The most popular language in Goa. What is Goa and where is the state located
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Goa - main resort the country, as is often the case, is completely unlike the rest of India. The coastline stretches here for 110 km, forming 40 beautiful beaches. The state is divided into North and South parts, the border between which is Fort Aguada.
According to legend, the first European who set foot on the land of Goa - the Portuguese Afonso Albuquerque - wanted to exclaim "Wow!" The colonialists immediately made Old Goa the capital of Portuguese India, recognizing that the buildings they discovered surpass in beauty all the temples of the previously subordinate East. By that time, the history of India was already more than 4 thousand years old. The small Indian state was under the yoke of Europeans for more than 400 years - until the middle of the 20th century, but at the same time it did not lose its identity, and it is difficult to imagine a freer land now.
People go to Goa mainly for beach vacations and Ayurveda - all diseases of the "big city" here are very quickly cured by local masseurs and other healers. The excursion program of Goa is not rich, from local attractions are interesting the Dudhsagar waterfall, the village of Hampi with a bunch of ancient ruins, and water walks and fishing are popular among outdoor activities.
Hotels and guesthouses located in South Goa are considered expensive, and not only by Indian standards. They are popular with wealthy Europeans and wealthy Indians. The exact opposite - North Goa, relatively inexpensive, noisy and democratic - in the 60s. this place was chosen by hippies and so they stayed there. Today in numerous villages North Goa mostly party-goers from America and Europe settle, thanks to which these lands became famous all over the world.
How to get to Goa
Goa became a tourist destination not so long ago, about 50 years ago, when hippies began to arrive on the coast by circular routes - by land and sea. In the mid-1960s. Dabolim Airport, the only air hub in the state, has opened its doors for international travelers. Since then, the Dabolim terminal annually receives about 200 thousand tourists from Europe and Russia. The travel time from Moscow is 7-9 hours, the cost of tickets is from 325 USD round trip.
Find Flights to Goa
By train or bus
Some tourists get to Goa by train. To do this, you need to fly to Mumbai and take a train to Goa there. This option is attractive for its cheapness - tickets to Mumbai are usually significantly cheaper than directly to Dabolim, even taking into account the cost of a train ticket. The train runs 9-13 hours, before buying a ticket, check if there is a stop at the station you need. There are also trains from Delhi to Goa, but the journey will take about 30 hours, and the savings are quite dubious.
South Goa Resorts
- Dona Paula, Bogmalo, Colva, Benaulim, Palolem, Cavelossim, Mobor, Majorda.
What to try
Some tourists are wary of Indian food for fear of the abundance of spices. However, the cuisine of Goa is as Europeanized as possible and the least spicy in comparison with the rest of the country, so you can safely try it. However, while vacationing in Goa, it is really worth taking some precautions: drinking water only from a bottle and not buying food from street vendors.
Seafood is a kind of visiting card of the local cuisine. Crabs, shrimps, lobsters, molluscs, octopuses, sharks, squids, lobsters, etc. Grilled or in the oven, in coconut milk or semolina - the fish menu of even a small restaurant is usually quite varied. But meat, especially beef, they do not like to cook here, and in some places they do not know how, since a cow is a sacred animal for the Hindus.
Pay attention to the Indian version of pilaf - "biriani". The dish is made from rice and meat, chicken or seafood and tastes quite hot due to the abundance of spices. When placing an order, do not forget to emphasize - "spicy note".
Another interesting local dish is sizler: garnish and meat (or fish) are fried on foil or in a frying pan and spread on cabbage leaves. The whole secret of the original taste is in the signature sauce, which is different for each chef.
Tortillas in Goa are prepared so masterly that they are often served as a main course. Paratha flatbread is baked with ghee and sour cream, and then served with spicy vegetables. Garlic or cheese "naan" (other tortillas), in turn, are inimitable with tomato soup.
Many Indians adhere to the laws of Ayurveda - the "science of life", according to which it is enough just to eat right to stay young and healthy for a long time.
Another popular dish among tourists is “paneer tikka” - traditional cheese cubes rolled in spices and fried on a grill. Paneer can be prepared in dozens of other ways and is healthy and very popular in India.
Bean or lentil stew "dal" is also appreciated by tourists for its aroma and unique taste. This vegetarian dish, flavored with herbs and spices, is a daily food for most Indians.
Most Hindus are vegetarians, in some restaurants and cafes (especially for local ones) there are no meat dishes in principle, and local chefs have no equal in the art of cooking vegetables. Try sabji, a vegetable mix flavored with spices.
The local desserts may seem overwhelmingly sweet, but they are definitely worth a visit. Burfi, a milk fudge, which may contain berries, coconut, nuts, saffron, rose water and other ingredients, has a very delicate taste.
Goa cafes and restaurants
Cafes and restaurants in Goa are at every step - they love and know how to cook deliciously here. Sheki is especially popular with tourists - tiny shacks that line the beaches in tourist season... These are local fast food restaurants - there is not much choice of dishes, but everything is cheap and tasty.
Shek food can be ordered directly to the beach lounger, and the prices in such establishments are very affordable - soup costs about INR 120-150, shrimp - from INR 400, a cooked shark will cost INR 700-800. For drinks - juices and smoothies (by the way, very tasty) - pay about 100-120 INR. It may seem that the conditions for cooking in the shek are quite unsanitary, but stomach problems are rarely complained about here. Each outlet owner values his reputation, and rumors of stale shrimp and dirty dishes spread along the coast very quickly.
Restaurants in Goa delight with a variety: literally everything is served here - from Indian curries to schnitzels with blood. However, it is better to give preference local cuisine, local chefs do it best, although there are also quite a few Italians with pizzerias here.
The average bill in an ordinary Goan restaurant is 1200-1600 INR, a dinner with alcohol for two will cost from 2000 INR.
The best photos of Goa
Entertainment and attractions
Old goa
The city of Old Goa, built by the Portuguese colonialists in the early 16th century, is one of the most visited places in the state. First of all, it is famous for its architecture - over the centuries, Europeans built magnificent cathedrals here, which are now included in the List world heritage UNESCO.
Special attention of tourists and pilgrims is attracted by the Cathedral of St. Catherine - the largest catholic church in India and one of the largest in Asia. There is a chapel of the Miraculous "growing" Cross, which was carved by a local shepherd in the 17th century .. According to legend, the Savior appeared on this crucifix to the shepherd, after which the monks decided to erect a chapel around the cross. And it miraculously increased during the construction to the size of the Calvary cross. They say that the relic is growing to this day, heals the sick and grants wishes.
The complex of the Cathedral of St. Catherine includes Archaeological Museum Goa, it is located in the church of St. Francis of Assisi. Each of the museum's galleries is dedicated to a different historical period of the state. The museum displays artifacts from prehistoric times as well as items from the Middle Ages and modern times.
Basilica of Bom Jesus (Bon Jesus) in Old Goa It is also a center of Catholic pilgrimage, because the relics of the Spanish missionary Francis Xavier are kept here. During the three years spent in southern India, the preacher built about 40 temples, and after his death he was canonized and received the status of the patron saint of Goa.
One of the most beautiful and memorable temples in Old Goa is considered to be the functioning church of St. Cayetan. The building has been restored, therefore appearance the temple is really impressive. In it, you will see a wooden platform covering the old well. According to some historians, this well is the only thing that has survived from an ancient Hindu temple that once existed on this site.
Fortress structures
As you know, Goa was under the influence of European expansion for a long time, Portugal recognized India's sovereignty over the state only at the end of the last century. In an effort to strengthen their positions, the colonialists built many forts in Goa. Today these are dilapidated fortress walls, but the views are exciting for tourists. It is strange to see silent military cities and cannons enveloped in lianas next to serene beaches.
The impregnable fortress of Aguada, located on the outskirts of Candolim Beach, is considered one of the best preserved fortifications in Goa. The fort was built in the early 17th century and served as a bulwark against the Germans and British. The most significant building in the fortress is an impressive lighthouse, which is no longer operational today.
Fort Chapora was erected by the Portuguese in 1612, since the end of the 19th century it has been in ruins. You can climb to the fortress, standing on a hill, from the Vagator beach. In fact, these are just the remains of the walls - sand and stones, but the fortifications offer a stunning view of the ocean. There is a tradition among tourists - to spend here the last evening of their stay in Goa.
