South Goa

Dudhsagar Falls of Goa is a majestic waterfall where the white water gushing through the steep and vertical face of the mountain portrays a cascading effect. Standing as tall as 310 metres, it makes sure to stand in the list of tallest waterfalls in India. The cascading effect of this waterfall gives rise to the illusion of a milky white sea falling from such a great height. This is how the Falls acquired its name – Dudhsagar Falls. The four-tiered waterfall marks its presence along the Mandovi River in the Sanguem taluka (Goa). The main river of Goa – Mandovi, originating from the Deccan Plateau winds its way through the twists and turns of the Western Ghats. As soon as the river plummets through the hilly cover lying along the borders of Karnataka and Goa, it transforms into Dudhsagar Falls.The moment the water gushing out from the Falls flow towards its feet, it forms a green pool at its base. It is from here that the water of the Dudhsagar Falls starts flowing westwards to join and be a part of the mighty Arabian Sea. The entire landmark in the backdrop of the falls is covered with a vastly stretched forest cover. This is how the Dudhsagar Falls form a part of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark the wildlife researching skills within you as there this sanctuary shelters a plethora of wildlife. In the past few years, the popularity of the Dudhsagar Falls has increased ten-fold as one of the most preferred weekend getaways from each of the cities of Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune. If you’ve got a big group or a family, you surely must check-in the Dudhsagar Falls for a short family outing. 

Also called St. Catherine's Cathedral this 16th-century masterpiece took 80 long years to finish and is one of the largest churches in the world. The Cathedral attains to the west of the great square called Terreiro de Sabato and has its face turned to the east. A flight of steps approaches its beautiful courtyard.  It was consecrated in 1640 and was built to honour the triumph of the Portuguese over the Muslim rulers of the city.Owing to such a magnificent aura and the glory, Se Cathedral has been stated as a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is known as the largest church in Asia, and also has a giant bell and its elegant architecture makes it a majestic white beauty. Se Cathedral also endures the honour of being the seat of the Archdiocese of Goa. Se Cathedral is home to the historic “Golden Bell” which is famous around the world as it is the largest bell with a rich sound. When you will visit the church now you will be amused to witness the amazing construction techniques and designs used while building the church. The intricate work on wood in the interiors of the church add to its beauty as it the wonderful work of art. This place is a combination of peace and beauty, visiting this place will not only rejuvenate you but will also fill you up with positivity.Legend of Saint Catherine of Se CathedralCredits: NagarjunCatherine was a lady who was considered as a Christian Saint according to tradition, and was martyred in the early 4th century at the hands of the pagan Emperor Maxentius. It is believed that she was both a princess and a noted scholar, who became a Christian at around the age of 14 and also converted hundreds of people to Christianity, and was martyred around the age of 18. Catherine was known to be a spiritual pathfinder and raise her voice against the oppression of the Christians under the rule of Roman emperor Maxentius. She was so strong and logical with her arguments that the king himself was incapable of countering them and has a then he formed a committee of 50 philosophers to debate her ideas.However, even the assembly conceded defeat in front of her and confessed Christianity as their belief. Out of anger, the king burnt the philosophers alive and sentenced st.catherine to prison. Catherine did not give up, and she was succeeded in converting not only the jailers but also the king's wife. It is believed that she showed the path of Christianity to 200 people. Even when she was facing the worse condition of her life, she continued to stretch the word of Jesus. She was honoured with the title of"patroness of the wheel-wrights" because it is believed then when she was fastened to a spiked wheel as it was mentioned in her death sentence the wheel broke and she was left uninjured. And when she was finally beheaded, it is said that angle took her remains and laid them to rest atop Mount Sinai. When you visit the Se Cathedral, you can witness the Saint Catherine ornaments, a crown portraying her royal birth and has a book in her hands, which signifies her sound knowledge as she points a spiked wheel, which reveals her martyrdom.Se Cathedral HistoryThe Cathedral is devoted to St. Catherine of Alexandria, it is said that it was built to celebrate the victory of the Portuguese ruler Alfonso Albuquerque who destroyed the Muslim army and took ownership of the city of Goa. Consequently, it is also called St. Catherine's' Cathedral. In 1953, the Cathedral was presented with "The Golden Rose" by Venerable Pope Pius XII. It is a gold ornament, which the Popes of the Catholic Church have traditionally favoured and given as a symbol of devotion or affection.You can witness it as it is placed on the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. It was approved by Governor George Cabral to be spread in 1552 on the remains of an earlier structure. The formation of the church began in 1562. The church was completed in 1619 and was consecrated in 1640.  It is a perfect place to experience a blend of peace and tranquillity. You will be filled with positivity when you will visit this sacred place.The architecture of Se Cathedral  The architecture of Se Cathedral is awe-inspiring and elegant. The architectural style is a blend of Gothic elements and typical Portuguese style, or you can say that the architecture style of the Se Cathedral is Portuguese-Manueline. There were two different techniques that were opted to make the church. The exterior was made in Tuscan style and the interior has been built in and Corinthian style. With dimensions of 250 feet long and 181 feet wide, this church has a  delightfully decorated entrance that measures around 115 feet in height. The church is amazingly decorated, yet the style is intriguing and simple. The Cathedral has been built on an elevated base of laterite, which is covered with the thick lime plaster.You can also see the bell tower which is located on the southern side of the façade. The building of the church is rectangular on the plan but has a cruciform layout in the interior. The main altar is devoted to Catherine of Alexandria, and you can also see several old paintings on either side of it. You can also see the Chapel, which is known as the Cross of Miracles, it is believed that there was an image of Christ that was said to have appeared in 1619. 

