One of the best picnic locations for an action-packed trip is Goa. Mostly preferred by the youth, the place does cater to tourists of all age groups with a little in it for everyone. Having said that, Goa is best known for booze and the scenic beaches which obviously appeals mostly to the youth section who throng the place throughout the year. Goa is a state located on the west coast of India. It was formerly a Portuguese colony having a wide history. One of the attractions of Goa is the mix of culture that can be witnessed here. Indian and Portuguese cultures are in sync which can be called as Anglo-Indian culture while the architecture of Goa is another sight to behold.
CULTURE
Unlike the other parts of India, Goa is distinct in its culture due to the Portugese who ruled here for a mammoth period of approximately 451 years! Coming to the survey of Religion, Hindus constitute about 65% of the population while Christians account for 24%. Muslim population is present in minority. However, communal issues are almost negligible in Goa making it one of the most peaceful states in India. The people of Goa are cool and jolly in their lifestyle, dress-code and culture. Goa is a very accessible place due to the constant availability of trains and flights which makes it easier for people of other states to regularly visit the place. The best time to visit Goa is from the middle of November to the month of February. During this phase, the climate of Goa is pleasant and comfortable for tourists.
VILLAGES OF GOA
The heart of Goa lies in its villages. In all the other states, you shall find the cities being the main attractions but not in Goa. Here it is the villages that take centre-stage. There are as many as 350 villages in Goa, each of which are different in their own ways. The architecture of houses, churches and other buildings are exceptional. The environment in Goa is apt for tourists as it has that air of laziness around it. You can take a stroll out in the beaches or go for rides to have a view of the locality. The weather is pleasant too making your stay feel-good.
AREAS
Goa can be mainly divided into two parts or districts – North Goa and South Goa. These two districts have further sub-divisions in the form of 11 talukas. From a tourist’s point of the view, these divisions aren’t of much relevance at all as both North Goa as well as South Goa has its own areas in Coastal regions and Interiors. The coastal areas are those that have a greater influence of Portugese culture considering the fact that they were under the Colonial rule for the maximum period. Christian population is found in abundance here while in the interiors you can see Hindu population.
CITIES
After having had a look at the villages of Goa, let us find out about the cities. The major cities of Goa are:
- Panaji – It is the capital city of Goa and was called as Pangim formerly during the time of Portugese rule.
- Margao
- Vasco Da Gama
- Old Goa – This is a place where you can see the vintage ancient architectures in the form of churches, convents and other monuments.
- Mapusa
Goa does have some other options to for the visitors apart from the ones mentioned above. There are a lot of smaller towns that are situated along the beach belts and in the interiors as well. Some of those are Calangute, Candolim, Chaudi, Bicholim and Pernem Town. So, if you are hoping to beat the heat and have fun, Goa is the place to be!