South Goa has a population of 639,962 as claimed by 2011 census, thus, a population density of 330/km² (840/sq mi). There has been a major growth in the population rate over the decade 2001-2011, i.e., 8.63%. The mother tongue of the inhabitants of South Goa is Konkani which is spoken by a majority of the people. You can even hear some individuals interacting in Marathi but the number is very less. English and Hindi are understood by maximum people, however, they are just foreign languages practiced in the buzzing South Goa. Even Portuguese is practiced but by a very less number of people.

South Goa History

The colonization of Goa by the Portuguese started during the 1510AD and continued till 17^th and 18^th centuries. It was due to this colonization Goa was annexed by India in 19^th December 1961. South Goa is blessed with different cultures that bring out the true essence of this dreamland. It is divided into three main subdivisions namely – Margao, Mormugao (Vasco da Gama), and Quepem. Mormugao, Salcete (Margao), Quepem, Canacona (Chaudi), Sanguem, and Dharbandora are the six taluks of South Goa and the administrative head quarters is in Margao. You will have some exotic moments in this land that believes in celebration.

Geography of South Goa

Being a district of the alluring Goa, the South Goa extends till an area of 1,966 km². The geographical location of the South Goa is easily tracked from its longitudes and latitudes. 15.1177° N is the latitude while 74.1240° E is the longitude of South Goa.

Climatic Conditions in South Goa

The land of golden beaches experiences a tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification as it is situated in the tropical zone and is near the Arabian Sea. South Goa climate is temperate and most of the times, there is excess of humidity coupled with the hot weather. May is the hottest month and the average day temperatures reach up to 35 °C (95 °F). Monsoon enters South Goa by June and extends till September. It has the shortest winters that have pretty pleasant night with a temperature of 21°C (70 °F) and sweatless days having an average temperature of 28°C (82°F).

Tourist Attractions in South Goa: The Best Vacation Spots

Indian Tourism has flourished here and these amazing locations are completes the South Goa sight-seeing. The followings are:

• Colva: The pride of Salcete, this South Goa beach has numerous visitors every year. It is a perfect party destination where you can set full moon parties at definite intervals. If you want to do something unusual, then go for the Dolphin sighting as soon as the sun is up. The crowd here is full of energy.
• Vasco Da Gama: A small town named after the popular Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama, the town is famous for illegal practices. The mysterious town with unusual happenings evokes interests in the mind of the tourists. However, it also has beautiful Baina Beach and also allows snorkeling.
• Benaulim: The swaying palm and coconut trees will let you take a sunbath in this gorgeous beach and have some tans. It serves scrumptious sea-foods and the Dolphin sight-seeing will give peace to your mind.
• Chandor: The sleepy town has the most amazing relic that manifests the Portuguese architecture of the ancient times. It is a sort of mansion that also hosts weddings and parties. The town also has exclusive highlights such as Feast of Three Kings (January 6^th), Fernandes House, and Achies Art Gallery.
• Arrosim: If you are trying to seek solitude in South Goa, Arrosim can serve your purpose. The tranquility of the place will just rejuvenate your soul. Abhyanga, a four-hand massage session can be availed from any high-end resort. You will enjoy surfing through the vintage furniture and eating delicious dishes.
• Patnem: One of the best tourist places in Goa, Patnem is all about those beach shacks where you can spend some quality time. Surfing and swimming are its prime attractions and the flawless beauty will make you fall in love with the place.
• Majorda: It is the hub for all the young crowds who want to have some unforgettable times. It is claimed that Majorda taught people to bake the delicious European breads and thus, the cookies and cakes cannot be missed. The ancient church, Mae De Deus was built in 1588 A.D. and is a popular tourist attraction of South Goa.
• Madgaon Municipal Council: A popular market of South Goa that has numerous visitors every day, MMC market has various things to offer. From the masalas to the Sukha Bombil (dried Bombay Duck), it is a one stop destination for different types of spices and edibles. You must visit this market when you are stopping in South Goa.

Nearest Places to Visit in South Goa

The visitors will never get tired of visiting the tourist places of Goa and when it comes to South Goa, there are uncountable destinations. Varca, Cavelossim and Colomb are some other popular sites whereas if you are looking for exploring the bygone Portuguese culture, Loutolim has all those historic buffs.

