A
visitor can be given free entry into Addu Atoll
without the proof of having sufficient funds and a
return ticket, if a written letter is submitted to
the Immigration by a local sponsor, prior to the
arrival.
Detail
»
GLOBAL TERRORISM WARNING
You should be aware of the risk
of indiscriminate terrorist attacks in
public places anywhere in the world. Be
vigilant, and take sensible precautions.
Location: 7-km From Panaji,
North Goa Nearby Attractions: Marmagao Harbour Water Sports: Water Scootering Popularly Known As:The Lover's Paradise
At the place where two of Goa's famous
rivers meet the Arabian Sea is the secluded
bay of Dona Paula with a fine view of the
Marmagao Harbour. 7-km from Panjim, nestled
on the south side of the rocky,
hammer-shaped headland that divides the
Zuari and Mandovi estuaries, this former
fishing village is nowadays a commercialized
resort. This is an idyllic spot to relax and
sunbathe. Water scootering facilities are
also available over here.
The official residence of the Governor of
Goa, Known as Cabo Raj Bhavan is situated on
the westernmost tip of Dona Paula. Along the
road leading to this place lies the ruins of
the small military cemetery the British
built at their brief occupation of the Cabo,
to deter the French from invading Goa.
A Love Story
Named after Dona Paula de Menezes, this
place is called the Lovers Paradise due to a
myth that has been attached to this place.
According one legend the Viceroy's daughter
after facing objections from her family
about her love affair with a poor fisherman
jumped of the cliff.
Another legend says that punished for
captivating Francisco de Tavora, the Count
of Alvor with her charm the Viceroy's
daughter was pushed off a cliff to drown in
the waters below. Her irrepressible spirit
still continues to haunt every visitor with
legends of her lovers. She is even supposed
to have been seen emerging from moonlit
waves wearing only a pearl necklace.
DONA PAULA
BEACH – FAIRS AND FESTIVALS
The festivals of Janmashtami and the Feast
of St. Lawrence are particular to the Dona
Paula Beach. In addition, the beach also has
a colorful water sports festival in
November. The highlights of this festival
are the water scooter and cycle races and
surfing competitions.
Road & By Ferry: Take a bus or
motorcycle-taxi from Panjim or the ferry service
from Marmagao. Buses to Miramar & Dona Paula
leave every fifteen minutes from Panjim's
Kadamba Bus Stand. One can also pick them up
from the steamer jetty, and at various points
along the waterfront.
Places to
Stay:
There are a host of
hotels, guesthouses, and beachside huts available at the beach that cater to the
budgets of different tourists.
Shoping:
There are several shops along the beachside, which sell variety of goods ranging
from eatables to clothes. Fishermen-turned-local vendors also sell straw hats,
lace handkerchiefs, and spices in these shops. Feni and port wine—the two Goan
liquor specialties—are a must buy and local liquor is easily available. Indian
handicrafts and jewelry are available at the Indian Arts Emporium in Dona Paula.
Water
Sports
Tranquil and blue, Dona Paula unravel the ultimate in aquatic sport and fun.Dona
Paula Sports Club, Dona Paula offers some of the best water sports facilities to
the sports enthusiasts including Water-scooter rides, Motor-boat rides,
Tip: To
avoid Bombay
going north
'Poona' is the
quickest bypass
route as Bombay
is best avoided
for travelling
through
USEFUL INFORMATION
Bus, taxi, auto-rickshaw, and motorcycle services are the
available means of local conveyance in the area. A bus or
motorcycle-taxi from Panajim or the ferry service from Mormugao
can be availed of to reach the beach. In fact, buses to Dona
Paula leave every fifteen minutes from Panajim's Kadamba stand.
An interesting mode of conveyance in Goa is the motorcycle taxi.
Unique to this state, these “taxis” carry only one passenger.
However motorcycles can also be hired for personal use, on the
basis of financial guarantee.
