Coastal erosion threatens Goa's idyllic beaches

PANAJI, India — India's resort state of Goa has been hit by several setbacks in the last 18 months, including high-profile crime and the knock-on effects of Islamist extremist attacks up the coast in Mumbai.

But with each holiday season, a greater threat to the tourist trade emerges -- coastal erosion that is leading to fears that some of the former Portuguese colony's famous white sandy beaches could disappear for good.

The Goa assembly heard last month that more than 10 percent of the 105-kilometre (65-mile) coastline was falling into the sea, including the beach next to the state governor's official Raj Bhavan residency.

"A total of 21 stretches are affected. They cover 11.22 kilometres of coastal area," Goa's minister for water resources Filipe Neri Rodrigues told the state parliament.

Two major stretches of beach -- Colva, in south Goa, and Coco Beach, in the north -- are being reinforced with flexible barriers called "geotubes" which stop land being undercut by erosion, Rodrigues said.

Other beaches where work is required include Calangute, Baga, Sinquerim, Candolim and Palolem, which attract many of the 2.4 million tourists from India and abroad who flock to Goa every year.

"The sea erosion over the years has intensified to a very large extent, resulting in a very huge threat not only to the coastline but also to human lives," Rodrigues' department said on its website.

For Goa's many shoreline tourist bars, the situation could wreck already insecure livelihoods.

Last tourist season, business dipped sharply after the widely-publicised rape and unsolved death of a 15-year-old British girl in February 2008.

The investigation into the death of Scarlett Keeling, whose battered body was found on a beach, exposed the dark underbelly of traditionally laid-back Goa and led to a police crackdown on drink and drug-fuelled excess.

Many tourists also stayed away after militants killed 166 people in Mumbai in November last year, while restrictions were placed on Goa's annual Christmas and New Year beach parties on security grounds.

"If we lose the beaches to soil erosion, tourism will naturally be affected," said Cruz Cardoso, a local entrepreneur who heads the Goa Shack Owners Association.

Flooding due to coastal erosion had already affected trade at some beaches, he added.

The state tourist authority has expressed concern and said it is working with scientists to shore up beaches so they are not lost to the Arabian Sea.

"We're taking it very seriously because we understand how important beaches are to us," Lyndon Monteiro, vice-chairman of the Goa Tourism Development Corporation, told AFP.

"We're doing whatever is required to see that our beaches are protected from nature's fury... We're confident we can address this issue and people are aware. They know that we must act fast and in the right manner."

Goa's predicament is faced by many coastal areas around the world, as global warming affects sea levels, the intensity of storms and ocean currents.

Monteiro also accepted that haphazard and unauthorised development since tourism took off in Goa from the days of the hippie trail in the late 1960s and early 1970s has added to its woes.

Environmental scientists have said the destruction of mangroves and salt pans, plus sand mining and construction for tourism have exacerbated problems.

The UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has warned that coastal erosion could displace millions and many idyllic destinations, like the Maldives in the Indian Ocean, could be wiped off the tourist map.

In India, about 1,500 kilometres or 26 percent of the mainland coastline faces "serious erosion" and is "actively retreating", according to the Asian Development Bank.

The Manila-based organisation is currently providing technical assistance for a 1.2-million-dollar sustainable coastal protection and management project of shorelines in three states along India's west coast, including Goa.

today news on goa

SpiceJet to introduce more flights to Goa from Mumbai and Bengaluru
SpiceJet is going to introduce more flights to Goa from Mumbai and Bengaluru before the festival season. The second flight connecting Goa and Mumbai will start from September 11, 2009. The additional flight from Bengaluru to Goa will start from October 25, 2009. With these new flights, SpiceJet’s daily departures will increase from 125 to 129 by October end this year.

 

Samyukth Sridharan, Chief Commercial Officer, SpiceJet Limited said, “We have been getting encouraging loads between Mumbai and Goa and hence we have enhanced our connectivity by adding an extra flight. These additional flights into Goa will give the festival season an additional boost. We are confident, that more people will fly to Goa, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India for both domestic and international traffic.”

 

1. Origin                  Destination                             Departure                                   Arrival
2. Mumbai                  Goa                                    16.25 hours                             17.30 hours
3. Goa                     Mumbai                                 1800hours                               19.10 hours 
4. Bangalore               Goa                                    15.15hours                              16.25 hours
5. Goa                     Bangalore                              13.35 hours                             14.45 hours

 

INTRODUCTION OF GOA

Introducing Goa
Those who haven’t visited Goa tend to imagine it as some kind of Indian Costa Brava but with more cosmic karma and, thanks to this image, many people vow never to set foot there. However, Goa, like everywhere in India, is never quite what you expect. In places the infamous hash-fuelled days of Goa’s golden hippy years are still alive and kicking, especially around Vagator & Chopora, while in others, like Calangute & Baga, the all-inclusive package holiday is king. But these are two very narrow sides of the Goan experience and anyone who spends much time here will discover that Goa contains more variety and vitality than almost anywhere else in India. Head into Panaji (Panjim), one of India’s smallest and most likeable state capitals, and, instead of self-contained tourist resorts and trinket-selling dreadlocks, you’ll discover a Portuguese pantry of flaking architectural delicacies spiced up with Indian exuberance. Inland, you can stand in greener-than-green fields picking vanilla pods, bathe with elephants or visit market towns like Mapusa.

The main draws of Goa are the beaches, such as Anjuna, which are every bit as cliché-beautiful as they’re supposed to be, but just as much of an attraction is its intriguing fusion of colonial Portugal and modern India. There is almost nowhere else in India where the influence of the former colonial overlords remains as strong as it does in Goa and it’s not at all unusual to find crucifixes hanging on walls next to posters of Shiva and groups of elderly Goan men conversing in Portuguese. Wander the majestic, time-worn cathedrals and basilicas of Old Goa, for a fascinating insight into this colonial legacy. Goa may not be as cool as it once was but it’s certainly just as magical.

night life in goa

For a state that is on holiday all the year through, where tourism is a major source of income for the state and the population living here, a lot credit goes to the nightlife of the state. What adds to the merriment here apart from the sun sand and sea is the terrific nightlife of the state. Even the most developed metros of the country cannot compete with the nightlife here. The beaches are popular undoubtedly but what makes them popular is the never dying party spirit of the people. Ever since the hippies made Goa their hangout zone, partying has come to be an integral part. The laws of the state are liberal with alcohol, you can get a drink almost at any spot in the state. However, it comes strict against drunken driving, nudity and drugs.

What surprises is that every third house at some place is a bar cum restaurant selling chilled bear and reasonable Goan delicacies and sea food.

There are numerous ways and places to have a wonderful evening ahead once you are in Goa, but don't plan ahead. If you plan to dine, drink and party at three different places through the evening then you might end up doing all three at a single place. Most restaurants also have bars, many bars have night clubs here. The atmosphere is relaxed. Nightlife in Goa is not just wine, dine and party, there are many options to choose from to spend your evening.

Party, Party and Party!

If you are a party animal then Goa is a party zoo. Rave parties became the mark of Goa in 1960's with hippies introducing them. Drinks, drugs and loud music marked these parties. However with government crack down on drugs and efforts to promote up market tourism instead of backpackers tourism, the rave parties have become trance parties. 'Trance' is the unique Goan music style developed by local music bands. The parties are now called Trance parties with dance and live bands performing, and controlled boozing. Anjuna, 'freak capital of the world' is popular for its night long trance parties. There is a pounding music system here on the beach. Its a rave party venue around Christmas and new year. But it's not just Anjuna raving with parties, Calangute, Baga, Colva, Dauna Paula are all venues for parties. Tito's at Baga, Ziggy's at Colva, Temptations at Red Cab on Vagator, Lido's at Dauna Paula. Except for few uncommercialized ones, you will find places of beach parties.

For a Laid Back Evening

If you have tired after exploring Goa through the day and are not in the mood to party or if you are one of those laid back kind of people then may be heading to a beach party will not be on your list. Goa has something to offer to every one. You can spend the evening gorging on sea food and chilled bear in a beach side shack. The shack owners in the evening organize bonfires and beach side barbecues. Just look for a shack and enjoy the fire, take your guitar or listen to recorded Goan trance. Or better still sit listening to the waves sipping your cocktail.

