Goa

Goa, India's smallest state lies on the coastal side of the Western Ghats. Hugely influenced by the Portugeese, Goa has now become one of the must see tourist hot spots in India and around the world. Some of the wildest New Year's parties are held here. Old Goa, or Velha Goa is the center of activity for Christianity in Goa and is a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE. Tourism is the biggest industry though mining is also a huge contributor to the economy. The Marmagoa port in Goa handles 40% of all iron ores exports from India. Drive along the Londa - Panjim route and it is impossible to miss the 24 hour mining industry and the thousands of trucks ferrying the ores. Goa is a mix of bustling industry, 400 year old churches, hundreds of temples, beaches filled with foreign tourists, coconut trees, port wine, ships and forts.