Fort Korjum, built by the Portuguese in 1705, is located a few kilometers from the settlement of Aldona. It is in good condition - the loopholes are best preserved, a plaque with the coat of arms is visible above the main entrance, and very close to it there is a Catholic altar, to which flowers and candles are still carried. Guides tell tourists about a girl named Ursula Lancastra, who wanted to serve at the fort so much that she disguised herself as a man. After being exposed, she managed to remain unpunished and even remained in the fortress, marrying the captain.
One of the most beautiful fortresses Yashwantgad (Redi Fort) is located on the border of the states of Goa and Maharashtra, not far from Paradise Beach. The fort resembles an enchanted castle - powerful banyans and fancy flowers stretch from the loopholes, and the fortifications are laced with vines. The pristine beauty of the neighboring beach and absolute silence only enhance the overall impression of an old fairy tale.
Nature reserves
The largest protected area in Goa is Bhagwan Mahavir. The reserve covers an area of 240 km² on the border with the state of Karnataka on the slopes of the Western Ghats. "Bhagwan Mahavir" is inhabited by elephants, tigers, bears, leopards, porcupines, as well as a huge number of birds, reptiles and insects. On its territory are located famous waterfall Dudhsagar and Mahadeva Temple, built in the 13th century. This is the oldest surviving temple in the state, in February-March, Mahashivaratri is celebrated annually on a grand scale - "the great night of Shiva." Those who do not sleep during the holiday are promised material prosperity and a place in paradise in the sacred books.
The small but very popular Bandla Nature Reserve can be reached by taking a bus to Panaji and Margao. Its area is only 8 square meters. km, but there is something to see. During the walk, you will meet elephants, peacocks, wild boars and huge squirrels, but dangerous predators - leopards and panthers - live in fenced areas. To see them, you need to be patient.
There are no dangerous cats in the Kotigao nature reserve, which is 12 km from Palolem, but bright tropical birds and insects live. On the territory of 86 km² there are good trails, there are two observation towers. Due to the proximity of rivers, the vegetation here is so lush that sunlight hardly penetrates through the thickets in which hyenas, porcupines and bears roam.
Not far from the town of Valpoi there is a large nature reserve "Mkhadei Wildlife" - the residence of the Bengal tigers, it is also known as the "tiger corridor". This predator is considered the national animal of India. But it is not so easy to find it in its natural area, more often cameras, and not people, record their appearance in Mkhadeya. From time to time, local authorities question the tigers' permanent residence in the reserve.
In the bird sanctuary "Salima Ali", which is located near Panaji on the island of Chorao, there are about four hundred species of birds. The Kingfisher Kingfisher is often seen here. This little bird is a kind of Goa symbol; it even became the logo of the popular Indian beer. This fact misleads tourists, some are even sure that this bird is called beer, and not vice versa.
Storks, ducks and herons also rest in the swamps of the reserve. Visitors can meet otters, jackals, crocodiles and even flying foxes.
On the Mkhadei River there is one of the most beautiful sights of Goa - the Dudhsagar waterfall, whose waters fall from a height of 310 m.
The most active waterfall is during the rainy season, but getting there during this period is almost impossible.
India remains the world leader in the production of spices. Chili, cardamom, saffron, cinnamon, coriander, caraway seeds, mustard, turmeric, asafoetida, etc. are grown here.On numerous plantations, you can not only see how all these spices grow, but also treat yourself to a well-seasoned lunch, as well as get an individual consultation Ayurvedic doctor about the benefits of specific herbs.
10 things to do in Goa
- Go to an appointment with an Ayurvedic doctor and cure any disease without pills.
- Do yoga on the beach and understand that chakras are not a myth.
- Find Shiva's head on Vagator Beach, take a picture with her and show off to the less fortunate.
- Go to a Vedic astrologer and finally understand your purpose.
- Get a temporary henna tattoo - mehendi just before you leave to surprise your family with a fancy pattern.
- Go to the market in Arpora, learn to bargain and buy a bunch of clothes for three times cheaper.
- Order a grilled shark for dinner at a ridiculous price and then sample all the Goan seafood.
- Attend an elephant show, watch them play football, climb on one of them and let the water doused in their trunk.
- Dance until the morning at a trance party.
- Pet a local cow, if not scary, and thus receive absolution.
Trans parties
Goa is the birthplace of the eponymous trance, the musical direction (it is for the sake of mega-parties that crowds of people flock here from all over the world), and a blessed place where they first frighten with life imprisonment for marijuana, and then shake their finger and let go for ten bucks.
There are official places where you can safely come after midnight and whirl in a wild dance until the morning (for example, Hill Top, where admission is free for "whites"). And there are mysterious semi-legal "parties" about which until the last moment nothing is known: where exactly they will take place and whether they will take place at all. It all depends on whether the organizers will be able to come to an agreement with the local authorities. But literally in a quarter of an hour after receiving permission, any local child will know about the exact place and time of the disco, not to mention taxi drivers and sari sellers.
Popular excursions in Goa
The following excursions are especially popular among tourists: "The Gold of Vasco da Gama", a cruise on a "pirate" schooner "Visiting the Banderlog", an excursion to Mumbai, a two-day excursion in jeeps to the abandoned city of Hampi and "Get to know Goa!" - excursion for respectable white tourists through the crazy night Goa hippies and ravers.
The most famous natural attraction in the state, Dudhsagar Falls, is also in demand, as well as a Spice and Crocodile excursion to the Savoy Spice Garden and a boat trip along the Kumbarhua Canal in search of these cute animals. Extremals will love the Jungle Book 1 (a one-day excursion to the mountain jungle, rafting down the river on bamboo rafts, lunch, elephant trekking), as well as the Jungle Book 2 (a two-day excursion that combines the Jungle Book 1 program with a walk to the waterfall, yoga lessons and accommodation in clay huts).
Goa for kids
Warm sea and sandy beaches make goa great place for families with children, the main thing is to choose a clean area with developed infrastructure. In this regard, resorts south coast can be called more suitable - the northern states are much more populous than the south.
However, the sun, sea and sand are not a guarantee yet. interesting rest... In Goa, there is enough entertainment for children, including very little ones. Toddlers will appreciate a visit to the Butterfly Park in Ponda. A great attraction for older children is a walk to the dolphin habitat. School-age children will also be delighted with local reserves, where rare animals and outlandish birds can be found. A trip to an old dilapidated fortress, such as Fort Aguada, can be a real adventure for any Jack Sparrow.
Many tourists who want to go to this colorful resort are interested in the question: "What is the language in Goa?" This is important, because with a speech barrier it will be difficult to get quality service. But is there this speech barrier?
To travel to Goa you need, and.
Before asking a local resident for a particular service, it is important to understand what language he speaks. Goa is a place where Russian tourists will be perfectly understood. Many local residents speak fluent Russian. But they are found in densely populated areas, so for those tourists who prefer secluded rest, it is worth knowing the basics of the English language.
First of all, a visiting tourist must prepare himself for the fact that the behavior local residents may seem somewhat strange to him. The natives of Goa are very friendly people. They will happily greet foreigners by shouting "Hallo!"
And also many natives ask foreigners to do them a favor and take a photo together. The tourist's reaction should be calm. You need to be friendly with the locals. You should not respond with aggression to a simple request from the Indians. If a person does not want to do it, it is enough just to smile and refer to the lack of understanding.
In Goa, most of the locals speak Russian
Indians are impulsive people, so they can respond in kind to any attacks of aggression against them.
Beautiful Slavic women enjoy special attention in Goa. Beauties from Russia are especially attracted to the local men if they are wearing a minimum of clothes. However, almost none of the Indian men allow themselves to show an incorrect attitude towards Slavic women. Their attention is manifested exclusively in unobtrusive jokes and harmless flirting.
Goa language
What language do the locals speak?
The most popular language in which Aboriginal people communicate with foreigners is English.
Since Goa is a tourist state, English has been studied here since childhood. It is taught in schools and other educational institutions.
children in Goa speak fluently English language from 8 years old
Are children taught a foreign language well? Obviously, yes, because in Goa, children at the age of 8 are already fluent in English. Therefore, a foreign tourist does not have to worry about the fact that the staff of hotels or shops will not understand his request in English. One of the main conditions for recruiting staff in such institutions in Goa is fluency in English. But what about those who do not know or do not own it well?
You should not be upset, because the residents here are familiar with the Russian language. Traders in the markets are especially good at speaking.
A visiting tourist should be prepared to be showered with compliments from every corner of the market in his native language.
Many restaurants, eateries and cafes even have a Russian menu. If such a menu is not served to a Russian tourist, he can ask the waiter about its availability.
