for children and those who love the water but canRt risk
the rip currents that swirl round the mouth"
T"e main Atta&tions o% 'a+a 'ea&" 3
'a+a00E:&#sions
Medi&inal Spin+s
#he narrow road leading past the Bom @iagem 4onvent along the cashew1covered foothills, leads to the springs at
Mottant" #his is an ideal spot for picnics and bathing, as the water of the spring is believed to be medicinal"
'a+a Reteat )o#se
:verlooking the village and the =rabian !ea, at the Baga hilltop is the Baga <etreat House dedicated to !t 5rancis 7avier"
*t was known as the 4asa de <etiros"
Ot"e A&ti$ities
Wate Spots
Parasailing, water skiing and wind surfing at the beach starts in the afternoon when the wind is blowing /ust in the right
direction and it goes on till sunset"
Co&odile And Dolp"in Spottin+ To#s
Backwater crocodile and dolphin spotting down the Mandovi <iver to the Fuari <iver is a
favourite pastime for the tourists" #he banks of these rivers are thickly forested with
mangrove trees" 4rocodiles inhabit the wetland in this area" 6olphin can be spotted at the
open sea at the mouth of the Mandovi <iver"
'ena#lim 'ea&"
Lo&ation
=t the end of the 4olva beach, Benaulim is a 'uiet and pleasant beach" Benaulim lies >% km away from Pana/i, the capital
of the *ndian state 0oa"
Climate
0oa has a consistent climate through the year with /ust meager fluctuations in the temperature" 6ecember and ?anuary
might re'uire light woolens" =pril and May are warm" #he period from ?une to :ctober brings heavy rain, almost up to >%%
cm" #he temperature during the summers ranges from 8>Q4 to D8"&Q4 and during the winters it ranges from 8$"DQ4 to
D8"8Q4"
T"e 'ea&"
=ccording to Hindu mythology, Benaulim is the place where the arrow of ,ord Parsurama landed when he created the state
of 0oa" 2nown in !anskrit as Banali, it was changed to Benaulim by the Portuguese" #he main attractions on this beach
are the dolphin cruises" #he beach gets fairly crowded in the evenings and on weekends with local visitors" Benaulim is
about 8 km away from 4olva and is more peaceful and serene than 4olva" #he best thing about Benaulim is that it is still
rather undiscovered by domestic tourists even though it is a fishing beach"
T"e Main Atta&tions o% 'ena#lim 'ea&"
Nossa Sen"oa de Me&es 4O# Lad( o% Me&(5 C"#&"
#he church is famous for its annual religious event5ama of Menino ?esuse A4hild ?esusBsince the $&th century" #he
predominantly 4atholic community celebrates it on the third Monday of :ctober every
year" *t is one of 0oaRs most popular feasts and a big fair is held on the occasion"
T"e '#ll Fi+"t
5rom early :ctober to late May, from > pm onwards, one can see the bull fights at
Benaulim" :n the beat of taped 2onkani music, the bullfights are usually held in an old
rice field with no fences or barricades /ust outside a village"
T"e C"#&" o% St /o"n
#he 4hurch of !t ?ohn the Baptist is situated on a hill beyond the village and worth a
visit" #he church is a wonderful e3ample of 0oan 4hristian architecture"
'o+malo 'ea&"
Lo&ation
@asco da 0ama which is )km from Bogmalo" 0oa Bogmalo beach is also situated very close to the airport, the beach is
about $) km from 6abolim =irport
Climate
0oa has an e'uable climate with little variation in the average minimum and ma3imum temperatures" 6uring the summer
A=pril to ?uneB the minimum temperature is 8-Q4 and the ma3imum is D>Q4" #he monsoon A?uly to :ctoberB brings
temperatures down marginally to 8>Q4 and the ma3imum temperature down to D$Q4" *n winter from November to March
the minimum is 8$Q4, while the ma3imum is D8Q4"
T"e 'ea&"
Bogmalo beach is broad, flat and open" *t is among the least heavily used beaches" 4luster of small beach shack
restaurants and occasional fishing villages, scattered under the coconut palm gives Bogmalo a uni'ue look" *nitially
Bogmalo beach in 0oa was a very 'uiet fishing village until tourists started pouring in and tourism started infecting this