Goa Casinos

'Life is a game' if that's your take, then Goa has the best casino's to offer you. Though many casinos are on board cruises but there are others on the lands of Goa as well. Of late, government has been trying to implement a deadline of 11pm but has not been successful so far. For now casinos are open till wee hours in the morning. Goa's top class casinos offer games like roulette, blackjack, baccarat and craps . Some of the famous casinos are Cicade de Goa Beach Resort and Casino at Dauna Paula, Las Vegas - the Gaming Club Leela Palace Hotel, Treasures Casino Majorda beach resort.

The Night Cruises

For a truly out of world experience and party in a different way try the Goa night cruises. Several options are available on Mandovi river. Music, dance, drink and food all are included in the ticket or else take a luxury yatch. The journey will take you through the lights of Panajim - Miramar one one hand and Aguada fort and Reis Magos on the other side. You can also hire a private yatch for party purposes or other such affairs.

HOTELS

Luxury Hotels in Goa, Budget Hotels in Goa, Cheap Hotels in Goa
Goa Hotels in every price range and to suit every taste!
From bamboo huts beneath shady beach palms to spectacular five-star resorts with lobbies the size of an airport departure lounge and lush nine-hole golf courses.

This tiny state has probably the best range of places to stay in India.

You can rent a room in a village home, or stay on the beach surrounded by bamboo and palm-thatch, or go for the comfort of a clean, mid-range goa hotel with air-con and TV, or enjoy a luxurious hotel.

If you arrive early in the season you'll find plenty of rooms available in all budgets, giving you room to bargain or shop around if the price isn't right.

On the other hand, if you turn up at one of the more popular beaches in the high season you will come across some very average places that are vastly overpriced.

Christmas Period
Accommodation is all about supply and demand in Goa and the hottest demand is over the Christmas period. At this time many goa hotels in goa - particularly mid-range and top-end places at the popular beach resorts like Calangute and Colva - will jack their walkin rates up by two or three times. Many goa hotels are booked out with charter groups anyway.

You may even find that if you book into a place before this peak season, but stay through the Christmas period, the price will suddenly shoot up during your stay as hoteliers try to capitalise on this busy period.

If you're coming to Goa at this time, book ahead but shop around - not all goa hotel owners are greedy.

Villas in Goa

Information on Goa Villas
Goa India is a tourist paradise. Many tourist visit Goa to enjoy their holidays with families. Beaches of Goa are the main attractions of Goa India.

You will find many hotels, resorts, villas in Goa to stay on your holidays.

If you're looking for luxurious & modern villas in Goa for a holiday getaway, then Goa offers a variety of villas that are sure to meet your needs & budget. Included among the villas in Goa are beachfront villas, countryside villas, and others ranging from small traditional villas to large, luxury villas. These villas in Goa are located throughout the most popular villages & beaches in both North and South Goa.

Villas in Goa
Many foreigners who are frequent travellers to Goa India and who are in love with land of Goa owned many villas in Goa to spend their vacation in Goa on their visit to Goa. And when they are not in Goa, with the help of local travel agents they rent these villas to make extra income.

In tourist season it is very hard to find these villas as many visitors book in advance. So it is recommended to book in advance to avoid any problem on your visit to Goa.

Accommodation you will find in many villas
Bedrooms
Bathrooms
Kitchen
Living Rooms
Cleaning/towels/linen/maid service

These Goa villas are well furnished with all amenities.

Amenities/Facilities you can find in many villas are
Hob
Oven
Fridge/Freezer
Microwave
Washing Machine
Tumble Dryer
Iron/Ironing Board
Garden
Satellite tv
Tv
Air Conditioning
Room fans
Cot
Barbecue
Shared pool
Private Car Parking
Maid Service
Airport/Railway pickup
And many more

If you stay in these Goa villas, you will feel yourself in your own home, we recommend these villas to newly wed couples on their honeymoon, as your honeymoon is a special day for you both and you should stay in a special place to enjoy every minute of your vacation without any disturbance.

Why Stay in Goa Villas ?
Total freedom and relaxation. A Goa villa is an ideal place to do nothing - just relax and have a few really peaceful and private moments as there are absolutely no distractions.

This is an ideal place for the sophisticated international travelers who are looking for an extraordinary vacation experience, be it a family vacation or a quiet quality time with your partner in life. It's the place you will go to celebrate this very special thing called life.

Villas are the best place to stay on your holidays. These villas are much cheaper than hotels and you will have good privacy. This way you will save money which you can spend on other activities in Goa, like; travelling, shopping, dinning out, sightseeing tours, wildlife safaries and also you can extend your holidays to visit more beaches which you missed on your tour.

Many Goa villas are near to popular beaches of Goa. The terrace balcony is the place where you can relax and not be disturbed at all except for the occasional flying seagull. Invite your friends and have a BBQ and watch the sun go down. It has filtted hammock so you can laze in or sunbathe.

Villas are ideal for a family of 4 people or even two, but at the same time it has provisions to comfortably accommodate a larger group, where the whole extended family can live together in a convivial atmosphere. These villas may also be shared by two families Known to each other.

Cheap Hotels in Goa

Range between Rs. 200/- to Rs. 400/-
Cheap Hotels in Goa
This type of accommodation is suitable for the budget-minded traveller and especially the backpacking tourist. This can range from simple, bare rooms in regular guesthouses to cosy well furnished rooms in family-run guesthouses.

How much Cheap Goa Hotels cost ?
This kind of Goa accommodation is costlier in the city and popular coastal belt areas and cheaper if you go off the beaten track in the rural areas.
A decent double room with a fan, attached bath and toilet typically costs around Rs. 200/-. The prices usually double in the peak season period.

Remember ...
It is always a good idea to check the state of the bathroom and toilet confirming your reservation with money.

Facilities in Cheap Goa Hotels...
If you want to get a taste of the typical rural Goa, try accommodation in a family house with mud-floored rooms. The water supply is usually the common village well and baths/toilets are in small outhouses.

Budget Hotels in Goa

Range between Rs. 400/- to Rs. 1000/-
Budget hotels in Goa or Mid-range Goa Hotels are found all over Goa and form the major portion of the available accommodation. These have proper reception areas, well appointed rooms, room service and usually a restaurant.

Goa Hotels Off-season ...
Off season, these Goa hotels are the best bet for your stay. But, most of these hotels are fully booked with hordes of Charter tourists from Europe during the peak season, so finding a room might be a little difficult.

However there are still rooms to be found for the walk-in tourist although at a slightly higher tariff.

Facilities in Budget Hotels
You will find many facilities in these hotels on your stay in Goa. Here are the few facilities you will find... Mini bar, Refrigerator, Telephone, Television, Tea/coffee facility, Restaurant, Bar, Coffee Shop & Room service. Also it might include, laundry, safe deposit lockers, travel counter, shopping, doctor on call, fax & secretarial services.
Before accommodation, check with your hotel for facilities you will get.How much Budget Goa Hotels cost ?
The tariffs for rooms at such hotels range between Rs 400/- to Rs 1000/- for a good-sized room with a fan, en-suite bath/toilet, a balcony and hot and cold running water.

There are optionals such as cable TV and air conditioning also available. Most 1-star and uncategorised hotels fall in this category.

Luxury Goa Resorts

Range between Rs. 2000/- to Rs. 10000/-
Luxury Goa Resorts and Hotels in Goa or Upmarket Hotels in Goa:
These higher budget range hotels in Goa can be classified into two categories: the slick modern 2-star and 3-star hotels which can be found in all the major towns as well as all the popular coastal belt and the high-priced international standard 5-star luxury resorts which cater to the rich and the famous.

The luxury resorts are all located in the coastal areas within easy walking distance of a beach.

Facilities ...
Resorts in this category typically have their own restaurants with different cuisines, coffee shops, large swimming pools, sports and gym facilities along with shops selling everything from books to carpets.

