Capital- Panjim
Population 1.2 million
Area 3659 sq. kms.
Language Konkani, Marathi, English



A major tourist attraction, in the India's west coast, Goa is enclosed by the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. Goa became the part of Indian Union in 1961and attained the status of an independent state in 1987. The unusual blend of Eastern and Western culture comes from 1000 years of Hindu and Muslim rule, followed by 5 centuries of Portugese rule.

Goa is unlike the rest of India. The sand and the sea, warmed by the sun, gleaming churches with Portugese-style facades, rice paddies and coconut palm groves - all make Goa one of India's prized possessions. Goa becomes extra lively when the Carnival explodes onto the streets of four joyous days and nights. During the monsoon Goa becomes a feast for the eye. Goa is also the country's major exporter of iron ore and manganese.