small *ndian state of 0oa" Enlike other beaches of 0oa, Bogmalo beach in 0oa is clean and not very crowded" =nd if you
are in urge of swimming, you can definitely do that, as the beach is safe for swimming" =fter the swim, you can try out
those numerous eating /oints offering delicious 0oan cuisine"
#his beach in 0oa is very pleasant and the air is very tran'uil" #he Bogmalo beach resort is an appropriate place to stay
during a tourist;s beach holiday to Bogmalo but it may come as e3pensive to many" 4heap hotels or guesthouses are also
available for the people who come here in shoestring budget"
Ot"e A&ti$ities
Fis"in+ 3 9ou can try your hand at fishing"
S*immin+ 3 #he water is safe for swimming at Bogmalo beach in 0oa"
#his 0oa beach has a complete array of eating /oints and restaurants, that offer delicious
0oan food accompanied by the ever1famous 0oan drink 5eni"
Col$a 'ea&"
Lo&ation
4olva is a small village in south 0oa on the shores of the =rabian !ea" *t lies D( km away from Pana/i, capital of the
*ndian state of 0oa"
Climate
0oa has a consistent climate through the year with /ust meager fluctuations in the temperature" 6ecember and ?anuary
might re'uire light woolens" =pril and May are warm" #he period from ?une to :ctober brings heavy rain, almost up to >%%
cm" #he temperature during the summers ranges from 8>Q4 to D8"&Q4 and during the winters it ranges from 8$"DQ4 to
D8"8Q4"
T"e 'ea&"
ith 8% km of virgin white sands, palm fringed, and sun drenched beaches, 4olva is the most loved beach for 0oans"
4olva beach is pride of !alcette and the only rival to 4alangute by its scenic splendour" #he natural & uni'ue blend of
sand, sea and sky is harmonious and enchanting" 4olva is given the title of ;Lueen of Beaches in *ndia;, as this beach has
no e'ual in *ndia" *t;s like a paradise, with >% 2m of unstopped white sand fringed with coconut palms along the whole of
its length and a warm, calm sea" #he silver1gray, powder1fine sand of the beach has been the inspiration for many folk
tales and songs"
T"e Main Atta&tion o% Col$a 'ea&"
Nossa Sen"oa de Me&es 4O# Lad( o% Me&(5 C"#&"
#he church is famous for its annual religious event15ama of Menino ?esuse A4hild ?esusB1since the $&th century" #he
predominantly 4atholic community celebrates it on the third Monday of :ctober every year" *t is one of 0oaRs most popular
feasts and a big fair is held on this occasion"
On t"e 'ea&"
#he seen on the beach is colourful, with tourists both 1 *ndian and foreigners, as well as locals 1can be seen strolling in
colourful dresses" Many of them can be seen having a sunbath on the golden sands" #he novelty stalls and the drink
stands on the golden sands under the moonlight makes the evening on the 4olva Beach simply romantic"
Col$a 0 E:&#sions
=bout 8 km away from 4olva is the Benaulim, which is more peaceful and serene than 4olva"
#he 4hurch of !t ?ohn the Baptist is situated on a hill beyond the village Benaulim and worth a visit"
Candolim 'ea&"
Lo&ation
4andolim is a beach that is very much in North 0oa" #his is part of a D% km stretch of
beach coastline along the west coast of 0oa by the =rabian sea" Begins at 5ort =guada
continues as !in'uerim Beach, then as 4andolim beach and merges into 4alangute Beach
and then to Baga Beach and then =n/una Beach and then to @agator Beach finally ending
at 4hapora Beach and 5ort"
Climate
0oa has an e'uable climate with little variation in the average minimum and ma3imum
temperatures" 6uring the summer A=pril to ?uneB the minimum temperature is 8-Q4 and
the ma3imum is D>Q4" #he monsoon A?uly to :ctoberB brings temperatures down marginally to 8>Q4 and the ma3imum
temperature down to D$Q4" *n winter from November to March the minimum is 8$Q4, while the ma3imum is D8Q4"
T"e 'ea&"
4andolim Beach is a part of a long stretch of beach coastline along the =rabian !ea that begins at 5ort =guada and ends
