Vasco-Da-Gama, earlier called Sambhaji, is a cosmopolitan city in
Goa located 39 km southwest of
Panaji. The place was named so, in honour of Vasco-Da-Gama who discovered the sea route to India. Popularly known as Vasco, it is considered one of Goa’s largest industrial and commercial cities. It lies on the western tip of the Marmagoa peninsula overlooking the
Zuari River. Vasco has the oldest railway terminus for passenger service.
This area, which is strategically important, was acquired by the Portuguese in 1543 and was one of the busiest ports on India's west coast. It is still an important shipping center. Multi storied buildings and an impressive church monopolise the city center.
Goa's only commercial airport at
Dabolim is 4 km southeast from the city. The natural port of Marmagoa is near Vasco-Da-Gama. Bogmalo, Velsao, Majorda, and Colva are the nearby beaches. Temples, churches, and masjids encircle the city.
Cabo de Rama Fort, Rivona caves are the important monuments.
Vasco-da-Gama is connected by train with Bangalore, Belgaum, Hospet and Hyderabad and via
Miraj to Mumbai, New Delhi and
Agra. Goa is well connected by NH 17A with Maharashtra and Karnataka. There are regular bus services to Mumbai, Bangalore, Hampi and other destinations.