If a tourist from Russia decides to go to a massage parlor, he can count on the fact that he will not only be provided with a Russian price list, but will also communicate in Russian.
And also quite often, while walking along the streets of Goa, a Russian traveler can see the inscriptions on the poles about scooter rental and other services in their native language.
This is easily explained by the interest of the local Indians in the absence of a language barrier with visiting tourists.
Goa is the smallest of the 28 Indian states. Its area is 3702 km 2, its length from south to north is slightly more than 100 kilometers, and its width is only 65 kilometers. Goa is located in the center of the west coast of India and is one of the most sparsely populated areas in the country. On north of Goa neighbors with the state of Maharashtra, in the south and east - with Karnataka, the west of the state is a continuous coastline 101 kilometers long, washed by the Arabian Sea Indian Ocean... The eastern border of Goa is at the same time the beginning of a mountain plateau, turning into a chain of mountains called the Western Ghats (Sahyadri). Actually, the state of Goa is a narrow strip of land separating the sea and the mountains, the entire coast of which is as if cut by the mouths of rivers and rivulets that carry their waters into the ocean from the red spurs of the Western Ghats. Most large rivers Goa, the real arteries, are Mandovi, Zuari and Chapora. We bring to your attention a travel guide to Goa.
The few inhabitants of Goa speak the Konkani language, which was recognized as the official language in 1975 and is widespread in western India (in the states of Goa, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Kerala). Konkani has common roots with Gujarati, Marathi and Hindi. However, due to the fact that the protectorate of Portugal was exercised over Goa for several centuries, part of the population today speaks fluently in Portuguese. There is nothing to say about English: hippies who took a fancy to the state in the middle of the last century, besides marijuana and guitars, also brought English with them. The centuries-old power of the Europeans did not pass for free: the population of the state is more educated, has higher incomes and a better standard of living than the inhabitants of other parts of India.
The capital of the state of Goa - the city of Panaji (Panjim), is located 30 kilometers from the Dabolim airport, the largest city in the state is Vasco da Gama.
Thanks to its many kilometers of beaches, Goa has become a worldwide famous resort... In our travel guide to Goa, we'll talk a little about why it got that way.
Geographically, the state is divided into North Goa and South Goa.
The part of the state called North Goa has a higher population density and fewer hotels, mostly 2-3 stars. Since the beaches in these places consist of gray, far from the snow-white shade of sand, and sea water off the coast is opaque, vacation in Goa (as many say) in its northern part is inexpensive, low-income Indians and foreign students come here, as well as supporters of budget vacations and lovers of the so-called trans-party. It is no secret that it was at the resort of North Goa that the world famous today musical style "Goa-trance" originated. So if you are a fan of this style of music, then consider that a "visa to Goa" is provided for you and you will easily merge into the local atmosphere. That's why Northern part Goa is famous for its democratic views, a variety of the resting public and incendiary trans-parties on the beaches. Goa-trance has gained particular popularity among fans of electronic music with discos located in the vicinity of Titos and Mambo, as well as, known for its eponymous "" - a real paradise for lovers of Indian exoticism.
South Goa, where the sand on the beaches takes from golden to snow-white shades, has more expensive hotels and a slightly different philosophy of relaxation. The hotels located in the South Goa resort are quite expensive - 4-5-star hotels, immersed in emerald green gardens. Tropical thickets in the South Goa region begin just beyond the sandy border. The beaches here are often deserted, you will not find a cow - an inviolable Indian animal, standing knee-deep in water among bathing tourists, as in the north of the state. Holidays in South Goa are respectable, relatively expensive, especially by Indian standards. Of the regular guests of local hotels are wealthy Indians and foreign bourgeois, who do not consider prices in this paradise India sky-high.
However, in fairness, it must be said that no matter what area of such a fabulous place as the resort of Goa you would not choose as a place to stay, you are always guaranteed to find yourself a home in accordance with your own requests and the amount of money in your wallet - from a private house for rent for $ 200 a month to a palm leaf hut for 80 rupees a day. And you can choose any travel time - there is no such thing as a tourist season in Goa, high and low seasons are important for spoiled clients of travel agencies who are unlikely to enjoy a vacation in Goa. So whether it is a party-going North Goa, or a measured South Goa, you will get pleasure from the rest and you will surely have a wonderful time in Goa.
Flight time:
(charter flights)
from Moscow - 7 hours 30 minutes.
from St. Petersburg - 7 hours 50 minutes.
from Kazan - 6 hours 10 minutes.
from Yekaterinburg - 6 hours
from Novosibirsk - 5 hours 30 minutes.
Current time in Panaji:
(UTC +5: 30)
Goa is famous not only for its beaches. The nature of the foothills of this amazing place strikes with a variety: lakes, waterfalls, islands, palm groves and mangroves with a huge amount of exotic animals, and, of course, unique spice plantations. All this is not the last reason, according to which vacation in Goa becomes the golden dream of tourists from different countries. And after reading the travel guide to Goa, your vacation in this corner of India will become even more interesting for you. By the way, do not forget to change the clock - the time in Goa differs from many regions of Russia, the state's time zone is +5: 30 to the world time.
How to get there
Flight to Goa
Charters of various airlines fly from cities of Russia in the winter season (the most tourist time for the region). As a rule, these are practically all cities in Russia with a population of one million or more inhabitants. The flight Moscow - Goa is in progress various airlines, as a rule, several carriers fly from the regions. In most cases, a charter flight ticket is sold only together with a travel package (flight, hotel, transfer, insurance). In this case, tour operators in Goa will help you: Biblio Globus, Southern Cross, Megapolus Tours, Pegas Turistik, Russian Express, Sunrise Tour, Southern Cross.
Regarding regular flights, Aeroflot carries out regular flights on the Indian direction only to Delhi and Mumbai, flights to Dabolim airport are seasonal and, as mentioned above, are operated not only by Aeroflot. In any case, independent tourists traveling without the help of tour operators can get with a transfer to large cities Russia (if there is a sale of tickets for charter flights), or through Delhi, as well as through the hubs of the Middle Eastern states - Doha, Dubai and others.
Flight time to Goa
If you are interested in how long to fly from Moscow to Goa, then you can refer to a special material on this topic. If you click on the link lazily, then the average flight time from Moscow to Goa is 7 hours 30 minutes, from St. Petersburg - 7 hours 40 minutes, from Yekaterinburg - 6 hours 30 minutes. Average flight time is indicated for charters, connecting flight regular flights will depend on the city of the docking and its duration. But, using the material on the flight time and knowing the docking time, you can calculate the approximate time of your flight even for the docking option.
Climate and weather in Goa
Goa's climate is divided into three seasons: winter, summer and rainy season. Winter lasts from October to May, the average daytime temperature is about +21 .. + 30 degrees, but the nights can be quite cold.
This dry season is considered the most suitable time to travel to Goa. After Holi, which is celebrated in March, the climate in Goa can be described as summer, the temperature becomes consistently high - 26-35 degrees Celsius.
At the beginning of the season, the weather is very comfortable, closer to May the heat intensifies in anticipation of the rainy season. Tourists from Europe, as a rule, visit Goa from October to March inclusive, Russians and Israelis from September to April.
The rainy season, or monsoon season, in Goa begins in June and lasts until September. At this time, the humidity rises, tropical showers are daily, sometimes the rain does not stop for several days in a row.
Due to heavy summer rains, the period is considered unfavorable, and there is a decline in tourist activity, although the water temperature in Goa resorts is consistently above +27 degrees.
Weather forecast
|
Saturday |
Sunday |
Monday |
Tuesday |
Wednesday |
Thursday |
Goa Monthly Weather
| Temperature day, ° C |
Temperature at night, ° C |
Temperature water, ° C |
Quantity precipitation, mm |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| -3 | -6 | 26 | 0 | |
| -1 | -6 | 26 | 1 | |
| 6 | -2 | 27 | 5.1 | |
| — | — | 28 | 15.2 | |
| — | — | 28 | 73.3 | |
| 26 | 20 | 29 | 1408 | |
| 28 | 21 | 28 | 1492 | |
| 28 | 21 | 27 | 1327 | |
| 22 | 13 | 27 | 151.4 | |
| 14 | 7 | 27 | 148.6 | |
| 1 | -3 | 27 | 29.2 | |
| -2 | -6 | 28 | 0.2 |
Reviews by month
| January 20 February 21 March 10 | April 9 May 2 | August 1 September 2 | October 5 November 34 December 29 |
Photos of Goa
Transport
You can get around Goa in several ways: the first is, of course, a taxi. Goan taxi drivers have no idea about the counter, so it is customary to agree on the price of the trip in advance, having found out the approximate cost of the trip at the hotel. Bargaining is not only appropriate, but also required. The second popular means of transportation is the rickshaw. The rickshaw carriage can be designed in the old fashioned way on the basis of a bicycle or, more modern, on the basis of a scooter or motorcycle. The cycle rickshaw has certain disadvantages: the carriage can hardly climb the mountain, and many tourists consider it an inhumane activity to look at the suffering of a poor driver. Rickshaws have no speed or roller coaster issues, but typically powered by older motorcycle engines, rickshaws spew huge black clouds of exhaust fumes. In any case, going for a ride on rickshaws in Goa is definitely worth it - it will help you feel the special Goan flavor.
