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Rourkela, The Engineering Heartland
April 20, 2020 in Odisha
Close to Rourkela, lie many scenic places including Khandadhar waterfall, which boasts to be the highest waterfall of its kind in the whole of eastern India. Apart from that Vedavyas, the confluence of two rivers Sankh and Koel is only a few miles from the main city, which is believed to be the abode of Vedavyasa, the great poet, who created the grandeur epic Mahabharat.
The best time to go to Rourkela is in winter. There are various clubs which organizes exhibitions,fest, a competition held during that time. This beautiful city becomes more beautiful at that time. The second best time is during Durga Puja in September – October, where one can enjoy the rich festival at that time.
Visit there:
By air – The nearest public airport is at Ranchi which is 250 km away from Rourkela, although Rourkela has its airstrip which is generally used by the dignitaries of SAIL. You can reach there by bus or rail.
By rail – Rourkela is well connected to most parts of the country by superfast trains. It takes around 7 hrs by train from Bhubaneswar. Also, you can reach here from Kolkata which takes 6 hrs. The prominent trains from Bhubaneshwar are Tapaswini express, GARIB RATH, Utkal express. The trains connecting to Kolkata are Sambaleswari express, Gyaneswari express, Gitanjali express, Azadhind, Ahmedabad Howrah express, and Mumbai-Howrah Mail. The cost for both fares is around 400 rs.
By road – You can get to Rourkela from Bhubaneshwar by luxury buses for a cost of 300-400 rs. Also, the roadway is quite good from the state capital.
Cuttack, The Millennium City
April 20, 2020 in City Guide, Odisha
Cuttack is also referred to as the millennium city of Odisha. The city is more than a thousand years old. It is also called the Silver City because it is world-famous for its silver filigree work. Also, it is referred to as the business capital of the state. It was the previous capital of Odisha until the capital was shifted to Bhubaneshwar. Now, it is a modern city but with lots of old traditions attached to it. Cuttack has a perfect combination of traditional and modern lifestyle.
Seeing places in Cuttack depends on the time of the year you are visiting this place. Summers are hot as temperatures can reach 49 degrees celsius. If you arrive in Autumn (Sept to November) you can see this city showing its cultural tradition. It’s the time of most of the festivals. Easily the second largest celebration of Durga Puja with a huge following, Cuttack hosts about 1000-1500 Puja pandals every year. Each of them is unique and distinct in shape and size. It is quite crowded during this time and chances are that you may not be allowed to travel in your vehicle through most of the parts of the city. If you have time and you are fit enough, just settle for walking throughout the city.
Cuttack was established more than 1000 years ago as a military establishment. You can still see the remnants in the old city. There is a fort which is still being excavated by the ASI. Cuttack is said to have survived a dangerous past due to the presence of Maa Cuttack Chandi and Maa Gada Chandi who guard the cities against the evil eyes and the mighty Mahanadi. It’s perhaps only the second-lowest city in the world after Amsterdam which is below sea level. Cuttack is protected from the mighty Mahanadi and Kathjodi by the Baimundi Mark which acts as an embankment to the city.
Cuttack is famous for its world-famous silver filigree work. If you visit don’t miss the mouth-watering plate of “Dahi-Vada, Aludam ghuguni, seu”. You will also get the best of Mutton, Cham, and Chicken Chops at Professor Para. If you happen to want to have a lonely evening and fresh air .. Just hop into Bidanasi River Embankment or have a drive/ride on the Baimundi Marg… you won’t be disappointed.
Cuttack is known as a place of Bawan Bazar Tepan Gali(Meaning:’52 Markets, 53 Lanes’). This place might give you the impression of an old place with very small and dirty lanes, but that’s how you define a lotus.
Take a stroll on the banks of River Kathajodi and enjoy the sunset. This is a magnificent sight. If you are visiting Cuttack sometimes in the Mid of October or November do not forget to enjoy the Dusshera and Balijatra (the biggest trade fair held in the eastern region).
Visit there:
By air – Bhubaneswar, the nearest airport is around 30 km away.