Stay in Style
If you love to stay in style, These luxurious hotels or resorts are the perfect choice for you. Personal attention is paid to the minutest needs of guests and the ambience is nothing less than a home.
The luxurious rooms and suites are gracefully decorated and neatly furnished with modern comforts like en suite baths with bathtub/shower, 24-hour hot and cold running water, deluxe toiletries, separate dressing area, direct dial telephone with STD/ISD facility, remote-controlled color TV with satellite channels, fully stocked mini bar, electronic safe and round the clock room service.

How much it cost ?
The luxury rooms at these type of establishments range typically from Rs 2000/- to Rs 10000/- per night and it is often best to stay at these hotels on one of their special packages available at a much lesser rate.

WHEN TO GO GOA

Information on when to go
for your Holidays in Goa

Know Before You Go
There are a few tips which are worth knowing before you go for your Holidays in Goa. Some of them will make the holiday even more enjoyable. Some of them can prevent the goa holiday from becoming extremely unenjoyable.

Goa weather... You will find warm climate all throughout the year. The temperature of Goa normally varies from 28oc to 29oc during July to August and touches a maximum of 33oc to 35oc during May. In summer time, the days are more pleasant with warm sunshine and cool sea breeze blowing in all parts of Goa. The winters are never chilling but a certain amount of coldness prevails with warmer sea breeze flowing all throughout Goa. The monsoons are simply wonderful. The brooks start overflowing through the dense forests and fields and the waterfalls become more gushing. The summer gets washed away and Goa becomes simply wonderful to spend holidays in Goa.

Best time for Holidays in Goa ...
The best time to visit Goa is during the cooler months from November to March. During this time, beautiful Goa remains quite pleasant, so you will be able to enjoy the sun-soaked goa beaches as well as the Goa carnival which is celebrated in the month of February.

Peak time to enjoy Holidays in Goa...
Without doubt the peak time for visitors to Goa is over Christmas and New Year, and some people have been coming back annually for a decade or more. The massive influx of visitors at Christmas allows hotels and guesthouses to charge exorbitant prices and many are booked solid, but it's a great time to be in Goa.
The weather is perfect, the place is buzzing, and in typical Goan fashion there are parties most nights.

Start of the tourist season ...If you arrive in October, right at the start of the tourist season, you'll find the beaches pleasantly empty, but may also find that some of the facilities (such as goa beach shacks) haven't yet bothered to open.
At the end of the high season, April and May can be very humid, and suffer from the same problems as the beginning of the season; most beach shacks pack up after Easter and swimming becomes less pleasant as the sea gets rougher.

Welcome Rain ...
The monsoon, which visits Goa between June and the end of September, is felt by many Goans to be when the state is at its best. Parties and celebrations are held to welcome the rain, and the countryside turns lush and green almost overnight. In terms of tourism, however, this period is virtually dead. Some guesthouses simply close up while all energies are devoted to farming. Swimming in the sea is out of the question.

Season Accommodation ... During monsoon season (June-October), prices drop by up to half and the resorts empty out. Unless noted otherwise, hotels here have central air-conditioning, room service, doctors on call, and currency exchange facilities, and rooms have cable TV and bathrooms with showers.

HOW TO GO GOA

Find information on how to reach Goa
Planning your Holidays to Goa - and wondering how to go Goa from India or from other country ?
For your convenience and easy traveling I have created this page, to make it easier for you to travel Goa and have fun on Goa Beaches on your Holidays to Goa.


You can travel Goa by Air, Bus, Car, Train & Motorcycle.

Travelling to Goa is really fun.
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How to reach Goa from India
Travelling to Goa from India is easy and convenient by local transport.
You have many options to visit Goa from India - by Air, Bus, Train, Car & Motorcycle.
On your Holidays to Goa, you will experience magic of India Travel and also discover true India.
So let's begin as how to reach Goa...

AIR

India's main domestic airlines, Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Sahara have regular domestic services between Goa and Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kochi (Cochin), Kozhikode (Calicut), Pune and Bangalore. Most airlines have reasonable onward connections to other cities in India from Mumbai or Delhi.
Computerized booking systems mean getting Goa Flight information and making reservations is relatively simple, but flights into and out of Goa are heavily booked between December and February, so plan as far in advance as possible.

You will get cheap flights to goa from major cities of India.

BUS India has a comprehensive and extensive public bus system, but most of the state-run vehicles are tired, decrepit and overcrowded. From neighbouring states you'll find frequent bus services into Goa - it's just a matter of turning up at the bus station and checking timetables or jumping on the next available bus. There are also plenty of private bus companies running into Goa from Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Mangalore and other interstate cities.

The private buses are marginally more expensive, but are also faster and more comfortable, with reclining seats and the option of air-condition or even 'sleeper' class.

TRAIN Two railway system cross the state. The South Central Railway has its terminus in Mormugao (past Vasco da Gama) and runs due east, through Margao (Madgaon) and into Karnataka. The main stations in Goa include Pernem, for Arambol (Harmal); Thivim (Mapusa Road) station, for Anjuna, Baga and Calangute; Karmali (Old Goa) station, for Old Goa and Panaji; Margao, for Colva and Benaulim; Canacona, for Palolem.

If coming from Mumbai or Mangalore you can book your ticket to these intermediate stations, but even if you book through to Margao you can get off at any station en route.

CAR & MOTORCYCLE Renting a self-drive car in any of the main cities in India and driving to Goa is possible but not recommended. India holds and unenviable record of having the most dangerous rounds in the world.

If you want to travel into Goa by car it's easy to hire a car and driver. Car-hire companies offer chauffeur-driven services, or you can simply make your way to the nearest taxi rank and start bargaining. The 600km trip from Mumbai to Goa takes about 14 hours; many drivers will happily do this in one stretch, although you can easily break it over two days, perhaps stopping overnight on the beach at Ganpatipule.

FOOD IN GOA

The staple diet of Goa is fish curry and rice. Unlike the rest of India, most Hindus in Goa eat fish. In the monsoons, when no fresh fish is available, most Goans have very long faces.

The other favorite dish is pork, although chicken is a close second. In Goa like many other places in the world, alcohol, for some, is a major problem. The main cause of which is FENI. This is the local drink in Goa, made from either coconut sap or cashew fruit.

Goan cuisine is really palatable satisfying the gluttony of anyone, especially a gourmet or connoisseur. If you belong to the above category and you are making a trip to Goa, then you have made the right choice. The cuisine in Goa is a perfect blend of diverse food cultures - the Konkan, the Portuguese and the Bahamani Nawabi traditions. When you travel to Goa, you will find Goan food is simple but also very hot and spicy.

The major attractions of the cuisine take in seafood, sea-fruits, fish, prawns, mussels, oysters, crabs, feni, gin and many more. Goan restaurants also offer chourisso (pickled pig's liver cooked in vinegar with tamarind) & vindalho (spicy pork). Goans use coconut sauces. One can also find India's best of beers & local wines (port being the most palatable). Goa offers equally good options for vegetarians also with a wide range of regional vegetarian thalis from North-Indian, South-Indian, Jaini thali, marwari thali so on and so forth. If you are a person who loves satisfying the demands of your taste buds, then Goan cuisine in India will offer you immense satisfaction.

Name any kind of food and you have it-be it Chinese, Thai, Italian, Mughalai, South Indian, Mexican, Portuguese, Korean, Vietnamese and of course our own Goan…restaurants in Goa, India, will have them ready for you. This way, you won't be missing out on your traditional food, no matter what nationality you belong to. But once in this Indian state of Goa, it would be a good idea to relish the traditional cuisine of Goa, India.

Eating out in Goa, India, can be a special experience. Goa is lined up with numerous restaurants offering Goan food or any other food that you want and these Goan restaurants are usually situated by the beach, giving you a unique recipe of the setting sun blended with delicious sea-food and thirst-quenching Feni.

If you would like to experience exotic Goan delicacies, then you should be in India and especially in Goa between November and May because it is during this time that the Goan restaurants churn up their own recipe.