Car rental is also quite widespread in Goa. Renting a good economical bike will cost a tourist $ 60-100 per month, which, by our standards, is considered a mere penny. With rent road transport more difficult - in order to rent a car, a tourist needs to pay a fairly large deposit, which, most often, is not suitable for the public vacationing in Goa.
On the contrary, there are no problems with renting boats in Goa. Yachts, boats, jet skis and catamarans will be offered to you for a small amount on any beach of the hundred-kilometer Goan coast.
Goa has international Airport Dabolim, which is served by many of the world's leading airlines. Also Dabolim is associated by air with all the major airports in the country, for example, from Mumbai to Dabolim in just an hour flight.
Culture
The culture that has developed historically in Goa leads many to call it "fake India" and "the island of Goa". The latter concept means, of course, not the geographical, but precisely the cultural peculiarity of this state.
According to Indian legend, Goa was created by the god Parashurama, who was the sixth incarnation of the god Vishnu. Standing on mountain peak, he fired an arrow into the sea from a bow, after which he ordered the depths of the sea to retreat to the point where the arrow landed. This is how the Goan coast was formed, on which Parasurama settled about a hundred Brahmin families.
However, other gods also did not bypass Goa with their attention, as evidenced by the Indian epic. It was here, on the Goan coast, that the god Shiva lost his wife Parvati in the bones, after which he was in exile for some time in Goa, languidly asking forgiveness from his strict wife. And, frankly, one can understand Shiva: who would refuse to be exiled in this heavenly place!
The Portuguese, who took a fancy to the coast of Goa in 1510, have their own version of the origin of its name: portuguese sailor Alfonso de Albuquerque, seeing golden beaches from the deck of his ship, exclaimed: "Wow!" However, from an excess of emotions, the gallant commander choked on port, and everyone heard: "Goa!" Since then, this area has been given such a name.
However, the first European to set foot on the coast of Goa was Vasco da Gama in 1498, as evidenced by the name of one of the largest cities in Goa. Since 1510, the then capital of the area, the city of Old Goa becomes cultural center and the main metropolis of the Portuguese colonists. At that time, Portugal ruled over a vast territory from Mombasa in Africa to Macau in China. The heyday of Goa falls precisely on the period of Portuguese colonization. The mixture of customs, bloods and religions later led to the formation of that special flavor that still attracts travelers from all over the world to Goa.
Goa's golden age ended in the seventeenth century, when Portuguese autocracy in the Indian Ocean was shaken by the Dutch and English. The capital of Old Goa fell into decay, the magnificent buildings of the times of the Portuguese colonization turned into ruins. Since the beginning of the nineteenth century, Goa was under the English protectorate, since 1964 it was part of the "union territory" of India, having received the status of an independent Indian state only in 1987.
Thus, the unique legacy of Goa has been shaped by both the indigenous Hindu culture and the external Portuguese culture, often forcibly implanted. However, this interpenetration of the two cultures has benefited today's Goa. On its territory, Hindu temples (Mangesh in Mangeshi, Mahalsa in Mardol, Shanta Durga in Kavlem) and the Catholic churches of the Portuguese missionaries found themselves shelter.
Goan music, song and dance, visual arts and handicrafts all represent the same incendiary mixture of the two cultures. Holidays are an integral part of the Goan lifestyle. It seems that the locals find something to celebrate every day. Hindu Jantra, Diwali, Ganesh-Chaturthi, Shirigao-Jantar, Fatorpa-Jatra, European Christmas, the veneration of St. Francis Xavier, All Saints Day - there are countless holidays in Goa! And all of them are celebrated magnificently, on a grand scale by local residents and guests of the state, regardless of their religious affiliation.
What to see
Excluding South Relax and North Drive, Goa has a lot of places, noteworthy sightseeing lovers. These are monuments of Hindu and Portuguese architecture, temples and churches, natural parks and reserves.
First of all, you need to visit the Portuguese forts of Aguada and Alorna, as well as Christian churches, the oldest of which is the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, and the most famous is the Basilica of Jesus (Basilica of Bom Jesus), where the relics of St. Francis Xavier, the Baptist of Asia, are kept. The Cathedral of St. Catherine, the largest Christian church in Asia, also deserves special attention. Be sure to take an excursion to Kartnataka, where you will definitely be shown Old city Gokarnu and Om Beach are two undoubted gems of the Indian south. With a guide or on your own, visit the old and new capital of Goa - Old Goa and Panaji, walk through the ancient streets, admire the magnificent cathedrals and monasteries created by European architects during the Portuguese colonization. An excursion called "Temples of Ponda" will also seem interesting to tourists. The excursion program includes a visit to Hindu temples, a tropical fruit farm and a plantation of famous Indian spices, an elephant ride.
One fifth of the territory of Goa is occupied by natural parks. There are only six of them in the state, and they are created to protect the amazing natural resources of Goa. For example, one of the pearls of the Goan protected forests is the Dudhsagar waterfall, or the "milk ocean" 603 meters high, so named for the milky white color of the water. It is also worth visiting the mangrove island of Chorao at the mouth of the Mandovi River, famous for its unique bird colony. Reserve Bondla (Bondla) - the smallest of the natural packs of Goa, located 50 kilometers north of Panaji, at the foot of the Western Ghats. On the territory of the reserve there is a beautiful rose garden, a botanical and a zoo with a varied fauna: elephants, buffaloes, leopards, bears, deer, snakes, birds, etc. In the Cotigao reserve you can see many species of monkeys, gauras - Indian buffaloes, panthers and gazelles.
Where to go in Goa
sights
Museums and galleries
Where to eat and drink
Entertainment
Parks and recreation areas
Transport
Shops and Markets
Private guides in Goa
Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with Goa in more detail.
Registered on the project Experts.Tourister.Ru.
Things to do
Such a question simply cannot arise in Goa - there everyone will find something to their liking. Lovers of lounging on the beach - comfortable sun loungers on the beaches of Goa in the shade of palm trees, fans of active sports - an incredible choice of water activities from diving and windsurfing to parasailing and kiting - there are a great many excursions in Goa.
In South Goa, centers of Ayurveda are popular - traditional Indian medicine, the philosophy of which is an integrated approach to the body as a single system. Ayurvedic treatments include oil massages and natural treatments. Having visited such a center, do not refuse to take the Panchakarma course of cleansing the body, known to the masters of Ayurveda for more than two thousand years.
Even if you are not a big fan of Goa-trance music, while in North Goa, be sure to take the time and visit one of the trance parties, where you will be happy to "break away" dancing until dawn in an international company. Weird musicians, hippies of all ages, trancers and freaks from different countries world long ago settled in North Goa. The indisputable capital of this unproclaimed republic of freedom is considered to be Vagator. The villages scattered along the coast of North Goa resemble hobby clubs: hippies live in Arambol, married couples live in calm Siolim; trancers and other characters hanging out in Chepor.
It is also worth looking into one of the iconic cafes located in the northern part of the state: "" in Chepora, cafes "", bars "" and "" in Anjuna, cafe "" in Arambol.
Connection
Safety in Goa
The Russian Information Center in Goa gives the following recommendations regarding safe rest in this state of India:
- Compliance with the visa regime is the responsibility of every tourist. Delaying a visa is a crime punishable by Indian law. Do not fall for provocations of persons, lawyers promising you "to solve the problem of calling" and money. You run the risk of being deceived.
- In the event of a clash with the police of the state of Goa, do not fall for provocations by law enforcement officers.
- The use and distribution of drugs in Goa is punishable by law. Do not succumb to provocations from persons associated with the distribution of drugs. Do not participate in this activity.
- Falling off a scooter or motorcycle does not qualify as an insured event.
- Respect local laws and customs, including dressing. Clothes should not be provocative. Wearing swimsuits, short shorts and skirts (for girls), naked torso (for men) outside the beach in Goa is not welcome.
