Goa, a tiny emerald land on the west coast of India, a magnificent place for tourism in india, a place of sun sand and sea, squeezed between the seas and the lush forested hills. Goa tourism offers glistening sands, swaying coconut palms, and ultra fresh seafood. With its natural scenic beauty, abundant greenery, attractive beaches and temples, churches & even mosques with a distinctive style of architecture, colorful and lively feasts, festivals & above all, hospitable people with a rich cultural milieu, has an ideal tourist profile.

Tourism in Goa is an opportunity to see the magnificent beauty of nature in a completely new way and to explore a new and highly interesting culture.

Variously known as “ Rome of the East “, “ Tourist Paradise “ and “ Pearl of the Orient “, the state of Goa is one of the premier locations for tourism and is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan. Tourism in Goa is famous for some special reasons - The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made tourism in Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. But then, Goa is much more than just beaches and sea. It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer. The vast green expanse of the Sahyadri mountain range ensures that Goa has an abundance of water. The sea and rivers abound in seafood – prawns, mackerels, sardines, crabs and lobsters are the most popular with the locals and the visitors. Tourism in Goa is an excellent opportunity which must be completely devoured.

Along with English which is widely spoken all over Goa , Konkani and Marathi are the state languages. The national language Hindi is also well understood in most areas around the state. Goan cuisine is a blend of different influences the Goans had to endure during the centuries. The staple food in Goa is fish and rice, both among the Hindus and the Catholics. Unlike the Christian food the Hindu Goan food is not strongly influenced by the Portuguese cuisine. The tourism is high in tourist season in Goa which begins in late September and carries on through early March.

The weather in these months is usually dry and pleasantly cool. Tourism in Goa in these months is well known and highly popularized all around the world. Weather : The average temperature varies between 25?C – 30?C (67.96F – 81.56F Approx). The average rainfall is approximately 325cms, the average daily hours of sunshine is nine to ten hours in summer and three to five hours during the monsoon. Then the weather gets fairly hot around May and by end of June, Goa receives the full blast of the Indian monsoon with sudden downpours and tropical thunderstorms during which tourism is a little lower scale. However it is also during the monsoon that Goa is probably at its most beautiful, with greenery sprouting all around – a perfect place for tourism to grow, expand and make one’s tour in Goa an experience of lifetime.

Goans as the people from Goa are known around the world, have a unique lifestyle which reflects the perfect blending of the cultural influences that they have experienced over the centuries. By nature, Goans are warm, friendly, easy going and large hearted. They live life in style and at a leisurely pace. They are passionate about dance, music and art which is in their blood and they love their food and feni. Goans attitude to life is best described by the word Susegad which means taking life at a relaxed pace and enjoy it to the full.

This unique philosophy of life originates from the Portuguese word Socegado which literally meant quiet. The people of Goa have taken that to heart, quite wholeheartedly while leading quiet and relaxed lives in their peaceful land, in spite of the heavy tourism Goa attracts every year. How to get there.

Goa ‘s international airport is 29 km from Panjim at Dabolim.

Goa has two main stations at Margao and Vasco da Gama. The 760 km long Konkan Railway project between Mangalore (Karnataka) and Mumbai has given a major boost to train travel to Goa

There are interstate bus services to Mumbai (16 hrs), Mangalore, Bangalore, Pune, Londa, Hubli, Hampi and Hospet.

History of Anjuna beach is quite young. The beach was 'discovered' sometime in 1950's and 60's by a group of travellers and then they began to meet here in dry season to party. One of the biggest beaches, the vastness of Anjuna can be realized by the fact that there is a north, a south and a middle to the beach. While most of the hotels, bars and restaurants are in north Anjuna, towards the middle Anjuna is Flea market and in the south is Little Anjuna Beach. The business on Anjuna, be it the stretching sprawl of restaurants or the flea market, is a swirling activity, yet it has that laid back holiday destination feeling to it. The magnet in Anjuna is such that anyone and everyone coming here gets immersed in the culture of Anjuna. Things to see and do

There is no end to fun, adventure and thrill on Anjuna. Once there leave your inhibitions and get into the party mood. Its difficult to say what's the main attraction of this beach, the beach parties, walking through the beach on moonlit night or the ever so famous Flea market.