South Goa has five star resorts to its credit but if you are looking for Goan delicacies at reasonable rates, then North Goa is undoubtedly the place to be.

TREAT FOR NON-VEGETARIANS IN GOA

Let us begin our culinary journey from the traditional Goan snack, Pao com Chouricos (fried spicy Goan sausages, sautéed with onions, served in a bread roll) or Iscas de Galinha (fried chicken liver). Wash the spice down with an almost bland Portuguese potato broth with diced greens, called Caldo verde. In true Portuguese-Goan tradition, many of the delicacies on the menu are various types of meat soaked in different spices for at least a day or two before being cooked with a generous dose of homemade spices.

Or you could try the Galhina Piri-Piri, which are chicken pieces marinated in a mild mixture of piri-piri and Goan herbs, before being fried. As legend goes the Goa cuisine is responsible for introducing that quintessential Portuguese delicacy Chicken Cafreal (chicken marinated in a mildly spiced green coconut masala and fried) to the people world over. Another mouth-watering specialty of Goa is Pork Vindaloo (Pork cooked in a spicy, oily masala gravy). The Goa cuisine promises that if you taste their Goan pork vindaloo once, then any other preparation of pork is not going to appeal to you. Why not check out that promise?

A happier meeting of cultures produced the Goan cuisine. Alongside tandoori, rice and dal, Goan restaurants offer chourisso (pickled pig’s liver cooked in vinegar with tamarind) & vindalho (spicy pork). Chillies & cashew nuts were introduced by the Portuguese, as were plantains brought from African colonies; Goans use coconut sauces. You will find India’s best of beers & local wines (port being the most palatable).

Often Music & dance accompany festivities, the Christian religions having mingled with traditional Indian practices of folk worship. During the Carnivals towns & villages rock under wildest spirits. People dancing in the streets & Feni flows freely everywhere.

CRUISES

HIRE OF BOATS
The boat cruises are a must for every tourist’s itinerary in Goa. Enjoyment guaranteed to every man, woman and child of any age. You can sit and enjoy the different rhythms of the music, the boat, the drumming of the dancers’ feet and the rhythm of the Mandovi River as old as Time itself flowing beneath you. Drink in the beautiful vistas of the open Arabian Sea with the capital city of Panaji flowing prettily past, further up river past the velvety green island of Chorao.

Swing to the rhythm of the music, the waves and dance on board our luxury launches Santa Monica and Shantadurga. The Santa Monica is a luxury launch built on a twin hull and used for daily evening cruises on river Mandovi. The sunset and sundown cruises along the River Mandovi are an experience to remember. The boats take you either west to see the sunset or east to the island of Chorao. To add that extra zing to the evening a live band plays on board and folk dances are performed for passengers. One of the best times to take the evening boat cruise is during the Christmas-New Year season when Panjim’s entire riverfront with its beautiful heritage buildings and trees are outlined in fairy lights.

The early evening cruise is an experience that never leaves you, especially if you get a seat in the front of the boat and watch the banks of the River Mandovi slip smoothly by. You would understand why the Portuguese, who sailed down the same route, were so fascinated by this lovely smiling land that they had to have and hold Goa for the next 500 years.

Departure from Santa Monica jetty

Hire of Santa Monica between 9.00 am to 5.00 pm = Rs 5000/- per hour (both decks).

Hire of Shantadurga between 9.00 am to 5.00 pm = Rs 3000/- per hour (both decks) detention Rs 800/- per hour

Poseidon launch – 24 seater – charter hire: Rs 16,000/- for 8 hours

Rowing/Pedal Boats (4-seater) at MayemLake: Rs 120/- per hr. Rs 80/- per ½hr

Sunset Cruise
•Dep 6.00 pm (1 hr duration)
•Rs 150/- per head
This cruise is generally included in the North Goa Tours arranged by the GTDC. This is an hour long cruise on the Santa Monica which takes guests out on a leisurely sail down the River Mandovi from the Santa Monica jetty in Panaji. While the vessel sails serenly down the river past the beautiful Adil Shah Palace that was once the first building in Panjim City. This was the summer palace of the Sultan which was then used by the Viceroy of Portugal and finally by the government of Goa as its Secretariat. Now that a new Secretariat is in use on Porvorim Hill across the river Mandovi, the Adil Shah Palace wil be turned into a cultural centre with art galleries and concert halls, etc.

While you sail down the river local boys and girls treat you to some Goa's best known folk dances, the dekhni and the fugdi. They sing mandos and finally give over centrestage to live musicians or a DJ and the guest can then sing and dance and generally make merry. This cruise is a huge success with people of all ages, men, women and children.

The Santa Monica then takes you past the Panjim riverfront past the jetty and old colonial buildings on past the Promenade with its lovely tree lined avenues past Miramar where you sit and watch one of Goa's spectacular sunsets. You can see the spread of the Mormugao Port and the mass of the Aguada Fort and as the shadows lengthen you find yourself transported back in history to the time when all visitors who landed on these shores loved Goa so much they wanted to possess her.

The Santa Monica then turns around and sails back to her jetty along the silent Mandovi, past the pretty cottages of Betim. The cruise is an hour long.

Sundown Cruise
•Dep 7.15 pm (1 hr duration)
•Rs 150/- per head
This wonderful hour long cruise is after sunset. Panjim by night is a sight you will not easily forget with dancing fairy lights twinkling at you from the riverfront. The Santa Monica takes you along the Mandovi River from the Santa Monica jetty in Panaji.

While the vessel sails serenly down the river past the beautiful Adil Shah Palace that was once the first building in Panjim City, there is a lot of entertainment on board with young people of Goa, dancing local folk dances, singing mandos and other folk song. After that live or DJ music is played and guests can join in the revelry, singing, dancing or making merry. Men, women and children regardless of age enjoy themselves hugely.

The Adil Shah Palace was the summer palace of the Sultan which was then used by the Viceroy of Portugal and finally by the government of Goa as its Secretariat. Now that a new Secretariat is in use on Porvorim Hill across the river Mandovi, the Adil Shah Palace wil be turned into a cultural centre with art galleries and concert halls, etc.

The Santa Monica then takes you past the Panjim riverfront past the jetty and old colonial buildings on past the Promenade with lighted tree lined avenues past Miramar and you look at the city lit up in a glorious comign together of the old and the new. You can see the lights of the huge oceanliners anchored at Mormugao Port and the dark mass of the Aguada Fort. You find yourself transported back in history to the time when all visitors who landed on these shores loved Goa so much they wanted to possess her.

The Santa Monica then turns around and sails back to her jetty along the silent Mandovi, past the pretty cottages of Betim. The cruise is an hour long.

Dinner Cruises
(Wednesday/Saturday)
•Dep 8.30 pm Arr. 10.30 pm
•Rs 400/- per head with dinner
The Dinner cruise leaves the Santa Monica Jetty at 8.30 pm. This is a two-hour cruise which takes you along the Rvier Mandovi from the jetty in the Santa Monica. There is lots of entertainment on board with young boys and girls dancing Goa's famous folk dances of dekhni and fugdi. There is live music or DJ music and all are invited to sing and dance and have a jolly good time, while the boat sails down the river.

You can take part in the merriment or you can look at the beauty of one of the most beautiful cities in India slipping gently past the Adil Shah Palace which was the first building in Panjim, being the summer palace of the Sultan. The boat sails past the beautiful colonial buildings, past the Promenade with its trees festooned in fairy lights, past the Miramar beach and then slowly back past the gentle shoreline of Verem and Betim on Mandovi River's northern bank and back to Santa Monica Jetty.

Refreshments and dinner is served on board with delicious fare of vegetarian and non-vegetarian culinary deltights.

Since this cruise begins late in the evening and ends late at night, guests are picked up and dropped back to their GTDC residencies.


