Goa, being one of the oldest and most busy port states in India, offers several historic lighthouses for history lovers. While most of the tourists in Goa overlook these lighthouses on their trip, they hold very strong historical significance to understand the Old Goa.
If you are planning a trip to Goa, and want to touch the old soils of this beautiful state, this blog is for you.
In this blog, we’ll be discussing some of the best lighthouses in Goa that one must explore on their trip to Goa. We’ll also be resolving all your concerns related to finding the best resort in North Goa.
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Here is a list of the top 4 lighthouses in Goa:
1. Fort Aguada Lighthouse
Located between Mormugao Bay and Calangute Beach, Fort Aguada Lighthouse is the most famous lighthouse in Goa and stands atop the Aguada Fort in Bardez. Cabo Castle used to have a circular staircase overlooking the Arabian Sea and the royal residence.
This famous lighthouse is 13 meters high and was originally lit with oil lamps. However, in 1976, oil lamps were replaced with electric lighting. Built in 1864, it is one of the oldest lighthouses in Asia. Large flames guided the fleet on “Pilot’s Hill” before the lighthouse. As of now, this hill is the Immaculate Conception Church in Panjim.
The Fort Aguada Lighthouse also has the great clock tower of the Augustine Monastery inside.
FYI, this famous lighthouse has been in many Bollywood movies!
- Location: Cinquerim, Bardez
- How to get there: Enter via Fort Aguada
- Best time to visit: November to March
2. Betul Lighthouse
The Betul lighthouse is located on a steep hill in Quitol, South Goa. Where on one side, there are tall grasses, the alternate side has the shore. The Betul lighthouse is around 20 km from Margao and about 6 km from the Assolna-Cavelossim Bridge. One can take a glance at Betul Beach, Quepem, nearby villages, and the ocean from the lighthouse.
The lighthouse is on Betul Fort, built in 1676 through Shivaji Maharaj. The tower is octagonal, fabricated from concrete, and has pink and white spiral bands, consequently making it easier to spot the lighthouse. With time, the fort has now turned into ruins, and the shore has rocks, palm timber, and casuarina timber.
If you get lucky, you might even see dolphins visiting the side shores.
- Location: Quito, South Goa
- How to get there: A 30-minute walk uphill from the Holy Cross Chapel
- Best time to visit: October to March
3. St. George Lighthouse
Located at a distance of around 6.5 km from the Mormugao Port, St George Island or Ilha de São Jorge lighthouse is one of the most famous lighthouses in Goa. Reaching St George Island is also a beautiful experience, as you have to hop on a mesmerizing boat journey.
Standing 100 meters tall in the middle of the sea, St George Lighthouse is a mesmerizing watch if you are interested in experiencing the essence of Old Goa. The lighthouse is painted with horizontal stripes of black and white and consists of around 85 steps outside the cylindrical building.
You’ll also find a deep well near the lighthouse. Earlier, ships used to dock at the island to take drinking water from this well; however, the well is now abandoned and in poor condition.
The first light was in a simple tower. In 1956, oil lamps were introduced. After several modifications, in 1999, electronic lighting was added.
- Location: St. Louis. George Island, Wasco
- How to get there: Take a boat from Mormugao Port
- Best time to visit: October to March
4. Campal Lighthouse
The Campal lighthouse is located near the Children’s Park in Campal, Panjim. The white concrete tower is now on the verge of getting ruined as the adjacent riverbank is eroding.
Built around 42 years ago, the Campal lighthouse stands 22 meters high and is situated on the south bank of the Mandovi River. Once an important lighthouse for guiding barges, trawlers, and other boats in the river, the Campal lighthouse is now often overlooked by most of the visitors in Goa.
- Location: Near Children’s Park, Campal, Panjim
- How to get there: A few minutes walk from the Children’s park
- Best time to visit: Any time of the year, preferably in the mornings
Wrapping Up
There you have it—your guide to exploring the centerstones of sea navigation in ancient Goa.
Do not make the mistake of completing your Goa trips without experiencing these ancient sites. Each lighthouse in Goa will tell you a great story about the lives of the past.
As most of these lighthouses are located in the northern part of Goa, it might trouble you to find a good resort in the area. But don’t worry; here’s your perfect place to stay in North Goa. White Flower Cottages in North Goa offer everything to tenfold that experience. With all the luxury services, ambiance, and amenities offered by White Flower Cottages, your stay in North Goa is sure to be tenfold your trip experience!
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