Tourism in Goa

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Baga beach in Goa

Tourism is Goa's primary industry: it handles 12%^[1] of all foreign tourist arrivals in India.

Tourism is generally focused on the coastal areas of Goa, with decreased tourist activity inland. In 2004 there were more than 2 million tourists reported to have visited Goa, 400,000 of which were from abroad.

Goa has two main tourist seasons: winter and summer. In the winter time, tourists from abroad (mainly Europe) come to Goa to enjoy the splendid climate. In the summertime (which, in Goa, is the rainy season), tourists from across India come to spend the holidays.

This tiny state is situated on the west coast of India, between the borders of Maharastra and Karnataka and is better known to the world as the former Portuguese enclave on Indian soil. With the rule of the Portuguese for over 450 years and the consequential influence of the Latin culture, Goa presents a somewhat different picture to the foreign visitor than any other part of the country. The state of Goa is famous for its excellent beaches, churches, and temples. The Bom Jesus cathedral is another famous attraction in Goa.

In Goa, many of the resorts are situated in enclaves. These up-market resorts are run by western companies, and all the money and profits go back to them. For local people, this is not considered to be good. They are living in poverty, while the tourists are able to feast on lots of food and wash in hot water whenever they want.

1 Wildlife
2 Tourism in Goa
3 See also
4 External links
5 Notes and references

[edit] Wildlife

Foxes, wild boars and migratory birds are found in the jungles of Goa. The avifauna includes kingfishers, mynas and parrots. Numerous types of fish are also caught off the coast of Goa and in its rivers. Crabs, lobsters, shrimps, jellyfish, oysters and catfish form some of the piscine catch. Goa also has a high snake population, which keeps the rodent population in control. Goa has many famous National Parks, including the renowned Salim Ali bird sanctuary. Other wildlife sanctuaries include the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Molem Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Madei Wildlife Sanctuary, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary located on the island of Chorao.The Mangeshi temple and the Malsa temple are among the famous ones.

[edit] Tourism in Goa

Cycle Goa. Experiencing Goa on a cycle CycleGoa is a new company based in Cavelossim, Salcette, which specializes in day tours of the local area by bicycle. The company is run by two Englishman, Peter and Adrian who loved Goa so much they decided to move here. Their aim is for you to discover the beauty Goa has to offer once off the main routes. Their team of local guides share their local knowledge ensuring your trip is both interesting that you finish the trip with an understanding of local life. CycleGoa have searched the back roads in order to find the some of the quietest, most scenic routes available. Coming off the main road, you will be guided through a combination of shady jungle going into small villages and then into open grassland, where you are likely to see Water Buffalo grazing. All of which will help you to appreciate beauty Goa has to offer. The routes have been carefully selected and whatever your fitness level, they are sure to have a route suitable. There tours range from simple flat roads through to hill and mountain climbs to test the fittest cyclist. Don’t worry if you are not fit enough for these though as they have a back up vehicle which can assist, so you can still take part and enjoy the day. All tours are cycled at a leisurely pace. If you prefer a tour at a faster pace, they arrange it separately. They have a wide selection of bicycles from mountain bikes through to the typical Indian fixed gear. Their bikes are regularly maintained and are kept to a high standard. Their bicycles are also available for daily hire. So why not join them and Cycle Goa.