The smallest yet most popular sanctuary in Goa, it is located in Ponda Taluka in the northeastern part of the city. Contained in a very small area of just 8 km, the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is covered with moist deciduous forest and evergreen vegetation patches. This little sanctuary proudly houses a Mini Zoo, Rose Garden, Deer Safari Park, Botanical Gardens, Nature Education Centre and Eco-Tourism Cottages within its premises.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a picturesque location with a beautiful landscape and and lush greenery all around. This place provides a very soothing natural environment to its inhabitants. The sanctuary provides habitat to a large number of wild animals and a variety of bird species. Some of the occupants here are panthers, Asiatic lions, a variety of deer, crocodiles, snakes, wild cats, etc. Birds like Kingfishers, Hornbills, Yellow Bulbul, Woodpeckers, etc., are also sighted here. The Nature Education Centre, exclusively set up here, imparts useful knowledge about the wildlife to its visitors by showcasing a number of exhibits, books and videos.
The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is much popular among school children and animal lovers, and a favorite destination for the schools and families. The impressive collection of a variety of plants also proves beneficial for researchers and the students of Botany. Being an Eco-tourism destination, it is looked upon greatly by the state. One can even choose to stay at the sanctuary, as comfortable accommodation is provided by the forest department. The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary provides an exquisite experience to its visitors, especially during early mornings and evenings. Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Thursdays) Entry Fee: Rs. 5 (adults); Rs. 2 (children) Parking charges: Rs. 10 for bikes; Rs. 50 for cars Cameracharges: Rs.25. Video camera: Rs.100 Accommodation: Cottages - Rs. 1,000 per day; dormitories - Rs. 600 per head.
Sight Address : Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is 53 kilometres away from the state capital, Panaji.
Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is the Molem National Park.Within the Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, herds of deer and gaurs (Indian bison), clusters of monkeys, Malayan giant squirrels, cobras and pythons are housed in the sanctuary. There are also elephants and tigers, but spotting them could be a tough job. The sanctuary is also home to a few black panthers; and spotting them is not an easy task either.
History This area was first known as Mollem Game Sanctuary. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1969 and renamed as Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary. The core area of the sanctuary covering 107 square kilometres (41 sq mi) was notified as Mollem National Park in 1978.
Location: 9 km from Bicholim, North Goa
Apart from the admirable beaches and waterfalls, Goa is also one of the most sought after destinations for heritage architectures. Goa is an ancient state and so is the architecture found here. A beautiful example of the historical monuments present in Goa is the Arvalem Caves or the “Pandava Caves”. Located in the Bicholim town of North Goa, these caves are ancient rock cut caves that give us a chance to steep into the mythological tales. The origin of these caves dates back to the 6th century. Popularly known as the Pandava Caves, these caves have derived their name from the five Pandavas of the epic Mahabharata. As the legend has it, the Pandavas sought refuge in these caves during their exile. The presence of five compartments and Shivlingas in the cave complex provides relevance of this fact. However, the caves have also been claimed to be of Buddhist origin due to presence of a huge statue of Buddha near the place. The architectural style of the caves also speaks loud of the Buddhist possession. The opinions regarding the origin of the caves have been ambivalent from years. The architecture of the caves is simple yet appealing. The walls are plain with no paintings on them. The rock structure has been cut into laterite stone. The mysterious look of the caves has been attracting the tourists over long years. The presence of the famous Rudreshwar temple and a waterfall in its vicinity, makes this place a must visit in Goa. Timings: 9 am - 1 pm and 2 pm - 5 pm Entry: Free
Location: Arvalem, North Goa
A thunderous spurt of water beautifully cascading down a rocky terrain of a mountain! This is the picture of the splendrous Arvalem Waterfalls in Goa. Popularly known as the Harvalem Waterfalls, it is located at Arvalem, around 9 km from Bicholim, North Goa. With water falling headlong from a height of 70 meters, it makes up for an absolutely breathtaking view. The Arvalem waterfall is at its glorious best right after the monsoon, with eye-catching beauty that exhilarates the tourists. A huge lake is formed at the bottom which is much popular amongst the swimmers. The color of the waterfall becomes muddy brown because of the monsoon rains and the water flow is quite less. The area has lush greenery all around it with fruit laden trees adding to the beauty of the scenery.