at 4hapora Beach" 4andolim beach is less crowded and 'uite peaceful, as compared to =n/una or 4alangute" #hough you
will find tourists strolling by the shore of the 4andolim beach, you can still find some 'uiet and rela3ing places for
yourself" 4andolim is the best beach if you want solitude from the hustle and bustle of =guada though not e3pecting too
much of facilities" #here is good food and long and straight beach backed by scrub1covered dunes with little shelter,
popular with package tourists" 4andolim is very 'uite, and this is due to the fact that there arenRt resorts all around the
beach"
4andolim is also the birth place of =bbe 5aria" =bbe 5aria is considered to be one of the 0reat 0oan 5reedom 5ighters and
also the 5ather of Hypnotism"
T"e main Atta&tion o% Candolim 'ea&"
#he most basic attraction is =guda 5ort & 4alangute Beach"
Fot A+#ada 3
5ort =guada was built in the year $-$8 by the Portuguese" #his is a famous 5ort in 0oa and is worth visiting" :n the
Northern side of this 5ort there are two beaches" :ne of these is 4andolim and the other being 4alangute"
Ot"e Atta&tions
Fis"in+ 3 *f you want to try your hand at fishing, you are welcome to do so too"
;o+a & Meditation 3 !ome hotels at 4andolim beaches offer yoga and meditation session for the tourists in 0oa"
Wate Spots 3 0oa 4andolim beach offers various water1sports activities1right from parasailing to water1skiing and
more" #here are special guides also who can help you through these activities"
'ea&" E:&#sion 3 0oa 4andolim beach also arranges special beach e3cursions wherein a tourist is taken right to the
middle of the sea from where he can capture some memorable sunsets"
Dona Pa#la 'ea&"
Lo&ation
!even kilometers west of the *ndian state of 0oaRs capital Pana/i, 6ona Paula Beach is
nestled on the southern side of the rocky hammer1shaped headlands that divide the Fuari
and Mandovi estuaries"
Climate
#he climate is e'uable and moist throughout the year" hile it is pleasant and temperate
from :ctober to May it is rainy from ?une to !eptember" #emperature variations
throughout the year are mild" May is the warmest month with a temperature of around
D%Q4 and ?anuary is coolest with a mean daily temperature of 8.Q4" 6ue to its pro3imity
of the sea, the territory is generally humid and even during the summer months humidity
is generally above -% percent"
T"e 'ea&"
Named after the 6ona Paula de Men+es, daughter of a viceroy Ain colonial *ndiaB, the 6ona Paula beach offers an
opportunity to the tourists to have a sunbath and buy cheap seaside goods from local vendors" 6ona Paula de Men+es
threw herself off the cliff, when refused permission to marry a local fisherman, 0aspar 6ias" *t is said that 6ona Paula is
entombed in the 4abo 4hapel of the <a/ Bhawan and is supposed to be seen emerging from the moonlit waves wearing
only a pearl necklace" ith the romance and myth attached to it tourists throng the 6ona Paula Beach not only in search
of the deceased beloved, but also to indulge & en/oy in water sports on the clean waters" Providing a good view of the
Mormugao harbor, the 6ona Paula beach is fringed by palm trees and casuarina groves" #he pro3imity of the beach to the
capital city makes it a popular tourist sight"
T"e Main Atta&tions o% Dona Pa#la
Wate Spots
#he most important attraction of this beach is the water sport facilities available here" #he 6ona Paula !ports 4lub offers
water1scooter, cycle, and motorboat rides" :ther water sports include windsurfing, parasailing, water1skiing, toboggan ski1
biscuit, skibob, sports fishing, snorkeling, harpoon fishing, kayaking, and yachting"
National O&eano+ap"( Instit#te
Established in the $(-%s, the National :ceanography *nstitute delves not only upon marine biology, but incorporates
almost all the ma/or branches of coastal and marine oceanography" #he ma/or attraction of the institute is its Marine
Biology Museum and #a3onomy <eference 4enter"
