Friday, October 9, 2009

Goa beyond the beach

Goa Beautiful places

However For many People Goa being all about sun 'n' sand in lap of sea the "beach capital of India". But many people fail to look beyond the beaches of Goa and miss out on many interesting things. In early September, which is when I landed here, the sun is mostly in bed and the sand is a wet blanket. But a whole new set of sights and surprises await those who visit the state in the 'off-season'.
Goa Beautiful
So what else is in goa to see beyond the beaches this question has an elaborate answer. There are so many things to do in Goa that one can't imagine.

Sightseeing: From lively flea markets to designer shopping malls, Goa is indeed a collage of exciting contrasts. Sightseeing tours and excursions are also among the must do things for visitors to Goa.

DUDHSAGAR WATERFALLS goaDudhsagar Waterfall: At the edge of western Ghats you can discover the magnificent Dudhsagar Waterfall, located on the Goa-Kartnaka border, measuring 600m from head to foot, Dudhsagar Waterfall also called as “sea of milk”, makes your experience superb.

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary : This will be a fantastic experience and I would recommend it if you were a birdwatcher. Even if you're not, I would still recommend it as it was such a wonderful, extremely tranquil and interesting experience!

Bhagwan MahavirDr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Wildlife Sanctuary: A National park, Nature reserve, Goa has Asia's well known Wildlife sanctuaries. Explore the mysteries of forest and spot wild open animals while your visit to Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary. You can enjoy the thrill of Goa through trekking the jungle and cool off in the plunge pool at the foot of the Dudhsagar Falls. About a third of Goa's total land area is still covered by forests. Besides forests, much of the remaining landscape is covered with plantations. Coconut, cashew and jackfruit grow in abundance.

Goa cruisesCarambolin Lake: Other important picnic spot are Carambolin Lake which boasts of enormous amount of waterfowl and exotic species. It is the ideal place for bird- watching. For more fun and frolic visit artificial Mayem Lake. It has provision for pedal boats for kids. Kesarval spring is regarded as a medicinal fall. People take bath and get cured of skin infection and allergies.

River Mandovi: One of the musts in Panaji is the river cruise on the river of Mandovi, especially the one towards dusk, you can see the sun sinking ever so slowly into the Arabian Sea.. if you are in luck, the occasional dolphin can be sighted.

Forts In Goa: Fort Cabo da RamaWhile in Goa your eyes can not escape the Portuguese connection the state holds close to its heart. There are many things in this kaleidoscopic state of India to see and relish. But when it comes to basking in the past glory, then forts in Goa are surely the best option. and it has much to offer.

Fort Cabo da Rama is located on the southern coast of Goa, this fort has been under the regime of various rulers until the Portuguese took it over from the Raja of Sonda in 1763. It came under the British rule from 1797 to 1802 and then again from 1803 to 1813. After that, not much attention was paid to the fort. The remains of the fort were then used as a prison until 1955.

Fort ChaporaFort Chapora The Portuguese had won their rule in Goa but the threat from the Muslim and Maratha rulers went on. To protect themselves from this risk, the Portuguese built the Chapora fort in 1617. However, the Portuguese completely abandoned the fort In 1892. And what remains today are only ruins. Though, there isn't much to see, the history lingers on.

Fort Aguada
Fort Aguada is strategically situated at the estuary of the river Mandovi, this fort was constructed in 1612 as a guard against invasions from the Dutch and the Marathas. The walls of this fort are 5 mts high and 1.3 mts wide. Little surprise then that this remains to be the only fort that was not conquered by any invaders during the 450 yearlong rule of the Portuguese empire. "Agua" in Portuguese means water, thus the fort derived its name "Aguada" to denote a place where water is accumulated.