The Arvalem waterfall is one of the most crowded tourist spots in Goa. The Government has, therefore, developed a park at the site where one can peacefully sit and adore the charisma of the waterfall. In the vicinity of the waterfall lies the temple of Rudreshwar which holds great importance for the Hindus. Another major attraction of this place is the rock-cut caves that give it a historical touch and are also popular amongst the film-makers.
The astounding charm of this secluded place with a mesmerizing view of water descending into the lapse of mother nature, makes this place an ideal location for rejuvenating the soul.
Location:Near Margao, Goa
Also known as: Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, Raiturchi Patriarkal Siminar (in Konkani) Rachol Seminary in Goa was established in 1609 as the College of All Saints and later to pay homage to founder of Jesuit Order, St. Ignatius of Loyola, the seminary was renamed College of St Ignatius. It has witnessed an era of transitions and has played a crucial role in preserving Christianity and its rich heritage.
You would love the green ways that lead to the Seminary from Margao. The corridors of the Rachol Seminary have an aroma of its history and you just need to breathe it all. Every corridor (Infirmary, Priest’s, Rector’s Sacristy, Seminary) is adorned with paintings, each having a unique story. The Church inside it has the statue of Saint Constantine, first Roman emperor who got converted to Christianity. The altar is beautifully carved and decorated. It is said that the bones of the saint were brought to this church from Rome and kept in a glass vial that even had his blood drops.
Feasts and Festivals celebrated in the Church: 1st Sunday of August and 1st January One can also explore the underground tunnels, museum and underwater tank that the seminary has. It also houses one of the oldest printing press of India where Christian works of literature were published. For a complete experience, walk down to the river and relish the peaceful beauty around you. The seminary offers a three-year Philosophy course (affiliated to IGNOU) and a four year Theology course.
Quick Tips: This is a place for history lovers! Accessibility can be an issue because of poor public transport options. Make adequate arrangements for the same.
Location:10 km from Mapusa, near Vagator Beach, Goa
Once neglected, the Fort of Chapora got popularized by the movie Dil Chahta Hai (therefore, also known as the Dil Chahta Hai Fort) and is now a prime attraction of Goa. Trekking up to the fort can be strenuous during the day, but its a great place to make your evening memorable. A silent stroll and picturesque sunset views are pleasing.
If you are expecting something unique from the historical ruins of the fort, then the Chapora Fort may disappoint you. You would only get to see huge, irregular, red laterite stone walls, a gate, bastions with cylindrical turrets, a few vague barracks and weeded bushes. It is the best place to capture perfect shots – Vagator beach, Morjim beach or the Arabian Sea, you will never get tired of clicking there! It is a perfect place to hangout with best of your companions or to spend a peaceful, time alone, away from the chaotic mayhem of life.
Goa is not merely a destination, it is an experience. Among the numerous churches in Goa, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is a worthwhile exploration. This Portuguese piece of architecture is counted among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and mesmerizes all its visitors. This Jesuit Church is the first minor Basilica in India.
Location: Old Goa, Goa
Key Attractions: The exteriors of the church are not plastered and add an impressive, rustic feel to the entire structure. The surrounding parks are well maintained. With marble flooring, the ‘Mosaico-Corinthian’ interiors are simple and elegant. Covered with gold, the altar looks gorgeous.
Besides the alter, there are two chapels, a sacristy and a choir. It houses the tomb and mortal remains of St Francis Xavier, one of the patron saints of Goa. Devotees even come to see the remains of the saint and surprisingly, even after 400 years, it is in a very good condition. The casket that contains the body is beautifully crafted out of silver. The public display last happened in 2004 and is held every ten years. Bom Jesus Basilica Art Gallery preserves some excellent pieces of art by Dom Martin, the Goan Surrealist painter.
The museum on the first floor has paintings on the life of Saint Francis that can be visited with an entry fee of Rs. 5. The wooden sculpture of the museum is in itself a sight to cherish.
