This
walk is perfect for those who want to enjoy the scenic beauty of Goa.
Location:
Located in the heart of the Salcete Taluka in the southern part of Goa,
Margao ranks second (in the state) as far as its area is concerned.
Arrive:
You will hire a bus or take a taxi and reach Holy Spirit Church.
Walking Time:
30 Minutes
Best Time To Walk:
Anytime
Margao, a typical Goan village, is surrounded by fertile farmland. Margao
is built in the sweeping curves especially around the Holy Spirit Church and
the best walks are apparently in and around the Holy Spirit Church square,
with leafy avenues and some of the most beautiful old houses. You can find
buildings culled everywhere, all smiling mockingly, but still gracefully
depicting an architecture from a different era. Here you would witness the
Baroque Church of the Holy Spirit is a unique piece of architecture dating
back to 1675. Situated near the old market, this church is acclaimed as a
fine example of Indian Baroque with its central dome and towers on either
side. Amidst palm-green surroundings, this pastoral location creates a feast
for the eyes. Walk inside and you will be amazed to see the beautiful
architecture adorned with altars.
For a tranquil environment, cross the Abade Faria Road in front of the Main
Bus Stand to find an oasis in the two gardens - the Municipal Garden and the
Agha Khan Park - branched by a walkway at the heart of Margao. Enjoy walking
besides the lush green surroundings and view a normal hectic life racing
towards their goals. Meanwhile you can enjoy eating the ethnic foodstuff
provided by the nearby stalls.
If you love to see a spectacular view, follow the road from the Largo da
Igreja to the top of Monte Hill. This trekking route is popular among the
local residents for its ever-freshening environment and you can freely relax
here eating peanuts and playing with squirrels.
Then you can head over to the St. Sebastian Chapel, locally known as the
'Pandava Chapel'. Walk to the back side to find a group of ancient caves,
which was once said to be the resting place of the Pandavas, is now
maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
The road to Margao hints its way through dense jungles and coconut palms,
and everywhere are bushes of tropical flowers of the most beautiful and
lively colours. You will find very pretty ancient houses with carved
woodwork and tiled roofs, nuzzled in massive greenery, as if playing hide
and seek with you. While playing with the flowers and bushes, you'll never
come to know that this is the end point of your walk.
