About Goa Map
This Goa map highlights the administrative divisions of Goa state of India, showing the two districts of North Goa and South Goa separated by the district boundary. The map of Goa also pinpoints the state capital Panaji as well as Margao, the district headquarters of South Goa. The Goa district map also indicates the main rivers, the coast as well as the Arabian Sea to the west of Goa. The neighboring states of Maharashtra to the north, and Karnataka to the east and south are also marked. An inset map highlights Goa within the Indian mainland. Symbols and a compass rose are used to indicate the state and district boundaries as well as to guide the user to orient the Goa map.
Districts of Goa
| S.N. | District Name | Headquarter Name |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | North Goa | Panaji |
| 2 | South Goa | Madgaon |
About Goa
Goa is a small Indian state in the western coast of India, bordering the Arabian Sea. With an area of 3,702 square kilometers, Goa is the smallest Indian state. It is also one of the most visited Indian states, famous for its beaches, for its historical and cultural Portuguese heritage, for its vibrant culture, for its landscapes, for its people, for the friendly atmosphere that pervades everywhere in Goa is a part of the Indian union since 1961 when it was liberated from the Portuguese rule. Goa became India’s 25th state on 30 May 1987. Today, India’s smallest state is famous all over the world for tourism, heritage sites, biodiversity, cuisine and huge hospitality industry.
Location and Geography
Goa is a State in South Western India, with Latitude extending from 15°13’ to 15°48’ North and Longitude extending from 73°40’ to 74°20’ East. It is bounded by Maharashtra in the North, Karnataka in the East and South and the Arabian Sea in the West. The State extends into a narrow strip in land, measuring about 105 Kms (65 miles) from North to South and with a long coastline of about 101 Kms (63 miles) along the Arabian Sea.
Goa is generally a flat country with a varying topography of coastal plains, river valleys, plateaus and the foothills of Western Ghats forest. The Western Ghats a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s premier biodiversity hotspots. The state is bounded by several important rivers including the Mandovi, Zuari, Terekhol, Chapora, Sal and Talpona, which support agriculture, transport, fisheries and tourism, and create estuaries and mangrove ecosystems along its coast.
Administrative Divisions
Goa is divided into two districts: North Goa and South Goa. North Goa has the major tourist hotspots like Panaji, Calangute, Baga, Candolim, Anjuna and Vagator. On the other hand, South Goa has a plethora of beaches like Colva, Palolem, Benaulim, Agonda and Varca. The state capital, Panaji (also known as Panjim) is situated on the banks of the Mandovi River. Margao (also known as Madgaon) is the largest commercial town and a transportation hub in South Goa.
History of Goa
Goa has a very rich historical background with various rulers such as Mauryas, Satavahanas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kadambas, Bahmani Sultanate and the Bijapur Sultanate ruling over the region before the Portuguese set foot in Goa.
In 1510, the Portuguese, under the leadership of Afonso de Albuquerque, captured Goa. For more than 450 years, Goa was under Portuguese colonial rule. The history of Goa during this period is of a major center for maritime trade, of Christianity, of architecture, of education and of cultural exchange between Europe and Asia.
Goa was liberated from the Portuguese on December 19, 1961 by Indian forces in operation Vijay. It was a part of the Union Territory of Daman and Diu till May 30, 1987 when it was elevated to a full fledged state. With many old churches, forts, temples and neighborhoods still intact Goa is a perfect destination for history lovers from across the globe.
Climate
Goa is a tropical monsoon state. During summer, which lasts from March end to end of May, Goa experiences very warm weather. In between 30°C and 35°C (86°F and 95°F) by day and in between 24°C and 27°C (75°F and 81°F) by night. The Southwest monsoon starts in the state by end of June and lasts till end of September. It brings lot of rainfall to the state and to the forests, rivers and farms in the state. In between end of November and end of February Goa experiences very pleasant weather. It is the peak tourist season time. Temperatures are between 20°C and 30°C (68°F and 86°F).
Population and Demographics
Goa is the least populous state in India with a population of about 1.46 million people as of the 2011 Census of India. The population has continued to grow steadily after. The state has the highest literacy rate in the country at over 88%. The population is composed of Hindus, Christians, Muslims, Jains, Sikhs and people of other communities living in the state for centuries and contributing to the state’s unique traditions, festivals and way of life.
The diverse population of Goa comprises of Hindus, Christians, Muslims, Jains, Sikhs and many other communities. The peaceful coexistence of all these communities for centuries has been instrumental in shaping the various traditions, festivals, cuisine, architecture and culture of Goa.
Languages
Konkani is the official language of Goa and is an indicator of Goan culture. Marathi is spoken by many Goans, while English is used for education, tourism, business and government. There are also many people who know to speak Hindi and Portuguese, especially those involved in the tourism industry or who come from old families.
Economy
Goa boasts one of the strongest state economies in India, in terms of per capita income. Tourism being the biggest draw for the state, the ever-increasing number of visitors, both from within and outside the country, fuels the growth of the hospitality industry comprising of thousands of hotels, resorts, restaurants, travel agents, tour operators and service providers from all corners of the state.
