Alorna Fort The Alorna fort is situated in the Village of Alorna which is about 30 km from Mapusa and 10 km east off NH 17 from Malpem in Pernem . It was built by the Bhonsles of Sawantwadi in the 17th century. The fort had four guns and in the year 1746, the fort was captured by Marquis of Castello Novo (later known as Marquis of Alorna) from the Bhonsles. The possession however was short lived. In 1781, the fort was again captured by Dom Frederico Guilherme de Souza. It was used to defend against the Maratha attacks from the north. The fort is presently in a dilapidated condition. It is however a beautiful site to explore as it is perched on the banks of the river Chapora as it flows peacefully towards Colva le. Amthane Dam The Amthane dam lies in a splendid location approximately 20 km from Mapusa . It is not yet developed for tourists and picnickers but is a nice place to unwind. The dam supplies raw water to the nearby Sanquelim water treatment plant. It is not a big one but has a scenic view of the catchment and Sahyadri range beyond from the mouth of the dam. The Amthane dam can be visited by taking the left side of the fork from the Assonora bridge, instead of driving to Bicholim . For accommodation here one can get an eco resort in Sal that offers food and stay. Other places to visit include the Tilari dam which is about 20 km from Dodamarg in Maharashtra. The river Chapora also flows nearby. Ancestral Goa Museum / Big Foot The Ancestral Goa museum/ exhibition is situated in the small Village of Loutolim which is about 10 km from Margao and 25 km from Panaji . The musuem is also known as big foot. It is
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Alorna Fort
The Alorna fort is situated in the Village of Alorna which is about 30 km from Mapusa and 10 km east off NH 17 from Malpem in Pernem. It was built by the Bhonsles of Sawantwadi in the 17th century.
The fort had four guns and in the year 1746, the fort was captured by Marquis of Castello Novo (later known as Marquis of Alorna) from the Bhonsles. The possession however was short lived.
In 1781, the fort was again captured by Dom Frederico Guilherme de Souza. It was used to defend against the Maratha attacks from the north.
The fort is presently in a dilapidated condition. It is however a beautiful site to explore as it is perched on the banks of the river Chapora as it flows peacefully towards Colvale.
Amthane Dam
The Amthane dam lies in a splendid location approximately 20 km from Mapusa. It is not yet developed for tourists and picnickers but is a nice place to unwind.
The dam supplies raw water to the nearby Sanquelim water treatment plant. It is not a big one but has a scenic view of the catchment and Sahyadri range beyond from the mouth of the dam.
The Amthane dam can be visited by taking the left side of the fork from the Assonora bridge, instead of driving to Bicholim. For accommodation here one can get an eco resort in Sal that offers food and stay.
Other places to visit include the Tilari dam which is about 20 km from Dodamarg in Maharashtra. The river Chapora also flows nearby.
Ancestral Goa Museum / Big Foot
The Ancestral Goa museum/ exhibition is situated in the small Village of Loutolim which is about 10 km from Margao and 25 km from Panaji. The musuem is also known as big foot. It is privately run by an artist called Maendra Jocelino Araujo Alvares. The open-air museum recreates Goan rural life as it was a hundred years ago.
At Ancestral Goa there are a number of places to visit such as an art gallery where one can see work done by local children and artists of State and National fame. There is a handicraft centre where one can get some locally made Goan artificats, Big Foot dance floor, Big Foot restaurant, a cross, a spring known as Boca da Vaca, a bird habitat, a spice yard, rubber plantations and lots more.
In this model village one can also see different miniature houses that showcase traditional occupation and social classes such as fishermen, Goan artisans, a Music school known as Escola da Musica, farmers, liquors shops, the village market, and a feni distillery.
The main highlight however at Ancestral Goa is the giant 14 meter sculpture of Sant Mirabai carved in 30 days by MJA Alavres the enterprising artist cum museum owner. This has been cited in the Limca book of records for being the longest laterite sculpture in India.
At Ancestral Goa one is accompanied by a guide who explains the exhibits. Also one can purchase souvenirs on the way out from the handicraft centre. The museum is open on all days from 9 am to 6 pm and has a small entry fee.
Anjunem Dam
The Anjunem Dam is located on the Sanquelim-Belgaum highway in Chorla ghat at about 10 km from the Sanquelim town. It is one of the most idyllic places to enjoy the mystic charm and greenery around.
The dam lies in a sylvan valley formed by the proximity of another peak, Morlemgad to its south-east and below one of Goa's highest peaks, Vagheri hill.
For accommodation, there is a foret department rest house at Keri and an irrigation department rest house above the dam. There is also a private eco resort in Chorla ghat.
The ambience at the Anjunem dam is so enchanting that visitors return to the spot every monsoon or even during other seasons.
