Your stay in Goa allows you to indulge in so much of variety in culture, religion, beaches, wildlife, etc. One of the best things you can and we are sure you will love is go on is a trek to the villages that present a perfect blend of cultures and religions. Goan villages are a world in themselves.
You can also enjoy bird watching at Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary spread of 1.8 Sq. Km in area on the island of Chorao. A bird-watcher's paradise, the sanctuary is always full of a variety of local and migratory birds. Besides, the rich variety of coastal birds, one may spot flying foxes, jackals and crocodiles.
You can't get a complete picture of Goa's rich past unless you have been to Tambdi Surla and Tiracol Fort. While the former is a place of immense religious and cultural significance, the later is an architectural marvel.
Tambdi Surla is the oldest temple in Goa. Around 45 kms from Panaji, Tambdi Surla is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is therefore popularly known as the Mahadeva temple. It belongs to the period of Kadambas, who ruled Goa between 11th to the 13th century AD.
Overlooking the beautiful Keri beach, with a stunning view above the Tiracol estuary, Tiracol Fort is an architectural marvel. Tiracol Fort dates back to the 16th century and stands sentinel at the mouth of the river Tiracol situated in the northern most corner of Goa.
If you want a bit of history and culture then there is no better place to visit than the churches of old Goa. Old Goa is a treasure house of cathedrals, churches and monasteries. Besides the three big churches - the Basilica of Bom Jesu, Se Cathedral and the Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi, there is also the Chapel of St. Catherine (1510) and the ruins of the Palace of the Inquisition.
East of the Viceroy’s Arch is the Church of St. Cajetan and the Gate of the palace of Adil Shah. What was formerly Adil Shah's principal palace was used as the Viceroy's residence from 1554-1695. The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary is one of the earliest churches built.
The Royal Chapel of St. Anthony (1543), the patron saint of Portugal; the Church and Monastery of St. Augustine; the convent of St. Monica and the Church and Convent of St. John of God (1685) are some of the other old churches that are scattered over the hillside.
Goa! You must see it to believe it...
More information is available at; www.goatourism.org
