Goa - Carnival

Welcome to Goa Carnival 2011

2011-03-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

King Momo rocks Goa with carnival chants

2011-03-07T10:12:00.001-08:00

Thousands of revellers throng the streets with traditional fervour
Hundreds of thousands of merry makers, including foreign and Indian tourists, lined up on the streets in the capital city of Panaji last weekend to celebrate the festival of Carnival in the former Portuguese colony of Goa. The four-day (March 5-8) festival of fun and frolic was greeted with great pomp, joy and traditional fervour with men, women and children in colourful dresses with singing and dancing to the drum beats of Konkani and Portuguese folk songs.

King Momo played by Cezar D’Mello accompanied with his queen and surrounded by a bevy of beauties, pronounced last Saturday his decree to the citizens to “eat, drink and make merry” for four-days in Goa.

“Let the Carnival now begin. It’s the rule of the King Momo in the state. Viva Carnival,” he cried out to the loud beating of drums and wild dancing of merry makers, who had gathered in thousands to cheer King Momo. He then led over 100 colourful magnificent float parade, each loaded with colourful women and men dancers, showcasing a variety of themes. The decree of the King of Fun in Goa ends a day before Ash Wednesday.

The outdoor extravaganza mesmerised the jostling crowds with cameras in hands to capture images of floats, vibrant musical dances, colossal parades, various bands, juggling, clowns, and fancy dress shows. A huge group of masked revellers dressed in dazzling costumes, sang and danced to the tunes of renowned folk music in English, Portuguese and Konkani languages.

Sanjay Srivastava, chief secretary of Goa, flagged off the parade at Patto Bridge.

Goa Carnival - 2011

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Goa Carnival - 2011 (5th March to 8th March)

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The eclectic cultural mix that the Portuguese and local strains create makes Goa unique, a state different from the rest of the states in India. Mingle in the riot of colours! Come to Goa and be a part of the festival of fun, - the Goa Carnival. The Goa Carnival, 2011 will be celebrated from 5th March to 8th March. The festivities and celebrations that continue for three days gift Goa a new life... so jazzy, so lively! The vibrant musical parades and lavish floats floats are the major highlights of the carnival. There is something about it that attracts innumerable visitors from far and wide.

The festive aura fills every corner of the state. Both men and women are elated. They put on fancy clothes and colourful masks and dance to the music that Romans earlier danced on.

Wake up with sounds of cymbals and bagpipers to see the parade making its way through the street. The state capital, Panjim brims with an escapable aroma of overwhelming fun. Live performances and dances that continue till the night add to the celebrations. The Red and Black dance is a perfect way to wind up the Carnival.

Witness a different carnival spirit altogether as you drift towards the villages of Goa. Within the rural areas you will see a group of village dancers 'mell' encircled around an oil lamp, shaking to the beats of the drums. They sing songs praising their ancestors. The loud and fast tempo of drumming makes the dance even more energetic. Doses of fenny increases the fun manifold.

The Goa Carnival is a much-awaited affair in Goa. Its preparations begin from the month of December itself. It is not only music and dance that makes the evenings flashy but some short plays are also composed and enacted.

Goa Carnival is now inseparable from the heritage of the state. The festival brings out the best of the vibrant culture of Goa.

King Momo at Goa Carnival 2009

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Goa Carnival 2009

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Goa Carnival 2009

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Goa Carnival 2009

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Goa Carnival 2009

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Goa Carnival 2009

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Goa Carnival 2009

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Goa Carnival 2009

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Goa Carnival 2009

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Goa Carnival 2009 at Panjim

2009-02-23T06:52:00.000-08:00

Goa Carnival-2009 to begin on February 21 in capital

2009-02-19T03:01:00.000-08:00

The four-day Goa Carnival-2009, an annual fiesta unique to this international destination, attracting thousands of tourists, kicks off on February 21 in the capital city amid tight security.

It is being organised by the Department of Tourism in association with the Goa Tourism Development Corporation(GTDC) for which the government has earmarked Rs 1.5 crore, half of which goes for organising another similar event 'Shigmotsav' later.

Disclosing the festival details to the mediapersons here yesterday, GTDC chairman Shyam Satardekar and vice-chairman Lyndon Monterio said the event would be celebrated mostly in a traditional manner with more involvement of the people.

Due to budgetary constraints, the orgnisers could not include any foreign troupes like the Brazilian group last year.

Goa Carnival and history of celebrations?

2009-02-19T02:31:00.000-08:00

Goa carnival is one of the most enthusiastic celebrations of western style in India. A hot favorite among revellers all around the world, the Goan carnival is known for its riotous merrymaking. You will be entertained thoroughly with beautifully decorated floats, live music and dancing of many ethnic origins. Specialty of this carnival is the rich blend of cultures and religions that is seldom witnessed anywhere else. You will have wide choice of food and drinks including many Indian as well as International cuisines. The land of Sun, Sand and Sea is a treat for beach and sea lovers during this season in particular. Goa carnival normally lasts for a week in the month of February. The exact dates this year will be in the last week of February. The peak time of celebrations will be 21th to 24th February. There will be many carnivals during this time. Mostly as a tradition it is celebrated six weeks prior to the Easter Sunday.
Goa being an erstwhile Portuguese colony has retained the Portuguese tradition of carnivals. So this carnival is classified as a kind of Mardi Grass celebrations. Other carnivals of this kind may be seen in Spain, Portugal and Brazil too which like Goa was once dominated by Spanish/Portuguese. One attribute that sets apart these carnivals form other celebrations is the riotous merrymaking. The Goan version in particular is a favorite among foreign tourists who are known to return to Goa many times afterwards to be a part of the Carnival.

