Goa Map | Map of Goa - State, Districts Information and Facts (original) (raw)
Situated in the Konkan region, Goa is the smallest state in India by area, and population-wise it is the fourth-smallest state in the country. It shares its boundaries with Maharashtra to the north and Karnataka to the east and south, with the Arabian Sea forming its western coast.
Synonymous with tourism in India, Goa remains one of the favourite tourist destinations for millions across the globe.
The state has two districts North Goa and South Goa, famous for topographical beauty. This tiny state is situated in the western coastal region of the Indian Peninsula. Geographically it bears a striking resemblance to its neighbouring states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. It lies between 15°48'00" north to 14°53'54" north latitudes and 74° 20'13" east to 73° 40'33" east longitudes. The one unique feature about the geography of Goa is that it is a seamless concoction of mountainous, plateau regions and coastal plains.
Panaji is the capital of Goa. It means land that never floods. It is the capital and most popular city in Goa, located on the Mandovi estuary of North Goa. It is the third-largest city in Goa, which is home to a population of about 40,017 (2011 census). A quaint little city that is built in Latin style, Panaji City in Goa is for all those who enjoy an English charm and feel.
Named after the famous explorer Vasco da Gama, Vasco is the largest city in Goa. Lying on the western edge of the Mormugao peninsula, the Vasco da Gama City dates back to 1543. The distance between South Goa and Panaji is almost 30 km. It is a major port in the state that serves as an important commercial point for numerous vessels to and from Goa.
Goa lies in the South-Western part of India. It is the smallest state in India, spreading over an area of 3,702 sq km. A perfect blend of the colonial and modern charm, Goa manages to take your heart away. Reputed for its infrastructure, cuisine, historical monuments, and unique culture, Goa has become a one-stop tourist spot for millions of foreign and domestic travellers. Blessed in terms of natural beauty, the beaches in Goa cover a chunk of its total coastline. Goa is just not restricted to fun and enjoyment. It is also a one-stop pilgrimage center for millions of Christians across the globe.
Goa, by far, is among the most frequented tourist destinations in India. Considered as one of the best tourist destinations in the country, this beach island witnesses a large number of travellers from India and abroad alike. To facilitate proper lodging, Goa has numerous hotels that range from luxury to the budget. The hotels in Goa have a remarkable reputation serving tourists over the years. Most of the hotels are situated close to the well-known beaches that offer panoramic views of the city. Some of the well known Goa hotels are; Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa Dona Alcina Resort Hotel Park Plaza, The Majestic Hotels Goa, Coconut Grove Hotel Goa, etc.
History of Goa
Goa is one of the Indian states that remained under colonial rule for 451 years. The history of Goa dates back to the 3rd century. Several dynasties ruled over Goa: Mauryas was the first, then followed by the Satvahanas, Chalukyas, and in the end, the Shilharas and Kadambas. Goa passed into the hands of the Mughals in 1312. In 1510, the Portuguese captured Goa, and in 1961 Goa attained freedom from the Portuguese. However, in 1987 it got the status of statehood.
Goa has numerous historical monuments and eye-catching sights. For the historically inclined, Goa is just ethereal. There are several Churches in Goa that testify to the rich historical past of the city. Some of the famous Churches in Goa are; Mary Immaculate Conception, Reis Magos Church, St. Anne Church, Church of St. Augustine, St. Paul Church, etc. Goa is also home to numerous forts and museums that offer glimpses of a culturally rich state.
Weather in Goa
The weather in Goa somehow remains moderate. Goa lies in the tropical zone and is also bordered by the Arabian Sea on the West. It experiences hot and humid weather throughout the year. But the one good thing about the state is that its temperature is always under control. Neither do the summers get very hot or do the winters get extremely cold.
Beaches in Goa
Goa is home to some of the finest beaches in the world. One of the reasons for the popularity of Goa is its sun-kissed beaches. The Goa beaches have an abundance of not only clear waters and shimmering sands but flea markets and open shacks that sell mouthwatering Goan cuisine along with a whole lot of music and dance. Goa has two parts North and South. The beaches are also divided accordingly.
The beaches in North Goa are meant for the party lovers, whereas the South Goa beaches are more serene and tranquil and act as ideal spots for couples in search of privacy. Some of the most stunning beaches in Goa are Candolim Beach, Baga, Arambol, Vagator, Benaulim Beach, and Palolem Beach.
Tourist Attractions in Goa
- Fort Aguada
- Basilica de Bom Jesus
- Chapora Fort
- Secretariat from the array of history and culture
- Church & Convent of St Francis of Assisi
- Church of Our Lady of the Rosary and Royal Chapel of St Anthony
- Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
- Ancestral Goa museum
- Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and
- Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
When to Visit Goa
Tourists mostly flock to Goa during the winter months. Another good time to visit Goa would be during the Monsoons. Planning a trip to this state should be avoided in May as this is the hottest month with the mercury shooting up to 35 °C.