The party never stops on Anjuna. Its the party hard spirit that makes Anjuna a rave venue for big parties and party animals, especially during the Christmas and new year period. Usually the nightlife of Anjuna centers at Shore bar which is in the middle of the beach. The sound system here is pounding and music really funky. The night comes alive with trance music from London. There is no dearth of party places. All you need to do is just swing into the party mood and voila! the fun begins.

Anjuna Beach A tradition decades old, a major tourist attraction and a bustling business centre, Flea market held every Wednesday dates back to 1970's when it began as a place where hippies who were either broke or were leaving sold their possessions. Banned for several years for allegedly promoting drug trafficking, Flea market was revived eight years back by Anjuna Panchayat. The popularity of the market among the locals and tourists can be judged by traffic jams here every Wednesday.

But once there, Flea market will offer you with a range of products so unique that it will be a memory of a lifetime. From a used paperback to a haircut, cameras to elephant rides, Tibetan, Kashmiri and Gujarati trinkets and handicrafts, to cassettes of "Goa Trance" there is no end to the variety here. Flea market is a heaven for hardcore shoppers and good bargainers. The market begins around noon and goes on till sunset. Once in Goa, you can't afford to miss this riot of colors.

Swimming is safe at southern end where a rocky terrain keeps the sea calm and undertow to a minimum. Long walks along the beach under the shining moon will soothe you beyond imagination and watching the sun going down is every tourists favorite pastime. Take a walk to the Baga retreat house to get to some sea cure shops. On calm days one can enjoy snorkeling at the southern end and spot some mullet, parrot fish and groupers.

There are quite a few structures to tickle your architectural bone. There's a Albuquerque Mansion which was built in 1920. It is flanked by octagonal towers and Mangalore tile roof. Another mansion is Mascarenhas Mansion which has rich and classic 'balcoes' (balconies). An L shaped seat along the porch is carved out of expensive wood. There are also some fine stained glass floral etchings. And to catch up with some scenic beauty of the Anjuna beach, mount Chapora fort. This fort was under Muslim rulers before Portuguese came to Goa.

Ten kilometers west of Mapusa, Baga beach is an extension of Calangute beach. In fact, it is difficult to mark where one ends and another begins. A rocky wooded headland marks Baga beach. It is less congested in comparison to Calangute beach. The scenery here is unspoiled. The land and sea meet here in a picture perfect manner. White waves rush towards the brown sand to sweep the feet marks. Unlike other beaches, Baga beach is free from any hustle bustle.

Well, there is not much of sightseeings options available on this small beach. Yet it is popular among tourists. Though the beach doesn't boasts of any big time adventures yet whatever little it does offer is quite sought after. Baga Retreat House

Enjoy the trek up the Baga hill to the Baga Retreat House. The house was established in 1953 and is dedicated to St.Francis Xavier. If you are in mood of some excursion then just follow the path to the other side of the hill and you will come to Anjuna's Flea market.

The Baga river flowing on one side of the beach gives a pleasant diversion especially to the children. However, water is ripping at the mouth of the river where it meets the sea. Enjoy the music as water crashes on the rocks. The Medicinal Springs

If you are one of those health conscious people than a trip to Medicinal Springs is a must for you. To reach there take the narrow road past the Bom Viagem Convent along the cashew covered foothills. And there you are in Springs at Mottant. This is an ideal spot for picnics and bathing as water is considered to medicinal here.

The Sea Cure Baga is a popular destination with the local Goans for the sea cure. Every year around mid-May, thousands of Goans camp on the shores of Baga beach. The cure is said to be a sure shot remedy for arthritis and joint pains. The elderly women sit on the fringe of the sea with their backs to the sea during the high tide and let the waves splash their backs. This circulates blood in the body. The cure has been practiced in Goa since hundreds of years.

Leisure With its uncrowded beaches Baga has become a place for foreign tourist to persue their own hobbies. While some are interested in water sports, fishing is also quite popular. Nightlife in Baga is one of the liveliest in the area. A hotel by the name of Tito's has the only dance floor and a pounding sound system. Baga also has one of the best range of restaurants. Take a candle lit dinner on the beach or an espresso on the terrace cafes. Or go for a full fledged Goan meal in one of the beach side shacks.

Water sports Feel the wind hit your face as you go parasailing or windsurfing. However, go for it only if you have enough expertise in it. Though the water sports options are limited at Baga but overall it makes for a good tourist spot.

