Goa Holiday – Explore Fascinating Natural Beauty & Rich Heritage Architecture

Postcard Picturesque, Goa is India’s tiniest state and a vacationers’ hot spot. Heavenly beauty coupled with pleasant climatic conditions here create a soothing atmosphere perfect to relax and rejuvenate one’s spirits. Natural beauty at Goa’s tropical coastline is truly awesome, though architectural grandeurs, traditions & cultures, modern ambiences in the state are also quite popular among tourists. In fact, Goa holiday is the perfect treat for those seeking for delightful holidays within the arms of nature.

After 450 years of colonial rule and 26 years as a Union territory, Goa attained statehood in 1987. This tiny heaven is wedged in the Konkan region at the Western coast of India, and is ranked one of the country’s best places for its infrastructure and quality of life. Goa has many places of national importance: three major cities, two towns and numerous scenic villages to visit on. A trip to Goa is famous for fun at coral beaches, visit to the places of worship and interesting customs & cultures to explore. Owing to its strategic location on the Western Ghats region, the state has been classified as a biodiversity hotspot in India.

Goa has a great spiritual and historical significance. The state is mentioned in various holy books including Mahabharata, Vamsha Purana and Skanda Purana. The first literary reference of Goa is found in Mahabharata as ‘Gomanta’ that means a region of cows. It’s said that Goa was formed by the great sage Parashurama who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. According to the legend, Parashurama was ostracized from the land he had once inhibited. So the sage pushed back the sea using seven arrows and created a space for himself. The region established by Prashurama is known as Parashurama kshetra. Later on, a number of Brahmins were brought from the North and asked to settle down there.

In 3rd century BC, Goa was a part of Mauryan Empire ruled by the king Ashoka of Mugadha. Then over the years, it was prevailed with many strong dynasties such as Chutus, Satavahanas, Abhiras, Bhojas and Chalukyas. Delhi Sultanate took Goa under its governance in the early 13th century. But due to weak administration, Goa came under the rule of Harihara I of Vijayanagar Emporere by 1370. Portuguese entered the Goa territory around 15th century and defeated the ruling Bijapur kings with help of local allies. They established colonies in Goa influence of that is still visible in the state. After India got independence in 1947 from the British rule, Portuguese denied leaving Goa, but on 19 December 1961 when Indian Army commenced Operation Vijay, Portuguese had to go and India got this region under its control.

Goa is rapidly growing as tourists’ hot spot with myriads of attractions and all tourism facilities being available there. People from the far corners of the globe come to enjoy Goa’s amazing beauty and a range of water sports. One can easily plan a trip to Goa beaches as numerous companies provide tour packages to Goa customized according to one’s needs and budget.