Located in the midst of Goa, Chandor is beautiful, village wherein you can explore way which Catholic Indian population lives in Goa. This small village is located in South Goa district, Salcete sub-district, in the Indian state of Goa on the banks of the river Kushavati, 10 km east from Margao.
Lets begin with scenic journey of Chandor and sightseeings nearby.
Historical
Goa state was ruled by Kadamba dynasty from 960 AD to 1356 AD. During 11th Century, Chandrapur (now called as Chandor) was their capital. Therefore, Chandor has historical significance in history of Goa. Even after independence, excavations were done at Chandor and many such remains of earlier dynasties found. These can be seen at Archaeological Museum of Goa (Located in Old Goa, Velha).
What will you see in Chandor?
Chandor has majority of Catholic Christian population. Of course, although they are Indian, they have influence of Portuguese rule which can be noticed till now. There are two major spots to see in Chandor.
1. Menezes Braganza Pereira House
2. Fernandes House
These two are portuguese upper class houses still well preserved and they are one of the most beautiful for treasures they inherit since more than 450 years ago.
1. Menezes Braganza Pereira House
(Entry fees: 150 Rs per person)
This house is more than 450 years old now. It is built in three different era. 450 years ago, 350 years ago and 300 years ago. Family of Braganza was most influential at time times during Portuguese rule. This family is having its separate space for 6 graves in cemetery. After 3 years, whoever was dead, the bones of that person are digged out and kept in tower situated just next to Church of Chandor (which is just adjacent to this house). This house has old furnitures, pottery from China, Korea, Japan and even India, distinguished silver ornaments, classic beds. Entrance of house is welcomed by garden around it and then after climbing around 20 stairs, you will reach main house door. Guest Hall, Library room, Dance room, Dining room, Kitchen, and bedrooms are significant rooms in this house. Most significant feature of house is that it has gun hole around each door to protect house from attacks. Following are snapshots of the house. Library room of house has almost 5,000 leather bound books collected by Luis de Menezes Braganza (1878-1938), a reputed journalist, renowned for the part he played in Goa’s independence movement.
2. Fernandes House
This house is located near St. Tiago Chapel, Chandor. Located on the road itself, it is significantly seen in Chandor roads. A kilometre east past the church, and open to the public (Entry fees: 100 Rs. per person), is the Fernandes House, whose original building dates back more than 500 years, while the Portuguese section was tacked on by the Fernandes family in 1821. The secret basement hideaway, full of gun holes and with an escape tunnel to the river, was used by the family to flee attackers.
Apart from these, you will also get chance to see Sunrise behind St. Anthony Chapel which can be beautiful aspect of the day !
Where you will stay in Chandor?
Houses in Chandor (majority of Christians) are beautifully and very bright coloured. Normally, we do not prefer colours such as dark pink, red, bright yellow (similar to Alphonso Mango), Dark Green. However, these colours are quite common here. Many house owners of this village stay abroad and only family members stay at Chandor.
As such Chandor is small village and there are no options of hotels to stay here. However, St. Anthony and St. Francis Xavier Holiday Home is excellent option for stay. These are twin catholic type of bunglows. In front bunglow (pink one), owner of house stays and at back (yellow house) villa, stay option is provided.
This rustic old villa offers a fantastic Portuguese experience, and at that price, is a no-brainer. The location is ideal for traveling around South Goa. Remedios is a prompt and courteous host, and takes good care of you. Madam has helped us a lot in planning our South Goa Trip. She is nice and caring lady and takes care of everything you need during your stay. Beds are clean, neat and also kitchen with induction stove and fridge is provided so you can cook even during stay. It is like home away from home.
This house is located just opposite of St. Anthony Chapel and bus stop is also nearby.
Where to eat?
Market of Chandor is near to Church. At market, you will get banana, vegetables, and even non vegetarian options. Sausages (non veg) are available for sale easily. If you do not wish to cook at your home stay location, then you have to visit Hotel Monami (Veg + Non veg). They are open from morning 6 am to 3 pm and serve delicious Parottha – Bhaji, Puri – Bhaji, Pakodas, etc. Rose flavoured tea is excellent here. Cost of 3 people of breakfast will be around 130 Rs.
Dinner options are limited here. Hotels such as flames, and some other are there in market are having bar options which might not be suitable for families.
People
People of Chandor are very religious. They go to prayers every two times a day in Church or Chapel and even have idols of Jesus Christ and many saints installed in house. Even in front of every house, you will see cross which is strategically located at entrance.
So why are you waiting for ! Go and experience a life different from traditionally you do in Goa !
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