Arvalam Waterfalls
The Arvalem or Harvalem waterfalls, which cascades down from the mountains, from a height of 50 metres, is one of the most awe-amazing spots. It is situated at about 2 km from the small town of Sanquelim and 8 km from Bicholim, in North Goa.
The Arvalem Waterfall is a very scenic and beautiful picnic spot. This charming waterfall is a mind-blowing experience, with Rudreshwar Temple in its vicinity. The temple holds importance for the Hindus who believe in releasing the soul on the 12th day after death.
While leaving the temple of Rudreshwar, one can descend the staircase to look at a majestic waterfall shedding its exuberant silvery showers. The beautiful Arvalem fall, with a head of about 24 feet high, forms a sizeable lake at the bottom, which offers a sizeable temptation to seasoned swimmers.
The best time to visit this site is just after the copious monsoon when it presents a rapturous, ravishing and riotous aspect. The water flow here during the monsoon is quite less. It has a lot of greenery all round with fruit laden trees with various fruits such as bananas, bread fruits and coconut palms to name a few.
The ancient caves in the vicinity adds a touch of antiquity to this picturesque place, which finds a major attraction for the film makers as a favourite shooting spot. The Rock cut caves are just situated nearby. The Government has also developed a park from which the view of the waterfall can be peacefully relished.
Arvalem Caves
Just passing the town of Sanquelim, there is a detour road leading towards Arvalem Caves. These caves from the 6th century, are quite small, with no articulate sculptures or paintings.
The origin of these caves is uncertain, some believing them to be of Buddhist origin, although the presence of lingas does not justify this statement claiming them to be of Brahmin origin.
They are also claimed to be known as the Pandava caves, signifying the reign of Pandavas
here during their 12 year exile as described in the Mahabharata. The shafts of the four carved lingas inside the cave resemble to those found at the famous Elephanta and Ellora caves.
The Arvalem caves are very much patterned in the Buddhist cave style, rock cut into laterite stone, with the sanctuary at the northern end and the vihara at the southern end.
The claim of the caves being of Buddhist origin is a justified statement, mainly due to the discovery of a huge Buddha statue nearby and a 4th century Buddha head found in the Mhamai Kamat house now installed in the Goa State Museum.
Banastari Bridge
Banastarim is situated at about 16 kms from Panjim and 12 kms from Ponda in Goa. It has a government school and a sports club. There are three temples in the area as the Village shares a large hindu population. However the village is mainly known for its market which starts filling from Thursday evening and get full by Friday morning every week.
Banastarim is also known for the Meta Bridge. The bridge in Banastarim sometimes called the Banastarim Bridge is an important link to the Tiswadi and Ponda taluka as well as to the Mandovi River. Major of the West Side of Banastarim is surrounded by the river.
Boca De Vaca Spring
Situated next to the Mahalaxmi Temple, the Boca de Vaca spring is one of the two springs that exist in Panaji Goa. The appearance of this Portuguese - built structure that remains aglow with soft decorative light in the evening gives it a name 'Boca De Vaca' literally meaning 'the face of the cow'.
The floor of the well-lit tunnel inside is made of transparent glass and one can see the spring water flowing under your feet. Background Music is also there.
Earlier the Boca de Vaca spring was known to be a major source of supply of water to the city. However even today the people of Panaji queue up here with buckets to use the water, as it is known to have medicinal properties. It is also used for drinking by the people of Panjim.
British Cemetery in Goa
The military or the British cemetery was built in Goa in 1802 by the British. It is considered to be more than 180 years old and is the only reminder of the British occupation of the territory of Goa during the Napoleonic period.
During the Napoleonic wars from 1799 to 1813, the British military cemetery was built to serve the purpose of a British garrison of Rs.10, 000 men who were stationed at Fort Cabo to prevent Goa from falling into French hands.
The cemetery has 56 gravestones and 47 tombstones, the earliest that date to 1808 and the last to 1912. It can be reached by taking the road connecting the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) with the Raj Bhawan.
Near the British cemetery one can visit the Cabo Raj Bhavan also known as the Governor's Palace, which is the official residence of the governor of Goa. Also one can visit the Our Lady of Cabo church that is situated nearby.
The Budbudyanchi Tali or the Bubble lake also known locally as Budbud Talli or Bomadyanchi Talli is located in Netravali in the Sanguem taluka. It is a sacred tank of bubbles attached to the Gopinath temple and appears to be green and very clean.
The Budbudyanchi Tali or the tank of bubbles is well known in Goa as here one can see continuous bubbles rising up to the surface at different spots. There are various legends regarding the origin of these bubbles and according to some it is a miracle of the local deity. However, according to scientists, the bubbles can be caused by sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide, limestone or methane.