CUTTACK has a defense airport in the Charbatia area.
By train – Cuttack is situated on the East Coastline from Kolkata to Chennai. For timings etc. check with Indian Railways.
Explore Puri, the resting place of Lord Vishnu!
April 20, 2020 in Odisha
Jagannatha Temple at Puri
The Jagannatha Temple at Puri is one of the major Hindu temples built in the Kalinga style of architecture. The temple tower, with a spire, rises to a height of 58 meters (190 ft), and a flag is unfurled above it, fixed over a wheel (chakra).
The temple is built on an elevated platform (of about 420,000 square feet (39,000 m2) area),20 feet (6.1 m) above the adjacent area. The temple rises to a height of 214 feet (65 m) above the road level. The temple complex covers an area of 10.7 acres (4.3 ha). There are four entry gates in four cardinal directions of the temple, each gate located at the central part of the walls. These gates are: the eastern gate called the Singhadwara (Lions Gate), the southern gate is known as Ashwa Dwara (Horse Gate), the western gate called the Vyaghra Dwara (Tigers Gate) or the Khanja Gate, and the northern gate called the Hathi Dwara or (elephant gate). These four gates symbolize the four fundamental principles of Dharma (right conduct), Jnana (knowledge), Vairagya (renunciation), and Aishwarya (prosperity). The gates are crowned with pyramid-shaped structures. There is a stone pillar in front of the Singhadwara, called the Aruna Stambha {Solar Pillar}, 11 meters (36 ft) in height with 16 faces, made of chlorite stone; at the top of the stamba, an elegant statue of Aru?a (Sun) in a prayer mode is mounted. This pillar was shifted from the Konarak Sun Temple. The four gates are decorated with guardian statues in the form of a lion, horse-mounted men, tigers, and elephants in the name and order of the gates. A pillar made of fossilized wood is used for placing lamps as an offering. The Lion Gate (Singhadwara) is the main gate to the temple, which is guarded by two guardian deities Jaya and Vijaya. The main gate is ascended through 22 steps known as Baisi Pahaca, which are revered, as it is believed to possess “spiritual animation”. Children are made to roll down these steps, from top to bottom, to bring them spiritual happiness. After entering the temple, on the left side, there is a large kitchen where food is prepared in hygienic conditions in huge quantities; the kitchen is called “the biggest hotel in the world”.
According to a legend King Indradyumma was directed by Lord Jagannatha in a dream to build a temple for him which he did as directed. However, according to historical records, the temple was started sometime during the 12th century by King Chodaganga of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. It was completed by his descendant, Anangabhima Deva, in the 12th century. The wooden images of Jagannatha, Balabhadra and Subhadra were then deified here. The temple was under the control of the Hindu rulers up to 1558. Then, when Orissa was occupied by the Afghan Nawab of Bengal, it was brought under the control of the Afghan General Kalapahad. Following the defeat of the Afghan king by Raja Mansingh, the General of Mughal emperor Akbar, the temple became part of the Mughal empire till 1751. Subsequently, it was under the control of the Marathas till 1803. During the British Raj, the Puri Raja was entrusted with its management until 1947.
The triad of images in the temple is of Jagannatha, personifying Lord Krishna, Balabhadra, His older brother, and Subhadra, His younger sister. The images are made of neem wood in an unfinished form. The stumps of wood that form the images of the brothers have human arms, while that of Subhadra does not have any arms. The heads are large, painted, and non-carved. The faces are marked with distinctive large circular eyes.
The Pancha Tirtha of Puri
Hindus consider it essential to bathe in the Pancha Tirtha or the five sacred bathing spots of Puri, to complete a pilgrimage to Puri. The five sacred water bodies are the Indradyumana Tank, the Rohini Kunda, the Markandeya Tank, the Swetaganga Tank, and the Bay of Bengal also called the Mahodadhi, in Sanskrit ‘Mahodadhi’ means a “great ocean”; all are considered sacred bathing spots in the Swargadwar area. These tanks have perennial sources of supply from rainfall and groundwater.