- The language barrier often causes unpleasant situations. They can be avoided by calling for help from compatriots who speak English, or by calling hotline Russian information center in Goa.
- Observe basic safety rules, be vigilant, especially if you are intoxicated.
- Beware of the services of illegal companies. Companies doing business in Goa illegally do not bear any responsibility either before the law or before you.
- Working and doing business in Goa on a tourist visa is prohibited and punishable by law.
Honorary Consul of Russia in Goa: Victor M. Albuquerque
- Address: Alcon Chambers, 2nd Floor, D.B. Marg, Panaji, Goa - 403 001 (India),
- Phone: +91 832 2223220,
- Fax: +91 832 671556,
- Email: [email protected]
Where to stay in Goa
Booking.com offers more than 5710 Goa hotels for booking. You can select a hotel using a variety of filters: hotel star rating, hotel type (hotel, apartment, villa, hostel, etc.), cost, hotel location, ratings of people who visited the hotel, Wi-Fi availability and much more. ...
India is a country not only rich in culture and traditions, but also in a variety of languages. The official state languages of the country are Hindi and English... In addition to the languages stipulated in the Constitution, more than 30 languages are spoken in the country, as well as more than 1600 dialects. Various states can officially use 22 scheduled languages for their administrative purposes.
In 1965, India wanted to leave Hindi as the only official language, but many states began to protest this decision, so English was retained as a second state language. In the context of industrialization and the growth of international relations and production, such a decision turned out to be very convenient and correct.
Official languages of India according to the Constitution
The most widespread and officially accepted languages of India are those from the Indo-Aryan, Dravidian, Sino-Tibetan and Australo-Asian groups.
Indo-Aryan languages include:
- Hindi and all its dialects (the most spoken language of the country)
- Bengali (West Bengal State)
- Marathi
- Urdu (this language is spoken by more than 28 million people in the states of Jammu and Kashmir)
- Gujarati (in the state of Gujarat, more than 70% of the local population speaks this language)
- Punjabi
- Assamese (in the state of Assam, more than 60% of the population speak this language)
- Maithili
- Kashmiri (over 55% of the local population of Kashmir use this language)
- Nepali
- Sindhi
- Konkani
- Dogry (Jammu State in the north of the country near the Pakistani border)
- Sanskrit
Humayun's Mausoleum, Jama Masjid Mosque and others, the capital of India.
A unique structure in Delhi - Lotus Temple. He, regardless of age, gender and religion.
Dravidian languages include:
- Telugu
- Tamil
- Kannada (Karnataka on the coast Arabian Sea more than 95% of the population use this language)
- Malayalam
Sino-Tibetan languages include:
- Bodo (Assam State)
- Manipuri
The Australo-Asian languages include:
- Santali
Hindi is the most spoken language in India
A distinctive feature of the Hindi language is that it has many borrowed words from Sanskrit. This is due to the fact that Hindi- this is bigger colloquial, a Sanskrit - literary... A similar example is Italian language with borrowed latin words.
Even the smallest knowledge of the language will help in navigating the country, as well as in communicating with the locals, therefore, before traveling to India for any purpose, it is advisable to learn at least the minimum list of words necessary for everyday life, because over 500 million people speak Hindi.
Knowing at least basic words and phrases will make it easier for the townspeople to understand. The local population often has a very specific English accent, so you should not rely only on the knowledge of this language. Be sure to bring a small Hindi phrasebook with you.
Traveling from different countries must be accompanied by knowledge of at least a few words in the local language. A country as diverse and colorful in Asia as India uses 2 state languages(Hindi and English), however the locals speak many dialects. Before you go to India, analyze what languages are spoken in a particular state of the country, and also try to learn a few words. Such knowledge will never be superfluous, but will only help your stay in the country.
Russian-Indian phrasebook
Below are some words from the Russian-Indian dictionary that can be useful to a tourist on a trip.
| Cardinal numbers | Nutrition | ||||
| 0 | siphar | Make it less peppery | Mirch-masala kam, thik he | ||
| 1 | eq | table | Meuse | ||
| 2 | before | spoon | chamcha | ||
| 3 | ting | fork | edging | ||
| 4 | charm | knife | chhuri | ||
| 5 | Punch | Cup | hylas | ||
| 6 | che | food | khana | ||
| 7 | sat | breakfast | nashta | ||
| 8 | atkh | water | lady | ||
| 9 | naw | milk | dudh | ||
| 10 | das | ice | barf | ||
| 11 | jyarah | tea | teas | ||
| 12 | bars | coffee | kafi | ||
| 13 | terah | sugar | fix | ||
| 14 | chodah | salt | namak | ||
| 15 | pandrah | egg | anda | ||
| 16 | solach | bread | dabal roti | ||
| 17 | satrah | butter) | makkhan | ||
| 18 | atharah | meat | by weight | ||
| 19 | unnis | a fish | machkhli | ||
| 20 | bis | the fruit | phal | ||
| 30 | yew | vegetable | sabzi | ||
| 40 | chalice | dessert | mithai | ||
| 50 | pachas | ||||
| 60 | sath | Useful expressions | |||
| 70 | sattar | Yes | khan | ||
| 80 | assi | No | na / nakhin | ||
| 90 | nabbe | Well, OK) | ackha | ||
| 100 | sau | thanks | dhanyavad / shukriya | ||
| 200 | to sau | Many thanks | bakhut shukriya | ||
| 1000 | khazar | Please | kripaya / meharbani karke | ||
| 2000 | before the Khazars | Yes please | ji ha | ||
| No thanks | ji nehin | ||||
| Ordinals | sorry | kshama karen | |||
| first | pehla | Hello / Goodbye | namaste | ||
| second | dusra | See you | Phir milenge | ||
| third | tisra | How are you doing? | Kya hal he? | ||
| fourth | chautha | How are you? (male / female) | Up case / casey he? | ||
| fifth | punchwa | OK, thank you | Thik hum, shukriya | ||
| sixth | chahatha | Glad to meet you | Ap se milkar bari khusi hui | ||
| seventh | satvan | I would like to ... / I need ... | Muje ... chahie | ||
| eighth | atkhwan | You have….? | Apke pass ... heh? | ||
| ninth | nauvan | How much is it? | Is ki kimat kya he? | ||
| tenth | daswan | Cheap | sasta | ||
| Expensive | mahanga | ||||
| Names of months | Where is it? | Ye kahan he? | |||
| chaitra | March, April | How far from here? | Kya yahan se stupid he? | ||
| vaisakh | April May | Could you write this down? | Ise likh de? | ||
| jeshth | May June | Repeat please | Phir kahiye | ||
| ashad | June July | Speak slowly | Dhire dhire bolie | ||
| shravan | July August | I do not say ... (male / female) | Men nahin bolt / bolty | ||
| bhadrpad | Aug. Sept | Speak English? (male / female) | Up angrezi bolt / bolty heh? | ||
| Ashchin | September October | I do not understand | Men nehi samja | ||
| kartik | October November | Let's go / let's go | Chalo, jao | ||
| margashirsh | November December | Come | ao | ||
| pus | December - January | Straight ahead | sidha | ||
| magh | January February | Big small | bar / chhota | ||
| phalgun | February March | This that | ex / vox | ||
| Near / far | pass / fool | ||||
| Days of the week | Road | rasta | |||
| Monday | Somvar | Street | Sarak, Marg | ||
| Tuesday | Mangalvar | Yesterday tomorrow | feces | ||
| Wednesday | Budhwar | Today | aj | ||
| Thursday | Brihaspativar / Guruvar | Here | yahan | ||
| Friday | Shukravar | Few | cam | ||
| Saturday | Shanivar | Many | bahut | ||
| Sunday | Ravivar | Before | pahle | ||
| A little | thora | ||||
| Time | Way down | niche | |||
| How much time? | Kitne badje heh? | Up | upar | ||
| 14:00 | Ding ke do baje | How? | Keyse? | ||
| 17:30 | Sham ke sarhe punch baje | Why? | Kyon? | ||
| 1 minute | Ek minit | When? | Cab? | ||
| 1 hour | Ek ghanta | Where? | Kahan? | ||
| Half an hour | Adha ghanta | What? | Kya? | ||
| Quarter of an hour | Pauna ghanta | Who? | Kaun? | ||
| 1 day | Ek din | What is your name? | Apka us kya he? | ||
| Week 1 | Eck Hafta | How far? | Kitney is stupid heh? | ||
| Morning | Subah | Do not know | Pata nehin | ||
| Noon | Dopakhar | Hurry up | Jaldi Karo | ||
| Evening | Sham | Leave | Hat dzhao / hato | ||
| Night | Rath | I don't want / I don't need | Muje nehin chahiye | ||
| Midnight | Adhi rat | Not now | Abhi nehin | ||
| Cold | thanda | ||||
| Colors | Hot | garam | |||
| black | feces | Good | ackha | ||
| White | safed | Bad | kharab | ||
| blue | nila | Enough | Bass / kafi he | ||
| Red | lal | Closed | bandh | ||
| yellow | saw | Open | khula | ||
| green | hara | Left | accordion | ||
| Brown | bhura | Right | dayan | ||
Goa, whose territory is only 3 702 km², is washed in the west by the warm and transparent waters of the Arabian Sea, which predetermined its development as a resort. Geographically, this is a really small region: the length from north to south is 105 km, from west to east - about 65 km. Its northern neighbor is the state of Maharashtra, and from the south and east, as if hugging its little "brother", the territory of the state of Karnataka adjoins. Coastline paradise resort is cut by the estuaries of rivers, the largest of which are Mandovi, Chapora and Zuari. Most of the waterways originate in the Western Ghats (Sahyadri mountain range).