An interesting feature in the majestic fort is a 13 mt high lighthouse. This lighthouse, built in 1864, initially used an oil lamp. It was later renovated and modernised in 1976. This lighthouse was home to a gigantic bell that was retrieved from amongst the ruins of the St. Augustus monastery at Old Goa. However, the bell has now been moved to the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception church at Panaji. Though the entire fort is no longer intact, some buildings that are still in good shape have been converted into a prison. Interestingly, it happens to be the largest prison in Goa.

Fort Terekhol situated on the Terekhol River, lies on the northern tip of Goa, on the hillock overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Every monument and fort in Goa is associated with some telling tale. To say it laconically, forts in Goa are the quintessence of serene beauty and charm. Goa forts boast of different streaks. Some Goan forts have Portuguese influence in their structure whereas some have Hindu and Muslim influences. However, the remarkable part of these forts in Goa is that they have stood the test of time and bear testimony of the glory of past times While in Goa you cannot miss out the forts that stand mute testimony to the state's golden past.

Famous Churches: The churches of Goa are monuments of stone. They are of permanent interest to the historian, the archaeologist, The Church of St. Francis of Assisithe student of art and architecture, the tourist and indeed to every curious intellect. The magnificent 16th century city once known as "Goa Dourada" (Golden Goa) rivaled the European cities in splendour and wealth.
These monuments were influential in spreading forms of Manueline, Mannerist and Baroque art in all the countries of Asia where missions were established. The churches and convents of Goa, the former capital of the Portuguese Indies – particularly the Church of Bom Jesus, which contains the tomb of St Francis-Xavier – illustrate the evangelization of Asia. There are so many beautiful church buildings in Goa, you'll lose count.Some of them are:The Basilica of Bom Jesus goa famous churchHoly Spirit Church in GoaSe Cathedral , Old Goa
  • Reis Magos Church, Reis Magos.
  • Church of Our lady of Miracles, Mapusa
  • Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Panaji.
  • Church of St. Ana, Talaulim
  • Church of Mae de Deus, Saligao
  • Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Moira.
  • Church of Our Lady of the Rock of France, Brittona.
  • Se Cathedral, Old Goa
  • Church of St Francis of Assisi, Old Goa
  • Chapel of St. Catherine, Old Goa
  • Ruins of the Church of St Augustine, Old Goa
  • Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa
  • Church of Convent of St. Monica, Old Goa
  • Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, Old Goa
  • Church of St. Cajetan, Old Goa
  • Chapel of St. Anthony, Old Goa
  • Church of Our Lady of the Mount, Old Goa
  • Pilar Seminary, Pilar
  • Saligao Seminary, Saligao
  • Church of Holy Spirit, Margao
  • Church of St. Alex, Curtorim
  • Rachol Seminary, Racho
mahadev temple
Temples:
Some well known Temples are Shree Mahalaxmi Temple, Shree Bhagawati Temple, Shree Hanuman Temple and Damodar Temple. Another holy centre is the Safa Shahouri Masjid which is a must visit spot.Shri Gopal Ganapathi, FarmagudiShri Bhagwati TempleMahalaxmi TempleShri Vijaydurga TempleShri Saptakoteshwar TempleShri Manguesh TempleShri Brahma TempleShri Laxminarsimha TempleSafa Shahouri Masjid
  • Shree Saptakoteshwar Temple, Narve
  • Shree Mahalaxmi Temple, Panaji
  • Shree Kalikadevi, Kansarpal
  • Shree Hanuman Temple, Mapusa
  • Shree Dattatraya Temple, Mapusa
  • Shree Shantadurga Temple, Pernem
  • Shree Devi Shravani, Advopal
  • Shree Sapteshwar-Bhagwati Temple, Mandrem
  • Shree Mahadev Bhumika, Sal
  • Shree Vittal Mandir, Sanquelim
  • Shree Dattatraya Temple, Sanquelim
  • Shree Rudreshwar Temple, Arvalem
  • Shree Brahma Temple, Carambolim
  • Shree Gomateshwar Devasthan, Brahmapur
  • Shree Kamakshi Temple, Shiroda
  • Shree Gopal Ganapathi, Farmagudi
  • Shree Mhalasa Narayani Temple, Mardol
  • Shree Mangueshi Temple, Mangueshi-Priol
  • Shree Laxminarsimha Temple, Nagueshi
  • Shree Mahalaxmi Temple, Bandode
  • Shree Ramnathi Temple, Ramnathi
  • Shree Devkrishna-Ravalnath, Marcela
  • Shree Shantadurga Temple, Kavlem
  • Shree Morajaee Temple, Pernem
  • Shree Bhagwati Temple, Pernem
  • Shree Betal Temple, Pernem
  • Shree Sanusthan Goudpadacharya, Kavlem
  • Shree Navdurga Temple, Madkai
Goa Carnival: Goa Carnival festivalThe 'Carnaval is exclusive and unique to Goa, and was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled over Goa for over five hundred years. The carnival is held in February for three days and nights, when the legendary king Momo takes over the state and the streets come alive with music and color. The carnival is meant to be a feasting-drinking-merrymaking orgy just before the austere 40 days of Lent. Huge parades are organized throughout the state with bands, dances and floats out all night on the streets, and grand balls held in the evenings

