The lighthouse at Fort
Aguada as most people will associate with is the one built by the Portuguese in
the year 1765. This is tall round structure built on the upper fort and closed
in the year 1976. Painted white, you can only view it from the outside and
remains closed for entry to the general public "by order".
If one were to look
towards the sea on the west, you will see the new lighthouse built by us
Indians in the year 1976. All lighthouses are governed by the Lighthouses Act of
1928 and are under the control of the Directorate of Lighthouse and lightship (more
on this later) and so is this one. Architecturally it has no value and is a
tall square structure with light unit on top. As I was viewing it from the
upper fort, what caught my attention was the presence of civilians atop this
government property acting in a very touristy manner posing for selfies. This
had to be investigated. If they can be up there, why can't I?
As I exited the fort, I
turned to the left where a road was leading to a grey compound about 50 metres
away. I strode in that direction and came to a visibly "sarkari"
looking property with concrete structures within its high walls and an iron
gate for entry. Yes it was the entrance to the lighthouse and the best of all open
to viewing by the general public. For the price of a half cup of tea, you could
enter the premises and go atop the lighthouse. You can also
photograph/videograph for an additional fee. No prohibitions here. Everything
official.
The compound looked
deserted. Obviously no one seems to be interested in what I would call a
fantastic opportunity to go atop a lighthouse. Maybe no one knew. Maybe the
tourist guides/operators saw no worthwhile business opportunity in taking their
guests to this structure.
As I entered, a lone
security guard with a stick approached me. I informed him of my purpose and was
immediately taken to the office. The guard called out to someone through an
open window. An adjoining door opened and man in a white Tee and khaki trousers
walked out. He was the lighthouse keeper or "Light Keeper" in
official parlance. Forty Rupees it was for two adults and one camera. Children
between the ages 3 to 10 are charged Rs. 3/- by the way. Everything official,
tickets issued, no extras. Absolutely polite and helpful gentleman.
Visit Charges at the Entrance
The guard led us to the
entrance of the lighthouse. As I said earlier, there were no other souls in
this compound. You have to remove your footwear before entering as a signboard
announced and then climb approximately 5 stories to reach the top. Now here is
a warning. As you reach the last landing level via the stairwell, the final
climb is via an iron ladder about 10 feet in height which opens to the top
through roughly a 60 cm X 60 cm opening. I had to drop my backpack in order to
squeeze through. And mind you there is not enough space to stand there with the
light equipment and other gadgetry. You have to then move through a small
opening in the wall below the glass windows and stand out in the open area
surrounding the beacon. And that’s when you realize the strategic importance of
building a fort at that spot.
Light House Specs
Entrance to the Light House
The Light of the Light House.
This was my first visit
to a lighthouse and it was absolutely worthwhile. Do go there when visiting
Goa. There are about 185 lighthouses along the coast of India, and if any of them
do allow you entry, don't miss it.
Very interesting. I would love to do this
ReplyDeletePlease do visit. There is a 360 degree view of Goa waiting for you.
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