Forty one kilometres away from Goan capital, Panaji and two kilometres away from the longest beach Colva is Benaulim beach. Legend has it that this is the place where an arrow shot by Lord Parshuram, sixth incarnation of Vishnu landed. The arrow shifted back the hills hence forming the Konkan. The place was hence named Banavli (ban means arrow) and later got corrupted to Benaulim by Portuguese. The place is also special for Christians as it's the birth place of the venerable Father Joseph Vaz. If you wish to be at some place close to nature and totally untouched, than Benaulim is the place for you. Though it gets fairly crowded in evenings and weekends.

Things To See And Do The best thing about Benaulim beach is that it is a rather undiscovered beach. Commercialization unlike other beaches hasn't set its foot here yet. The beach is close to Colva so in case you need to catch up with some nightlife, its just close by. You can also try your hand at fishing since its mainly a fishing beach. Or maybe incase you are one of those friendly kinds, just request some of the village folks and you might accompany them to the sea. Apart from sunbathing and getting yourself a nice tan, as you laze on the beach, go for swimming. Its actually more safe here than Colva. Benaulim Beach

Beach Shacks and Boat Rides Like Colva, here also, though few in number you can get some great sea food in beach shacks. Apart from the seafood, you can also catch up with some water activity. A main attraction of this beach is the dolphin spotting trips. The trips are reasonably priced and chances of spotting dolphins fairly high. Also Benaulim is a village of gifted craftsmen. Their works adore not just churches but villas also. Carved rosewood furniture is the speciality of Benaulim. Drop by the village for some serious shopping.

Situated atop the hill is the church of St John the Baptist. Situated beyond the village, this church is a classic example of Goan architecture. Built in 1581, the church has a mannerist frontage. The interiors are made out of unstained Italian marble. Feast of St John is celebrated here on the arrival of monsoon as a thanksgiving. Young men wear crown of leaves and tour the area for gifts. Benaulim also has a recently constructed church, Holy Trinity Church. It was built in 1992.

Water sports Apart from boat rides, there are also options of parasailing, jet skiing and wind surfing available. Windsurfing though comparatively cheap is a tough activity. Only the proficient should try their hands.

Calangute. Nine miles from the Goan Capital Panaji, the beach is spread four miles along the Arabian sea. On the north is hamlet of Baga and to the south is Candolim village. Take a break from the parties of Anjuna in the calm solitude here and you will be mesmerized forever.

It was hippies who first discovered Calangute in late 1960's and there on spread word about the beach. 1970's saw tourists from Europe coming in large numbers. The beach was even quite popular among the movie stars back then. Shashi Kapoor rented a house here and Raj Kapoor got inspiration for his blockbuster film 'Bobby' here. Over the decades the hippie culture has vanished but not the popularity of the beach. Round the year there are hoards of tourists coming to Calangute for that perfect escape from their hectic schedule.

The name Calangute according to locals is a distortion of the local vernacular word 'Koli-gutti', which means land of fishermen. Others say it has derived from Kalyangutti meaning the village of art, and still others say it came from the earlier name Konvallo -ghott because the village is full of coconut trees.

Things to see and do At Calangute, its heavens. Just let your hair down and experience the magic spell drown you in the calm serene solitudes. Its another world. While some laze around, others can get adventurous with water sports. And once here you will catch glimpses of the old seaside village vadoos.

At the beach You can do what most people do, let the Calangute embrace you. Tan yourself spreading on beach or go swimming. Calangute is a reasonably safe place to swim though one should keep at least three hundred meters away from the mouth of the river. Children can be seen here making castles out of sand. Watch the sun go down as you laze on the beach. Take a fifteen minute walk from the main beach front area and you will come in a hawker free zone.

Sights of rows of wooden boats and teams of village fishermen hauling nets in a high tide can be seen here. Together the sun, sand and sea set the mood for that perfect holiday. And while at beach you will not miss hundreds of stalls of sea food. Gorge on the prawns or the lobsters. Sea food is available in abundance. There are options for vegetarians also. The shops on the beach will remind you of a city's market place. There is a Cafe Coffee Day, Malini Ramani's boutique and an Oxford bookstore to name a few.

Nightlife of Calangute is in contrast to that of Anjuna. The bars close around ten pm, though few hippie joints still remain open. There is hardly any night life here, so if you are one of those party animals, Calangute is not the place for you.

