Goa

Goa is a state located on the western coast of India, known for its picturesque beaches and rich cultural heritage. The state was a Portuguese colony for over 450 years and this influence is still visible in the state's architecture, food, and festivals. Goa is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world with its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and laid-back lifestyle.

Goa is also home to many historical and religious sites, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Se Cathedral, which is said to be the largest church in Asia.

Below are some important facts to remember about Goa:

• Goa is situated on the Konkan region of India.

• Goa is a former Portuguese province. Goa joins to Indian in 1961 along with Daman, and Diu as union territory.

• On 30 May 1987, the union territory was split, and Goa was made India's twenty-fifth state.

• Goa shares its boundary with Karnataka to the east and south, Maharashtra to the north and Arabian Sea in west.

• It is India's smallest state by area and the fourth smallest by population.

• The state of Goa covers an area of 3,702 sq. km.

• Total population of Goa according to 2011 census is around 14 Lakhs. The density of population per sq km in Goa is 364.

• Panaji is the capital city of Goa. Vasco da Gama is the largest city in the state.

• Goa's main rivers are Mandovi, Zuari, Terekhol, Chapora kushavati river and the Sal.

• The whole Goa is divided in two districts, North Goa and South Goa.

• The literacy rate in Goa is 80 per cent.

• At present, Marathi and Konkani are two major languages of Goa. English is widely used in writing and conversation.

• Iron ore, manganese, ferro-manganese, bauxite etc are some of the major minerals found in Goa. Iron and manganese mining industries are the backbone of Goa’s economy.

• Tourism also plays a great role in the Economy of Goa. Goa is India's richest state with a GDP per capita. Goa is a popular tourist spot across the traveler all over the world.

• Beaches, Basilica of Born Jesus, the Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Cenotaph of Dona Catarinaare are some of the major tourist attraction in Goa.


State Symbols of Goa
Category English Term
Animal Gaur
Bird Ruby Throated Yellow Bulbul
Fish Grey mullet
Flower Jasmine
Tree Matti Terminalia crenulata
Heritage Tree Coconut palm