Goa-Location

Goa is India's smallest state by area and is located in the Western Ghats. It is situated on the west coast of India in the region known as the Konkan, it is bounded by the state of Maharashtra to the north, and by Karnataka to the east and south, while the Arabian Sea forms its western coast.

Panaji is the state's capital, while Vasco da Gama is the largest city. Goa is the fourth smallest state by population. It is a tropical paradise, bathed by the warm waters of the Arabian Sea. Goa is known as "Pearl of the Orient" and a "Tourist Paradise".

Goa was liberated by the Indian Army from Portuguese colonisation on December 19, 1961 and became an Union Territory along with the enclaves of Daman and Diu. On May 30, 1987 Goa was conferred statehood and became the 25th state of the Indian Republic.

Goan culture is a blend of Indian and Iberian. Christianity and Hinduism exist side by side in this state. Portuguese churches sharing their walls with Hindu temples. All the communities have mutual respect towards one another and their secular outlook has given Goa a long and an unbroken tradition of religious harmony. Having been ruled by the colonial Portuguese for over 450yrs, there is still a distinctive European flavor that has permeated all aspects of Goa's life including its food, religion, language, festivals, dances and names.

Goa is best known for its spectacular beaches and luxurious hotels but there are many old churches, monuments, temples and museums, that are a must see. It is also one of the biggest Christian pilgrimage sites in Asia as it is home to the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. With close proximity to the Western Ghat range, Goa is also blessed with rich flora and fauna making a biodiversity hot spot. Due to its presence in the tropical zone and closeness to the Arabian Sea lends a warm and humid climate to the state of Goa India. It's an ideal holiday and religious destination for travelers from across the world.