Goa Carnival 2017

 Goa Carnival 2017

Goa Carnival is the most famous festival in the state and has been celebrated since the 18th century as a precursor to the abstinence of Lent. The 'Carnaval’ is exclusive and unique to Goa and was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled over Goa for over five hundred years. Huge colorful parades take over the state's cities with bands, floats, and dances, while the evenings mean serious partying wherever you are. Try not to miss the final day's festivities, which conclude with the famous red-and-black dance held by the Clube Nacional in Panjim. The float parades are organized in association with the State Tourism Department. The float parade in Panaji will be led by a special float hosting King Momo, a specially decorated float, which will declare the decree of eating, drink and merry. Although the three-day festival is primarily celebrated by Christians, it has also absorbed Hindu tradition revelry, western dance forms, and turned into a pageantry of sorts. Though it started as a celebration enjoyed only by the local population, it has today crossed the state frontiers and attracts thousands of people from all over the country.

The Carnival is uniquely Goan and is not celebrated anywhere else in India. It is a typical Latin, song, music and dance and precedes the "Lent". The highlight of the exotic frenzy of merriment is the appointment and arrival of “KING MOMO” and his retinue to the capital city Panaji on "Fat Saturday", the eve of Carnival.

Read more: http://www.govisitgoa.com/events-in-goa/goa-carnival.html

Wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa

Known for its wide beaches, amazing nightlife and astonishing landscapes, Goa is also known for its exotic wildlife reserves. Yes, the land is bestowed with natural habitat for an exciting range of wildlife. Away from the usual hustle bustle of daily life, Goa wildlife sanctuaries offer refuge to a variety of wild animals and birds. Along with that, it would be great if you visit the place post monsoon as the you would get to witness the beautiful side of Goa carpeted with flower bed and enchanting waterfalls. 

Rich with wildlife, the place offers great opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. Some of the well known wildlife sanctuaries in Goa are-

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary - Spread in 1.8 sqkms, Dr. Salim Ali bird sanctuary is the only bird sanctuary in Goa. Visitors would get to witness a wide variety of beautiful birds such as black Drongo and mudskipper.

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Spread over 240 sqkms, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest wildlife sanctuary located in the Goan town of Mellon. The sanctuary is home to several wildlife species including Indian Bison, Leopards, Deer and Elephants.



Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Brushed by Talpona and Galjibaga river, cotigao wildlife sanctuary offers a wide range of wildlife species of birds, animals and reptiles. Along with that, it is also very popular for multi-Storeyed forests, tall trees and rare plants.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Famous for its mini zoo, sprawling deer park, and botanical & rose gardens, Bondla wildlife sanctuary is located in north Goa which is 52 kms from Panaji. The elephant rides offered here are quite interesting for the visitors.

So, the next time when you plan trips to go visit Goa don’t forget to explore the extreme wildlife reserve at the place.

Goa Tourism - Enjoy the Beauty of Goa

Goa is one of the most enchanting tourist destinations to visit in India. Fascinating beaches, coconut trees and beautiful churches are some of the captivating facets of Goa. Though it is a small place, but it is attracting the largest number of tourists every year from all the different corners of the world. 

The place is known for its vibrant culture and splendid natural beauty. One needs to visit the place to explore the true essence of this exotic location. Goa Tourism allows to explore these various beautiful beaches or lie down in the sand and have the best way to soak the sun on your body. Visitors can also enjoy water sports on these beaches such as scuba diving, water skiing, water scootering, angling and fishing.

However, Goa is not just about its serene beaches and sea, tourists can slip inside the town and will get to explore a number of temples, churches, forts, waterfalls and the most famous flea markets. There are some rarely designed Portuguese churches that are appreciated for amazing architecture. Some of the must visit churches in Goa named as The churches to visit for sure are St Anne Church, St Augustine Church, Chapel of St Catherine, Church of Holy Spirit, Church of Lady of Rosary, Se Cathedral, Church of St Francis of Assisi and Basilica of Bom Jesus. 

Along with that there various breathtaking forts and stunning tourist places in Goa that must be visited while touring Goa. These include Aguada Fort, Mormuhao Fort, Teracol Fort, Cabo Fort, and Cabo Raj Niwas. If you are a nature lover or an adventure freak the Goa definitely makes a perfect gateway for you!

For more info: http://govisitgoa.com