Quick Facts
Location - 15km from Margao in the south Goa.
How To Reach - The nearest airport is Dabolim 28km from the Margao.
The Chandor has its own railhead that is connected with other parts of Goa.
Margao railhead is a busy station, connects with other cities of southern
India. Buses and taxis are easily avaliable from Margao to Chandor.
Where To Stay - There are not accommodation available in Chandor but
it is best to stay in Margao.
When To Go - November to March
Chandor is a lush green village, lies 15km east of Margao. The main reason
of this place become a tourist interest because of imperial colonial
mansions. The mansions were built by Portuguese in their typical
architecture. The place has also ancient history, once ruled by Chandrapur
dynasty, established a fort and a temple within its citadel. This is an
excellent place to observe both modern and ancient aspects of history. The
ancient Chandor was famous as a port city and trade and commerce expanded
here. in the 7th century AD, Chandraditya was lauded as a ruler of the
Konkan by his father Pulakesin II, the great Chalukyan emperor.
Tourists from Margao tend to visit the place because of its picturesque
landscape and grand mansions.
Unfortunately, many of mansions are not allowed for visitors. The grand
Menezes Braganza House is one of the few Goan mansions where visitors are
allowed. The mansion is built in the 17th century by Luis de Menezes and
preserve old rosewood furniture, porcelain tiles from Macao, Italian marble
and mosaic floors. The mansion has also Dr Menezes Braganza's library.
Sights And Activities
Braganza House
The huge mansion almost takes up whole side of Chandor village square. This
17th century. It is now divided into east and west wings, which stretch
outwards from a common front entrance. The large floors of ballrooms are
covered with elegant Italian marble. Belgian glass chandeliers and carved
rosewood furnitures embellishes the rooms.
The East Wing Of Braganza House
This mansion allows visitors from 10am to 5pm, owned by the Perera Braganza
family. The mansion also houses a small family chapel that preserves a
carefully hidden fingernail of St Francis Xavier. This part of the age old
mansion haunts visitors by its stark desolation. The ambiance makes the
place for a somber amusement.
The West Wing Of Braganza House
- This part of the mansion is extensively restored. The small museum
inside the place is crammed with old furniture and Chinese proclaim. The
part also houses the largest library of Goa, once owned by Dr Braganza. Both
homes are open daily, but you may want to call ahead to ensure the owners
will be around. There is no entry fee but owners rely on the contribution
for maintenance and restoration.
Fernandes House - Fernandes House is smaller but more old
and historical than Braganza house. The secret basement hideaway, full of
guns holes and with an escape tunnel to the river, was used by the family to
flee attackers.
Palacio do Deao - Situated south of Chandor, in the
village of Quepem, this 200 year old mansion lures travelers for its
beautiful gardens.
