Tourist Cities in Goa

Tourism and Goa are synonymous with each other. Goa is one of the most preferred places of holiday in India. It may not be the state to receive maximum number of tourists in India but the state is well known to receive international tourists on a large scale, more than probably any other state in the country. Thus, it is evident that tourism is the main source of income for the state government as well as residents who rely heavily on the tourists to boost of their trade. Notably, Goa is the state with the highest GDP in India.

Tourist Attractions in Goa

What is that helps the state to make such a strong impact on the tourists that brings them back time and again? The sun kissed beaches of the state are an obvious attraction. Agonda, Candolim, Calangute, Dona Paula are some of the Goa beaches that are most inviting. However, these are not the only beaches in the state. The beaches are known to witness a massive footfall throughout the year. Besides, the churches in the state are the living reminiscent of the Portuguese rule in the state of Goa. The beautifully adorned churches are one of the major contributors that led the state earn the sobriquet of "Pearl of the Orient". Few of the most renowned churches in the state include Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Augustine church, Church of St Francis of Assisi among several others. The State is infamous for its unending carnivals and parties. The New Year, Christmas parties and the Sunburn festival in the state of Goa are centre of attraction for a massive crowd, many a times comprising of celebrities all across India.

Dona Paula:

The place is named after Dona Paula de Menzes, daughter of a viceroy in colonial India. It is said that she threw herself off the cliff, when refused permission to marry a local fisherman, Gaspar Dias. Dona Paula is located seven kilometers west of the Indian state of Goa's capital Panaji. Dona Paula Beach is nestled on the southern side of the rocky hammer-shaped headlands that divide the Zuari and Mandovi estuaries.

Mapusa:

A small town clustered around the Mount (Alto), Mapusa is the place from where you can buy things of every day need. It forms the hub of North Goa with an even blend of residential and commercial establishments. Its 13 kms away from Panaji, a share-taxi or a bus will take you there. Known popularly for its Friday market, people from all over Goa come here to buy and sell their wares. The bustling market of Mapusa stocked with almost all types of items is one major attraction of the state.

Margao:

This sleepy town of Goa is a fine combination of culture and commerce. The main population center of South Goa is Margao, the capital of Salcete Province. It is the cultural capital of the state. The town still has reminders of the Portuguese past. The old Margao church is worth a visit and the covered market is the best of its kind in the whole of Goa.

Mormugoa:

This is one of the cities in Goa which is 34 kms from the state capital Panjim. The port city Mormugoa boasts one of India's finest natural harbors.

Old Goa: Old Goa is 9 km from the East of Panjim. This is one of the cities in Goa which is very popular for its churches and cathedrals. Some of the old buildings are converted into museums maintained by Archaeological Survey of India.

Panaji:

Also known as Panjim, it is the capital city of Goa. It is also the most ideal gateway to the others parts of the state. It is popularly known as the seat of the Government. Panaji houses the head offices of most business concerns. It is a perfect amalgam of old and new, the elegant city of Panjim has it own vibrant history. Panaji and is one of the India's smallest and pleasantest state capitals and is located on the south bank of the wide Mandovi River.