The pocket-sized paradise of Goa is a traveller's dream. Sun, sea, sand, spices, spirituality and seafood, along with a balmy weather, call to the soul of trekkers, backpackers, nature lovers and those who simply want to languish in its slow-paced and relaxed vibes. Located by the glistening waters of the Arabian Sea on India’s western coast, the state of Goa is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, rich culture and pristine natural beauty. Formerly a Portuguese colony, Goa offers travellers a chance to experience a unique blend of sandy shores, forests, monuments and delectable cuisine, attracting tourists across age groups. Its landscape is dotted with a vast range of accommodation options, ranging from ultra-luxurious resorts and boutique hotels to youth hostels, budget-friendly guest houses and private, rentable spaces. These aspects, and more, make Goa a holiday hotspot for large families, solo travellers, backpackers and every other kind of traveller. During winter, its festive ambience is at its peak, while in summers, it boasts lovely weather that’s perfect for a splash in the sea. Monsoon spreads lush greenery across its verdant vistas, peppered with gorgeous waterfalls, making it a trekker’s paradise. Photography enthusiasts, culture buffs, history lovers and night birds – there's something for everyone in the sunshine state. Natural beauty is often said to inspire creativity, and Goa has been home to several gifted artists. Padma Vibhushan, Mario Miranda, the renowned cartoonist and illustrator, spent years creating several of his signature artworks here. Even today, he is best known for his pieces depicting life in a Goan village. Celebrated fashion designer Wendell Rodricks, too, is based out of this beautiful state. As one of the smallest states in India in terms of geographical extent, Goa packs a vast spectrum of cultural experiences. Portuguese, Maharashtrian and Konkani influences are evident in language, food, architecture, dress and dance. Several festivals are celebrated here that bear testimony to its multi-cultural glory. Such are the charms of Goa that even film-makers and writers have found picture-perfect locations here. Goa has been the backdrop of numerous Indian movies, which have captured its spirit as a haven of unforgettable experiences. Anjuna Beach Renowned for its serene vistas of swaying palms, golden sand and the unusual rock formations overlying a cove of white sand, Anjuna Beach is located about 18 km away from Panaji. A weekly flea market draws a large number of visitors every Wednesday, offering an array of apparel, footwear, jewellery, souvenirs, knick-knacks and more. There are many beach shacks here that have achieved legendary status. Additionally, there are some youth hostels here too Baga Beach Part of a 30 km stretch of coastline along Goa's west coast, beginning at Fort Aguada and stretching up to Chapora Beach, this is a bustling beach that is lined with beach shacks, vendors, restaurants and a host of companies offering adventure sport activities. It is popular with international tourists as a base for water sports and fishing in the area. Basilica Of Bom Jesus Probably the most famous church in Goa and one of the most revered by Christians globally, the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa is famed for housing the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier. This complex, along with some other churches of Old Goa, features on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Its exterior facade, built using black granite, is noted for Baroque architecture combined with Doric, Corinthian and composite influences. Inside, the main altar is 30-ft-broad and 54-ft-high and its pillars have been erected using basalt from Bassein (now Vasai, a town in Maharashtra), approximately 300 km away. Richly gilded, it features the figure of infant Jesus Christ, above which is a statue of St Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order. The latter gazes at a medallion, and above this is depicted the Holy Trinity (Father, Son and the Holy Spirit). The southern side of the basilica houses the chapel wherein are preserved the sacred relics St Francis Xavier. The church's interior is richly adorned with wood carvings and paintings that depict scenes from the lives of St Xavier. A silver casket, which contains the sacred relics of the saint, is divided into seven panels each of which contains two plates that are representative of the incidents of the saint's life. