Goa
Goa, a tiny emerald land on the west coast of India, the 25th state of the Union states of India, was liberated from Portuguese rule in 1961. It was a part of Union Territory of Goa, Daman & Diu till 30th May 1987 when it was carved out of form a separate state. Goa covers an area of 3702 square kilometers and comprises two Revenue district viz North Goa and South Goa. Boundaries of Goa State are defined in the North Terekhol river which separates it from Maharashtra, in the East and South by Karnataka State and West by Arabian Sea. Goa lies in Western Coast of India and is 594 Km (by road) away from Mumbai city.
Panaji is the state’s capital, while Vasco da Gama is its largest city. The historic city of Margão in Goa still exhibits the cultural influence of the Portuguese, who first voyaged to the subcontinent in the early 16th century as merchants, and conquered it soon thereafter, whereupon Goa became an overseas territory of the Portuguese Empire, part of what was then known as Portuguese India, and remained as such for about 450 years, until it was annexed by India in 1961.[12][13] Goa’s official language, which is spoken by a majority of its inhabitants, is Konkani.
Things to do in Goa
Goa offers a gamut of activities; a whole new euphoria engulfs you once you land at this beautiful hamlet. Whether you are seeking a laid-back experience or looking to chill at the fishing villages like Agonda, or seeking an all-night boisterous rendezvous by the beachside, Goa has it all. There is a solid reason why Goa is known as India’s party-state. There’s no point being at Goa and not indulging in its legendary nightlife. The bright lit beaches and buzzing bazaars in the night offer a perfect ambiance to night lovers. Goa’s lively markets are a shopper’s delight. They sell almost everything, from boutique merchandise to local artifacts. Mapusa Market, a traditional local bazaar, is an animated hub that pulls vendors from all over Goa. All this plus a great culinary experience. Goa is the haven for India’s finest seafood and interesting beverages. This breezy state also prides in boasting a rich history; its vibrancy has roots in several empires- Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist, and the Portuguese- whose essence is staunchly felt in the Goan culture.
