24 monuments found
Constructed out of beautiful white stone and showcasing the Indian Baroque style brilliantly, the Holy Spirit Church is one of the popular tourist attractions in Goa. Built originally in 1564 after the demolition of a Hindu temple by the Portuguese, the church was reconstructed in 1645 after facing destruction at the hand of the Muslim invaders. Dedicated to Immaculate Conception of Mary, St. Peter and St. Michael, the church stands amidst green mango groves that act as perfect backdrop. Gilt crystals, engravings and eye-pleasing huge altars make the church’s interiors extremely exquisite. A striking feature is the huge pipe organ that finds place inside the church. The 17th century gigantic cross is another notable highlight. The Feast Day (late May or early June) is the best occasion to be at the church. One can also explore the grand Portuguese mansions located close to the church.
One of the prime attractions of the Indian State of Goa, Agonda Beach is an excellent spot for sunbathing, surfing, diving and simply relaxing keeping aside the stress of the city life. Sprawling around 3 km. the nearly deserted white sandy Agonda Beach is ideal for swimming due to safe and calm waters. Embellished by palm groves and majestic mountains, Agonda Beach is located approximately 10 km. north of the popular Palolem Beach in the South part of Goa. Agonda Beach is surrounded by a number of resorts, cottages, and beachfront restaurants that offer a convenient stay and gorgeous view of the beach. In the centre of the beach is the Agonda Church. This place is an ideal spot for honeymooners’ seeking tranquillity and privacy, as the beach hawkers are not allowed on the beach. March to May season attracts less crowd as the weather is very hot to enjoy on the beach. You can also visit some of the nearby locations viz. Cabo De Rama Fort, St. Annes Church, Palolem Beach, Marago and Panji. Chill, swim, walk, and eat on the lovely Agonda beach!
Bogmalo Beach is one of the most pristine beaches in Goa and is known for its soft sand and marvellous sunset views. Unlike the other popular Goa beaches, it remains free from crowd and is a wonderful spot for romantic couples, picnickers and adventure tourists. Diving, boating and swimming are the adventure activities possible at the beach, while one can also indulge in sunbathing, dolphin spotting and fishing. The beautiful beach is curvy in shape and is dotted with palm trees. A number of fishing villages and tiny islands make the beach even more mesmerizing. Another famous feature of the beach is the presence of small shacks and restaurants serving delicious seafood and other cuisines. One can also find interesting souvenirs, handicrafts and decors. When at Bogmalo, one can also visit the nearby tourist attractions like Vasco da Gama, Panaji, Doodh Sagar Waterfall and the Indian Naval Aviation Museum. Warnings: Age restrictions must be followed to participate in beach sports. Legal formalities must be completed for adventure sports.
Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary and Mollem National Park is among the popular wildlife reserves of Goa. Located in the Western Ghats, the place is adorned with amazing natural vistas and treasures of biodiversity. Apart from hundreds of flowering and endemic plants, the park is home to mammals like black panther, leopard, Bengal tiger, gaur, spotted deer, flying squirrel and many other wild animals. Birds like emerald dove, Malabar grey hornbill, large green barbet, fairy bluebird, paradise flycatcher and many others attract huge numbers of bird-lovers to the sanctuary which is also home to black cobra and many other reptiles and numerous butterfly species. The sanctuary is also popular for its majestic Dudhsagar Falls known for its milky white waters. Tourists can also explore other places like Tambdi Surla Temple, Tambdi Falls, Sunset Point and Devil’s Canyon.
Established by the Capuchins Monks way back in 1613, Pilar Seminary is among the two surviving seminaries out of the four originally built by the Portuguese. Located on a small hillock, it finds home at the Church of Our Lady of Pilar and was built to impart knowledge about theology among the students. The top highlights of the place are the statue of Our Lady of Pilar (brought form Spain), Tomb of Father Agnelo D’Souza and a small museum which houses Portuguese coins, excavated sculptures, pottery pieces, palm-leaf manuscripts and many other interesting exhibits. Other highlights of the place include the rare-to-find colourful stained-glass windows, an inimitable baroque doorway and some very enchanting frescos. From the top of the chapel’s building, you get to enjoy the spectacular views of Arabian Sea, River Zuari, coconut plantations and rice fields. The seminary attracts devotees in large numbers every Thursday and during the procession of Saints. The cool and peaceful ambience of the place seems to have nothing in its parallel.