Ca-o Ra9 Ni*as
#he 4abo <a/ Niwas Athe 0overnorRs HouseB is half a kilometer away from the National :ceanography *nstitute" *t houses
the tomb of 6ona Paula de Men+es in the 4abo 4hapel" #he <a/ Bhawan provides an e3cellent view of the nearby coastline
and the =guada 5ort"
E:&#sion at Dona Pa#la
#he main attractions near 6ona Paula Beach are <eis Magos 4hurch and the !alim =li Bird !anctuary"
Reis Ma+os C"#&"
=ppro3imately $% km from the beach is one of the oldest churches built in 0oa, the <eis Magos 4hurch" *t is dedicated to
the three Magi Athe wise men of the EastB0aspar, Melchior, and Baltha+ar who, according to a legend, were guided by a
star to Bethlehem to greet the newborn ?esus" #his church was once the residence of all dignitaries and a mission center
of the 5ranciscan order"
Salim Ali 'id San&t#a(
#he !alim =li Bird !anctuary is situated on the western tip of the island of 4horo, along the Mandovi <iver, about ( km
from 6ona Paula Beach" !pread over 8 s' km, this sanctuary is a mangrove forest" ,ocal and migratory birds are found
here all through the year"
Miama 'ea&"
Lo&ation
Miramar Beach is the nearest beach from the capital of the 0oa, Pana/i" #he beach is /ust
D km from Pana/i in the north of the state and a km away from 6ona Paula" *t lies
ad/oining the estuary of the river Mandovi as it opens into the =rabian sea"
Climate
#he climate is e'uable and moist throughout the year" hile it is pleasant and temperate
from :ctober to May it is rainy from ?une to !eptember" #emperature variations
throughout the year are mild" May is the warmest month with a temperature of around
D%Q4 and ?anuary is coolest with a mean daily temperature of 8.Q4" 6ue to its pro3imity of the sea, the territory is
generally humid and even during the summer months humidity is generally above -% percent"
T"e 'ea&"
Miramar Beach also known as 0aspar 6ias is a lovely golden beach of soft sand griddled with palm trees facing the blue
=rabian !ea, where <iver Mandovi meets the =rabian !ea and a thick grove of shady palms form a dense canopy over the
area" #he word ;Miramar; in Portuguese stands for viewing the sea" :n account of its good location, the Miramar Beach of
0oa is ideal for evening walks" #he tourists can spend a nice time in the Palm shaded area that is 'uite captivating for the
tourists visiting the beach"
#he 8 km long coast boasts of fine, soft silvery sand bed that sparkle in the moonlight" 5rom here one can have a
panoramic view of the =guada fort /ust across the Mandovi <iver" *t also offers a captivating view of the well1preserved
Portuguese fort across the river, known as =guada 5ort" Not much crowded, it offers peaceful surroundings and the much1
desired solitude for those who want few moments of life away from the cra+y crowd of the city"
T"e Main Atta&tion o% Miama 'ea&"
#he importance of these coastal wintering grounds has been universally acknowledged all over the world" =t least three1
fourths A.%% plus speciesB of migratory birds incorporate the coastline or the coastal plain into their migration routes" #he
migratory birds, like Plovers and 0ulls return to Miramar beach each winter, as it gives them a brief respite from the harsh
winter back home" Here they find food in plenty in the form of a'uatic invertebrates, seeds and insects"
SOME MORE INFO ON T)E 'EAC)ES WE DECIDED TO 8ISIT
Agonda Beach in Goa
The Agonda beach is situated towards the north of Goa. It lies a bit secluded from the mainland and thus is a bit
difficult to reach. There are no local buses that ply here. So one can always take a
cab or hire a bike and reach here. The Agonda beach is a 3-kilometer long beach,
which is no less than paradise. It is not much freuented by tourists, which gi!es it a
touch of solitude. If you are looking for uninterrupted peace and tranuility amongst
the calm wa!es and swaying coconut trees, the Agonda beach is the place for you.
A little away from the beach is the fort of "abo de #ama. Though in ruins, it creates
an element of mysticism and drama around the beach. This fort is also not much
freuented but people make it a point to !isit this fort to appreciate its beauty and
architecture. It is said that $ord #ama %of the &indu epic #amayana', stayed here
with his wife Sita, during his () year old e*ile.
The Agonda beach is a beautiful stretch of land, which is flanked by the ocean on one side and the small hills on the
other side. If you are looking forward to some ad!enture, hire a tent and spend the night camping on the beach,
under the starry skies, listening to the crashing of the wa!es against the shore.
Anjuna Beach
An+una ,each is one the most popular beaches of Goa which is situated - kilometers west of .apusa and (-
kilometers from the capital city, /ana+i. The !illage of An+una is located in north Goa, and is a small area, which is
nestled between the Arabian Sea and a small hillock. It o!erlooks the sea and thus gi!es a splendid look of the
shoreline. The An+una ,each is known for its soft white sands and shoreline dotted
with e*otic palm trees. Its natural beauty attracts thousands of tourists from all o!er
the world.
Since the An+una beach has a rocky promontory, the ocean currents are not !ery
strong and it offers the perfect locale for bathing and playing in the water. Tourists
look forward to en+oying the water along with getting tanned in the sun. Sun
bathing is a !ery popular acti!ity on the beach. An+una is famous for its flea market
which one can find towards the north where small cafes, bars and ethnic Indian
handicrafts stalls are lined. 0ne can find +ust about e!erything here. The electric
items that are kept on sale here are particularly famed. The flea market is held on 1ednesdays e!ery week and if
you are talented at bargaining, you can get away with good stuff at minimal prices. The main tourist attractions
nearby are the Albuuerue mansion and the "hapora fort.
An+una is also famous for its trance parties that take place on the shore. The music played is usually loud
psychedelic trance, which transports one to another world literally. These parties usually take place on full moon
nights as it adds to the magic of trance music. Getting to An+una ,each is not difficult as all forms of transport are
a!ailable from the ma+or cities.
Arambol Beach Goa
The Arambol beach is an incessant and eye-catching wa!y stretch of sand, still
untouched by humans in contrast to other beaches. The beach is usually uiet e*cept
on Sundays, when a huge swarm of local resident get together here for holidaying.
The best part about this beach is that it is secluded which makes it a !ery peaceful and
serene locale. There is a rela*ed en!ironment and a person can totally unwind and
rela* on this long stretch of tranuil Arambol beach.
Another feature of this beach is the !illage of Arambol nearby. It is located on the shore and the people of this
!illage are absolutely adorable. They are !ery friendly people and try to help you in e!ery possible manner in case
you approach them. 2ou can get the feel of the typical Goan culture from this !illage. The !illage pro!ides a scenic
backdrop to the beach. Though tourists often !isit the beach, it looks as though it is untouched by time. That makes
it e!en more appealing and serene and is considered as the ideal get away for rela*ing and getting charged up.