Goa Carnival 2008

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Goa Carnival (Colourful Floats)

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Goa - Panjim Carnival 2008 Floats

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Pictues of Goa Carnival

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Goa Carnival

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Among the many and various colorful feasts and festivals that are celebrated in Goa, the Goa Carnaval is the most eagerly awaited event.

The 'Carnaval’ is exclusive and unique to Goa, and was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled over Goa for over five hundred years.

Although, the three-day festival is primarily celebrated by Christians, it has also absorbed Hindu tradition revelry, western dance forms, and turned into a pageantry of sorts. Though it started as a celebration enjoyed only by the local population, it has today crossed the state frontiers and attracts thousands of people from all over the country.

The carnival is held in February for three days and nights, when the legendary king Momo takes over the state and the streets come alive with music and color. Then begins the weeklong event, which is a time of unbridled festivity and merry-making, which has been celebrated since the 18th Century. Carnival in Goa is a non-stop 3-day festival of color, song and music, providing a healthy entertainment for all, young and old. The soothing climate, full of fun- ‘n’ -frolic, which the Carnival generates, is much longed for.

The carnival is meant to be a feasting-drinking-merrymaking orgy just before the austere 40 days of Lent. Huge parades are organized throughout the state with bands, dances and floats out all night on the streets, and grand balls held in the evenings. The carnival concludes with the famous red-and-black dance held by the Clube National in Panajim on the final day.

Meaning Behind Carnival

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The word ‘carnival’ is said to be derived from the Latin ‘Carne’, meaning meat, and ‘Vale’, which translates to ‘good-bye’. Some also link the word to ‘Carnislevamen’ or ‘the pleasures of meat’, focusing on the enjoyment of meat during the festivities, before the abstinence that follows during Lent.

Another hypothesis suggests that the word came from ‘Carrus Navalis’, the horse-drawn, boat-shaped carriage that was paraded during the Roman festival Saturnalia, in honor of Saturn. It carried men and women in fancy dresses, wearing masks, and singing obscene songs. It is possible that the present-day concept of a carnival emerged from this parade.

Origination Of The Festivity of Goa Carnival

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The Goa Carnival is an integral part of the Portuguese heritage of the state, which was a dominion of Portugal till 1961. The carnival epitomizes the fun-loving culture that is characteristic of Goa. It was introduced by the erstwhile rulers as a rowdy celebration in which flour, eggs, oranges, lemons, mud, sand-filled gloves along with dirty water, various liquids and glue were aimed at passersby. Used pots, pans, and other kitchen utensils were also thrown out of windows. Perhaps this was done to discard the old and the dirty before the Lenten fast.

Fierce battles were waged in the streets, with plaster-of-Paris eggs, wax lemons, corncobs and beans. Blows were dealt out liberally, with brooms and wooden spoons. It was also an occasion for unchecked eating. People gorged on rich food at lavish feasts, and convents distributed cakes and pastries. Though celebrated for only three days, the preparations for the festival would take many days, and build up to a frenetic pitch by the eve of the carnival. The carnival in Goa still retains the core of the original. A King of Chaos is elected, called King “Momo”. He presides over the three-day festivities, which attract visitors from all over India and abroad.

A Musical Extravaganza at Goa Carnival

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Street Plays, songs, dances, and unrehearsed farces mocking the establishment are performed before an enthusiastic, responsive audience. Floats depicting popular lullabies and nursery rhymes make a whimsical and colorful sight on the streets. In the three days of celebrations, cultural functions and competitions abound, and are judged by specially selected people. King Momo distributes the prizes to the winners.

The contestants wear colorful costumes and elaborate masks. Amidst the outrageous dresses seen on the street are some made of sheer, transparent polythene. In the fun-filled ambience, people smear color on each other, instead of the flour, eggs, fruit and water that used to be used in earlier times.

Everyone’s Invited for the Goa Carnival

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In Goan villages, however, the festivities have a more indigenous flavor. Though celebrated by the Christian population of Goa, the carnival’s only relevance to Christianity is that it is celebrated before Lent. The festival today has no religious undertones and has come to be a cultural highlight of the state, rather than of the religion.

Goa Beaches

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The Goa beaches enjoy an unrivaled stature as prime tourist destinations in Goa. So much so that the beaches in Goa have come to symbolize the tourism potential of the state. Miles of unspoiled golden sand, swaying palm trees and the azure waters of the Arabian sea blend to present a breathtaking spectacle in the Goa beaches. In addition to the scenic landscape, the beaches in Goa are also known as shopping hubs, packed as they are with souvenir shops selling momentos and indigenous handicrafts. Moreover there are excellent facilities for a multitude of water sports ranging from parasailing to windsurfing. All these add to the alluring charm of the Goa beaches. Famous beaches in Goa are:

Agonda Beach

Anjuna Beach

Arambol Beach

Calangute Beach

Colva Beach

Dona Paula Beach

Miramar Beach

Palolem Beach

Vagator Beach

Bogmalo Beach

Baga Beach

Chapora Beach

Benaulim Beach

Cavelossim Beach

Majorda Beach

Varca Beach

Velsao Beach

Candolim Beach

Agonda Beach

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Sprawling over a stretch of three kilometers of golden sand

Sunset at Agonda beach

The Agonda beach is a beautiful stretch of land, which is flanked by the ocean on one side and the small hills on the other side. If you are looking forward to some adventure, hire a tent and spend the night camping on the beach, under the starry skies, listening to the crashing of the waves against the shore.

Anjuna Beach

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Just the start of the beach.. looked like Heaven!!

Anjuna Beach, a popular spot with hippies during the glory days of the movement.