How to Reach Goa
Goa is well-connected by a broad network. Travelling to Goa is extremely easy as it is connected with several national and state highways. The roads in Goa are pretty decent, which makes travelling a lot easier. The best way to travel to Goa is by bus from Mumbai or Pune. The journey is very smooth and offers some of the most enthralling visual sights.
Goa is well linked to the other parts of the country by rail. Cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Pune share a strong railway network with Goa. Numerous trains travel to Goa almost daily from these cities. Some of the trains that travel frequently to Goa include; the Mas Vasco Express, Cstm Karwar Express, Cstm Karwar Spl, and the Ernakulam Express. Trains from Mumbai generally take about 9 hours to Goa. Goa has two major railway stations situated at Margao and Vasco-da-Gama.
The best way to travel to Goa is by flight. Almost all the important cities in India share a good air network with Goa.
Most of the domestic and international flights fly to and from Goa. Some of the popular flights to Goa include; Air India, Spicejet, Jet Airways, Indian Airlines, Indigo, Air Deccan, and Go Air.
| Goa State Information | |
|---|---|
| Capital | Panaji |
| Date of formation | 30 May, 1987 |
| Governor | P.S. Sreedharan Pillai |
| Chief Minister | Pramod Sawant |
| Tourist attractions | Anjuna, Arambol, Basilica of Born Jesus, Se Cathedral |
| Festivals | Carnival, Feast of St. Francis Xavier, Shigmotsav, Bonderam Festival |
| Major dance and music forms | Shigmo dance, Manddo, Durpod |
| Arts and crafts | Terracotta or baked clay figurines, utensils etc; crochet tablecloths, curtains, covers, handkerchiefs; cane and bamboo fish traps, mats, baskets. |
| Languages | Konkani, Marathi |
| Size | 3,702 sq. km |
| Population (Census 2011) | 1458545 |
| Rivers | Mandovi, Zuari, Terekhol, Chapora, Sal, and others |
| Forests and wildlife sanctuaries | Bondla WS, Mollem NP, Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Cotigoa WS, and many more |
| State animal | Gaur |
| State bird | Flame-throated bulbul |
| State tree | Coconut palm Cocos nucifera Matti Terminalia crenulata |
| Major crops | Paddy, ragi, maize, cashew |
| Factoids | Goa, Daman and Diu were liberated in 1961 and officially became a part of India in 1962. |
| No. of District | 2 |
Blogs about Goa
Fort Aguada – A Glimpse Into History : Fort Aguada, a picturesque fort situated on Sinquerim beach in Goa, was constructed in 1612. Its name derives from the Portuguese word "Aguada," meaning "Watering Place." The fort was built by the Portuguese rulers of the time to provide a fresh water supply to passing ships in the Arabian Sea. The fort's premises evoke a sense of nostalgia, as it has been a popular filming location for numerous Bollywood movies. Fort Aguada consists of a…
December, the month of Goa! New Year : Long stretches of glistening silver sand dampened by the ebb and flow of the Arabian sea; mild breezes caressing the face; lustrous evenings at the night bazaars; fun and gaiety over-whelming every soul, lyrically grooving bodies of the high-spirited music lovers; zonking innumerable shots of the local feni, enjoying, singing, relaxing, drifting into another world- This is Goa in the month of December! Goa has always been the most favorite tourist destination in India. When…
The Mystical Charisma of the Baga Beach in Goa, Know Where is it Located : Location: North Goa Goa, an endearing paradise of scenic charm, is famous for its mesmerizing beaches all over the world. With glistening sands, sky-high coconut trees, majestic sea waves and delectable seafood, Goa has so much to offer. It is blessed with a number of exotic beaches, yet as we think of Goa the first name that comes to mind is the super-adventurous Baga Beach. Anybody who has had a chance to witness the beauty…
North Goa Top Restaurants/Cafes for Travelers – Best Places to Eat in North Goa : One of the most popular tourist destinations in India is the coastal city of Goa. People from all over the world visit Goa to experience and enjoy its beaches, adventure sports, and parties. It is also well known for its long Portuguese history and alluring architecture. Especially North Goa has a lot to offer - from popular beaches to famous eateries, it is an ultimate hangout place. And in terms of food, from Goan Fish…
Here is How State Governments Have Acted to Combat COVID-19 India : ? (Above is a map of India depicting the state-wise breakup of coronavirus cases in India) Various state governments have taken several steps in the backdrop of the deadly coronavirus outbreak across the country. Many welfare measures were taken so that the livelihoods of daily wage workers should not be affected. Various state governments have also asked private firms to continue the salary to their staffs despite the slowdown of the economy. Here is a…
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Last Updated on: May 13, 2022