Water sports This is for that not-so-laid-back crowd. Calangute is one of the few beaches where water sports are available. There are more than a dozen of water sport operators along the beach. You can go for para sailing, water surfing, water skiing or banana and bump rides depending upon which you find more thrilling. There are some boat operators offering dolphin and crocodile spotting trips, island trips and fishing expeditions.

Fifteen kilometers from Panjim, the Goan capital, is Candolim beach in north Goa. Beginning at Fort Aguada and merging with Calangute beach towards the end, it is one of the longest beaches in the state and is located in the Bardez taluka. The beach in itself is very calm and peaceful, at times tourists come here from Rajneesh Ashram in Pune to take a break. What adds to the scenic beauty of the sand and sea are the scrub covered dunes at the back of the beach quite popular with tourists.

The main road that is the Candolim Calangute road is packed with shops and restaurants, but the beach front is rather free of any commercial activity apart from some water activities. Though the beach is close to bustling Calangute beach, life is rather laid back at Candolim. Even the village isn't very clustered, its quite spread out so there isn't any centre to it as such. The area around the beach can be termed as resort free as there aren't any resorts there. However, the beach has quite a number of inns at reasonable prices with good facilities.

The beach has emerged as tourist beach lately but the place Candolim a history to it. It is the birthplace of Fr. Abbe Faria, father of science of hypnotism. Candolim has the honour of being the place where first revolt against Portuguese broke out.

In spite of the rather uncrowded beach front, Candolim offers you a variety of water activities that you won't miss swimming at all. Actually, Candolim is not very safe for swimming since River Princess ship was grounded here in 2000. There can be undertows at any phase of the tide.

At the beach The village of Candolim is a fishing village. If you are one of those who love to sit in the boat with your harpoon, then Candolim might offer you exactly what you want. You can either be humble and request villagers while they go fishing or embark on your own. Since a lot many tourists come from Pune's Rajneesh ashram, yoga and meditation is also a sprouting activity on the beach. Nightlife at Candolim is rather at peace, but in case you need to catch up with some, then head the adjoining Calangute beach. Or ust enjoy some sea food on Candolim Calangute main road.

Fort Aguada The Candolim Chogm road will take you to Fort Aguada. Built in 1612, this Portuguese fort is a must visit. It was then built to protect Goa from Dutch invaders. It was at that time surrounded by a moat for protection purpose but all that remains today of that moat is a ditch over which Chogm road passes. Aguada fort houses a citadel, a lighthouse, a huge clock and a bell. Situated atop Sinquerim plateau, a climb to this fort will also get you a spectacular view of different shades of life in Goa. You see river Mandovi meeting the sea, the city of Panjim on the southern bank, Cabo Raj Bhavan on the hill top and huge cargo ships heading their way to the Mormugao port.

On the shore of Aguada bay lies Chapel of St Lawrence. St. Lawrence is the patron saint of sailors of Goa. The chapel has its feast day on August 10. A picturesque snap shot can be taken from there of a beautiful mansion here by the name of Placio Aguada against the sea.

Candolim Church This church, dedicated to Our Lady of Hope, has a look of a frosted icing cake. Built in 1560, it got its current beauty recently by the efforts of villagers. The church has some real good stained glass work inside and the rich paddies that stretch outside up to the Periline lend a rustic beauty to the scene.

Water activities Water activity is something which can be termed as the prime attraction of Candolim. Its a perfect zone for you if its adventure that you seek in your vacation. The range of water activities here is so wide, you name it and they have it. Parasailing, Jet-skiing, water skiing, knee and wake boarding, wind surfing, speed boat rides, and much more. There are operators on Candolim who will provide with you with equipment as well as guides.

Apart from the adventure there is water activity if you are the laid back kind. Many boat operators in Goa take you to dolphin and crocodile spotting trips, island trips and fishing expeditions. There is no end to fun with water activity on Candolim. Its for you to gear up and hit the waves.

Colva is forty kilometres from Panaji, the Goan capital and two kilometres from Benaulim. Adjacent to Colva is its secret suburb, Sernbatim beach. Longest among all beaches in Goa, Colva stretches twenty kilometres along the Arabian sea, about six kilometres west of Margao. Lined with coconut palms throughout, Colva has Bogmalo in north and Cabo de Rama in south. In the pre colonial era, Colva had the honour of being the retreat zone of Margao's high society. While speaking of history of Colva, the name of Our lady of Mercy Church invariably comes up. More about the church in the later paragraphs.