Greeny Anjuna Beach

Bright Day at Anjuna Beach, Goa.

Sunset at Anjuna Beach

Goa Anjuna beach is one of the most popular beaches in Goa. The beauty of the white waves rushing to embrace the pale golden sand on the beach can be witnessed in full form at the Goa Anjuna beach.
Goa Anjuna beach is a perfect haven for the hippies and you will come across some of them who have been staying on this beach for a couple of months. It is in the late 1950s to mid-1960s that Anjuna beach was "discovered" by the hippies. From then on began the trend of moonlit parties which is one occasion the hippies and now the tourists look forward to.

Arambol Beach

2009-01-06T09:35:00.000-08:00

Located about 50 km from Panaji, the long and lonely ambience of the Arambol beach provides a soothing contrast to the hustle and bustle of other Northern Goa beaches. If you are yearning for some solitude and tranquility, the Arambol beach with its serene surroundings fits the bill perfectly.

Calangute Beach

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morning nice view

Calangute Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Goa. With it's golden sands it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Goa

Sunset at Calangute Beach

The Calangute Beach, located near Panjim, is famous for being the first beach to inculcate and prosper the hippie culture in the 60's and 70's. The hippies were edged out slowly as the mainstream tourists started to flock Goa in search of peace and enjoyments of a tourist place.

Though the beach is very popular and crowded, the long stretch available to tourists to Goa ensures that everybody gets a place of his own in the crowd. Apart from the regular beach activities, Calangute is also famous for its rave parties which go on for hours, and days sometimes, while the party gang moves from place to place searching for enjoyment.

Colva Beach

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The beautiful Colva beach in South Goa is among the best known tourist attractions in Goa. It is known as the largest among the beaches of south Goa.The white sands of Colva Beach is soft and fine, ideal to walk barefoot anytime day or night. The weather in Goa is very warm and tropical. The best time to visit Colva Beach is from November to July.

Dona Paula Beach

2009-01-05T10:38:00.000-08:00

One of the most well-known among Goa beaches, the Dona Paula beach attracts tourists with its scenic landscape dotted with palm trees and casuarina groves. Locals say that the beach derives its name from Dona Paula de Menzes, who was the daughter of a viceroy during the colonial yoke.

Miramar Beach

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Sunset at Miramar Beach

Located 3 km from Panaji, the Miramar beach is a bustling tourist hub due to its close proximity to the town. Miramar in Portuguese translates to 'viewing the sea,' an apt sobriquet considering the azure waters of the mighty Arabian Sea that expand into the horizon.

Palolem Beach

2009-01-05T10:17:00.000-08:00

The sky romancing the gorgeous ocean at Palolem Beach

One of the prominent beaches in the South Goa beach circuit, the crescent-shaped Palolem beach is well-known for its sweeping expanse of silvery sand and idyllic surroundings. The scenic beauty of the beach fetched it an appearance in the film 'The Bourne Supremacy' (2004) where it is shown as the Indian residence of Jason Bourne (Matt Damon).

Vagator Beach

2009-01-05T09:53:00.000-08:00

Shiva Rock, Vagator Beach

A beautiful carving apparently done by a foreign tourist some 20 years ago is sheer inspiration etched in stone.

About 22 kilometers away from Panaji, Vagator beach is one of the most beautiful beaches of Goa as well as the whole world. Northernmost beach of the Bardez Taluka of Goa, the beach of Vagator is the heaven for nature lovers. Red cliffs, lava rocks, palm groves, coconut trees, white sandy beaches, green villages, fresh water springs—the place in a paradise for the lovers of sun, sea and sand. Vagator beach has become a hot favorite tourist destination among the tourists.

Bogmalo Beach

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Bogmalo is a small fishing village surrounded by two palm-fringed headlands in the northern part of Colva bay. Its claim to fame is a sandy beach at the end of the cove that makes Bogmalo all the more captivating and spectacular. Located 18 kms from the Dabolim airport and 8 kms from Vasco da Gama, Bogmalo beach flaunts a heady mix of serenity and commercialism, coupled with simple beauty where you can cheerfully lose yourself.

The Goa Bogmalo beach is clean and not overcrowded like some other beaches in north Goa. Regardless of recent developments, the village at Bogmalo still manages to retain its original essence.

Baga Beach

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Welcome to Baga Beach!

Sunset at Baga Beach

Baga Beach, situated at a distance of approximately 10 km from Mapusa, is one of the most magnificent beaches of Goa. It is considered to be just an extension of the famous Calangute Beach, but is much less crowded than the latter.

Chapora Beach

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Chapora Beach is counted amongst the most popular as well as the most visited beaches of Goa. It is situated at a distance of approximately 10 km from Mapusa. One of the major attractions of the beach is its boat building and fishing legacy, which seems to be perfectly merged with its booming tourism industry.

Benaulim Beach

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Goa Benaulim beach is a very quiet beach. Benaulim beach in Goa starts where Colva beach ends. The best thing about Goa Benaulim beach is that it is still rather undiscovered by domestic tourists even though it is a famous beach for fishing. Benaulim beach gets fairly crowded in the evenings and on weekends.At Goa Benaulim beach, one can just laze the day off soaking in the sun. Benaulim beach at Goa gives you the pleasure and satisfaction of being in Goa.

Cavelossim Beach

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One of the most popular beaches of Goa, the Cavelossim Beach lies at a distance of approximately 12 km from Benaulim. Not only does it enjoy huge popularity, it is also counted amongst the most beautiful beaches of India.

Majorda Beach

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A fresh water stream at Majorda

The soft sands and aquamarine waters of the Majorda Beach lure tourists from various parts of India as well as abroad. It lies at a distance of approximately 5 km from the Colva Beach and claims as much popularity as the latter.

