Variously known as "Pearl of the Orient" and a "Tourist Paradise", the state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan.The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. 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.Much of the real Goa is in its interiors, both inside its buildings and in the hinterland away from the coastal area.

The Se cathedral, which took more than 62 years to complete, is an imposing building, commissioned in 1631. The church is dedicated to St Catherine of Alexandria since the Portuguese sailor Alfonso de Albuquerque believed that he could defeat the Muslim armies in 1510 on the feast day of the saint since the Portuguese army had the Saint’s blessings. The church was built after demolishing a mosque, which stood on the same grounds. The half-Doric and half-Tuscan style exteriors present a mesmerizing view, which encapsulates the interiors of Mosiac-Cornithian architecture. The north tower collapsed in 1776 after being struck by lightning and had not been rebuilt however, the south tower still holds the 'golden bell'.

The Calangute Beach, located around 17 km from Bardez, is famous for being the first beach to inculcate the hippie culture in the 60's and 70's. The hippies were edged out slowly as the mainstream tourists started to flock Goa in search of peace and enjoyments of a tourist place. Though the beach is very popular and crowded, the long stretch available to tourists ensures that everybody gets a place of his own in the crowd. Apart from the regular beach activities, Calangute is also famous for its rave parties which go on for hours, and days sometimes, while the party gang hops from one party to the next. Ideal time to visit this beach is from November to February.

The grand fort of Aguada was constructed in 1612 in order to prevent the entry of ships into the river Mandovi thus protecting old Goa from enemy attacks. Located at a distance of around 22 km from Bardez, Fort Aguada boasts of the first ever light house in Asia. Equipped with ammunition rooms and barracks, Fort Aguada was the first line of defence as far the Portuguese control over the region of Goa was concerned. Presently serving as the Central Jail, Fort Aguada has witnessed many historical battles and moments some of which have had a direct impact on the fort itself. The tower bell which survived centuries of weather and movements before being installed into the Church of Lady of Immaculate Conception, tells tales of adventures of Fort Aguada.

It is one of the most important attractions of Goa. The Basilica was constructed in 1605 and is world famous for housing the tomb and mortal remains of St Francis Xavier who is considered by Catholics as one of the patron saints of Goa. The body of the saint is still in very good condition even after more than 400 years, surprising for many scientists. It is taken out and kept for public display once in every decade. 2004 was the year when the body was last removed and displayed. The basilica is constructed in Portuguese style and the architecture is mesmerizing.

The beach is located around 16 km from Bardez and its white sand and the red laterite rocks are simply amazing to see. Tourists can visit this beach during Christmas and New Year time, which are celebrated in grandeur at the beach. Besides, the beach also offers activities such as parasailing, yachting and windsurfing for visitors to enjoy.

Dona Paula beach is located just about 7-km from Panaji. This place is called the Lovers Paradise in Goa, named after Dona Paula de Menezes. A myth has been attached to this place and according one legend the Viceroy's daughter after facing objections from her family about her love affair with a poor fisherman jumped of the cliff. The place where two of Goa's famous rivers meet the Arabian Sea is the bay of Dona Paula with a very good view of the Marmagao Harbour. 7-km from Panjim, situated on the south side of the, hammer-shaped headland that divides the Zuari and Mandovi, is a Fishing Village. This is a spot to sunbathe and relax. Jet Skiing is a very common sport at this beach. Tranquil and blue, Dona Paula unravels the ultimate in aquatic sport and fun. Dona Paula is also famous for the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, where you can spot both migratory and local birds.