November 25th, 2009 | 
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State Archaeological Museum
From Brahmanical sculptures to medieval coins, stamps and portraits; the Archaeological Museum of Goa is one of the ideal destinations for those enthusiastic about ancient history. Tourists get to explore the remnants of Portuguese rule and small items that provide a glimpse into Goa’s rich cultural heritage. From great paintings of Vasco da Gama to Alphonso De Albuquerque the museum also has ancient artefacts of the other periods. The gateway is decorated by a towering statue of Alphonso De Albuquerque. The 3-6m high bronze statue of Alfonso de Albuquerque greets the guests at the entrance.
The Archaeological Museum Goa has been operational from the year 1964. It was rearranged and reorganised fully during the CHOGM Retreat in Goa during 1982. A lengthy hall lying to the retired side of the gateway to the Museum was converted into two galleries by laying a reinforced concrete floor with a newly built wide staircase at the extreme west to facilitate access to the first floor.
Museum of Christian Art
The Museum of Christian Art symbolizes an effort to showcase the richness of Indo-Portuguese Christian Art from Goa. It highlights a part of Goa’s heritage that is badly neglected and if not preserved, will be lost forever. The Museum of Christian Art showcases the wealth found in the various churches built by the Portuguese in Goa as well as some donations by private families. Intended to be a representative collection, every object displayed in the museum, reflects the immense wealth of the churches of Goa.
Asia’s first Museum of Christian Art was initially located at the Seminary of Rachol, Salcette, Goa, where it was inaugurated in 1994. The Museum is now relocated within the Convent of Santa Monica, Old Goa, in the vicinity of world Heritage Monuments.
Pilar Museum
Set on a small hill just south of the capital city of Panaji, along the National highway NH17 to Margao and Vasco, the Pilar Seminary is worth visiting for its quiet ambience, the small but interesting one-room museum and the spectacular views of the countryside from its location. The Capuchin monks founded the Seminary in 1613. They established a centre of learning along with the Church, which was named after Our Lady of Pilar, whose statue they had brought along with them from Spain. Around a small garden inside, there are cloisters decorated with seventeenth century frescoes. There is an interesting pictorial depiction of the history of the world, drawn by a missionary in the 1940s and a reredos with Fransiscan saints in the niches. The chapel on the first floor of this building is surrounded by some magnificent stained-glass windows, hardly seen anywhere in Goa. And if you can make it up to the roof terrace which is two floors higher, you are rewarded with some spectacular views of the Zuari river towards Vasco and also of the rice fields and coconut plantations of the Tiswadi taluka.
Naval Aviation Museum
Inaugurated on October 12, 1998, the Naval Aviation Museum is divided into two sections, an out-door exhibit and a number of indoor galleries.
Starting off with a humble collection of six vintage naval aircrafts, the museum has metamorphosed into India’s second largest aviation museum with twelve aircrafts on display. Among the aircraft collection, the piece-de-resistance is the giant Lockheed L-1049G Super Constellation borrowed by the Navy from the Indian Air Force. Other aircrafts include Sea Harrier, Sea Hawk, Sealand, Alize, Dove, Vampire and Hughes. If the outdoor exhibits swell your heart with pride, the indoor galleries are no less impressive. Step inside and massive replicas of aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Viraat will welcome you. The weapons and armaments galleries display a variety of bombs, torpedos, sensors and cannon used by naval aircraft over the ages. The archive section features a photo gallery where old photos are on display profiling the Naval Aviation History from 1959 onwards in pictures and footnotes.
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Cabo Raj Niwas
Built in 1540 AD opposite Fort Aguada on the south headland of the river Mandovi, the Cabo (the Portuguese word for cape) Palace fortress housed the Franciscan monastery, which later (1594 AD) became the official residence of the Governor of Goa. The beauty, solitude and uniqueness and well-planned features are some of the main attractions of the Cabo. A small Chapel was constructed at the very end of the mansion dedicated to Our virgin lady of The cape (Nossa Senhora do Cabo). It also served as a landmark for the seafarers.
The official reception area consists area consists of a large hall called the Darbar Hall, used at the time of receptions and swearing in ceremonies and other official occasions. The Dining room has a seating capacity of over 30 persons. The living quarters of the Governor and his family are on the same floor. A glossy verandah runs along the entire portion overlooking the Mandovi Bay and the Arabian Sea giving one a feeling of being on a ship’s deck.
Mormugao Fort
It is situated at the extreme northwestern point of Salsete and guard the entrance to the port. Located just north of Vasco Da Gama city and just south of Mormugao Port, this is the closest fort to Goa’s airport. Primarily, Mormugao was generalized to be the capital of the Portuguese empire, hence the fort was erected and in 1703 the viceroy moved into the town. The fortress is about 10 km in circumference and boasts of possessing some ancient articles like 20 bulwarks, three magazines, five prisons, a chapel and quarters for the guard. There were two beautiful fountains. The Fonte de Malabar kept the royal arms and was said to bob up from a gold mine and the Fonte de Santo Ignacio which had a more modest beginning in a sulphur mine.
