Nestled on the western coast of India and sharing its borders with the Arabian Sea lies Indias smallest state, Goa. Smallest in terms of area, the Konkani state tops the list when it comes to tourism. From frantic to frolicis a phrase that best describes a sojourn to Goa. The state has become a tourist hotspot from the turn of the century and is thronged by both Indian as well as International tourists every year who come to the serene state to get out of their busy, mundane and monotonous lifestyles. Goa is known for its flawless and captivating beaches but here are 10 amazing facts about Goa that will make you want to go there right now.
1) Money, Money
Though being the smallest in size, Goa is the richest state in India in terms of GDP. You may assume that a huge chunk of Goas economy is dependent upon its tourism, which is not the case. The Goa economy is supported by the fishing, mining and agricultural businesses as well. Due to this monetary benefit, the government is very well equipped to handle all the responsibilities, making Goa and its infrastructure one of the best in India. Next time, you travel on the roads of Goa, remember to fully analyses them and you will know what I am talking about.
Fishing, Photo by sarangib, CC0 1.0
2) Beaches (Obviously)
Goa is spread across 3,700 sq. km. and only in such a small area, there are a total of 54 beaches, yes you read that right, 54. Goa is simultaneously used with beaches owing to the huge popularity of the beaches. The beach system is divided into two- North Goa beaches and South Goa beaches. In the north, the beaches are thronged by people who may have come with their family or friends. The north is generally cheaper and affordable and more happening than its southern counterpart. Whereas the south has calmer and peaceful beaches which are generally privately owned and more expensive. Famous beaches in the north include Baga beach and Calangute beach whereas the south has Colva beach and Bogmalo beach. To explore beaches of Goa at its best, check: http://www.transindiatravels.com/goa/20-stunning-beaches-of-goa/
Beach, Photo by sarangib, CC0 1.0
3) Religious Places
People coming to Goa often do not realize that there are close to 50 religious places in Goa, if not more. Notorious for its rash parties, the religious places are not usually well cherished. Whether it be the 17th century Baroque Church of Bom Jesus or the Roman Se Cathedral, you will see churches all around Goa owing to the Portuguese influence. Not only churches but temples like The Shanta Durga temple or The Damodar temple are now being recognized. Moreover, there are Masjids and other places of religious importance all throughout Goa, only waiting to be explored. To read more about tourist places in Goa, see: http://www.transindiatravels.com/goa/tourist-places-to-visit-in-goa/
Church, Photo by pexels, CC0 1.0
4) Gamble Away
Goa is only one of the three states in India where you will find Casinos, the other two being Sikkim and Daman (UT). Close to 10 casinos are waiting for you in Goa and what is even more exciting is that 4 of them are floating casinos. Casinos in Goa promise you a very exciting environment when you hold the cards close to your chest. Probably the best place in the whole of the nation for betting, gambling and spinning, the roulette awaits you in Goa. So, if you want a once in a lifetime experience, go to Goa Casinos and try your luck. Who knows you may come out of the door as a millionaire! To fully enjoy the nightlife of Goa, check: http://www.transindiatravels.com/goa/nightlife-in-goa/
Roulette, Photo by meineresterampe, CC0 1.0
5)Konkani Cuisine
People often neglect this aspect of Goa when they travel to Goa. Konkani cuisine is one of the best in the country, predominantly non- vegetarian ingredients constitute the dishes. Also, seafood, fresh from the Arabian Sea, is extensively used in the cuisine and the tantalizing food. Rich with spices, Goan food should surely be given a try. Famous dishes include Humman which is a mix of rice and fish curry and the Feijoada which is a meat stew. Foodies may also go to Goa in April to experience the excellent Food Festival which brings food connoisseurs from all over the world to Goa. Or maybe go to Goa and relish a Prawn curry sitting on the seamless shores of the Baga Beach.
Crab, Photo by Schellack, CC BY 3.0
6) Clean and Green
Almost a third of Goa is covered by flora, making it a very green state. The forests of Goa are a treat to watch. The best time to experience the green cover of Goa is the Monsoon season when the plants are dotted by tiny beads of water and the whiff of the monsoon is in the air making the environment a very serene and soothing one. Nature lovers are sure to enjoy this, away from the noise of the parties and clubs. The cleanliness and green cover of Goa is surely going to soothe and rejuvenate you when you sit in the balcony of your room sipping coffee with a novel in your hand and ahead you are vast, endless wave of green.
Western ghat, Photo by sarangib, CC0 1.0
7)Adventure Sports
If you are a thrill seeker, then Goa is THE place for you. If you feel that sitting in a giant ball and rolling down a cliff is what makes your heart race, then you will love what Goa has to offer. Goa offers a wide platter of adventure sports that will keep you engaged throughout your trip and will definitely satiate your soul which is in constant search for adventure. Whether it be kayaking, yachting, paragliding, free falling or scuba diving; Goa has it all and will make sure your trip to Goa is an adventurous and an exciting one. If you are an adventurous person and love to take risks in life, check some of the best sports that Goa has to offer: http://www.transindiatravels.com/goa/water-sports-in-goa/
Paragliding, Photo by belyakovacat, CC0 1.0
8) Football Fanatics
Cricket is not your thing and you love football, right? In Goa football is like a religion. You would find some of the biggest football clubs in India like Sporting Club de Goa or Salgaocar FC. While travelling across Goa, you would inevitably see boys playing football in their shorts with full dedication. Maybe you can get off and play some football with them, I guarantee you they will welcome you with open arms. I guess then you can tick off football on a beach from your bucket list. An experience which you will remember for your life.
Beach football, Photo by Joshua Singh, CC BY 2.0
9) The Next Wedding Hotspot
Goa is increasingly becoming one of the favorite destinations for weddings. Udaipur and Jodhpur are making way for Goa when it comes to destination weddings. The perfectly casual and serene environment is preferred by couples as it serves to be a memorable way of celebrating the marriage. Goa is also loved by the guests who are mesmerized by the atmosphere. The resplendent environment makes the wedding a truly memorable affair for both the couple and the guests.
Goa wedding, Photo by WHATKNOT, CC0 1.0
10) Bonus Fact
If you have not been to Goa, get a ticket and Go Goa, friends or family you can go along with either, or rather go alone and explore the gorgeous state. Let yourself loose and let your mind and soul dive into the pools of the quietude. And if you have already been to Goa, you know exactly what I am talking about and you cannot wait for the next time you lay your eyes on the gleaming beaches. Such is the sensational feel of the place, such is Goa.
A lot of people dont know this but Goa has three capitals, yes three different capitals. Panaji is the executive capital of Goa and Porvorim is the legislative capital, it sports an outstate judiciary capital- Mumbai. Despite all this the largest city of Goa is Vasco da Gama, named after the founder. If you want a luxurious trip, then stay at one of the best cruises or resorts for a day or two. See: http://www.transindiatravels.com/goa/resorts-in-and-around-goa/
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