About Goa Tourism

Tourism is generally focused on the coastal areas of Goa, with decreased tourist activity inland. In 2004 there were more than 2 million tourists reported to have visited Goa, 4, 00,000 of which were from abroad. Renowned for its beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture, Goa is visited by hundreds of thousands of international and domestic tourists each year. It also has rich flora and fauna, owing to its location on the Western Ghats range, which is classified as a biodiversity hotspot.

The Western Ghats, which form most of eastern Goa, have been internationally recognized as one of the biodiversity hotspots of the world. Goa's wildlife sanctuaries boast of more than 1512 documented species of plants, over 275 species of birds, over 48 kinds of animals and over 60 genera of reptiles. Goa has many famous National Parks & wildlife sanctuaries which include the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Mollem National Park, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Madei Wildlife Sanctuary, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary located on the island of Chorao.

Goa has two main tourist seasons: winter and summer. In the winter time, tourists from abroad come to Goa to enjoy the splendid climate. In the summertime, tourists from across India come to spend the goa vacations. Recently I spend my winter vacation in Agonda Goa – one of the most picturesque scenic beaches in south goa.

This tiny state is situated on the west coast of India, between the borders of Maharashtra and Karnataka and is better known to the world as the former Portuguese enclave on Indian soil. With the rule of the Portuguese for over 450 years and the consequential influence of the Latin culture, Goa presents a somewhat different picture to the foreign visitor than any other part of the country. The state of Goa is famous for its excellent beaches, churches, and temples. The Bom Jesus cathedral is another famous attraction in Goa India. The Fort Aguada too is a major tourist attraction. Recently a Wax Museum on Indian history, culture and heritage has also opened in Old Goa.

Goa is world famous for its beaches, its ancient temples and churches, and its Goan carnival. If naval aviation interests you, you might want to stop by the Naval Air Museum. This is behind the Dabolim Airport, and you will need to loop around the airport perimeter across the Dabolim Railway station to get there.

Beaches

The one reason to visit Goa is its beaches. About 125 km of the coast line is dotted with beaches. These beaches are divided into North Goa and South Goa Beaches. The further north or south you go, the more isolated the beaches get. However, if you're looking for people, and then visit some of the more popular beaches like Baga and Anjuna. These beaches are lined with shacks that provide fresh sea food and drinks. Some shacks arrange special events to attract more customers. Beaches like Anjuna, Palolem, Agonda, Patnem, Mober, Vagator, Morjim, Mandrem, Candolim & Sinquerim, Colva, Calangute, Baga and many other beaches to mention. The scenic beauty of each beach of Goa is really mind blowing and mesmerizing.