The Arambol beach offers a well-made running track for those who want to e*plore the beach while +ogging. Apart
from that, there are many fresh water springs and sulphur pits if someone wants to swim but is apprehensi!e about
the ocean currents.
Calangute Beach in Goa
$ocated (3 kilometers from /ana+i, "alangute beach is popularly known as the 45ueen of all Goan beaches4. This
beach was originally known by the name 4kolli gutti4, which means 4land of
fishermen4. 6ue to the /ortugal rule, the name got distorted and came to what it is
presently known as. The place around sthe "olangute beach is abundant in
coconut trees, which add serenity to the scenic surroundings.
The "olangute beach is lined with local shacks, which ser!e ama7ing food and
drinks. It is an ideal place to check out the local cuisines. "ombined with chilled
beer, music and lo!ely backdrop of the beach, it is the ultimate place to unwind
and rela*. To recharge your energy le!els, indulge in the !arious water sports that
are offered at the beach. There are many music concerts held there e!ery now and then and is a fa!orite among
music and art lo!ers. There is also an art gallery called 8erkar Art Gallery located on the beach, which attracts all
art lo!ers who look for a soul-searching e*perience.
It is said that the hippies were the first ones to find this beautiful land. As they spread the word among fellow
hippies, the "olangute beach attracted more and more people and today is one of the busiest beaches in Goa
thronging with locals and tourists. The beach has a le!eled shoreline and not rocky at all. This makes it ideal for
indulging in daring ad!enture sports and di!ing.
Colva Beach in Goa
The li!ely and bubbly mo!ements of the sea wa!es make the sea look like it is
dreamily en+oying the tickling !ibrations spread by the wa!es riding o!er it. This is
how you can describe the sea at "ol!a beach. 2ou ha!e to go to the "ol!a beach to
e*perience the sheer laidback waters and rela*ed en!iron. To make your !isit more
interesting, +ust gather your compilation of fa!orite books and head for Goa9s "ol!a
beach. 2ou can spend the day rela*ing on the shore, reading the books with +ust the
sighs of the sea to perturb you.
The "ol!a ,each skillfully manages to keep its serene and peaceful landscape
intact. The "ol!a beach in Goa has gained popularity recently. "ol!a beach is one
of those beaches in this small Indian state of Goa that is de!eloping at a !ery rapid pace with the ad!ent of many
hotels and resorts in the nearby areas. There are a number of shacks lined up along the "ol!a beach that offer you
delicious Goan cuisine along with inno!ati!e cocktails. 2ou can rela* in one of those shacks and sa!or the mouth-
watering food that is ser!ed while looking at the cosmic sea in front of you.
The ,enaulim ,each is located appro*imately : kilometers away from "ol!a beach. This beach is e!en more calm
and tranuil than the "ol!a beach. The ,enaulim ,each pro!ides a prospect to see the lo!ely nature in its
emotionally enriching form, with !irtually no disturbance from the outside world. 1hile wondering around, one can
spot age-old /ortuguese homes still standing on the shore.
Dona Paula Beach
The 6ona /aula beach is a popular tourist attraction in Goa. It has been the shooting locale of many Indian mo!ies
and offers a !ariety of water sports. The beach has a mysterious past. It is said that the spirit of 6ona /aula de
.en7es, daughter of a !iceroy %in colonial India' haunts the beach. The 6ona /aula beach has been named after her.
It is said that she threw herself off the cliff when she was refused permission to
marry a local fisherman, Gaspar 6ias. $ocals say that she is sometimes seen
emerging from the wa!es on a moon lit night.
.ost tourists are attracted by this story and come here to feel the romantic
mysticism of the place. Another ma+or attraction is the !ast !ariety of water sports
this beach has to offer. 0ne can try out di!ing, skiing, surfing, sailing, etc here at
the 6ona /aula beach. ;or the not so daring, there is always the option of floating,
light swimming and sun bathing on the shores. The beach has many small shacks
and street markets which sell handicrafts and Indian stuff. 2ou can also buy good beachwear at minimal prices if
you can bargain.
