Goa

Nestled on the western coast and looking out onto the vast Arabian Sea, Goa is a model of unique incongruities in India. Goa is India’s smallest state by area. It is the richest state with a per capita GDP two and a half times higher. It ranks first for infrastructure, places first for the best quality of life, and is known for its laid-back lifestyle. However, its own popularity inherently challenges it. Still, people treasure Goa for its slice of paradise. It beckons all those needing a relaxing respite from the hectic world.

Primarily influenced by its Portuguese history, Panaji offers terraced hills with brightly colored concrete buildings, quaint balconies, and red-tiled roofs. It features tall white Latin-styled churches and elegant promenades. Renowned for its beaches, places of worship, and world heritage architecture, Goa attracts many international and domestic visitors each year.

Panaji: Goa

Meaning the “Land that Never Floods”, Panaji is the capital of Goa and is its third largest city. With pronounced Portuguese influence since the early 16th century, the city has terraced hills dotted with brightly colored buildings. These buildings display quaint balconies, red-tiled roofs, tall white Latin-styled churches, and elegant promenades. The care-free ambiance of the city encourages visitors to adopt a relaxed attitude in return.

Our Lady of the Immaculate : Conception is a grand Baroque church, erected in 1540.
It stands as an iconic example of Portuguese influence with its whitewashed “wedding cake” style.
The church features tiers of arches above and colonnades of zig-zagging staircases below.

Secretariat Building: Also built in the 16^thcentury, this Colonial style building was originally the palace for the Muslim ruler Adil Shah. Subsequently sequestered as the Viceroy’s official residence during the British Raj, this stately building is now home to various government offices.

Goa State Museum: With a region peppered with the cultures of such a diverse nature, this museum is likely the perfect spot to get your bearings as to the storied past of the state of Goa throughout the centuries.

Dudhsagar Falls: Translated as the “Sea of Milk”, this section of the Mandovi River lies about 60km from Panaji. The Dudhsagar Falls closely resemble this image of a cascade of milk in the shape of a large dress, a tribute to the virtue and modesty of the Princess.