¤ About Canacona
The
place offers some of the most breathtaking scenery against the backdrop of
jungle covered Sahyadri Hills, an extension of the Western Ghat range. Here
pearl white beaches, pretty white-washed churches and distinctive Hindu
temples exhibit a totally new face of Goa. Ceded to the Portuguese by the
Raja of Sund in the treaty of 1791, Goa's far south - Canacona district -
was among the last parts of the territory to be absorbed into the Novas
Conquistas, and has retained a distinctly Hindu feel. The area also boasts
some of the state's most outstanding scenery. Enfolded by laterite headlands
and colossal piles of back boulders.
¤ Major Tourist Attractions
of Canacona» Agonda Beach - This beach is
just perfect if you are in search for some quiet moments to think about your
life. The beach is hardly visited by any tourist and is located 10 km north
of Chaudi, the headquarters of Canacona taluka. The beach is three km long
and is fortunately devoid of any grass huts. The villagers of Agonda are
quiet opposed to any growth in tourism in this part, and probably this is
the reason why there are only two accommodation facilities on this beach.
» Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary - The
sanctuary was established in the year 1969 and covers an area of 86 sq km.
Rated as the second largest sanctuary of Goa, the Cotigao sanctuary is home
to a wide range of animals and plants. Though you will not see any Tiger or
Leopard in the sanctuary, yet there are many other animals that will force
you to keep a good lookout for a glimpse. These primarily include the two
species of Monkey, Gaur and Wild Boar. Other animals that can make an
appearance before you include Gazelles, Sloth Bears, Porcupines, Panthers
and Hyenas. Other attractions of the park include the Jeevottam Partagal
Math which is quiet known for its vedic studies. Also two tribal
communities, Kunbi and Velip are still living in the forest area of the
sanctuary.
» Shree Mallikarjun Temple -
Lord Mallikarjun, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, is the presiding deity of
this temple. It was initially constructed in the 16th century, however
renovation work was carried out in 1778 as well. The temple houses around 60
images of various gods and goddesses in its interior. Another highlight of
the temple are the huge and beautifully carved wooden pillars. The main
festivals celebrated in the temple include Rathasaptami which is a chariot
festival (in the month of February) and Shigmo (in the month of April).
»
Shree Sanusthan Gokarn Parthagali Jeevotham Math - Founded by
Swamiji Shreemad Narayanateertha in the year 1475, the math is located at
Parthagali. The math belongs to the Gaud Saraswat community and is premiered
by the descendants of Swamiji. A few temples can be found in the math
premises. There is also a banyan tree which is regarded sacred enough to be
called the Tapsya Kshetra.
» Fort Cabo de Rama -
The fort, it is believed, draws its name from Lord Rama who supposedly spent
a portion of his exile period here. The history of the fort states that it
was taken over by the Portuguese from the ruler of Soonda. Later, the
Portuguese lost it and gained control of it only in 1763. Still later, the
fort fell into the hands of the Britishers. Today, the fort is not in a very
good position, though a trek up the fort and a view of the sea from there
gives you a feeling of satisfaction. There is also a chapel within the fort
area which is still in use.
¤ AccommodationThe
best places to near Canacona include Palolem and Agonda. One can easily find
quite resonable accommodations at guesthouses near Palolem beach site, while
other can check in the resorts of Agonda.
¤ ShoppingAs
far as the shopping items are concerned, you will get the opportunity to
choose from a wide range of artifacts and momentos. Artifacts made of shell
work, bamboo work, brassware, curios and old coins, trinkets made of stones
and corals, artifacts made of papier-mâché, carved furniture,
and beachwear are some of the popular entries in shopping carts.
Canacona