Shopping:
Handicraft Shopping in GoaGoa is famous for its shopping places, a travel destination where you can visit without bothering about cloths in your travel bag, but don't forget to bargain. Here you can buy new things as well as sell your old things. Goa is the best places to buy ethnic Goan wear and those little curios that always seem to fascinate you. The best way to visit these places is ti hire Bicycles/Bike At the same time, you can go to those street side shacks that offer warm services and taste delicious. Shop from Mapusa and Anjuna market place. The Saturday Night Market's an institution, with hundreds of great stalls, lots of delicious food and live music to enjoy. If you wish to take back some souvenir from your trip to Goa, Shopping in Goa anjuna beach marketyou can buy any of the following items sold in most shops here.
  • Pottery and Terracotta items
  • Brass metal ware craft
  • Wooden laquerwar or Wood turning
  • Crochet & embroidery
  • Bamboo Craft
  • Fiber craft
  • Jute Macramé craft
  • Coconut mask carving
  • Sea shell craft
Things to do in Goa: Adventure Activities: For those who love adventure, especially water sports will find Goa to be an ideal holiday destination for themselves. Beaches Offer some wonderful water sports like parasailing, water scooters, jet skiing, motor boat and bungee jumping. Sun bathing is also in vogue and get that sexy sun tan look while you laze around in the golden beaches of Goa. Go for scuba diving and explore the world beneath. Some of the popular sports activities you can indulge in Goa are given below:Adventure In Goa
  • Sailing
  • Parasailing
  • Wind surfing
  • Water Skiing
  • Windsurfing
  • Parasailing
  • Water Scooter
Always Ready for Party: goa beach party nightlifeGoa is famous for its trance parties and if you happen to locate one, make sure you take part in it. They are full of fun and indulge in unadulterated pleasure. For the touristy-minded, the river cruises are on even in the monsoons, as are the boat-rides in the backwaters. It being off-season, they are less crowded. And yes, parties still happen at Tito's.

Ayuvedic Therapies: It is a simple way to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Keri Village in Goa is famous for its Ayurveda. All hotels and resorts provide ayurvedic massage to tourists on request. Goa has many more things to offer. Ayuvedic Therapies goaThere are numerous exciting ways to make your holiday memorable. You will always long to come to Goa. Ayurveda is ancient therapy which heals, refreshes and rejuvanates our body. There are different types of therapy:
  • Body Scrubs
  • Ayurveda
  • Aromatherapy
  • Thai Massages
  • Swedish Massages
  • Balinese Massages
Tags: forts of Goa, Architecture in Goa, Goa Travel, Goa India Tourism, Monuments in Goa, Travelling in Goa, Tourist Destinations in Goa India, Holidays in Goa, Cities of Goa, Beaches in Goa, Festivals in Goa, Churches in Goa, Temples in Goa, Wildlife in Goa.

