Located on the west coast of India, Colva is a coastal village in Salcete on the southern end of Goa`s long, continuous strip of coastline. Extending from Bogmalo in the north to Cabo de Rama in the south, part of the Colva beach consists of about 25 km of silvery white sand surrounded by coconut palm trees. Few years back in Goa, Colva was a simple village housing the fishing community.
Tourism in Colva Beach
With the advent of numerous hotels and resorts in the nearby areas, the Colva beach has become a tourist destination. The beach offers delicious Goan cuisine along-with various pubs and bars. It is also known for its Portuguese significance with a number of buildings which speak of history, elegance and architecture.
Colva is well known for its white washed Our Lady of Mercy Church founded in the year 1630. Also known as "Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Merces" the church houses the miraculous statue of Menino Jesus (Baby Jesus) which is believed to have healing powers. This was founded by a Jesuit missionary. The history surrounding the church is fascinating. During the month of October, the Menino Jesus statue is kept for public viewing for the annual fair and the beach becomes hugely crowded by pilgrims visiting the church. A procession is carried out on that day where the image of Infant Jesus is brought down for veneration by the devotees.
Another major attraction at Colva Beach is the bull fight that is organized in the nearby village. Without any proper safety or barricade, adrenaline runs high and the thrill for the sport is elevated. These fights are organized during the period of October to May which attracts throngs of tourists. April is the time of the Beach Bonaza Fair which is held on successive Sundays on Colva Beach. It is a time for fun and festivities when the people enjoy the sumptuous food; dance along to the lively music and socialise.
The Colva Beach is the most visited spot in South Goa, and being the most popular spot has made the beach unclean and not so well maintained. Now, the Union of Tourism Ministry has made Colva beach a part of the India"s Iconic Tourist Sites Project. Colva beach is the only beach that will be a part of this project. It joins 11 other tourist sites across the country that is already chosen for development. Parameters for selection included footfall, the popularity of the location, and connectivity to the tourist site among others. The locals of the community are urged to be a part of this development and make it successful.
Visiting Information for Colva Beach
The nearest airport is the Dabolim Airport which is 21 km away; the closest railway station is the Mandgoan junction. One can reach Colva beach from Margao by road.
