The party capital of India-Goa

Vasco da Gama is the largest city of Goa and Margao is the cultural capital of Goa, which exhibits the Portuguese culture. Goa is a popular tourist spot. The travellers from different parts of the country and foreigners as well come to enjoy the atmosphere of Goa.

Goa is one of the happening places of India. Surrounded by Maharashtra in the north and Karnataka in the south and east, Goa is the smallest state of India. Goa is a part of the Konkan region. Northern Goa is more urban than the southern part which is more forested. Apart from the beaches, the coconut plantations and rice fields enhance Goa’s beauty. However, tourism is the main pilot of Goa’s economy. There are abundant number of hotels in Goa and visitors can choose according to their preferences.

Goa is a major tourist destination of India. Panaji is the capital of Goa and this land was ruled by Portuguese for about 450 years. And so, you will find the Portuguese culture mixed with the surreal beauty of this little land. The age old heritage still reflects in the architecture of the churches and the old houses. The culture of Goa is different from the rest of the country. Goa is full of colour and life and very much famous for its happening beaches and night clubs. It is also known as the ‘Party capital of India’.

For many of us, the name Goa generates a picture of waves and beaches. Yes, Goa beholds some happening beaches. Anjuna beach, Baga beach and the hippie culture of Calangute beach will make you cherish the time you spend in the city. Majora beach is very clean and you will love the environment here.

Basilica de Bom Jesus at Old Goa is an important landmark of Catholic world where St Francis Xavier is buried. Saint Francis of Assisi, Chapel of St. Augustine, Chruch of Our Lady Immaculate Conception, etc. are popular churches of Goa. Fort Aguada and Chapora Fort give some awesome views of the surroundings. The Bollywood movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot here in Chapora Fort. It is a popular place.

Flea markets are very famous in Goa. Every Wednesday at Anjuna and Friday at Mapusa you can enjoy the market hopping. The items in these markets reflect the ethnic culture of Goa. You will find lots of items like junk jewellery, beach wear, Tibetan handicrafts, antiques, etc. You can buy things as souvenirs at very affordable prices. Apart from these if you want to buy some premium quality material, government emporium and handicrafts emporium are there in Panaji, Anjuna, Calangute and Rau do oumer.

Located in the Western Ghats, Goa has a collection of rich flora and fauna. There are two popular sanctuaries where the visitors can enjoy the exotic nature. Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is in the Chorao islands. It derived its name after a famous ornithologist of the world and is a home to different kinds of birds. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the largest sanctuaries of the state located in Molem village.

The peak season is from mid-December to mid-January; however, the best time to visit is from October to April. Hotels and eateries are spread throughout the city. You can pick from the list of budget hotels in Goa but it is recommended to book rooms before you visit this awesome beach city.

Sandeep is an experienced travel consultant, who enjoys travelling and loves to write about the destinations he has been to and shares his experience. He also writes about travel tips, world's best holiday destinations, best hotels in a destination,