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Goa Beautiful places
However For many People Goa being all about sun 'n' sand in lap of sea the "beach capital of India". But many people fail to look beyond the beaches of Goa and miss out on many interesting things. In early September, which is when I landed here, the sun is mostly in bed and the sand is a wet blanket. But a whole new set of sights and surprises await those who visit the state in the 'off-season'.
Goa Beautiful
So what else is in goa to see beyond the beaches this question has an elaborate answer. There are so many things to do in Goa that one can't imagine.

Sightseeing: From lively flea markets to designer shopping malls, Goa is indeed a collage of exciting contrasts. Sightseeing tours and excursions are also among the must do things for visitors to Goa.

DUDHSAGAR WATERFALLS goaDudhsagar Waterfall: At the edge of western Ghats you can discover the magnificent Dudhsagar Waterfall, located on the Goa-Kartnaka border, measuring 600m from head to foot, Dudhsagar Waterfall also called as “sea of milk”, makes your experience superb.

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary : This will be a fantastic experience and I would recommend it if you were a birdwatcher. Even if you're not, I would still recommend it as it was such a wonderful, extremely tranquil and interesting experience!

Bhagwan MahavirDr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Wildlife Sanctuary: A National park, Nature reserve, Goa has Asia's well known Wildlife sanctuaries. Explore the mysteries of forest and spot wild open animals while your visit to Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary. You can enjoy the thrill of Goa through trekking the jungle and cool off in the plunge pool at the foot of the Dudhsagar Falls. About a third of Goa's total land area is still covered by forests. Besides forests, much of the remaining landscape is covered with plantations. Coconut, cashew and jackfruit grow in abundance.

Goa cruisesCarambolin Lake: Other important picnic spot are Carambolin Lake which boasts of enormous amount of waterfowl and exotic species. It is the ideal place for bird- watching. For more fun and frolic visit artificial Mayem Lake. It has provision for pedal boats for kids. Kesarval spring is regarded as a medicinal fall. People take bath and get cured of skin infection and allergies.

River Mandovi: One of the musts in Panaji is the river cruise on the river of Mandovi, especially the one towards dusk, you can see the sun sinking ever so slowly into the Arabian Sea.. if you are in luck, the occasional dolphin can be sighted.

Forts In Goa: Fort Cabo da RamaWhile in Goa your eyes can not escape the Portuguese connection the state holds close to its heart. There are many things in this kaleidoscopic state of India to see and relish. But when it comes to basking in the past glory, then forts in Goa are surely the best option. and it has much to offer.

Fort Cabo da Rama is located on the southern coast of Goa, this fort has been under the regime of various rulers until the Portuguese took it over from the Raja of Sonda in 1763. It came under the British rule from 1797 to 1802 and then again from 1803 to 1813. After that, not much attention was paid to the fort. The remains of the fort were then used as a prison until 1955.

Fort ChaporaFort Chapora The Portuguese had won their rule in Goa but the threat from the Muslim and Maratha rulers went on. To protect themselves from this risk, the Portuguese built the Chapora fort in 1617. However, the Portuguese completely abandoned the fort In 1892. And what remains today are only ruins. Though, there isn't much to see, the history lingers on.

Fort Aguada
Fort Aguada is strategically situated at the estuary of the river Mandovi, this fort was constructed in 1612 as a guard against invasions from the Dutch and the Marathas. The walls of this fort are 5 mts high and 1.3 mts wide. Little surprise then that this remains to be the only fort that was not conquered by any invaders during the 450 yearlong rule of the Portuguese empire. "Agua" in Portuguese means water, thus the fort derived its name "Aguada" to denote a place where water is accumulated.

An interesting feature in the majestic fort is a 13 mt high lighthouse. This lighthouse, built in 1864, initially used an oil lamp. It was later renovated and modernised in 1976. This lighthouse was home to a gigantic bell that was retrieved from amongst the ruins of the St. Augustus monastery at Old Goa. However, the bell has now been moved to the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception church at Panaji. Though the entire fort is no longer intact, some buildings that are still in good shape have been converted into a prison. Interestingly, it happens to be the largest prison in Goa.