Best Hotels in South Goa

There are several cheap hotels in South Goa that can render comfortable stays. You can also check the Goa Holiday Packages that guarantee best South Goa Hotels which also come with exclusive amenities. Here is the list of the best hotels in South Goa:

• Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa – Arossim Beach Road, Cansaulim, South Goa – 403712
  (Contact Number: 0832 272 1234)
• Taj Exotica – Calwaddo, Salcete, Benaulim, Goa – 403716
  (Contact Number: 0832 668 3333)
• Ramada Caravela Beach Resort – Varca, Salcete, Margao, Goa – 403721
  (Contact Number: 0832 669 5000)
• The Zuri White Sands, Goa Resort & Casino – Pedda Varca, Goa – 403721
  (Contact Number: 0832 272 7272)
• Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Goa – 30/3, Acsona Waddo, Uttorda Beach, Salcette, Goa – 403713
  (Contact Number: 0832 675 1000)
• MAYFAIR Hideaway Spa Resort, Goa – Rangali, Velim, Betul, Goa – 403723
  (Contact Number: 0832 272 1111)
• The Tubki Resort – House No.332/G, Patnem- palolem beach road, Patnem, palolem, Canacona, GA-403702 (Contact Number: 0832 264 3888)
• The Treehouse Blue – Curilo, Pacheco Vaddo, Majorda Salcete, Margao, Goa 403713
  (Contact Number: 091300 62451)
• Radisson Blu Resort – Near Cavelossim Beach, Salcette, Goa 403731
  (Contact Number: 0832 672 6666)

Be it a luxurious stay or a visit full of events, these resorts and hotels can serve your purpose well. The resorts in South Goa have gained prominence beside all those traditional hotels in the popular South Goa destinations. You are surely going to create some unforgettable memories.

Higher Educational Institutes in South Goa

People not always visit South Goa with the purpose of spending some glorious days but sometimes also for the purpose of pursuing higher education. The best education Institutes in South Goa are:

• Birla Institute of Technology & Science – NH 17B Bypass Road, Zuarinagar, Sancoale, Goa – 403726 (Contact Number: 0832 258 0101)
• Parvatibai Chowgule College of Arts & Science –Old Library Chow, College Building, Gogol, Margao, Goa – 403602 (Contact Number: 0832 275 9504)
• Carmel College For Women – Nuvem (Contact Number: 0832 279 0714)
• Govind Ramnath Kare College of Law –G R Kare Road, Tansor, Comba, Margao, G R Kare Road, Goa – 403601 (Contact Number: 0832 270 5884)
• Padre Conceicao College of Engineering – Agnel Technical Education Complex, Agnelgan, Verna, Goa – 403722 (Contact Number: 0832 279 1266)
• Don Bosco College Of Engineering – Fatorda, Margao, Goa – 403001 (Contact Number:0832 274 3944)
• Rosary College of Arts and Commerce – Butica, Navelim, Salcete, Goa – 403707 (Contact Number: 094041 50604)
• MES College – Zuarinagar, Vasco da Gama, Goa – 403726 (Contact Number: 0832 255 5772)
• Shree Mallikarjun College Of Arts And Commerce – Delem Campus, Canacona, Canacona, Goa – 403702 (Contact Number: 0832 263 3422)

Hospitals in South Goa

Sometimes uncertain situations might take place while you are enjoying your vacations. The recognized hospitals of South Goa are a boon for both the natives and the tourists. The trustworthy hospitals of South Goa are:

• NUSI Wockhardt Hospital, Goa – Edapally-Panvel Highway, Near Indian Oil Petrol Bunk, Salcete, Cuncolim, Goa – 403703 (Contact Number: 0832 668 4444)
• Apollo Victor Hospital – Station Malbhat, Near Carmelite Monastery, Margao, Goa – 403601 (Contact Number: 0832 672 8888)
• Kantak Ajit – Rosadel Enclave, Old Market, Near District Court, Margao, Goa – 403601 (Contact Number: 0832 270 3892)
• Trimurti General Hospital – Las Palmas Housing Estate, Margao, Margao, Goa – 403601 (Contact Number: 0832 270 0707)
• Goa Ayurvedic Hospital – Behind Railway Next to, Apollo Victor Hospital, Station Road, Malbhat, Margao, Goa – 403601 (Contact Number: 0832 272 6080)
• Gracias Maternity Hospital- Near Police Station, M Menezes Road, Margao, Goa – 403601 (Contact Number: 0832 273 0958)
• Royal Hospital – Aquem Alto, Margao, Goa – 403601 (Contact Number: 0832 273 7722)

Tourism in India has developed over the years and South Goa has witnessed numerous visitors every season for over a decade now. The admixture of various culture and adventurous activities, South Goa has been favourite of many. Be away from the chaotic life for few days and enjoy the waves of South Goa.