The climate of the "Indian pearl" and "the island of love and freedom", as Goa is often called, is typically subequatorial, with dry and wet seasons pronounced. From May to October, the region is dominated by hot, humid (73%) weather. May is at the same time the hottest month: the air temperature warms up to its maximum of +33 ° С. In June, the monsoon begins, ending by October. The resort is getting a little cooler, the thermometer shows from 25 to 30 degrees above zero. The same period of the year is characterized by the highest amount of precipitation. In July alone, 1000 mm falls, which is almost one and a half times higher than the annual level in Moscow.
The dry season in "Goa Dorada" ("Golden Goa") - as the local population calls its small homeland - starts in mid-December and lasts through February. average temperature resort "winter" fluctuates between + 10 ... + 15 ° С, but the thermometer often rises to +31 during the day and +20 degrees at night. Precipitation during these months, if it falls, is extremely rare.
Yoga class by the seaGoa history
Fans of the Indian epic "Mahabharata" probably know that one of the sources where Goa is mentioned for the first time is this epoch-making work. True, there he has a different name - Gomantak, which in translation from Sanskrit means "fertile land". But in the Sumerian chronicles dating back to about 2200 BC, the future resort is listed under the name "Gubio". In the III century BC. NS. its territory was part of the Mauryan Empire - a state in Ancient India that gained historical significance after the campaigns of Alexander the Great.
Rock carvings in Usgalimal, which are more than 20,000 years old 
After the collapse of this huge power, a geopolitical battle for the possession of Goa began, as they would say now. In 1312, it passed to the Muslims, but six decades later they were supplanted by the Vyavinagar Empire. In the XIV-XV centuries, the territory was part of the Vijayanagar Empire, which occupied the entire south of India across the Krishna River. The harbors of the ports of Goa at that time were used as sea gates through which the Vijayanagara cavalry was replenished with first-class Arabian horses.
The unique natural landscape of this area could not fail to attract the attention of the Portuguese who arrived here in 1510. Portugal interested trade routes, through which spices were supplied to Europe from the East, and she sought to establish control over them. In addition, the foreigners, being zealous Christians, sought to spread their faith to new lands. The symbiosis of these tasks led to the fact that in the same year the first Portuguese colony in India was founded by Duke Afonso d'Albuquerque, and Goa became this colony. In 1542, Catholic missionaries arrived here, led by St. Francis Xavier. As the new religion spread, temples and churches that have survived to this day began to be built on this small piece of land - for example, the world famous Basilica of Jesus (Basilica Bom Jesus) in Old Goa. Even today they never cease to amaze with their unique architecture.
Goa Market Square, 1583Over time, Goa received a great impetus for development. The Turks, who traded in spices and monopolized the trade routes in the Indian Ocean, were expelled from the "money place". The territory received the status of a viceroy within the Portuguese Empire. However, the distant metropolis was unable to control the holdings in India. In 1787, an attempt was made to overthrow the Portuguese rule. The event went down in history as "The Conspiracy in Goa", or "The Conspiracy of Souls Pintush" (translated as "The Conspiracy of Chickens"). The reason was the dissatisfaction of many military, clergy and indigenous people with discrimination on racial grounds in promotion. The conspiracy, however, was discovered, and its participants were severely punished, many were hanged and quartered.
In addition, in the 17th century, the struggle against the British, French and Dutch did not stop. As a result, in the next century, Portuguese sovereignty over Goa significantly weakened, and during the period when Europe was shaken by the expansion of Napoleon, the colony was occupied by the British. True, for a short time.
At the end of the 19th century, the struggle for independence flared up with renewed vigor, but only the collapse of the Portuguese Empire in 1910 gave it a powerful impetus. Complete liberation from the colonialists was brought about by the armed invasion of India in 1961, known as Operation Vijay. It lasted 36 hours, during the fighting, 30 Portuguese and 22 Indians were killed. The military action, which ended with the annexation of the former colony, caused a mixed reaction in the world. Portugal broke off diplomatic relations with India, supported by the United States. Soviet Union on the contrary, he sided with the latter, vetoing a UN Security Council resolution urging that country to immediately cease fire and withdraw its troops. After the conflict, Goa received the status of a union territory, and in 1987 was proclaimed a full-fledged Indian state. The language issue was also resolved: Konkani, which was widespread in west coast(Konkan region), recognized as the official language of the territory.
Goa beaches
If in the past, Goa was shaken by political and military battles, today peace and tranquility reign in this paradise, and the life of a popular resort is concentrated in the coastal region. Legends can be made about local beaches, among which there is not a single private one (all run by the state). Basically, the coast here is sandy, the depth increases gradually when entering the sea - you can only dream of such comfort! The water, of course, cannot be called crystal clear, but it is at the complete disposal of vacationers: local fish do not swim here. And although the sand is not sifted, the garbage is regularly removed: during this activity you can meet girls with baskets in their hands.
Well, now about the beaches. It's impossible to tell about all of them, so let's focus on some of the most famous ones.
Let's start with the most picturesque on Goa beach"Om". Its name has nothing to do with the name of the outstanding German physicist of the 19th century, as someone might have thought. It goes back to the sound "Om", which, according to the beliefs of the Hindus, laid the foundation of the universe. Since a narrow strip of beach, bounded by a lush rainforest, resembles the writing of this sound in its shape, this resting place was named so. We will immediately disappoint the surfers: you will not be able to ride the waves due to the shallow water. It will take a long time to dive even on the shoulders. But the ocean temperature here is comfortable, and the black rocks, contrasting with the white sand, look great against the backdrop of the water surface and tropical thickets. Several small restaurants are scattered around the beach, the menu and prices will pleasantly surprise you. Some even have free Wi-Fi.
One of the most famous beaches in Goa is Palolem. It is located in the south of the state, 67 km from Dabolim International Airport. Many travel guides describe Palolem Beach as the most heavenly place in Goa. However, as you know, everyone has their own paradise. In addition to foreign tourists vacationing in Goa, many Indians from neighboring states come here. Palolem is as popular with local residents as the Russian resorts of Sochi. Therefore, if you are looking for peace and quiet, then you are definitely not here. The coastline of Palolem is about two kilometers. This beach is cleaned and tidied up every day, which is why it ranks # 1 in the "Best Beaches in South Goa" ranking for its cleanliness. Palolem is located in the bay, and therefore there are no big waves here. Reviews of tourists repeatedly mention the bright colors of Palolem. This is also emphasized by the houses, painted in festive, cheerful colors. Palolem is a place of all kinds of parties and is great for young people, fun is guaranteed here!
Fans of a quiet, relaxing holiday prefer the Arossim beach with its deserted coast, the finest white sand and the emerald-colored sea. There are three shacks at the service of vacationers - this is how small and quite decent shacks selling food and drinks are called in Goa. In one of them - Venus - Russian-speaking staff. Here you will not find annoying traders or idly walking cows and dogs, but you will see another local "attraction" - crows clinging to tourists. The main attraction (without quotes) on Arossim is the Church of St. Thomas the Apostle. From the entertainment on the beach, one can single out fishing and walks on the sea by boat, jet ski and water skiing. How much will the rental cost? You can find out about this from local residents.