Tiracol Fort
The fort has in its courtyard the century old Church of St. Anthony. The church is opened only on special occasions and has a classical late Goan facade. The church is full of light and dominates an elegant look. Cross the court and walk up the narrow stone stairs, through short passages into split level rooms, which follow the shapes of headland: old furniture, superb views over the river Tiracol and the beaches and are the main attractions of the fort. Fort Therekol in “Goa” now runs as a hotel called Fort Tiracol. The rooms within the church have been converted into beautiful massive rooms with multi-cuisine bar and restaurant. All rooms are equipped with modern facilities.onstituent of Goan history, and being one of the most important India forts it is also very popular with those indulging in historical travel activities of Goa.
Aguada Fort
The fort was constructed in 1612 to guard against the Dutch and the Marathas. It was a reference point for the vessels coming from Europe at that time. This old Portuguese fort stands on the beach south of Candolim, at the shore of the Mandovi river. It was initially tasked with defense of shipping and the nearby Bardez District. A spring within the fort provided water supply to the ships that called there, giving it the name “Aguada” (meaning ‘water’ in Portuguese). On the northern side, it provides a harbour for local shipping. The fort, at present, houses the central jail. A 19th century built lighthouse is situated inside the fortress.
Chapora Fort
Chapora fort was built by the Adil Shah of Bijapur on the southern headland of the Chapora River. It was also known as “Shahpur” and is now mostly ruined. It has a commanding view of the Vagator beach and is near to Anjuna beach.
The red laterite bastion, crowning the rocky bluff, was built by the Portuguese in 1617 on the site of an earlier Muslim structure. Deserted in the 19th century, it lies in ruins today, although the views up and down the coast from the weed-infested ramparts are still superb.
Cabo De Rama Fort
Unlike many other forts in the state, the Cabo da Rama fort predates the Portuguese invasion of Goa. Possession of the fort changed hands many a time as dynasties fell and rose during the ages. In 1763 the Portuguese claimed the Cabo de Rama fort after defeating the Raja of Soonda and renovated it subsequently. The present ramshackle structure with turrets and rusty cannons is a remnant of the Portuguese. Apart from scattered ruins here and there, the Cabo da Rama fort does not hold any attractions. Within its ramparts, the moated fort houses the church of Santo Antonio which is in excellent condition and is still in use. The western side of the fortress, where the cliffs drop sharply to the sea, provides a panoramic view of the surrounding areas.
Dodabetta Peak
There are many tourist attractions in Ooty and nearly all are well worth a visit when on a sight seeing trip in Ooty. However anyone is sure to be particularly keen on visiting those places from where one can witness the absolutely mesmerizing beauty of this queen of hill stations. Heading straight to the Dodabetta Peak is consequently the best choice. The height of the Dodabetta Peak is 2,623 meters making it the highest point of the district. It is located at a distance of about 10 km from the main town and offers an unbelievably beautiful view of the surrounding topography. One is sure to be impressed by the fascinating views. In fact it is even believed that if the weather does not betray you in any way, chances are there that you will get a view of extreme far off areas. On clear days the distant plains of Coimbatore and the flat highlands of Mysore can also be sighted. However it cannot be denied that such clear days rarely come and it is generally misty. But nonetheless the view that the Dodabetta Peak ordinarily commands is no less overwhelming.
Lamb’s Rock
Lamb’s Rock definitely deserves to be a part of your sight seeing trip in Ooty. The greatest attraction of the Lamb’s Rock is in fact this. It offers enchanting views of the plains of Coimbatore and the tea estates. The effect is almost that of a green carpet covering the slopes of the hills. There are very few places which can offer such a panoramic and overwhelming view of the surrounding picturesque landscape and the Lamb’s Rock is one of them. So make sure to visit the Lamb’s Rock at a distance of just about 9 km from Coonoor and witness for yourself nature at its very best.
Kalhatty Waterfalls
The beautiful Kolhatty waterfalls are about 100 feet in height and are located on the kalhatty slopes. The falls are about 13kms from the city, so anyone on a tour of Ooty can easily check out the falls and the beautiful area surrounding it. Besides, obviously looking at the waterfalls, you can explore the kalhatty-Masinagudi slopes, that are home to many wild species, including panthers, sambhar, bison and wild buffaloes. Kalhatty – Masinagudi slopes is rich in wildlife such as Panthers, Bisons, Wild Buffaloes, Wild Dogs, Spotted Deers, Sambars and different types of hill birds. The falls attracts all sorts of animals like Panthers, Spotted Deer and Bisons, who come to drink water in the early hours of the day and at night.
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is situated 67 kms from Ooty. Mudumalai is the home of about 25 tigers, 700 wild elephants, leopards, panthers, 1,000 gaur (Indian bison), bears, bonnet monkeys, horned antelopes, flying squirrels, hyenas and eagles. As the animals are quite elusive, you will need a combination of luck, patient and a good eye to see anything. There are also reptiles, such as pythons and big monitor lizards, and many species of birds. The park is 320 sq km. The vegetation varies from forest to grassland and swamps. There are over 200 species of birds in the park. You can get a free book, called Birds of Mudumalai, at the WWO office in Ooty.