Gundicha Temple
The Gundicha Temple, known as the Garden House of Jagannatha, stands in the center of a garden, bounded by compound walls on all sides. It lies at a distance of about 3 kilometers (1.9 mi) to the northeast of the Jagannatha Temple. The two temples are located at the two ends of the Bada Danda (Grand Avenue), which is the pathway for the Ratha Yatra. According to a legend, Gundicha was the wife of King Indradyumna who originally built the Jagannatha temple.
The temple is built using light-grey sandstone, and, architecturally, it exemplifies typical Kalinga temple architecture in the Deula style. The complex comprises four components: vimana (tower structure containing the sanctum), Jaganmohan (assembly hall), nata-mandapa (festival hall), and bhoga-mandapa (hall of offerings). There is also a kitchen connected by a small passage. The temple is set within a garden and is known as “God’s Summer Garden Retreat” or garden house of Jagannatha. The entire complex, including the garden, is surrounded by a wall that measures 430 by 320 feet (131 m × 98 m) with a height of 20 feet (6.1 m).
Except for the 9-day Ratha Yatra, when the triad images are worshipped in the Gundicha Temple, otherwise it remains unoccupied for the rest of the year. Tourists can visit the temple after paying an entry fee. Foreigners (generally prohibited entry in the main temple) are allowed inside this temple during this period. The temple is under the Jagannatha Temple Administration, Puri, the governing body of the main temple. A small band of servitors maintains the temple.
Visit there:
By train – Puri is well connected by Railways. Trains are from Kolkata (Howrah Jn), New Delhi, Ahmedabad, etc. It is also a major railhead on the East Coast Railway, bifurcated from Khurda Road Jn. The Railway Station of Puri is in The heart of the town and near to all hotels. If you arrive by train go to the Odishan State Tourist counter at the station for advice, they are usually very helpful and speak English. The MCO Booth is also quite helpful. Locals speak Odia. Due to the presence of people from various parts of India, there would not be a language problem. Hindi is also widely used. Some locals even speak Bengali. Though ordia is their main language.
AROUND PURI
Balighai (8 kms.)
This Casuarina fringed beautiful beach is a popular picnic spot. Brahmagiri (25 kms.) It is famous for the living shrine of Amarnath. Satyabadi (20 kms.) A visit to the shrine of Lord Sakshigopal here is considered a must for devotees coming to Puri. Baliharachandi (27 kms.) The temple of Baliharachandi (Durga) lies atop a sandy hill near the sea, adjacent to the mouth of the river Bhargavi. The scenic beauty of this place is ideal for a group picnic.
Bhubaneswar, The Temple City Of India
April 20, 2020 in City Guide, Odisha
Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is known for its architecture and ancient temples. It is also a Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage destination. The 10th-century Lingaraja temple, dedicated to Shiva, has been described as “the truest fusion of dream and reality.” The surface of the 55-meter high Lingaraja temple is covered with carvings. Sculpture and architecture fused elegantly to create perfect harmony. The best times to visit are between October and March.
This city is most renowned for changing the conqueror Asoka to the conquered. The great Kalinga War took place here between Emperor Asoka and Kalinga (the old empire of Odisha). Asoka was overwhelmed at the gory of blood that flowed like a river. Asokan inscriptions still stand testimony for this. Having merged its intriguing past so uniquely with its modern aspirations, it forms an integral link in the Golden Triangle that incorporates the holy city of Puri (Jagannath Temple) and Konark (Sun temple). The twin cave groups of Kandagiri and Udayagiri are evidence of the region’s antiquity, dating to the 2nd century BC or the early Jain monastery.
Modern Bhubaneswar is a well-planned city with wide roads and many gardens and parks. The plan was made by Otto H. Koenigsberger, a German town planner. Though part of the city has stayed faithful to the plan, it has grown rapidly over the last few decades and has made the planning process unwieldy.
Bhubaneswar is one of three cities that make up three temple towns of Odisha and make the golden temple triangle of Eastern India. Bhubaneswar is a very religious center for Hindus and Buddhists. Bhubaneswar is also known as the temple city and there are many excellent examples of Oriya architecture in the old part of the city.
