GOA

The Beach Capital of India

There was a time when the sole reason people worked was to earn money so they could save it up to secure their kid’s future. But the times have changed drastically. Today’s modern man earns money for himself and spends it on himself and the first thing that pops up in the mind when he thinks of self-care is TRAVEL. No one ever travels just because they have to spend their money, but because those travels are extremely meaningful. A trip is supposed to soothe you and rejuvenate your mind in every way possible. 

One of the most favorite tourist destinations of India is GOA. Goa is an Indian state with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea. It is known for its nightlife, the beaches, and most importantly its weather. As of October 2020, Goa is the 11th best tourist destination in the world. No wonder tourists from all over the world crowd the streets of Goa all year round. You combine the scenic beach views and the extravagant nightlife and you have got yourself a hell of a vacation.

For first time travelers, here’s a guide of everything that Goa has to offer:

1. Breathtaking Beaches: Goa is definitely the Beach capital of India. The state stretches along 100 km of the Arabian coastline and thus has around 35 beaches each with a spectacular view and its own calming vibe. Some of the more famous beaches include the Calangute & Candolim beach, Vagator beach, Arambol, and the tourist favorite The Baga beach.
2. Mouth-watering Food: If you enjoy experimenting with different cuisines, then you are in for a treat. Goan cuisine is mainly seafood-centric. Rice and fish are the staple food of natives of Goa. All tourist restaurants across the state offer variety of food items with their own touch of spice. You can experiment as much as you want and if you are not much of a risk-taker, you can enjoy your native cuisines at any restaurant and feel like you are home.

3. Adventure activities: Goa is famous for its water sports. Surfing, deep-sea diving, snorkeling, kayaking, flyboarding, parasailing, you name it and they have got it. More fun activities include paragliding, trekking, hiking, camping, bungee jumping, etc. All these activities will really get that adrenaline pumping.

4. Night Life: Goa is the beach capital and the party capital of India. During the night time, the beaches are full of tourists dancing and singing to the tunes played by the DJ. There is fun and enjoyment for as far as the eye can see. Each beach has its own different vibe to offer. The streets are always crowded with people irrespective of what time of night it is. 

5. Historic Sites: Goa is not only about the scenery, the parties, or the beaches, it is also historically significant. Goa was once ruled by the Portuguese for over 450 years. It was later liberated and recognized as a state in India in1961. Some of the major historical sites in Goa include:
Aguada Fort: This fort was built by the Portuguese and it has to offer some of the most beautiful scenery. Many Bollywood movies have been shot at the fort and let’s face it who doesn’t want to experience those ‘Di Chahta Hai’ feels.
The Churches: One word that would accurately describe the Churches of Goa is magnificent. Each one tells a different story and all of them are worth knowing. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Se Cathedral, Church of Our Lady of the Mount, Santa Cruz Church, are some of the churches you can visit on your first trip and get a taste of history.
The Temples: For all those who are spiritual and enjoy visiting holy sites to replenish themselves, Goa is the place for you too. Having a history as old as almost 500 years, there are various temples, churches, and masjids. Some of the most eye-pleasing and soul-soothing temples one must visit are Mangeshi Temple, Shanta Durga Temple, Mahadev Temple, Chandreshwar Boothnath Temple, Brahma Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple, and Kamakshi Temple.
Other forts: Other than the Aguada fort, there are other sites one can visit if they wish to explore the entire state in one trip. Some of the other forts include Chapora Fort, Tiracol Fort, Reis Magos Fort, Cabo de Rama Fort, Corjuem Fort.

6. Dudhsagar Falls: Dudhsagar falls is a breathtaking waterfall located 60kms from Goa. This place is a must-visit for everyone who is planning their first trip to the state. The sound of the water falling and birds chirping around in the forest is exactly what you need to experience before you end your trip. Every aspect of that place makes the trip worth it. The best time to visit the falls is around monsoon when the milky white water is gushing down the hill.

7. Shopping: Last but not the least, Goa has a lot to offer to the people who love to shop. The streets are filled with little shops where you can find clothes, decorative items, or souvenirs to remember the trip.

If you plan to visit Goa, all you need to do is spend a week there and you will find yourself craving to come back every year. However, it does not matter where you travel as long as you can appreciate everything that place has to offer. Travel before it is too late. Travel and let your mind feel the joy.

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” ~ Saint Augustine