While at Colva one can also see the beautiful houses and villas that dot the village. Another interesting thing about Colva is its popularity among the locals. Though the beach is fairly famous with foreign and Indian tourists, it is the locals who can be seen here in large numbers.

Things to see and do Colva is god's perfect gift for those who seek solitude in their holidays. Colva offers you with something no other beach offers. Miles and miles of virgin territory comprising of white soft sands, shining sun and the music of waves playing by. Though commercialization is gradually taking roots in Colva, yet with its long stretch it still seems and remains less crowded. While at the beach Laze, laze and laze. There is no end to that. Grab your favourite books, tie your swinging net between two coconut trees in a peaceful place and treat yourself through the day.

When in season (November to May) seafood restaurants sprout in large numbers on the main beach area. If you have deep pockets, than don't give any second thoughts, just enter and you will have the most romantic evening. With tablecloth, candles, soothing music and large portions to gorge on, you will not complain. And for budget tourists there are plenty of offers in the shacks. You will get excellent pasta and steak, varieties of Goan prawn curry. Swimming in Colva is another passtime.

Colva is fairly safe place to make a splash in water but don't venture in deepwaters unless you are a strong swimmer. Indulge in some trinket shopping or start collecting seashells and make your own collection. Though not in line with established rave party venues like Anjuna, Colva doesn't actually disappoints its visitors. There are few places where you can catch up with the party scene.

Water sports Water sports on Colva beach comprises mainly of jet skiing and speed boat rides. For speed lovers jet skiing is the sport. The machine is very simple to handle but mostly an instructor accompanies rider. Next to jet skiing in terms of speed is the speedboat ride. It is a group activity comprising three to six people. So go ahead and explore the Goan coastline.

With romance is in the air, the beach is bustling with activity throughout the year. Just seven kilometers from the Goan capital, Panjim is Dona Paula, the most happening beach of the state. Dona Paula is nestled on the southern side of the rocky headland dividing Zuari and Mandovi estuaries.

The greenery to the beach is lent by palm trees and casuarina groves and it presents an excellent view to the Mormugao harbour. The beach has the obvious advantage of being in proximity with the capital city. During festivals like Janmashtami and the feast of St. Lawrence, Dona Paula is immersed in the colours of festivity.

What lends the beach romantic angle is the legend behind the name of Dona Paula. The legend has it that Dona Paula was the daughter of the Viceroy in the colonial era and was in love with Gasper Dias, son of a fisherman. As their love could never be realized, they jumped together from the cliff to death. Furthermore it says that she is seen emerging from the sea wearing only a pearl necklace on moonlit nights. Haunted by the romantic tale of Dona Paula, the beach hold dual attraction for the Indian tourists. Its the same beach where film Ek Duje ke liye was shot.

Things to See and Do Apart from the sun, sand and sea, water sports is a major activity here at Dona Paula. Every day hundreds of tourists flock Dona Paula for adventure. The beach also offers tourists some cheap sea side stuff from local vendors. However, the main attraction remains the water sports. Swimming is safe at Dona Paula but distance of minimum three hundred metres should be maintained from the rivers.

Water Sports The Dona Paula sports club offer extensive choices in water sports. Waterscooter, cycle, and motor boat rides are most common. Also one can enjoy windsurfing, parasailing, sports fishing, snorkelling, harpoon fishing, kaykaying and yatching. If you happen to be here in November then the colours of water sports festival will not miss your eyes. Not just witness but you can also participate in this event to catch up with some excitement. The excitement is maximum during the water scooter, cycle races and surfing events. National Oceanography Institute

This institute was set up in 1960, and delves into Marine Biology, Coastal and Marime Oceanography. The major attraction of the institute is the Marine Biology museum and Taxanomy Reference Center.

While there you can also visit the Cobo Raj Niwas (the governor's house) where the tomb of Dona Paula de Menezes in the Cabo Chapel is situated. The Bhavan also offers a picturesque view of the coastline and Aguada fort.

Around ten kilometeres from Dona Paula is one of the oldest churches in Goa, the Reis Nagos Church. Nine kilometres from Dona Paula is Salim Ali bird sanctuary. Spread over two kilometres of mangrove forest, the sanctuary houses several local and migratory birds.

Also within close proximity are two other beaches. Miramir beach lies four km north of Dona Paula, and the Vainguinim Beach, is situated one km to the West.