- Old Town: Almost all the famous temples of Bhubaneswar are located here most of which were constructed in the 11th to 13th century period. Around 400 temples of varying sizes are located here. Be sure to visit Traffic Mahadev, a small temple which acts as a road divider.
- Lingaraj Temple: The 10th or 11th-century Lingaraja temple of Bhubaneswar has been described as “the truest fusion of dream and reality”. A rare masterpiece, the Lingaraja temple has been rated one of the finest examples of purely Hindu temple in India by Ferguson, the noted art critic, and historian. Every inch of the surface of the 55 m-high Lingaraja temple is covered with elaborate carvings. Sculpture and architecture fused elegantly to create perfect harmony. Non-Hindus are not permitted inside. However, there is an elevated viewing platform next to one of the boundary walls. To reach the platform, face the temple’s main entrance and walk around to the right. There is a laneway leading to the back of the temple and the platform.
- Bindu Sarovara: This large lake near to Lingaraj and Ananta Vasudeva temples keeps a drop (bindu) of every holy river in it.
- Khandagiri & Udayagiri, 8km from Bhubaneswar: These twin hills served as the site of an ancient Jain monastery that was carved into cave-like chambers in the face of the hill. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, some of the caves have beautiful carvings. The Rani Gumpha (Queen’s Cave), one of the largest and double-storied, is ornately embellished with beautiful carvings. In the Hati Gumpha (Elephant Cave), King Kharavela has carved out the chronicles of his reign.
- Dhauli Giri, 8km from Bhubaneswar: Looking down on the plains that bore witness to the gruesome war waged on Kalinga by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka, stand the rock edicts of Dhauli. It was here that King Ashoka, full of remorse after the Kalinga War in 261 BC, renounced his blood-thirsty campaign and turned to Buddhism. The edicts are a living testimony to the King’s change of heart. He urges his administrators to rule the land with justice and compassion. The edicts are so remarkable that they have been excellently preserved, even though they date back to the 3rd century BC. A sculpted elephant, the symbol of the boundless powers of Lord Buddha, tops the rock edicts. The Shanti Stupa or the peace pagoda, built through the Indo-Japanese collaboration, is located on the opposite hill.
- Mukteshwara Temple: Dating back to the 10th century this temple marks an important transition point between the early and the later phases of the Kalinga architecture. The highlight is the magnificent Torana – the decorative gateway, an arched masterpiece, reminiscent of Buddhist influence in Odisha. This temple is considered to be the gem of Odishan architecture. The beautiful sculptures eloquently speak of the sense of proportion and perspective of the sculptor and their unique ability in the exact depiction of the minutest objects. Mukteswara means “Lord of freedom”.
- Rajarani Temple: This temple got its name from a red-gold sandstone used, which is called Rajarani locally. It has no presiding deity but many intricately carved figurines in various stages of daily chores.
- Odisha State Museum: Housing a rich collection of sculptures, coins, copper plates, stone inscriptions, lithic and bronze age tools, rare manuscripts written on palm leaves, traditional and folk musical instruments. Rare epigraphic records are preserved in the Epigraphy Gallery. edit
- Sri Sri Krishna Balarama Mandir, ISKCON, on NH5: (ask the autorickshaw drivers, about Rs40 from town) Non-Hindus and foreigners who desire to visit a Hindu temple can go to this temple – the devotees are friendly and there is a cheap and clean vegetarian restaurant.
- Nandankanan Zoo, about 15km outside of Bhubaneswar: (large numbers of buses ply from Acharya Vihar Square or by auto-rickshaw) The zoo has some rare species of animals and is particularly well known for white tigers. There is a nice lake inside for boating, a ropeway, also the Botanical Garden is adjacent to the zoo. Avoid visiting the park on weekends when it gets pretty crowded. Open 8 am – 5 pm. Every Monday closed.