Varca Beach

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Sunset in the sea on Varca beach

Varca Beach of Goa is situated at a distance of approximately 2 km to the south of the Benaulim Beach. Though the beach is not as popular as the other commercialized beaches in the state, it is not less than any of them in terms of beauty or magnificence.

Velsao Beach

2009-01-02T07:58:00.000-08:00

Waves at Velsao Beach

Sunset at Velsao beach

Velsao Beach of Goa is gaining more and more popularity amongst tourists every year. The beach is situated on the southern coast of the state, at a distance of approximately 25 km from Panjim, its capital city.

Candolim Beach

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Sunset at Candolim Beach

Candolim Beach is situated in the northern side of Goa. It is the perfect place for those who have come on a vacation to forget the tensions of their daily life and intend to spend their time relaxing and rejuvenating.

Goa Adventure Sports

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Goa has been a paradise for the lovers of Adventure and fun. The beaches, parties, music and dance offer a never-ending excitement to the visitor. Goa offers an extremely good climate and excellent facilities for water sports in India. Going by the interests of visitors who come to Goa from different parts of the globe, water sports prexciting way to relax and unwind. There are water sports institutes in almost all the beaches of Goa, which offer training to the beginners. They also provide the equipment required for a particular kind of sport. Safety measures are also followed to keep undesired incidence within control. Major Adventure Sports in Goa are:

Parasailing

Dinghy Sailing

Windsurfing

Water Skiing

Angling

Scuba Diving

Parasailing

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Parasailing can give a high to anyone by a mere thought of it. Parasailing is also called Parascending. In this sport, a parachute is tied to the speed boats. Boats are released in water and the parachute holder starts flying in air. The sight of blue sky around and blue water below is the real essence of this sport. Beaches like Anjuna beach, Baga beach, Condolim beach, Majorda beach, Dona Paula beach offer parasailing options to the adventure lovers.

Dinghy Sailing

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In contrast to the rigorous sport of windsurfing, dinghy sailing provides for a relaxed outing in the seas. Dinghies are 15-feet long crafts that easily accommodate three to four people. Though the thrill of windsurfing is missing, dinghy sailing is perfect for families wanting to surf the seas at a leisurely pace.

Windsurfing

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Struggling against the pace of wind and water, while moving against them at 30 to 40 mph, can give a tough time to anyone. Windsurfing is one such sport, where the real mental as well as physical strength is required to excel. Beaches of Goa have the facility to conduct a session for the visitor. Some of the beaches which are famous for wind surfing in Goa are Anjuna beach, Baga beach and Donapuala beach.

Water Skiing

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Water skiing involves traversing the high seas in speedboats. As these high speed boats skids through the waves, one feels a rush of adrenaline up the spine.

Angling

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The beaches of Goa offer a varied and plentiful, almost inexhaustible, supply to seafood, still incredibly cheap and absolutely fresh. Go to Betul for Goa’s best and largest mussels, brought ashore by expert divers. Go to Agonda (not to be confused with Aguada) for all imaginable rockfish which, with any lucky, you could angle yourself. Soormai, salmon and mullet are frequent catches.

Scuba Diving

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Scuba diving is also fastly gaining popularity. Underwater visibility in the more tranquil of Goa’s bays and lagoons ranges from five to 10 meters. Attractive coral heads, lobsters, bright colored fish, and other marine life can be conveniently explored in these shallow waters.

Goa - Handicrafts

2008-12-24T09:40:00.000-08:00

The art and craft of Goa is the product of the aesthetic blend of Portuguese and Indian culture.
The crafts of the state are intricately beautiful, capturing the fancies of tourists and locals alike. These crafts are a mirror of Goa's perennial beauty and they have won critical acclaim of the connoisseurs of the art world.

Goan lace is here, as are colourful masks, cotton bags, wooden toys and the excellent shopping bags and table mats woven from sisal or banana, coconut or pineapple fibre.

The best items are perhaps the fabulous terracotta and brass items from Bicholim. Items made from exquisite sea shells ranging from chandeliers to mirrors to idols are also much in demand.

The major art forms of the state include bamboo craft, woodcarving, brass metals, seashell craft, Papier-Mache, and wooden lacquer ware. Other important crafts are Jute Macrame, Fabric Collage, Plaster of Paris, Crochet and embroidery, fiber and Batik prints, fiber stone carving, Coconut shell carving, metal embossing, silver and imitation jewelry, cotton dolls, soft toys, woolen tapestry, and artistic weaving.

Pottery & Terracota: These are traditional crafts with utility-cum-decorative items produced by the potters with artistic perfection and realistic finish. The items produced with this craft include flower garden pots, bowls with floral designs, figures of Saints, Gods' and Goddesses' and animals, ashtrays and penholders, etc.

Brass Metal Ware: While utensils of utility are made of sheet metal (copper), brass metal casting is a craft passed on from one generation to another practised on hereditary basis.

The items produced include oil lamps in various designs, candle stands, temple towers, church bells, ashtrays, etc.

Wooden Laquerware/Wood Turning: Some of the most exquisite items produced in Goan woodcraft include cradles, baby carts, toys, corner stands, etc.

which are used mostly by Hindu families on religious occassions.

Crochet & Embroidery: Works such as tablecloths,

children and ladies garments, pillow and cushion covers, linen form a breathtaking apparel range.

Bamboo Craft: One of the major crafts industry of Goa.

The list of popular Bamboo products include flower baskets, mats, and letter-holders, pen stands, fans and other decorative items.

Fibre Craft: Shopping bags, ladies purses, coasters and wall hangings

, and other essential accessory items used in daily purposes are made of banana or sisal fibre and the major fibre craft centre is situated in Corlim.

