Goa Tourist Attraction

Goa is India's smallest state by its geographical area and the fourth smallest by population. The state has been a very important historical and cultural centre since ancient times. In a Hindu scripture Mahabharata it is referred as Gopakpattan or Gomant and in Sutra- Samhita it was mentioned as Govapuri. Located on India's West coast, Goa is a former Portuguese colony with prolific history. The state has unique blend of Indian and Portuguese culture, art and architecture that pulls approx 2.5 millions (wiki) tourists every year. And hence Goa is visibly different from the rest of India.

The magical land of Goa is a land of celebrations and festivities. Snuggled in the Konkan Coast Belt, It has a long coastline of approx 100 kilometers. Goa is primarily known for its beautiful beaches which are engrossed with oscillating palm trees and an astonishing nightlife. It is a wonderful place embraced by joy & happiness only. However, apart from beaches there is much more in Goa. It is such a destination that combines the charm of the old world fashion with exoticism of the new age. And this is the reason why Goa has always been visited by a huge number of national and international tourists each year. Goa is one such captivating tourist destination in India which has something to offer to every enthusiast traveler coming here, nevertheless of budget and varying travel habits. It is also a popular honeymoon destination. The real beauty of Goa lies in its beautiful beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture. It also has bountiful flora and fauna, owing to its location on the Western Ghat Range and it is classified as a biodiversity hotspot.

Culture
Goa stands out all across the globe for its legacy of the Portuguese colonial regime of more than 450 years and heritage. The Portuguese came in GOA in the year of 1510 AD, attracted by exotic East and the promise of lucrative spice routes. Its traditional culture has been primarily crafted by the Hindu and Catholic population. Bestowed with better connectivity by airways, railways and roadways, there has been inrush of people from all neighboring states that has shaped variant cultures. People across the country have now come and settled here.
Beaches in Goa
Despite being the smallest state in India, Goa is synonymous to many captivating things that are best showcase of a life without stress and worries. The multitude of beaches in Goa offer a range of activities such as beautiful walks along the palm fringed shores sprawled with unique shells and intriguing boat rides. There are range of beach huts where tourist can stay in and restaurants in which one can taste local and delicious sea food. There are numerous beaches in the Goa but the beach that is perfect for you will fully depend upon the kind of experience you want to have. Some of the popular beaches of Goa can be named as Arambol, Agonda, Anjuna and Vagator, Calangute, Candolim, Cavelossim, Colva, Dona Paula - a popular beach. Palolem, Sinquierem, Bogomolo - a beautiful and serene beach near Vasco Da Gama.
Tourism in Goa
Tourism activity is generally promoted on the coastal areas of Goa. This picturesque state is a destination of choice for Indian and foreign tourist, especially Britons and Russian travelers. Goa stands 6th among the top ten Nightlife cities in the world in National Geographic Travel. A water sport is the prime attraction of the state. Popular beaches such as Baga and Calangute offer jet-skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, water scooter rides, and much more. Patnem beach in Palolem stood third in CNN Travel's top twenty Beaches in Asia.

Established Historical Sites and Neighbourhoods
Goa has two popular World Heritage Sites namely the Bom Jesus Basilica and Churches and Convents of Old Goa. The Basilica is the showcase of mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, honored by many Catholics as the patron saint of Goa. Sanctuary of Saint Joseph Vaz in Sancoale is one of the popular attractions for tourists. There are various forts in Goa such as Tiracol, Chapora, Corjuem, Aguada, Reis Magos, Nanus, Mormugao, Fort Gaspar Dias and Cabo de Rama.
Museum and Science Centre in Goa
Goa has three important museums viz. the Naval Aviation Museum, the Goa State Museum and the National Institute of Oceanography. There are only three aviation museum in India the others are in Delhi and Bengaluru. The Goa Science Center located in Miramar; Panji is also one of the tourist spot for science enthusiasts. The National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) is located in Dona Paula.
Dance and Music of Goa
Dekhni, Fugdi, Corridinho, Mando, Dulpod and Fado are some of the famous traditional Goan art form. Goan Catholics are mainly fond of social gathering and Tiatr. Music and dance is integral part of every Goan home as their culture is high influenced by Portuguese history. There is a popular saying that "Goans are born with music and sport".
Places to See in Panji
The presence of several Panaji Attractions has boosted the tourism industry of the city and the state as well. Most of these tourist attractions in Panaji are blessed with beautiful natural landscapes, historical significance and serene ambiance. These places are integral part of Panaji Tourism.
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is one of the greatest Panaji tourism destinations. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Panjim is one of the oldest churches in Goa. The 17th century church is located in the center of the prosperous Panjim city.

The simple yet wonderful decorations of the church is its most noteworthy aspect. The clean and tidy well maintained complex pleases the worshipers and tourists alike. Panaji's Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception has a couple of altars dedicated to Our Lady of Rosary and Jesus. Beautiful statues of St. Paul and St. Peter are seen beside the altars. The St. Xavier's Chapel is another attraction of the church.

The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Panaji is not only famous for its religious importance but also for its picturesque location. The church area has been the venue of numerous film shootings. A panoramic view of the entire city from the church atop the hill is an enchanting sight.
Miramar Beach , Panaji
Miramar Beach is located at a distance of 3 km from Panjim city in North Goa. The beach lies along the riverfront on the broad way road DayanandBandodkar Marg, which has been named after the first chief minister of Goa. The view of the Aguada Fort from this place can be enjoyed.. This beach was once famous by the name of the Gaspar Dias beach.

The name of the beach is derived from the word 'Miramar', which in Portuguese stands for 'viewing the sea'. Owing to it's strategic location and beautiful surroundings, the beach is an ideal place for evening walks. At the beach, plethora of watersports like scuba diving, jet skiing, water surfing and fishing can be enjoyed.

Owing to it's location on the migration routes of several species of migratory birds, birdwatching is a popular activity at the beach. Popular species of the migratory birds such as Plovers and Gulls arrive at the destination for their favourable climatic conditions, during winter season.
18th June Road (Shopping)
18th June Road is one of the busiest streets in Panaji, Goa, India. It is located in the heartof the city, and is a major shopping destination for the tourist folks. Major businesses and restaurants line the street. The street is named after the day in 1946 on which Ram manoharLohia had called a meeting to put an end to the Portuguese rule in India