A tiny state on the west coast of India, Goa is most famous among its frequent Indian as well as European and American tourists as a party destination in India. All things sun, sand, and beaches, Goa is typically tropical, with a culture that is a unique mix of Portuguese and Indian influences. Its Portuguese influence is strikingly visible in its baroque architecture, whitewashed churches, grand cathedrals, and decrepit forts. ‘Susegad,’ a concept roughly meaning ‘contented living,’ is associated with Goa and can be lived and experienced here unlike anywhere else in India.
Apart from its all-night parties, Goa is a leisure-heaven for lovers of peace and tranquillity. Its many narrow lanes covered with picturesque colonial architecture on both sides make for a soothing walk during the afternoons. Goa is also home to two World Heritage Sites—the Bom Jesus Basilica and the churches and convents of Old Goa. Other major sight-seeing places include the Santa Monica Convent, Mater Dei Church, Shanta Durga Temple, Reis Magos Fort, Goa State Museum and the Naval Aviation Museum among others. Quintessentially Goan, beaches like Baga, Calangute among others, offer thrilling water experiences like jet-skiing, parasailing, water scooter rides and more. These beaches are also famous for their shacks, or cafes that play hypnotic music and serve a wide variety of exquisite Goan and international cuisine. Being a coastal state, Goa’s culinary culture includes a fair amount of seafood. Rice with fish curry being a staple diet across the state, other flavoursome dishes such as Vindaloo and Sorpotel—both pork based, are favourites among epicures. An egg based sweet dish known as bebinca is the state’s favourite during Christmas—also the liveliest time of the year in Goa.
Explore the sun-kissed beaches and the wonderful architecture of Goa with Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts and Safaris.