The Beach Capital of India, Goa situated between the borders of Maharastra and Karnataka derives its name from the Konkani word ’Goyan’, meaning a patch of tall grass. It is better known to the world at large as the former Portuguese enclave on the Indian soil. It is lively and modern, with many western style entertainments and as a matter of fact the place is for relaxation and experience the idyllic peace. Vasco-da-Gama is Goa’s main Sea Port and Transport Hub.
ATTRACTIONS IN & AROUND
AGONDA BEACH
37 Kms from Margao, this is a small, picturesque & secluded beach very popular with visitors wanting peace and solitude. It’s long and lonely, fringed with palms and casuarinas and dominated by a large hill to the south. The best way to reach this beach is by a scooter or motors bike as it is a bit far.
AGUADA BEACH
The Aguada Bay (parts of which are known as Caranzalem Bay and Sinquerim Bay) is formed by two promontories: Cabo and Aguada. Aguada beach is almost synonymous with the top-notch Fort Aguadahotel Complex.
ANJUNA BEACH
About 18 kms. from Panaji is this sandy beach, more popular during the seventies & eighties. The Wednesday flea market is huge and very popular.
ARAMBOL BEACH
At a distance of 50 Kms from Panjim, this is a unique beach in the north, both rocky & sandy but much sought after for its uncluttered solitude. A mudbath with the mud that lines the bottom of this pool, is said to be very good for the skin; and there’s a hot spring nearby.
BAGA BEACH
Baga, 10 kms. west of Mapusa, is basically an extension of Calangute beach with clean white sand. The N end of Baga is best. An attractive estuary can be waded at the low tide, the walk round the headland leading to Anjuna beach. Bicycles can be hired at many places in Calangute and Baga at a very nominal cost.
BENAULIM BEACH
2 Kms. further ahead from Colva is Benaulim. This is the spot where the shaft of Parasurama fell to earth, known in Sanskrit as Banali and later corrupted by the Portuguese to Benaulim.
BOGMALO BEACH
Close to the port city of Vasco Bogmalo, another ideal beach clean and not too crowded, the water reasonably safe for swimming, and plenty of places to eat, drink and shop at. The Bogmalo Oberoi hotel is situated on this beach.
CALANGUTE BEACH
Calangute derives its name from the local vernacular word—‘Koli-gutti’, meaning land of fishermen. It is the most popular holiday resort in Goa popularly known as the queen of Goan beaches. The rainbow hued canvas of Calangute has welcomed everyone.
CANDOLIM BEACH
Candolim Beach is one of most frequented and popular beach of Northern Goa. The beach starts at the footsteps of the highly acclaimed Fort Aguada, built by the Portuguese. This beach is quite peaceful than other beaches of Goa.
COLVA BEACH
Located in south Goa 6 Kms from Margao, this beach is the pride of the state and second only to Calangute in popularity. This is Goa’s longest beach with 20 km of virgin white sands, palm fringed and sun drenched. Silver carpets of bangdde (mackerels) can be viewed shimmering on the golden sands for drying, while taking a stroll on the Beach.
DONA PAULA BEACH
This place is called the Lovers Paradise, named after Dona Paula de Menezes. Water sport facilities are the key attraction of this beach. It offers an opportunity to the tourists to have a sunbath and buy cheap seaside goods from local vendors.
MAJORDA BEACH
Majorda is located at a distance of 18 kms. from Dabolim Airport. This is the place where the Goans were first trained in the delicate art of baking European breads and the Majordans are still Goa’s best bakers.
OLD GOA
Old Goa about 9 kms. east of Panaji, was once the capital of the eastern Portuguese Empire and is now a fascinating small village surrounded by huge convents and churches dedicated to the zeal of Christianity, including the Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assisi and the famous Basilica of Bom Jesus.
PALOLEM BEACH
It’s a beach of white sand facing a blue bay between two headlands. Palolem is about 3 kms. away from Canacona Railway Junction, now on the Konkan Railway.
VAGATOR BEACH
Vagator is an attractive little bay between rocky headlands with a small series of small beaches particularly attractive in the early morning, though the sea is not always safe for swimming. Chapora Fort is on a hill at the end, fairly well preserved. Chapora is a fishing village.