Fort Terekhol situated on the Terekhol River, lies on the northern tip of Goa, on the hillock overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Every monument and fort in Goa is associated with some telling tale. To say it laconically, forts in Goa are the quintessence of serene beauty and charm. Goa forts boast of different streaks. Some Goan forts have Portuguese influence in their structure whereas some have Hindu and Muslim influences. However, the remarkable part of these forts in Goa is that they have stood the test of time and bear testimony of the glory of past times While in Goa you cannot miss out the forts that stand mute testimony to the state's golden past.

Famous Churches: The churches of Goa are monuments of stone. They are of permanent interest to the historian, the archaeologist, The Church of St. Francis of Assisithe student of art and architecture, the tourist and indeed to every curious intellect. The magnificent 16th century city once known as "Goa Dourada" (Golden Goa) rivaled the European cities in splendour and wealth.
These monuments were influential in spreading forms of Manueline, Mannerist and Baroque art in all the countries of Asia where missions were established. The churches and convents of Goa, the former capital of the Portuguese Indies – particularly the Church of Bom Jesus, which contains the tomb of St Francis-Xavier – illustrate the evangelization of Asia. There are so many beautiful church buildings in Goa, you'll lose count.Some of them are:The Basilica of Bom Jesus goa famous churchHoly Spirit Church in GoaSe Cathedral , Old Goa
  • Reis Magos Church, Reis Magos.
  • Church of Our lady of Miracles, Mapusa
  • Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Panaji.
  • Church of St. Ana, Talaulim
  • Church of Mae de Deus, Saligao
  • Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Moira.
  • Church of Our Lady of the Rock of France, Brittona.
  • Se Cathedral, Old Goa
  • Church of St Francis of Assisi, Old Goa
  • Chapel of St. Catherine, Old Goa
  • Ruins of the Church of St Augustine, Old Goa
  • Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa
  • Church of Convent of St. Monica, Old Goa
  • Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, Old Goa
  • Church of St. Cajetan, Old Goa
  • Chapel of St. Anthony, Old Goa
  • Church of Our Lady of the Mount, Old Goa
  • Pilar Seminary, Pilar
  • Saligao Seminary, Saligao
  • Church of Holy Spirit, Margao
  • Church of St. Alex, Curtorim
  • Rachol Seminary, Racho
mahadev temple
Temples:
Some well known Temples are Shree Mahalaxmi Temple, Shree Bhagawati Temple, Shree Hanuman Temple and Damodar Temple. Another holy centre is the Safa Shahouri Masjid which is a must visit spot.Shri Gopal Ganapathi, FarmagudiShri Bhagwati TempleMahalaxmi TempleShri Vijaydurga TempleShri Saptakoteshwar TempleShri Manguesh TempleShri Brahma TempleShri Laxminarsimha TempleSafa Shahouri Masjid
  • Shree Saptakoteshwar Temple, Narve
  • Shree Mahalaxmi Temple, Panaji
  • Shree Kalikadevi, Kansarpal
  • Shree Hanuman Temple, Mapusa
  • Shree Dattatraya Temple, Mapusa
  • Shree Shantadurga Temple, Pernem
  • Shree Devi Shravani, Advopal
  • Shree Sapteshwar-Bhagwati Temple, Mandrem
  • Shree Mahadev Bhumika, Sal
  • Shree Vittal Mandir, Sanquelim
  • Shree Dattatraya Temple, Sanquelim
  • Shree Rudreshwar Temple, Arvalem
  • Shree Brahma Temple, Carambolim
  • Shree Gomateshwar Devasthan, Brahmapur
  • Shree Kamakshi Temple, Shiroda
  • Shree Gopal Ganapathi, Farmagudi
  • Shree Mhalasa Narayani Temple, Mardol
  • Shree Mangueshi Temple, Mangueshi-Priol
  • Shree Laxminarsimha Temple, Nagueshi
  • Shree Mahalaxmi Temple, Bandode
  • Shree Ramnathi Temple, Ramnathi
  • Shree Devkrishna-Ravalnath, Marcela
  • Shree Shantadurga Temple, Kavlem
  • Shree Morajaee Temple, Pernem
  • Shree Bhagwati Temple, Pernem
  • Shree Betal Temple, Pernem
  • Shree Sanusthan Goudpadacharya, Kavlem
  • Shree Navdurga Temple, Madkai
Goa Carnival: Goa Carnival festivalThe 'Carnaval is exclusive and unique to Goa, and was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled over Goa for over five hundred years. The carnival is held in February for three days and nights, when the legendary king Momo takes over the state and the streets come alive with music and color. The carnival is meant to be a feasting-drinking-merrymaking orgy just before the austere 40 days of Lent. Huge parades are organized throughout the state with bands, dances and floats out all night on the streets, and grand balls held in the evenings