Housing an impressive idol of Goddess Durga, Shri Shantadurga Temple is unique in terms of environment, architecture and space. Once a small laterite mud shrine, Shantadurga Temple is now a spacious and grand temple complex attracting hundreds and thousands of devotees every year. The name of the temple comes from a strong religious belief that Shree Durga mediated between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu to stop the violent war between the two. Hence, this avatar of Goddess Durga which emerged to derive peace between Lord Shiva and Vishnu came to be known as Shree Shantadurga Temple. The architecture of the temple is inspired by Indo-Portuguese style. The temple has an eye-catching idol of Goddess Durga in calm and serenemood.Theidol of this beautiful templeholds two serpents, which symbolizes Vishnu and Shiva. Visitors to this temple can also explore nearby attractions like Mahalaxmi Temple, Fountain of Phoenix, St. Sebastian Chapel, Dona Paula Beach, Miramar Beach and many more.
One of the most striking, entertaining and popular beaches of Goa is the Palolem Beach. This beautiful stretch of about 1 km. in the crescent shape has coconut groves and rocky outcrops extending to the Arabian Sea. Everyone from independent travellers to the package tourists and from backpackers to family holidaymakers love to visit the beach which is safe for swimming and well-known for the activities like fishing in a boat, dolphin spotting, kayaking, scuba diving, canoeing and trekking. Among the hotspots at or near the beach, don’t miss visiting the Butterfly Beach, Monkey Island, Honeymoon Beach and Money Stone. Yoga and Ayurvedic massages are worth enjoying at Palolem. The beach continues to be playful at night, with dance and live music venues. Silent noise parties in which the music is played via earphones are the fast-growing trend of the beach. Shacks, beach cottages and a variety of restaurants add to the beach’s liveliness. It is great to be surrounded by tourists from different countries at the beach. A variety of jewellery items, clothes and souvenirs can be purchased at the market behind the beach. Excursions to Cotigao Sanctuary and Dudhsagar Falls can also be planned.
Old Goa is home to many important churches and cathedrals, the St, Cajetan Church being one of them. Formerly known as the Church of Our Lady of Diving Providence, it boasts of breathtaking architecture, mixing the elements of Corinthian and Baroque styles. Made of lime-plastered laterite blocks, the church features turrets which work as belfries or bell towers and the total of 7 baroque style altars. The Church was constructed in 1661 and was inspired by Rome’s Basilica of St. Peter. While the main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Diving Providence, there are three altars on its each side, dedicated to St. Cajetan, St, John, St. Agnes, St. Clare, Our Lady of Piety and the Holy Family. Canvas paintings, wooden pulpit and huge piers add to the fabulous interiors. Internally, the church body takes the form of a Greek cross. Interestingly, there is a well inside the temple which indicates the possible existence of a Hindu temple at the site.
Visible as a trail of milk from a distance, Dudhsagar (ocean of milk) takes the form of a mighty 4-tier cascade when approached. India’s fifth highest fall (about 310 m. in height), it epitomize the exotic beauty of Western Ghats and is located inside Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. Surrounded by opulent green forests and creating the melodious sounds of splashing waters, the waterfall apparently washes off all the pains and sorrows of life. According to a popular myth, the cascade was formed when a local princess poured sweetened milk from her jug down the hill. Swimming is a popular activity, though one must be careful especially during monsoons when the waterfall pod receives voluminous water. One can spot monkeys, colourful butterflies and a variety of birds at Dudhsagar. Trekking from various parts to reach the waterfall is something you will never forget. An added highlight is the presence of rail tunnels that promise to enhance the mystic nature of the place. You must savour the full view of Dudhsagar from what is called the viewpoint, a popular vantage point among photographers. Trekking to the top of the fall is extremely adventurous, but you must be an experienced trekker for pursuing it.
