Here Are Some Lesser Known Facts About Goa That Will Amaze You

Goa is the favourite beach destination of Indians. It is one of India's most lively places, with trance parties, a thriving nightlife, and a plethora of other activities. But that isn't all there is to Goa. Culture, legacy, and even a wonderful dose of spirituality abound in the area. The location has a rich history and numerous fascinating facts that will astonish you. The place has history and many interesting facts that will amaze you. Learn all about it here:

History Of Goa

The history of Goa can be traced back to the third century BC. Goa has been ruled by a number of rulers since then, including the Portuguese. The Portuguese arrived in India in 1498 and created a trade colony with the sole purpose of dealing with spices and cotton and ended up ruling the state. The Portuguese admiral Alfonso de Albuquere defeated the governing Bijapur kings on behalf of a local sovereign, and eventually became the state's ruler.

Goa was ruled by the Portuguese for 450 years until being liberated and becoming part of India on December 19, 1961.

Lesser Known Facts About Goa

1. Goa: Best Placed State

Because of its infrastructure, the Eleventh Finance Commission of India named Goa the best-placed state. India's National Commission on Population rated it as having the best quality of life in India (based on the commission's “12 Indicators'').

However, there are still infrastructural requirements, which need to be given priority as their population keeps growing.

2. Goa, Daman And Diu Were Joint Union Territory Of India

The union territories of Goa, Daman, and Diu were managed as one until 30 May 1987, when Goa was granted statehood, making Daman and Diu a separate union territory. In 1961, the 25th state of India's Union states was freed from Portuguese rule.

Daman and Diu remained outposts of Portuguese overseas territory until 1961, when they, along with Goa, became part of India.

3. A Portuguese Settlement

Although India gained freedom in 1947, Goa remained a Portuguese colony from 1510 until 1961. For 450 years, Goa served as the capital of the Portuguese Empire east of the Cape of Good Hope.

After a group of Portuguese adventurers, including Vasco de Gama, discovered a new path to India in the late 15th century, Goa became the ideal location for the Portuguese intent to defeat the East's manipulation of the spice route.

Although there aren't many Portuguese in Goa these days, their culture has had a significant impact on the state's culture. The houses , govt buildings in panaji are free architectural examples of Portuguese still in use.

Due to the long Portuguese influence over the state, Goa's culture is a wonderful amalgamation of both Indian and Western culture, which still stands out.

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4. Forest Quality Third Best In Country

According to the India State of the Forest Report (ISFR) 2021 of the Forest Survey of India, Goa has the third highest per hectare growing stock in forest in the country, behind Kerala and Uttarakhand.

Also, over 33 percent of Goa is covered under government forests.

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5. Only State With Uniform Civil Code

So far, Goa is the only state in India where all religions and sects, including Hindus, Muslims, and Christians, are subject to the same laws when it comes to marriage, divorce, succession, and other such matters.

6. Smallest State In India

Goa is India's smallest state, with a total area of 1,429 square miles. It's only slightly larger than Devon, but has a coastline that stretches for 99 miles.

Did you know about these facts about Goa? Do share which fact about Goa fascinated you the most. For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi!