Things to See in Goa

Standing on the headland overlooking the mouth of the Mandovi River, Fort Aguada is one of several ruined coastal forts in Goa and occupies a dramatic hilltop position. Its strategic value is confirmed by the fact that it was never taken by force. A popular spot to watch the sunset, the Fort commands uninterrupted views north and south. Today the main point of interest is the bastion that stands on the hilltop itself.

The best known of Chandor's superb colonial mansions is Braganza House, which takes up one complete side of Chandor's village square and dates back to the 17th century. It's now divided into east and west wings - two separate houses - which stretch outwards from a common front entrance. The exterior facade of the mansion, with 24 windows, is the longest in Goa.

Named after the late Dr Salim Moizzudin Abdul Ali, India's best-known ornithologist, this little wetland sanctuary was proclaimed by the Forest Department in 1988 to protect the birdlife that thrives here and the mangroves that have grown around reclaimed marshland.