DOLPHIN CRUISE (Wed, Sat, Sun)
● Dep: 8.30 am – 10.30 am
● Rs 250/- per head (Includes Refreshment)

Sight closely the migratory and resident birds along the riverine tip of Dr Salim Ali’s Bird Sanctuary at Chorao Island. Venture deep into the sea in cruise boats to secluded places where the graceful river and sea dolphins play. Watch as these smiling beauties teasingly swim alongside the boats

TOURS

NORTH GOA TOUR
TOUR: NORTH GOA TOUR (Ex- Panaji)
DAY: Daily
TIMINGS: Dep: 9.30 am – Arr: 6.00 pm
RATE: Rs 150/- Non AC
Rs 200/- AC

This tour takes you to visit one of the most significant temples of this land of churches and temples – Saptakoteshwar temple at Narva. The deity of Lord Saptakoteshwar was hidden and buried and spirited away whenever Goa was under attack. One could say Lord Saptakoteshwar’s fortunes rose and fell with those of Goa. This temple was the final shrine built for the deity which has been worshipped for more than a thousand years by Goans and the crumbling temple was renovated by none other than Maharaj Chhatrapati Shivaji himself in 1688.
Next comes the exquisite Mayem Lake which nestles sparkling silver among low forested hills. The tour halts for lunch here. Then on via Mapusa town to beaches of Vagator, Anjuna, Calangute, Fort Aguada and a final stop at the Panjim Handicrafts Emporium.

IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER

? Always wear a hat/cap when you are outdoors.
? Sunscreen is a must.
? Carry mineral water; make certain you buy it from a genuine dealer. Drink often.
? Refuse plastic carrybags when you go shopping. Take your own carrybag. Keep Goa litter free and care for the environment.
? Venture into the sea ONLY if you are a good swimmer, and only at beaches manned by life guards. Drinking and swimming is more dangerous than drinking and driving.
? Seek information and assistance only from genuine Tourist Information Centres. Do not deal with touts and middlemen.

SOUTH GOA TOUR

TOUR: SOUTH GOA TOUR (Ex- Panaji)
DAY: Daily
TIMINGS: Dep: 9.30 am – Arr: 6.00 pm
RATE: Rs 150/- Non AC

Old Goa used to be one of the five most developed cities in the world when she was the Rome of the East, presiding over the most important world trade route between the East and the West, the North and the South. The Churches of Goa are all that are left and a look at them will give you a good idea of the beautiful Indo-Portuguese architecture that was prevalent during the time of the Portuguese. Indian artisans built these structures and their unmistakable stamp can be seen everywhere one looks. The tour takes you to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, WAX WORLD MUSEUM and the Museum of Christian Art. The tour continues to the temples of Shri Manguesh at Priol and Shri Shantadurga at Kavlem, Ancestral Goa at Loutolim, (lunch halt) Margao/ Colva Beach, Dona Paula Bay and Miramar Beach.

NIGHT TOUR
TOUR: GOA BY NIGHT (Ex-Santa Monica Jetty, Panaji)
DAY: Wednesdays & Sundays only (Minimum 10 pax) TIMINGS: Dep: 6.30 pm – Arr: 9.30 pm
RATE: Rs 200/- Non AC Rs 300 AC

This extremely popular cruise is an experience you will never want to let go off.
The Santa Monica launch takes you gently down the river to the Dona Paula Bay, past the Adil Shah Palace which was the first building of Panjim built by the Sultan as his summer palace and which housed the Goa Secretariat until a few years ago. The tour also takes you by road to see the Mae de Deus Church of Saligao, the Immaculate Conception Church, you can absorb a panoramic view of Panaji city from Altinho hill-top and then visit the Maruti temple at Panaji.

GOA BEACHES

More than 36 beautiful Goa Beaches are waiting for your footprints...
Nature has provided Goa with exceptional physical features that make it an ideal tourist destination.

All beaches in Goa are heavenly beautiful with splendid white sand and crystal-clear water in the most various blue tones.

Washed by tides twice a day, refashioned by monsoons yearly, the goa beaches always have something new to offer. Gentle aquatic hues, mingling with sun kissed beaches...endless pleasure!

With a coastline of 100km Goa offers many picturesque beaches.

If variety is what you are looking for don't look any further. Each Goa Beach has an individuality of its own.

Parties on Goa Beaches ...
Beaches of Goa are also famous internationally for its trance parties & nightlife. You will surely enjoy your parties on the beaches of goa ...

... so don't forget to bring your camera on your Goa Beach Holidays to shoot these unforgettable goa parties pictures ... these pictures will remind you to prepare for next Goa Beach Holidays ...ofcourse, you will be excited to visit this beautiful Goa every year and I am sure that you will make Goa your permanent Holiday destination ...
Goa is a real paradise for you, to enjoy the sea or just to soak up the sun.

Best Goa Beach or Beaches...
People do ask me mostly "Which is the Best Goa Beach or Beaches in Goa" and I just tell them that it is really impossible to list out Best Beaches.... because each beach is having its own beauty and importance which makes itself a best beach...

But here are my favourite Goa Beaches which I will recommend you to visit and enjoy on your holidays to Goa... here are my favorite list of beaches.... Arambol Beach, Agonda Beach, Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, Benaulim Beach, Bambolim Beach, Calangute Beach, Bogmalo Beach, Candolim Beach, Colva Beach, Palolem Beach, Sinquerim Beach, Vagator Beach....

Best time to visit Goa Beaches
The best time of the year to visit and enjoy Goa beaches are Winter months especially from October to March.
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Here is a list of the Goa's finest public North Goa Beaches and South Goa Beaches.

Most Popular North Goa Beaches !
Beaches in Goa are usually named for the closest village.

Arambol Beach of GoaArambol Goa Beach - 48 km (30 miles) northwest of Panaji
Goa's northernmost beach, also known as Harmal (and in the Pernem district), is ruggedly lovely. You enter through a hippie colony where young foreigners live in small huts. The best stretch of beach is a 20-minute walk to the right, beyond the ragged food and drink shacks. Here, the scenery is spectacular; a fresh water pond nestles at the base of the hillside 50 yards from the crashing surf below, and the ocean foams around dark rocks rising offshore. The sea is rougher here than at other Goa beaches - still good for swimming but a bit more fun for surf-seekers. To avoid crowds in season, walk past the pond and you'll find quieter tide-dependent inlets and rock ledges.

Where is Arambol beach in Goa?
Arambol is situated further north of Goa and is approximately 50 kms from Panaji, the state capital of Goa.


How to reach Arambol beach?
Tourists visiting this beach can take one of the many buses that regularly ply between Arambol and Mapusa, and also between Arambol and Chopdem. It takes around 40 minutes to reach Arambol from Chopdem for a distance of 12 km. On market day's tourists can take boats to Anjuna. To move locally in Arambol, vacationers can hire taxis or bikes that are easily available.

Vagator Beach of Goa Vagator Goa Beach - 25 km (16 miles) northwest of Panaji
Little Vagator and Vagator come to life after dark with Goa's infamous raves. The beaches have secluded sandy coves, lots of palm trees, and still are not as commercial as Calangute-Baga Beach, though overrun during the day by busloads of tourists. To the north you can see the dark red walls of the old hill fort of Chapora, which was taken twice from the Portuguese by the Marathas. (The Marathas ruled a principality that covers much of the modern-day state of Maharashtra, north of Goa.) To the south of striking white cross tops a rock jetty. The view from the ramparts is phenomenal, and farther up the shore are stretches of secluded sand. Vagator's gentle surf is good for swimming.

Where is Vagator beach situated ?
Located in North Goa, Vagator is 22 km from Panaji, the capital of the Indian state of Goa. It lies on the northern edge of Bardez taluka. Situated close to the Anjuna beach.

How to reach Vagator beach?
The nearest airport is at Dabolim, which is 29 km away from Panaji. Panaji is just 22 km away. If you are travelling by road, this beach is at a distance of 9 km from Mapusa, and 22 km far from the state capital Panaji. There are frequent buses to Panaji and Mapusa from Vagator.

