Goa, popularly known as ‘the pearl of the east’, is renowned for its churches, ancient ruins, palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, ferry rides, and lively folk music.

With its 131-km-long coastline, Goa is a must-visit destination for every tourist.

Sun, sand, and sea are the major attractions, making Goa a perfect haven for those seeking relaxation. Goa holds a special place in India, blessed with fabulous weather, stunning beaches, hospitable people, delicious food, hill-top forts, charming white-washed churches, towering Portuguese-era cathedrals, and a unique cultural legacy. It’s no wonder that Goa is one of India’s top holiday destinations.

Goa attracts a diverse crowd, including weary urbanites looking to unwind, and sun-seeking Europeans enjoying the glorious weather and cuisine. The beaches in Goa, much like those along the Konkan coast, are long, straight, and lined with palm trees. However, Goa stands out with its impressive infrastructure of hotels, beach resorts, restaurants, and bars catering to all budgets, from luxurious 5-star accommodations to laid-back hippie hangouts.

Goa’s history dates back to the Mauryan Empire in the third century BC. It witnessed the rule of various dynasties, including the Satvahanas of Kolhapur, the Chalukyas of Badami, and the Vijayanagar Empire. The Portuguese conquered Goa in 1510, ruling for nearly four centuries until they were forced to leave in 1961, fourteen years after India’s independence.

Tourism flourished in Goa in the 1960s and 1970s, attracting hippies, explorers, and mass tourists. In 1987, Goa was granted statehood, while Daman and Diu became a separate union territory.