- Museum of Tribal Art & Artefacts, CRPF Square: The museum gives an impressive insight into the culture of the many different tribals living in and around Odisha. Tools, clothes and artwork is presented over several halls. In every area a guide of the museum will take care of you and give you extensive explanations – you get to know something about the things you see. Anyway, there is no entry fee.
- Deras Dam: It is situated near Chandaka Sanctuary, around 20Kms away from the Bhubaneswar Baramunda Busstand. It is a pristine, quiet lake amid nature.
Visit there:
By plane – Bhubaneswar Airport is well connected to most of the major cities of India.
By train – Bhubaneswar is the divisional headquarters of East Coast railways. It is situated on the mainline from Kolkata to Chennai and is well connected by direct train service to most major Indian cities. For timings and other details check the Indian Railways website
By road – Bhubaneshwar is situated on the National Highway no.5 which runs between Kolkata and Chennai. It is 480km from Kolkata, 445km from Visakhapatnam, 1,225km from Chennai, 32km from Cuttack, 130km from Chilika Lake (Barkul), 184km from Gopalpur-on-sea, 64km from Konark, 62km from Puri.
From Bhubaneswar, after traveling 20km there is a place known as Pipili. This place is famous for patching cloth design locally known as Chandua. From the center of the Pipili market one has to take a left turn to go towards Konark and the straight road goes to Puri.
River Cruises
March 31, 2020 in Goa
The river cruises run by the Goa Tourism (GTDC) on the Mandovi river are a must for every visitor. There are different kinds of cruises – daytime, sunset, and moonlight. The two types of day cruises ply from the Panaji jetty, down the Mandovi into the Panaji Zuari bay and up the Mandovi to Aldona and a mineral water spring. Some private operators also offer a variety of cruises or boat tours for sunset views as well as for crocodile or dolphin spotting. GTDC operates three launches – Santa Monica, Radhika, and Malvika. The Santa Monica, a luxury launch built on twin-hull is the pride of GTDC. It is used for daily evening cruises with ‘live’ cultural programs performed by the best cultural troupes of Goa. For further information, enquire at the Panaji jetty ticket counter.
Goa Carnival
March 31, 2020 in Goa
The Carnival is celebrated in various European and Latin American countries, but in Asia, it is held only in Goa. The Portuguese are credited to bring the Carnival to Goa, which marks the start of the Lenten season, a time of fast and abstinence. Formerly, it was celebrated as a family festival, but the Carnival in its present form started after the Portuguese left Goa. The three days colorful festival of fun and frolic opens up with a huge procession through the streets of Panaji. Colorful floats mounted on buses, trucks, trailers and giant flatbeds depict various interesting themes. The floats are accompanied by dances, parades and rhythmic beats of Goan and Western music. The Float of King Momo, the Lord of the Carnival and his court are the main attraction of the Carnival. The Carnival has become an important tourist attraction of Goa and a large number of tourists come here to enjoy the celebrations. Earlier, the parade used to end at the Panaji Church and participants attended the first Lenten service at the Church. But after the Church raised objections, this ceremony is conducted at the Azad Maidan. On the whole, the Carnival festival is a gala time for the Goans and is the best time to visit Goa.
South Goa Beaches
March 31, 2020 in Beaches, Goa
South Goa is also an endowed string of beautiful beaches. The beach journey can be commenced from Margao, which is a railway junction.
Majorda: The tranquil beach has some excellent resort complexes.
Betalbatim: It lies to the south of Majorda, near the famous Colva beach.
Colva: This beautiful beach is 6 kms. west of Margao. It is also known for the Church of Our lady of Mercy. Benaulim: The tranquil beach is just 2 kms. south of Colva and 4 kms. from Margao.
Benaulim village is also famous for exquisitely carved wooden furniture.
Varca & Cavelossim: The fine Coastline extending for about 10 kms. south of Benaulim beach is dotted with Some charming beaches.
Mobor: The Sal estuary meets the sea over here.
Betul: It is 22 kms. from Margao.
Agonda: This picturesque beach flanked by lush hills is 7 kms. from Chaud and 14 kms. south of Cabo da Rama. Palolem: The secluded palm-fringed beach flanked by hills is one of the most enchanting spots in Goa. It is about 37 kms. from Margao.
