Goa beyond Beaches!!

Goa is a wonderful place, but tourists fail to realize that Goa is beyond its popular beaches and night life. There are many other places and activities one can try other than those which are usually mentioned in a travel brochure.

The real life of Goa is not just limited to its night life. Goa is a place which is a mix of both traditional and western culture which is because of the tourists who visit the place.

Goa has beautiful temples situated in the North Goa. This area has temples which with their rich heritage and beautiful architecture whisper the history of Goan traditions. At the time of any festival, these temples are decorated and visited by goans dressed in the traditional dresses; traditional dishes are served as the Prasad in the temples. Foreigners are very fascinated to see them as they depict the real culture of India and the architectural aspects of these temples are unique and memorizing.

PANJIM CITY: Also known as panaji to many, it’s the capital of Goa and has a heavenly appeal to it. It is situated on the banks of Mandovi River. It is a clean and well maintained area in Goa which houses the head offices of most business concerns. Panjim has one of the oldest medical schools build by the Portuguese.  There are numerous bars and cafes in Panaji and the best way to experience the place is to take a walk or just watch the sunset on the long boulevard along River Mandovi’s edge. The church on the main square, the Baroque architecture, pretty villas, cobbled streets and interesting buildings give Panaji that ambient Portuguese atmosphere while maintaining its position as capital of the country’s wealthiest state.

Heart of panjim is the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. It’s one of the first churches built in Goa. It’s known for its perfect location and impressive architecture. From the top entire view of the city can be seen.

CARNIVALS: The Carnival celebrations in February include a colourful parade on the streets. This is followed by the Holi. The Narkasur parade on previous night of Dipavali in the city is very colourful.One must not miss the opportunity to attend the colourful carnival parade.The one i saw had different groups who represented the various aspects of the Goan

culture like the fishery industry and tourism,the festivals and traditions of Goa.The whole city was full of enthusiasm and decorated giving the feeling of a huge celebration.At this time various stalls are put up which serve exotic dishes and cocktails so that the crowd can enjoy the festival to the fullest.

CASINOS: Panjim is the only city where Casinos are allowed and are legal. Entry to these casinos is not just for rich business men but young crowd is often seen at these places just for experiencing the feel of playing and getting the taste of night life which Goa provides. Its a great experience as the view of the city from casinos is spectacular. The game goes on the the whole night along with free food and drinks followed by the buffet.

MORNING RIDES: The one thing which you must not miss when in Goa is the early morning bike rides with your loved ones. Don’t waste your time sleeping because you will miss the beautiful sights which nature has to provide. Goa has such landscapes which will leave you amazed; the dawn time is the best in Goa. As it gets really hot during the day time its best to explore Goa during dawn where you can stop by at any street shop and enjoy your morning tea and eggs. Believe me its a different experience altogether.

GO KARTING: Its not just beaches and forts which will amaze you but if you are looking for some adventure then Goa has GO KARTING to provide. Its not a big track but it will surely give you enough adreline rush.

WATERFALLS: Apart from its extraordinary beaches and beautiful landscapes,Goa has various forest regions and is known for its wide range of fauna and flora.Their are many waterfalls in all the regions of this state.The most popular is dudhsagar waterfall.But there are many more smaller waterfalls which are situated in the interiors of Goa.The location of such waterfalls requires trekking as they are inside the lush green forests.One must be really careful while trekking as their may be snakes and insects.One must  take a first aid kit along when going on such trips.

HERITAGE SITES: Goa also has spectacular heritage sites in the form of its forts and churches which have beautiful architecture. The pictures included below are of the churches in old Goa.

BEACHES: Finally the most sought after spot in Goa, the peaceful beaches which help its visitors to escape from all of their worldly tensions and gather extraordinary moments which one can cherish life long.One can easily hire a bike or a car and explore all of Goa’s beaches.Shacks located on these beaches provide all exotic dishes and drinks.Their are water sports for your entertainment and street markets near the beach areas.