Vasco Da Gama

Vasco Da Gama or also known by its shorter version, Vasco is the most populous and the largest city in Goa. Lying by the mouth of the Zuari River, Vasco was found in 1543 and named after the Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama. This Goan city is utterly different from the other touristy towns. Being one of the major ports in India that exports nearly one-third of India’s ores, Vasco has transformed into the business hub part of Goa.

Vasco da Gama was once the most central node for travellers. But with very few attractions, Vasco gets a small number of travellers. Japanese Garden is one of the main attractions in Vasco. Located on the edge of a hill overlooking the sea, it is a favourite picnic spot among the locals. Bogmalo Beach in the Bogmalo Village of Vasco happens to be one of the cleanest and safest beaches in Goa. If there’s enough time, visit the Naval Aviation Museum located behind the airport which is a great place to see some fantastic vintage aircraft.

Since its foundation, Vasco Da Gama has been one of the most important places for the Portuguese influence in India for about 400 years. Most of the city is a cluster of old landscapes of churches and buildings built in Portuguese style architecture with a background modified by new buildings. The 17th-century Mormugao fort gives an understanding of the historic architecture along with the scenic views.