Goa has two World Heritage Sites: the Bom Jesus Basilica and a few designated convents. The Basilica holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, regarded by many Catholics as the patron saint of Goa (the patron of the Archdiocese of Goa is actually the Blessed Joseph Vaz
Goa is India's tropical paradise. Around 20% of the land in Goa falls into the beautiful Western Ghats of India, a vast mountain range and a treasure house of biodiversity. The forests here are teeming with exotic wildlife, including Indian giant squirrels, mongoose, Slender Loris, Indian macaques and sloth bears.18 Apr 2023
Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral Church, Aguada Fort, Corjuem Fort, St. Estevam Island, Sinquerim Fort, Tiracol Fort, Mormugao fort, St. Francis of Assisi, Catherine, Reis Magos Fort and many other places.
Chapora Fort. Presiding over the Chapora river, this fort is a crucial historical landmark in Goa. Chapora fort is located in Bardez and offers excellent views of Pernem, Vagator and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the best places to visit in Goa for its historical essence and picturesque views.
Goa is a tiny tourist state located in the western region of India. It it well-known among foreign tourists for its stunning beaches, rich culture and delicious cuisine. From the vibrant beaches of North Goa to the tranquil backwaters of South Goa, the sunny state is a destination that offers something for everyone.16
The 1619 Se Cathedral at Old Goa is an example of Portuguese architecture and is one of the largest churches in Asia. In 1510, the Portuguese defeated the ruling Bijapur sultan Yusuf Adil Shah with the help of a local ally, Thimmayya or Timoji, a privateer. They set up a permanent settlement in Velha Goa (Old Goa).
When the Portuguese captured Salcete in 1543, devotees moved the deity of Mangeshi to a nearby village that took the name of the temple. The temple as you see today was built in 1744 originally, using donations of a local Maratha ruler. Over the years, the temple has seen several renovations and has been rebuilt too.
There is a fascinating legend attached to the name of the Lord Manguesh, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The name Manguesh is not used for Lord Shiva anywhere else in India. The ancient legend states that Lord Shiva once lost everything he had in a game of dice with his wife Parvati.
Betal or Vetal (Konkani: वेताळ), (Marathi: वेताळ) a Bhairava form of Shiva is a popular god in Goa, Sindhudurg district & Kolhapur of Maharashtra and Karwar of Karnataka in India. Betal is also known as Vetoba in the Konkan area of Maharashtra and Goa, and in the Sindhudurg district.