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is the only church in the state to not have plastered exterior. On November 24, 1594, the foundation stone of the church was laid and it was consecrated on May 15, 1605 by the Archbishop of Goa, Fr Alexia de Menezes. It was raised to the status of basilica in 1946. Benaulim Beach Situated around 2 km south of Colva, Benaulim Beach is one of Goa’s quieter and more peaceful beaches. It is also one of the few places in the state where you can buy local handicrafts indigenous to the area. Mythologically, it is believed to be the place where Lord Parshuram’s arrow landed that resulted in the formation of Goa. The Church of St John the Baptist is worth a visit. The Feast of St John the Baptist is celebrated with much fanfare here during the monsoon months. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary Nestled at the foothills of the Western Ghats, this sanctuary is spread across an area of 240 sq km and is the largest of Goa's wildlife reserves. You can spot tiger, leopard, jungle cat, toddy cat, jackal, giant squirrel, bonnet macaque, sloth bear, hyena, sambar, spotted deer, hog, mouse deer, barking deer, ruby-throated yellow bulbul, Malabar pied hornbill, Malabar trogan, crested serpent eagle, crested honey buzzard, white-rumped spine tail, ashy wood swallow, black-crested bulbul, forest wagtail, scarlet minivet, chestnut-bellied nuthatch, velvet-fronted nuthatch and sulphur-bellied warbler. The reptiles found at the park include bronze-back tree snake, cat snake, hump-nosed pit viper, Indian rock python, Malabar pit viper, rat snake, Russell's viper, Indian cobra and common krait. The most famous reptilian inhabitant of the park, however, is king cobra. The best way to explore the park is by hiking through it and one can choose from a number of treks and hikes conducted by knowledgeable guides. There is also an Interpretation Centre, which has an invaluable amount of collectibles and data from the park. Braganza House Built in the 17th century, Braganza House is a magnificent Portuguese mansion that extends along one side of the Chandor village square and is spread over 10,000 sq m. Constructed as a single structure by the Braganza family, it was eventually divided into two wings, both of which are now open to tourists. The biggest Portuguese mansion, one-of-its-kind in Goa, it was built on land granted by the king of Portugal to the Braganza family, who were an influential lot. In 1950, the Braganza family fled from the mansion as one the family members was closely associated with the Indian Independence movement against the Portuguese rule. After India gained freedom from the Portuguese in 1961, the family returned. Tourists can get to witness two chairs that bear the coat of arms gifted to them by the king of Portugal. An architectural marvel, the mansion boasts a Portuguese style outer facade with 24 windows. A representative or family member is always forthcoming to give tourists a guided tour. The west wing belongs to the Menezes-Braganza family while the east wing is with the Pereira-Braganza family. The latter includes a chapel that houses a relic of St Francis Xavier. Antique artefacts collected over the years make the tour around the structure particularly fascinating. A salon and a ballroom featuring an Italian marble floor with a stunning chandelier and ornate furniture dating back to the 18th century, amplify its charm. The west wing is home to a library, believed to be the first private library in Goa. It contains around 5,000 books collected by Luis de Menezes Braganza (1878-1938), a renowned journalist of his time. Though there is no entry fee, tourists can offer a donation, which is utilised for the maintenance and upkeep of the mansion. Calangute Beach Fondly called the queen of beaches by locals, Calangute Beach is among the most popular beaches in Goa, attracting large crowds throughout the year. The village of Calangute is equipped with all basic facilities a traveller would need, including banks, foreign exchange offices, Internet cafes, hotels and resorts, eateries and hospitals. Church Of St Francis Of Assisi Located in the main square of Old Goa, the Church of St Francis of Assisi is around 10 km from Panaji. The church was established by eight Franciscan friars who arrived in Goa in 1517. Retaining the Portuguese-Manueline style portal of its older structure, which was built in 1665, the Church of St Francis of Assisi, offers a fascinating visual contrast between its simple exterior facade and its lavish Baroque interior. Featuring Corinthian influences, the interior is beautifully decorated. The main altar is the highlight, with a large statue of St Francis of Assisi above it, along with another of Jesus Christ. It is flanked on either side by paintings on wood depicting the life and times of its patron saint. The church started off as a chapel was upgraded to a church in 1521 and consecrated in 1602 with the present structure being built in 1661. Contiguous to the church is the convent, which is now home to a museum. Set up