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About Goa |
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LOCAL FACTS
Located on the west coast of India, in the region known as the Konkan, and
is bounded by the state of Maharashtra to the north, and Karnataka to the
east and south, Goa is India's smallest state in terms of area. The
Arabian Sea makes up the state's west coast. Panaji is the state's
capital, and Vasco-da-Gama (Vasco) its largest town. Portuguese merchants
first landed in Goa in the 16th century but soon after colonised it. The
Portuguese colony existed for about 450 years, until it was annexed as
part of India in 1961.
Internationally renowned for its beaches, Goa is visited by hundreds of
thousands of foreign and domestic tourists each year.
Besides beaches, Goa is also known for its world heritage architecture
including the Bom Jesus Basilica. Goa also has rich flora and fauna, owing
to its location on the Western Ghats range.
Capital: Panaji
Area: 3702 sq km
Language: Konkani, Marathi, Hindi, English
Season: October to March
Airports: Goa's International Airport is Dabolim, at a distance of
29 km from Panaji, on the coast near Vasco Da Gama
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Places of Interest in Goa
Calangute Beach
16 Kms from Panaji, is one of the most popular beach in Goa and known as
The Queen of Beaches.
Colva Beach
About 6 kms from Margao. Colva beach is the pride of Salcete and the only
rival to Calangute by its scenic splendour.
Dona Paula
7kms from Panaji. An idyllic picturesque spot. Commands a fine view of the
Zuari river and Mormugao Harbour. Water scooter & Speed Boat facilities
are available here.
Miramar Beach
Miramar is 3 kms from Panaji. A lovely golden beach of soft sand girdled
with palm trees facing the blue Arabian Sea, is the nearest to Panaji.
Anjuna Beach
Anjuna, 18 kms from Panaji is a popular beach area adjacent to Chhapora
fort- it was the haunt of the flower generation in the sixties - and is
still popular with the younger generation.
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Temples
Some of the oldest temples in Goa are the ones built by the Saraswat
Brahmins of Bihar-the Mangeshi Temple of Priol, the Shanta Durga Temple at
Kavele, and the Sri Nagesh Maharudra Temple at Bandora.
Churches
-Basilica Of Bom Jesus, Old Goa
This Church has stunning display of architectural pieces in wood,
stone, gold and granite.
-Chapel and Tomb of St. Francis Xavier
This chapel has silver casket that houses the immortal remains of St.
Francis Xavier.
-Mary Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim
This church has to be visited at night to view this huge monument into
glowing marvel.
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