Though small by Indian standards, Goan towns are important as cultural, business and tourist centres, where most of the population find some sort of employment and are dependent on them for livelihood directly or indirectly. Towns linked by a strong communication system add to the overall development of the state.
Towns & Cities

The State comprises of 11 talukas with 15 towns (Municipal areas) and 429 revenue villages. Descriptions of some of the important towns of Goa are given here.

MAPUSA

An important commercial town in North Goa, it is situated in Bardez Taluka on the National Highway 17 (13 km from Panaji). Weekly Friday bazaar is held at the modern streamlined Mapusa market and attracts large crowds from all over the State.

MARGAO

It is the headquarters of South Goa District and is considered as the main commercial city of Goa. Located in Salcete Taluka (35 kms. from Panaji), it is famous for its ancient cultural heritage and traditional customs of the people of Goa.

PANAJI

A small and charming city located in Tiswadi Taluka on the left bank of river Mandovi, Panaji is the Capital of the State and headquarters of North Goa District. Miramar beach, full of soft golden sand, girdled with palm trees, facing the blue Arabian Sea, is just 3 km. from Panaji. Having the oldest Municipality in Asia, the city is considered as a posh residential paradise with areas like Altinho, Campal and Fontainhas. Miramar also is lately developed with beautiful houses and bungalows, built in modern and Latin style, with well laid gardens, statues and avenues lined with gulmohars, acacia, rain trees and other ornamental trees. Most of the professional colleges are located in and around Panaji City.

PONDA

In the heart of Goa, 30 Kms. from Panaji, lies this picturesque town of Ponda. It is fast developing as a cultural and commercial centre. Most of the ancient Hindu temples are located around this town.

VASCO DA GAMA

Once a modern, well-laid city, across the Zuari river in South Goa, (30 kms. from Panaji), it was geometrically planned by the Portuguese. Close-by is the Goa airport and the internationally famous natural port of Mormugao. It has also the oldest railway terminus. Mormugao harbour (4 Km.) is one of the finest natural anchorages on the West Coast of India. Passenger and Cargo ships call here from all over the world.Some other towns/villages like Bicholim, Calangute, Sanquelim, Valpoi, Canacona, Navelim, Pilar, etc. are also fast developing as commercial centres.