Places To See In Goa
Take in the sites and sounds of Goa. There is a lot to enjoy for all age groups from beaches, to churches and
to adventure sports Goa has it all.
Centuries of Portuguese rule and of the other dynasties have given Goa a very unique blend of the East and the
West. This is reflected in its buildings, their architecture etc. For the adventure enthusiasts, Goa has
abundant beaches to enjoy.
Beaches
The sun, the sand and the surf are probably the first things, which come to mind when we think about Goa. In
its true tradition Goa has a lot of beaches which welcome tourists round the year.
Goa is dotted with beaches and resorts along the 105 kms stretch of the Konkan coast.
The prominent beaches that one can visit in North Goa include the Sinquerim, Candolim, Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Vagator, Morjim and Arambol.
The south side of the beaches begins from Margao, the second most important city in Goa. Some of the
breathtaking beaches on this side of Goa include Velsao, Majorda, Betalbatim, Colva, Benaulim, Varca,
Cavelossim, Mobor and Betul. All these beaches are interconnected.
Heritage Sites - Forts
With a network of rivers flowing through the state and the sea on its west, forts in Goa assumed a great
significance. A symbol of military prowess in the Portuguese time, today they are a mute testimony to the
bygone era.
Ruins of the St. Augustine's Tower
Located on Holy Hill in Old Goa, today, the only surviving remnant of this once impressive Church is a 46-metre
tower. The Church when intact was one of the biggest in Goa.
Aguada Fort
This is one of the largest and the best-preserved citadel in Goa. Located 18-km from Panaji in Old Goa, the
fort acted as a bastion to control entry into the river Mandovi and to protect Old Goa from enemy attacks.
Several springs within the fort provided water supply to the ships that were harbored there and hence its name
from Agua or water in Portuguese. One of the distinct features of this monument is a 13-metre high lighthouse.
Today, the fort houses the Central Jail.
The Gate of the Palace of Adil Shah
The Palace of Adil Shah was one of the most prominent features of Old Goa with lofty staircases. Later, the
Portuguese Governors used the palace as their residence. Today, the gate is the only imposing structure that
remains of this monument.
Chapora Fort
This red-laterite bastion built by the Portuguese is in ruins today. The heads of two tunnels that was used a
supply route for providing besieged defenders and Muslim tombstones on the southern side are probably the only
remnants of this once impressive fort.
Religious Places - Churches
An indelible impression of Portuguese influence can be seen in Goa 's famous churches. Spread of Christianity
and controlling the spice route were the main reasons for Vasco da Gama's mission to India. Some of the world
famous churches of Goa include :
The Basilica of Bom Jesus
A fine example of Jesuit architecture, this church has emerged as one of the landmarks in the history of
Christianity. It is located in Old Goa, 10 kms east of Panaji. The church opens everyday from 9 am - 12:30 pm
and then again from 3 pm - 6:30 pm. Entombed within this world famous church is the body of St. Francis Xavier. The remains of the saint are brought out every few years for public display.
Our Lady Of The Immaculate Conception Church
Located South of the Secretariat, this was one of the first churches to be built in Goa. The Portuguese Baroque
style of architecture is reflected in its tall twin towers. The backdrop of the main altar inside the church is
impressive.
Se Cathedral
Built between 1562-1619, it is one of the largest churches in Old Goa and the largest in Asia with a barrel
vaulted ceiling. One of the features of this church is a tower, which houses a huge bell called the Golden Bell.
Temples
One of the interesting features of Goan temples is the lamp tower or the Deepa Stambha. This is regarded as a
Maratha influence. On festive days these towers are illuminated. Another distinctive feature of a traditional
Goan temple is the Dome that covers the main shrine instead of the traditional Shikara. This is the influence
of Mughal architecture.
Sri Mahadev Tambdi Surla Temple
This sacred shrine in West Goa is the state's only reminder of the pre-Portuguese temple architecture. This 12th century temple boasts of some fine relief's on the 'Shikhara' (spire) depicting a number of Gods and
Goddesses.
Sri Mangesh Temple
Located at Mardol, this is a revered shrine of Lord Shiva. It has the most famous lamp tower in Goa.
Mosques
Safa Masjid
Located at Ponda, this is among the biggest and the oldest mosque in Goa. It is the last remaining one of the
26 mosques that were built by Ibrahim Adil Shah of Bijapur in Ponda Taluka.
Museums
State Archaeology Museum
Located at the outskirts of Panaji, the museum has seven galleries, a collection of 8000 objects and 645
objects including stone sculptures, wooden objects, paintings, manuscripts, numismatic collections etc.
Naval Aviation Museum
Located just 6 kms from the port city of Vasco-da-Gama is India's only Naval Aviation Museum. The museum is
open all days from 10 am - 5 pm.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
The rugged terrains of the Western Ghats have some varied flora and fauna. The widest belt of forests is in Goa
and Karnataka. The coastal terrains on the other side provide a tropical climate backdrop, ideal for
plantations. Goa boasts of four Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Named after India's noted ornithologist, this sanctuary is located on the island of Chorao. Mangrove swamps dot the sanctuary. A huge variety of coastal birds visit the sanctuary every year, Apart from the birds one can also spot Flying Foxes, Jackals and Crocodiles.
For Adventure enthusiasts you can go bungee jumping at Anjuna or go clam hunting at Betul. If you are in a mood
for angling, then Agonda is a great place. For a quieter trip you can go crocodile watching or else dolphin
watching. Windsurfing, Water skiing is great options if you are a water sports enthusiast. To be one with nature opt for trekking. There are various picturesque trekking paths that start from Molem.
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Tourist Information - Goa
History of Goa
Getting Around Goa
Places To See In Goa
Shopping In Goa
Where To Eat In Goa
Where To Stay In Goa
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Travel Tips For Tourists In Goa
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