Anjuna Beach of Goa Anjuna Goa Beach - 20 km (12 miles) northwest of Panaji
The Calangute Beach party seems to have shifted to Anjuna, and has spread farther north to Vagator Beach as well. Although Anjuna can get very crowded and the party scene become riotous, the beach is still not as commercial as Calangute, and does not have large-scale luxury resorts, such as those at Sinquerim Beach and those in the south. Drugs are also too easily available here, but are highly illegal - even if they seem to be part of the system. More happily, Anjuna is known for its flea market on Wednesday, a legacy of the days when hippies used to sell their belongings here to buy a few more weeks of love and peace. The Shore Bar at the beach is the place in Goa to watch the sunset and bond with the rest of Anjuna's drugged out population.

Where is Anjuna beach?
Anjuna is a small village in North Goa and Anjuna beach is approximately situated 18 km away from Panaji, the capital of Goa.
It is one of the most popular beach in Goa. The beauty of the white waves rushing to embrace the pale golden sand on the beach can be witnessed in full form.

Best time to visit...
You can enjoy here at any time of the year because the climate is pleasant through out. However, tourists should beware the heavy rainfall between June and October. The period from November to February is the best time to visit Anjuna. After being soaked in the beauty of the beach and having tried one's hand at bargaining in the flea market at Anjuna beach, there is the magnificent Albuquerque Mansion built in 1920, the Mascarenhas Mansion and the Chapora Fort, for one to see. The Mascarenhas Mansion is an architectural delight with rich and classic balconies. It has some of the finest stained glass floral etchings. The Chapora Fort gives a splendid view of the nearby Anjuna and Vagator beaches. The fort has been well preserved except for a few interesting ruins. Once, it was a domain of the Muslim rulers before the Portuguese wrested it.

How to reach Anjuna beach
The nearest airport is at Dabolim, which is 29 km away from Panaji and 47 km from Anjuna. The nearest railway station is at Karmali, 11 km away from Panaji and 29 km from Anjuna. There are buses every hour to Anjuna from Mapusa. For tourists arriving from Mumbai, Mapusa is the jumping-off point for the northern beaches. Once in Goa, you can also hire bikes whose charges range from Rs 250 to Rs 400 per day. This way you can cover all the beaches as per your wishes and schedules.

Baga Beach of Goa

Baga Beach - 15 km (9 miles) northwest of Panaji
This small Goa beach about 2 km (1.2 miles) north of Calangute, in the Bardez district, is a lively place known for its hoping "shack life." The many popular food and drink are headlined by St. Anthony's for seafood and Tito's Bar for nighttime revelry. The beach drops steeply to the shoreline, where fishing canoes make use of the easy boat-launching conditions to provide rides, often to the Wednesday market at Anjuna Beach just around the bend (the ride to Anjuna takes 15 minutes by sea, but significantly longer by road). A few hundred meters down the beach to the left of the entrance are more open, less crowded areas where you can spread out your towel and sunbathe. The beach is named for the mouth of the Baga river (at its northern end).

Where is Baga beach?
This beach lies on the shores of the Arabian Sea of North Goa in India. It is encircled by Arpora-Nagoa, Saligao and Candolim, in the Bardez taluka, and is just 15 km from Panjim, the capital of the state of Goa.

How to reach Baga beach?
The nearest airport is at Dabolim, which is 29 km away from Panaji. Panaji is just half an hour's drive away from Baga. The nearest railway station is at Karmali 11 km away from Panaji. Panaji is just half an hour's drive away from Calangute.

It is about ten minutes from Mapusa, and thirty minutes from the state capital, Panaji. There are frequent buses to Panaji and Mapusa from Baga and Calangute. Most buses from Panaji terminate at Calangute and a few trudge further on up to Baga. Mapusa is around 8 km away from Baga.

Calangute Beach of GoaCalangute Beach - 12 km (7 miles) northwest of Panaji
Calangute Beach, between Sinquerim and Baga beaches in the Bardez district, is an open stretch of sand with occasional palm trees for patchy shade. The beach is accessible by cement steps. Note the sign warning that swimming is dangerous - there's a fairly strong undertow here. Calangute is bustling; the entrance area is crammed with restaurants, stalls, and shops. During the high season (winter), dozens of shacks pop up on the beach, serving inexpensive alcohol and seafood. Once a peaceful hippie haven, the beach is now crowded and commercial; nonetheless, at night dozens of beach shacks come to life, with lights and music mood.

Where is Calangute beach?
Calangute beach is situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea in the North of India's Goa. It is encircled by Arpora-Nagoa, Saligao and Candolim, in the Bardez taluka, and is just 15 km from Panajim, the capital of the state of Goa.

How to reach?
This beach is a mere thirty minutes bus ride up the coast from the capital, Panaji and is about ten minutes from Mapusa. There are frequent buses to Panaji and Mapusa from Calangute. Most buses from Panaji terminate at Calangute and a few trudge further on up to Baga. Mapusa is 8 km away from Calangute.

The nearest airport is at Dabolim, which is 29 km away from Panaji. The nearest railway station is at Karmali 11 km away from Panaji. Panaji is just half an hour's drive away from Calangute. Private transportation facilities - deluxe, semi-deluxe and ordinary - are also available offering a smooth and hassle free vacations in Goa.

Sinquerim Beach of Goa Sinquerim Goa Beach - 10 km (6.2 miles) northwest of Panaji
Sinquerim is the first beach you'll get to as you head northwest after crossing the Mandvoi from Panaji. Along with Bogmalo, it's one of the few beaches where you can rent windsurfers, water skis, and other water toys without having to be a guest at a hotel. It's much cheaper to rent equipment from these places, but check the condition of the equipment and make sure lifejackets are provided; also check, if possible, with others on the beach to see if the guidance was adequate. Stretching in front of the three Taj resorts, this small, sandy beach can get fairly crowded with tourists and vendors.

Candolim Beach of Goa
Candolim beach is situated in the north of Goa and lies close to the Sinquerim beach. Candolim beach comes as an ideal beach for those who are slowly getting tired of the crowded beaches of Calangute or Anjuna. Though tourists quite often frequent Candolim beach, you can still find some quiet places for yourself. Candolim beach offers a variety of sports activites, right from parasailing to water-sking. There are special guides to help you through these daring water sports activites.

where is Candolim Beach?
Candolim is situated in the north of Goa and lies close to the Sinquerim beach. You can see the Fort Aguada, as this beach is located just below the fort.

How to reach here?
To reach here, you can avail taxi or bus services or better still, hire a bike. For getting back from there, you can try the taxi stands located near the beach offering you services at fixed rates to different places.

Dona Paula Beach of GoaDona Paula beach, associated with a romantic myth, is one of the hottest tourist spot in Goa. The Dona Paula Beach offers an opportunity to the tourists to have a sunbath and buy cheap seaside goods from local vendors. Attracts many tourists and they come here just to feel the sweet pain of love. This beach has also been the location for many Indian movies. Given this dual attraction, Dona Paula Beach has become a popular tourist spots. There are several shops along the beachside, which sell variety of goods ranging from eatables to clothes.

How to reach Goa Dona Paula beach?
The nearest airport is at Dabolim, which is 29 km away from Panaji and 36 km from Anjuna. Goa is connected with Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Mangalore, and Thiruvananthapuram by train. The nearest railway station is at Karmali, which is 15 km from the beach.
The Beach is well connected by road also. Seven kilometers from the capital city, regular bus and taxi services are easily available. The Kadamba Transport Corporation (Government of Goa Undertaking), and Maharashtra and Karnataka State Road Transport Corporations operate buses from and to Goa.

Bus, taxi, auto-rickshaw, and motorcycle services are also the available means of local conveyance in the area. A bus or motorcycle-taxi from Panajim or the ferry service from Mormugao can be availed of to reach the beach. In fact, buses to Dona Paula leave every fifteen minutes from Panajim's Kadamba stand. An interesting mode of conveyance in Goa is the motorcycle taxi. Unique to this state, these "taxis" carry only one passenger. However motorcycles can also be hired for personal use, on the basis of financial guarantee.

