The islands of Goa (India). Where are the islands of Goa. What excursions to visit in Goa

Almost all travel agencies, regardless of the season, offer their clients tours to Goa. Some believe that this is the name of a distant exotic country. An ordinary person does not always have time and desire to delve into the subtleties of geography. Meanwhile, tourists are waiting for India. The islands of Goa are in the ocean, not far from its coast.

Paradise on Earth

It so happened that the smallest of all the states of India over the past few decades has become one of the most popular tourist destinations not only in this country, but all over the world. In addition to the luxurious beach holiday on the entire hundred-kilometer stretch of the ocean coast of the state, the tourists are also attracted by the islands of Goa, traditionally considered one of the centers of world diving. For many, they are the visible embodiment of the dream of heaven on Earth.

On the shore of the Indian Ocean

The well-known coast of the Indian state of Goa became in the sixties of the last century. It was this part of the globe that was chosen as a place for pilgrimage by numerous hippies from America and Europe. And they can be understood - it is not so easy to find in the world another, equally paradisiacal corner for escape from civilization. In this country of eternal summer and sun it was possible to exist for as long as you want, without thinking about tomorrow and without straining. But since then many years have passed. And for the past half a century, thanks to its many kilometers of ocean beaches, Goa has received the status of an internationally recognized resort. Much investment was invested in the business, thanks to which the tourist infrastructure of the modern level was built on the coast of the state. The islands of Goa are affected by the influence of civilization to a lesser extent.

Far from shore and at depth

There are eight islands off the coast of the state. But when the islands of Goa are mentioned, most often only three of them are meant - St. George, Netrani and Grand. They are the most popular among tourists and sports divers. The rest are known less. Rest on the islands of Goa is usually associated with familiarity with the underwater world. These areas of land in the Indian Ocean are particularly attractive for fans to dive to the depth, which is due to a number of circumstances. From a comfortable subequatorial climate for a person to a large number of commercial sailing ships, which had the misfortune to sink in these waters in previous centuries. And of course, the enchanting colorfulness of the underwater flora and fauna is also important, which exceeds the wildest expectations.

What does a person look for in depth?

It is interesting to note the fact that, after hitting the islands of Goa, even those who had not previously thought of it are diving. The situation here has to do with it. Athletes-divers in the Indian Ocean often become even ordinary office staff. So there were circumstances. The islands of Goa on the map are hardly distinguishable, but on the whole of the natural and climatic conditions they can be considered unique. Only the transparency of the waters off the coast exceeds 25 meters. And in the Indian Ocean, a very stable temperature, always within 25 degrees Celsius. And the one who plunges into this water can enjoy communication with the inhabitants of the depths without any problems, of which there are a myriad. But the most bright against the background of colorful corals are angelfish, fish-hedgehogs, tuna and moray eels. A lot of turtles, dolphins, crabs, cuttlefish and shellfish. There are even sharks.

St George Island

But with all the fascination of communication with the underwater world, one should approach it with caution. The ocean does not tolerate a disparaging attitude. Diving to depth requires a certain level of athletic training. On the island of St. George there are several bases for diving enthusiasts. Here, experienced instructors in a short time will help you master the basic skills of staying in a submarine environment, even for those who (skills) do not exist at all. For an amount equivalent to forty dollars, you will be able to undergo an initial diving course. It takes one day and is reduced to a sequential complication and development of deeper dives. Of course, mastering the next steps of this skill takes a little longer and requires additional expenses. And yet, going to St. George and other islands of Goa, you can expect good fishing. It is perfectly combined with diving.

Pirate treasures - a myth or a reality?

For many centuries of navigation in the Indian Ocean, where the islands of Goa, many ships sank. For centuries, traditional trade routes have passed through this area of the water area. According to the most conservative estimates, hundreds of ships are resting at the bottom of the Indian Ocean, for various reasons they have not reached the port of destination. The number of them greatly increased during the First World War. Need I say that this circumstance attracts a variety of hunters for underwater treasures from around the world? However, one should think carefully before recklessly joining these fearless (and often "crazy") people. Such diving is not safe for everyone, even the most experienced divers. This is a kind of exam for the highest sports qualification. And often it involves a risk to life.

What should I know when I go to India?

First of all, it should not be a surprise for anyone that India is a visa country. But nobody can remember problems with getting a visa. The exchange rate of the national currency (rupee) is about 60 units. For the US dollar. The coast of the Indian Ocean, where the state of Goa is located, lies in the zone of the subequatorial climate. It is favorable for the average person even during the rainy season, which occurs here in the summer months. The average level of prices in Goa is relatively low. Many prefer to go here without intermediary of tourist structures and rent housing practically for pennies from local residents.

What remarkable places to visit

What else is important not to miss when on the coast of Goa? Excursions to the islands are a must for the program of stay, but there are many sights in the mainland of the Indian state. The cultural heritage of Goa was formed under the influence of two differently directed trends. Here, the spiritual heritage of Hinduism and the powerful European, primarily Portuguese, influence were closely intertwined. The period of Portuguese colonization is considered by many as the cultural flourishing of this territory. Traces of characteristic colonial architecture and today can be found all over the coast of the Indian state of Goa. As a rule, these are Catholic cathedrals erected by Portuguese missionaries. They are quite peacefully neighbors with Hindu temples. First of all, we should pay attention to such objects as Shanta-Durga in Kavlema, Mahalsa in Mardola and Mangesh in Mangeshi. It is interesting that the local population notes with great joy both Catholic and traditional Hindu holidays. The natural parks of Goa deserve special attention - there are six of them here. For the most part, they are located deep in the state, in the foothills of the Sahiadri. A special delight for those who still managed to get to it, is the Dudhsogar waterfall. Its height exceeds six hundred meters. The sight fascinates! Powerful streams of water, sparkling with all the colors of the rainbow water dust make an indelible impression!