North Goa History

Goa was reorganised into the district of North Goa and the district of South Goa. North Goa is culturally diverse. People of different faith and religion have found their home in religion in North Goa. The Portuguese influenced various aspects of the people of North Goa and it is evident in their culture, language, festivities, faith and cuisine. Konkani and Marathi are widely spoken in North Goa, while a small group still speaks and understands Portuguese.

Territories of North Goa like Pernem, Sattari and Bicholim were under the direct Kingdom of the Sawantwadi. The region of Ponda was a sometimes a part of the Sunda Kingdom or the Maratha. These territories of North Goa were conquered by the Portuguese in the late 18th centuries and were under their rule till 1961 when Goa was seized by India.

Geography of North Goa

The district of North Goa is spread across an area of 1736 km², and is surrounded by Maharashtra in the north and Karnataka in the east, District of South Goa in the south and in the west by the Arabian Sea. North Goa’s geographical location is marked from 15o 48’ 00” N to 14o 53’ 54” N latitudes and from 73o E to 75o E longitudes.

Climatic Conditions in North Goa

North Goa enjoys a Tropical monsoon climate. The North Goa Climate is influenced by the nearby Arabian Sea that renders the region a hot and humid climate. The average summer temperature is over 35 °C (95 °F) and is usually accompanied with a high level of humidity. The monsoon starts from early June and lasts till late September bringing respite from the unbearable heat. North Goa, witnesses short and humid winter that usually arrives by the mid of December and lasts till the month of February. The average temperature in winter fluctuates between 21 °C (70 °F) – 28 °C (82 °F). October to March is the ideal tourist season, which offers clear blue skies, cool weather and almost perfect temperature of the water.

Tourist Attractions in North Goa: The Best Vacation Spots

• Aguada Beach: Aguada Beach is a place to visit in North Goa. Besides the eye catchy scenic beach, another highlight of this spot is the sea facing fort that stands on a cliff. The calm and pristine atmosphere of the Aguada beach makes it perfect to enjoy evening strolls and witness the sun setting down. Tourists can indulgence into a variety of activities here including shopping, massage and water sports.
• Baga Beach: Baga is a picturesque and crowd friendly beach that offers the tourists with ample of options to experience a wide variety of activities both during the daytime and at night. The presence of a number of restaurants and bars adds a party and fun mood in the beach. It is one of the best vacation spots in North Goa.
• Calangute Beach: Calangute is adjacent to Baga and is an abode for the adventurists. Besides the water sports and paragliding experience, the beach also offers the wide range of scrumptious seafood. The nearby marketplaces have the tendency to draw crowds towards this beach.
• Goa State Museum: This archaeology museum is a storehouse of history and diverse culture of Goa and is among the well-maintained places in the whole state. The museum has fairly a large collection and is indeed among the must see places in North Goa.
• Chapora Fort: Chapora Fort was built in 1617 to serve as the watch tower of the border. It is believed that the Portuguese ruled over this fort for over 150 years. Presently the fort is in ruins but it offers a gorgeous view of the Anjuna and Vagator beaches and also serves as a great sightseeing hub for scenic photographs.
• Mangueshi Temple: It among the largest temples in Goa and is located in Priol in Mangueshi Village. The temple is 450 years old and is dedicated to God Mangesh, a reincarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is simple and has exquisitely graceful structures. Chandeliers of the 19^th century still adorn the temple.  The Magha Poornima Festival is observed in the temple with great pomp and show.
• The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception: It was built in 1541 and is considered as the first church in Goa. The church is an example of excellent architecture with extensive and intricate carvings on either side of the marble statues of St. Paul and St. Peter. The statue of St. Francis Xavier is enclosed in a glass structure and is positioned at the main altar on the reredos.
• Arvalem Waterfalls: Arvalem Waterfalls is a masterpiece of nature that is situated in Sanquelim and is located near Bicholim. During monsoon season, the fall comes to life and offers an excellent view as the water falls from a height of 50m. Arvalem caves and Rudreshwar temple, which are other famous tourist spots, are also located near this scenic waterfall.
• Anjuna Beach Flea Market: If you are wondering about the places to see in Goa, this Flea Market is a place to look out for. It is held every Wednesday and is a mini carnival in itself. It evolved in the 60s and was mostly like a garage sale. However, at present, the market is a fashion street, filled with great souvenirs, fashion items and beautiful artefacts. Food stalls at the market offer authentic Goan delicacies.
• Panaji: Panaji is one of the most laid-back capitals in all of India. Situated at a look where it overlooks the Mandovi River, it is among those places where the prevalence of Portuguese influence is still strong. The old Latin Quarter showcases the Portuguese lifestyle, through its glow yellow houses with the purple door, ochre-colored mansions, iron balconies and oyster shell windows.
• Candolim Beach: The Candolim Beach, the town of Mapusa, the shack Curlies, Bicholim, the scenic backwaters of Chapora River, The Kala Academy and the Greeco-Roman structures of Dona Paula are some of the best tourist spots in North Goa.