The bubbles at the Budbudyanchi Tali are known to strangely increase in intensity if one claps loudly. The tank in form of laterite masonary has a flight of steps all around leading to the sacred tank. A huge box-shaped laterite pedestal is located at the centre of the tank.
Cabo De Rama
Cabo De Rama is situated 16 km north of Agonda beach in the coast road at the south end of Colva Bay. Also known as The Cape of Rama, it takes its name from the Hindu epic Ramayana hero, Lord Rama as according the Hindu belief Lord Rama during his exile from Ayodhya stayed here.
The cape is crowned by a fort which was originally a Hindu structure and rebuilt by the Portuguese in 1763 after acquiring it from the Maratha ruler of Sonda. It had 21 guns for its defense, a chapel, military barracks and quarters for the use of the commandant under the Portuguese.
Also a well was there within the fort and from one of the two springs that it had in its vicinity, cold and hot water used to emerge from two different spouts. It was used as a prison till 1955 after it was taken over by the British from 1792 to 1813. The main entrance has been restored and yellow washed but the fort now lies in ruins.
Cabo Raj Bhavan / Governors Palace
Situated at the end of a narrow cape where the Mandovi and Zuari rivers merge into the sea, the Cabo Raj Bhavan also known as the Governor's Palace, is the official residence of the governor of Goa. After the liberation of Goa it came to be known as the Cabo Raj Niwas.
Built in 1540 AD the Cabo Raj Bhavan was called 'Palacio de Cabo' in the Portuguese times and was the residence of the Governor General. A chapel that is about 500 years old is situated at the corner of the Raj Bhavan, the feast of which is held on 15 August and a big fair is held.
The Raj Bhavan palace was originally built as a fortress to monitor and control the entry of vessels at the mouth of the Mandovi and Zuari rivers and to guard them. It has a fine collection of antique artifacts like Bohemian glass chandeliers and Chinese Porcelain and it is a double story structure. It was taken as the residence of the Governor General in 1866.
At the Cabo Raj Bhavan site one can also visit a small church that was founded in 1541 by the Portuguese which is known as the Our Lady of Cabo church.
The Carambolim Lake is situated approx 2 kms southeast of Old Goa in the Tiswadi taluka. It is excellent place of birding in Goa that supports a large population of herbivorous birds.
Built to facilitate irrigation of the nearby fields, the Carambolim lake is a man made freshwater lake that is situated within walking distance from the Karmali Railway Station. It is a famous bird watching spot in Goa where one can see a lot of species of migratory birds as well as a lot of waterbirds.
Due to the rich ecology at the lake at Carambolim, one can see birds such as waterfowls, egrets, jacanas, moorhens, herons, pintails, open-billed storks, lesser whistling teals, shovelers, garganeys and coots.
The Carambolim Lake is indeed a bird-watcher's paradise where one can see some exotic, migratory birds, which have been flocking here for hundreds of years. One can also see paddy fields, trees and woodland in the area that makes the place very picturesque.
Chapoli Dam
The Chapoli dam is situated 1 km north-east of Chaudi in Canacona. It is approximately 40 km from Margao.
The dam is located in a scenic spot extending westward from the Sahyadris. It makes it an excellent spot to take a break as it lies deep in the valley between hills.
For accommodation, there are no facilities at the dam site, however one can find some good hotels, guesthouses and houses for rent at the Canacona town and Palolem beach that are located nearby.
The area surrounding the Chapoli dam is considered to be a great eco – tourist spot as it is blessed with natural beauty surrounded by small rolling hills in the backdrop. A lot of Fishing can also be done in these dam waters.
The Chapoli dam supplies drinking water to a part of the Canacona taluka. It is not much frequented even though it is only a kilometer from the Canacona town. However it is visited by those who intend to take a good break.
Chapora Fort
Before this present fort build by Portuguese, there was a one fort way long before, even before the arrival of Portuguese in Goa.
In 1683, In order to put the end on Portugal’s rule in Goa, Prince Akbar joined the forces of Marathas, who were bitter enemies of his Father Aurangzeb at that time, revolting against his Father; he sought refuge with them and made this place as their base camp. However Portugal had a scary experience with Marathas, after a horrific recovery from Marathas, Portuguese strengthen harder their Northern Defenses, learning from the experience of Maratha they were required to give the shelter for the people of region, this was not before 1717, that this present fort was built.
An awesome site with all sides having steep slopes. The fort stands above the whole upland area having irregular outer plan, outline of the higher slopes, uses the natural contours to add
defensive height to the fullest advantage instead of dry ditches being dug.
