Popularly referred to as "Rome of the East" and "Pearl of the Orient", the small state of Goa nestles on the lush green Konkan coast on the western coast of India. Goa is renowned for its breathtaking scenic beauty and the architectural splendors of Old Portuguese mansions magnificent churches, massive forts, and ornate temples. Commanded by various dynasties, this exotic land is a potpourri of various cultures and traditions.
Known for its palm-fringed beaches, culinary delights, and lively parties, Goa amazes everyone with its vibrant lifestyle and gracious hospitality that have made it the most popular tourist destination with travelers around the world.
Tourism in Goa is a primary industry, as it draws a major amount of foreign exchange to the state. Known as the land of sun, sand and sea, Goa has made a significant place for itself as the most visited tourist destination in the world. Goa Tourism attracts millions of tourists annually, thanks to its amazing natural beauty and colorful festivals that are well-renowned.
In order to promote tourism in Goa, the Goa Tourism Development Corporation organizes well-planned city tours, beach tours, heritage tours, pilgrimage tours, and also conducts cultural programs, and shows for tourists. The economical holiday packages of Goa Tourism cover all major tourist attractions of the state. Goa tourism Guide available at Goa Tourism reception centers provide information about Goa hotels, Goa attractions, Goa transportation, Goa festivals, Goa shopping and other travel details.
Adventure tourism has seen a tremendous increase in the state. The sun kissed beaches of Goa are a perfect site for adventure sports. Adventure lovers can indulge in various exhilarating water sport activities such as water-skiing, diving, snorkeling, parasailing, swimming, scuba diving, angling and windsurfing.
The ideal time to visit Goa is between the months of October to March when the state enjoys a salubrious climate.
Goa is dotted with white sandy beaches, churches, temples, forts and other historical monuments. Some of the major tourist attractions in Goa are Calangute Beach, Agauda Fort, Manguesh temple, Anjuna Beach, Colva beach, Dona Paula, Colva Beach, Benaulim Beach, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Saint Augustine Church, Chapora Fort, Spice Plantation Garden Dudhsagar fall and Mayhem Lake.
By Air : Dabolim Airport of Goa is situated at a distance of 29 Kms from the capital, Panjim on the coast near Vasco da Gama. All major low cost carriers and full service airlines operate regular flights to and from Goa. Chartered private airlines also operate from UK and Germany.
By Rail : Goa's two main stations are at Margao and Vasco da Gama, which are well connected to all-important cities of India by several Mails/ Express trains.
By Road : Panjim, the capital city is linked by road to Mumbai, Bangalore, Belgaum, Gokarn, Hospet , Kolhapur, Pune , Mysore and many other cities of the neighboring states. Goa Tourism runs regular deluxe buses and luxury coaches to all nearby cities of Goa.