Stunning sunset views, rich live music scene, some old specimen of banyan trees and delicious seafood - Arambol Beach of Goa ranks among the finest beaches on the western coast of India. The ambiance of the beach is perfect to practice yoga and meditation. At the same time, the sea here is perfect to enjoy adventures like kite surfing and paragliding. There is no dearth of beach shacks, seaside restaurants and arrays of shops selling interesting local stuff. A relaxing massage can be enjoyed at a popular healing centre. It is a great experience to listen to the Indian and international music offered as a part of the healing arts. You can plan a visit to the beach during one of the popular dance festivals. Enjoy fishing, dolphin watching, boat rides and natural vistas like rocky cliffs and fresh water lagoons. Hot sulphurous springs with healing qualities can also be explored near the lake. Don’t forget to buy junk jewellery, clothes and handicrafts sold at decent prices.
The most popular church in Goa and one of the oldest in India, Basilica of Bob Jesus is dedicated to infant Jesus. The church holds special religious significance for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Representing baroque architecture at its best, the church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit on a trip to Goa. Marble floor is embedded with precious stones and there are some beautiful paintings depicting St. Francis’ life. The use of black granite and basalt lends unique worth to the outside architecture, while the interiors of the church are simple yet amusing. Decorated altars and the silver casket containing holy relics of the saint’s body are among other prime attractions. Bom Jesus Basilica Art Gallery in the premises is also worth visiting. In the year 2014, the body of St. Francis will be displayed for public viewing (a practice that takes place after every 10 years).
Among the most popular of the Goa beaches is one at Candolim, known for its white sand and picturesque shoreline. Sand dunes covered with scrubs complement the beauty of the sea. There are few water activities and one can also join the trip to watch the dolphins. Aguada Fort and the adjoining lighthouse, church and jail garrison are among the top highlights of the beach. One can also find some inns and restaurants that serve fresh seafood and exotic cocktails. Remember that some of them can be extremely expensive. Small local bars (called tavernas) can be your stopover to enjoy the locally brewed drinks. Tourists get to enjoy seclusion as the beach is not as crowded as the other famous Goa beaches. Shops selling cheap clothes and masseurs offering relaxing massage offers are quite common at the beach. Swimming is strictly prohibited until you have an expert company.
Probably the most happening beach of Goa with international fame, Baga Beach is full of fun and excitement. Sandwiched between high hills and crystal clear waters of Arabian Sea, the beach is famous for plethora of activities like parasailing, water boarding, kite surfing, windsurfing and jet skiing. Dolphin watching is indeed an added bonus for the enthusiastic visitors. The beach is lined up with shacks where delicious seafood can be enjoyed. There is no dearth of beers and cocktails that add to the enjoyment. Equally fascinating are the local shops and night bazaars where one can shop for leather items, clothes, books and a huge variety of interesting souvenirs. Enjoy stupendous sunset views in the evening and wait for the vivid nightlife to begin. With some of the most happening nightclubs and dinning venues to its credit, Baga Beach promises high dose of entertainment.
Also known as Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Samba Kovil (in the local language), the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception is one of the historical structures in the union territory of Pondicherry. Constructed on the orders of Jesuit Fathers, who visited this French colony at the end of the 17th century, the church was razed a number of times due to colonial power struggle among French, Dutch and British. Today, the church boasts of huge altars and statues of St. Joseph, Our Lady of Good Health, St. Theresa, St. Francis and many more, apart from the High Altar. A typical example of robin’s-egg-blue-and-cloud-white edifice, it is the mother church for the region’s Roman Catholic Archdiocese. Visitors to the church can attend the mass services conducted in English as well as in Tamil. Choir Loft and Bell Tower are the added highlights of the church.
Known for its engrossing parties, vivid nightlife and interesting flea markets, Arjuna Beach is a prime attraction for anyone visiting Goa. Some wonderful moments of the trip can be enjoyed at beach shakes, the most popular one being Curlies. Enjoy spectacular sunsets and taste world-class cocktails at this place. Outdoor parties and full moon parties especially during Christmas and New Year are quite happening here. You can also enjoy water sports like windsurfing and paragliding apart from swimming, bathing and sunbathing. Arjuna Beach has some good attractions that include Chapora Fort, Albuquerque Mansion and Mascarenhas Mansion that are worth visiting. Warnings Swim or bath at safe zones marked by red and yellow flags. Sea can be rough post-afternoon. Lifeguard station is located close to the Lilliput Tower.