At the top of the steep approach track on the main gate, which is small and unpretentious for so large fort, is deep and narrow. Depending on their position of the defense requirement, the bastions with their enormous embrasures for cannon are irregularly spaced, each having the cylindrical turret that gives a special character.
Few signs are left inside of the barracks and housing, that once were filled this vast area, even St. Anthony church is disappeared, which was built in his name. Now there are only tumble stones, bushes and herds of goat in the wide expanse of open space. A sea down a natural valley to the beach has awesome and marvelous natural access because of rocky promontories protections.
At its first real test, the fort fell to the Marathas. In 1739 held for 2 years by the old enemy of Portuguese, the Maharaja of Sawantwadi the Hindu ruler of Pernem across the river. By the end of the century it lost its military significance when Goa’s border moved northwards, with the acquisition of Pernem as part of the New Conquests. The views in all directions are superb, south over Vagator beach, north across the Chapora river to Pernem and of course, far out to the Arabian Sea in the West. A pleasant place to wander.
Chorao IslandThe Tiswadi island of Chorao is situated 5 kms from Panaji. The earliest settlers of the island were 10 families of the Goud Saraswat Brahmins. The people of the island are today known as the Chodankars. The island was earlier called Chudamani, which means 'stunning precious stone' in Sanskrit. According to the locals who call it Chodan or Chodna, when Yashoda the mother of Lord Krishna threw away diamonds, the islands emerged from them. Later it got the name Ilha dos fidalgos (Island of noblemen) as the Portuguese noblemen found the island a pleasurable place to live.
Amongst the first places to be captured by the Portuguese who called the island Chorao, the Chorao Island is a quaint place that has a whitewashed church and some old villas. The island mystifies many visitors as it is screened by a thick hedge mangrove beyond the aquatic swathe. It is known to be the largest amidst Goa's 17 islands which is also bestowed with rich riverine endowments by the Mandovi and Mapusa rivers jointly.
One can reach the Chorao Island by taking a ferry from Ribandar which is on the road to Old Goa at around 3 km from Panaji. There is also a ferry linking Chorao to Pomburpa on the island's west. One of the roads moves northwards to Mayem and Bicholim and the other road passes uphill by the majestic 16th century church of Sao Bartholomew.
Facing the Arabian Sea, the Sa Bartholomew church was erected in 1569 and founded by the Jesuits. The magnificent landmark reflects the grandeur of Mannerist Neo-Roman architectural style. The church was transferred to the diocesan clergy before 1642 and it was remodeled in 1649. In 1559, the second church dedicated to Our Lady of Grace came up in Maddel. This church was known for its large fairs that were held on the feast day with horses, camels and textiles being traded by foreign merchants.
It is known that in the island of Chorao earlier there existed a branch of a University that was affiliated to the University in Benares. It had its own seat of learning, teaching Sanskrit and ancient literature. On April 2, 1761 when the Oratorians took over the academic responsibilities, a seminary known as Real Colegio de Educacao de Chorao was also established.
The Chorao island also had many ancient temples including Ganesha, Ravalnatha, Bhaukadevi, Mallinatha, Bhagvati, Devki, Santa-Purusha, Barazan, Narayan, Cantessor, Chandeussor and Dadd-Sancol. These were destroyed by the Portuguese and this was the time that the people of Chorao smuggled the deities via Mayem to Naroa and Marcela where they are held.
The Chorao island offers picture postcard views of the towering Old Goa convents. The famous Dr. Salim Ali bird sanctuary is also situated here. However to explore the sanctuary one needs a canoe as the forest department has no operational boats. A number of soft drink stalls are situated on the ferry wharf on Chorao and one of these hires out a canoe with a guide in season that is from October to April.
Churches, Chapels, Temples a varied legacy
Perhaps nowhere are the diverse influences of Goa more dramatic than in the places of worship.
It is not uncommon to come across a temple in the Maratha style, with a distinctively Christian Plan and an Islamic dome! Such contradictions sum up the story of Goa, of the conquistadors and settlers who came and made it their home. They brought with them their languages, their customs, their architectural idioms, and smoothly integrated with the existing traditions.
The Churches of Old Goa, built in the 16th & 17th centuries, are basically in the baroque Renaissance style with some Gothic touches. But the insides are all derived from European as well as Indian elements. The SeCathedral, largest church in Asia is a grand example of the form.
The 80–metre long aisle is a truly imposing sight, with ornamental embellishments culminating in a magnificent gilf altar.
Old Goa – 10 km east of Panaji, is the prime tourist attraction of the State. It was built by Adil Shah, the Sultan of Bijapur.
Basilica of Bom Jesus, - dedicated to infant Jesus, is the most famous churches in Goa. The mortal remains of Saint Francis Xavier kept in a rich casket are enshrined here.