The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception – Its simplicity defines its beauty and the purity is its soul
Popular as the Panjim Church, the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception is among the prime attractions of the city. It is one of the oldest churches in Goa and the architecture is amazing. This church has also been popular as a film shooting location. Each year, on 8th December the Feast of Immaculate Conception is celebrated and the church is beautifully decorated. A huge bell was installed at the Panjim Church that belonged to the Augustinian Church of Our Lady. The bell is so heavy, due to which the entire pediment had to be renovated before installation. It is even acclaimed as the second largest bell in the world.
The interior of the church is simple and pleasing. There are three altars inside the Church – the main one dedicated to Mary Immaculate, one to Jesus and the third one to Our Lady of the Rosary. Marble statues of St Peter and St Paul are also there in the church. The view of Panjim city from the top is just astonishing. Bairro Altos de Pilotos, or the area above the church can also be visited. Earlier large beacons were lit here to guide ships.
The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception should not be ruled out of your travel itinerary. The white exteriors with blue highlight look stunning, particularly in the evening. The experience is admirable.
Built in 1612, Fort Aguada is a picturesque fort situated on Sinquerim beach in Goa. Aguada is a Portuguese word which means “Watering Place” and the fort was built by the then Portuguese rulers for providing fresh water supply to the ships passing by in the Arabian Sea. As you enter the fort’s premises, it will remind you of numerous Bollywood movies scenes which have been shot here.
Fort Aguada comprises of a lower fort which is surrounded by bastions all around and an upper fort. The lower port was primarily made for providing a safe cover to Portuguese ships while the upper fort was built to serve as a watering station to the ships. After exploring further, you will see there is a gunpowder room in the upper fort and a lighthouse. Another reason of building the fort was to protect the Portuguese establishments from the Dutch and Marathas.
As the fort is located on a hilly area covered by dense forests so one can expect sweltering heat during summers, special care should be taken during rains because the dense forest cover makes it a bit difficult to maneuver through the hilly passage.
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located on the Chorao islands, named after the world famous ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, covering an area of approx 1.8 sq km, the park is located on a beautiful island which has not dropped any of its old Portuguese charm complete with villas and Churches which are whitewashed. Covered by exquisite greenery which includes mangrove vegetation and washed by a network of mini river streams and tributaries the sanctuary plays host to a variety of birds such as eagles, kites, kingfishers, egrets, parrots, cormorants, herons etc.Coots and Pintails visit during the winter season. Apart from the Bird Kingdom, the Sanctuary also plays host to animals like crocodiles, jackals and otters. Visiting Time 6:00:00 AM – 6:00:00 PM Time Required for Sight seeing 2-3 hours. Ticket Required : Yes Individual National Adult Rs. : Rs.10/- Kids Rs. : N.A. Individual Foreigner Adult Rs. : Rs.100/- Kids Rs. : N.A. Still Photo Camera Rs. : Rs.25/- Video Camera Rs. : Rs.150/-
The Island forms a great surprise for those seeking adventures and comprises of a small rocky beach and a small stretch of green.
The Bat Island is famous for snorkeling and is considered a perfect destination for the snorkelers. For snorkeling, the training and equipment are provided by the tour organizers and operators. The island provides a very interesting stopover along the Goan coast and can be reached by a 30 minute ride into the sea.
At the Pequeno or the Bat Island one can also enjoy a day off as there are numerous boatmen who moor themselves off Vasco. A boat can be hired from them or they can be asked to reach one off at the island. The boatman can then be asked to come and pick one up the next day. Thus one can enjoy a whole day off at a private little beach of their own.
The Pequeno or Bat Island of Goa is a very popular destination for many holiday makers around the world. The Pequeno Island is a great place for tourists to visit, especially those who are looking for some adventure while they are holidaying in Goa. The Pequeno Island has mostly rocky beaches, but they are strikingly beautiful. There is also a small stretch of greenery on the island. The Island is surrounded by vivid coral reef. It would be a delightful experience to explore this magnificent star coral, brain coral, sea fans, sea whips and many other sea creatures while snorkeling in the Pequeno Island. Apart from these, hundreds of colorful shoals can be seen swimming just near you. There are parrot fish, angel fish, squirrel fish, butterfly fish, groupers, snappers, trigger fish, lobsters, hawksbill turtle, sea cucumbers and sea urchins that you can see while you are exploring the sea.
