Colva Beach
Goa
<div>The Colva Beach lies about 6 Kms to the west of Margao and is the oldest, largest and the most spectacular beaches of South Goa. The beach consists of about 25kms of the fine powdered white sand and is bounded along its coast by coconut palms that stretch from Bogmalo in the north to Cabo de Rama in the south along south Goa's coastline. In the colonial days it used to be the resting area for Margao's high society, who would visit Colva for their "Mundanca" or change of air. Today the area that is reminiscent of the luxurious lifestyle of the aristocratic class has the beautiful houses or villas that dot the village. While taking a stroll on the Colva Beach, silver carpets of bangdde (mackerels) can be viewed sparkling on the golden sands that are laid for drying by the fishermen. Apart from the beach itself, the other main attraction for the tourists is the "Menino Jesus" statue at the local church of Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Piedade ( Our Lady of Mercy) founded in 1630. The church lies in the village square. The church in Colva is famous for its annual religious event-Fama of Menino Jesuse (Child Jesus)-since the 17th century. The predominantly Catholic community celebrates it on the third Monday of October every year. It is one of Goa's most popular feasts and a big fair is held on the occasion at Colva. Although the Colva Beach has never been a hilarious destination for rave parties, Colva's nightlife is livelier and vibrant than anywhere else in south Goa. The two most happening nightspots are down in the dunes south of the beachfront area: splash boasts a big MTV satellite screen and music to match, and a late bar and disco energize and rock crowds around 10.00 pm.<br></div>
