By Indian standards, Goa is a very small state with only two
districts -North and South Goa. These districts are together further
divided into 11 talukas. These divisions, however, don't make much sense
for a traveller. North and South Goa are similar, and each has its own
"coastal" and "interior" areas. The major division in Goa is actually
between the central coastal areas where the beaches are located and the
hinterland. The coastal areas were under colonial rule for longer,
reflecting more of Portugal's influence, including having a relatively
larger Christian population. The interior is more Hindu, and has more
protected forest areas, mining zones and villages.
Contrary to popular perception, Goa is not an island, though
parts of what was considered "Goa" in the past were cut-off from the
mainland by the many rivers this region is known for.
Regions
North Goa (Bardez, Bicholim, Pernem, Ponda, Sattari, Tiswadi)
South Goa (Canacona, Mormugao, Quepem, Salcette, Sanguem)
South Goa (Canacona, Mormugao, Quepem, Salcette, Sanguem)
Cities
- Panaji (Panjim, also referred to a Ponn'je in Konkani, and earlier called Pangim and Nova Goa during Portuguese rule) – the state capital
- Margao
- Vasco Da Gama
- Old Goa, home of famed sixteenth century churches, convents and monuments
- Mapusa
Goa also has a number of other smaller, charming and sometimes
crowded towns such as those along the beach belt (Calangute, Candolim),
and in the interior (Chaudi in Canacona, Sanvordem-Quepem, Bicholim,
Pernem town, etc). Some of these are gateways to the nearby touristic
areas. In addition, Goa has some nearly 350 villages, often scenic and
each having a character of its own.
