The capital is Panaji. Its chief cities are Panaji, Old Goa, and Marg o. Goa's eastern part is dominated by the Sahyadri Hills which give way to an area dissected by rivers. The climate is tropical, and the coastal plain consists of beaches fringed with coconut palms. The two largest rivers, Mandavi and Zuari, encircle the offshore island of Goa. Goa is predominantly agricultural, growing rice, coconuts, mangoes, and cashews.
Fishing is important.
Iron ore and manganese are mined, processed, and exported on a large scale. Goa's distinctive architecture and fine beaches make it a popular tourist resort. Many Goanese have Portuguese names and are partly of Portuguese descent as a result of intermarriage between early Portuguese invaders and the original inhabitants. Goa's early history is part legend, mentioned in the Hindu Mahabharata as Gomantak and in the Puranas as Govapuri. It was ruled by a succession of Hindu dynasties until 1472 when it fell to the Muslims.