The
Dona Paula Beach is christened after Dona Paula de Menezes, daughter of a
viceroy in colonial India, who threw herself off the cliff, when refused
permission to marry a local fisherman, Gaspar Dias. Dona Paula Beach is also
referred to as "Lovers’ Paradise."
Another legend says that punished for captivating Francisco de Tavora, the
Count of Alvor with her charm the Viceroy's daughter was pushed off a cliff
to drown in the waters below. Her irrepressible spirit still continues to
haunt every visitor with legends of her lovers. She is even supposed to have
been seen emerging from moonlit waves wearing only a pearl necklace.
The Dona Paula Beach is thronged with tourist fascinated with the myth that
Dona Paula is entombed in the Cabo Chapel of the Raj Bhawan and is seen
emerging from the moonlit waves wearing only a pearl necklace. Several
tourists as well as locals hang around, hoping for a glimpse of the
love-lorn girl. Several movies, including Ek Duje Ke Liye have been shot
here and contribute to its being a favorite spot.
History of Popularity
The Dona Paula Beach is named after Dona Paula de Menezes, the daughter of
a viceroy (in colonial India), who threw herself off the cliff, when refused
permission to marry a local fisherman, Gaspar Dias. Dona Paula Beach is also
referred to as . Lovers. Paradise..
The Dona Paula Beach has been an attraction for tourists due to a myth
attached to the place. According to this myth, Dona Paula is entombed in the
Cabo Chapel of the Raj Bhawan and is supposed to be seen emerging from the
moonlit waves wearing only a pearl necklace. Several tourists as well as
locals guided by this myth visit the beach for a glimpse of Dona Paula.
This beach has also been the location for many Indian movies, the most
famous being Ek Duje Ke Liye. Given this dual attraction, Dona Paula Beach
is a popular tourist spot.
Travel Attractions of Dona Paula
There are several places of tourist interest situated near the Dona Paula
Beach.
The Reis Mago
The Reis Mago, one of the oldest churches built in Goa, and the The church
is dedicated to the three Magi (the wise men of the East)-Gaspar, Melchior,
and Balthazar who, according to a legend, were guided by a star to Bethlehem
to greet the newborn Jesus. This church was once the residence of all
dignitaries and a mission center of the Franciscan order.
The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is situated on the western tip of the island
of Choro, along the Mandovi River, about 9 km from Dona Paula Beach. Spread
over 2 sq km, this sanctuary is a mangrove forest. Local and migratory birds
are found here all through the year. However, permission of the Chief
Wildlife Warden is required for visitors.
Festive Moods at Dona Paula
The festivals of Janmashtami and the Feast of St. Lawrence are celebrated
with enthusiasm on the Dona Paula Beach. In addition, the beach also has a
colorful water sports festival in November. The highlights of this festival
are the water scooter and cycle races and surfing competitions.
Shoppers Paradise
There are several shops along the beachside, which sell variety of goods
ranging from eatables to clothes. Fishermen-turned-local vendors also sell
straw hats, lace handkerchiefs, and spices in these shops. Feni and port
wine-the two Goan liquor specialties-are a must buy and local liquor is
easily available. Indian handicrafts and jewellery are available at the
Indian Arts Emporium in Dona Paula.
There are a host of hotels, guesthouses, and beachside huts available at
the beach that cater to the budgets of different tourists.
Fairs and Festivels
The festivals of Janmashtami and the Feast of St. Lawrence are particular
to the Dona Paula Beach. In addition, the beach also has a colorful water
sports festival in November. The highlights of this festival are the water
scooter and cycle races and surfing competitions.
Water Activities
Tranquil and blue, Dona Paula unravel the ultimate in aquatic sport and
fun.Dona Paula Sports Club, Dona Paula offers some of the best water sports
facilities to the sports enthusiasts including Water-scooter rides,
Motor-boat rides, etc.
How To Get There
By Road : Take a bus or motorcycle-taxi from Panjim or the ferry
service from Marmagao. Buses to Miramar & Dona Paula leave every fifteen
minutes from Panjim's Kadamba Bus Stand. One can also pick them up from the
steamer jetty, and at various points along the waterfront.
Dona
Paula Beach Resorts
Dona Paula Beach
Resort
...Other
Goa Beach Resorts
Location : 7-km From Panaji, North Goa
