oa has it all. Sun, sand and sea, a unique blend of Latin and Oriental, incredibly rich in monuments and historical sites, dazzling variety of exotic flora and fauna, lush green hinterland, rivers that offer water adventure sports that will thrill you beyond expectation.

This tiny emerald land of 3,702 sq. km. on the west coast of India, with its natural scenic beauty, attractive beaches, churches and temples, famous for Its architecture, feasts and festivals and above all hospitable people with a rich cultural milieu, has an ideal tourist profile.

Its rivers -Tiracol, Chapora, Mandovi, Zuari, Sal and Talpona, which are navigable throughout the year, have their origin in the Sahyadri ranges and flow westward into the Arabian sea 60km. away, breaking the long 105 km long coastline into enchanting estuaries and bays which mark off idyllic palm-fringed beaches like - Arambol, Vagator, Anjuna, Baga and Calangute in the north, and Colva, Cavelosim, Betul and Palolem in the south.

These beaches continue to draw visitors from all parts of the world. Stretch yourself and relax on the vast and shimmering expanse of sand right alongside the sea and let your heartbeats drown in the mighty roar of the waves. Let your sights wander to the farther point on the horizon, where the sea and the sky apparently meet, and soak in the sheer enormity of what you behold. Revel in the sun, sand and sea combination.

Enter the fascinating world of Goa's rich and varied heritage. Ruins of forts and monuments tell tales of a glorious past, of changing fortunes, of a different, but nevertheless exciting Goa. Of the time of Kadamba rulers, of Adil Shah, of the Portuguese reign. Imposing churches and temples built in an era gone by stand as important landmarks in Goa's march in time down the ages. They are today major tourist attractions.

Come home to nature - to the wildlife an bird sanctuaries, into the deep, dark woods - and wake to the tune of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Feast your eyes on a dazzling variety of exotic flora and merrily run behind colourful butterflies. Rediscover your childhood innocence.

Or take to the water. A range of water sports such as para-sailing and - will thrill you beyond expectations. For the adventurous, there is bungee jumping too.

The most happening places in Goa:

Calangute: Sixteen kilometers from the capital city of Panaji in north Goa is one of the world's loveliest and most famous beaches, Calangute. Stretching several hundred metres, Calangute is among the most popular destination for domestic and foreign holidaymakers in Goa. Excellent accommodation available with a choice of hotels, resorts and tourist cottages.

Vagator: It is difficult to find another spot as mesmerizing as the Vagator Beach which is just a little over 20 kilometers from Panaji. On the one side you have the vast and seemingly endless expanse of water and on the other, the historic Chapora fort.

Anjuna: Be prepared for a dazzling display of natural beauty at Anjuna which lies less than a half hour drive from Panaji. Explore the sand filled coastline and the legendary village of Anjuna that is home to the magnificent Albuquerque mansion.

Colva: A popular destination in south Goa, the Colva Beach is surely a jewel in Goa's crown of beaches. Few can rival its scenic splendour. Good restaurants with a range of exotic cuisine and quality accommodation available close by.

Palolem: With the imposing, lush green Western ghats as the backdrop, the Palolem Beach in the south is one of the most enchanting beaches of Goa. Relatively less frequented, it is the ideal locale for tourists seeking a close tie with nature and privacy. Less than 40 km. from the commercial centre of Margao.

Reis Magos Church: One of the earliest churches to be built in Goa - in 1555, the Reis Magos Church was dedicated to the three Magi kings. It was once the residence of top dignitaries and also a mission centre of the Franciscan order. It is a fine historical monument.

Basilica of Bom Jesus: One of the country's most famous churches and among the most revered by Christians worldwide, is located in Old Goa, 10 km east of Panaji. It is a World Heritage Monument. The mortal remains of St Francis Xavier, kept in a silver casket, are enshrined in this church which has been dedicated to Infant Jesus.

Se Cathedral: The most imposing of all churches, the Se Cathedral overwhelms the visitor with its grandeur and awesome presence. Dedicated to St Catherine, the cathedral, close to the Bom Jesus Basilica, has five bells, one of which is the Golden Bell, Among the best in any church in the world.

The Carnival of fun and merry making

Signifying everything pagan in rituals, color forms and the abandon, Carnival, in goa is one very vibrant festival that heralds the time of lent for the Goan Christian community. Celebrated as a three day period of merrymaking and revelry where the Monarch of the festival, King Momo and his consort the queen are chosen, The Carnival is one of the most awaited summer fiestas.

Adapted from the Portuguese during their tenure in Goa, Carnival highlights grand parades of floats and decorated traditional and cultural troupes performing on the roads as part of the programs organised and feted by the Government and the tourism industry.

Goa certainly is a land of dreams and romance…A timeless world of gentle hospitable people and unhurried activity.