Incredible Goa!. Review on Goa

Many seems to contradict that Goa is all about the sun and sand. And we find ourselves asking time and again.. why not?. To those who have visited Goa, it seems to be a big cliché as Goa has so much to offer.

Goa is situated on the West coast of the Indian sub-continent, it has attracted travellers from time immemorial. Many a century has passed, but Goa still retains its magic and charm and today it’s ranked among the world’s top 10 holiday destinations. With white sands and palm fringed beaches, and azure sparkling water of the Arabian Sea, the essence of Goa lies in its natural beauty, vibrancy and cosmopolitan nature.

With its mesmerizing landscapes, flora and fauna, Goa has a 106 kms uninterrupted coastline with the waters of the Arabian Sea lapping its shores. Blue rivers meander downstream and add life and colour to this beautiful land. Away from cities and the crowded beaches, the villages of Goa with their churches and temples, mansions, and stately private homes offer a glimpse into the rich past.. the history, legacy, traditions and a way of life that is truly and exquisitely Goan.

Goa has its unique tradition communal harmony and fusion, not only people from all communities live in communal harmony, but participate enthusiastically in the church feasts and temples jatras alike. Gratitude to our St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa and Shantadurga, the kul devta, as Goa has remained the safest tourist destination not only in the country but across the globe ( the recent attack on tourist in Goa has off course certain negative impression, but I’m sure that will fade away in due course).

Goa has unique cultural identity often described as a combination of Eastern spirituality and Western sensibilities. The traditional expressions of folk dance, music, drama and literature, art and crafts. Cultural festivals are held on all occasions like the Hindu festival of Shigmo, Temple Zatras harvest seasons, and other religious celebrations. Tiatras or the Goan Konkani stage dramas are truly entertaining.

Goa’s magnificent Churches, Temples and Mosques ranging from the world heritage 16 th century Born Jesus Basilica, which houses the relics of Goa’s patron saint, St. Francis Xavier, the temple of Ponda, the home of Shantadurga and Mangurshi Temple. Among the old temple is Tambdi Surla temple devoted to Lord Shiva dates back to 12 th century nestled at the foot of the Shayadhri hills range.

Goa’s amazing bio-diversity provides a great opportunity to explore rich fertile lowlands, the back waters and the lush green hills and wild life reserves. Crocodile (Mugger) sighting, bird watching, fishing expeditions, adventurous water sports and Dolphin cruises out at sea are activities to keep us enthralled.

Among the sunny beaches of Goa, Colangute & Colva are fascinated by the tourists and forts like Tiracol, built by Portuguese during 1776, Chapora, Fort Aguada and Ries Magos are unique.

Music runs in the blood of the Goan people, the music events are regular features. The Mando, classical Indian and Western music concerts, Heritage Jazz, the Monte Music festival, the annual Sangeet Sammelan at Kavlem, Sunburp Music festival are few Goa has to offer.

Goa offers incredible range of cuisine to suit every palate. From traditional Goan fish curry to lip smacking delicacies and a wide range of international culinary experiences ranging from Chinese and Thai to Italian and Lebanese.

Goa is a perfect holiday destination, to rejuvenate your senses, body and the mind and be synonymous with the land – Goa, Incredible Goa.