Jute Macrame Craft: Jute craft is known to be one of the most unique crafts of India and items such as decorative bags, belts, wall hangings, lamp shades, flower pots, hangers, etc are popular Goan souvenirs.

Coconut Mask Carving & Sea Shell Craft: Mask carving has got a whole new look in Goa as it is done on coconut shells. Sea shell craft produces ashtrays, lamp shades, coasters, chandeliers, curtains, pot hangers, table mats, clocks, mirror frame, etc.

Jewellery :The Goldsmiths or Shetties worked on silver and gold. They created new alloys for use in making jewellery with precious and semi-precious stones.

The famous "marquesites" sets used by Christian women for weddings, earrings, rings, green malachite chains called "foddo" are still in fashion. Gold filigree necklaces were famous fifty years ago, as were flower shaped gold garlands for decorating shaped hair. Jewellery used by Hindu women is much more intricate and ornate, there is less use of precious and semi-precious stones. Instead black beads are worked into chains and gifted by the bridegroom to his bride as a symbol of marriage. When gold was used as currency, its jewellery was consider to be an investment. The important of the metal diminished in modern times as new of buildings up assets appeared along with government regulation that put a ceiling on the amount of gold that each women could possess.

Heaven's in Goa

2008-12-23T03:57:00.000-08:00

Mother Nature has been extremely generous to Goa and has lavishly gifted it with picturesque lakes, springs and waterfalls.Goa is well prosperous with a number of lakes, waterfalls and springs that has turned it into a tourist's paradise.
These waterfalls, lakes and springs lying far away from the seashores, away from the jostle of the beaches and thundering waves give you that perfect retreat, a perfect picnic spot and refreshing water to make a splash.
Some of the most wonderful water bodies to be essentially visited in Goa are as follows:

Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Arwalem Waterfalls
Mayem Lake
Carambolin Lake
Kesarval Spring

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

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Dudhsagar Waterfalls in Goa is located in the eastern edge on Goa-Karnataka border. It is included among the top 100 waterfalls in the world.The Dudhsagar Waterfalls descends down to a height of 600m in the rugged terrain of the Western Ghats.

The River Mandovi after flowing across the Deccan Plateau, diversifies in three torrential streams which cascaded down the precipitous rocky cliffs into a plunge pool beneath. The cascading water of the Dudhsagar Waterfalls down the height of 200 ft appears silvery white in color so the name Dudhsagar is given which means sea of milk. The picturesque surroundings around the waterfall is truly mesmerizing , the steep cliff over which the Dudhsagar Waterfalls descends , overlooks a steep, crescent-shaped valley covered with lush carpet of greenery. There is dense tropical forest all around.

Arvalem Waterfalls

2008-12-23T03:45:00.000-08:00

Arvalem Waterfalls in Goa, descends from the cliffs to a height of 50m and is a breathtaking sight to behold. It is situated 9km south of Bicholim town. Aravalem Waterfalls is located at Arvalem, which is only 2 km from Sanquelim, in Valpoi taluka, North Goa. This waterfall in Goa is in its full glory during the monsoons season.

Just close to Arvalem Waterfalls in Goa you will find rock cut caves in Sanquelim . Here there was a Buddhist cave temple , which was later transformed to a temple of Lord Shiva. Now it is known as Rudreshwar Temple. As you come out of the temple you will find a thunderous gush of water from the rock cliff. Here at the temple the Hindus perform the last rites of the departed.

The Arvalem Waterfalls in Goa while it cascades down settles in a huge lake at the bottom . This is most inviting for a refreshing dip in the cool and fresh water of the falls.The more expert swimmers can try out the deeper waters.

The rock carved caves , Arvalem caves is nearby you can go on an exploration. These caves has been shot in many movies and it gives the place a mystic charm.

The beauty of Arvalem Waterfalls can be fully enjoyed during the monsoon season. This time after the monsoons, the waterfalls bursts into its full glory shedding all its inhibitions and coming down in a rapturous outburst of silvery showers.

The State Government has also created a park for the tourists, you can enjoy the beauty of Arvalem Waterfalls while sitting there. The Aravalem Waterfalls in Goa is one of the attraction which lends a unique touch to the serenity and beauty of Goa.

Mayem Lake

2008-12-23T03:28:00.000-08:00

Mayem Lake is located 35 km. from Panaji, in the Bicholim Taluka , in North Goa. This is an artificial lake in Goa and is encircled by undulating green hills ,it serves as an ideal picnic spot. If you want to get the feel of rural Goa, then com here at Mayem Lake. You will get more vibrant atmosphere here than Panaji ,Mapusa or even Margoa.

Here at the Mayem Lake in Goa you will find placid lake with geese frolicking and cackling , enjoy cruise in the lake in pedal boats. You will find here cottages hidden in the forested slopes .

Carambolin Lake

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Purple Heron

Little Cormorant

Egrets

Lesser Whistling Duck

Just east of Old Goa, Carambolin Lake is lily-covered and has an enormous amount of waterfowl, many egrets and heron, bronze-winged and pheasant-tailed Jacana and thousands of exotic species such as Comb Duck and Cotton Pygmy-goose. Close to Carambolim is the Ciba-Geigy Chemical-Works which has created a pleasant nature reserve. Here you may sight Open-billed storks, Purple and Grey Heron, Little Cormorant and Marsh Harriers..

Kesarval Spring

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It is 22kms. from Panaji on Verna plateau just off the Panaji-Margao highway, the spring emerges from hard and compact rocks and people bathe in its water with strong belief that it has medicinal properties.