Galjibaga Beach: It lies towards the south bank of the Talpona River.
Polem: It is the southernmost beach of Goa, about 30 kms. south of Chaudi. The solitary beach is a strip of smooth white sand and is very clean. lt is visited regularly by dolphins and fish eagles.
North Goa Beaches
March 31, 2020 in Beaches, Goa
A 30 kms stretch of beautiful beaches starting northwards from Fort Aguada near Panaji has made Goa a popular tourist destination.
Sinquerim It is 16 kms. from Panaji and the first among the string of beaches starting from Fort Aguada. Taj Group’s Fort Aguada Resorts are located here.
Candolim: The Sinquerim-Candolim beach stretch is dotted with excellent resorts.
Calangute: The ‘Queen of Goan Beaches’ is the most commercial and busy beach resort.
Baga: Beautiful Baga is a continuation of Calangute and is bounded by a wooded escarpment in the north and a fresh rivulet merges into the sea here. Baga is 18 kms. from Panaji and 10 kms. west of Mapusa.
Anjuna: The most interesting and exciting part of Goa’s coastline begins beyond the Baga river from Anjuna onwards. Cool waves washing the white sands of the shores, lined with palm trees presents one of the most fascinating views.
Vagator: The beautiful beach is about 22 kms. from Panaji. Its northern half faces a bay, which curves from the headland to the hillock crowned by the Chapora Fort.
Chapora: The beach amidst dense coconut palms is dominated by the Chapora Fort.
Arambol (Harmal): This unique beach is rocky as well as a sandy beach. There is also a freshwater lagoon, extending right up to the shore. The banks of the lagoon are lined by hot springs.
Querim: Virgin white sand and the foamy beach is fringed with fir trees.
Vasco da Gama
March 31, 2020 in Goa
The headquarters of Mormugao taluka was named after Vasco da Gama, the discoverer of the sea route to India. Also known as Vasco, the town is set on the western tip of the Mormugao peninsula overlooking the left bank of the mouth of River Zuari. Vasco first came under the Portuguese rule in 1543 and went on to become one of the busiest ports on India’s western coast. In 1684, due to the increasing threats of Maratha invasion over Old Goa, the womenfolk and non-combatant men were shifted here for safety. The construction of the town was finally completed in the late 18th century, as the residential and commercial portion of the Mormugao Port, which by then had become Goa’s major harbor.
Around Vasco-Da-Gama
Mormugao (4 kms.)
Mormugao is an important commercial port town on the western coast of India.
- Mormugao Harbour: This natural harbor is one of the finest anchorages on the western coast. Several steamers and vessels can be seen anchored in the stream, which carries the iron ore and bauxite mined from the hills of Goa. Ferry service plies from Mormugao to Dona Paula across the Zuari river. From the bay relics of a 17th-century Portuguese fort, chapel and colonial Villas nestled atop a promontory can be seen.
- Hansa Beach: Itis lies inside the Naval base (INS Hansa).
- Mormugao Fort: The fort overlooking the harbor is now in ruins and only parts of the ramparts and a small chapel is visible.
- Pilot Point: It lies at the base of the Old Mormugao fort and affords a fine view of the river Zuari, Dona Paula and the Mormugao Harbour.
Dabolim (4 kms.)
Dabolim has the only airport of Goa, which is a naval aviation base and houses the headquarters of the Indian Navy’s aviation arm, as well as the Museum. During the Navy week (end of Nov. to early Dec.), the base is opened for tourists and spectacular aviation shows are held here.
Bogmalo (8 kms.)
The silvery beach just 4 kms. south of the Dabolim airport is dominated by the huge building of Park Plaza Resort. It has watersports facilities like windsurfing, water-skiing, etc. A small Diving School has been opened here recently, which is one of few PADI- approved institutes in India. It operates from Joet’s Guest House.
