Goa attained its statehood on May 30, 1987. It is the smallest Indian state by area.  

About Goa
Located in the western part of India, Goa is one of the most envied travel destinations of India, having long stretches of beautiful beaches.

The top Goa attractions are definitely the beautiful beaches. 

Formerly a Portuguese colony, Goa has some of the loveliest beaches in the Arabian Sea. The beaches of Goa have their own characteristics. While some beaches are secluded , the rest brims with life. It also has fantastic reefs and wrecks for diving and snorkelling. 

Goa’s cities are impressively individual. The capital, Panjim (Panaji), for many, has the edge. Replete with colonial architecture, the city is known for its vibrancy that attains its pinnacle in the annual Goa carnival festival. If you are historically minded, Goa has tourist attractions that include Aguada Fort, Terekhol Fort and Basilica of Bom Jesus (Cathedral of the Good Jesus).  

Goa is also the state of amazing biodiversity, with Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary boasting around hundreds of species of birds, both local and migratory.

Located on the west coast of India, Goa is blessed with a wide array of attractions, beautiful beaches. stunning waterfalls, churches, temples, historical forts, caves and monuments. 
Churches

The churches of Goa are postcards from the past. Visitors to the state will enjoy visiting these well-known churches. 

History of Goa

In 1510, the Portuguese under Albuquerque defeated the ruling Adilshahi Sultan of Bijapur and captured Goa. 

After India attained independence in 1947, Portugal refused to transfer the sovereignty of their Indian settlements to India . As a result India had to launch military campaign and on 12 December 1961, the Indian army annexed the territories of Goa, Damman and Diu into the Indian union. Goa, along with Daman and Diu was declared Union Territory of India. 

On 30 May 1987, Goa attained statehood while Daman and Diu remained Union Territories.

• India’s independence in 1947 instilled a sense of patriotism and confidence in the residents of Goa who were now filled with the desire of throwing of the yoke of foreign rule. 
• After India attained independence in 1947, Portugal refused to transfer the sovereignty of their Indian settlements to India