History of Goa

Goa's history dates back to the 3rd century, when it belonged to the Mauryas, followed by the rule of the Satvahanas, Chalukyas and then the Shilharas and the Kadambas.

In 1312, Goa fell into the hands of the Muslims, whose rule lasted almost 200 years until the Portuguese drove them away. The Portuguese arrived in Goa in 1510 having been unable to secure a base on the Malabar Coast further south due to opposition from the Zamorin of Calicut and the Turks, who controlled trade routes across the Indian Ocean.

Blessed with natural harbours and wide rivers, Goa provided an ideal base for the Portuguese, bent on their quest for control of the spice route from the east and the spread of Christianity. The Portuguese rule was largely uninterrupted up until their final departure in 1961, apart from a brief occupation by the British during the European Napoleonic Wars.

Standing testament to the 451 years the state spent under Portuguese rule, Goa of today is quite distinct from the rest of India, and has a unique cultural heritage that is an exotic blend of East and West.

The state is particularly attractive for MICE groups, small enough to be explored within the space of a short visit, while offering a wealth of treasures just waiting to be discovered. An excellent network of roads exists, inter-linking the state’s villages. The prevalence of Roman Catholicism for so many years under the Portuguese has incubated a form of social and political progressiveness that Westerners think they can relate to.

Although Hindus now comprise the large majority of the population, Goan citizens are more liberal-minded in a way that is unmatched elsewhere in the country.

Goa's separate identity is visible in many ways including its fascinating Latinate architecture, preference for fish and meat rich cuisine (fusing Indian and Portuguese delicacies), and the ready availability of alcohol at low prices. More than 6,000 bars around the state are licensed to serve beer. This is often sold alongside the more traditional beverages of feni (the local hooch) and toddy, a derivative of palm sap.

The cultural diversity and harmonious way of life in Goa is fascinating, especially during important religious events such as Christmas and Carnival, which are celebrated by the 30 percent minority of Christians, and Diwali and Durga puja, rejoiced with equal fervour by the Hindus.