Panaji, the capital city of Goa
March 31, 2020 in Goa
Picturesque Panaji, the capital city of Goa sprawls along the southern bank of the river Mandovi and is dominated by a wooded hill, called Altinho. This well-planned town is noted for its beautiful red-roofed houses in a Latin style and a network of streets laid out at right angles, which are lined with Gulmohar, acacia and other ornamental trees. The area between the bus terminal and town center is marked by the Church Square and the Municipal Garden and is indeed the most pleasant part of Panaji.
Secretariat Building (Idalcao Palace): It occupies the site of the castle built by Yusuf Adil Shah of Bijapur in 1510 and is the oldest building in this part of Goa. The Portuguese rebuilt the castle in 1615, to defend the mouth of the river Mandovi. The fort became the official residence of the Viceroy. in 1759, which was shifted to Cabo Raj Bhawan in 1918. In 1843, the Secretariat was shifted here and now it houses the Passport Office.
Statue of Abbe Faria: The bronze statue of Abbe Faria, located next to the Secretariat is an important landmark of Goa. It portrays Faria, regarded as the ‘Father of Hypnotism in an act of mesmerizing a woman patient.
Church of the Lady of Immaculate Conception: This imposing church at the main square in the heart of the town was originally built in 1540 and was rebuilt from the foundation in 1619. It is modeled on the church of Reis Magos and has tall twin towers in Portuguese Baroque style.
Municipal Gardens: The well laid out garden at the city center has an Ashoka pillar at its center
Jama Masjid: The domeless mosque lies just south of Municipal Gardens. It was built by Suleiman Shet and Aba Shet, about 200 years ago and was recently renovated.
Azad Maidan: It is the venue for flower shows and also has a small pavilion where modern Indian sculptures are displayed.
Menezes Braganza Institute & Central Library: It is located in the north-west corner of Azad Maidan and was established in 1871, as a scientific and literary institution. The institute also has a small art gallery, which displays some rare prints and paintings. The Central Library on the lower floor of the building was set up in 1832 and is the oldest public library in India.
State Archaeology Museum It was initially located at St. In and has now been shifted at Patto Plaza. The museum has about 8000 exhibits, which includes sculptures, wooden articles, bronzes, paintings, manuscripts, numismatic collection, etc
Sculpture Gallery: It has Hindu carvings and bronzes dating back to the 4th century. Other places of interest at Panaji are – Astronomical Observatory, Christian Art Gallery, Mahalakshmi Temple, Fontainhas, Chapel of St Sebastian, etc.
Around Panaji
Aguada Fort (18 kms.)
It was built by the Portuguese in 1609 1612, to guard the entry into River Mandovi. Today, it houses the central Jail. A lighthouse is located nearby.
Dona Paula (9 kms.)
It is set on the scenic headland between the Zuari and Mandovi estuaries and is named after Dona Paula de Menezes, whose tombstone can be seen at the chapel in Cabo. The site is associated with various myths of Dona Paula and has earned the epitaph of Lover’s Paradise’. The delightful Dauna Paula Bay, where Goa’s two most famous rivers Zuari and Mandovi meet the Arabian Sea, is an important tourist attraction. One can enjoy a picturesque view of the Zuari estuary and Mormugao harbor. Ferry service is available between Dona Paula Jetty and Mormugao, except during the monsoons. Water-scooter and boat rides here are very popular among the tourists. Near the ferry jetty on a small outcrop of a rock is the beautiful sculpture of a couple (man and woman) named ‘Image of India’, made by Baroness Yrsa von Leistner. On the westernmost tip of the peninsula is Cabo Raj Bhavan, the official residence of the GovernorofGoa. The famous Institute of Oceanography is located nearby.
Miramar Beach (Gaspar Dias) (3 kms.)
The lovely golden beach beyond a small forest attracts a large number of locals and tourists. It is not ranked among the safe beaches for swimmers.
Mapusa (13 kms.)
It is one of the most important towns in northern Goa, especially for the tourist holidaying on the beaches of northern Goa. Mapusa is 45 kms. from Dabolim airport, on the Mumbai-Goa National Highway 17 and is an important road junction. Mapusa Rd. railhead lies on the Konkan Railway.