by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in 1964, it houses paintings, sculptures and other artefacts related to the history and culture of Goa. The church, facing west, contains a nave with three chapels on both the sides, a main altar and a choir. Colva Beach Boasting pristine white sands fringed by swaying palms, Colva Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the state and is located in South Goa. It is equipped with several modern amenities including tourist cottages, air-conditioned resort complexes, restaurants and guest houses. The Church of Our Lady Of Mercy nearby is also worth a visit and is renowned for its statue of Menino Jesus. Dudhsagar Falls Plunging down a height of 300 m, this waterfall is one of the most spectacular sights in Goa, especially during the monsoon months. Its name implies a sea of milk in Konkani, owing, it is believed, to how the water looks as it cascades down an almost vertical cliff face - rich, white and foamy like pure milk. One of the most glorious waterfalls in the country, Dudhsagar Falls is set in the midst of spectacular scenery and overlooks a valley covered by the tropical forest of Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary and Molem National Park in the Western Ghats. You can reach the falls via trekking through picturesque surroundings. Legend has it that once a wealthy ruler of the Western Ghats had an opulent palace in the hills that were surrounded by gardens, which had a large number of gazelles and deer. The king had a daughter who loved bathing in the picturesque lake during the summer months. After finishing her bath, the princess used to have sugared milk in a jug of pure gold. One day, after she had completed her daily routine, she saw a handsome prince watching her. As she was not dressed properly, she was embarrassed and to form an improvised curtain, the prince poured the sugared milk in front of her even as one of her maids rushed to cover her. The sugared milk poured down from the mountain and continued to flow in torrents as a tribute to the everlasting modesty of the princess of the ghats. Fort Aguada Built to defend and protect Old Goa from potential invasions, Fort Aguada is the largest and the best-preserved Portuguese bastion in the state. It was built sometime between 1609 and 1612 to guard against the Marathas and the Dutch forces that wanted to establish their reign. Its strategic location limited the entry into River Mandovi and also to protected Old Goa from enemy attacks. Among the most fascinating highlights of the fort is a large cistern that could store over 20,00,000 gallons of water and a magnificent citadel. A four-storey lighthouse, built in 1864, sits prettily on the premises, and is believed to be the oldest of its kind in Asia. During the initial days, the lighthouse emitted light once every seven minutes that was reduced to every 30 seconds in 1834. The lighthouse was ultimately abandoned in 1976. The fort has been named after a freshwater spring located inside it that once provided water to arriving ships. Though the fort has lost its earlier grandeur, some of the buildings are still intact and have been converted into a prison. Tourists can reach the hilltop fort either from a 4-km-long road from Sinquerim Beach or a 2-km steep footpath. Aguada Fort is a fine example of Portuguese construction and engineering and is the best preserved Portuguese fort in India. It is said that so well built and fiercely armed was this fort that it never fell into enemy hands. It also boasts of a secret passage which was used in the times of war and emergency. Goa Carnival (Carnaval) One of the best festivals in not just the state of Goa but also the whole of India, Goa Carnival draws people in droves. This unique festival has been celebrated since the 18th century after it was introduced by the erstwhile Portuguese rulers of Goa. Music, dancing and revelry make up this three-day non-stop extravaganza in the state. Colourful parades with floats are taken out all over Goa. These are organised by the State Tourism Department. The float parade in Panaji is presided over by a king Momo, appointed especially for the festival. Preceding Lent, this carnival is held in February and comprises three days of singing, dancing, feasting and fun. The king and his entourage arrive on “Fat Saturday”, the eve of the carnival, and helm a lively parade of colourful floats and troupes of revellers in vibrant costumes and masks, singing folk songs and dancing along the streets. Although the festival is primarily celebrated by Christians, people of all faiths join in the festivities. Goa Chitra Museum Located in Benaulim, Goa Chitra is a museum set up by Victor Hugo Gomes, an artist and restorer by profession, in a bid to preserve traditional items and memorabilia