1. Calangute and Baga Beaches, Goa
Introduction
Calangute is about 16 km from Panaji and is situated in Bardez taluka. Popularly known as the "Queen of
Beaches", it is one of the most famous and commercialized of all beaches in Goa. This beach is among
the top ten bathing beaches in the world. Baga is also the part of a 30 km long stretch of beach all along
the west coast of Goa by the Arabian Sea. It is 10 km towards the west of Mapusa and is considered as
an extension of Calangute beach.
Location
Calangute and Baga are very near to the shores of the Arabian Sea in north Goa. Arpora-Nagoa, Saligao
and Candolim surround these villages in the Bardez taluka. It is a mere 15 km away from Panjim.
Key Attractions
When at the beaches of Calangute and Baga, you will not be short of places of tourist attractions.
Besides the beautiful beaches, there is lot for you to explore in the small villages of Calangute and Baga.
The Beaches
Enjoy at the beaches to make iyour visit a memorable experience to last a lifetime. Bask in the glory of
sun, go on long walks on the beaches, take a dive into the water, make sand houses; this is how you
spend your holidays on these beaches. Try out the local fresh seafood prepared in front of your eyes or
the local drink, feni.
The St. Alex Church
The Church of St. Alex stands tall with its two beautiful towers and a stupendous dome crowned on the
façade. As you enter the church, you will realize the rich display of symmetry of its architecture and
alluring altars. This people of Calangute celebrated the fourth centenary of this parish church in the year
1996.
Kerkar Art Complex
The Kerkar Art Complex is a popular center for exhibitions and displays of arts and crafts of local artistes.
It is one of its kinds of exhibition hall on a beach. You can witness the performances of the cognoscenti's
of Indian classical music and dance and audience various concerts on Thursdays and Fridays.
Medicinal Springs
A little away from the beach, a narrow road leads you past the Bom Viagem Convent. Within the
surroundings of the cashew-covered foothills, you will find the springs at Mottant. It is an ideal picnic
spot. The water of the spring is considered to have medicinal powers.
2. Baga Retreat House
the Baga Retreat House is on the top of Baga Hills commanding the view of the village and the Arabian
Sea. It is dedicated to St Francis Xavier who is better known as the Casa de Retiros.
Water Sports
Water sports like Parasailing, water skiing and wind surfing begins in the afternoon till sunset on the
beaches. You can try your hand on these water sports.
Climate
Goa experiences a moderate climate throughout the year without major variations in the temperature.
The temperature rises from 24°C to 32.7°C during summers and drops from 21.3°C to 32.2°C during
winters. You may require light woolens for the month of December and January, but light cotton clothes
are suited for summers. The season of monsoon is from June to October and receives almost 320 mm of
rainfall. Best time to visit Anjuna is from November to February.
History of Popularity
Calangute gained popularity among tourists of Goa in the '60s and early'70s. The beach with its pristine
beauty, tranquility and golden sands was discovered by the hippies, who helped in popularizing the
place and brought a lot of European tourists.
Tradition and Dress Code
One thing common to all the villages of Goa is the presence of at least one church with a square in front
of it. It is a place where people meet and exchange news and views with each other at the sunset. The
old men and women wear dark suits and dresses and the younger women cover their heads with scarves
go to church in the mornings particularly on Sundays. Everyone, dresses suitably is allowed inside the
churches of Goa.
Shopping
You can look around for souvenirs and gifts to take back home from the local beachside shops as well as
the markets.
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest airport is at Dabolim, which is 29 km from Panaji.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is at Karmali, which is 11 km from Panaji and 35 km from Margao.
By Road
3. Calangute Beach is at ten minutes drive from Mapusa and thirty minutes from Panaji. There are regular
bus services as well as private taxis to and fro to the beaches and back to the city.
Dos and Don'ts
Indian law does not permit for Drug Trafficking. Anyone who has committed the breach of the law could
be sentenced a lifetime imprisonment.
Nudity is strictly against the local norms and traditions of Goa. Indulging or encouraging it can be a
source of embarrassment for the local population.
Swimming unassisted can be dangerous at most of the beaches because of the strong undercurrents.
Consulting the lifeguards is a must before venturing out into the waters.
Source: http://www.tourismofgoa.com/beaches/calangute-baga-beach.html
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