Goa Churches

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Goa is known as much for its majestic churches as for its scenic beaches. The Goan landscape is speckled with pristine white facades of opulent churches that embody the religious associations of the Portuguese colonizers. Apart from being religious institutions of pre-eminence, the churches of Goa are architectural wonders renowned for their aesthetic appeal. With a substantial Christian population, the churches of Goa play an important role in the state's social fabric. Following are some of the most prominent churches in Goa:

Basilica of Bom Jesus

Church of Mary Immaculate Conception

Church of St. Monica

Church of Our Lady of the Rosary

Church of St. Cajetan

Church of St Francis of Assisi

Se Cathedral

Basilica of Bom Jesus

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The town of Old Goa has some of Goa's most prominent churches and the Basilica of Bom Jesus church stands out for its magnificent Baroque architecture and sacred legacy. Built in 1695, the Bom Jesus Church has been designed along the lines of Gesu, the Jesuit headquarters in Rome. In 1946, the church was declared a Minor Basilica, the first church of India to be accorded such a status.

Church of Mary Immaculate Conception

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Established in 1541, the Church of Mary Immaculate Conception is one of the earliest churches built in Goa. Located at the heart of Panaji, this majestic church is a prominent landmark of the city. A silhouette of the Mary Immaculate Church illuminated with thousand of bulbs shimmering against an inky dark sky is one of the most enduring images of the Panaji city.

Church of St. Monica

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Located adjacent to the Chapel of St. Anthony on the Holy Hill or Monte Santo, the Church and the Convent of St. Monica was Goa's only convent for nuns. Construction of this massive nunnery started in 1606 and reached completion in 1627. The Church and the Convent of St Monica is acclaimed as the first nunnery of the East.

Church of Our Lady of the Rosary

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Located atop the Monte Santo or the Holy Hill, the Church of Our Lady of Rosary is the oldest surviving Church in Goa. The church stands on the site of Portuguese leader Alfonso de Albuquerque's victory over the armies of Bijapur Sultan in 1510. In fact the Lady of Rosary church is believed to be built by de Albuquerque as a sign of gratitude for his victory.

Church of St. Cajetan

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Built along the lines of the Basilica of St. Peter's in Rome, the Church of St. Cajetan is one of the visually appealing structures in Old Goa. The St Cajetan church was built by Italian friars of the order of Theatines, who were sent by Pope Urban VIII to preach Christianity. The friars were not permitted to work in Golconda, so settled at Old Goa in 1640. The construction of the church began in 1655.

Church of St Francis of Assisi

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The Church of St. Francis of Assisi stands contiguous to the Se Cathedral but is less impressive in appearance. The Church and the nearby Convent was built by eight members of the Franciscan friars, a religious order within the Catholic Church which seeks to live the Gospel in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi.

Se Cathedral

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The Se Cathedral Church is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. This church is considered to be the largest in Asia. The Portuguese built this splendid structure in the 16th century. The Cathedral stands towards the west of the great square called Terreiro de Sabaio and has its portico facing the east. Its beautiful and attractive patio is accessed by a flight of steps. The architecture of the Se Cathedral is typically Portuguese in style with a Tuscan peripheral and Corinthian core. The church is approximately 250 ft in length and 181 ft in breath. The frontispiece stands at a height of 115 ft.
Originally, there were two towers, on either side of the facade, but the one on the southern side plummeted in 1776. The exterior of the Cathedral is noteworthy for its plain style, which is typical of the Tuscan institution. The fallen bell tower was never rebuilt and has given the building an exceptionally charming look.
The Se Cathedral is famous for its five massive bells. The existing tower houses a famous bell, 'Golden Bell' which is one of the largest in Goa. On account of its melodic tone, it has been commemorated in a Portuguese poem. The main altar is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. Old paintings on either sides of the altar portray scenes from her life and martyrdom.

Temples in Goa

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Contrary to popular perception, Goa is home to some of the most famous temples of Hindus. During the Portuguese occupation, the temples in Goa were subject to rampant destruction and devotees had to clandestinely smuggle the deities for fear of persecution. The idols were kept in makeshift shrines until the Portuguese allowed the first temple to be built in 1818. Hence most of the Goa temples are of recent built in comparison to other Indian temples and the temple architectures display marked deviations from standard practices. Following are some of the prominent temples of Goa:
Mallikarjun Temple

Mahalaxmi Temple

MahalsaTemple

Mangueshi Temple

Naguesh Temple

Ramnath Temple

Saptakoteshwar Temple

Sri Devaki Krishna Temple

Sri Devaki Krishna Temple

2008-12-17T10:02:00.000-08:00

Located 17 km from state capital Panaji, Marcel in Ponda taluka is home to some of the most sacred Hindu temples in Goa. Among these shrines, Sri Devaki Krishna temple is of great religious significance. The uniqueness of the Devki Krishna temple lies in the fact that it is the only temple in India with the presiding deity of Devakikrishna, a confluence of Lord Krishna and his mother Devaki.

Saptakoteshwar Temple

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Acclaimed as one of the six revered temples of Lord Shiva in the Konkan area, the Saptakoteshwar temple has a chequered history dating back to the 12th century. During that period Saptakoteshwar was the patron deity of the kings of Kadamba dynasty. In 1352, when Bahamani Sultan Hassan Gangu usurped the Kadamba kingdom, his armies vandalized the linga of the Saptakoteshwar temple.

Mangueshi Temple

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Exterior Sri Manguesh Temple

Lamp tower at Shri Mangueshi Temple

Located about 21 km from Panaji, the Mangueshi temple stands tall amidst the scores of Hindu temple that dot the Goan landscape. One of the survivors of the destruction unleashed by the Portuguese, the Manguesh temple was originally located at Kushasthali (present day Cortalim).

