Goa state Profile

Situated along the Konkan coast, Goa is the smallest state in India in terms of its area. Goa has only two districts North Goa and South Goa.

Boundaries of Goa are defined in the north by the Terekhol River which separates it from Maharashtra, and in the east and south by Karnataka and in the west by the Arabian Sea.

Goa’s distinct culture is evident from the dress, language, religion and cuisine. There is also a fusion of western and Indian folk culture in their music, dance and in the celebrations of festivals. This small territory became a part of India only in 1961 but the 400-odd years of Portuguese rule are still apparent from the lifestyle of the people. Goa was a Portuguese colony till 1961. Panaji is the capital of Goa and is the third largest city after Vasco and Margoa.

Goa is one of India’s most popular holiday destinations, with its idyllic beaches, lush paddy fields, coconut plantations and villages dotted with pretty white washed churches and grand mansions. Its other attractions include the Hindu temples around Ponda and magnificent cathedral of old Goa.