Other North Goa Beaches:

Keri Beach
Ashwem Beach
Mandrem Beach
Morjim Beach
Miramar Beach
Vainguinim Beach
Siridao Beach
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Most Popular South Goa Beaches ! Map of South Goa Beaches

Bogmalo Beach of Goa
Bogmalo Goa Beach - 24 km (15 mi) north of Madgaon, 25 km (16 mi) south of Panaji
Pretty, and seldom overcrowded, this tiny crescent of fine sand is perfect for swimming and sunning. It's near a low, verdant hill topped by a few modern buildings on one side and the Bogmalo Beach Resort on the other. Two tiny islands sit about 10 km (6 mi) out to sea. For the most privacy, walk down the beach to the far right - fewer fishing boats, shacks, and people. Another of Bogmalo's assets is its boating and water-sports facilities (diving, jet-skiing). For a lunch break, try the Seagull, a simple, thatched-roof shack right on the beach - they serve some of the best prawn-curry rice in Goa.

Where is Bogmalo beach situated?
The easiest way to describe the location of this beach is that it is situated very close to the airport. From the Dabolim airport, it is only an 18 km drive.

How to reach?
You can reach Bogmalo by bus or taxi from Vasco da Gama which is 8km from Bogmalo. This beach is also situated very close to the airport, and it is 18 km from Dabolim Airport and is well-connected by buses, motorcycle taxis, and taxis.

Consaulim Beach of Goa
Consaulim Goa Beach - 10 km (6.2 mi) northwest of Madgaon
This secluded, quiet, and clean stretch of beach between Bogmallo and Colva has a fine location - close to both Dabolim airport and Madgaon town, and yet away from the crowded north and the congested beaches around Colva. The chief signs of life in these parts are the hotels and resorts in the vicinity, and couple of sleepy villages.

Majorda & Utorda Beach of GoaMajorda & Utorda Goa Beach - 10 km (6 mi) from Madgaon
Just north of Colva beach, Majorda, and nearby Utorda, which have a number of resorts, are rapidly sacrificing peace and quiet to larger volumes of tourists. However, they are cycling distance from Colva and Betalbatim ( 5 km [3 mi] from Colva, 3 km [1.9 mi] from Betalbatim), both known for restaurants and shack life. If you stay here you'll have yourself a good base from which to explore the sights around Madgaon.

Where is Majorda beach?
From Bogmalo down south, there is Majorda beach and the Beach Resort. Can be reached from Colva beach, which is around 8 km away.

How to reach here?
Majorda is located at a distance of 18 km from Dabolim Airport and connected to Margao by buses, motorcycle taxis, and taxis

Colva Beach of Goa
7 km (4 mi) west of Madgaon
Colva Beach, about 6 km (4 mi) west of Madgaon, in the Salcete district, is the most congested beach in south Goa. Its large parking and entrance areas are crowded with shacks selling snacks and souvenirs and young men offering their mopeds for rent. The first 1,000 feet of the beach are hectic - stuffed with vendors, cows, and fishing boats - but the sand, backed by palm groves, stretches in both directions, promising plenty of quieter spots to settle down. The water is good for swimming, with only nominal waves. The restaurant and bar shacks are the hub of nightlife for the entire region.

Where is Colva beach?
This beach is situated approximately 40 kms from Panaji, the capital of Goa. And it is also at a distance of 2km from the Benaulim beach where tourists often go to have some quiet moments.

How to reach?
The nearest airport to reach this beach is Dabolim, which is 29 km away from Panaji and 68 km from Colva. The nearest railway station to reach this beach is at Karmali, 11 km away from Panaji. Panaji is 40 km away from Colva.

Benaulim Beach of Goa 9 km (6 mi) southwest of Madgaon
Just 2 km (1.2 mi) south of Colva is the first of the beautiful, secluded beaches of south Goa - completely unlike the action-packed beaches of the north. Head to Benaulim and farther south only if you want to get away from it all, though at a price, because the resorts are more expensive there. Benaulim village has a small supermarket, and is centered around a crossroads called Maria Hall. The beach is less than a kilometer from the village.

Where is Benaulim beach?
Benaulim beach is situated in south Goa on the shores of the Arabian Sea. It lies 41 km away from Panaji, capital of the Indian state of Goa. This beach is 2km from Colva beach. So once you visit here, then the next stop is bound to be Colva beach.

How to reach here?
The nearest airport to reach is at Dabolim, which is 29 km away from Panaji and 70 km from Benaulim. The nearest railway station is at Karmali, 11 km away from Panaji. Panaji is 41 km away from Benaulim. There are frequent buses from Colva, which is 2km from this beach, running to and from Margao (also Madgaon; which is 8km away from Benaulim) from where one can take a bus to Panaji, which is 33 km further ahead

Agonda Beach of Goa Agonda beach is an almost completely untoched 2km stretch of white sand. It's a great place to chill out if you're feeling mellow and have a stack of good books, but don't come here if you like to spend your afternoons playing beach volleyball and boozing in the beach shacks - with the exception of a couple of restaurants attached to guesthouses, there are none.

Where is Agonda beach?
If you continue driving towards Goa's Panaji from Palolem, the next beach is Agonda beach.

How to reach here?
It is really difficult to reach this beach because it falls a bit away from the main road and no local buses ply here. It also gives an element of solitude at the beach, as you won't find many tourists here. The best way to reach this beach is by a scooter or motors bike.

Palolem Beach of Goa
Palolem is the beach of Goa's southernmost town, Canacona, locally called Chaudi. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa; a shallow bay fringed with white sands and coconut palms, with the village right behind it. At the northern end is a tiny island which you can wade out to at low tide. The hillside beyond is thickly forested. South of Palolem is the Colomb-Patnem Beach.

Where is Palolem beach?
This beach in Goa is situated 2km west of Chaudi and if you are driving in from the southern state of Karnataka and wanted to discover the nearest, reasonably well-known Goan beach, the chances are that you'd be directed to Palolem.

How to reach Palolem beach?
This beach is just 3 km away from Canacona Railway Junction, now on the Konkan Railway. Tourists can take taxis and auto-rickshaws to reach here from Margao, 40 km away. There are regular buses from Margao to Palolem that would drop tourists at Canacona village. Panaji, the capital of Goa, is more than 70 km away.

Other South Goa Beaches:
Velsao Beach
Arossim Beach
Betalbatim Beach
Varca Beach
Fatrade Beach
Mobor-Cavelossim Beach
Betul Beach
Canaguinim Beach
Cola Beach
Colomb Beach
Patnem Beach
Rajbaga Beach
Galjibaga Beach

Hope you got all information related to Goa Beaches to enjoy your holidays ... explore other information on Goa on our site which is your comprehensive guide on Goa Beach Holidays.

TIP: If you really want to enjoy true Goa Vacation, then try your best to stay in any one of the Goa Beach Resorts. You will find many Goa Beach Resorts on Goa Beaches.

Dont Forget: Do remember to attend and enjoy Goa beach parties on the beaches of Goa.

Travelling Tips

Travel Goa:
By any standard, Goa is one of the greatest tropical destinations in the world. In order to maximize your time discovering beautiful Goa India, it is important that you are well informed and prepared before and after you get here. Most of those little details you may need including answers to some of the questions that you may have are listed in this section for your convenience.


Visa
Travel Goa
Everyone needs a visa for India and it must be obtained before you enter the country.Six-month multiple-entry visas (valid from the date of issue) are issued to most nationalities regardless of whether you intend staying that long or are re-entering the country. Visa applications can be made at your nearest embassy or consulate in person or by post. You need to provide a completed visa application form, passport photographs, visa fee and, in some cases, an itinerary and proof of onward travel (such as a flight ticket out of India). Check with your embassy for specific requirements. Many embassies have a website where you can download and print a visa application form and get all the information you need.
Visa fees vary from country to country.

Travel Insurance
Travel Goa
A travel insurance policy to cover theft, loss and medical problems is definitely a wise idea. There is a wide variety of policies and your travel agent will have recommendations. Some policies specifically exclude 'dangerous activities', which can mean motorcycling, and even trekking. This is especially relevant in Goa, where most people hire a scooter or motorcycle at some time. Other increasingly popular activities in Goa are scuba diving and water sports such as water-skiing and paragliding, all of which may require special stipulations when you take out your travel insurance.