Ramnath Temple

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side view of ramnath

Ramnath Dev sitting in a palki

Located 22 km from the state capital Panaji, the origin of the temple of Lord Ramnath is steeped in mythology. Natives believe that after slaying King Ravana of Lanka, a remorse-filled Lord Rama installed a shivalinga on the shores in order to atone for his act. Since then the temple came to be known as Rameshwar or Ramnath.

MahalsaTemple

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Front entry Sri Mahalsa Temple

'Dipa Stambha' at Sri Mahalasa Temple

The opulent Mahalsa temple is one of the most famous temples in Goa. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalsa, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Hence the temple is also as the Mahalsa Narayani temple, Narayan being another name for Vishnu. The Mahalsa temple is located one kilometer afar from the Mangueshi temple, another prominent temple in Ponda.

Naguesh Temple

2008-12-17T09:23:00.000-08:00

One of the ancient Hindu temples in Goa, the Naguesh temple is dedicated to Lord Naguesh, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Courtesy a stone plaque found near the temple, the origins of Sri Naguesh temple can be traced back to 1413, when the region was under the rule of Veer Pratap Devraya of the powerful Vijayanagar Empire.

Mahalaxmi Temple

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Located at the heart of the Panaji city, the Mahalaxmi temple is a sacred shrine for Hindu devotees. The Mahalaxmi temple enshrines the deity of Mahalaxmi, the Goddess of wealth. Mahalaxmi is also regarded the presiding deity of the Panaji city. The Mahalakshmi temple assumes significance for being the first Hindu temple to be built in Goa after the Portuguese invasion by Alfonse de Albuquerque.

Mallikarjun Temple

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Located amidst an enchanting landscape teeming with lush greenery, the Mallikarjun temple is renowned for its colorful festivals observed with pomp and pageantry. Built by the ancestors of the Kshatriya Samaj in 16th century, the Mallikarjun temple was subsequently refurbished in 1778.

Goa Cruises

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Cruises are a major tourist attraction in Goa. After a hectic day of sightseeing, the Goa cruises provide the perfect avenue for unwinding in a relaxed ambience. Besides marveling at the scenic beauty around, one also gets to enjoy the on board live cultural performances. There are options for river cruises and sea cruises in Goa.

River Cruises

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Most of the popular river cruises in Goa are conducted under the aegis of Goa Tourism Development Corporation. The placid waters of the Mandovi river lend themselves perfectly for these cruise tours. The river cruises in Goa are generally theme based cruises and can be categorized into three types - daytime, sunset and moonlight. Santa Monica, a luxury launch operated by the GTDC, is used for daily evening cruises on river Mandovi with 'live' cultural programmes performed by cultural troupes.

Sunset/Sundown Cruises

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As the name suggests, the sunset cruise sets sail as the sun dips in the horizon leaving a crimson sky. The cruise starts everyday at 6 pm and takes the tourists around some exotic locations including the Reis Magos Fort, the Aguada Fort and the Cabo Raj Bhavan. Cultural troupes perform traditional Goan dances such as the Dekni Temple Dance, the Fugdi Dance and the Corredinho Dance. The sundown cruise usually departs at 7.15 pm.

Full Moon Cruise/Special Cruise

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This one gives you an opportunity to enjoy the excitement of cruise trip for a bit longer period. The trip carries on for a period of two hours and, as per its name, offers a brilliant chance to enjoy the glittering beauty of moon. You can get an opportunity to sail across the River Mandovi and enjoy the moonlit falling on the river.

This will certainly take you on a different world from where you won't feel like returning. It is ideal romantic moment for couples.The cruise begins by 5.30 in the evening and continues upto 10.30 in the night. Per person charges are 150.

Sea Cruises

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The sea cruises on the Arabian Sea are an extravagant and luxurious affair. But most of the sea cruises originate in Mumbai and they return back after a one day halt at Goa. The Kadmat Island - Goa Cruise is spread over two full nights and a day and reaches Goa via the Kadmat Island. The Goa Cruise is a relatively shorter affair as the cruise starts off from Mumbai and heads straight for Goa .

Goa Forts

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The forts in Goa are largely a legacy of the Portuguese occupation of the land. As the conquerors led by Albuquerque sought to expand their territory, they erected massive forts at strategic locations so as to ward off hostile attacks. These imposing edifices, strategically situated at river mouths, proved to be the bulwarks against enemy troops. But as the Portuguese gradually gave up their dominions, the Goa forts were reduced to a state of dilapidation and ruins. In recent years some of the forts of Goa have been refurbished as heritage hotel properties to leverage their rich legacies. Some famous forts in Goa:

Aguada Fort

Cabo Da Rama Fort

Reis Magos Fort

Terekhol Fort

Aguada Fort

2008-12-14T03:07:00.001-08:00

Aguada Fort in Goa is a jewel crowning the rocky flat-topped headland flanked by the River Mandovi and the Sinquerim and Candolim beaches. Located at a distance of about 18 km from Panjim, Aguada Fort in Goa is a major tourist draw in spite being a not so colossal a structure. Built in 1612, Fort Aguada in Goa is by far the best preserved of the Portuguese fortifications. In fact a portion of it is still in use as Goa's Central Jail.

The Fort Aguada in Goa derives its name from the freshwater (agua) springs housed within the fort's perimeters. The multi-level Goa's Aguada Fort acted as an impregnable defense by standing guard at the entrance to the Mandovi. It was the first checkpoint for the ships sailing inland towards the harbor at Ribandar or Old Goa and the last for the ships returning home to Portugal. The construction of the Aguada Fort was prompted by the necessity of shielding Goa against the Dutch and the Maratha invasion from the sea.

