Quick Facts
Location - Margao is situated in the Salcete Taluka, 33 kms from
capital Panaji.
How To Reach - Dabolim airport is 28km from Margao. Margao railhead
is busy station, which connects every parts of India. Buses from Panaji runs
to Kadamba Bus Terminus(2km) of Margao.
Where To Stay - There are number of hotels available in the region.
When To Go - October to March
Margao is second largest town in Goa, located 33km from state capital
Panjim. One of the busiest sections of Goa and known as Madgaon among
locals. In ancient times, Margao a place of many Vaishnava sect maths or
temples and called 'math gram'. Current Madgaon is a twisted form of this
ancient historical place. Current Margao is gifted by Portuguese
colonialism, they changed the name and contour of the town and the present
Margao is just a reflection of Portugal colonialism. It was an important
trading port with cargo boats from Arabia and Africa.
Margao has a strong tourism potential as the place is a nice base to reach
to many attractions of Goa. Margao is surrounded by lush green fertile
farmland. The place is also an important religious center. The town is
dotted with dozens ancient temples. Most temples were destroyed in the
Portuguese rule. Margao is also a place of some magnificent churches and old
Portuguese houses. There is also famous 'Closed Market, Old Market,
municipal garden , Anna Fonte(natural springs), the chapel at Monte Hill,
the Hindu and Muslim crematoriums and many other.
Sights And Activities
The Large de Igreja
Famously known as the Church of the Holy Spirit, lies just north of the
Municipal Garden square. The fine architecture of late-Baroque is the prime
attraction of the church. Established in 1675 has a white facade and
interior is embellished with gilt crystal and stucco.
Chandor Village
Chandor is sleepy village adorned with vast fertile rice fields, lies 13km
east of Margao. The village is scattered with nice farmhouses and shady tree
lines. The signature attraction of the village is Perreira
Braganza/Menezes-Braganza house, considered as the loftiest of Goa's
colonial mansions. The mansion has a double storey facade, with 28 windows
flanking its entrance. The mansion has rich collections of old furnitures
and rare Chinese porcelain. Chandor is easily accessible from Margao by bus
or taxi. Also you can travel to Chandragoa station.
Lutolim
The small village is located 10km northeast of Margao, is famous for
colonial mansions. The Miranda house, a stone's throw from the Lutolim
square, is a classical example of Portuguese architecture. Other attractive
mansion is Salvador Costa House. This picturesque landscape is an offbeat
model village cum heritage center
The Old Market
The old market is an excellent market, stretching from the south edge of
the main Margao square to the old railway station. The place is a good place
to shop for some typical Goan souvenirs.
Colva
The famous excursion from Margao is to visit Goa's largest and oldest South
Goa's resort. The place is embellished with colonial style villas and small
fishing huts. The Colva beach is crowded with stalls, snack bars and there
are plenty of hotels around the beach.