Driving Licence & Permits
Travel Goa
If you are considering hiring a car or motorcycle in Goa (as many do), get an international driving permit. While not essential in Goa, the permit will certainly keep you out of trouble if you're stopped by traffic police in Goa India. Contact the automobile association in your own country to get one - obviously you need a valid driving licence to be eligible for it.

Document Copies
Travel Goa
All important documents, (eg. passport data and visa pages, credit cards, travel insurance policy, air/bus/train tickets, driving licence) should be photocopied before you leave home. Leave one copy with someone at home and keep another with you, separate from the originals. It's also a good idea to store details of your vital travel documents in your email address.

Health in Goa
Health facilities are good in the cities and chemists and hospitals are available in larger towns and villages. Local English speaking doctors can be contacted through your hotel or company representative. Standards of sanitation in Goa are generally high, however a few common-sense precautions are in order.

Be wary of food that may have to be reheated. Anything boiled, fried or grilled is usually all right. Raw, unpeeled fruit and vegetables should always be suspected and salads avoided. Bottled water is readily available, titlehough not all bottled water is mineral water and care should be taken when ordering.

Vaccinations
There is no legal requirement for entry to Goa, but meningitis, typhoid and hepatitis A jabs are recommended. It is also advisable to ensure you are up to date with tetanus, polio and other boosters. If you have any concerns your local GP will be happy to give you more advice.

Malaria
Incidence in Goa is relatively small, but it is advisable to take precautions. Take preventative tablets covering the period before and after your trip. It is best to carry a good supply of DEET-based repellent cream/spray. In India ODOMOS cream/lotion is easily available.

Bites and Stings
At night, use mosquito nets and insect repellents to avoid mosquito bites and guard against both malaria and dengue fever. It’s also a good idea to shut all your windows just before dusk, which is when mosquitoes are most likely to enter your room.

You’re unlikely to come across snakes and scorpions, as they’re more scared of you than you are of them, but to be on the safe side don’t let your children play in long grass. Even what appear to be the tamest of animals can give nasty bites, so steer clear of unknown dogs, as rabies is sometimes found among stray or wild ones.

Children Safety in Goa
Children of any age are widely welcomed in India. The only problem for them, especially small ones, is that they are vulnerable and need extra protection from the sun, unsafe drinking water, heat and unfamiliar foods. Rehydration stitles are vital if your child goes down with diarrhoea. It is advisable to ensure that your children are aware of the dangers of rabies and keep away from animals.

Getting Around in Goa
Buses are by far the cheapest way to travel in Goa - they’re usually overcrowded, and rarely seem to follow any particular schedule, but they’re fine for short trips. For longer trips, Goa’s new national railway system will take you around the region and even as far as Bombay - but you may need to book well in advance.

Black and yellow taxis run from official government ranks and have fixed prices; white taxis tend to be based outside hotels and restaurants, but they don’t always have set prices so it’s a good idea to agree a fare with them before you set off.

If you want to do a lot of travelling in a short period of time, it may be cheaper and more convenient to hire a private taxi for a day or half-day.

India's roads can be hazardous due to a combination of poorly maintained vehicles and bad drivers. If you do decide to hire a car please do so with caution, and take care at night, as many buses, lorries and bullock carts are unlit and not easy to spot in the dark.

On Goa Beach
Although Goa’s clear, warm seas are among the most inviting for swimming anywhere in the world, you’ll need to beware of strong under-currents at certain times of the year, especially in the weeks after the monsoons, normally towards the end of September. Don’t try to swim at all during the monsoon season.

Topless bathing is not officially allowed, and nudism is not permitted anywhere. It’s best not to wear swimwear or short shorts in town, to avoid offending the locals.

If a jellyfish stings you, treat the sting with an acid solution such as vinegar or urine, and then immerse the area in water as hot as you can stand; to break down the toxins.

Scorpion fish and lionfish are more dangerous than jellyfish, but you’re less likely to come across these on sandy beaches, as they prefer rocky areas. If you do step on one, treat the sting with hot water, and then see a doctor (G.P.).

If you take food and drink to the beach with you, please take the rubbish back to your hotel to dispose of it. And titlehough you’ll need to drink plenty of bottled water, do remember to bin the empties instead of leaving them on the beach.

Money
Currency
Travel Goa
The Currency Unit in Goa as in the rest of India is the Indian Rupee. Each rupee consists of 100 paise. Currency notes are issued in the denominations of Rs. 1000, Rs. 500, Rs. 100, Rs. 50, Rs. 20, Rs. 10, Rs. 5, Rs. 2, Re. 1. Coins issued are of Rs. 5, Rs. 2, Re. 1, 50 paise, 25 paise, 10 paise denominations.

However you will rarely find the following in circulation: Notes of Rs. 2, Re. 1 and coins of 20 paise, 10 paise, 5 paise. Notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 100 are quite similar in appearance and hence easy to confuse, so always take care while accepting or handing out notes of these denominations.

Travellers Cheques
Travel Goa
All major brands are accepted in India, with American Express (AmEx) and Thomas Cook being the most widely traded. Pounds sterling, euros and US dollars are the safest bet. Charges for changing travllers cheques vary from place to place and bank to bank, but hot competition among private moneychangers means you can usually change cheques commission-free.

ATMs
Travel Goa
Several banks have introduced 24-hour ATMS into Goa and there are more opening each year. These take international cards using the Cirrus, Maestro, Master Card and Visa networks. The main banks with ATMs are ICICI, Centurion, HDFC and UTI. In most cases the ATMs are not actually attached to a bank branch but are installed in shopping areas purely as cash-dispensing machines. They are usually in an air-conditioned cubicle (which you may need your card to access) and are guarded by 24-hour armed security.

Credit Cards
Travel Goa
These are accepted in most major tourist centres, but don't expect to be able to use a card in budget hotels and restaurants. Upmarket hotels accept them, as do most travel agencies and practically all department stores. MasterCard and Visa are the most widely accepted cards. Cash advances on credit cards can be made at branches of Thomas Cook.

Communications
Telephone
Travel Goa
The area code for all places within the state of Goa is 0832, which you only need to dial when calling from outside the state or from a mobile phone. All over Goa, even in the smallest places you'll find private STD/ISD call booths that have direct local, interstate and international dialing.
Mobile Phones
Travel Goa
These have been embraced with a passion in India, and if you intend to spend some time in Goa it may be worth getting hooked up to the local network. Call costs - even international calls - are relatively cheap in India and having a mobile phone means you can easily be contacted at any time, and make calls if you need to. You can bring your own handset and instantly get connected to a prepaid account on one of the local networks.

Faxes
Travel Goa
Faxes can also be sent from many telephone offices.

Email & Internet Access
Travel Goa
Internet and email services in Goa are plentiful, reliable and relatively cheap. In all major towns, beach resorts from Arambol to Palolem, and even some small villages, you'll easily find somewhere to check email. The most common places offering Internet access are travel agencies and STD/ISD phone offices, but you'll also find a few dedicated Internet cafes. Many hotels and guesthouses also offer Internet access for guests.

Electricity
The electric current is 230V to 240V. Plugs have three round pins - similar to some European plugs. Power cuts are frequent occurrences, usually lasting for just a few minutes upto a couple of hours.

Few points to remember
Avoid heat stroke and sunburn by staying out of the sun during the hottest times of the day. Wear loose, comfortable clothes in natural fibers, and always use a good sunscreen.
Steer clear of hiring mopeds and motorbikes, and take great care if you decide to hire a car - India has the worst road safety record in the world.
Don’t leave valuables such as your passport, tickets, money and traveler’s cheques in your hotel room - ideally put them in the hotel safe or a safety deposit box.
Watch what you eat and drink - avoid uncooked or reheated food, peel fruit before eating it, and only drink bottled water.
Government offices are open from 10am to 5pm on Monday to Friday, and on Saturday morning.
Banks are open 10am to 2pm Monday to Friday, and 10am to noon on Saturdays.