Naval Aviation Museum is a unique and informative museum in Goa that showcases the history and achievements of the Indian Naval Air Arm. Located in Bogmalo, near Vasco da Gama, the museum is one of the only two military aviation museums in India and the only naval aviation museum in Asia. The museum is divided into two main parts, an outdoor exhibit and a two-storey indoor gallery. famous tourist attraction in South Goa, Visit during South Goa Sightseeing package. In this article, we will explore the location, timing, entry fees, significance, things to do, and some frequently asked questions about this fascinating museum.
Location of Naval Aviation Museum
Naval Aviation Museum is located in Bogmalo, a village in Mormugao taluk, South Goa. It is situated on a plateau that overlooks the Bogmalo beach and offers a splendid view of the Arabian Sea. It is about 6 km from Vasco da Gama, the port town of Goa, and 30 km from Panaji, the capital city of Goa. It can be easily reached by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport, about 4 km away. The nearest railway station is Vasco da Gama Railway Station, about 6 km away. There are also buses and taxis available from Panaji and other parts of Goa.
Timing / Entry Fees Naval Aviation Museum
Naval Aviation Museum is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The museum remains closed on Mondays and national holidays. The entry fee for visiting the museum is 20 rupees for adults and 10 rupees for children. Photography is allowed inside the museum premises but not inside the aircraft or the simulator room. Visitors are advised to dress decently and respectfully and to maintain silence and discipline inside the museum.
How to Reach Naval Aviation Museum
Naval Aviation Museum can be easily reached by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport, about 4 km away. The nearest railway station is Vasco da Gama Railway Station, about 6 km away. There are also buses and taxis available from Panaji and other parts of Goa.
Things to Do / Must See Naval Aviation Museum
Naval Aviation Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in history, aviation, or military. The main attraction of the museum is its collection of 13 aircraft that were used by the Indian Navy throughout its history. These include fighter jets, bombers, helicopters, trainers etc. Some of these aircraft are rare and unique such as the Short Sealand Mk 2 (the only surviving aircraft of its kind in India), the Fairey Firefly TT Mk1 (the sole craft of its type in India), and the Lockheed L1049G Super Constellation (the largest aircraft on display). The aircraft are displayed outside in the museum’s open air gallery along with various aircraft engines and parts.
The indoor gallery features rooms focused on specific topics such as naval armament (such as bombs, torpedoes, autocannons etc), naval uniforms (such as dress whites, dungarees etc), naval operations (such as Operation Vijay etc), naval legends (such as Admiral Ram Dass Katari etc), naval heritage (such as INS Vikrant model etc), naval simulator (such as Sea Harrier simulator etc) etc. The indoor gallery also has a large model of INS Viraat (India’s second aircraft carrier) that depicts various aspects of life on board such as flight deck operations, hangar deck operations etc.
The museum also offers various interactive activities such as quizzes, games etc for children and adults alike. The museum also hosts various events such as seminars, workshops etc for students and enthusiasts.
Significance of Naval Aviation Museum
Naval Aviation Museum is a significant monument for several reasons. It is one of the only two military aviation museums in India and the only naval aviation museum in Asia that showcases the history and achievements of the Indian Naval Air Arm. It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Goa that attracts visitors from all over the world.
The museum is also a historical place that reflects the evolution and development of naval aviation in India from its inception in 1953 to its present status as a formidable force. The museum also displays various aircraft that played a vital role in various wars and operations such as Indo-Pak wars of 1965 and 1971, Operation Vijay of 1961 etc.
The museum is also a educational place that provides valuable information and insights into various aspects of naval aviation such as aircraft types, armament types, operation types etc. The museum also inspires young minds to pursue careers in aviation or military.
FAQ
When was Naval Aviation Museum established?
The museum was established on 12 October 1998 with a collection of six aircraft.
Who designed Naval Aviation Museum?
The architect who designed Naval Aviation Museum is unknown but it is believed that he was influenced by naval architecture.
How often is the Sea Harrier simulator operational?
The Sea Harrier simulator is operational every day except Mondays from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The simulator fee is 300 rupees per person for 15 minutes.
How long does it take to visit Naval Aviation Museum?
It takes about two hours to visit Naval Aviation Museum and its exhibits.
What are some other attractions near Naval Aviation Museum?
Some other attractions near Naval Aviation Museum are:
Bogmalo Beach: A clean and calm beach that offers various water sports and activities.
Japanese Garden: A scenic garden that overlooks the sea and has a small temple inside.
St Andrew’s Church: A historic church that dates back to 1570.
Mormugao Fort: A Portuguese fort that was built in 1624.
Naval War Memorial: A memorial that pays tribute to the martyrs of Indian Navy.
Conclusion
Naval Aviation Museum is a unique and informative museum that showcases the history and achievements of the Indian Naval Air Arm. It is a place that appeals to all kinds of travelers and provides them with an interesting experience. It is a place that showcases the evolution, development, and glory of naval aviation in India. It is a place that deserves to be visited and appreciated by everyone who loves to explore the wonders of the world…
