The southern district of Goa, also called as south Goa, is spread in 1966 sq km of area. It shares borders with Karnataka. South Goa has some good places to visit, though not as good as North Goa. The beaches here are very beautiful and pristine. But facilities on South Goan beaches can not be matched with those on North Goan beaches. But the sheer beauty of these beaches are enough a reason to attract visitors. The charm of Margao is contained in its cultural heritage which is a smooth blend of Portuguese and Hindu cultures.
HOW TO REACH
By Air :-
Dambolin Airport in Goa is the only airport in Goa. It is situated in Vasco-da-Gama, 29 Km from Panajim. Buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws are available from Vasco as well as Panajim to visit South Goa.
By Rail :-
Vasco-da-Gama rail station is connected by train with the major cities of India. One can easily get taxis and buses for sightseeing in South Goa.
By Road :-
Panaji, the capital of Goa, is connected by road to Bangalore-598 Km, Bombay-594 Km, Hubli-184 Km, Kolhapur-246 Km, Mangalore-371 Km, Mysore-696 Km and Pune-458 Km. Margao is a major town in Goa and is very easily accessible from the cities of Goa.
WHAT TO SEE
South Goa Beaches:-
The Beaches of South Goa are inverse to the North Goa beaches. The beaches are known for the calm environ and the solitude they provide to the visitor. These beaches are perfect for those looking for a break from the rush of city crowd.
Colva Beach:-
Colva beach is the pride of Salcete and the only rival to Calangute by its scenic spelndour. Here, sand, sea and sky blend in enchanting natural harmony unspoilt by men.
Benaulim:-
The beach is 2 Km from Colva beach. The Benaulim village is mentioned in the Puranas as Bannali and is said to be renamed by Portuguese.
Arvalem Waterfalls:-
The majestic waterfall of Arvalem has an exuberant silvery showers. The beautiful fall, which falls from around 70ft, has a sizeable lake at the bottom. The fall and its surroundings forms a picturesque picnic spot.
Palolem Beach:-
The picture perfect white sand beach is situated 2 km west of Chaudi. It has a crescent shaped bay lined with swaying coconut palms hemmed by a pair of rocky crags.
Arvalem Caves:-
The celebrated caves of Arvalem are of archaeological interest. A mythical background is attached to these caves. Some are of the opinion that these caves have been carved by the travelling Buddhist monks. While some believe that the caves are a construction of the pre-historic era.
Madgaon:-
Madgaon is the oldest and the second largest city in Goa. Located on the banks of the Sal River, the city gets its name from the Sanskrit word ‘Mathagram’ which stands for a place that has a math. The city was home to numerous mathas of the Vaishnava sect. The name changed to Margao when the Portuguese colonized the region.
SHOPPING:-
The excellent and unique local handicrafts of Goa are the most popular souvenir items and include brassware, terracotta, shell work, crochet, carved furniture, bamboo work, etc. These are readily available in the Government Emporia and also at shops and stalls near the popular tourist spots. Another item which every traveler would love to take home is a packet of salted, plain or masala cashew nuts, available at every market shops.
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