Another tourist attraction near the beach is 6r. Salim Ali ,ird Sanctuary. It is a small piece of land, which homes
many species of e*otic flora and fauna. Getting to 6ona /aula beach is pretty easy as it is well connected by roads.
2ou can get in a cab or hire a bike to reach here and e*plore the ad!enturous and romantic 6ona /aula beach.
Miramar Beach in Goa
0n the way to the 6ona /aula beach, (-kilometer ahead of the con!ergence of the
Arabian Sea and the .ando!i #i!er, lies the .iramar beach of Goa. The beach is
+ust 3 kilometers from /ana+i, the capital of Goa. The .iramar beach is also
popularly known as the Gaspar 6ias beach.
The .iramar beach e*pands up to : kilometers and is an ideal beach for e!ening
walks. Gi!en its fine location, one can catch a charming !iew of the sea. The
.iramar beach is pretty popular among tourists and it also offers accommodation
near the shore. There are many good hotels in the !icinity that offer good
accommodation with all modern facilities along with the magnificent !iew of the sea.
0ne can also catch a splendid !iew of the Aguada ;ort, which lies +ust across the .ando!i #i!er. The .iramar
beach has fine sil!ery sands, which makes it ideal for taking long walks and soaking up the sun. Tourists can find
all facilities here, from shopping to en+oying themsel!es to trying out local cuisines at the beach shacks.
Palolem Beach in Goa
Situated in the southern part of Goa, the /alolem beach is the most famous and well known in the southern part of
the state of Goa. It is nearest if you dro!e from the state of 8arnataka, which flanks
Goa from the south. The beach is +ust 3 kilometers from the 8onkan railway station
and can be reached from +ust about anywhere in Goa.
The /alolem beach is the most photogenic beach with its crescent shaped shoreline
and white sand. The picturesue blue water lapping on the white sand of the shore,
which is dotted by coconut trees here and there, makes it the perfect beach to rela*
and take it easy. 6espite being freuently !isited by tourists, the /alolem beach
remains clean and looks untouched. A ma+or attraction at the beach is the ferry
ser!ice, which takes tourists on a ride into the ocean to spot 6olphins. Tourists disco!ered the /alolem beach long
back. Today the beach has some seaside shacks that offer local seafood and snacks, small sou!enirs and other stuff
like beachwear, curios etc.
The /alolem beach offers accommodation for tourists in beautiful, e*uisite beach huts, which ha!e all modern
amenities. The beach is usually crowded on weekends< so if you are looking forward to unwind and rela*, head for
the beach on weekdays. 0ne can also hire a ferry or a boat and persuade the fishermen to take you to the small
islands located on the northern part of the beach.
Vagator Beach in Goa
Situated at a distance of = kilometers from .apusa and :: kilometers from /ana+i, lies the >agator beach. 1ith
black la!a rocks and golden sands, lined with coconut trees, the >agator beach is a
tourists delight. It is mainly a fishing !illage so fishermen often freuent the beach.
The famous "hapora fort pro!ides the ideal background for the beach.
1hile on the >agator beach, you can watch the ocean change its color from
auamarine blue to a tinge of green. To truly en+oy your !isit to the beach, take a
stroll on the shore bare feet and let the gentle wa!es lap at your feet. If you ha!e the
lu*ury of time, sit with the locals and listen to the numerous stories and local
legends that ha!e been talked about o!er the ages in these parts. They are
interesting and you get to taste home cooked food too as the !illagers are !ery warm people who treat guests as
kindly as they can.
The ?@@-year-old /ortuguese ;ort, known as the "hapora fort is also an ideal getaway for some stolen moments
with oneself. Spend some time in the historical monument and watch the sun go down into the ocean. 2our !isit to
the >agator beach will be worth itA