Affectionately called the ‘Queen of the Beaches’, Calangute Beach is undoubtedly the most visited one in North Goa. The beach came into limelight in the 1960s with the arrival of Hippie culture and today it is thronged by tourists from all over the world. Water sports like banana boat riding, parasailing, jet skiing and swimming are among the top highlights. There are many beach shacks where one can relax, take sun bath and enjoy delicious seafood. Late night beach parties are quite common at Calangute Beach. Open markets near to the beach sell clothes and a variety of trinkets at low prices. You can also hire a scooter to access sister beaches of Calangute, the two popular ones being Arjuna and Baga. There are many popular restaurants and bars along the coastline to enjoy at. Warnings Sea can be rough during monsoons and activities like swimming are prohibited.
The status of South Goa’s most happening beach aptly suits the pristine Colva Beach. The beautiful stretch of about 20 km. boasts of white sand with scattered sea shells and wonderful opportunities of relaxing and swimming. Visit the beach early morning to enjoy seclusion and in the evening to be a part of the lively crowd. Bordered by the rows of palms, the beach is also famous for Our lady of Mercy Church featuring Menino Jesus Statue. Restaurants at the beachfront promise fresh and delicious seafood and there are good nightlife venues in the form of bars and pubs. Fish cooked in rich spices, vinegar and coconut oil is simply irresistible. Crabs, prawns, lobster and fried mussels are among the star highlights of the menus. Cashew feni is the locally brewed beverage that must not be missed in any condition. Budget to luxury accommodations near the beach attract huge numbers of holidaymakers to enjoy a memorable stay here.
A rustic red-laterite construction overlooking the astounding beauty of River Chapora, Chapora Fort is an experience you would cherish for the whole life. Originally built by Sultan Adil Shah, the present day fort was constructed by the Portuguese as a watch post. Later, it fell into the hands of Marathas before conquered by the Portuguese again. Today, the credit for its iconic status among the tourists goes to the fort’s appearance in blockbuster Bollywood movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’. Boasting of steep slopes all sides, Chapora Fort promises commanding views of the splendid Arjuna and Vagator Beaches. Tranquil atmosphere and cool breeze add great value to the mesmerizing ambience of the place. Long winding tunnels and bastions with cylindrical turrets are the characteristic features of the fort. Few signs of St. Anthony Church can be discovered. There are some good cafes and restaurants located close to the fort.
A splendid colonial footprint on the canvas of Goa, Fort Aguada is one of the biggest and well-maintained Portuguese forts of the region. Built in 1613, when Portuguese felt the need to provide defence to their ships against Dutch and local Indian rulers; the fort stands gloriously defeating all signs of aging. An added attraction is the Portuguese lighthouse erected in 1864. It now serves as an exciting vantage point to admire the nearby beaches and Arabian Sea waves. ‘Aguada’ means water and it was chosen as the fort’s name due to its capacity of storing thousands of gallons of freshwater. A natural spring flowing nearby acted as the source of water for the ship crews. The fort, which is now known for its luxurious beach resort, boasts of features like moat, bastions, secret passages and storage chambers. Overlooking River Mandovi, the fort promises its visitors some spectacular views of the setting sun. Prefer to visit early morning or in the evening to avoid scotching sun.
Snow Park in the city of Ahmedabad is a popular amusement spot visited by the locals and tourists in huge numbers every day. The park gets crowded during summers when the visitors seek refuge against the scorching heat outside. Located within the premises of the amusement park called Maniar’s Wonderland, the park is one of the top attractions among visitors of all age groups. The park brings a memorable experience of spending playful moments in the artificial snow settings. Snowfall is indeed the highlight of the place. The freezing temperature of up to -15 °C is created inside to take the fun to a new level altogether. Visitors have fun making snow balls and indulging in snow wars with friends and family members. Apart from the Snow Park, there are other exclusive attractions at the Wonderland Park, including Aqua Ball, Sling Shot, Crazy Car, Zip Line, Joy Boats, Jumping Jack, Joy Train and Desert Bike.
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