Arossim beachVainiginim Beach is rightfully called a paradise. Located in South Goa, at the mouth of the Zauri River, it is also suitable for lovers of quiet and measured rest. The beach is only 200 meters long, the sand is of an unusual bright yellow color, and the sea water is pleasing to the eye with a bright turquoise hue. The only sad thing is that it is not entirely clean - this is recorded even in satellite photographs. Strong currents are not uncommon here, and in order not to get into the whirlpool, you need to be extremely careful. While sunbathing, you can use the sun loungers of a local five-star hotel - the only one on the beach. From entertainment, scooter rental is available.
Now let's move to Betalbatim - a small village in the southern part of the resort, surrounded by pine trees and has a beautiful 600-meter beach. The sand on the coast is light in color and fine, there is almost no debris on it. The entrance to the water is quite flat, and this is a real gift for those who swim poorly or come on vacation with children. On the Betalbatima beach, if you are staying for a long time, you can enroll in a diving school. Among other entertainments, we will single out the rental of boats, a trip on which promises to meet with friendly dolphins. The sunsets are very beautiful: you want to watch and watch nature, languidly dressing up in twilight "clothes".
On the northern coast of Goa, one of the most famous is Kerim Beach, where you will also be provided with a quiet and quiet rest... Only the sound of the surf and the cries of sea gulls can be distinguished from the sound background, but all this does not count if a tourist wants to escape from a large crowd of tourists and merge with nature. The beach is quite large, it stretches for two kilometers in length, and reaches 20 meters in width. One thing is depressing: here and there heaps of branches are piled up on the territory, which the local authorities seem to have nothing to do with. And one more thing: remember that the beach is secluded, the waves here are almost always high, so it is better not to fall under them - there will be no one to save you. This untouched piece of land, untouched by civilization, has no sun loungers, no water equipment rental, not to mention souvenir shops.
On the Bogmalo beach in the south of Goa, great, surrounded by palm trees Sandy shore... All the necessary infrastructure is at the service of vacationers, including cafes, bars, restaurants (the menu includes not only local, but also European dishes) and the first diving school in India. From the beach equipment you will be offered sun loungers and umbrellas. In walks on the sand, the "company" of vacationers is often made up of cows. The waves along the entire 600-meter coastline are relatively large, so you need to climb them with the utmost care. If an emergency situation nevertheless arises, rescuers will immediately rush to help, by the way, they do not recommend swimming very far. Shoals of dolphins come up to the beach every now and then, usually in the afternoon, and wait for the favorite delicacy from the hands of tourists - ice cream.
Goa landmarks
Goa, this unique corner on the map of India with rich history and ethnocultural diversity, gradually ceases to be associated only with beaches. You can spend your time here not only with sun and sea baths, but also getting food for the mind and heart. Local attractions open up such an opportunity for curious foreigners, because this state is also called the "Big Book of Wisdom".
Acquaintance with the historical and cultural heritage resort, let's start with impregnable fortress Aguada (not to be confused with the municipality of the same name in Puerto Rico on the west coast of the Atlantic). It was built of red stone in 1612 during the time of the Portuguese. The fort is located on the outskirts of Candolim Beach and is one of the largest defensive structures. It has two parts. Fresh water was stored in the upper one, which gave the name to the entire structure, and the lower one served as the coastal protection of Old Goa - the former capital Portuguese colony. The fortification capabilities of the fortress are still in demand today: some of the premises are used as a prison. According to rumors, foreigners are serving their sentences there for using or distributing drugs.
Just 60 km from Panaji is one of the largest waterfalls in the whole country - Dudhsagar. A rainforest untouched by civilization complements its magical water extravaganza, Moreover- harmoniously merges with it, creating a unique landscape that will not leave anyone indifferent. When is the best time to visit the falls? Experienced tourists advise: from November to February. The fact is that in spring it is very hot and high humidity, and in summer the path to the sights can be cut off by the river, which overflows after heavy rainfall.
On the rocks of the Western Ghats, not far from Old Goa, the Arval waterfall rushes from a 50-meter height. The noise of its streams, forming a lake below, is clearly audible already for several kilometers. Not far from the waterfall is the Sri Rudreshwar temple, to which a stone staircase leads. Having visited this place, one cannot ignore the man-made caves of Arval. They were hollowed out by itinerant Buddhists and used as dwellings. It is believed that the caves appeared around the 5th-6th centuries. They are five tunnels that connect into a large common hall the size of two hockey fields. The Sanskrit inscriptions that have survived on the walls are approximately eight centuries old.
Have you heard of the Bundla Nature Reserve, the smallest in Goa? If not, then it's time to find out about it, and upon arrival at the resort - be sure to visit. Its territory is only 8 km², which in no way diminishes the opportunities for leisure, including family ones. This place is really one of the most popular among tourists, because it helps to get away from the sun and sea and plunge into a completely different reality. This primarily applies to children. Your children will definitely remember a walk through the zoo, a visit to the playroom, riding a mini-steam train, and even - but only with their parents! - on a real elephant. For adults and children also Botanical Garden with rare beauty trees and other vegetation.
One of the visiting cards of Goa, its highlight, are spice plantations, the aroma of which will never be forgotten. You will see vanilla, cardamom, cloves and other fragrant herbs, as they say, "live", because a large number of such herbal "gardens" are scattered throughout the state. Gourmets will be especially delighted when in local establishments they have to taste dishes generously seasoned with brightly colored spice powder. In Goa, excursions to these plantations are popular, which are sold directly from impromptu street travel agencies. The program of the stay also includes an elephant ride, a delicious lunch and, of course, belly dancing performed by charming Indian dancers. The most famous plantations in the resort: Sahakari Spice Farms, Savoi Plantation, Pascoal, Tropical Spice Plantation. Most of them are located a few kilometers from the city of Ponda. By the way, excursions to the plantations include a visit to the already mentioned Dudhsagar waterfall.
Among the most popular routes among tourists is the Cathedral of St. Catherine in Old Goa, the largest Christian building not only in India - throughout Asia. Visitors appreciate its architecture, style and interior decoration... There is everything that should be in a full-fledged church: an altar, a font and, of course, bells. In the cathedral, according to the legend, is kept ... "growing cross" - a unique shrine, there is no other such thing anywhere else. According to legend, he appeared in one of the chapels in the 17th century thanks to a local shepherd. At the time of making the cross, Jesus Christ himself appeared to him. What the Messiah and a mere mortal talked about is unknown. But when, after that, the cross was placed in the chapel, it began to grow and already became in size like a crucifix on Calvary. They say that its growth continues today.
We will complete our short acquaintance with the sights of Goa at the Cotigao Nature Reserve, which is located in the south of the state, some 12 km from Palolem Beach, one of the most beautiful in the resort. Everyone, whose foot steps here, can feel like a real Mowgli, because the main beauty of the reserve is the multi-storey jungle. You will not find the graceful Bagheera, the wise Akela or the bloodthirsty Sherkhan here, but playful monkeys that live here in abundance will make a good company for you. Nature Park stretches 60 km south of the capital Goa, on the banks of the Talpona River. In the depths of the forest, there are two 25-meter observation towers, which are the main attractions of Cotigao. They offer a stunning view of the watering hole of wild animals that come here early in the morning and late in the evening. Take a closer look, maybe among them there will be Kipling's four-legged heroes from his "The Jungle Book"?
What to bring as a keepsake
Discovery of the amazing harmony of Goa, acquaintance with the natural wealth, history, architecture and traditions of the former Portuguese colony will be incomplete if you do not find time for shopping. Hiking to local retail outlets can be more than fun. The choice of goods for various purposes is huge here, and it is simply a sin not to use them.
State supermarkets in the state of Goa have fixed prices, which cannot be said about other stores. In addition, most of the goods in them are usually displayed without price tags. This is explained by the so-called double prices: for the local population they are one, for tourists - others, an order of magnitude higher. Do not hesitate to bargain, do it confidently, with a smile on your face, and in just a couple of minutes of "negotiations" with the seller you will be able to achieve a discount of at least 20%. If you are very lucky, you will be able to buy the selected product 2-3 times cheaper from the initial cost.
Separately, it should be said about the local markets, which literally flooded a small state. They look like twins, and the assortment on offer is geared towards tourists in many ways. What is not here: beach and household equipment, exotic fruits and local souvenirs, represented by various amulets, figurines and, of course, elephants in all possible designs (except, of course, live specimens). Goa's most popular souvenir market is perhaps Anjuna, named after a nearby village. The market, which is open on Sundays, immediately attracts attention with its colorful tents, their counters literally sag from the abundance of goods - fabrics and ready-made clothes, jewelry and handicrafts. The selection of spices and fruits is also rich, of course. Shopping in Anjuna is invariably accompanied by fire shows and ethnic drum music, which is somewhat reminiscent of the carnival in Rio, but in Indian style.