The Ooty Lake
In the recent years Ooty Lake has emerged as one of the foremost tourist attractions of Ooty. Ooty Lake is an artificial lake that owes its construction to the first Collector of Ooty, John Sullivan. The original intention was to construct an irrigation tank but finally the lake was dredged out in the years 1823-1825. The lake has an irregular L shape and stretches for more than 2 km in length. The width of the lake varies at regular intervals. The over all area of this well known lake that is definitely a must see on any sight seeing trip of Ooty is about one and a half square miles. It remains open from 8 AM to 6 PM. Sitting on the edge of the lake to watch the sunset of Ooty is a tremendous experience.
Botanical Garden
Covering an extensive area of 55 acres, the Botanical Gardens in Ooty was laid way back in the year 1847 by the Marquis of Tweedale on the lower slopes of the Dodabetta Park. It is very well maintained to this date. The Horticulture Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu has been entrusted with the responsibility of looking after this garden. And the fragrance of the flowers is really intoxicating.One of the great surprises of the place is a fossil tree trunk that is believed to be 20 million years old. It may be added here that eucalyptus trees are an integral part of Ooty’s landscape. The trees are in such great numbers that they even support a small oil industry here.
Kodai Lake
Located at a distance of 3 Kilometers from the main bus stand of the city, the Kodai Lake falls at the geographical location of 10º14′ North Latitude and 77º28 East Longitude. Much of its present glamor owes to Vera Levinge. He transformed the marshy lakeside into a spectacular lake by strengthening its banks and bringing beautiful boats from Tuticorin. Situated at an altitude of 2285 Meters, the Kodai Lake of Kodaikanal has a star like shape if seen from a height. The Kodai Lake covers an area of almost 60 acres. One can trek or drive along the beautiful lake, which is bordered by a well maintained road. Several wonderful hotels surround the lake.
Bryant Park
Bryant Park, seen on the lake’s eastern side, is another important botanical park that must not be missed by tourists visiting Kodaikanal as it houses plenty of different varieties of flowers, rafts as well as hybrids.
A British forest officer by the name Bryant was the one who landscaped this park in the year 1980 and hence it is named after him. This is the place where the annual vegetable and flower show is held during the month of May and is the most visited place by many during the summer months. A glasshouse in the park contains wide varieties of flowers, ferns and other ornamental plants.
Pillar Rocks
Situated at a distance of about 8 km from the Kodai Lake, Pillar Rocks are three large boulders which vertically measure upto a height of about 122 m. It is 8 km from the lake. The rocks offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and plains. There is a small garden with lovely, colourful flowers.
At the bottom of the pillars are shady woods that make for a wonderful picnic spot. The scooped out chamber between the two pillar rocks is called Devil’s kitchen.
Ooty, the Queen be seated in this heavenly abode remained undiscovered to the great southern dynasties and it took the British to explore it in the early 1800s. They were, however, not the first friends of this land as a tribe called Todas had been living there long before the British came, claiming that the Nilgiris had been their home since time immemorial. The British constructed the first railway line in the area and made it the summer capital of the Chennai Presidency.
A haven for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, honeymooners and bollywood directors, Ooty is a hill station with something for all. Ooty or Udhagamandalam is one of those jewels in Tamil Nadu’s crown that attracts a huge number of tourists. Ooty is surrounded by four majestic hills-Doddabetta, Snowdon, Elk Hill and Club Hill.
The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore at a distance of 105 kms. Ooty is connected by train services also. The Blue Mountain Express connects Ooty to Mettupalayam located at a distance of 47 kms. Ooty could be accessed from most of the towns and cities of neighbouring Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
Arriving in Kodai town, one is enticed by orchards of pear trees with their graceful branches silhouetted in artistic curves against the evening sky like stark Zen etchings. Extensively visited by tourists and yet very serene, the beauty of virgin nature could be best witnessed in the breathtakingly beautiful hill station of Kodaikanal. Situated 2133 m above the sea level in Tamil Nadu, the magnificent hill station was developed by American missionaries in 1845. Buildings with gabled roof dot the skyline. Broken fragments of light from the setting sun are caught and kindled in the wind-rippled water appearing like a myriad lamp floating on the lake. Soon, as though on cue, lights start twinkling all over the hillside, and even the stars pick up the message, and heaven and earth are a riot of light, as though beaming messages of goodwill to each other.
The name Kodaikanal means the “gift of the forest”. Situated in the state of Tamil Nadu, among the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal is one of the unexplored destinations of southern India. With its intoxicating air, breathtaking scenery and serenity that you can hardly find in any other hill station, Kodaikanal is an ideal summer resort for the travel buffs of the southern plains.
The airport nearest to Kodaikanal is Madurai at a distance of 120 kms.There are frequent flights to most other Indian towns and cities. The nearest railhead is Kodai Road Railway Station at a distance of 80 kms from the place. Kodaikanal is connected by road with most of Tamil Nadu and nearby states. Being a popular hill station, bus services to Kodaikanal from other parts of the state are timely and very convenient.