PANAJI
Tourists will now be able to enjoy an aerial view of Goa sitting in a helicopter even as Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar launched ‘Helicopter Joy Rides’ on the occasion of Republic Day.
The concept of 'Goa from skies' is embodied in this ride. Parsekar said, tourists can now have an aerial view of Goa's greenery, temples, churches, beaches, waterfalls and heritage spots within 15 to 20 minutes from February 1.
‘Helicopter Joy Rides’ are being provided by Heli-Tourism, a joint venture between Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) and Pawan Hans.
Pawan Hans is the largest helicopter operator in India. Dr B P Sharma, chairman & managing director, Pawan Hans, said, “We have operations in 21 States of India. But, Goa is only the third State where we are offering services purely for tourism purpose”.
He said, “To start with, we will be offering 10 and 15 minutes ride. We have priced a 10-minute ride at Rs 3,250 per person while rate for a 15-minute ride is yet to be worked out”.
The company will operate these joy rides from Aguada on a daily basis from 10 am to 4 pm.
Some of the proposed routes are “ an aerial view of Fort Aguada “ Miramar Beach “ Dona Paula; an aerial view of Fort Aguada “ Candolim Beach “ Calangute Beach “ Anjuna Beach and aerial route of Fort Aguada “ Mandovi river - Panjim city “ Old Goa Church.
“As of now, we are doing sight-seeing from the top. But, later, we plan to do inter-city connectivity as well, like connecting Panaji to Old Goa or connecting Old Goa to Dabolim airport or connecting hotels and casinos which have a helipad”.
Meanwhile, Tourism Minister, Dilip Parulekar said amphibious buses will also be launched in Goa by February 15. Parulekar said these along with helicopter rides and hot-air balloons will boost tourism in the State.
