Location : 76 kms from Panaji.
Attractions : Palolem Beach, Mallikarjun Temple (Shristal), Cabo Da
Rama Fort, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Agonda Beach etc.
Best Time to Visit : October to March. |
Tourist Attractions in Canacona
Palolem Beach
Palolem Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches of Goa. A shallow bay
fringed with coconut palms and clear white sands and a lovely village right
behind it, the beach attracts thousands of tourists every year. At the
northern end of this beach is a small island which you can explore at low
tide.
Mallikarjun Temple (Shristal)
From Chaudi drive 5 km down, then turn left to Shristal, 1.5 km away to
reach the Mallikarjun Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Mallikarjun,
an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The Mallikarjun Temple was originally built in
the 16th century and was renovated in 1778. In its interior you will see
more than 60 images of several Hindu gods and goddesses.
Every alternate
year, in March, the temple organizes the Mallikarjun Zatra, which attracts
the Goan devotees and spectators from far and wide. The highlight of the
celebrations is the 'cooking of food on the heads of men.'
Cabo Da Rama Fort
Situated in north Canacona, this fort had been under the control of various
rulers until the Portuguese took it over from the Raja of Sonda. In between
they they lost control over it but regained possession of the fort in 1763.
Later, the fort was occupied by Britishers in 1797. Under the Portuguese,
the fort had military barracks, a chapel and quarters for the commandant and
21 guns for defence.
Though the church within the fort is still in use,
there is little remains of the fort that you can see today. Make a trek up
to the headland of the fort and get the splendid view of sea.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Established in the year 1969, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary occupies an
area of 85.65 sq. km. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is 86 kms away from Panaji
and 10 kms south-east of Chaudi along the Goa-Karnataka border. Goa's second
biggest wildlife sanctuary, Cotigao is not only home to a wide range of
wildlife but also a variety of forests. You can spot a variety of animals
here that include two species of Monkey, Wild Boar, Gaur, Gazelles, Sloth
Bears, Porcupines, Hyenas, Langur, Bison, Deer etc. Best time to view the
wildlife are early in the morning and evening.
Shree Sanusthan Gokarn Parthagali Jeevotham Math (Parthagali) : Founded in
the year 1475 by Swami Shreemad Narayanateertha, the math belongs to the
Gaud Saraswat community. You can see a temple in the math campus and also a
banyan tree called the 'Tapsya Khestra'.
Fresh Water Springs
In Canacona there are two popular fresh water springs which are worth
visiting. The first of these, Puroner water spring is meant to irrigate the
lands, but you can also bathe in the fresh water of the spring. Another
spring, Gogel boasts of crystal clear water. The charming spring will
refresh your soul.
Agonda Beach
If you are in search for some peaceful moments, head towards the Agonda
Beach. Situated 10 kms north of Chaudi, the headquarters of Canacona Taluka,
Agonda has just a handful of accommodation facilities. Far from the crowded
cities, Agonda is perfect place for the solitude seeker. The beach stretches
3 kms and fortunately is not covered by grass sheds.
Cavelosim Beach
Just 11 kms south of Colva, Cavelosim is the last major settlement in
southwest Salacate. You can enjoy the ferry ride from Cavelosim to Assolna.
Places Where You Can Stay
Accommodation is available in hotels, rest houses and guest houses.
Intercontinental the Grand Resort Goa is the only five star hotel at
Canacona. Other popular hotels are the Sun Village (4 Star) and Shangrila
Beach Hotel (3 Star).
How to Reach
By Air : Canacona Taluka is around 60 kms away from Goa's only
airport, Dabolim airport. The airport is well-linked with the flights of
Indian airlines and other private airlines. Private taxis are available from
the airport to Canacona.
By Train : Canacona railway station is connected by direct Superfast
Express trains from Panaji (76 kms), Margao (43 kms), Mumbai and Mangalore.
The railway station of Margao is the nearest major railhead.
By Bus : NH 17 is the main transport artery of Canacona, which runs
across the
Sahyadri and Karmali Ghats towards the state of Karnataka via Chaudi.
Frequent buses are available from Margao to Karwar halt at Canacona. Mumbai
to Goa highway route also connects Chaudi to Margao and Panaji.
Following Goa Tourist Destinations
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