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Vegator Beach
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Vagator is one of the most scenic beaches, situated immediately north of Anjuna.
The dramatic red cliffs looking down on the shore with two fresh springs bubbling
within a stone's throw of the sea surely creates a picturesque backdrop at Vagator.
Nestling at a distance of mere 32 km from Panjim, the beach is well connected by
pre-paid taxi service, a bus or a motorcycle taxi to the beach. The nearest airport
is the Dabolim Airport (50 km) and the nearest railhead is at Thivim Station (17
km).
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The crescent shaped beach has become a favorite spot among tourists for midnight
parties. The beach is also well known as the 500 Old Portuguese fort of Chapora,
situated nearby. |
Vagator is split into two main beaches known as Big Vagator and Small Vagator.
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Big Vagator lined with dense palm plantations and white sand is the main beach that
is undeniably beautiful. However as it is a prime bus stop for domestic tourists,
a lie on the sand or a peaceful swim is out of the question here. Dominated by the
red ramparts of Chapora Fort, Big Vagator has the least number of shacks and action.
This towering fort at the northern tip of Vagator, marks a regal welcome to the
heartland of Goa's rave party scene in the season. Originally built by Adilshah,
the fort was rebuilt in 1717 by Goa's erstwhile viceroy, the Count of Ericia, to
guard the entrance to the Chapora river. You can even spot peacocks, wild hare and
jackals on the wooded slopes on the slightly rocky path that slides from the fort
to the beach. |
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As you continue past the spring that winds its way around the base of the hill,
it takes you to the fishing jetty at Chapora Village. During the curing season,
you can find tourists at par with the local residents, crowding in this charming
palm-fringed fishing bend of Goa. There are many excellent accommodation facilities,
plus the sands of Vagator Beach and the nightlife of Anjuna, just a short bike ride
away. Shop for exotic vegetables, incense sticks and speaciality breads. Don't forget
to visit the Chapora fishing jetty and watch the fish being unloaded from trawlers.
You can also try your hands in angling in this jetty. |
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Small (Mini or Little) Vagator to the south is more secluded. Also known as Ozran
beach one has to walk from Big Vagator to reach here. The beach is a host to huge
numbers of Israeli and British tourists, reflected in the many shop signs and restaurant
menus in Hebrew and English. At the end of Little Vagator is a prominent landmark
of the face of Shiva sculpted into a seaside boulder by an unknown sculptor from
the hippie era. However it has been eroded by wave action.
One can also see traces of fluorescent paint adorning the raucous rocks, a sign
of raver's psychedelic full-moon parties. |
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