Se Cathedral – is the most imposing church in Goa – its vaulted interior overwhelms the visitors by its sheer grandeur.
The Churches of St. Francis of Assissi has its interior illustrated with exquisite paintings.
Saint Cajetan Church was built in the style of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
Church of our Lady of Rosary – is one of the earliest built churches in Goa.
There are more temples in Goa than churches, important among these are Manguesh temple at Mangueshi, Mahalsa Temple at Mardol, Shanta Durga Temple at Kavlem.
There are not too many mosques in Goa – the most important is the Jama Masjid at Sanguem. Another notable mosque in Goa is the Safa Shahouri Masjid at Ponda.
Devil's Canyon also known as 'Devcharacho kond' in Konkani, is a picturesque river gorge near Molem situated in a beautiful patch of the jungle where the river flows with great turbulence and cuts the deep gorge into solid rock. It is suicidal for swimmers due to the slippery rocks, strong undercurrents and unfathomed depth.
The story about this place is that everyday a Villager used to ask the canyon's resident devil for fish by telling him that he had to entertain some guests. The devil who was curious, one day after following the villager saw him munching on the fish himself. He cursed that from then onward no one will be able to catch fish in the canyon, as he was furious at that time. Till today the curse still stands.
The Devil's Canyon situated near Molem at the Bhagwan Mahaveer Santuary is now a famous spot in Goa. In its jungles one can see some rare sightings of Black Panther and while here one can also visit the Tambdi Surla Temple that is situated nearby. The spot can also visited while on the way to or from the famous Dudhsagar waterfalls.
Divar Island
The beautiful Divar Island that is rarely visited is situated across the Mandovi River from Old Goa. A ferry connects the southern end of the island with Old Goa. The ferry wharf is situated near the Viceroy's Arch at Old Goa.
Another ferry links the northern end of the Divar Island to the Narve or Naroa Village in the Bicholim subdivision which is known for the Saptkoteshwar temple that is one of the most sacred temples of Hindus in Goa. From Panaji to visit the Mayem Lake the Divar Island offers a shortcut.
The picturesque Piedade that has a hill top church built in early 16th century called the Our Lady of Compassion Church is Divar's main and largest village. Here one can have views of the churches of Old Goa. Also during the Kadamba time on this site an ancient Ganesh Temple existed.
The Divar Island is also well known in Goa due to a festival celebrated here known as the Bonderam festival. The villagers observe this feast on the last Saturday of August. This feast is also known as the feast of the harvest or the festival of flags. Here after returning home the emigrant workers wave the flags of their adopted countries while marching through the village.
Dudhsagar Waterfall
The Dudh Sagar waterfall is situated in the Indian state of Goa in Sanguem taluka. It is located 60 kms from the capital city of Panaji and is well connected with Panjim and Margao through a rail and road network. Dudhsagar is even accessible through buses and taxis which can be taken from Panaji city.
Perched on the lofty peaks of the Western Ghats, the Dudh Sagar waterfalls offer unrivalled beauty, and amazing scenery full of exquisite charms when in full flux after the monsoon showers. Like an idyllic Eden cradled luxuriously in the mountains, the Dudh Sagar waterfalls, which from a distance appear like milky streams, gradually climax into a gushing
cascade as they come into full view of the onlookers.
Dudhsagar literally means ocean of milk. This is one of Goa’s most attractive and ideal picnic spots mainly offering charismatic natural beauty and amazing scenery when in full flow after the monsoons. The waterfall initially appears like streams of milk flowing down the mountain which later culminate into gushing cascades after they come in full view of the awestruck visitors. It is perched on the lofty heights of the Western Ghats and falls from a height of 603 meters. The celestial intervention in the origin of these waterfalls adds a mystic significance to Dudhsagar, almost like a dream come true. Even words are too less to describe this stupendous charisma of mythical fascination which is almost similar to a second Eden cradled luxuriously in the mountains.
There is a myth associated with Dudh sager waterfalls. Years ago there lived a powerful and rich king on the top of a mountain in the Western Ghats along the Goan frontier. He lived in a lavish palace made of pure ivory and embedded by precious stones. Near this palace, there were luxuriant gardens abounding in a vast variety of flowers.
At one end of the forest, which fringed the king's palace, there was a picturesque lake. In the panoramic setting of this lake, the king's daughter, accompanied by her ladies-in-waiting, went to bathe and to sip sugared milk which one of her maids served to her in a pure gold jug.
One day, while she was sipping at the milk, a prince, who was passing by, stopped on hearing the sound of people nearby. Immediately, the princess poured the milk in the pond to shield her body from the glances of the stranger. It is believed that the sugared milk that was poured by the virtuous and modest princess still comes flowing down in torrents along that side of the mountain.
Dudh Sagar waterfalls with their strange, mystical fascination are a dream come true. The uneclipsed vision, furnished by this native waterfall as it plunges over crag-covered precipes and stupendous steeps, belies description.
Fort Aguada
The Fort Aguada is one of the largest and impressive forts preserved as one of the best known landmarks in Goan history. Its prominence has grown from the fact that its headland on which it is built offers a wonderful site for military architects due to its shielding of the vital sea access from the heart of the Portuguese territory thereby making it an ideal site for seaward as well as landward defense.
The elimination of the Maratha threat and the acquisition of the New Conquest added more glory to its importance right upto the end of the 18th century when Goa's future borders were established. The most vital part of it was its impregnability to survive attacks by enemies through land or sea or simultaneously from both sides which often happened.
The most feared threat for the Portuguese came from the Europeans in the east, which came true when a Dutch squadron approached the Mandovi in 1604. The Reis Magos Fort, Gaspar Dias Fort and the Cabo Fort proved to be futile in keeping them at bay and though eventually warded off, the Dutch succeeded in burning quite a number of Portuguese ships. In 1606, they returned back and settled at the entrance of the river, blocking the harbour and preventing the entry or departure of all the ships.
A kilometer south west of the KTC bus stand in Panaji is the Goa State Museum. The museum is open from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm Monday to Friday.
The State Musuem in Goa includes various items like copper plate inscription of Kadamba Kings, wooden statues of Christian saints, stone and bronze sculpture, terracotta objects of Indus valley civilization, contemporary art, furniture used by the Portuguese governor, a massive 18th century wooden chariot from the Chandreshwar Temple near Margao and miniature Mughal paintings.
At the state museum in Goa a 16th century huge carved table around which the feared Inquisitors of Old Goa sat to judge those accused of heresy is a prize exhibit. The museum also displays a lot of lottery machines from the Portuguese times.
Kuskem Waterfall
The Kuskem waterfall is located in the Canacona taluka in South Goa. It is situated in idyllic Kuskem Village at about 20 km from the Cotigao wildlife sanctuary off NH 17.
The waterfall at Kuskem is not very well known like the other waterfalls in Goa such as the Dudhsagar and Harvalem waterfalls. It is best visited only during the rainy season as it dries out during the summers. The water falls from a lofty source leaving a clear leap of milky water.
Kuskem is located at around 12km from Hathipal, the entry point of the Cotigao Wildlife sanctuary. It is an ideal place to unwind and for accommodation one can get the forest department's eco cottages at the sanctuary. One can also visit an ancient temple nearby which is well worth exploring.
The Kuskem waterfall can be visited whilst on the way to the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary which is the state's second largest after the Bhagwan Mahaveer wildlife sanctuary. The Anvli waterfall is also located nearby, however it is not easily accessible.
Lamgau Caves
Yet another famous tourist spot which cannot be missed out are the caves at Lamgau. These can be approached in 2 ways.
The first being the road through Lamgau Village itself, and a quite strenuous trek along the base of the hill, and the second one being much easier which is the drive through Bicholim on the road towards Mapusa. Following the directions of the Pandava caves, a path through some paddy fields lead to 2 rock cut caves of Buddhist origin.
The one nearest to Lamgau is small but quite artistic in design. A distant view is impossible due to the growth of areca palms in front of the caves. A small stream adds to the silent atmosphere all around.
In this cave, there is a stone linga installed with a tulsi vrindavan and a small nandi Bull image in the simple courtyard. The other cave is much more larger and used mostly as a shelter against monsoon and is quite deep with a complicated passage. There are some huge open cast iron ore mines just above the caves wherein the odd rumbling reminds one of the other side of Bicholim town. All along the journey to Mapusa is made more interesting with
the presence of many more delightful temples and villages.
There is an interesting temple at Mulgao dedicated to Lord Ravalnath. It is quite ironical that one can find two temples near Assonora after crossing Bicholim into Bardez Taluka. The diversion to the right side of the road leads to Advalpali where the Maruti temple is situated with beautiful graffiti designs both internally and externally. Also found here are lion statues, flower patterns and a statue of Lord Hanuman himself. The temple is aptly surrounded by pipal trees.
List of Beaches In Goa
Candolim beachSituated in the north region of Goa, it is therefore becomes the first beach that can be
accessed from the capital city Panaji. Can dolim-best beach in Goa that attracts peace lovers towards itself as it is untouched by the crowd that comes to Goa. Though not many facilities are available on the beach but it is the perfect place to meditate. Do hire a beach umbrella as it will help you to have a comfortable stay. Also to satisfy the needs of the taste buds, try out the delicious food available in the beach shacks. Besides fishing adventure lovers should try the Water Sports-like, Parasailing and Water skiing.
