Travel Info|World Ventures Tours and Travel

Sensuous silvery sand, breathtakingly magnificent blue beaches, Paradise on Earth, scintillating sea water, rich cultural heritage, rocking night life, exotic sea food, mouth watering foods of every part of India and the World, liquor from country made to scotch, Indian Yoga, Keralan and Thai massage, Water sports, Whole night electronic musical band and orchestras, Tourist friendly atmosphere, suitability to every pocket and taste, every thing is here, what more do you want?

Goa is a tiny state of India situated at its west coast. It was a Portuguese colony until December 19, 1961, for a lengthy span of 451 years. So it has a heritage of European cultures especially Portuguese mixed with Indian cultures. Firstly it was a union territory of India, after many years it became a state of India. Population of Goa is about 1.5 million and area is about 3700 square kilometers adjoining with Maharashtra and Karnataka states of India. In the year 2008, 2 million tourists came here of which 20% were international tourists.

Some beaches of Goa are among best beaches of the World. Most popular among Goa beaches is Anjuna beach. It is located between a mountain and the sea. Anjuna beach hosts whole night parties, rhythmic music, live band and much more. Baga and Calanguta beaches are second among most popular beaches. Other beaches of Goa are Colva beach and Miramer beach. Glistering sand, breeze of coconut and palms, cheap liquor and mouth watering foods, come back tourists here again and again.

Along with beaches Goa has other attractions for visitors too. See Goa Churches, Temples, Anjuna Flea Market, capital of Goa Panaji, Old Goa etc.

Goa is well connected by air with outer World, by ship with Kochi (Cochin) and Mumbai, and within India by rail, road and air.

Situated just 5 km from the capital of Goa, Panaji, Dona Paula beach offers the visitors with a wide range of options for relaxation and enjoyment. Apart from its miles long stretch adorned with swaying palms and fascinating rock formations, the beach is also ideal for adrenaline junkies who crave for some exciting water sports. A sports club located near the beach offers motorboat rides besides other options such as water-skiing, windsurfing, fishing and para-sailing.

According to a local legend, the beach is named after Dona Paula, the daughter of a former viceroy of the region, who committed suicide by jumping from a nearby cliff after she was refused permission to marry a local fisherman.

How to reach Dona Paula Beach

By Air: Dabolim airport is located 35 km away, from where you can hire taxis to reach the beach.

By Rail: Karmali railway station is the nearest rail connection, located 15 km from the beach. The region is well connected to other Indian cities including Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai through regular trains.

By Road: Buses are available for Dona Paula every 15 minutes from Panaji’s Kadamba stand. Alternatively, taxis and motorcycles can also be hired.

Tourist attractions in Dona Paula

National Oceanography Institute: Situated on the beach, the institute was established in 1960 to research marine biology. A marine museum housed inside offers enthralling glimpses of the ocean world. Read the rest of this entry »