Located on the west coast of India, Goa is blessed with a wide array of attractions, like palm fringed beaches, miles long stretches of golden sand along the crystal-clear azure waters of the Arabian sea, stunning waterfalls, lush green countryside, a spectacular mosaic of cultural heritage, beautiful churches, temples, historical forts, caves and monuments and a seamless blend of the east and west.
While there are certainly a wide array of other attractions in Goa, the primary reason so many visitors are attracted to this western state of India each year is those beautiful beaches which are all spectacular. While Agonda, Anjuna, Arambo, Baga, Calangute, Colva, Dona Paula, Miramar, Palolem and Vagator are famous beaches in Goa,
Forts of Goa offer evocative glimpses of the past. Aguada Fort and Tirakol Fort, 18 Km and 42 Km from the Goan capital of Panaji, are some of these forts. Located in the vicinity of Vagator Beach, the five- century old Portuguese fort of Chapora is one of the star attractions of Goa should be your stopover if you are on a sightseeing trip to Goa.
The churches of Goa are postcards from the past. Visitors to the state will enjoy visiting these well-known churches. Whether you're looking for a brush with divine, or just want to admire the beautiful architecture, these Goa churches are well worth visiting in the state. Se Cathedral, Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Cajetan Church, Church of St. Francis Assisi, Church of Our Lady of Rosary, Ruins of Church of St. Augustine, Nunnery of Santa Monica, Viceroy's Arch all in Old Goa, Reis Magos Church, the Church of Mae de Deus at Saligao, Rachol Seminary, the Church of St. Alex at Curtorim are some truly spectacular churches and cathedrals spread all over the state of Goa.
Resembling a pagoda Shri Shantadurga Temple is dedicated to the goddess of peace and is famous for its annual carnival during which it is visited by people. The carnival is a unique blend of Hindu and Christian cultures. Located 22 km from Panaji, Shri Manguesh Temple at Pirol is another famous Hindu shrine in Goa. Mahalaxmi temple at Panaji, Shri Shanta Durga Temple at Kavlem, Shri Mahalsa at Mardol and Mahadev Temple at Tambdi Surla are other popular temples in the state.
The well-known mosques of Goa are deservedly tourist attractions in the state not to be missed. These mosques are places for religious pilgrimage. Located 26 Km. from Margao, Jama Masjid at Sanguem is a famous mosque in Goa. Safa Masjid at Ponda is another popular mosque which attracts devotees and visitors in good number.
Goa State Museum, Museum of Christian Art, Archaeological Museum & Portrait Gallery, Galleries at Se Cathedral, Wax World Museum, the Customs & Central Excise Museum, the Big Foot Museum, Cross Museum & Local Handicrafts Centre at Loutolim, Houses of Goa at Porvorim, Art Gallery, Gallery Attic, Calliz Museum at Candolim, Vintage Car Museum at Nuvem, Xavier Centre of Historical Research, Gallery Gitanjali, Picturesque Gallery are the famous museums and art galleries in Goa. A crucible of Christian art, Goa State Museum also contains some of the finest specimens of Hindu and Jain sculptures. Here you can also find Indian paintings of different styles.
Goa is home to famed wildlife sanctuary of Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary which is located at Chorao. The sanctuary boasts around 400 species of birds, both local and migratory. It is named after Salim Ali, the famous Indian ornithologist, and is a favourite haunt of the birdwatchers. Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary at Molem, Bondla Forest and Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary are favourite haunts of the wildlife enthusiasts.
Waterfalls, sights ideal for a romantic vacation, are found in Goa in good numbers. Arvalem Waterfalls, Dudhsagar Waterfalls near Colem, Mayem Lake and Kesarval Spring are the natural wonders of Goa.
The cities and towns of Goa have long histories, offering colonial charm. Panaji, Margao, Vasco-da-Gama, Mapusa, Pilar and Chandor are the major cites and towns of Goa. Set off to discover these cities and towns of Goa and their magical historical places, where you will find yourself back in past time.
The beaches of Goa and realated activities are the main atrractions of Goa. Some of the major beach and sea related activities in Goa are
Some of the tourist destination in and around Goa are: