About

Goa is a state located in the western region of India, in the coastal belt known as Konkan, Goa, a former Portuguese territory, for more than 450 years. goa is also known as "Pearl of the Orient", “Rome of East”, "Tourist Paradise", "Beach Capital of India", "Party Capital of India". Goa is the most happening and fun holiday destination in India. It is known for its pristine beaches, its Portuguese and Indian culture, historic monuments, mouth-watering cuisines, and its friendly locals. Goa is a popular holiday destination not only in India but also internationally. Every year Goa receives thousands of foreign tourists from countries like the United Kingdom, Russia, and Israel. It is the perfect destination for those seeking a way to get close to nature and at the same time also be able to enjoy the best of modern amenities. beeing the Party Capital of India there are a lot of happening and famous beaches in India.  The beaches of Goa are famous for their crowd, music, entertainment, adventure sports and water sports etc. 

Renowned for its rich cultural history and delectable cuisine, its happening nightlife and buzzing flea markets soon caught the attention at the international level. Sun and sand have always ruled & supported the lush green paddy fields and exhilarating adventure activities of Goa. Thousands of local and international tourists every year flood the coastal areas of Goa, to have the best time of their life.  Goa is much more than just beaches and sea. The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendors of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favorite with travelers around the world.  It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer.

Goa Culture

The rich cultural heritage of Goa is a stark contrast to the rest of India. This is one quality that makes the culture of Goa truly unique. Goa is a place where you find people accepting the presence of all major religions without any ego or hesitation. This is the place where people follow tradition as well as remain ahead with time and trends. The Goan culture is very easy going and relaxed. You won't find people fighting or arguing over religious issues or dress codes. Everyone is free to follow the kind of lifestyle they want to, unlike the rest of India where tradition and conservatism is an inseparable part of one's life.

The people of Goa have the essence of music in their culture. In fact, music is quite dominant among people living there. Not just Indian, they take pleasure in Western music and listen to the likes of trance, western classical music, techno, jazz, blues, etc. They have a varied taste and choice when it comes to western music. Most Goans have music in their veins and know how to play a couple of instruments. You can find many Goans breaking into a peppy song on a hot afternoon without any particular reason. Most of the music that they sing has the typical Portugal tune and style. Due to the Portuguese rule in this place, the culture has invariably picked up on the Portugal cultural heritage.

Due to the Portugal rule, many people converted to Christianity at that time. Yet, they did not forget their Indian roots and Goa is one place where you will find people celebrating Diwali and Easter with equal zest and passion. Known as the Golden Goa to the Portuguese, this lovely state is the perfect example of the east meeting the west. Along with Portuguese churches, you find ancient Hindu temples where people of different religions come to pray. At the same time, you will find people enjoying themselves in playful abandon on the gorgeous beaches of Goa. The coexistence of different religious, traditional and cultural sentiments is what makes Goa a heady place to visit.

The place has so much to offer apart from its rich cultural heritage. Large five-star hotels co-exist harmoniously with roadside shacks. Both have their own charm and importance and form a part of the Goan culture. The Portugal elements have very beautifully blended with Indian elements thus giving us a unique kaleidoscope of its amazing culture. You find people wearing western clothes as well as performing Indian rituals and worshipping in the traditional way. There are fewer constraints on women and they can be seen as confident individuals who live life their way. This harmonious blend of Portuguese and Indian cultural elements has made Goa unique in its own way. Visit this lovely place to experience this feeling on your own.

History

Goa – The Name – In the later Vedic period (c.1000-500 BC) when the Hindu epic “Mahabharata” was written, Goa has been referred to with the Sanskrit name “Gomantak”, a word with many meanings, signifying mostly a fertile land; but however, it is the Portuguese who gave Goa its name. Before they arrived on the scene, Goa, or Gove or Gowapura, was the name only of the port town near the mouth of the Mandovi River. This was also the same site on which the Portuguese later built their capital, today’s Old Goa.  

Goa – The Name – In the later Vedic period (c.1000-500 BC) when the Hindu epic “Mahabharata” was written, Goa has been referred to with the Sanskrit name “Gomantak”, a word with many meanings, signifying mostly a fertile land; but however, it is the Portuguese who gave Goa its name. Before they arrived on the scene, Goa, or Gove or Gowapura, was the name only of the port town near the mouth of the Mandovi River. This was also the same site on which the Portuguese later built their capital, today’s Old Goa.  

For some, the origin of Goa lies when Parshurama; the sixth incarnation of Vishnu ordered the sea god Varuna to recede the sea till the point his axe struck after he flung it. Lord Varuna then gave up this piece of land till the banks of River Mandovi and River Zuari to Parshurama and Aryan clan accompanying him. This piece of land came to be known as Konkan of which Goa is a southernmost part of. Another mystical legend is a collection from Krishna’s stories according to which Lord Krishna became fond of the coastal area of Konkan. He then named the area Govapuri (gov: cows) after the cows belonging to the locals. Goa was named as Goparashtra or Govarashtra which means a nation of cowherds.

The Bronze & Iron Age

In 2200 B.C., the first written reference to Goa appears to have been in Cuneiform, in Sumerian times when the King Judea of Lagash called it Gubio. Sumerians had established trade contacts with Goa and many Sumerians settled in Goa and along the Konkan coast. Sumerians are believed to have modified many local customs and introduce their own systems such as their style of temple architecture, the Devadasi system; the Sumerians also influenced the language, caste system, and the kinship practices to some extent. Sumerian influence in Goa can also be seen in the entertainment and games of the region. Even before any king ruled the territory, oligarchic democracy in the form of Gavkari existed in Goa. Gavkari System’s main idea was that village land must belong to the village god or goddess. It consisted of definite boundaries of land from village to village with its topographic detail, its management and social, religious and cultural interaction.

The Great Emperor Ashoka ERA

Goa was a part of the Mauryan empire of Emperor Ashoka. It has been known to other cultures by different names. Two hundred years before Christ, Goa became the southern fringe of the empire of Ashoka. The Aryans had pushed the Dravidian kingdoms to the southern tip of India, such as the Cholas, Pandyas, Tamil Mad, Satyaputras, and Keralaputras. Having an edge over the past helps us understand the history of Goa better.

Consecutive Hindu Dynasties

Goa was ruled by several dynasties of various origins from the 1st century BC to 1500 AD. For 700 years, a lot of Hindu dynasties ruled Goa. History of Goa is a timeline rule by several dynasties from origins with a different traditional and cultural background.

Portuguese ERA

The Portuguese first arrived in Goa in 1498 under the able guidance of explorer Vasco da Gama when he first landed in Calicut on the eastern western shores of India. They were very much happy with the discovery and establishment of Cape of Good Hope which turned out to be a very profitable trading route for them. A permanent trading post became very much necessary but their inability to do along the Malabar Coast pushed their efforts northwards Goa.

Goa finally came under Portuguese rule when Alfonso de Albuquerque attacked it in 1510, which was then under the rule of Adil Shah of Bijapur. His efforts became futile when Adil Shah ousted him from the city with full retaliation. But after the Shah’s death, the Portuguese had no enemy left in any form as Adil Shah’s son was still young and Rasul Khan; General of Adil Shah could not tighten the ropes of control over Goa. On November 25th, 1510, Alfonso de Albuquerque victoriously entered Goa, initiating an uninterrupted and extensive rule for 450 years. Albuquerque massacred all the Muslims in the city as revenge against Adil Shah but left alone the Hindus. In fact, he appointed Timoja as the thanedar of Goa. Albuquerque did not interfere in Hindu rituals or customs but abolished those which were humanly cruel, such as ‘Sati’.

Goa’s Independence

After India achieved independence from the British on 15th August 1947, it suggested to Portugal to give up its holdings in Goa and in other parts in India. By then even the French had given up their territories; namely Pondicherry to India without much resistance. But Portugal refused to do so and instead modify its constitution to accommodate Goa as a Portuguese province. In 1954, Indians tried to revolt by trying to access small land-locked lands in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. But they were attacked by the Portuguese who had lodged a complaint in the International Court of Justice regarding this matter. In 1960, the judgment given announced that the Portuguese had full control over the enclaves but even India had the right to refuse entry to the Portuguese in the Goan enclaves. Several attempts were made by the Satyagrahis to rebel against the Portuguese rule. But each they were compelled to run away with causalities increasing day by day. On December 19, 1961, Indian military crossed Goan borders and attacked the Portuguese under the code name ‘Operation Vijay’. For nearly 36 hours there were continuous air, navy and army strikes which resulted in the complete surrender by the Portuguese. The United Nations, the United States, and the United Kingdom criticized the attack, but Russia was pro for it. Goa was then declared as a federally administered territory as wanted by its citizens. It achieved proper statehood in 1987. Now every year, Goans celebrate December 19 as “Liberation Day” which is a state holiday. Goa has been the 25th state of India in the year 1987, by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. After a few years, Konkani- the local language of Goa was considered as one of the 22 official regional languages of India.

Getting Around

Goa is a wonderful tourist destination in India. So all in all, the best way to travel in Goa is by hiring a bike, which you usually get at a nominal rent of about 250–350Rs per day. In spite of the fact that it could have a fabulous time in the event that you could have leased a bicycle which is effectively accessible at cheap prices, and drive through in Goa. It's a great affair to drive and meander around in roads and beaches of Goa. You can book a taxicab to travel. State transportation is additionally great so it won't be an issue by any stretch of the imagination. There are many options for you to get around in Goa. Public transport largely consists of privately operated buses linking the major towns to rural areas.

Goa is a wonderful tourist destination in India. So all in all, the best way to travel in Goa is by hiring a bike, which you usually get at a nominal rent of about 250–350Rs per day. In spite of the fact that it could have a fabulous time in the event that you could have leased a bicycle which is effectively accessible at cheap prices, and drive through in Goa. It's a great affair to drive and meander around in roads and beaches of Goa. You can book a taxicab to travel. State transportation is additionally great so it won't be an issue by any stretch of the imagination. There are many options for you to get around in Goa. Public transport largely consists of privately operated buses linking the major towns to rural areas.

• By Bus: Travelling around Goa is fairly easy. There is an extensive road network which connects most places in Goa with motorable roads. There are private as well as state transport corporation run bus services which service all the major locations. Despite the overcrowding, noise and off-schedule service, there is a special charm in traveling in the private buses which are brightly painted and filled with colorful local characters. Do not be surprised if you see buses making unscheduled stops, especially in the rural areas, to pick up passengers waiting at all sorts of places besides the regular bus-stand.
• By Car: If you are interested in exploring Goa on your own and at your own pace, then a car is a very good option. A number of companies offer rental cars, both self, and chauffeur-driven. A list of companies offering car rentals is available in the travel services section of this website. Besides rented cars, there are the ubiquitous tourist taxis, which are available near most hotels and resorts and at all the tourist attractions. There are two types of taxis, the white-colored tourist taxis, and the yellow-topped black regular taxis. The private tourist taxis, are completely white in color and are found at the Goa Airport, the railway stations and outside most popular hotels.
• Taxi: Almost all major towns and tourist attractions have a taxi stand, where both types of taxis are available. The taxi hire charges are fixed per kilometer, but with a little bit of bargaining, you can arrive at a rate which is quite reasonable for the trip. The taxis can be hired per trip or for the whole day. Ensure that you fix a price for the entire journey before you sit in, so that you don't get overcharged at the end of the trip. Most hotels also arrange a taxi for you on request. These taxis quite often have an interstate license and can take you to nearby destinations outside Goa.
  
• By Motorcycle: Goa has a unique and very popular mode of transport known as a 'pilot'. This is, in reality, a motorcycle taxi. This is the fastest and most economical way of getting about in Goan towns and sometimes to locations at short distances on the outskirts. The motorcycle taxis are easily recognized by the yellow mudguards and yellow number plates. The driver who is known as the 'pilot' carries only one pillion rider at a time. They even have a special taxi stand of their own. Bargain with the pilot for a good rate for the trip before you set out.
• Autorickshaw: The three-wheeled auto-rickshaw taxi, painted yellow and black, is a common sight in all Goan towns. This taxi is basically the front half of a motor scooter with a couple of seats mounted on the back. They usually take two to three passengers and are quite speedy on the crowded roads of Goan towns. Above all, they are very cheap as compared to taxis for traveling around the town. The rickshaws have separate stands in most places. They have a meter system, according to which they are supposed to charge per km. However most don't adhere to this, so in most cases, bargaining is common before you set out on your trip.
• By Ferry: At quite a few places around Goa, especially in the rural hinterland, you will have to cross a small river to get to your destination. Most such rivers now have a bridge across them, which has made the flow of traffic smooth all over Goa. However, where a bridge is yet to come up, you will be able to enjoy another mode of transport unique to Goa. This is the ferry also known as ferryboat by the locals, which carries people and cars from one shore to the other, across the rivers and estuaries all around Goa. In some places, the ferry remains the only mode of transport to get to the mainland. Popular river crossings include Old Goa to Divar Island, Divar to Narve, Querim to Tiracol, and Cavelossim to Assolna. There is a ferry from the capital city of Panaji across the Mandovi river to Betim, despite the presence of two excellent bridges across the Mandovi river.

Rentals

Bike rentals: Hired motorbikes, moped, scooters, and bicycles are also a very economical mode of transport to travel around Goa, especially in the interiors. These are available in the cities as well as near most beach areas. The cost of hiring a bike for a day ranges anywhere from Rs 200 to Rs 400. Usually, down payment as security or deposit of your passport is required at most such places which rent out motorbikes.

Bike rentals: Hired motorbikes, moped, scooters, and bicycles are also a very economical mode of transport to travel around Goa, especially in the interiors. These are available in the cities as well as near most beach areas. The cost of hiring a bike for a day ranges anywhere from Rs 200 to Rs 400. Usually, down payment as security or deposit of your passport is required at most such places which rent out motorbikes.

Car rentals: If you are Goan Lover or a traveler who would love to drive in Goa with a Self Driven Car Rental in Goa, you can hire self-driven cars. In Goa, Car Rental Rates go up and down depending on the day, the condition of the car, tourist crowd, season, offseason, weekend, holidays etc. South Goa rental tariff is different compared to North Goa. In the North, you pay for 9 am to next 9 am (24 Hours). In the South, you pay for 9 am to 6 pm (9 Hours).

Things to Pack/Carry

Goa is a beautiful destination, Goa is known widely for its beaches, carnivals and a happening nightlife. Every year, thousands of tourists visit this destination to have an amazing time with their friends and family. However, the climate of this city is not always skin friendly and that’s why there are a few things that you must carry while packing. Below are some of the things to pack for your Goa trip.

Goa is a beautiful destination, Goa is known widely for its beaches, carnivals and a happening nightlife. Every year, thousands of tourists visit this destination to have an amazing time with their friends and family. However, the climate of this city is not always skin friendly and that’s why there are a few things that you must carry while packing. Below are some of the things to pack for your Goa trip.

•  Sunscreen: When talking about Goa, sunscreen is among the very basic essentials of the things that need to be carried while traveling. Sunscreen is the first and topmost thing you should pack.
• Beachwear: Goa is all about beaches and the laid-back lifestyle. This is a place to swim, sunbath, sip beer and again to swimming. Depending on how many days you are going for, the number of Beachwear you carry can vary. If you're only going for 2-3 days, 1 Beachwear will suffice. If you plan to take a long vacation, carry multiple pieces so you can experiment with different colors and different styles.
• Flip Flops: Pack up your flip flops as they would be your best friends throughout the trip.  Strictly no shoes.
  
• TRAINERS: You're going to be walking around a city A LOT. Trainers will be your savior. Make sure that you break them in first if you buy a new pair of trainers for your trip. There's nothing worse than a blister when walking around a city.
  
• Shorts and Cottonwear: To beat the heat in Goa, it’s suggested to wear cotton clothes. Therefore, while packing, it’s important to ensure that you’re carrying enough pieces of clothing to stay comfortable throughout the vacation. 
• Hat and sunglasses: carry a good quality pair that’ll give your eyes protection from UV rays. These accessories will not only make you look good but also protect your skin.
• Moisturizer and hair oil: when the beach water will make your skin and hair dry and rough and these will come handy carry the travel size of these.
• Insect repellent cream: Do not forget to carry an insect repellent cream. because you are going to be mostly outdoors after sunset. It is highly recommended to pack insect repellent for your Goa holiday.
• Camera and Camera accessories: To capture all special moments you need this bad boy and you'll regret it forever. Goa is a photography paradise don forget to catch the sunrise, the water is clearer in the mornings as well. If u don't have a camera can pack Mobile with selfie stick.
•  Adapters: Don’t forget the adapters If you do need them, save on the crazy airport prices by buying them ahead of your trip
  
• UNDERWATER CAMERA: Better yet, buy an underwater camera so you can take photos in the deep blue.
  
• First Aid: In case of any emergencies, you should always carry a first aid box. From hangover pills to headache medicines, it’s safe to carry medical aid when you’re traveling.
• MEDICINES: Any medication that you'll need during your travels is perhaps the most important item to pack here. For any prescribed medicines or a tablet, you take daily, set an alarm on your phone so that you remember to take it. It's so easy to forget when you're backpacking.
  
• Google map: All right you might say its there in your smartphone, but wait a minute. We recommend you to download the Map of the city where you are going, it will work even in offline mode. It's very handy when there are no signals. - Trust us its a life saver.
• Copies of your Documents: Make copies of your passport, visas, and tickets before departing, make an electronic copy and a physical one. Provide an extra copy to your family member.
  
• BODY WASH, TOOTHBRUSH, TOOTHPASTE, Shampoo, and conditioner: Small, portable bottles are better for traveling and a lot lighter than the big plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles. It would be useful to fill up smaller sized bottles with your hair products if you find you're running out of space in your backpack.
• LIP BALM: SPF lip balm is also really important - your lips can be damaged by the sun just as your skin can. Keep them moisturized with a sun protection lip balm which you can buy from most pharmacies or cosmetics shops.
• HAIRBRUSH, COMB, HAIR GEL, SPRAY, DEODORANT: The essential hair products that will come in handy when getting ready for the hostel bar crawl.
  
• PHONE CHARGER/PORTABLE PHONE CHARGER: We all know the feeling when our phone runs out of battery on the road. So bring a portable phone charger.
• Don’t predict the weather: weather forecasts are either your holiday’s best friend or biggest foe. Come rain or shine, meteorologists will always give you the best idea of what weather to expect on your holiday. Check the day before you fly and pack accordingly, and save room for that trusty umbrella you hope you’ll never have to use.
• Towels: Towels! Yet another pesky space-filler you need to think long and hard about whether you actually need. Check ahead of time to see if your holiday accommodation will be providing them (they probably will) and pack accordingly.
• Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer: Not just in Goa, you need these hygienic products every time you’re packing for traveling somewhere. Apart from keeping you fresh, the wipes and sanitizer will keep you miles away from germs.
• Powerbank: Your checklist for Goa is incomplete without a power bank. Vacations become all the more exciting when you’re able to upload pictures to your social media channels. Therefore, don’t let the battery drain out and keep a power bank with you at all times.
• Backpack: Talking of the bags that you need to carry to a place like Goa, the large comfy totes or backpacks are the best bet. These bags can be of canvas or of any other light material which can be easily carried for the day out at the beach.
  
• Emergency contacts and important addresses

Weather

Goa is in the west coast of India with the Arabian Sea on one side and Western Ghat hills and forests on the other. The weather in Goa is never too hot, even in the summer, when most parts of the country see very hot days. The winter is also mild. The chilly wind of the winter, which freezes much of North and Central India, does not affect Goa, thanks to the warm breeze coming in from the Arabian Sea. Similarly, the summer winds from the deserts of Rajasthan also do not reach the state. Best things to do in the summer – Water sports, swimming, relaxing in a beach shack, sightseeing, scuba diving, snorkeling, festivals.

Goa is in the west coast of India with the Arabian Sea on one side and Western Ghat hills and forests on the other. The weather in Goa is never too hot, even in the summer, when most parts of the country see very hot days. The winter is also mild. The chilly wind of the winter, which freezes much of North and Central India, does not affect Goa, thanks to the warm breeze coming in from the Arabian Sea. Similarly, the summer winds from the deserts of Rajasthan also do not reach the state. Best things to do in the summer – Water sports, swimming, relaxing in a beach shack, sightseeing, scuba diving, snorkeling, festivals.

• GOA WEATHER IN THE SUMMER: Summers in Goa are extremely hot with temperatures touching 40 Degrees C (104 Degrees F). Being a coastal state, the humidity levels remain sky high. This may be uncomfortable and take some time to adjust to for tourists from colder countries. The sea remains nice and tepid, and the beaches always have a nice balmy breeze flowing through them. Mornings and evenings are pleasant, but noon to evening can get pretty unbearable, and it's best to remain indoors to avoid the risk of sunburn and heat stroke. Goa is not as crowded during summers and prices tend to be relatively low. If you don't mind the heat, this may be the best time to visit Goa as you can explore this sunny state on a rather economical budget during summer. Best things to do in the summer – Water sports, swimming, relaxing in a beach shack, sightseeing, scuba diving, snorkeling, festivals.
• GOA WEATHER IN THE MONSOON: The monsoons in Goa typically last from June to September. This is the season during which people avoid Goa, simply because people associate Goa with beaches, sun, and sand, and therefore, a rainy day is a huge letdown for beach bums. Unfortunately for them, they don't know what they're missing out on, for Goa is beautiful during the rains! The rainy season in Goa is a magical experience. After the harsh heat of May, the smell of wet earth is incomparable. Paddy fields are at their peak as the scorched, dry land gets infused with a new breath of life. If you're interested in a beautiful and relaxed holiday, with no noise, no crowds and lots of souls searching time, choose Goa in the rains. The entire state is sparkling clean, emerald green, and above all, devoid of hordes of tourists! During the monsoons, Goa receives an average of three to five hours of sunshine during the day. We advise against venturing out into the sea at this time. Not only is the water freezing cold, but it is also extremely dangerous during the rains. Explore the many spice plantations, Mollem National Park and Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary to make most of the magic of the monsoons. Best things to do in the MONSOON– Dudhsagar waterfalls, spice plantations, and white water rafting.
• GOA WEATHER IN THE WINTER: Winter in Goa is a time of great celebration and by far the best time to visit Goa! When the monsoons end, Goa looks like it's just back from the laundry - every tree and building looks spanking clean. The Goa weather at this time is just perfect and the streets begin to fill up with thousands of holidaymakers, out for their fix of fun, sun, and sand. People can pick from a host of watersports as the water is just right at this time of the year. Winter in Goa is a fun season with fairs, parades, festivals, and parties that wind up late in the night on the beaches. It is a festive couple of months and all hotels, restaurants, and shops are decorated with lights, stars, tinsel and Christmas trees. Also, this is the period when maximum weddings and engagements are held in Goa. Hotels are packed to capacity so be sure to book in advance. January is a bit chilly but it is never too cold here. It's good to have a sweater with you if you plan to bike around at night or early in the morning. Don't forget to watch out for the beautiful mists that swirl around the paddy fields and all surrounding streets in the mornings and at night... it's gorgeous! Best things to do in the winter – Water sports, swimming, beach hopping, cruising, partying, festivals.

