Goa is a state in western India with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea. Its long history as a Portuguese colony prior to 1961 is evident in its preserved 17th-century churches and the area’s tropical spice plantations. Goa is also known for its beaches, ranging from popular stretches at Baga and Palolem to those in laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda.
The multi-religious fabric of Goa’s society shines brightly, imbibed with the spirit of “Sarva Dharma, Sama Bhava” or Equal Respect for all Religions. Today, Goa has one of India’s highest per-capita incomes, with farming, fishing, tourism and iron-ore mining forming the basis of its economy.
When you’re in Goa you can’t miss visit the relics of St Francis Xavier housed at the Basilica de Bom Jesus. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, though simple to look at, represents features from five styles of architecture: Roman, Ionic, Doric, Corinthian and Composite.
It was one of the largest churches at its time but now the tower is the only remnant of this once magnificent structure. It was built by the Augustine order and dedicated to Our Lady of Grace. The construction of the began in 1597 and was completed in 1602. Once the Augustinians were expelled in 1835 the church was abandoned and fell to ruin.
This grand structure took almost a century to construct. It’s the most imposing of all the churches in Old Goa with its vaulted interior overwhelming visitors with its sheer grandeur. Se Cathedral is dedicated to St. Catherine. One of the important displays is the side altar dedicated to the cross inside. There are interesting legends connected to this cross.
Standing on the crumbling ramparts of what was once the most formidable and impregnable of the Portuguese forts in India, one looks out at a panoramic ocean vista, witnessing the confluence of the Mandovi River and Arabian Sea, over which the fort has kept watch for more than four hundred years.This is so majestic a sight that it is easy to picture a Portuguese galleon or carrack on the horizon, on the last leg of its arduous voyage from far off Portugal around the Cape of Good Hope, finally able to make safe harbour and replenish its supplies.
Deriving its name from the Hindu Epic the Ramayana, this ancient fort far predates the Portuguese rule in Goa, making it one of the oldest forts in Goa. Though time and the elements have weathered this proud structure, it still stands today, guarding the mouth of the Sal River and commanding panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside.
Goa is a paradise where water is turquoise, the beaches have soft white sands and sky changes colour of different hues. The beaches of Goa are counted among the most beautiful in the world.
The state is divided into two districts- North Goa and South Goa. North Goa is popular for the lively and touristy beaches such as Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Candolim and Vagator among others. While South Goa houses some of the most secluded and cleanest beaches of Goa such as Palolem, Betalbatim and Betul Beach among others.
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. Coconut and coconut oil are widely used in Goan cooking along with chili peppers, spices, and vinegar, used in the Catholic cuisine, giving the food a unique flavor. Goan cuisine is heavily influenced by Portuguese cuisine
For other popular food items of Goa: https://goa-tourism.com/food/
How’s weather like in Goa in November?
Days are usually hot with balmy evenings, so visitors should pack light and cool clothing. The average daily maximum is 33° C and the average daily minimum is 23° C.
The weather is hot and dry with an average of nine hours of sunshine a day. And with an average sea temperature of a balmy 29°C, it's the ideal conditions for a beach holiday.
For more details about Goa: visit https://goa-tourism.com/