from the state. With more than 4,000 objects on display, Goa Chitra Museum delves into the culture of ancient Goa. The exhibits include traditional farming implements and other ancient tools of trade. Each of the artefacts is supplemented by information collected in situ by interviewing the elders of the community and through the study of its application in daily life. Goa Chitra is an ethnographical museum, which means it is a reflection of civilisations whether or not technically advanced. When such a museum is planned, importance is given to the concept that the implements represent people's lifestyles, their indigenous methods, craftsmanship, art and folklore. Goa State Museum The Goa State Museum, located in the Old Secretariat, Panaji, was set up with an aim to preserve the arts and antiquities of the state, along with objects of cultural significance. The extensive collection at the museum includes exhibits related to the state's natural heritage, contemporary art, cultural anthropology, environment and development, sculpture and geology, among other things. Also known as the State Archaeology Museum, the Goa State Museum was established in 1977 and has over 8,000 artefacts on display that include bronze items, paintings, stone sculptures, manuscripts, rare coins and anthropological and wooden objects. The museum has 14 galleries - Sculpture Gallery, Christian Art Gallery, Printing History Gallery, Banerji Art Gallery, Religious Expression Gallery, Cultural Anthropology, Contemporary Art Gallery, Numismatics Gallery, Goa's Freedom Struggle Gallery, Menezes Braganza Gallery, Furniture Gallery, Natural Heritage of Goa Gallery, Environment & Development Gallery, and Geology Gallery. The museum, open from Monday to Friday, has no entry fee. Photography is only allowed for students and scholars except on prior request. Kesarval Falls Also known as Kesarval Springs, Kesarval Falls is renowned for its medicinal properties. Attracting a large number of visitors from around the world, it is situated near the village of Cortalim, about 22 km from the city of Panaji. The best time to visit Kesarval Falls is during monsoon when you can see the cascading water flow into the lake below. The word 'kesarval' comes from the Indian word for eagles. It was so named as the cliff near the waterfall was home to hundreds of eagles. Before the 1950s, the falls could only be reached through a stony zigzag trail but after the Government of Goa declared it a tourist stopover, steps were constructed for easy accessibility. Mahadev Temple The Mahadev Temple, which is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Goa, is situated in Tambdi Surla, around 65 km from Panaji. An excellent example of Jain-style architecture, the Mahadev Temple was built in the 12th century and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The inner sanctum contains a linga (symbol of Lord Shiva) placed on a pedestal, along with a headless Nandi (the bull that is Lord Shiva's vehicle) in the centre of the mandap (pillared outdoor hall). A flight of stone steps leads visitors to River Surla flowing nearby. The temple has been beautifully carved in black basalt and is quite similar to the ones found in Aihole in Karnataka. It is considered to be the only remaining specimen of Kadamba-Yadava (10th-14th centuries) architecture. The weather-resistant black basalt was brought here from the Deccan plateau and carved in situ by skilled craftsmen. The temple faces east so that the first rays of the sun fall on the deity. The inner sanctum and the pillared hall are surmounted by an incomplete three-tiered tower. On panels at the sides of the temple are bas-relief figures of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma with their respective consorts. The mandap is surprisingly covered with a roof of plain grey sloping slabs. An elephant trampling a horse, the symbol of the Kadamba kingdom, is carved at the base of one of the columns. A linga is mounted on a pedestal inside the inner sanctum. Local legend has it that a huge king cobra is in permanent residence in the dimly lit interior of the temple. The festival of Mahashivratri is celebrated with great pomp and vibrance on the temple's premises every year by the residents of surrounding villages. Mahalasa Temple Situated in the village of Mardol, about 22 km from the state capital, the temple of Mahalasa Narayani is a beautiful structure. The presiding deity, Mahalasa, is a Hindu goddess, who is considered to be the female incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is famed for some unique characteristics like the tall samai (lamp) or the dnyandeepa, a historic bell, a grand copper roof and more. Legend has it that a beautiful goddess once appeared at Verna village, and was first seen by a