Tribes of Goa form an integral part of the rich cultural heritage of the state. Tribal communities of Goa have managed to retain their ancient and indigenous ways of life and traditional practices, customs and way of living. The chief tribes of this smallest state of India are Gowdas tribe, Kunbi tribe, and Dhangars. Like some other states of India, Goa too was invaded by the Aryans. Some of the tribes of Goa are considered as the original settlers of Konkan region much before the invasion of the Dravidians. There are no concrete records regarding the origin or how they have migrated to Goa. Goa has the lowest proportion of Scheduled Tribes that accounts for around 0.04 percent of the total population.

Gowdas tribe is the largest tribal group inhabiting the interior villages of this state. In their society, women enjoy a high status and rights. Further, they also play a prominent role in the economic matters. The major tribal communities of Goa live in isolated villages. Their indigenous lifestyles, traditions, ceremonies, customs, religious beliefs, practices and superstitions form a significant part of the culture of the state. The tribes of Goa differ from one another in terms of dress pattern, rituals and customs.

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