Goa
Goa is renowned for its beaches, beautiful churches and its colourful festivals. Miramar Beach located at 3 kilometres off Panaji is situated at the estuary of the Mandovi river offers great view of the sea. Vagator is one of the most beautiful white sand beach of Goa. The beach is surrounded by lush green vegetation, dotted with palm trees. On the north-west of the city are the remains of the Chapora fort which is well preserved and offers some great view of Goa. The other beach is Ozran Beach, which is relatively secluded with rows of cafes offering refreshments. Goa is a great place for people with
shoe-string budgets and those who love the sun, sand and sea. Pictured on the left is one of the many beaches of Goa.
Panaji is the capital of Goa, located on the banks of the Mandovi river. Panaji was conquered in 1510 by the Portuguese and the town still retains its colonial atmosphere. The Church of the Immaculate Conception is the most famous cathedral of Panaji. Basilica of Bom Jesus or the church of Bom Jesus (Good or InfantJesus), situated in Goa is known for the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. In 1946, it became the first church of India to become a Minor Basilica. This church is covered with marble with precious stones and paintings about the life of St. Francis Xavier. Ponda is another place in Goa which is an important destination for Hindu pilgrims.