The history of Shri Mangireesh or (Shri Mangueesh or Shri Mangesh) dates back to the Puranas. The Sahyadri Khand of Skand Purana says that Parshuram invited 66 Panch Gaud Brahmins belonging to 10 gotras from Trihotra (believed to be Tirhut in Bihar) to Kushasthal (now known as Kutthal, Goa) for performing the Yadnya after wiping out the Kshatriyas. Each group had brought with it the idol they used to worship and installed it in the villages donated by Parshuram out of the land reclaimed by him from the sea. Those belonging to the Vatsa and Kaundinya gotra received Kushasthal as gram dan and installed in the village their family deity, Shri Mangireesh. The Purana explains that the Bramha had established the Shivalinga at Monghir in Trihotra and it came to be known as Mangireesh or Mangeesh.
It is stated that when Parvati was in search of Shiva, she was scared at the site of a tiger that was Shiva himself and shouted for help from him. However, instead of saying “Trahiman Gireesh” she said: “Trahimangeesh!!” out of fear and nervousness. The Gomantak Kshetra Mahatmya reports the second avatar of Shri Mangireesh in Goa in the same fashion. Lord Shiva settled down in Kushasthal and Parvati in a neighbouring village. His temple at Kushasthal was a place of pilgrimage till the Portuguese took over this part of the territory in Goa in 1560. On the site of the temple now stands a church.
Shri Mangeshi In 1560, anticipating the onslaught of the Portuguese, the devotees had moved Shri Mangesh Shivalinga from Kutthal to a safer place under a Hindu prince. Surrounded by hillocks and covered by forests, the Shivalinga was kept at a place, which now is known as Mangeshi. The Peshwas donated in 1739, the village of Mangeshi to the temple on the suggestion of their Sardar, Shri Ramchandra Malhar Sukhtankar, who was a life-long devotee of Shri Mangesh.
Since then this little village on the Panaji-Ponda road has become a place of pilgrimage for the followers of the Lord and an attraction for the tourists from rest of the country and outside.
Known for its natural beauty and pleasant surroundings, Mangeshi is still a hamlet with about 1,000 families. But it is a center of culture and the musicians from this place have earned countrywide reputation as master singers for several generations.
Early Temples From the Portuguese records, it appears that the temples in the sixteenth century after shifting in distress to this part of Goa were only sheds covered with coconut leaves and supported by trunks of betelnut trees.
The Portugals had banned the construction and repairs of temples. It would therefore appear that the first temple in forest area of Mangeshi could be no better than a shed. Subsequently, the temple might have been built around 1744. It was supported by wooden pillars which have been preserved. The devotees enriched the temple and it is probable that ancillary temples were built thereafter over a period.
The intermittent outbreak of rebellions in Goa obliged the Portuguese to abandon their policy of antagonism to Hindus and to enact progressive legislation in 1866. Twenty years had, however, to go before Shri Mangesh Temple could be brought under the Act and Goa could be assured of political stability and security. Thus marked the beginning of new phase for Goa of which Mangeshi is but a part.
This temple was a source of inspiration to many for spiritual pursuits. Towards the end of eighteenth century, Naik Swami, who was resting in the temple on his way to Kashi, dreamt that Mangeshi was nothing else but Kashi itself. He accordingly spent the rest of his life in Mangeshi itself to serve the Lord. Among the numerous books written by him mention may be made of the poetic translation in Marathi of Shri Shiva Gita. His death anniversary is observed on Vaishakh Vadya Dwadashi.
The Present Temple Following the adoption of the constitution in 1885 for the management of temple and its properties, the plan for constructing the present temple by raising funds from the devotees was conceived. The work commenced in October 1888 and the temple was ready in 1890. The temple is a modern piece of architecture blended with traditional Hindu pattern. The entrance to the temple bears an image, which wards off everything impure from the inner precincts of the temple and maintains its sanctity.
In front of the entrance but slightly to the north stands the Deepa Stambha, the column of lights. History does not record when it was built, but judging by the pattern of its construction, it might have been built during the first half of the eighteenth century. It is the tallest and most imposing column in Goa and looks most beautiful on festival nights when illuminated with traditional oil lamps.