shepherd, Sahastrapal. He was asked by the goddess to bring his master but the shepherd hesitated and said that his cattle was thirsty. The goddess, with her nupur (musical ornament worn on ankles), created a spring that is said to exist till today. Though the shepherd went to get his master, he could only manage to bring back his son-in-law, named Mhal Pai, who was told by the goddess to construct a temple to enable her to reside there as Mahalasa Narayani. With huge wooden pillars and a silver-framed doorway, the beautiful temple of Mahalasa has a huge brass ornamental pillar lamp, 40 ft high. It is a sight to behold when the pillar lamp is lit during the annual jatra days. The temple also celebrates Jaiyanchi Puja around August and Kojagiri Poornima on full moon days after the monsoon and these are attended by devotees from across the state. Mahalaxmi Temple A number of temples are situated in the quaint village of Bandivade or Bandode, about 22 km from Panaji and the magnificent temple of Goddess Mahalaxmi is one of the most-visited among them. The Mahalaxmi Temple has been here since 1413, based on information about the rituals of the temple that were found on stone plaques carved during the reign of Nanjan Gosavi Pratihast over Goa. The temple premises has two idols of Mahalaxmi along with other deities - Shri Narayan Purush, Shri Baleshwar, Shri Ravalnath. On the occasion of Ramnavmi, the secondary idol is taken out in a procession, every year, in a palanquin and chariot. The main idol of Goddess Mahalaxmi is taken out only during the festival of Mahashivratri on a chariot carried on the shoulders of the devotees. Manguesh Temple The most famous of all temples in Goa, the Manguesh Temple or Manguesh Devasthanam is situated at Priol in the taluka of Ponda, which is around 20 km from the capital city of Panaji. Legend has it that Lord Shiva lost all he had in the game of dice he was playing with his wife, Goddess Parvati, so he decided to go for a self-imposed exile and arrived here. As Parvati could not stay without him for long, she came looking for him in the jungles of Goa. Lord Shiva played a prank on her by disguising himself into a tiger and attacking her. Terrified, Parvati shouted, "trahi maam girisha" (O lord of mountains, save me). At this point, Lord Shiva changed to his original form but the words stayed with him. In due course of time, these were abbreviated to Manguirisha or Manguesh. It is the only place where Lord Shiva is called by this name. After a local shepherd discovered a linga here, a temple was dedicated to Lord Manguesh. The best time to visit the temple is when it is lit up beautifully during the annual Jatra, a festival held in the month of January that is attended by thousands of devotees. Mapusa Goa's third-largest town, Mapusa is situated around 13 km from Panaji. It is primarily known for its vibrant Friday Market. Attracting visitors from across the state, the market offers much, including fresh and dried fish, spices, cashews, fruits and vegetables, incense and even souvenirs. This is also a great place to sample local Goan culinary fare such as spicy sausages. The Church of Our Lady of Miracles, around 2 km from the market area, is worth a visit if you happen to be in Mapusa. Also known as St Jerome's, the church dates back to 1594 and has been rebuilt several times. After a fire razed it during the liberation of Goa from the hands of the Portuguese in 1961, the church was reconstructed. One of the most famous shrines of the region is Shree Dev Bodgeshwar Sansthan of Lord Bodgeshwar. It is located on the city's outskirts amid rice fields and draws thousands of devotees for its annual jatra (procession). In the heart of the city is Maruti Temple, which was constructed in 1840s with Lord Hanuman as the presiding deity. Mapusa makes for a great stopover when visitors are heading to the beaches of Calangute, Baga, Candolim and Anjuna. Margao Touted as the commercial capital of Goa, Margao has a delightful collection of Portuguese churches and residential buildings. It is often called Margaon or Madgaon and is the second-largest city in the state of Goa by population. It attracts not just businessmen for its excellent trade and commerce facilities but also draws tourists for its splendid architecture and the nearby Colva Beach. At the entrance of the city, visitors are greeted by the Largo de Igreja, or the Church of the Holy Spirit. Built by the Portuguese in 1675, it is one of the most beautiful examples of late-Baroque architecture in the state. At the heart of Margao lies the Praça Jorge Barreto, also known as the Municipal Garden, around which are located an array of restaurants and offices. By-lanes from here lead to the bazaar, Margao's main market area. Once a major religious centre with a number of