GT Digital
The iconic, white Mãe de Deus Church in Saligao stands tall amidst the village greenery. The stunning 160-year-old church, with its Gothic-style architecture, is the centre of local life.
The Saligao Spring (zhor) is hidden away in Salmona. Once parched, it received a new lease of life a few years ago, and is now a lifeline for villagers, allowing them to enjoy nature’s offerings.
Aula, the government school, was the first of few schools established by the Portuguese. Fondly called shala, it now features a post office, and cultural centre, too.
The tinto, or marketplace, is the heart of village life. Till date, it remains more than a trading spot, with villagers coming together to share stories, laughs and life’s little moments.
Referred to as 'White House' by Saligaokars, the home-cum-office of Goa’s late chief minister and surgeon, Dr Wilfred De Souza, was once frequented by countless visitors. It is now a silent reminder of how times change and people become a mere memory.
This picture-perfect road, or bandh, passes by a crematorium and cemetery that are in proximity to each other -- a unique aspect of this village. Lined with coconut trees against a backdrop of fields, it has more tourists than locals, today.
No visit to Saligao is complete without a stop at Hotel Samrat, which offers some of the best ros omelette around. This Goan delicacy keeps visitors coming back for more, especially for an enjoyable Sunday breakfast.
Quaint narrow lanes add to the village charm, and many movies have been shot here. Traditional Goan homes peek through, giving the village its unique character, beckoning visitors to wander and explore.