Page 9 - PhotoBook

INTRODUCTION

Goa is a state on the southwestern coast over 275 species of birds, over 48 kinds of
of India within the region known as the animals and over 60 genera of reptiles. Goa
Konkan. It is surrounded by the Indian is also known for its coconut cultivation.
states of Maharashtra to the north and The coconut tree has been reclassified
Karnataka to the east and south, with the by the government as a palm (like grass),
Arabian Sea forming its western coast. It is enabling farmers and real estate developers
India’s smallest state by area and its fourth- to clear land with fewer restrictions.
smallest by population. Panaji is the state’s Tourism is generally focused on the coastal
capital, while Vasco da Gama is its largest areas of Goa, with lower tourist activity
city.
inland. Goa was a destination of choice
Goa’s official language, which is spoken by for Indian and foreign tourists, particularly
a majority of its inhabitants, is Konkani. Goa Britons and Russians, with limited means
is visited by large numbers of international who wanted to party. The state was hopeful
and domestic tourists each year because that changes could be made which would
of its white-sand beaches, active nightlife, attract a more upscale demographic.
places of worship, and World Heritage-listed
architecture. It also has rich flora and fauna One of the biggest tourist attractions in
because it lies on the Western Ghats range, Goa is water sports. Beaches like Baga
a biodiversity hotspot. Goa encompasses and Calangute offer jet-skiing, parasailing,
an area of 3,702 km2 (1,429 sq mi). It lies banana boat rides, water scooter rides,
between the latitudes 14°53′54″ N and and more. Over 450 years of Portuguese
15°40′00″ N and longitudes 73°40′33″ E and rule and the influence of the Portuguese
74°20′13″ E. culture presents to visitors to Goa a
cultural environment that is not found
Goa features a tropical monsoon climate elsewhere in India. Goa is often described
under the Köppen climate classification. as a fusion between Eastern and Western
Goa, being in the tropical zone and near the culture with Portuguese culture having a
Arabian Sea, has a hot and humid climate dominant position in the state be it in its
for most of the year. architectural, cultural or social settings.
The state of Goa is famous for its excellent
Goa’s wildlife sanctuaries boast of more beaches, nightlife, temples & churches.
than 1512 documented species of plants,