wealthy temples and dharamshalas, Margao is apparently a Portuguese corruption of the word 'Mathgram', which is broken into two - 'math' meaning a Hindu religious centre and 'gram' meaning village. Margao has some wonderful remnants of Portuguese architecture with shady balcaos (porches) and oyster-shell windows. Mayem Lake Calling the Bicholim Taluka in North Goa its home, Mayem Lake is a popular picnic spot nestled amidst the scenic vistas of a sleepy Goan hamlet. Surrounded by hills carpeted by thick forests, it hosts a line of vendors along the banks, selling delectable snacks, refreshing coconut water and trinkets. The placid waters of Mayem Lake are ideal for boating and the Goa Tourism Development Corporation runs the Mayem Lake Resort, which offers inexpensive accommodation in dormitories and self-contained cottages. Popular attraction nearby include the Corjuem Fort, Rudreshwar Temple, the residence and the chapel of the erstwhile Count of Mayem etc. En route to this place is a small water fountain that was constructed in 1927 and as indicated by the plaque, supplied water to the residents. Miramar Beach Located approximately 3 km away from Panaji, this gorgeous urban beach is situated near the estuary of River Mandovi as it opens into the Arabian Sea. One of the most popular beaches in the state, it draws a lot of tourists and locals to its sandy shores every day. It also offers a stunning view of the Aguada Bay across the river. It was originally named Porta de Gaspar Dias by the Portuguese. If you happen to be around Miramar Beach, visit the Cabo Raj Bhavan Hillock, which is famous for adventure activities, especially water sports. You can purchase souvenirs to take back home from numerous shops lined up at one corner of the beach. Naguesh Temple Located about 25 km from the state capital, this temple is dedicated to Lord Naguesh, known as Lord Nagnath in ancient times, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The area surrounding the temple is known as Nagueshi. The temple boasts colourful images of gods and goddesses around the base of the deepstambha (lamp tower) and an ancient water reservoir, which is surrounded by palm trees. The reservoir has been constructed in such a manner that by standing at a particular point around it, one can clearly view the reflection of Lord Naguesh's idol and the lit lamps in the inner sanctum. A stone plaque near the temple dates back to the year 1413. The temple houses stone idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, along with that of Lord Ganesha that date back to the 7th and 8th centuries. Naval Aviation Museum One of the two military museums in the country, the Naval Aviation Museum, in Goa, was inaugurated in 1998. It is the only aviation museum in Asia. The chief attractions of the place are displays of Indian aircraft that were used in the history of the Navy. These are displayed in an open-air gallery outside the museum. The interior of the museum has been built to look like the inside of a naval aircraft carrier. Several galleries display naval equipment, a simulation room and exhibits from prominent battles. Our Lady Of Immaculate Conception Church Located in the state capital of Panaji, Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church is believed to have been originally built as a chapel in 1541, to serve the religious requirements of the Portuguese sailors. The chapel eventually became a parish in 1600 and nine years later, it was replaced by a church. Its symmetrical zigzag stairway was constructed in the 18th century. The church is believed to have been modelled after the Bom Jesus de Braga in Portugal, with one middle and four side landings in perfect symmetry. The statue of Our Lady was installed on a 5-m-high plinth on the middle landing in 1954. The church also houses an ancient bell obtained from the Augustinian ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Grace. It is considered to be the second largest of its kind in Goa, the largest being the Golden Bell housed in the Se Cathedral. With its white facade displaying Portuguese-Baroque and Goanese styles of architecture, the church has two towers and a looming belfry. Due to the fact that it can be seen from very far away, it is also called the crown of Panaji. One needs to climb 78 steps to reach the church. While the main altar in the church is dedicated to Mother Mary, the other two altars on either side are intricately carved and gold-plated. One of these belongs to the crucifixion of Jesus and the other to Our Lady of the Rosary. Marble statues of St Peter and St Paul flank these two altars. On December 8 every year, the church is illuminated to celebrate the Festival of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception. These celebrations are preceded by nine-day