Goa, this drop of golden sun on the west coast of India is bestowed upon by innumerable gifts. Picturesque landscape, sun drenched beaches, historic monuments, pleasant climate, culinary expertise and above all, hospitable people. To recount a brief past, Goa has been ruled by many a rulers and emperors; the Mauryas, Satavahanas of Kolhapur, Chalukyas of Badami, Rashtrakutas, Kadambas and Yadavas, under whom it became a part of the Delhi Sultanate. The Portuguese were the last to rule. Their reign spanned from 1510 to 1961, until a political movement launched in the wake of India's Independence in 1947 ultimately led to it's liberation on 19th December, 1961, along with the overland pockets of Daman and Diu, to form a Union Territory. Goa was upgraded to a full fledged State of the Indian Union on 30th May 1987. 

PLACES OF INTEREST :

Apart from the beaches, churches, temples and other historical monuments, Goa has a lot more to offer to visitors, like lakes, wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls, springs, forts, etc. .In fact this place is so full of surprises that everywhere one goes, one is bound to stumble upon something exciting. 

If that is not enough, take a walk through a village to enjoy the rustic ambience, and to be greeted by a cheerful toddy tapper or the local baker. Walk along any beach and you are likely to strike a chat with a muscular fisherman. Stroll along narrow winding streets through verdant fields, and see earnest farmers foiling in the fields along with their trusted bullocks.

BEACHES :

Goan beaches have never ceased to fascinate visitors and locals alike. Miles and miles of coastal enchantment, but one can never get enough of it. Every visit to the beach reveals something new. The roaring waves splash against the sturdy rocks in enduring rhythm in harmony with swaying palms, flocks of playful seagulls, busy fishermen foiling against dramatic sunsets, sights to behold indeed. 

Among the famous ones are Calangute, Colva,Baga, Anjuna, Vagator, Sinquerim etc, the list goes on.

RELIGIOUS PLACES :

The fact that Goa is riddled with temples, churches, mosques, and shrines prove that religion is deep rooted in the psyche of the Goans. So diverse in belief, yet Goans live in a blissful harmony, irrespective of their religion and creed. 

Apart from being places of worship, churches and temples in Goa are a delightful sight because of their aesthetic architectural design, idyllic locations and the tranquil atmosphere. 

Not only are these abodes of worship revered by the locals, but they are also acclaimed the world over ,Some of the discerning ones are Manguesh temple at Mangueshi, the Mahalsa temple at Mardol, Shanta Durga temple at Kaviem, the Jama Masjid at Ponda ,and the World Heritage monuments at Old Goa, such as the Basilica of Born Jesus and Se Cathedral.

FOLK MUSIC : 

One of Goa's most discerning assets isits rich cultural heritage. Its natural beauty and hospitality together with this heritage has put Goa on the international tourist map, and is acclaimed as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. 

Music, dance and folklore are deeply rooted in the heart of Goans, and the rhythm runs in the blood of the people of Goa. 

Goan folklore, which comprises folk songs, dances, music, visual arts and folk tales, are rich in content and variety. The folk music has devotional as well as contemporary overtones, and it displays a lively rhythm. And the folk dances reflect that rhythmic vitality. 

Folk songs and dances are accompanied by a variety of instruments such as Ghumot, Dhol, Cymbals(drums), Flutes, Harmonium, Violins and Guitars. Ghode Modni, Mando, Dekhni, Goff, Talgadi, Shigmo, Tonyamel, Dhangar Dance, Mussal Khel, Jagor, Suvari, Fugdi, and Dhalo,Lamp Dance, Veerbhadra, and Kunbi songs and dances are some of the popular folk dances of Goa, and they are best performed during local festivals in their respective villages. 

FESTIVALS :

Festivals are an integral part of Goa. Almost all of. - them are related to religious activities. Every village 'jatra' or feast is a festival by itself. Apart from these village feasts and fairs, Goa has its share of major festivals. Diwali, Christmas and Ganesh Chaturthiare celebrated with great pomp and gaiety. The Shirigao Jatra, the Fatorpa Jatra, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier at Old Goa, All Saints feast at Goa Velha are some of the other local festivals celebrated in Goa. In fact, festivals are a perennial feature of Goa. 

The most interesting feature is that, all festivals are celebrated by all communities, irrespective of their creed or belief. 

HANDICRAFTS :

Goa does not lag behind in the field of arts and crafts. Art runs in the blood of Goans, and many a folk arts and crafts have joined the mainstream and are commercially produced. They make excellent souvenirs for tourists. Goan handicrafts include creative pottery, shell work, furniture, brass work, bamboo work, papier mache, etc.

These items are crafted by professional artisans in their ethnic ambience, and also by artisans working at the Arts and Crafts Complex run by the Government. They are sold through various handicraft emporia and all major tourist spots.

CULINARY DELIGHTS :

Food in Goa is not just a source of nourishment. It is an art. The people of Goa are very particular about enjoying their food. In other words, it has to satisfy more than the taste buds. 

Goan cuisine has gained appreciation from all over the world. Dishes like Xacuti, Vindaloo, Prawn Balchao, and sweets like Bebinca, Dodol and Doce are a craze among the visitors, who relish them to the last morsel. During feasts and celebrations different type of port wines, red wines and white wines are served along with food. These wines serve as appetisers. However, fish and other seafood remain a favourite of Goans, and is relished by locals and visitors alike. 

The former Portuguese colony of Goa is one of India's most famous destination for tourists. Most important are the wide expanses of beaches this state offers: Calangute, Colva, Anjuna, Baga and Chapora. In old Goa, once a thriving and prosperous city, exist some of the finest of churchesin the country: the Se Cathedral built in the 16th century; the convent and church of St.Francis of Assisi with its gilded, carved woodwork and old murals, dates back to early 1500s; the Basilica of Bom Jesus contains the tomb and mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Goan food, way of life and festivals are other major attractions. Panjim, the state capital, has preserved its heritage remarkably well and part of the city still consists of narrow winding streets, old houses with overhanging balconies, red-tiled roofs and numerous bars and cafes. The people are friendly and the atmosphere is easy-going.