While Goa is reduced to a postcard image of beach huts and partying under neon lights, truly exploring the state requires one to move past the picturesque coastline. The beauty of the region extends beyond the Arabian Sea, and the “soul” of the state lies inland amidst the greenery created by the Western Ghats. Leaving the sands behind, one enters into the cultural richness embodied in the walls of Old Goa’s cathedrals  and the vibrant colors of the streets of Fontainhas. The relaxed pace of life here is defined by susegad, an exclusively Goan concept meaning “contentedness.”

The true soul of the state is seen in the fragrant steam that wafts up from a plate of homemade fish curry rice, the carvings on ancient temples such as Mangueshi, and the warmth with which locals embrace tourists.

Goa embraces the duality of the country’s colonial past, and Indian and Portuguese elements come together harmoniously in local festivals and markets. Whether floating among the mangroves early in the morning or walking among the ruins of a riverside fort, the region offers a rich mixture of nature and culture.

Fast Facts: The First Light