If you thought that all Goa has to offer are virgin beaches and aquamarine blue seas, it's about time you took another look at one of our most enchanting honeymoon destinations!

Ever since Goa was discovered by the westerners in the 60's, it's been known as the land of the 4 S's. Sun, surf, sea and…you know what. Unfortunately this cliché has perpetuated itself to such an extent that Goa's multi-faceted attractions have been cast by the wayside. No one talks of Goa's hills, rivers, waterfalls, game sanctuaries and innumerable Churches, Basilicas and imposing buildings built by the Dutch and the Portuguese. All these put together make Goa a delightful state that unfortunately, is known only for its beaches and easy-going lifestyle. So, how would you like to discover the Goa you never knew existed…with your beloved in tow?

Goa lives in its small cities, towns and villages as much as it does on the beach. To get a real feel of the state, all on has to do is wander around a city or town, stop off at a Church here, pause to admire a magnificent piece of architecture there, and slowly, but surely you'll fall in love with a very different Goa from the one you've seen.

Let's begin our ramble in Panaji, the capital of the state. Panaji is one of India's smallest and pleasantest state capitals. Located on the south bank of the wide Mandovi River, it has been the capital of Goa for over 150 years. Yet the town has preserved its Portuguese heritage remarkably well and parts of it still consist of narrow winding streets, old houses with over hanging balconies, red-tiled roofs and numerous small bars and cafe's, many of which still have signs in Portuguese! !

Chapel at Tiracol Fort

The best way to experience Panaji is to take a walk down its streets or hire a bike and cruise around the city. You can begin your tour with the 400 year-old Portuguese Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception. The Church is renowned for its artistic staircase, while the Lady of Immaculate Conception draws faithful followers from far and wide. Incidentally, there's a huge feast here in December, which is immensely popular with the Goans. Next, hop onto a ferry and cross the Mandovi River to the church of Reis Magos, which was originally founded by the Franciscan Friars and was dedicated to Magi Kings. It was reconstructed in 1771 AD and then considerably improved. Today, the Church is a national monument and is well worth a visit…even if you aren't seeking a favour or two from the almighty.

"It is not the density of churches, but their individual beauty and magnificence that leaves one completely awe-struck."

Leaving Panaji, our Church trail takes us to Old Goa. This part of Goa probably has more churches and basilicas per square kilometre than any other part of the country. However, it is not the density of churches, but their individual beauty and magnificence that leaves one completely awe-struck. The Sé Cathedral is the largest of the churches at Old Goa, and took almost ninety years to complete. The building is Portuguese-Gothic in style with a Tuscan exterior and Corinthian interior. Of the two towers originally built, only one stands today. The existing tower houses one of the largest bells in Goa, which is often referred to as 'Golden Bell' on account of its rich sound. The main altar is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, and old paintings on either side of it depict scenes from her life and martyrdom.

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