Historically, Mining of Iron Ore and Manganese has been a major contributor to Goa’s economy. However, due to environmental issues and policy changes, the sector has seen considerable fluctuation in growth. Agriculture in rural parts of Goa continues to be a major source of livelihood for the local population with crops such as rice, coconut, cashew, arecanut, sugarcane, mangoes, bananas and spices such as white pepper, black pepper, cardamom and others being grown and traded. Fisheries too, support a large section of the coastal population, providing them with means of livelihood and income. Information technology, Pharmaceuticals, Shipbuilding, Education, Manufacturing and Financial Services sectors are growing rapidly in the state of Goa.
Tourism
Tourism is indeed the main activity that makes Goa a globally recognized destination, and it offers a diverse range of sights to see and activities to indulge in. A paradise for all kinds of travelers, Goa has beaches for sun-bathing and water sports, historical landmarks and fortifications, places for adventure activities, natural settings and sites for wildlife and nature photography and much more for culture lovers. The northern part of Goa is very lively and full of entertainment, with numerous bars, restaurants, clubs, and party zones, and plenty of beaches with flea markets and water activities. South Goa, on the other hand, is very serene and is home to some of the highest end resorts in the country, as well as some amazing natural sites.
The state has several beaches to its credit that include Baga, Calangute, Candolim, Anjuna, Vagator in North Goa and Colva, Palolem, Agonda, Varca, Morjim in South Goa. Historical landmarks like Basilica of Bom Jesus, Sé Cathedral, Fort Aguada, Reis Magos Fort, Chapora Fort and Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception speak volumes of Goa’s rich heritage.
Nature lovers can enjoy in the many parks and wildlife sanctuaries, including the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, the Mollem National Park, the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary and the breathtaking Dudhsagar Falls. There are also many locations where one can go bird watching.
Culture and Heritage
Goa, a state in western India, has a culture that is a wonderful mix of Indian and Portuguese. For centuries the local culture has developed and grown. This is reflected in the local music and dance, festivals, architecture, food and worship. Many of Goa’s festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm by the local population. These include the Goa Carnival, Shigmo, Ganesh Chaturthi, Christmas, Easter, Diwali and São João.
The architecture of Goa displays the vibrant colored Portuguese houses with tiled roofs and ornate balconies down long narrow streets. Historic and beautiful churches and impressive colonial buildings are but a few of the sights that are drawing tourists from all parts of the globe to this region.
Cuisine
Goan cuisine is renowned for its distinctive flavors, most of them derived from the coastal region of Goaf. A large portion of Goan cuisine is based on the fresh sea food available, along with other ingredients such as coconut, kokum, tamarind, vinegar, and a host of aromatic and non-aromatic spices. The famous Goan fish curry, Prawn Balchão, Chicken Xacuti, Pork Vindaloo, Sorpotel, Bebinca and Sannas are just a few of the examples of the delectable cuisine the state has to offer. Fresh vegetables, lentils, coconut and a variety of spices are used to create mouth-watering dishes to cater to the vast vegetarian population in the country.
Transportation
Goa is easily accessible by Air, Rail, Road and Sea. Two Airports – one in North Goa, Manohar International Airport (Mopa) and the other in South Goa, Goa International Airport (Dabolim) – connect India and abroad. Three major Railway Stations in South Goa – Madgaon, Thivim and Vasco da Gama – are connected to major cities of India through Konkan Railway. National Highways and State Highways facilitate easy travel by road. River crossings in the State are connected by Ferries.
Wildlife and Natural Environment
Goa is bestowed with rich biodiversity of Western Ghats and coastal ecosystems. This biodiversity encompasses dense forests, wetlands, mangroves, estuaries, rivers and protected wildlife sanctuaries housing varieties of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and butterflies. Indian gaurs, leopards, deer, monkeys, crocodiles and birds of various species reside in protected areas of Goa and draw tourists interested in ecotourism and wildlife.
Education and Healthcare
Goa stands tall as far as education and health services are concerned as compared to rest of India. It is host to the prestigious Goa University along with numerous other Engineering colleges, Medical colleges, Hospitality Institutes and Research Institutions. Goa boasts of a wide array of healthcare services being provided by both public as well as private sectors, besides catering to literacy and professional growth and higher education.
Why Visit Goa?
Goa is a unique tourist destination where guests can indulge in Natural Beauty, Historical Landmarks, Cultural Diversity, Modern Day Hospitality & Year Round Recreation Activities. Be it relaxing on the World’s Famous Beaches, Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Site Churches, Living & Experiencing the Vibrant Festivals, Savoring on local Coastual Delicacies, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Adventure in Water Activities or simply experiencing the blend of the Indian and Portuguese heritage through its Forts, Museums & Churches, Goa has something to offer for the tourists of all age groups and interests. Whether you are an Adventure Seeker, looking to unwind on a lazy vacation, History Enthusiast or looking for a Family Holiday, we have some unforgettable experiences for our valued guests.