Vasco
da Gama is the biggest town of Goa. Majority of Goa's population resides
over here. The layout of the city of Vasco da Gama is well planned and is
very clean. The architecture is aesthetically pleasing and it has some very
old structures existing with modern buildings. Vasco da Gama is the commercial hub of Goa and many important economic activities take place here. The town is industrialized and has an important seaport. The Mormugoa Harbor is a very important commercial center and is the core from which ship vessels are sent off to other countries, which trade in minerals such as iron ore and spices. It is a natural harbor which docks ships from almost all over the world.
Vasco da Gama Attractions
Bogmalo Beach
The Bogmalo Beach is the most popular beach of Vasco, which is a major tourist attraction as it offers some lip-smacking local cuisines in makeshift shacks. The Bogmalo beach is clean and not too much crowded. The water at the beach is reasonably safe for swimming and is also approved for Open water diving courses. Some of the main attractions at the beach are the guided dives to shipwreck sites and coral beds off the coast.
Naval Aviation Museum
Located at the Bogmalai Beach near Dabolim, the naval museum provides a rare glimpse of the origins and evolution of Naval Aviation Wing. One of the main attractions at the museum is the aircraft exhibit. The main indoor galleries of the museum lie at the right. It is interesting to see that the entrance of the naval museum is modeled after the interiors of an Aircraft carrier and once you enter the building, you are faced with various exhibits ranging from armament and weapons to sensors and equipment. There are separate rooms that illustrate flight safety measures and equipment. There is a large gallery at the end of the building, which is home to a massive collection of historical photographs related to Indian Naval Aviation.
The town is also famous for the ancient Saint Andrews church, which is almost 400 years old and is a picturesque monument. Another place that one should not miss visiting is the Japanese Garden, which is known for its beauty and charisma. There is a temple of Goddess Durga in this garden and one can listen to the story of the temple as said by the locals while taking a stroll in the soft sands on the beach near the garden.
How to Reach Vasco da Gama
By Air
Vasco da Gama is well connected with Dabolim airport, which is about 4 Km from Vasco.
By Road
Vasco da Gama is well connected by road to other towns and cities of Goa. There are regular buses from Panjim and Margao to Vasco.
By Rail
The railway station is located at the center of the town. A number of trains that connect destinations in neighboring states depart from here.
