Goa's Unforgettable Sights, Sounds, & Experiences

[Alina Jack]

When you think Goa, midway along India's west coast, a land of wild waves, music, and church bells might come your mind. Yes, the country's smallest state is no doubt the fun capital of Incredible India. 

 

Colonial Churches

You can feel the Portuguese air in Goa, especially at the old churches. These century old churches of the state remind you of the glorious past of the place; both gorgeous and rich, treasuring the oldest bibles and rare Christian scripts, these churches are believed to be abode of solace for stressed hearts. Bom Jesus Basilica and the churches of Old Goa are considered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

 

Hindu Shrines

Unlike elsewhere in India, the Hindu temples of Goa are mostly made in the Indo-Portuguese architectural style; the most popular are the Shanta Durga, Mangueshi and the Mahalasa temples. It is a unique cultural music as you woke up to the sound of bells from the church and aroma of incense sticks from the temples.

 

Compelling Museums

Goa is a treasure island of interesting facts and features; visit the Goa state museum in capital Panjim to get a glimpse of the same. The museum consists of stone sculptures, intricate carvings, old manuscripts, coins and anthropological items. Jainism also had its influence on Goa and the same can be seen at the relics present at the museum. The Naval Aviation Museum is another famous site of the place where you can get a vivid picture of the aircraft and armaments of Indian defense.

 

Entrancing Music

When in Goa, no one forgets spending time beside the bonfire, on the sea beach listening to mesmerizing, melodious trance music. It is one of the most immemorial experiences of anyone’s life. If you want something wild, you may hit the discs or the overnight beach parties of the place; Goa does not sleep at night.

 

Quintessential Cuisine

Any trip is incomplete without tasting its local cuisines and Goa is a paradise for food lovers. Enjoy the unique mix of pepper, spices and vinegar in Goan cuisine. While crispy sea food goes well with high quality wine available at the place, the varied kinds of fishes available here makes your meal interesting every single day.

 

Exotic Beaches

The waters and beaches of Goa serve are a mix of the laid-back and the exciting for the young and young at heart. Enjoy the exciting beach volley or go for paragliding here. If you want to be a bit lazy, just bask in the warmth of the sun, lying on hammocks or rejuvenate yourself at the Ayurveda SPA resorts, dotting the beaches. If you are on your honeymoon, spend some special moments with your loved ones under the cool moonlight on the cruises of River Mandovi.

Shopping Fiesta

Last but not least; make your wardrobe a bit funky with the colorful bead jewelry and unique apparels of Goa. There are various home decor items available at the local stalls made from sea shells and conches. In India, you will get lots of places where you will get antique and unique items to browse.