Overview
Vasco-da-Gama: The Busy Port Town of Goa
Vasco-da-Gama, also known simply as Vasco, is a bustling port town in Goa. The villages here still preserve typical Portuguese-style architecture, reflected in the charming houses that transport you to another era. The quaint town must have been an incredible travel experience for the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, renowned for discovering the sea route to India.
Vasco da Gama was the first to discover the sea route to India more than 500 years ago. The region came under Portuguese rule in 1543 and soon developed into one of the busiest ports in India. The Portuguese built a fort at Sada, the ruins of which can still be seen today. The fort enjoyed its most glorious period in 1685 when Old Goa was attacked by the Marathas and the Portuguese shifted their families here for safety. Later, the fort was abandoned when Mormugao was proposed to be declared the capital of the Portuguese Colony of Goa.
Following are the main attractions of Vasco-da-Gama
The Japanese Garden: This is a serene and pristine garden located atop the Mormugao Ridge overlooking the sea. It is well known for the ruins of the Fortaleza Santa Catarina, whose walls run throughout the garden. Visitors can relax while enjoying the sea view or walk down to the small temple located on the shore.
Naval Aviation Museum: This military museum showcases the evolution of the Indian Naval Air Arm over the decades. Inaugurated in October 1998, it is one of the only two Military Aviation Museums in India, the other being in New Delhi. A total of 13 aircraft are on display.
Issorcim Beach: This is a very peaceful and isolated stretch of clean white sand, ideal for spending quiet moments alone. It is far less commercialized than other Goan beaches. Rugged and surrounded by hills on all sides, Issorcim is also one of the only places in Goa—apart from Grande Island—where coral formations can be seen.
Bogmalo Beach: If you want to witness a picturesque sunset, this beach is a great choice. Despite its small size, Bogmalo offers several eateries and accommodation options. Located just 4 km from Goa Airport, it is less crowded compared to beaches like Calangute or Baga.
Mormugao Harbour: One of the finest natural anchorages in India, this harbour is a centre of intense maritime activity. Around 30 cruise ships dock at Mormugao every year. The port also serves as a major export point for Goa’s mining industry.
Excursions from Vasco-da-Gama
Travellers can also visit nearby attractions such as St. Jacinto Island (7 km) and Kesarval Spring (10 km) during their trip to Vasco.
Shopping in Vasco-da-Gama
Vasco is an ideal destination for shopping for designer clothing.
When to reach
The best time to visit Vasco is between late October and April. Visitors can also plan their trip during the week-long Vasco Saptah festival held in August, one of the major festivals of the town.
How to reach
Air: Dabolim Airport is the only airport in Goa, connected to major Indian cities and charter flights from European nations.
Rail: Vasco-da-Gama Railway Station has direct trains to Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai. Several additional train connections to Mumbai and other cities are available from Margao Railway Station.
Road: Buses to Vasco are available from Panjim. Frequent bus services operate from neighbouring states such as Karnataka and Maharashtra.