Located in Canacona in Southern Goa, Palolem Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. Known for its picturesque natural beauty and uncanny party vibes, this semi-circular beach is only a mile long. Therefore, you will not require much time to explore all the beautiful sites that the beach has to offer. So, whether you are thinking about venturing out with a partner, or on your own, Palolem beach will always be enjoyable to you in every way. The northern side of the beach is known to be a little bit safer, as the tides are somewhat calmer in this area. Therefore, if you are travelling with a small family member, then it is recommended that you stay at this side of the beach. Nevertheless, if you have an unearthly thirst for adventure, then you should pay a visit to the southern part of the beach. In this section, the nature of the tides is more uncertain and precarious. Therefore, here, you can indulge in numerous types of water activities, such as kayaking and boat riding.  Nevertheless, if you like to stay away from activities and want to spend your time in leisure, then you can also book a shack. The shacks at the Palolem Beach are quite luxurious and can offer numerous amenities to make you feel at home.

This place gives a new dimension to the dining style, which is a combination of beach, exotic cuisine, and serene aura. This deadly combination can be experienced at the Johnny Cool Beach Bar which lies on the Dover Beach, famed as one of the most alluring beaches of Goa.Here, one can savor mind-blowing Caribbean delicacies with excellent ambiance accompanied by soft jazz music to make every part of your body move on the soothing beats. It is one of the most visited tourist places in South Goa with an unbelievable quality of service.Apart from these, one can even enjoy varieties of cocktails, beer and other liquors along the beachside bar. It is undoubtedly the best place to explore in southern Goa and enjoy meals in the relaxing environment coupled with striking sandy beaches.Location: Dover Beach, Below Dover Playing Field, Dover, Barbados.

Lying on the shores of a quaint coastal village in Goa, Colva beach is a truly magnificent vacation spot for all tourists. It stretches for an impressive 2.4 km and features striking white sand, turquoise waves, and towering coconut palms. Tourists from around the world frequent the Colva beach for sights of stunning sunsets and remarkable blue waves. As you tread the beach, you will witness quirky huts and hotels all along the shores. The Portuguese influence on this area has been significant since the 1600s when the wealthy British and Portuguese considered Colva Beach as a prime vacation spot. You will also find numerous beach shacks, hotels, and small shops on the beach along with several ruins of ancient Portuguese villas and houses. You can take on a host of water and beach sports on the Colva beach while basking under the sun and enjoying the pleasant sea breeze. The Colva Church, also called Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Mercês, lends religious significance to the beach.

Agonda Beach is a carpet of white sands dotted with colourful shacks giving the authentic Goan vibes. The Arabian Sea on this part is passionately touching the shores of the shining beach dotted with lush green coconut and palm trees. It is one of the cleanest beaches of Goa which are remarkably less crowded. You can spend a very calm alone time amidst the peaceful silence of the beach. You can find some cosy shacks which have a warm, welcoming vibe attracting people to enter it and relax a little bit.These shacks serve a variety of original local cuisines along with chosen delicacies from around the world. They provide you with beach beds where you can lie down under the umbrellas or hang inside a hammock watching the scenes around the beach. There are various spots at the beach, where you can sign up for water sports and enjoy a distinct variety of adventure. They even train you for some water sports like jet skiing and surfing so that you can enjoy them also if you are a beginner. This whole package of fun on one stretch of sand is no less than a party. So you are required to come here and enjoy everything the Agonda beach has for you.

Drive far to the Southern Goa, through the muddy off-track road to arrive at the edge of the Sea and get ready to witness the glory of past - Cabo de Rama fort. The fort is perched between the two famous beaches in South Goa - Cavelossim, and Agonda.The Hindu rulers and the Portuguese rulers both had hands behind development of this fort. So, this gives you a chance to explore the architecture wonders of various cultures. One path of the fort will take you to the top of it and other to its on-premise church.There is shining white church built by the Portuguese rulers here and you can take part in a feast hosted annually. Thus, on reaching this heritage site, you will definitely receive an abundance of insight on all that the fort witnessed in the past.Also, the magnificent fort overlooks the gorgeous Arabian Sea; thus, offers a striking contrast to the ruins of this ancient site. In fact, this fort is popular for presenting the visitors with the best mesmerizing sunset views. No doubt, on touring the ancient monument, you'll return as a vibrant person enriched with the history the fort depicts and gifted by the beauty all around it. So, get ready to enjoy a unique experience here, one that you will never forget.

Benaulim Beach is a serene beach situated about 2 kilometres south of Colva. It is a fishing beach, which is known for its calm and relaxed nature. If you’re a tourist in search of a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday, Benaulim beach might be the place for you.This beach is almost hidden from the large crowds that surge through the North Goan beaches and in spite of having a considerable fishing industry, tourists aren't aware of it. The weather here is much like other places in Goa with hot summers, pleasant winters and torrential monsoons. One thing that makes Benaulim stand out from other Goan beaches is how clean and calm it is.Benaulim Beach is so clean because it is away from the noisy crowds that we normally associate Goa with. There are several kilometres of just smooth white sand with a few fishing trawlers scattered here and there. Although most of the time, Benaulim is a quiet paradise, it does tend to get a little crowded in the evenings as tourists come to enjoy the west-coast Indian sunset. The beach also tends to get crowded during the weekends.Being far away from the energy of the city, time works differently on Benaulim Beach, and this place gives tourists the perfect getaway.