If you talk about ultimate winter sun destination in India,
Goa is an undoubted name to be mentioned on the list. The picturesque backdrop,
including palm-fringed beaches, rosy Arabian Sea sunsets and coconut trees, make
it the perfect destination to relax and enjoy in winter. Apart from the beaches
in Goa, in the interiors of the state lies a fascinating world of Portuguese
heritage, historical monuments, Hindu temples, and wildlife. Here are some of
the enticing tourist attractions in Goa to allure you to get off the
sun-lounger.
Beaches
Beaches mark the identity of the state. There are about 22
beaches altogether in North and South Goa. Some of the popular beaches to visit
are Baga, Anjuna, Bambolim, Cavelossim, Palolem, Varca, Colva, Morjim, Dona
Paula, and many more. Some of the beaches are best known for trance parties,
lively shacks and water sports, etc. Additionally, Goa also features some
private beaches where visitors can spend some time in solitude.
Mangrove Forests
& Birds
The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, named after the ‘bird man of
India’, Dr. Salim Ali, is a paradise for nature and bird lovers. This bird
sanctuary could be reached via a short ferry ride (30 min) from Ribander, located
close to Panaji. The visitors can spot beautiful birds, such as herons, black
drongos, mudskippers, etc., amidst the cool, calm mangroves & marshes. The
wildlife here features flying foxes and crocodiles. The winter months are the best
time to visit the sanctuary as the visitors can spot various migratory and
native birds in the sanctuary.
Spice Farms
Spices are the major attribute of Indian culinary delights.
Sahakari Spice Farm, sprawled over an area of 130 acre, is a popular feature in
tours to Goa and to know more about the pungent spices. Upon arrival, before
being guided through the rows of guava, jackfruit, mango, pineapple and papaya,
lemongrass tea is served for the guests. Through the guided tour, the visitors
come to know about the story of how cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, and curry leaves
are farmed and grown. The long walks may be tiresome for little kids. There
also are on-site shops that sell fresh spices and oils, which the guests can
buy as gifts and souvenirs for friends and family.
Bondla Wildlife
Sanctuary
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit in Goa as it
features botanical garden, zoo and exotic wildlife in a single platter. Among
the attractions of the sanctuary, the collection of mythological Hindu
sculptures on-site is also a must visit as it is said to be mysteriously
discovered during the construction of gardens. There are about 100 different
species of birds found along with Sambar deer, Black Giant squirrel, Indian
bison, Indian Peafowl and snakes. To make the trip an exciting vacation, the
guests could opt for elephant rides in the afternoon. Please note that some
attractions of the sanctuary, such as Deer Park, are closed on a Thursday.
The small Indian state, Goa was under the influence of
Portuguese for almost 450 years. The culture, food, people, structures, etc.,
all reflect the charm of old-world. Moreover, there also are numerous churches
that are designed according to the Gothic style of architecture. Some of the
popular churches in Goa are Basilica of Bom Jesus, Convent and Church of St
Francis of Assisi, Church of Our Lady of Miracles, Church of St Cajetan, etc.
During the time of feasts and festivals, there are special mass prayers and
processions carried.
A Visit To Ancestral
Goa
In the inner regions of Goa, there are numerous colonial
mansions, which date to the 17th century. If the guests intend to explore the
old-world colonial charm of Goa, Chandor (15km from Margao) is the best village
to visit. In this village, the Braganza House is open to the public and provides
the glimpse of the luxurious lifestyle of the colonial landlords. The house
features Italian marble walls & flooring, and Belgian & Chinese Porcelain
chandeliers, which adorn the beauty of the house. Loutolim is again another
attraction in Goa to witness the colonial charm of Goa. Here, Ancestral Goa is
an open-air theme park, which was designed by Goan artist, Maendra J. Alvares. The
park features a miniature of a Goan village. India’s longest laterite
sculpture, Saint Mirabai, is also featured here along with different highlights
depicting colonial influence in Goan culture.
Cotigao Wildlife
Sanctuary
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1969 with the
motive to protect the isolated jungle forest strip. The sanctuary is spread
over an area of 85 km and at a distance of 10 km east of Chaudi. The 2nd
largest sanctuary in Goa features thick vegetation, which at times makes it
difficult for the visitors to spot timid & rare animals, such as flying
squirrel, Indian pangolin, four-horned antelope, slender loris, mouse deer, etc.
Here, the visitors can also spot the tallest trees of Goa, which stretch to
about 30 m. The best time to visit the sanctuary is November or December.
Shopping
For the shopping spree, Goan markets are best to be
explored. Right from the street markets to upscale shopping complexes, there
are numerous options to shop for some exclusive commodities from Goa. Some of
the major markets in Goa are Anjuna Flea Market, MMC New Market, New Municipal
Market, Mapusa Market, Glastonbury Street, Street Stalls, etc. These feature
beautiful handicrafts and artifacts that could be purchased as souvenirs and
gifts for those at home.
For visitors from all parts of the globe, Goa has excellent
accommodation facility to meet the personal preferences. There also are tour
operators, who specialize in offering
Goa hotel packages to ensure a comfortable
and memorable accommodation in Goa. Along with touring, do not miss to
tantalize your taste buds with authentic Goan delicacies served at various small
and upscale restaurants in Goa.
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