The temple of Shree Shantadurga devi was originally at Keloshi. In Keloshi Shree Shantadurga Devi was known as Santeri devi and was worshipped by that name. Shree Shantadurga's temple was built at Keloshi by an affluent merchant, Anu Shenai Mone.
With the advent of the Portuguese in Goa and the increasing missionary activities, the community was afraid for the safety of the temples and idols. Hence the families worshipping Shree Shantadurga and Shree Mangesh, on a moonless night, leaving their homes and hearths behind crossed over the Juari river (also known as Aghashashini or Agashi river) with the images (murti) of the deities and the linga on their heads and shifted to the region under the rule of Muslim king Adilshaha. Via Dandi they reached the village Kavalem in Antruj village and chose a site with beautiful surroundings to install the image of Shree Shantadurga. It is indeed surprising that a new place could be found by the devotees for installation of Shree Shantadurga with exactly the same scenic beauty as available at Keloshi. The patron deity Shree Mangesh was installed in Priyol in Ponda Taluka. The place is now known as Mangeshi (its original name is not known though some believe that it was earlier known as Ganapati Wada). Antruj was too small a place to accommodate all the G.S.B.families who went there to escape the Portuguese harassment. They naturally dispersed in all directions but always regarded the temples as a link between them. Their voluntary contributions and later active patronage of Peshwas improved and enriched the temples.
There is some confusion regarding the exact date of shifting of these deities to a new place. However, as per the Portuguese records the deities were shifted sometime between 14 January 1566 and 29 November 1566. Shortly after shifting, both the original temples got demolished. Now the plot on which the original temple of Shree Shantadurga stood at Keloshi is known as "Deoolbhata" and it is in the possession of the temple trust. However, at Kushasthali it is believed that a Church stands in place of Shree Mangesh temple.
The village Kavalem belonged to the Harijan community. The people from the village were kind enough to provide a safe place for installation of the Devi. The idol of the Devi was installed in a small house in that village. After some time the house where the Devi was placed took form of a small temple and regular prayers were held in the temple.
The devotees of Shree Shantadurga did not forget the kindness shown by the Harijan community by providing a safe place for the Devi. All the people from the community were invited to the temple and were felicitated. This incident took place on Magha Shukla Shashthi day. Since then every year on the Magha Shukla Shashthi day the temple authorities invite the Harijans from the Kavalem and honour them by presenting them with Devi's saree, blouse piece, coconut, etc. This custom is being observed for the last four centuries without fail.
During those days, that part of Goa was ruled by a Muslim ruler, Adilshah and his representative for the area was a person called Sardesai, who belonged to the Saraswat community. This gave a sense of security to the community and patronage from the ruler for the temple. Shri Sardesai would always be present for the palkhi processions taken for the Devi. And slowly it became a custom to start the palkhi procession only in the presence of a member of the Sardesai family.
There are no records with the Temple trusties to indicate the exact time when the temple was constructed at the current location [Kavlem]. However, the records available establish that the current structure of the temple was in existence between 1713 A.D. and 1738 A.D. During the 20th century, the structure of the temple underwent repairs from time to time for maintenance and renovation.
The inspiration to build the temple was given by the Goddess (Devi) Shree Shantadurga to Shri Naroram Mantri. Shri Naroram Mantri was originally from Kochar village in the Vengurla region. His full name was Naroram Shenvi Rege and he was called Naroram Mantri as he was a Mantri [minister] in the Shahu Chatrapati's Court during the period 1723 a.d. He believed that he could attain the fame and fortune only because of the blessings of Shree Shantadurga devi. He felt that he should build a new temple for the Devi with his own money. He started building the temple building around 1730 a.d and with the help from other mahajans, the currently huge and beautiful temple was completed. Due to his efforts the village Kavalem was given as a gift to the temple by Shahu Maharaja in the year 1739 a.d . Shri Naroram Mantri also gave many donations to the temple. In view of his priceless contribution in making of the temple, Shri Naroram Mantri and his descendents are given the highest respect next to our Dharmaguru/Swamiji. His descendents get all the respect and facilities from the temple people and trust whenever they visit the temple. They have a reserved place in the temple for sitting during the pujas and arti. The place near the middle pillar on the northern side in the temple is reserved for this family. This pillar is called the Mantri Khamb [pillar]. For bringing them from their house to the temple, people with mashal (lighted torch) are sent. Also, any kind of musical program held in the temple in their presence is concluded only after obtaining their permission. His descendents also have the right to see the Prasadvastra of Devi [cloths offered to the Devi by the devotees] before leaving Kavlem.