Palolem BeachSobriquet as the paradise beach, it is the most stunning coastline in the whole area is among the Goa’s best beaches. The easy hut accommodation facility has prettified the beach
. Here you get a chance to try your hands on some exciting water activities like boat cruises, diving and bike tours. The restaurants offer amazing wine and local attraction fenny along with scrumptious cuisines.
The famous resorts of the area like- Brendon Resort, Alessandra resort are the luxurious options to go ahead with however the easiest accommodation is the beach hut which is your chance to live life like a Goan.
Baga BeachLocated on the west coast of Goa by the sides of Arabian Sea, Baga beach is quite a hit for its water sports and fishing excursions. The unharmed beauty of the beach environment fascinates a lot of tourists towards itself. Besides this it has a spectacular retreat house calmly
located at the top of a hill.
It can also be regarded as the bon vivant destination of Goa with delicious food being served in its beach shacks to delightful pizzerias and terrace cafes.The day spent in the arms of pure
beaches is juxtaposed by the vibrant night life of the region. Other than this, candle light dinner is quite an interesting alternative.
Mabor BeachMabor Beach is located to south of the Cavelossim beach and village of Benaulim which is
Goa’s one of the most clean and quiet beaches.
This place is famous for its luxury resorts and highly celebrated night life. Adventurous tourist found delight in activities like parasailing, biking and bump rides. Variety of Goan dishes and sea food are available at the several beach shacks.
Aguada BeachThis beach is famous for its Historical site Aguada Fort which was built by the Portuguese to shield Goa from the foreign incursions. The place is also quite known for its
Reis Magos Fort along with the beautifull y built Reis Magos Church that offers a spectacular view of the Mandovi River. The Aguada is suitable for those who wish to spend some peaceful time watching the foamy waves teasing the shores. Fine soft golden sands and blue waters add it to the list of pristine beaches of Goa.
Dona Paula BeachLocated 7-km from Panjim is the Goa’s Dona Paula beach which is special as compared to other beaches as it is bathed by both the Goan Sea and rivers. There is this interesting myth related to the beach that it is haunted by Dona Paula de Menezes lost love and hence the
atmosphere is a fusion of love and myth.
Governor of Goa resides here in the Cabo Raj Bhavan. To research about the diverse marine biology, The National Oceanographic Institute was set up here and has become one of the major tourist attractions. About 9-km from Dona Paula beach, the Choro Island along the Mandovi River has exotic Salim Ali bird sanctuary.
Straw hats, lace kerchief, spices, feni, port wine, Indian handicrafts and jewelry are the items you can shop for in the market of Dona Paula.
Miramar BeachIt is just a kilometer away from Dona Paula. It is an exquisite golden beach of soft sand complimented by a thick grove of shady palms, in front of the blue Arabian Sea. It derives it
name from Portuguese word tha t means looking at the sea and the fact that it provides a scenic view of the sea.
When moonlight falls on the soft and silvery sand bed, sparkling effect is created which capture the hearts of the visitors. All the essential facilities like resorts, good restaurants, shopping places, adventurous activities and sightseeing is available here. The memorial to Goa’s first chief minister along with Dhempe College of Arts and Science are other places worth a visit.
Colva- Benaulim BeachColva- Benaulim Beach also called Colva is one of the prettiest beaches of Goa.
Occupied majorly by newly wedded couples and international tourists this beach offers serene beauty and calmness that takes the tourists closer to the nature. The unique feature of this beach is its white sand beach that is stretched 20km towards south of Goa. One can also visit the famous Our Lady of Mercy Church.
Varca/Cavelossium BeachSituated 2km away from the Colva Beach, the Varca Beach is highly popular among the tourist for its dolphin spotting trip. One can book the boat rides that take them a little far
away into the sea where dolphins can be spotted.
The beach is marked by the presence of wooden shacks and thatched roof houses. Apart from the famous beach resorts one can opt for family houses as well. The Varka beach is just a few minutes away from the Dabolim airport. For road transports there are plenty of buses, cabs and auto rickshaws. For intercity travel purposes there are numerous scooters and cycles that can be hired from the locals
Anjuna BeachAnjuna beach is located 8-km west of Mapusa and enjoys a good status as a famous and best beach in Goa. It is crowded by monks, artists, travelers or fun lovers who are there for a rejuvenating experience. Famous for its night long beach parties, festivities it has a special place in the hearts of young visitors.
One can enjoy here best western seafood, shopping in the beachside markets and fresh fruit buys such as watermelons, pineapples and locally grown coconuts. 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’s Anjuna beach.
