Besides the sun, sand and sea, India's second smallest state in terms of land area is rich in monuments and historical sites.

The former Portuguese colony existed for about 450 years, until it was successfully taken over by India in 1961.

Portuguese influence resulted in over 400 Catholic churches being built in Goa, and Catholics making up 30 per cent of the population there.

Here's a look at some holiday snaps from our writer's travels to Goa.

The writer's trip was made possible courtesy of Star Cruises, Indian Tourism Board and Air Sahara.