Introduction
Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt which is called Konkan. It is popularly known as the 'Pearl Of the Orient' and the 'Tourist Paradise'. Goa's spectacular beauty, harmonious churches, palm fringed trees, its silver coastline and its unsurpassed beaches, which have been accepted as a matter of life, make this place blue-eyed with travellers all over the world. Goa is flooded with a cluster of arresting scenic beauty, beaches lying in wait for tourists who wish to savor the green palms, the golden sand and the impelling surf. Holiday in Goa will offer you countless opportunities to enjoy yourself.


Quick Facts
Location : Situated on Malabar coast
State capital : Panaji
Area : 3,702 sq,km
Trip Highlights : sandy beaches and calm churches
Ideal time to visit : November - March
Languages : Konkani, Marathi, English and Hindi
STD Code : 0832
Climate : Summer (Max - 33 ºC) & Winter (Min - 19 ºC)
Best Time : November to March

Goa Air/Rail/Road Links

Airport :	The Dabolim airport in Goa is well connected to India and has an extremely accessible air route.
Railway Station :	It is very easy to go Goa by trains, especially after the emergence of Konkan railway. Goa's two main railway stations Margao and Vasco Da Gama connect to all major cities of India.
Bus Station :	Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka state transport corporations operate from Panaji Kadamba bus stand. You can hire buses as well as taxis as per your convenience.

Tourist Attractions in Goa
Panaji
Situated on the southern banks of the Mandovi river, Panaji became the capital of Goa in 1843. It is renowned with many beautiful churches, buildings and red roofed houses with stucco walls built in Latin style.

Dona Paula
It is located 7 kms from Panjim. Linked with a romantic myth, this beach is the most popular one among others. It endeavours an opening to the tourists to have a sun bath and buy cheap seaside goods from local hawkers. The official residence of the Governor of Goa is worth seeing.

Old Goa
Old Goa is only 9 kms away from Panaji. This place is crammed with beautiful churches. It was dissipated by the Portugese officially in 1843 when the capital was moved to Panjim.

Anjuna Beach
Located 18 kms from Panaji, it is a perfect haven for hippies. It's beauteous running white waves mingling with golden sand look mind-boggling. It is very popular for rave parties or you can say that these parties give a new meaning to Goa's night life.

Shopping Centres in Goa
For tourists in Goa, the stay is not complete until and unless they take back home a souvenir of this magnificent place. The excellent handicrafts of Goa are the most popular souvenir items. The famed cashew nuts of Goa, brass ware, terracotta, shell work, carved furniture and bamboo work are some of the must buys of Goa. However, it is advised to buy everything from Govt emporia. Some of the markets and areas to shop from are –

Mapusa area
Anjuna area
Wednesday Flea Market of Anjuna

Famous Hotels in Goa
Hotels in Goa, like the prevailing mood of Goa are the targets of fun filled evenings, full of dance, music and delectable food. Most of the fine hotels of Goa have their on created beaches and a leisurely day, bathing in the sun is a perfect definition of holidaying in Goa.

Getaways
These places are specially for those who want to get away from work or wish to do something else than Goan beaches. These are must watch if you visit Goa.

Kankavali - 120 north of Panjim
Terekhol Fort - 70 kms from Panjim