Chorao: Goa's very own Secret Island

BENGALURU: All you need is your own transport and the secret island of Goa, Chorao will welcome you. The island is accessible by the free ferry from Ribandar or Divar Island. The countryside to the little Chorao village, with its whitewashed village churches and lovely Portuguese homes, all are divine to watch, so pack your back packs and off you to go to this beautiful place. Below are some points which will make you travel as soon as possible! (Credits: holidayiq)

The Largest Island

Chorao Island is the largest island among other 17 islands of Goa. It is a part of the twin river islands of Chorao and Duvar.

Diamond Legend

If mythological tales are to be believed it is said that goddess Yashoda, mother of Lord Krishna once threw away diamonds and those diamonds formed this island.

Historically called 'Chudamani'

The stunning beauty of this island would have made people name this place as 'Chudamani'. In Sanskrit, 'Chudamani' means a "stunning precious stone".

Portuguese colonizers’ history

Several old houses, catholic churches of the 16th century and dozens of newer Hindu temples will welcome you as soon as you enter this village. The village was first to be conquered by the Portuguese, and most of the population was Christians at that point in time.

Portuguese called it 'Chorão'

The Portuguese noblemen named this island as name 'Ilha dos Fidalgos' meant the 'Island of Noblemen'. They found the island, a pleasurable place to live and hence the name. Dom João Nunes de Barreto set up residence in Chorão in 1560, and henceforth it was known as 'Chorão'.

Mangroves

There were beautiful flowers in Chorao which grow in the water and then there are mangroves covering this area, enhancing its beauty.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

The place is a home to Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, which is the biggest bird sanctuary in Goa. There are over 400 species of migratory and local birds here.

Boat transport

The national park has no roads, so visitors have to hop on a willing fishing boat and explore on their own. The birds in the park include herons, waterfowls, crabs and mudskippers.

Read Also: Intriguing Facts About The Indian City Jodhpur

Tata Tiago Plus Makes its Way to the Market Around November