Modern Day History of Goa

Goa is India's smallest state in terms of area and the fourth smallest in terms of population. Located on the west coast of India in the region known as the Konkan, it is bounded by the state of Maharashtra to the north, and by Karnataka to the east and south, while the Arabian sea forms its western coast.  Panaji (Panjim) is the state's capital, Vasco da Gama (Vasco) the largest city, while the historic city of Margao still exhibits the influence of Portuguese culture. Renowned for its beaches, Goa is visited by hundreds of thousands of international and domestic tourists each year. Goa is also known for its temples and world heritage architecture including the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, which makes it one of the biggest Christian pilgrimage sites in Asia.  Goa also has rich flora and fauna, owing to its location on the Western Ghats range, which is classified as a biodiversity hotspot.

Independent History of Goa When India became independent in 1947, Goa remained under Portuguese occupation. The Indian Government of Jawaharlal Nehru insisted that Goa be turned over to India. Portugal, however, refused.  On December 19, 1961, Indian forces invaded the enclaves, despite a decision by the United Nations General Assembly that the people of Goa would determine their own future. Named Operation Vijay, twenty Indians and 17 Portuguese were killed in the fighting, which lasted twenty-six hours. Goa became a Territory of the Republic of India; it was admitted to Indian statehood in 1987.  Goa celebrates its "Liberation Day" on 19 December every year, which is also a state holiday.

Portuguese History of Goa In 1498, Vasco da Gama became the first European to set foot in India via a sea route. His successful mission led to other European powers seeking an alternate route to India as the traditional land routes were closed by the Turks. In 1510, the ruling Bijapur kings were defeated by the Portuguese admiral Afonso de Albuquerque, with the help of a local ally, Timoji (Timayya). The Portuguese set up a base in Goa in their quest to control the spice trade.

Ancient History of Goa The Mahabharata refers to Goa as Goparashtra, "a nation of cowherds or of nomadic tribes". Para­shurama, the Hindu god, according to legend, flung his arrow on the coast and made the waters recede, thus founding the Konkan. The Southern Konkan was called Govarashtra. In ancient Indian texts in Sanskrit she is also known as Gopakapuri or Gapakapattana. This only corroborates the idea that Goa was a very prosperous state, since cattle was the criterion of wealth. The name Gomant for Goa also occurs in the said Indian epic Mahabharata and in the sacred Hindu texts like Harivansa and Skanda as well. In the latter, Goa is even known as Gomanchala. They equally refer to her as Govapuri in Suta Sanhita, an Indian classic.

VISIT TO GOA - A DREAM OF EVERY INDIVIDUAL

As is known, India is a land of diversity in which one finds everything, be it language, religion, festivities, attire, food, people, etc. No where in India is this diversity reflected more vividly as in Goa. Besides being a miniature kaleidoscope in India, Goa is a beautiful place of Sand, Sea and Sunshine. Goa is basically a tourist destination, of scenic beaches, greenery, temples and churches. One can spend hours admiring the scenic beauty around. All the major festivals are celebrated together by all people of Goa, irrespective of their caste, creed or religion. Worthy to mention, is the Carnival festival held every year for 4 days in February/ March. The people of Goa are peace loving, very friendly and helpful.

A holiday in Goa with relaxation on the sea side under the gentle swaying of whispering Palms is every tourists dream. We, at ROYAL HOLIDAYS help people in making their dream come true.

TOURS OPERATED IN GOA

Beach & Sand: Tour to the lovely beaches of Goa known all over the world.		Accomodation: The guests are provided with accommodation in ancient Goan style cottages, of concrete/ mud walls, dung/ cement floor, palm/tile roof, double bed with soft mattress & well protected mosquito nets, and western comforts of an attached bath/lavatory with 24 hours water & electricity supply.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Nestled in the heart of the Sahadri mountain range(Western Ghats of India) cascade from a height of 600 metres the gushing milky waterfall. A perfect place for a cool swim under the downfall of the Dudhsagar and enjoying the peaceful moments amongst the birds and monkeys. One of memorable experiences of an adventurous safari ride through the forest rock land by jeeps, crossing the water streams.		Meals: At Royal Retreat, the eco-friendly nature camp, the meals are cooked on fire wood in earthern ware. Original Goan food is served. For other special orders, the best efforts are made to suit the tastes of the guests from different countries.
Forest Village Life: Overnight at "Royal Retreat Nature Camp" A relaxation to mind body and soul at remote and quiet village, miles away from the noise pollution of the city life to the quietness of ancient villages. Royal Retreat Nature Camp is located besides a fresh water stream.		Temples & Churches: Visit the ancient renowned temples & churches in Goa
Other facilities provided at nature camp. Television in the hall Badminton Chess Carom Relaxing on the hammocks Swim in the cool stream.