Getting There and Away

Scenic aerial view of Mandrem Beach in Goa, India, featuring lush greenery and coastline.
Mohit Hambiria, Pexels

Goa is well-connected through two international airports, major railway stations, and various bus terminals, facilitating travel to and from the region. The primary air hubs are Dabolim Airport (GOI) in South Goa and the newer Manohar International Airport (Mopa Airport, GOX) in North Goa. Key railway stations include Margao (Madgaon) and Vasco da Gama in the south, and Thivim and Pernem in the north. Major bus terminals are located in Panjim, Margao, and Mapusa.

By Air:

Goa is accessible by flights to Dabolim Airport (GOI) and Manohar International Airport (Mopa Airport, GOX). Mopa Airport, operational since January 2023, has increased connectivity, serving many domestic and some international routes. Flights from major Indian cities like Mumbai typically take around 1 hour, with fares starting from approximately INR 1,717. A flight from Delhi usually takes about 2.5 hours, with fares ranging from INR 3,500 to INR 13,000. International flights from the United States can cost between $790 and $1,621 for a round trip.

By Train:

The Konkan Railway offers scenic and efficient routes to Goa. Direct trains from Mumbai to Goa can take approximately 8-9 hours, with some services like the Vande Bharat Express completing the journey in about 7 hours 50 minutes during non-monsoon periods. Ticket prices vary by class, with sleeper class fares from Mumbai starting around INR 435, and AC Chair Car on Vande Bharat Express ranging from INR 1,100 to INR 1,970.

By Bus:

Extensive bus services connect Goa to neighboring states and major cities. A bus journey from Mumbai to Goa typically takes 12 to 17.5 hours, with fares starting from approximately INR 600. From Bangalore, buses take about 10 to 14 hours with fares from around INR 900. Pune to Goa bus travel is generally 9 to 11 hours, with fares beginning at approximately INR 599.

Local Airport Transfers:

From Mopa Airport, electric buses operated by Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC) connect to various towns such as Panaji (approx. INR 200) and Margao (approx. INR 400). Taxis are also available from both airports, though costs for a prepaid taxi from Dabolim to North Goa beaches like Baga can be around INR 1,200-1,300.