Shopping:
Handicraft Shopping in GoaGoa is famous for its shopping places, a travel destination where you can visit without bothering about cloths in your travel bag, but don't forget to bargain. Here you can buy new things as well as sell your old things. Goa is the best places to buy ethnic Goan wear and those little curios that always seem to fascinate you. The best way to visit these places is ti hire Bicycles/Bike At the same time, you can go to those street side shacks that offer warm services and taste delicious. Shop from Mapusa and Anjuna market place. The Saturday Night Market's an institution, with hundreds of great stalls, lots of delicious food and live music to enjoy. If you wish to take back some souvenir from your trip to Goa, Shopping in Goa anjuna beach marketyou can buy any of the following items sold in most shops here.
  • Pottery and Terracotta items
  • Brass metal ware craft
  • Wooden laquerwar or Wood turning
  • Crochet & embroidery
  • Bamboo Craft
  • Fiber craft
  • Jute Macramé craft
  • Coconut mask carving
  • Sea shell craft
Things to do in Goa: Adventure Activities: For those who love adventure, especially water sports will find Goa to be an ideal holiday destination for themselves. Beaches Offer some wonderful water sports like parasailing, water scooters, jet skiing, motor boat and bungee jumping. Sun bathing is also in vogue and get that sexy sun tan look while you laze around in the golden beaches of Goa. Go for scuba diving and explore the world beneath. Some of the popular sports activities you can indulge in Goa are given below:Adventure In Goa
  • Sailing
  • Parasailing
  • Wind surfing
  • Water Skiing
  • Windsurfing
  • Parasailing
  • Water Scooter
Always Ready for Party: goa beach party nightlifeGoa is famous for its trance parties and if you happen to locate one, make sure you take part in it. They are full of fun and indulge in unadulterated pleasure. For the touristy-minded, the river cruises are on even in the monsoons, as are the boat-rides in the backwaters. It being off-season, they are less crowded. And yes, parties still happen at Tito's.

Ayuvedic Therapies: It is a simple way to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Keri Village in Goa is famous for its Ayurveda. All hotels and resorts provide ayurvedic massage to tourists on request. Goa has many more things to offer. Ayuvedic Therapies goaThere are numerous exciting ways to make your holiday memorable. You will always long to come to Goa. Ayurveda is ancient therapy which heals, refreshes and rejuvanates our body. There are different types of therapy:
  • Body Scrubs
  • Ayurveda
  • Aromatherapy
  • Thai Massages
  • Swedish Massages
  • Balinese Massages
Tags: forts of Goa, Architecture in Goa, Goa Travel, Goa India Tourism, Monuments in Goa, Travelling in Goa, Tourist Destinations in Goa India, Holidays in Goa, Cities of Goa, Beaches in Goa, Festivals in Goa, Churches in Goa, Temples in Goa, Wildlife in Goa.

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