Cuisine

Since Goa has a heritage of Portuguese legacy, the food culture is heavily mixed and renders a distinctive identity. Since Goa has a heritage of Portuguese legacy, the food culture is heavily mixed and renders a distinctive identity. There are tons of famous delicious dishes around Goa Some of such dishes are:-

Since Goa has a heritage of Portuguese legacy, the food culture is heavily mixed and renders a distinctive identity. Since Goa has a heritage of Portuguese legacy, the food culture is heavily mixed and renders a distinctive identity. There are tons of famous delicious dishes around Goa Some of such dishes are:-

• Kulkul: A sweet Goan recipe made from plain flour and coconut cream is made predominantly during Christmas is as looks as cute as it sounds and is as tasty as it looks.
• Ros Omelette: This simple Goan snack recipe of Omelette drizzled with chicken or mutton gravy is just heaven for nonveg lovers.
• Mussel Rawa Fry: Mussels deep fried in rawa batter, this recipe could be the crunchy appetizer or the perfect chakhna you could want.
• Shark Ambot Tik: Just because it says shark doesn’t mean it’s scary. It is a sour (ambot) and spicy (tik) curry that is common in every Goan house.
  
• Chicken Xacuti: Chicken Xacuti (shakuti) is made with a medley of spices and is one of the most famous chicken recipes of Goan food.
• Fonna Kadi: This kadhi has coconut milk and kokum fruit as the main ingredients that make it a variant of the famous Kadhi.
  
• Chicken Cafreal: This chicken recipe is a mix of Portuguese and Goan cuisine.
• Caldeirada: Originally taken from the Portuguese cuisine, Caldeirada is a fish stew that has many varieties of fish in it. It is heaven for sea food lovers .
  
• Feijoada: Feijoada is a basically a beef and bean stew of Portuguese origin that is served with rice and orange slices.
  
• Assado de Leitoa: Although this recipe of roasted piglet is Portuguese-inspired, it has been completely owned by the Goans and made amazing.
• Pork Bafat: This pork recipe is definitely not for the faint-hearted. The spicy Bafat masala is wonderfully spicy and tasty at the same time.
• Bebinca: Bebinca, also known as Bebik is a traditional Goan 16 layered cake made from plain flour and is absolutely mouthwatering.
  
• Perad: This recipe of Guava Jam or Guava paste is known as Perad and in a recipe that every house in Goa prepares.
• Bolinha: These butter-coconut cookies are traditional Goan cookies that are made mostly during Christmas.
  
• Pork Vindaloo: This traditional Goan pork dish flavored with chillies, garlic and vinegar is spicy and tangy all at the same time.
  
• Sannas: The substitute of bread in Goa, this recipe made from rice flour is served with every Goan curry.
  
• Chana Doce: This sweet made from chickpeas (chole) is a favourite among the Goans, and is made for all occasions.

Best time to Visit

Goa is a tropical beauty that enchants every traveler with beaches so spectacular that they take your breath away and nightlife so dynamic that it leaves you gasping for breath. The months of November to March attracts the largest number of tourists due to its New years and Christmas celebrations. However, the off seasons are not too vacant here as many tourists keep coming here during the months of summer for getting the advantage of cheaper expenditure on the vacation.

Goa is a tropical beauty that enchants every traveler with beaches so spectacular that they take your breath away and nightlife so dynamic that it leaves you gasping for breath. The months of November to March attracts the largest number of tourists due to its New years and Christmas celebrations. However, the off seasons are not too vacant here as many tourists keep coming here during the months of summer for getting the advantage of cheaper expenditure on the vacation.

Mid-November to Mid-February are the best months to visit the party capital since the weather is pleasantly cool and comfortable. It’s the perfect time to relax on the beaches amidst other tourists who make the most of these three months in Goa. December is the time when Goa witnesses one of its most popular festivals, Sunburn, besides extensive Christmas and New Year celebrations and is home to lakhs of visitors from across the world. You might want to book your hotels in advance since this is the peak season and prices of accommodation go way higher than you would imagine.

Mid-June to October is the time when the rains hit the beautiful Goa. There are parties across the length and breadth of Goa to welcome the rains. If you love the monsoon and the lush green countryside that the rain Gods turn Goa into, July to September is a great time to visit. One of the reasons to visit Goa during monsoons is also due to the festival of Sao-Joao (the fertility feast of Saint John the Baptist) that is held during late June. It’s an interesting event where men jump into wells that are overflowing to fetch bottles of the local alcohol called feni. You might get a good bargain at the hotels during this season.

