Goa- Best Holidays
Goa, the most famous sea side resorts in India has always been a attraction for the tourists who want to be close to the sea, sand and enjoy sun. The name Goa comes from

the pastoral and cattle herding communities (Go) who migrated to Goa in the prehistoric period. 594 kms. south of Mumbai and in between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea is Goa,stretching 100 kms. in length and 50 kms. in breadth. Although mostly flat, this state rises gradually to the Sahyadri Ranges as one travels inland.

The Sahyadri Range is a source to many rivers running through Goa most important being Zuari and Mandovi. They flow westwards into the Arabian Sea.

Goa has Hindu population in majority but the life style and culture remains that of the Portuguese. And who can forget Feni, the locally brewed liquor which is popular as much among the tourist as it is among the locals.

For water lovers, Goa is the place to be. With 130 km. of coastline, Goa has some of the most exotic locations and best beaches beaches the world over. The clear sands, the pristine waters, lines of palms and relaxing tourists, all call for a vacation. Even though you do not own a cottage in this heaven, never mind. There are a host of resorts, big and small to suit your pocket and your interest. So go ahead and enjoy your vacation. One should take a look at each place in great details for each province holds something to attract the tourists.

Goa enjoys a stable climate without much variation throughout the year. The tourist season continues round the year although the best season to visit is from October and February.

Situated in North Goa is the Bardez province, that has to offer Fort Aguada, Reis Margos Church, Candolim, Saligao, Mapusa, Chapora, and a few beaches to hold your attention.

Next in North is also the Pernem Province that has to its contribution places like Pernem, Shri Bhagawati Temple, Tiracola Fort, Alorna Fort, Arambol, Mandrem and Morgim Beach.

Bicholim Province is another that adds to the North of Goa. It delights travellers with Bicholim, Shri Datta Mandir, Vithal Mandir, Arvalem Caves and Waterfalls, Maem Lake and not to miss the Saptakoteshwar Temple.

The landlocked province of Satari does not have many beaches and historical places to offer to its visitors. It is mostly forested and to get to the main town of Valpoi it is at best to have private transport not to get harassed by too many bus transfers. However, at this juncture, one can see the Brahma Temple built in the 5th century situated in the village of Carambolim 50 kms. from the district of Panjim. One will find very few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma the creator of the Universe.

Following Satari, is the Ponda Province known for the Hindu Temples it houses. It was perhaps the least touched by the Portuguese of all the regions in Goa. One can see temples like Shri Shantadurga, Shri Nagesh, Shri Mahalaxmi, Shri Gopal Ganapati, Shri Mahalsa, Shri Mangesh and the Ganesh Temple. One also comes across the Safa Shahouri Mosque and the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary.

CENTRAL GOA
Central Goa comprises of the Tiswadi Province where one can see Panaji, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception ( Panaji Church), Chapel of St.Sebastian, the Government Secretariat, Miramar Beach, Dona Paula Beach and Old Goa (Velha Goa) and its churches. Coming next is the Marmagoa Province housing Vasco Da Gama, Marmagoa and Bogmalo.

SOUTH GOA
After North and Central Goa is South Goa comprising Sanguem Province that encloses Sanguem, Tambdi Surla Temple, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and the Dudhsagar Falls.

Then comes Salcete Province with Margoa, Rachol Fort and Seminary, Chandor and Beaches like Cansaulim, Majorda, Colva, Benaulin and Mobor. Then you can head towards Quepem Province with the only beach Betul, 20 kms. south from Margoa stretching from the Sal river in the north to the Southernmost province Canacona. The sand is packed harder and the surf is calmer than the Northern beaches. Due to the inconvenience of crossing the Sal river to get to the beach it has remained untouched and is a perfect for those looking at peaceful retreat with simple food and accommodation.

Last but not the least, is the Southernmost province of Canacona that has Cabo De Rama Fort, Agonda, Palolem, Chaudi, Shri Mallikarjun Temple and Catigao Wildlife Sanctuary.