Travel

GOA

Goa is a state on the southwestern coast of India within the region known as the Konkan, and geographically separated from the Deccan highlands by the Western Ghats.It is surrounded by the Indian states of Maharashtra to the north and Karnataka to the east and south, with the Arabian Sea forming its western coast. 

It is India's smallest state by area and the fourth-smallest by population. Goa has the highest GDP per capita among all Indian states,two and a half times that of the country.It was ranked the best-placed state by the Eleventh Finance Commission for its infrastructure and ranked on top for the best quality of life in India by the National Commission on Population based on the 12 Indicators.

 

History Of GOA

In the 3rd century BC, Goa was part of the 

Maurya Empire, ruled by the Buddhist emperor, Ashoka of Magadha. Buddhist monks laid the foundation of Buddhism in Goa. Between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD, Goa was ruled by the Bhojas of Goa. Chutus of Karwar also ruled some parts as feudatories of the Satavahanas of Kolhapur (2nd century BC to the 2nd century AD), Western Kshatrapas (around 150 AD), the Abhiras of Western Maharashtra, Bhojas of the Yadav clans of Gujarat, and the Konkan Mauryas as feudatories of the Kalachuris.The rule later passed to the Chalukyas of Badami, who controlled it between 578 and 753, and later the Rashtrakutas of Malkhed from 753 to 963. From 765 to 1015, the Southern Silharas of Konkan ruled Goa as the feudatories of the Chalukyas and the Rashtrakutas.Over the next few centuries, Goa was successively ruled by the Kadambas as the feudatories of the Chalukyas of Kalyani. They patronised Jainism in Goa.

In 1510, the Portuguese defeated the ruling Bijapur sultan Yusuf Adil Shah with the help of a local ally, Timayya. They set up a permanent settlement in Velha Goa. This was the beginning of Portuguese colonial rule in Goa that would last for four and a half centuries, until its annexation in 1961. The Goa Inquisition, a formal tribunal, was established in 1560, and was finally abolished in 1812.

In 1843 the Portuguese moved the capital to Panaji from Velha Goa. By the mid-18th century, Portuguese Goa had expanded to most of the present-day state limits. Simultaneously the Portuguese lost other possessions in India until their borders stabilised and formed the Estado da Índia Portuguesa or State of Portuguese India.

  CULTURE

The tableau of Goa showcases religious harmony by focusing on the Deepastambha, the Cross and Ghode Modni followed by a chariot.Western royal attire of kings is as much part of Goa's cultural heritage as are regional dances performed depicting a unique blend of different religions and cultures of this State.Prominentlocalfestivalsare Christmas, Easter, Carnival, Diwali, Shigmo, Chavoth, Samvatsar Padvo, Dasara etc. The Goan Carnival and Christmas-new year celebrations are well known to attract a large number of tourists.

The Gomant Vibhushan Award, the highest civilian honour of the State of Goa, is given annually by Government of Goa since 2010.

 FOOD

• Rice with fish curry is the staple diet in Goa. Goan cuisine is famous for its rich variety of fish dishes cooked with elaborate recipes.

• Goan food may be divided into Goan Catholic and Goan Hindu cuisine with each showing very distinct tastes, characteristics, and cooking styles. 

• There are some places in Goa which are famous for Goa's traditional & special cuisines. Ros omelette is one of the most popular snacks and street foods in Goa, it is traditionally sold on food carts on streets.

• Goan prawn curry
• Pork vindaloo                                     
• Goan samosas
• Traditional Goan fish curry 
• Tandoori lobster with 
• frie Tandoori prawns

 ENTERTAINMENT

1. Liquid Sky

Liquid Sky is an exotic, exclusive and a crazy beach shack to the North of Chapora River near Ashwem Beach, Arambol in Goa. The beach has goth, anime, halloween etc themed DJs and parties which are all nighters. Among the many genres of music played, the common ones are psy-trance, techno, electro etc. It is among the most frequented places in Goa by all party goers alike.

   2.Casino

When one thinks of Goa, inevitably the image of golden sandy beaches, delicious food and drinks and lively casinos. Perhaps one of the most pursued activities in Goa would be a visit to one of the many casinos here, which provide a once in a lifetime chance to try your luck. Being one of the very few states where gambling is legal, Goa is frequently thronged by local and foreign tourists who are anxious to play their cards right and win some fortune!

   3. HillTop

Located in Vagator, right between Vagator and Anjuna Beaches, The HillTop is one of Goa's most iconic and happening trance party destinations. Started by Steve and Starling D'Souza in 1974, it has since retained the 60s Hippie vibe of Goa and has been the haunt of many night club and party enthusiasts. The HillTop, of course, is located on a small hill and presents a wonderful opportunity to just relax and feel the vibe of the place by dancing your heart out along with some yummy food, crazy cocktails and great music. The club comes alive on Sundays but timings are only between 5 PM to 10 PM, so make sure you get here early enough.