Old Goa (9 kms.)
The former capital and the principal city of the Portuguese eastern empire was known as the Rome of the East’ and the ‘Pearl of the Orient’. It is set on the southern bank of Mandovi river and is a splendid showcase of the massive and overpowering Portuguese presence in India. Old Goa is studded with majestic cathedrals and monuments, reflecting the rich history and glory of the bygone era. The impressive monuments of Old Goa are considered to be the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in the world. A visit to Goa is rendered incomplete without visiting this religious historic town.
Main Square & Se Cathedral: It is set in the heart of Old Goa and flanked by the Basilica of Bom Jesus to the south and the Se Cathedral, Church of St Francis Assisi and an archeological museum to the north. The imposing Se Cathedral dominates the main square and is the largest church in entire Asia, measuring 35.56 m high on the facade, 76.2 m in length and 55.16 m in width. It is dedicated to St. Catherine and is built in Portuguese-Gothic style, with Tuscan Doric exteriors and Corinthian interiors.
Archaeological Museun? & Portrait Gallery: It is housed in the convent behind the Church of St Francis of Assisi. The building has two floors, the lower one has an Archaeological Museum, exhibiting sculptures and bronzes. The Portrait Gallery on the upper floor has several paintings and portraits of the Portuguese viceroys to India.
Chapel of St. Catherine: The chapel located just west of the Archaeological Museum was originally built in 1510, by Albuquerque to commemorate his victory of Goa on the St.Catherine’s Day.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: This most popular church of Goa is dedicated to Bom Jesus’- meaning ‘good or infant Jesus’. It is located to the south of the main square and houses the uncorrupted remains of the holy apostle St. Francis’ Xavier. The historical church was declared as a World Heritage Monument’ by UNESCO. The construction of the basilica started in 1594 and was completed in 1605. Built-in cruciform plan, it is an excellent example of Jesuit architecture and is an amazing blend of Neoclassical restraint and Baroque extravagance. The magnificent three-tiered facade adorned with intricate carvings, has elements of logic design at the lowest level, Doric in the middle and Corinthian design at the top. It has a disproportionately large central pediment at top and is crowned by a large Jesuit emblem which depicts three letters IHS’, meaning Jesus Saviour of men’.
Viceroy’s Arch: This ceremonial gateway was built by Governor Francisco da Gama (1597 1600), in honor of his great- grandfather Vasco da Gama. It marks the traditional entrance to Old Goa from the Mandovi riverfront and was used as the main entry point for the Portuguese viceroys. The arch was rebuilt in 1954 and stands in regal majesty, although few traces of the original arch are present.
Gateway of Adil Shah’s Palace: It lies to the left of Viceroy’s Arch and is the only surviving part of the magnificent palace of Adil Shah. After the independence of Goa, the Archaeological Survey of India erected this gateway by piecing together the ruins.
Church of St. Cajetan: It was built in 1655, by the Italian friars of the Order of Theatines, on the lines of St Peter’s Church in Rome. Other important churches at Old Goa are-Church of Our Lady of the Mount, Church of Carmelites, Convent & Church of St. John of God, Church & Convent of St. Monica, Chapel of St. Anthony, Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, etc.
Pilar (11 kms.)
It was an important religious and educational center of Christian Missionaries. The Church, Seminary and School perched atop a hillock affords a panoramic view of the Mormugao Harbour, Zuari river and the scenic countryside.
Dr. SalimAli Bird Sanctuary (3 kms.)
The beautiful sanctuary sprawls over an area of 1.78 sq. kms. on the south-western tip of Chorao Island along Mandovi River. It is covered by lush mangrove vegetation crisscrossed by a network of tributaries and inland streams. Although small in size, the sanctuary plays host to several species of local as well as migratory birds and is aptly named after Dr. Salim Ali, India’s most celebrated ornithologist. It can be easily reached from the Ribandar ferry wharf in Panaji. After crossing over on the Ribandar Chorao ferry, one has to walk to reach the sanctuary. Taking a boat tour on a canoe fitted with an outboard motor is very exciting.
