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.