More than seventy kilometres from the Goan capital, Panjim is Palolem, situated in Goa's southern most taluka of Canacona or Chaudi. If you enter Goa from Karnataka, this is probably the first beach you will come across. Facing a blue bay between two headlands is Palolem. A crescent shaped bay, white sand peacefully merging into the sea, swaying coconut palms - Palolem is picture perfect. It has little wooded islands to the north. The village is located just behind the beach.

At Palolem, life seems to be just like living on the edge of the sea. Since Palolem is a tourist beach there are quite a few shacks selling sea food but the beach doesn't looks crowded. There are also some cafes and souvenir shops in the village. In spite of the commercialization, Palolem retains its charm of a village.

Things to see and do Palolem beach has gained popularity in the last couple of years only. In 1989, it had its first beach resort. Since then, there has been no stopping and today on the beachfront you will find rows of shacks. Palolem has few bars which open till late, so you won't miss the nightlife that much actually.

At the beach While at beach just savour the silence. Palolem does not just offers you a seclusion, it also gives you that much needed silence. Swimming is very safe at Palolem, but one should keep away from the stream during a high tide. There are shops selling odd sized, informal and bright clothes.

Pandava's drum The area is full of legends of Pandavas. On the southern end along the stream there is a large cup shaped rock. This is known as Pandava's drum. People throw stones at it, if they hit a particular spot, a resonating sound comes.

Figueiredo House A little further along the path you will come across Figueiredo House. The house was built in early twentieth century by Figueiredo family. It was later damaged by vandals and is now a hotel. You can check it for architecture.

The Island trip This can be a little exploration trip for you. At the northern end of the beach there is a stream and across the stream lies a small island. Either swim across in low tide or take a ferry. There is a rocky terrain which is fun exploring. At the island, apart from the usual frolicking around, there is option of snorkelling. You can spot some sea urchins, sea missiles, sea cucumbers and some groupers. And if you care for some scenic beauty then wait till sunset, the view from island is beyond expression.

Dolphin Spotting trips There are lots of dolphins in sea across Palolem beach. Dolphin spotting trips are available at reasonable prices. While on this trip, stop by Butterfly beach where you will feel as if you have the entire beach to yourself.

Excursion While at Palolem, make a small excursion to the nearby Patnem-Colomb beach which is just fifteen minutes walk away. Colomb has just a little cove but the vaddo of Patnem has a kilometre long beach. Secluded and untouched.

When it comes to scenic beauty, Vagator beach is undeniably one of the best beaches in the world. Twenty four kilometers from capital city, Panaji, this beach is the north most beach of Bardej Taluka. Perfect for a romantic holiday destination, a red laterite cliff looks down to soft white sand dotted with black lava rocks. A lush green landscape full of swaying palm trees and water turning aquamarine to emerald treats eyes. There is no beginning and no end to the beauty of Vagator beach. The icing on the cake is the five hundred year old Portuguese fort.

The beach is split into two by seaside headland, to the north is North Vagator Beach and towards the south is Ozrant beach or the mini Vagator beach. And in the center is a tiny beach cut off from Ozrant down the cliff. This is Middle Vagator beach also called the Tel Aviv Beach. All three beaches are popular with tourist particularly British and Israeli tourists.

Inseparable from Vagator is the Chapora village inhibited by a predominantly fishing community. The village gives the beach an old world charm.

Things to see and do What holds and beholds the charm of Vagator is difficult to say. A perfect place to relax and rejuvenate in spite of the hustle bustle of the tourists. Vagator is a relaxed tourist destination and fairly undeveloped or one rather say untouched. Its a perfect getaway if you plan to spend your holidays in calm surroundings reuniting with yourself. A face of Lord Shiva has been carved on a sea side boulder by some unknown sculptor, don't miss to take a snapshot. Swimming is fairly safe in North Vagator Beach.

Vagator Springs Fresh water springs are interesting feature of Vagator. There are two fresh water springs in Vagator, one is at North Vagator beach past the rocks where the beach seems to end at the foot of the hill. The other one is in Ozrant and a bit difficult to locate. It's called by the name of zor which means spring in Konkani. Take a shower in the clean water of springs to wash off the salt after a swim in the sea.

Shopping and eating Though Vagator doesn't boasts of any big shopping complex but one thing you will get here in abundance is fish in the local market. One can also buy some candelabras of exquisite china, woven baskets and earthen pots. As for food, a sweet Goan delicacy available here is Bebinca, made from tender coconuts.