OT Staff
South Goa is a serene coastal region famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Palolem and Colva. It offers a delightful mixture of Portuguese colonial heritage, evident in its churches and forts, as well as verdant landscapes and wildlife sanctuaries. South Goa is an ideal destination for those who seek a leisurely and culturally rich experience.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. It houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Significant attractions include magnificent architecture, the preserved body of St. Francis Xavier, intricate altars, and beautiful paintings.
The Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, is a 16th-century Portuguese-Gothic style architecture. Its major attractions include the Golden Bell, huge church bells, the Cross of Miracles, and historic paintings. Just beside the cathedral stands the Church of Our Lady of the Mount.
Located on a hill overlooking the Chapora River and the Arabian Sea, this fort has historical significance and offers breathtaking views. Some major attractions include scenic views of Vagator Beach, old fort ruins, and a tranquil atmosphere. It is also the place featured in the iconic Goa-trip scene in the film 'Dil Chahta Hai.'
Dudhsagar Waterfalls are formed by the Mandovi River cascading down a near-vertical cliff face into a deep green pool. Located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, they are a major attraction due to the spectacular four-tiered waterfall, lush greenery, and adventurous trekking routes.
Cabo de Rama Fort, also known as Kalhad Fort, was built in 1679 by Shivaji. It is one of the oldest forts in Goa, named after Lord Rama. The fort has walls, moats, ramparts, turrets, a chapel, and cannons. It offers beautiful views of the sea and surroundings and is a great place to learn about Hindu mythology and Portuguese rule.
The Mario Miranda Museum, also known as the Mario Gallery, is a gallery, store, and museum in Porvorim that showcases the work of the late Indian cartoonist and painter Mario Miranda. Miranda was based in Loutolim and was known for drawing whatever caught his eye and providing captions to his drawings.
Palácio do Deão is a 213-year-old restored Indo-Portuguese mansion in Quepem. It blends Hindu and Portuguese elements and offers guided tours, Goan-Portuguese cuisine, and a scenic location near the Kushavati River.
Braganza House is a 17th-century mansion in Chandor Village. It is home to the Braganza Pereira family, whose name changed after a daughter married a Pereira man in the fourth generation. The house is open Monday through Saturday, being one of the few historic mansions open for public viewing.
The Kadamba Shri Mahadeva Temple in Tambdisurla is a 13th-century Shaivite temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's the oldest temple in Goa and the only monument to Kadamba-Yadava architecture made of basalt stone. It's a protected national monument by the ASI.
The Three Kings Chapel is a small church in Cansaulim. It was built in 1599 by Fr. Gonzalo Carvalho S.J. and named after the three wise men. The chapel is known to be one of the most haunted places in Goa. According to a popular tale, three Portuguese kings once fought to become the ultimate ruler.