Tips

Goa is a land of amazing contrasts. Of tangible and intangible heritage; of human endeavor and natural wonders; of music and stillness. No other place in the world lets you discover so many worlds in the space of a few hours: outside you and inside you!  there are a few tips that you must aware while visiting Goa. Below are some of the tips that can help you plan better Goa trip.

Goa is a land of amazing contrasts. Of tangible and intangible heritage; of human endeavor and natural wonders; of music and stillness. No other place in the world lets you discover so many worlds in the space of a few hours: outside you and inside you!  there are a few tips that you must aware while visiting Goa. Below are some of the tips that can help you plan better Goa trip.

• Pack up your cotton tees and shorts as they would be comfortable due to the climatic conditions of Goa. Also, sunglasses and a hat or a scarf is a must. Pack up your flip flops as they would be your best friends throughout the trip. Don't forget to pack Swimwear/ beachwear as per your requirement.
• A bottle of sunscreen and mosquito repellent are quite essential.
• Its an amazing place for clicking pictures so keep your cameras ready.
• Try to avoid going to Goa during long weekends or special holidays. Everything will be expensive. 
• Keep yourself hydrated with water, nimbu paani and other juices. Even if you are in a coastal town or village, the heat can sap your energy. 
• Always listen to the lifeguard. The calm waves might look inviting, but they could hide a current or a sudden depression. 
  
• There are many places such as museums where photography may be restricted so before flashing your camera just look out for signs saying “No pictures” or “Photography Restricted”.
  
• While visiting the places of worship due to respect and proper decorum should be maintained. Always remove your slippers/ shoes before entering any place of worship. 
• Ola, Uber or any other such popular cab services are actually banned in Goa. Not to panic, Govt. of Goa has launched an app for cab booking called GoaMiles available on both IOS and Play Store or you can take a Govt bus from the airport too. The cost will be not only economical but lesser as compared to other local taxis there. 
  
• The cheapest way to travel and explore Goa is to rent bikes – taxis are exorbitantly priced about INR 25/km and bus network is almost non-existent. Bikes will cost you anywhere from 350-600 per day depending on the bike that you want For eg: 350 for the Activa, 500 for Pulsar, 600 for Avenger etc. Fuel cost is over and above that.
• Don't Forget to Collect some of the precious stones and seashells on the shore. 
• When visiting churches, temples and museums kindly switch off your cell phones or you may turn them on silent mode.
• Traveling with important documents such as Passport, driving license, visa, etc. ensure that they are kept safe in your hotel room lockers. You should instead carry attested copies of your passport, driving license, visa while traveling.
• Do not flash large sums of money or jewelry. Refrain from carrying large sums of cash, instead carry plastic money as they are more convenient and safe. 
• If you are a foreign national, don’t exchange money in the black market. Always get a receipt when changing money at authorized money exchanging center.
• Goa is a well-known destination for all shopping lovers. Every year tourists visiting the country buy various items like handicrafts, jewelry, cashews, spices, alcohol, wooden artifacts, etc. Barter to strike the most perfect deal on products. Goa is the perfect place to test your bargaining skills.
  
• The cuisine in Goa is not just limited to the Goa variety. In many places, you may find International cuisine such as Continental, Chinese, Thai, Mexican, Tibetan and even Portuguese dishes on the menu.
• Being a conservative nation, nudity in any form is not acceptable in India. Nudity on the beaches and public places is forbidden and punishable under law. Also, public display of affection in public places should be avoided.
• Carry your Original driving license (in many cased photocopies will not be accepted) along in case you are planning to hire a rental car or a motorcycle to drive. While driving, do not break any traffic rules or disrespect the Goa traffic. If you are a foreign national, International Driving License would be required to drive.
• Goa is famous for its nightlife. But, while you are partying and enjoying yourself, you should be extra vigilant. Do not accept any drinks from strangers. Try to go in a group or with partners. The entry fees for many pubs will be cheaper or even free