Located on the Western Ghats, home to the natural sceneries, pristine beaches, worship places, and abundant lush green beauty, Goa is a place that is unique in itself. It attracts tourists from across the globe all year round. Because of its tropical and warm climate, it is a go-to place for tourists every season. Not only as a tourist attraction, but it has also become a state of secularism. People from different faiths reside there harmoniously and peacefully. But that is not all; it has many interesting and unknown facts lying under its scenic beauty.
Quick facts about Goa
Most of it is covered by forests – it falls under the Western Ghats region. It is home to huge biodiversity – both flora and fauna. About 20 percent of the total land is covered by green forests.
Highest per capita income – Being a booming tourist attraction, it is regarded as one of India’s wealthiest states.
The Portuguese ruled this state for 450 years – It gained its independence in 1961. But before that, the Portuguese ruled the state for almost 450 years.
Beach capital of the country – it is located on the west coast, and it has numerous beaches along its coastal side.
Basilica of the Bom Jesus – This globally popular monument portrays Christianity’s history in India. It is a Baroque architectural marvel. Tourists across the globe come to watch it during its display.
Asia’s only naval museum – It is located in Bogmalo and comprises thirteen aircraft. All of those aircraft have been decommissioned.
Asia’s largest floating casino – The Big Daddy casino has 100 tables spanning over 50000 square feet. The dimensions of the casino are 72 m x 24 m.
Traditional kinds of seafood – Natives cook in a clay pot over a wooden fire. They grind spices using a hand mill. The seafood specialities include prawn Balchao, pomfret, Caldeirada fish and Calderon.
Celebrating two independence days – it celebrates its independence from the Portuguese reign along with the country’s independence as well.
Home to one of the largest waterfalls – it is home to one of the highest waterfalls in the country – the Dudhsagar falls, or the sea of milk as people call it.
First to host the international film festival – it was the first to host the prestigious festival in 1952. The purpose was loud and clear – to offer the stage for films and art on a global scale.
Country’s first printing press – the machines and missionaries were all brought into the state by the Portuguese upon their arrival in India.
Country’s first medical school – The school is situated in Panjim, the capital city. It is not only the first medical school in the country but also in Asia.
Gambling is legal – Gambling and casinos attract tourists on a huge scale in the state. According to various surveys, people engage more in gambling than in casinos.
Land of several islands – it has more than 150 islands surrounding it. These islands include Divar island, Butterfly Island, Monkey Island, and Sao Jacinta island, to name a few. It is estimated that the state has a minimum of 40 estuaries, 8 marines, and about 90 river islands.
Popular flea market – Some markets run throughout the year but some run seasonally. They operate during the peak seasons – November to March.
Bars in the state – The state harbours at least 5000-7000 bars making it one of the top places for nightlife. Different kinds of products and liquor are available in those bars.
Olive Ridley turtles in the state – These famous turtles come here to lay their eggs. It is the second largest after Orissa.
Headphone parties – The world-renowned headphone parties can be found in the state. It can be seen on Palolem beach.
Tourist places in Goa
Popular tourist places in Goa include the famous beaches in the state – Palolem, Calangute, Anjuna, Candolim, Colva, butterfly beach, and Utorda beach, to name a few. The state also has an agritourism attraction – Tanshikar’s working spice farm and ecological rest house. There are several Portuguese restaurants for tourists. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, the Church of our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Anjuna market, Dudhsagar falls, Mahadev temple, Mangeshi temple, Braganza house, Fontainhas, Reis Magos fort, Bhagwan Mahavir wildlife sanctuary make it an exceptional tourist attraction place for people all around the globe.
Conclusion
This state has been a tourist attraction for several years—people from across the globe visit here for all the beauty this state holds. People come to experience the serenity this place has to offer. The wildlife sanctuaries, beaches, worship places, popular markets, historical architectures, forts, and museums make it an ideal tourist place. Since the weather of the state is tropical and warm throughout the years, not only tourists but different species of fauna can also be seen in the state. Different breeds of organisms can be found here during their seasons.