The Madei Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Sattari takula in North Goa. It is spread over an area of 208 sq km and is a link between the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and the Sawantwadi forests in Maharashtra and the Netravali wildlife sanctuary in Eastern Goa.
The Madei Wildlife Sanctuary together with the Netravali wildlife sanctuary cover an area of 420 sq. km. The sanctuary supports a rich variety of wildlife and covers much of the north-eastern portions of Goa. It is also known to be a bird watcher's paradise where one can see a lot of species of birds.
The Mhadei wildlife sanctuary is also famous for its semi green and evergreen forests. The area has been notified as protected for wildlife. The sanctuary is also well known in Goa as a tigress and a cub were spotted here. A lot of other wildlife can also be seen here.
Mapusa Market
A famous market and fondly known as ‘Mapusa Friday Market’ as it is taken place every Friday. This is fully crowded and lively being loaded with wide variety shopping, as every inch of place is booked by sellers given a very little space for buyers to move since regular stalls are booked with temporary mats and boards.
You’ll find all kind of requirements from lottery stalls to barbers shops, fruits stalls to vegetable stalls, there is fish street as well as dry fish stalls with all kinds of fish.
You’ll find all types of fruits and as well as vegetables, attractively displayed some of them being Moira Bananas, Mangoes, Chikkus, Watermelons, pumpkins, cabbage well depending on seasons. There is also a spice street and bakery section.
Different types of handicrafts made of coir, clothes stalls, glass bangles, sausages, channa baskets, meat market are added features of the Mapusa Market. Every place you’ll find bars and restaurants or tea stalls serving refreshments.
Maya Lake
Maya Lake also known as Mayem Lake is situated in Mayem in the Bicholim taluka of North Goa. It is a popular tourist spot in Goa for boating. The beautiful Maya lake is located 7 kms from the Saptakoteshwar Temple and is a famous picnic spot for the locals of Goa and tourists alike. On the roadside there are vendors dealing in Goan handicrafts and refreshments boasting of delicious coconut water.
When visiting the Mayem Lake, a trip to the famous Chamundi temple at Piligao is worth a visit. The image of the Chamunda goddess was originally brought from a temple in Goa Velha which was ruined by the invasions of the Muslim ruler, Malik Kafur in 1312. This temple is very old, although having been rebuilt a number of times. The temple tank is quite large and in its centre is a platform stone with ancient carvings.
The crossroads leading from here proceeds towards the Mayem Lake. It leads through a beautiful and natural array of cashew trees surrounding hills and valleys, areca nut palm trees with betel leaves and pineapple plantations. An occasional glimpse towards the coast, one can see the capital of Panjim with the Mandovi River in the far distance.
Nanus or Nanuz Fort is located in the Satari taluka of North Goa. It is now in ruins but is known as a historical fort that was built in the seventeenth century.
The Nanus Fort is known to be built by Shivaji. However it was later snatched by the Portuguese. During the revolts in the earlier times it was used as a military base by Dipaji Rane after he captured it.
During the reign of the Ranes also the Nanus fort was again captured by soldiers from Quepem, along with those from Panaji barracks.
Today however one can only see the ruins of the fort. The place can be reached by bike or taxi but inorder to reach the fort one has to climb a small hillock. Valpoi is the nearest place one can visit.
Vintage Car Museum
Ashvek Vintage World is a Vintage Car Museum situated in Nuvem, Salcete, Goa. It is Goa's first and only vintage car museum that showcases over a dozen vintage cars sourced from Goa or neighboring areas like Kholapur, Belgam and Sawantwadi.
Situated on the Panaji – Madgaon highway, the Ashvek Vintage World museum was set up by Pradeep Naik to spread awareness about vintage cars amongst the youth. It takes up restoration and preservation of vintage cars and some of the cars restored here are in excellent working condition and can be hired out for weddings, movie shoots or simply for joy rides.
At the Vintage Car museum one can see models such as the Chevrolet Fleet master that was popular in the 1930's America as Mafia staff car, Mercedes Benz 170 of 1939 vintage which was actually used in the movie Sea Wolves Morris Van Essex (1924), Ford V8, Peugeot 301, Austin 1928 and the Morris 8.
The museum also displays the Vidal Tempo of 1936 sourced from the Maharaja of Sawantwadi that is one of the most interesting one built as command car of the Nazi army. It is the car with two engines - the only in the world and is also the world's first four wheel drive.
The Ashvek Vintage World is also a pioneer in organizing vintage car rallies in Goa. The money sourced from restoration and preservation is reinvested in maintaining new and existing cars. The museum is open all days from 9am to 6pm except for Sundays.
