Goa: A study in the unity of cultures and styles of architecture

Goa is blessed with so much beauty that it is actually difficult to describe in words. It is no less than a paradise for those who like exploring beaches. People from all over the world come to experience Goa’s beautiful coastline and especially, its architecture that reflects the perfect blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures.

Christianity is the second most followed religion in Goa, after Hinduism. We got to know that 25% of the Goans follow Christianity and this is the reason that Goa is home to the splendid churches such as Se Cathedral, Basilica of Bom Jesus, and Our lady of Immaculate Conception. Also, the architecture of some of the famous temples of Goa, like Mangueshi Temple, Shanta Durga Temple, and Mahalaxmi Temple, adds to the charm of the place.

Goa is known as the beach capital of India. Some of Goa’s famous beaches are Baga, Anjuna, Calangute, Vagator, Chapora and Candolim Beach. Lying in the pearl of the orient, Baga Beach is one of the famous beaches where one can enjoy various water sports. While Baga and Calangute are more popular among the Indian family crowd, Anjuna and Arambol draw a lot of foreign tourists. The beaches in South Goa are relatively less explored, but some of them like Agonda and Palolem are very beautiful.

Some famous forts in Goa are Aguada, Chapora, Tiracol, and Corjuem Fort. Aguada Fort is one of the most famous and well-preserved forts in Goa. Once there was a prison, Goa’s Central Jail, below the fort which was closed down in 2015. There are plans to convert the same into a museum. Other than Aguada, Chapora Fort attracts people for the breathtaking views of the coast that it offers. The Tiracol Fort also provides a beautiful view of the Arabian Sea and in the past, it served as a place where freedom fighters used to hold demonstrations.

Goa is one of the major tourist destinations of India. It attracts an estimated 2.5 million visitors each year (including about 400,000 foreign tourists) from across the globe. We felt the pull towards Goa for its coastlines and Portuguese history.  

So what are you waiting for? Put on your travelling shoes and head to the country’s beach paradise to experience great food, great shopping, and great people.

Team members – Aadit Sahni, Aditya Mohan Agarwal, Krishickaa Sadana, and Manya Bhatla (The Millennium School, Lucknow).