novena to Our Lady. Palolem Beach Just 3 km from the Canacona railway station, now on the Konkan Railway route, Palolem is a white sand beach that overlooks a blue bay. A lot of seaside shacks selling delectable seafood, souvenirs and apparel can be found here. The Rajbag Beach nearby can be visited for some peace and quiet. Panaji Goa's capital, Panaji is located on the banks of River Mandovi and is considered to be one of the country's most relaxed cities. Formerly known as Panjim, the city boasts lovely cafes and restaurants, colonial-era buildings, gorgeous churches and a stunning riverside promenade. The narrow by-lanes of the Latin Quarter are a must-visit to get a taste of the city's Portuguese heritage. Among Panaji's most popular sites are Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, Adil Shah's Palace, which is Goa's oldest surviving building, Mahalaxmi Temple, Chapel of St Sebastian and Maruti Temple. The Goa State Museum is also worth a visit as is the Goa State Central Library. Legend has it that the name 'Panaji' originates from the corrupted version of 'Ponjy', which means the land that never floods. Panjim was once a small village with creeks, coconut trees and vast fields and the inhabitants were mostly fishermen. It remained so for centuries with the Fort of Adil Shah along River Mandovi being the only recognisable structure. It was in 1632 that a 3.2 km causeway was constructed by the then viceroy, Count de Linhares, Dom Miguel de Noronha, which linked Panjim with Ribandar Village, 50 km from the city. Back then, it was the lon Reis Magos The quaint hamlet of Reis Magos (meaning three wise men) is home to two famous landmarks: the Reis Magos Fort and the Reis Magos Church. The fort of Reis Magos was built in 1551 and is listed under the Goa Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act. Located on the banks of River Mandovi, the fort is a wonderful example of the confluence of Hindu and Portuguese architectural styles. Surrounded by sturdy laterite walls, it is studded with Portuguese turrets. Once, 33 guns existed here though only seven have been found within the fort complex. During its glorious times, the fort accommodated viceroys and other dignitaries coming from, or going to, Lisbon in Portugal. Initially, it was used as a defence fortress, later a jail and has also served as a hospital in the past. The Reis Magos Church, whose white facade is visible from across the river, was built in 1555 by the Franciscan Friars. Dedicated to St Jerome, the church and its seminary became a famous site for learning, which can be gathered from the Portuguese royal coat of arms imprinted below the crucifix at the top of the gable. On January 6 every year, Reis Magos celebrates the colourful Festa dos Reis Magos, during which locals enact the story of the three kings who went on the journey to worship the holy infant child, Jesus Christ. Safa Masjid Located in Ponda, the Safa Masjid was built in 1560 by Ibrahim Adil Shah, the sultan of Bijapur. It is a huge complex and amongst its ruins are various gardens and fountains that make for a tranquil setting. A pointed terracotta tile roof covers the main rectangular prayer hall of the mosque. The best time to visit here is during the festivities of Id-Ul-Fitr and Id-Ul-Zuha, when it is adorned with exquisite decorations. The most interesting aspect of the Safa Masjid complex is the huge water tank with 44 hammams or hot air baths that dot its four interior sides. The tank has a flight of steps made in typical Hindu bathing style of ghats. Both the tank as well as the mosque have been made in laterite stone masonry. Se Cathedral Dedicated to St Catherine, the 16th century celebrated structure of Se Cathedral is among the most imposing churches in Goa. Due to its sheer scale and stunning design, it is a treat for architecture and photography enthusiasts. Commissioned by Portuguese viceroy, Redondo, the edifice of the church is, in fact, bigger than any of the churches in Portugal as he wanted it to be “a grandiose church worthy of wealth, power and fame of the Portuguese who dominated the seas from the Atlantic to the Pacific.” It was during the reign of king, Dom Sebastiao, that the construction of the church took off and was completed in 1619. Built for the Dominicans, the cathedral was paid for by the Royal Treasury out of the proceeds of the sale of the crown’s property. Built in the Portuguese-Gothic style with a Corinthian interior and Tuscan exterior, the church is one of the oldest of its kind in the state and is believed to be the largest of its kind in Asia. The church’s bell, the largest of its kind in Goa, is popularly called the Golden Bell. Initially, there were two towers on either side of the church’s façade, however, the one on the southern side collapsed in 1776. It was never rebuilt and gives a vintage look to the historic church. The main altar in the church is dedicated to St Alexandria with both its sides depicting scenes from her life. To the left of the main entrance of the church are four chapels that are dedicated to Our Lady of Virtues, St Sebastian, the Blessed Sacrament and Our Lady of Life. A highlight of the cathedral is the Chapel of the Cross of Miracles. The church measures 250 ft in length and 181 ft in breadth. A vision of Jesus Christ is believed to have appeared on the Cross housed therein in 1919. Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple About 35 km from Panaji, in the village of Narve, lies the Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple. It is considered as one of the six temples of Lord Shiva in the Konkan region. An ancient structure, the temple is thronged by devotees of Saptakoteshwar, the deity of the Kadamba dynasty. A number of coins unearthed here mention the deity's name along with that of king Jayeshi of Kadamba dynasty. The most important festival celebrated here is Gokulashtami, which is believed to be the day on which Lord Shiva appeared in this particular incarnation to answer the prayers of seven pious sages. Legend behind the name Saptakoteshwar is that seven holy sages started praying to Lord Shiva near the region where five holy rivers merged with the sea. For seven crore years, they kept praying and when Lord Shiva appeared to grant wishes, he promised to stay back in one of his incarnations, sapkoteshwar (sapt meaning seven and koteshwar meaning lord of crores). Shri Shantadurga Temple Located in Sangolda in Bardez taluka, the beautiful temple of Shree Shantadurga, who was known as Santeri Devi, is dedicated to the deity who mediated between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. It is said that so fierce was the battle that Lord Brahma prayed to Goddess Parvati to intervene. She did so in the form of Shantadurga and placed Lord Vishnu on her right hand and Lord Shiva on her left to settle the fight. The temple complex in Sangolda has an impressive idol of the goddess, which is flanked by idols of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Highlights of the temple include a huge tank, a deepastambha and agrashalas (guest houses). The temple is thronged by devotees throughout the year, especially during the annual jatra (procession) celebrated in the month of November/ December. Other famous festivals celebrated include Navratra, Mahashivratri, Ganesh Jayanti and the monthly, Palakhi. St Cajetan's Church One of the most picturesque churches in Goa, this beautiful structure is located in Old Goa, near the Se Cathedral. Built in 1665 by Italian monks of the Order of Theatines, St Cajetan's Church is a fine example of Corinthian architecture. Niched within the external facade are four stunning statues of St Paul, St Peter, St John the evangelist and St Matthew. The interior, also featuring Corinthian elements, displays Baroque, Rococo and Goan influences in gilded work. The main altar of the church is dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence. Originally called The Church of Our Lady of Divine Providence, the building of the church is constructed of laterite blocks that have been lime-plastered. The church’s façade has two towers on both sides that serve as belfry. On entering the church, one finds three altars on the left that are dedicated to the Holy family, Our Lady of Piety and St Clare. To the right are the altars of St John, St Cajetan and St Agnes. The largest of the altars on the right is dedicated to St Cajetan himself. Vagator Beach Among Goa's most photographed beaches, Vagator Beach is a crescent-shaped paradise situated on the Caisua Bay along River Chapora. A favourite venue for parties by the sea at night during the peak tourist season, it also overlooks the Chapora Fort perched atop a hillock. Sinquirim Beach Located on the outskirts of Panaji, Sinquerim Beach is one of the best beaches in Goa for water sports enthusiasts. It features world-class facilities for activities such as water-skiing, scuba diving, parasailing and wind-surfing. Sinquerim is an ideal beach for a long walk along the seaside, its firm sand stretching all the way up to Baga. Arambol Beach Beautiful and peaceful, Arambol Beach, also known as Harmal Beach, is particularly popular with international travellers. You'll find a number of tai chi, yoga and meditation centres along with kiosks for non-permanent henna tattoos here. Sunsets are especially picturesque, with black rocks creating a dramatic effect against the pristine sand and the multi-hued sky. A pool of yellow clay, a short walk away, is believed to possess healing properties.
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