Nearest Places to Visit in North Goa

Other places of interest near North Goa include a number of mesmerising beaches like Mobor Beach, Colva Beach and Varca Beach. One can experience the rich biodiversity of Goa in the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary and experience the scenic tranquillity at the Chapoli Dam. The Churches of Goa and Mangeshi Temple are among the popular dive abodes of Goa that are rich in architecture and implicit beauty. From North Goa Resorts to North Goa Beach Resorts the visitors can have a comfortable stay with the value for money cheap hotel deals.

Best Hotels in North Goa

The peace that the North Goa Beaches render tends to rejuvenate your mind and soul. The following are 10 best hotels of North Goa that fits your budget and offers you great Goa hotel deals and Goa Holiday Packages:

• Santana Beach Resort– Candolim, North Goa
• La Cabana Beach and Spa Resort– Morjim, North Goa
• The O Resort and Spa- Candolim, North Goa
• The Baga Marina Beach Resort & Hotel- Baga, North Goa
• Sea Mist Beach Resort- Candolim, North Goa
• Hotel Goan Heritage– Calangute, North Goa
• Riva Beach Resort- Arambol, North Goa
• Ramada Caravela Beach Resort- Cavelossim, North Goa
• Sonesta Inns- Candolim, North Goa
• Resort Rio- Baga, North Goa

North Goa Tourism has flourished over the recent years. There are numerous places in North Goa for sight-seeing. Choose your favourite hotels and opt for discounts through Goa hotel deals and have a mesmerising journey that will be forever engraved in your mind.

Higher Educational Institutes in North Goa

Tourist places in Goa not only offer picturesque surroundings but also education institutions for interested individuals. Here is the list of some of the institutes making notable changes in the life of the students:

• Goa Medical College and Hospital – Bambolim, (Contact number: 0832 2495393)
• Xavier’s College- Mapusa, Bardez (Contact number: 0832 2262356, 2250705)
• Goa Institute of Management – Panjim, Goa (Contact number: 0832 -2366700)
• Goa College of Engineering – Farmagudi, (Contact number: 0832 2336302, 2336301)
• Goa College of Home Science- Opposite Parade Ground, Campal, (Contact number: 0832 2227603, 0832 2425254)
• M Salgaocar College of Law- Miramar, Panjim, Goa 403001 (Contact number: 0832 246 2178)
• College of Hospitality and Culinary Education – Cidade de Goa, Vainguinim Beach (Contact number: 0832 2454560, 2454561)
• Agnel College of Arts and Science – Pilar, North Goa (Contact number: 0832 2218673, 0832 229833)
• Don Bosco College – G Road, Panjim (Contact number: 0832-6644321, 2221986)

Hospitals in North Goa

North Goa is safe for both the tourists and its denizens as it has some of the best hospitals in the nation. Several multinational hospitals have been built to provide superior services. The most recommendable are:

• Manipal Hospital (Multi-Specialty) – Dr E Borges Rd, Dona Paula, Panjim (Phone- 0832 3002500)
• Vision Multispeciality Hospital – Duler Ground Rd, Mapusa, Goa (Phone- 0832 2266788)
• RG Stone Urology Hospital & Laparoscopy – Panjim, Mapusa (Phone- 0832 6640600, 0832 6640601)
• Adhar Hospital (Urology) – Parvati Nagar, Sarvan Collan, Bicholim (Phone- 08322361094)
• Appolo Hospitals – Malbhat, Margao (Phone- 0832 2728888)

North Goa being one of the best vacation spot, tourism has flourished in the land having the non-native essence. The presence of the Portuguese and various other cultures makes the land of foreigners unique from the rest. Plan a stay in this miraculous land offering fashion, beauty and culture in its best way.