Goa

Goa, the smallest state of India in terms of area, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. In terms of population, it is also one of the smallest states in the subcontinent. Nevertheless, Goa is the most affluent state in India.

About Goa

Goa is situated in South West India. It is a part of the Konkan Region. Goa is bordered by Karnataka to the east and south, Maharashtra to the north, and the Arabian Sea creates the western shore.

The capital of Goa is Panaji (Panjim) and the biggest city is Vasco Da Gama. The famous city of Margaon still displays the traditional influence of the Portuguese people. Goa is famous all over the world for its picturesque beaches, world heritage architecture, and religious sites. Millions of domestic and international travelers come to Goa every year, making it one of the most favorite tourist destinations in the world. It is also known for its diverse flora and fauna, which is a result of its position on the Western Ghats Mountain Range. The Western Ghats Mountain Range is categorized as a biodiversity hotspot.

Tourist Attractions in Goa

Goa is a top tourist destination in India. Tourism is the main industry in the state. There are many things to do and see in this place. Major rivers of Goa are the Zuari, the Mandovi, the Chapora, the Terekhol, and the Sal River. The Mormugao Port is one of the most famous natural harbors in South Asia. There are many islands and they can be classified as riverine, marine, and estuarine islands. For the most part of the year, the state features a warm and moist climate. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Goa are as follows:

Beaches

Beaches in Goa are favorite tourist destinations for both domestic and overseas tourists. These beaches can be categorized into the following:

Beaches in North Goa

• Morjim
• Arambol
• Vagator
• Chapora
• Baga
• Anjuna
• Candolim
• Calangute
• Bambolim
• Sinquerim
• Dona Paula
• Miramar
  

Beaches in South Goa

• Majorda
• Bogmalo
• Benaulim
• Colva
• Cavelossim
• Varca
• Canaguinim
• Mobor
• Palolem
• Agonda

Historical sites in Goa

The Bom Jesus Basilica or Basilica of Good Jesus is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Goa. It is a World Heritage Site. This basilica contains the relics of St. Francis Xavier. The Bom Jesus Basilica is situated in Old Goa. The church is one of the finest examples of baroque design in India. The Velhas Conquistas Areas are famous for their Portuguese-Goanese pattern architecture. Goa is also home to a number of forts like

Chapora, Tiracol, Aguada, Corjuem, Cabo de Rama, and Gaspar Dias. The Mahalasa Temple and the Mangueshi Temple are the two most famous temples in the state.

Museums in Goa

The most popular museums in Goa are the Naval Aviation Museum and Goa State Museum. Goa Science Center is situated in Panjim and it is also becoming a popular tourist spot. A Wax Museum is situated in Old Goa, which is worth visiting.

Flora and fauna of Goa

Goa is a place with a wide diversity of flora and fauna. It is home to over 1,500 species of trees. The major cash crops are cashewnuts, coconuts, sugarcane, arecanuts, and fruits such as mangos, pineapples, and bananas. There are many wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Goa and some of them are as follows:

• Mollem Wildlife Sanctuary
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
• Mahadeyi Wildlife Sanctuary
• Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
• Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary
• Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
• Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

The wildlife sanctuaries of Goa are home to the following species of animals:

• Wild boars
• Foxes
• Migrant birds
• Parrots
• Mynas
• Kingfishers
• Lobsters
• Crabs
• Jellyfish
• Shrimps
• Catfish
• Oysters
• Different species of snakes