Situated in the western part of India, Goa is a dream destination for many. Despite being the smallest state of India by area, Goa is one of the richest in natural and cultural beauty. Enclosed by the Arabian Sea in the west coast, Goa is well known for its seductive beaches, hospitable people, historical monuments, crazy parties and stunning vistas. [break]
Water sports and sunbaths are the first things that come to the mind when one thinks of Goa. It may sound difficult to extricate oneself from the mesmerizing clutches of the sand; nevertheless, those who manage to do so are rewarded with the ticket into the amazing world of a diverse variety of flora and fauna. Goa is rich in biodiversity since over 20% of Goa’s jungle interior is classified as national parkland home to exotic wildlife and bird species.
Photos Courtesy: Prianka Rauniyar
Nature has been kind to Goa in terms of its lands and waters. However, the delicacies of Goa do not just end at this point. Goa offers its fair share of cultural heritage sites in the form of temples, churches, libraries and museums to cater to the tastes of those with an artistic bend of mind.
And for those party animals who wish to swing their hips to the party numbers and feel the booze – the cashew brew called Feni is the celebrated native brand of the islands – rushing through their veins, Goa is one of the best options on earth.
Weather
In September, the bars and discos are just beginning to open. The sea will be rough and you can expect some downpours but usually they are over very quickly. That being said, Goa is beautiful all round the year and any season would be a good time to step into this emerald paradise.
Trip highlights
Beaches
Baga would be the perfect destination for water sports like windsurfing, jetskiing or just swimming. If you want to hang with the hippies, Arambol is your perfect catch. If you just want to be alone for a while, Agonda or Patnem might be the beaches for you.
Churches
One of the most interesting buildings in Old Goa is the Convent and Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, built in 1521. Just opposite is the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the preserved remains of the body of Saint Frances Xavier, a revered missionary and the patron saint of Goa. The body is shown to the public every 10 years.
Wildlife and waterfalls
Bhagwan Mahavir and Cotigao are the two major sanctuaries. On the periphery of the Mollem National Park is the magnificent Dudhsagar Falls, where the water rages down from a huge height.
Spice plantations
Goa’s tropical climate and dense forests make it a fertile land for cultivation of spices. The spice farms are open to visitors. One of the most famous plantations is Savoi Plantation, reached by a charming drive through intense jungles and hills from Ponda.
Goan cuisine
Fish, rice and coconut are the major cuisines of Goa. Coconut milk and “kokum,” a kind of fruit, are an integral part of the Goan platter. Red chilies, vinegar, tamarind and chutneys are good in Goa. The Goan way of dining is heavily dominated by non-vegetarian food, given its large variety of seafood, fishes, chicken, sausage and prawns. However, vegetarians can also tantalize their taste buds with delicacies prepared out of lentils, vegetables, gourd, pumpkins, shoots, bamboo and roots.
Trip essentials
A valid passport or citizenship card is essential while traveling. Also, it is important not to forget a good large bottle of sunscreen if you don’t want to return from your escapade resembling a burnt potato. Clothes and luggage are best if they are kept light. And if you are good at bargaining, you can get some really good deals at the local market itself. It is best to go for flip flops and large iconic hats. And of course, do not forget your camera!
Travel costs per person:
Via air
Kathmadu-Delhi-Goa-Kathmandu: Nepali Rs 35,000
Kathmadu-Bombay-Goa-Kathmandu: Nepali Rs 38,000
Via train
Gorakhpur-Bombay-Goa: Nepali Rs 7,500
Accommodations
Hotel tariffs range between Nepali Rs 16,000 to 30,000
Domestic transportation
Cars, buses or vans are easily available, depending upon the number of people and budget.
Information provided by: Abhiwadan Holidays Pvt. Ltd.
Contact: 01-4386589, 9851181001, 9851181005
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