Sight Address : Go-Karting race tracks in Nuvem, situated towards north of Margao (South Goa)
Go-karting is surely catching up in India and is the latest craze in Goa. It is suitable for those that have a passion of driving in the fastest lane and requires no special training beforehand. There are two venues for go-karting in Goa, one each in the North & South. The go-karting track in Nuvem, South Goa is very popular and is one of the best in India. It is 482 m long with lots of twists and regularly holds the Goan leg for JK Tyre National Go Karting Championship. Here one can see a giant display board that displays all the racing statistics and average speeds of 70 kilometers per hour (44 miles per hour) are common here.
History The venue at Nuvem on the Panaji-Margao Highway has successfully hosted three go-karting events at this venue since inauguration in 2001, which also included the JK Tyre national karting championships. Goa’s ace formula car rally driver Narain Kartikeyan also participated in the first championship. Go-karts are non-geared and quickly mastered.
Sight Address : Windsurfing is a number of beaches in Goa such as the beaches of Bogmalo, Miramar, Calangute, Arossim, Uttorda, Benaulim, Vagator, Baga etc also attract visitors to carry out the adventure of windsurfing.
Windsurfing, a major attraction for the lovers of water sport in Goa India is known to give you utmost fun.Windsurfing in Goa is among the prominent water sports of Goa. A unique combination of surfing and sailing, windsurfing in Goa India requires the surfer to balance his body against the changing currents of water and air. The windsurfer needs to transform and harmonize the vacillating forces of the wind and water to obtain the required amount of balance and direction that are the key words of windsurfing at Goa India. Windsurfing is known to be an invigorating experience for the fun seekers who have learnt the art of balancing their bodies with the tides of water and wind.The experts and trainers of windsurfing in Goa claim that Dona Paula beach in Goa is one of the best venues for windsurfing in Goa India. According to them, the conditions at this beach are similar to that of a lake that provide best environment for a learner early in the morning. Tourists who are more experienced in windsurfing can look forward to visiting this beach during afternoons as the winds are strong ad offer you an exhilarating experience of windsurfing in Goa India.
Sight Address : Microlite flying was first introduced in Goa at Anjuna Beach. At present the facility of Microlite-Flying is available only at the Calangute in Goa
Microlite flying is the latest addition to one of the many activities in Goa . A Microlite is a motorized machine (much like an aeroplane) that has a forty feet wing span. It can accommodate only about 2-3 people including the operator. Microlite flying is slowly becoming a new liking among young aviation enthusiasts in India. Every year many people go to Goa to enjoy the thrill of Microlite flying.A basic Microlite is assembled from commercially available parts. Usually it uses a certified motorcycle engine or lawnmower engine, although you can even use costlier engines as well. Assembling a Microlite can be real fun. You can assemble a Microlite for just around 5-6 lakhs of rupees. A Microlite travels at an approximate speed of 120 kilometers per hour consuming about 14 liters of petrol in each hour. It can stay in air for about 5 hrs at a stretch. Some Microlites are designed in such a way, that it can open up elements when the wind is rushing against you.A single-seater Microlite should if possible weigh less than 330 kg and a twin-seater, should weigh less than 450 kg. A Microlite can fly up to a height of around 11,000 feet. To be on the safe side, many fliers choose to stick closer to the ground – at a height of 3000 feet from the ground. Microlite flying is relatively new to the India skies. India’s ex-prime minister Rajiv Gandhi used to indulge in this sport back in the 80’s. Since then Microlite flying has gained momentum in India. Microlite flying was first introduced in Goa at Anjuna Beach, in November 2004 by Nikki’s travel services.
