Location: A commercial
town in north Goa, situated in the Bardez taluka, 13 kms south of Panaji, on
the National Highway 17.
Tourist attractions: The Friday market, Church of our
Lady of Miracles, Shrine of Lord Bogeshwar, The temple of Lord Hanuman.
Best buys: All kinds of wares, souvenirs, dry fruits,
spicy sausages, handicrafts, etc.
Best activities: Shopping, site seeing.
Nearby tourist attractions: Anjuna beach, Baga Beach,
Chapora fort, Vagator fort, Sri Kalka mandir, Sri Morji temple.
When to visit: October to March
About Mapusa
Mapusa or Mapsa as pronounced by the locals, is situated 13 kms away from
Panaji. It is the third largest city of Goa and the capital of northern
Bardez taluka. It is known for its famous Friday market,
which
is the hub of shops of all kinds. Local residents and tourists gather here
to shop things ranging from groceries to exotic souvenirs.
With the hustle and bustle of the Friday market, Mapusa has its own Charm.
A small town with fairly modern buildings attracts the attention of all.
Major Tourist Attractions
The Friday market: Mapusa is famous for its Friday market which is a
major attraction for tourists. The market gives a lively look to town. It
surrounds the beach areas of Calangute, Condolim, Anjuna and Baga among
others.
The church of our Lady of Miracles: It is about 2 kms east of market
area in Mapusa. It was built in the year 1594 and is locally known as St.
Jerome. The church was reconstucted in the year 1961. It is famous for its
annual feast and is considered sacred by all communities. Thus, giving a
perfect example of communal harmony.
Other attractions are temples and beaches in the nearby area.
How to Reach There
By Road: The Kadamba terminal is the departure point for long
distance state buses and local services to Calanguate, Baga, Anjuna,
Vagator, Chapora and Arambol. It is situated on the southwest edge of the
town. Private taxis are also available.
Accommodation
One get hotels of all kinds in Mapusa within a walking distance of the
Kadamba Bus stand, but the best budget deal is the GTDC Tourist hotel. It
has spacious, clean rooms, a Goa tourist information counter and a small
Damania shipping . Also look out for various resorts near the beaches.