The upper ramparts of the Aguada Fort of Goa are easily accessible and offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. A lighthouse dating back to 1964 still stands tall within the Goa's Aguada Fort. It is operational and open to the viewers who wish to climb up all the way so as to enjoy the mind-blowing view of the Arabian Sea and inland Goa. The Fort Aguada in Goa that remained unassailable for almost 450 years is now encroached upon by weeds and inundated by tourists putting up at the luxury resorts on Sinquerim beach.

Cabo Da Rama Fort

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Cabo Fort is nestled in a panoramic view of Goa. It was constructed in 1540 A.D. Situated on the south headland of the river Mandovi, the Cabo Palace fortress houses the Franciscan monastery which in1594 A.D became the official residence of the Governor of Goa.

The exact date of construction of the fort is not known but in 1540, the eighth Governor of Goa, D. Estevo de Gama, projected fortification of the mansion to safeguard the openings to the Mandovi and Zuari rivers.

The Cabo Fort in Goa, was under Indian, Portuguese ruling originally. The Goa Cabo Fort came under British rule in the 18th century, and rehabilitated into a prison.
The old convent adjacent to the Cabo Fort Goa has been converted to the residence of the Governor. It dates back to 1540, and is located just opposite the Fort Aguada.

Your trip to Cabo Fort Goa, can be shared with some fun on the beach. Spend the day swimming in the emerald waters of the Arabian, and enjoy a picnic by the beach, as you gaze upon the impressive structure of the Cabo Fort Goa.

A tour to the Cabo Fort Goa will give you a chance to get familiar with the stunning Portuguese architecture of the medieval era. Explore the well and springs within the premises.

Reis Magos Fort

2008-12-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

Built in 1551, the Reis Magos fort is another manifestation of the Portuguese rulers' resolve to defend their territory against invaders from the neigbouring states of Goa. The fort is located at the eponymous village on the northern bank of the Mandovi River. Originally built by Sultan Adil Shah, the Reis Magos fort was annexed by the Portuguese in 1760.

Terekhol Fort

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The Terekhol Fort Goa is one of the more famous forts in the state. Placed on the northern bank of the Terekhol River, it was built by the Raja of Sawanwadi. It was arrested by the Portuguese viceroy, Dom Pedro de Alameida in 1746. The church and the fort were rebuilt then. In 1825 it served as the base for armed revolt by the first Goan born Viceroy of Goa, Dr. Bernardo Peres da Silva against the Portuguese forces.
Terekhol Fort was a prime Portuguese fort for the defense of Goa, situated on the north side of the estuary of the Terekhol River, the northern most boundary of Goa. Habitually marked by towers and bordered by a trench it overlooks the panoptic ocean. In the middle of the fort is the church with a Goan frontage. The fort presently houses a tourist hotel. The stillness of the place is emphasized by the confluence of the quiet sea and the river.

Wildlife in Goa

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The mere mention of Goa conjures up the image of a landscape dotted with golden beaches and sparkling seas. This fixation with beaches ensures that the rich wildlife in Goa often takes a backseat in tourists' itineraries. But for those craving for a sip of nature, wildlife sanctuaries in Goa are definitely worth the effort.
The lofty Western Ghats mountains are endowed with a lush green canopy which is a haven for exotic species of flora and fauna. The wildlife sanctuaries of Goa have come up with the aim of providing safe refuge to endangered wildlife species. The four wildlife sanctuaries in Goa are as follows:
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Cotigao Wlidlife Sanctuary

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

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Spread over an area of 8 sq. km., the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is the smallest among the wildlife reserves in Goa. Due to its relatively small area, the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is known more as a wildlife resort than a sanctuary. Within its confines, the Bondla sanctuary houses a botanical garden, a rose garden, deer safari park and a zoo, initially established as a refuge for injured or orphaned animals.

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

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The Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary at Mollem covers an area of 240 square kilometers and is the largest wildlife preserve in Goa. This sanctuary lies on the eastern border of the state, close to the village of Mollem at the foot of the Western Ghats. The Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is 53 kilometres away from the state capital, Panaji. The sanctuary primarily consists of evergreen forests and deciduous trees.

Within the Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is the Molem National Park. Herds of deer and gaurs (Indian bison), clusters of monkeys, Malayan giant squirrels, cobras and pythons are housed in the sanctuary. There are also elephants and tigers, but spotting them could be a tough job. The sanctuary is also home to a few black panthers; and spotting them is not an easy task either.

The best time to visit the sanctuary is either early in the morning or late in the evening. The forest department has jeeps that conduct a safari tour. To avail of this facility, the Range Forest Officer must be contacted.

It is not possible to cover it all in a day, so your best bet will be to stay there. The nearest accommodation is available at the Tourist Complex that is run by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation. Moreover, while you are at it, a visit to the Dudhsagar waterfalls close by wouldn’t hurt. The13th century Mahadev Temple at Tambdi, Surla (12 kilometres away) is also worth a see.

Cotigao Wlidlife Sanctuary

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Located on the Goa - Karnataka border, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is the second biggest wildlife reserve in Goa. The Cotigao Sanctuary, a designated reserve since 1969, sprawls over an area of 86 sq. km. The Talpona river meanders through the thick vegetation and serves as the perennial water source for the sanctuary.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

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Named after renowned ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, this bird sanctuary is the abode of a myriad of bird species, both local and migratory. Encompassing an area of 1.8 sq. km, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is the smallest among the wildlife sanctuaries in Goa. The small area notwithstanding, the sanctuary teems with the winged visitors who come here searching for the ideal habitat.