Tips for Travelling Around Goa, India

Flying to Goa

If you're flying to Goa you'll land at Goa's only international airport, Diabolim in Vasco da Gama. Lots of airlines fly there from airports around the UK- some of them direct though most transit in Mumbai. Residents of the UK travelling to India will need to obtain a Visa before departing. An online application form can be filled out here.

On arrival in Goa

Pre paid taxis are available at the airport. For those of you that have booked a package holiday to Goa, you may find that you already have transfers included, check the details at time of booking.

Getting around Goa

The Kadamba bus company runs services around Goa and is easily the cheapest mode of transport. However the most common form of transport amongst locals and travellers alike is scooter. Scooters can be hired relatively cheaply and offer a greater degree of flexibility. They are widely available and should cost around Rs 300 during peak season and substantially less in off season. It'll be a lot less nippy, but you can also hire a car in Goa if you prefer. Taxis can also be booked for travelling between towns and for trips further afield. Expect to pay Rs 1500 per day for taxi hire. In town, taxis, motorcycle taxis and autorickshaws are the most prevalent form of transport.

Travelling further afield

There are regular buses to the nearby towns of Mumbai, Pune, Mangalore and Bangalore. Travellers should be aware that local buses have no air conditioning and are generally cramped and uncomfortable. For a greater degree of comfort, a number of private operators run interstate bus services. Margao and Panaji are the main bus hubs in Goa. An alternative to bus transport is to take the Konkan Railway which runs north to Mumbai and South to Mangalore. Trains can be caught from Margao station. Trains can book out in advance so it's wise to get tickets as early as possible. This applies especially in the case of sleeper trains. Tickets can be bought in advance at the station or online at Konkan Railway.