Goa, located in the western part of India, is one of the most delightful states in India. Quite different from the sates of India Goa has rightly earned the sobriquet of the "beach capital of the world” thanks to several beautiful beaches found in the state.

The smallest Indian state in terms of area, Goa occupies an area of 3,702 sq km. The state is bounded by the Arabian Sea on the west, Maharashtra on the north and Karnataka on the south. Goa not only offers idyllic sandy beaches but also impressive sights like forts, churches and temples. From pristine sandy beaches to the stunning waterfalls, architectural sights including historical forts including Aguada Fort and Terekhol Fort, churches, caves, temples and mosques, this western state of India offers a wealth of tourist attractions.

The greatest draw of Goa is undeniably its glorious beaches and stunning coral reefs, but those in the know make time to head inland where they can discover other attractions.

Situated at the mouth of the Mandovi River, Panaji, the capital of Goa, is laid-back town that is famous for its beautiful colonial architecture of Portuguese era. Built in 1541, Church of the Immaculate Conception is an example of the Portuguese baroque style.

Formerly a Portuguese colony, Goa is home to renowned bird sanctuary named Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary which is the habitat of more than 400 species of avian population, both resident and migratory. Other premier destinations of wildlife enthusiasts are Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary and Bondla Forest.

Arvalem Waterfalls, Dudhsagar Waterfalls near Colem, Mayem Lake and Kesarval Spring are the natural wonders of Goa.

Goa is rightly regarded as one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in the world, attracting many couples every year. Truly a paradise for honeymooners, Goa offers countless choice of attractions and activities to the newly weds.

When you have had your share of the laid back, get ready for some action. Adventure activities that can be enjoyed in a trip to Goa are snorkeling, swimming, sailing, kayaking, water skiing and jet skiing.

If you are historically minded and have love for museums, archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, Museum of Christian Art, Wax World Museum, Galleries at Se Cathedral, St. Francis of Assisi and Bom Jesus, Goa State Museum, The Customs & Central Excise Museum, The Big Foot Museum, Art Gallery, Cross Museum & Local Handicrafts Centre Calliz Museum, Vintage Car Museum, Xavier Centre of Historical Research, Gallery Attic, Gallery Gitanjali, Picturesque Gallery are some of the famous museums & art galleries of Goa. The vibrancy of Goa attains its zenith in the annual Goa carnival festival. Great shopping also beckons in every part of the state of Goa.

How to reach Goa

Dabolim airport of Goa is well connected by major airlines with major cities in India. Madgaon, Vasco-da-Gama, Tivim and Karmali railway stations of Goa are well connected by trains with major cities and places in India. Panaji, Mapusa, Margao, and other main cities of Goa are well connected by road with different places in India. Some of the cities and places connected with Panaji by road are Karwar 103 Km., Amboli (104 km), Malwan (150 km), Belgaum (157 km)., Gokarn (154 km), Hubli (184 km), Kolhapur (246 km), Ratnagiri 263 km, Jog Falls 274 km, Miraj 297 Km), Badami (312 Km), Hospet (350 km), Bijapur (360 km). Mangalore (371 km), Mahabaleshwar (425 km), Mumbai (594 km), Bangalore (598 km), Nashik (669 km), Mysore (696 km), Hyderabad (698 km), Aurangabad (706 km), Daman (787 km), Kochi (833 km), Diu (1536 km), Pandharpur (462 km), Pune (458 km) and Shirdi (664 km).

Where to stay in Goa

If a tourist wants to visit in style and enjoy the comforts of a luxury hotel with wonderful service or if the tourist is visiting on a budget and looking for a cheap hotel, once in Goa a tourist can find accommodation to suit their taste.

Goa History

Goa was part of the part of the Mauryan Empire, founded by Chandragupta Maurya. It later came under the control of Satavahanas and Chalukyas. The territory became successively part of the Silharas, the Kadambas and the Chalukyas of Kalyani, who ruled Deccan India at various points of time.

In 1312, Goa came under the control of the Delhi Sultanate. However, the Sultanate’s authority was challenged and consequently the territory became part of the Vijayanagara empire., the powerful Hindu kingdom of South India. Later Goa passed into the hands of the Bahmani Sultanate.

In 1510, the Portuguese under Albuquerque defeated the ruling Adilshahi Sultan of Bijapur and captured Goa. A large portion of people inhabiting Goa were converted to Christianity by the Portuguese. Goa became part of the British India between 1812-1815.

After India attained independence in 1947, Portugal refused to transfer the sovereignty of their Indian settlements to India . As a result India had to launch military campaign and on 12 December 1961, the Indian army annexed the territories of Goa, Damman and Diu into the Indian union. Goa, along with Daman and Diu was declared Union Territory of India. On 30 May 1987, Goa attained statehood while Daman and Diu remained Union Territories.

Motorcycle Hire

Renting a motorcycle to explore Goa is great fun for those travelling to this western state of India. With some of the finest beaches in the world, beautiful churches, temples, there are plenty of places to explore in this western state of India. What better way to enjoy the landscape than a leisurely motorcycle ride.

Goa is ideal for exploration by Motorcycle. You can rent a motorbike from Motorbike rental shops, hotels and resorts that offer motorbike hire. The you can find motorcycle anywhere in Goa, it is in the essential fitness of things that you should do this through your hotels, resorts, guesthouses or the places where you are putting up.

Even if don’t have license, in Goa you will find many motorcycle pilots.

The rental prices for motorcycles in Goa depend on the motorbike’s brand as well as the rent duration. While a one-day rent with a private license plate will be in the range of Rs 200 to Rs 300, the government-approved motorcycle will cost you from Rs 250 to Rs 500 a day.

It is also advisable to negotiate for lower price. Normally, the renters rent out motorbikes such as Bajaj Pulsar, Yamaha FZ, TVS Appachi, Honda Activa and Suzuki Access. Riders will have to deposit their original passport, driving license or other recognised photo ID.

Ensure the motorcycles are in good condition. It is better to hire a bike with insurance. Otherwise you will have to pay for the repairing the damage which may be done to the bike.

Packages to Goa

Goa holiday packages offer the excellent opportunity to explore the wonderful tropical paradise of Goa in a planned way. The Goa holiday packages will make the visitors feel why this beautiful state is being admired by hordes of tourists visiting the state.

On their holiday packages in Goa the visitors come in close contact with the scenic landscape and natural treasures of the land including majestic waterfalls, lovely colonial buildings and of course the loveliest beaches in the world.

Goa is one of the most popular travel destinations for holidays with some of the best beaches in the world.The beautiful coral reef near the beaches makes Goa an ideal place for exciting water sports such as snorkeling. Spend your most wonderful beach holiday at Goa and at the same time remember to explore the fascinating natural treasures of the state with cosmopolitan capital city, Panaji.

Holiday packages for Goa must include a visit to the churches, temples and museums.

When you travel to Goa, make a visit to the capital city of Panaji. On your travel to Goa visit the fascinating waterfalls. The beaches of Goa are decked with beautiful white sand and dazzling blue water.

Goa tours holiday packages can offer the visitor a glimpse of the history of the state with a visit to the forts. Goa holiday travel packages will be incomplete without your visit to the beautiful shops and the cozy restaurants of Goa with delectable cuisines.