The irresistibly charming party paradise of India
West India is a diverse and dynamic region of India, known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and economic importance. It features a variety of landscapes, including beaches, deserts, mountains, and urban centers. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of West India
Indeed, one of the top-most tourist destinations in India, Goa is known for leisure travel as well as a budding romantic destination. For those searching for adventure water sports, get ready to be delighted with spotting dolphins, snorkelling and underwater diving. It is also a paradise for bird watchers and every backpacker’s favourite destination. For history buffs and photographers, the historic forts and cathedrals in Goa are living history.
With warm sand tickling your shoes, exotic birds chirping in the sky, age-old Portuguese churches healing your soul—Goa tour will hook you; zap you with so much love and admiration. The history of Goa reveals its Portuguese influences, especially in the culture, cuisines and festivals.
Following are the tourist attractions in West India
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Lauded as one of the oldest churches in India, it is one of the topmost tourist attractions in Old Goa. Consecrated in 1605, it reveals the beauty of Baroque architecture—derived mainly from the renaissance movement. It is known for preserving the body of St. Francis Xavier, for more than 400 years.
Pilgrims from all over the world visit the Basilica especially during the much awaited public viewing of the body, once in every ten years. Along with being very auspicious and unwavering charm of Goan culture, it also heals one’s soul. Italian sculptor Giovanni Battista Foggini had designed the mausoleum inside the Basilica.
Fort Aguada
This well preserved 17th century lighthouse elegantly overlooking the Arabian Sea is one of the sought after destinations in Goa. Interestingly, the term ‘Agua’ means ‘water’ in Portuguese. Constructed in 1613, it is located near to the Candolim Beach and is embroidered by River Mandovi.
One of the prominent landmarks of Portuguese culture, it was used for defence against the Marathas and Portuguese. Interestingly, it was also once used as a prison during the Portuguese rule. It is famous for the gunpowder room, bastions, lighthouse, underground water storage and emergency escape.
Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church: Built in 1541 and initially designed as a chapel, its architecture resembles a white wedding cake. Situated in Panaji, it follows the architectural patterns of Baroque architecture. Historically it helped in sea route navigation of ships coming from Lisbon, Portugal.
The three prominent altars in the church are gold-plated, including that of Lady Mary, crucifixion of Jesus and Our Lady of Rosary. Everyday masses are conducted in Konkani, Portuguese and English. The annual Festival of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception—conducted on March 8 every year—attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Perched majestically over the daunting peaks of Western Ghats, it is definitely one of the must visit sites in Goa for nature-lovers. Resembling streams of milk, flowing with gusto, is definitely a spectacular sight to behold.
Embroidering the Goa-Karnataka border, it is also one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The rich bio-diversity and surrounding foliage of deciduous forests, adds to its beauty, especially during monsoons. This off-beat location is also a favourite for hikers and trekkers.
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Named after Salim Ali, one of most famous ornithologists in India, it is located on the western tip of Chorao Island. Definitely a bird watcher’s paradise, it is covered with mangrove swamps.
The only bird sanctuary in Goa, it is a must-visit for nature and bird lovers especially during winter season. Several water channels criss-cross the sanctuary. One can also spot the birds from the watch-tower. Apart from coastal birds, one can also spot crocodiles, jackals and foxes.
Famous Goan cuisines
Embracing the lip-smacking delicacies of popular cuisine in the West Coast, the famous cuisines in Goa include seafood, chicken lamb, local spices and coconut milk. Revealing a rich blend of both Portuguese and Indian cooking styles, it’s incredibly tasty.
Festivals in Goa
Celebrated with immense zeal and fervour, the famous festivals include Feast of Three Kings (January), Goa Carnival (February), Shigmo (March), Bonderam (August), Ganesh Chaturthi (August) and Feast of St. Francis Xavier (December).
Excursions from Goa
Tourists can explore the nearby destinations in Goa Travel Guide like Tiracol Fort (42 km from Panjim), Chorla Ghat (65 km from Panjim), Sawantwadi (80km), Amboli (90 km from Panjim)and Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary (90km from Panjim).
When to Reach
The best time to indulge in Goa travel is definitely from November to February when the weather is very favourable, festivity is one rise and the cultural pulse of the state can be easily felt.
How to Reach
Air: The nearest Dabolim airport is 29 km away from Panjim.
Rail: Thivim and Madgaon are the two main railheads in Goa, which are conveniently, connect with frequent trains across India.
Road: Both inter-city and intra-city conveyance is easily available in Goa on a daily basis.
So, take that Goa trip you have been avoiding so far and indulge in pure bliss. Time is running out. Hurry Up!