Another place favorable for shopping in Goa is called Arambol - a village in the very north of the resort coast, located in a picturesque bay. It is very popular with our compatriots, who note: the prices here are very low, ranging from exotic fruits to Ayurvedic preparations.
So, what should you bring back from your trip to Goa? Indian ceramics are in demand: souvenir mugs, clay toys, luxurious dishes with a diameter of a meter, elaborate ashtrays, lamps, bowls and much more. Local ceramics are distinguished by an unusually bright and rich color scheme. Buyers especially like the blue indigo painting - this color is perceived as a visiting card of India. Where to buy quality ceramics? In the markets or in the Goa Handigrafts chain of specialty stores.
In local retail outlets, wide choose leather products. Lovely ladies can delight themselves with an elegant handbag or original shoes, and representatives of the stronger sex - with a leather wallet, a case for glasses or ... a camel-skin water bottle called "Kopi". Tourists who don't count money buy ... leather saddles. Yes, not simple, but souvenir: they are trimmed with precious metal, painted and geometric patterns are applied.
Local carpets are considered to be the most practical and at the same time classic souvenirs from India. There are a huge number of manufacturing techniques, so we will not dwell on them. It is enough to list the names: ahri, gabba, namda, dope. Name any of them, and the seller will immediately demonstrate the corresponding sample. The purpose of carpets is also different. Russians and Europeans most often buy wall carpets that stand out for their ornate patterns, which can be hung at home. But tourists, for example, from Islamic countries, will definitely want to purchase special prayer mats.
In Indian films, which our mothers and grandmothers love, the heroes often show off in various jewelry. In life, the situation is the same: this large country is one of the five world leaders in the production of jewelry, and Goa does not lag behind the rest of India. The pride of the popular resort is rightfully called first-class pearls, from which local craftsmen make original women's bracelets and bangles worn on the wrist or ankle. Prices jump, directly depending on the degree of purity of the metal and the quality of work, but you can still find an inexpensive silver or gold product - for example, a beautiful ring. Most importantly, do not forget to bargain and do not lose your vigilance. Unscrupulous sellers often overestimate gold samples and try to slip artificial analogues instead of natural precious stones. If your price is quickly dropped, it should be alarming: jewelry can not be sold for next to nothing anywhere in the world, even in India.
And, of course, no tourist will leave Goa without local gifts of nature - environmentally friendly products that have become the hallmark of not only this region, but the whole country. The taste of local tropical fruits - oranges, passionfruit, mango, carambola, guava, bananas - will remain in your memory forever! Yes, we almost forgot about Indian tea, known all over the world. Traditional black and green, as well as Assam and Darjeeling varieties are in great demand. The latter belongs to the elite, it is even compared to champagne, thereby emphasizing the golden hue of the infusion and the exquisite delicate aroma. Gourmets also buy "exotic" red tea, which is cultivated far from Goa, in the Nilgiri district in the south of the country.
Goa entertainment
Beach vacation, sightseeing trips and wellness treatments right in the hotels - this is not a complete list of what a tourist can do in this heavenly resort. Travelers who love gambling can try their luck at Goa's numerous casinos, which around the clock immerse their visitors in a world where the deepest dream of a big win can come true.
Fans of active sports will not be left "at a loss": the local coast of the Arabian Sea, famous for its coral reefs, is the best suited for diving, during which divers will be accompanied by exotic tropical fish. According to some reports, shores of Goa, at the bottom of the sea, rests about 600 ships, wrecked, among which are not only old galleons and merchant ships, but also military ships of the Second World War. Seeing this underwater "cemetery" is a real find every diver dreams of.
Whenever you come to Goa, you will definitely find yourself on some national holiday in India, which anyone can take part in. In winter, for example, the country celebrates the Day of the Republic and the Holiday of the Three Kings. In the village of Fatorpe, celebrations in honor of the goddess Shantadurga Prasanna are very exciting: night processions are arranged, their scope and splendor are simply amazing. In spring, Hindus celebrate the birthday of the god Rama and the holiday of "walking on fire" - Igitun Chalne, dedicated to the goddess Lairayu. During it, the participants walk on fire in the literal sense - on hot coals. Summer holidays are also dedicated to various saints, including Christian ones, for example, John the Baptist and St. Anthony. There are also many holidays in autumn, and the most famous of them is Govardhana Puja, dedicated to the most revered animal in India - the cow.
Buses run between towns and villages. Also within the state, rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are in demand both among the local population and among tourists. In large cities of the state - Panaji, Margao, Vasco da Gama, Old Goa, Mapusa, Ponda - there are intracity routes.
There are three types of taxis at the resort: autorickshaws (also called tuk-tuk), motorcycle taxis (you will be taken with a breeze on a motorcycle or moped) and ordinary cars. The yellow numbers make it easy to identify the official taxis - they are run by the State Department of Transportation. Sometimes private taxi drivers pretend to be state carriers (the services of the latter are cheaper), and then, having lured and set off, demand additional payment from the unfortunate passengers.
Sunset at Agonda beachMobile communications and Internet
To buy a SIM card from a local mobile operator, you need to go through some bureaucratic formalities. You will be required to have a color photograph and photocopies, on two different A4 sheets, the first page of your passport and visa. Then you fill out the form and leave your personal signature in four different places.
You can also call from Goa to Russia from a regular telephone booth marked STD. A minute of conversation will cost 8 Indian rupees, the fee can be paid, for example, at the hotel. Calling home from a SIM card of a Russian operator or from a hotel will cost more, from 40 to 120 INR.
Wireless access to the World Wide Web is possible in an Internet cafe, but the pleasure is not free, for an hour you will have to pay from 40 to 80 rupees. Good Wi-Fi coverage is available in four and five star hotels and in some restaurants. Purchasing a SIM card for Internet access involves the same formalities as a telephone one. If you are planning a long-term stay in Goa, you can buy a modem from one of the telephone companies: MTS, Idea, Airtel or Vodafone, the cost is 2 thousand rupees. For a subscription fee of 900 INR, a month of unlimited Internet access is given.
Hotels and Accommodation
There are many hotels in Goa, so it will not be difficult for tourists to find an accommodation option in accordance with the tastes and capabilities of the wallet. Note that the "star" classification of hotels in India has not really taken root, so the indexes in various catalogs on the number of "stars" reflect the personal impressions of the compilers.
Hotels in both parts of Goa are markedly different. There are a lot of hotels in the north, both expensive and quite budget. The latter are much larger and they are not located in the beach area, but at some distance, within a 5-30 minute walk. Many hotels offer a roundtrip beach shuttle service, free of charge. Hotels that correspond to the 5 * level offer their clients the services of traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda) and SPA procedures. It is believed that in the south of the state, whose business card is wide beaches and luxurious palm groves, there are more predominantly expensive hotels suitable for family vacation... It is here that the luxury hotels are located, which have become the face of the entire resort: Caravela Beach Resort Beleza By The Beach 
A lot of tourists, mainly young people, prefer Goa independent rest"Savages". They do not want to stay in ordinary hotels, preferring a room in an inexpensive mini-hotel (guesthouse), rent apartments or even whole houses. This option is also suitable for travelers on a budget. Wealthier foreigners, who also do not favor hotels, choose to stay in separate villas.
How to get there
Direct flights from Moscow to Goa are operated by Aeroflot and Transaero. During the high season, which lasts from November to March at the resort, both carriers fly almost daily. Aeroflot operates flights from Sheremetyevo (except Tuesday), Transaero - from Sheremetyevo and Domodedovo (except Monday). A direct flight from the capital of Russia takes from 7 to 9 hours. Tickets can be purchased at Aviasales, the cost of a round trip varies between 30-100 thousand rubles. The only international airport in the state is Dabolim, it is located in the area of the village of the same name, 4 km from Vasco da Gama, and consists of two terminals.
Many domestic tourists prefer to get to Goa by rail... First they fly to Mumbai (formerly Bombay) and get on the train there. Travel time is approximately 9-13 hours. This option attracts, first of all, its relative cheapness. You can go to the resort directly from Delhi, only you will have to spend twice as much time on the train - 30 hours. The closest stations to the tourist areas are Madgaon, Tivim and Karmali stations, so it is best to go there. When buying a ticket, be sure to make sure that the train stops at the station of your choice.
