Goa, the perennial party capital of India, is worth taking a road trip to from Bangalore. There are several inspiring routes that make the trip worthwhile. Even though the distance between Bangalore and Goa is not short (approximately 560 kilometres with 9 and a half hours of drive time), what makes a road trip to Goa a must-do is the incredible views and natural wonders that are strewn across the scenic routes. Undoubtedly Bangalore to Goa is one of the best road trips in India and you will know why at the end of this blod post.
Best Time To Visit
Goa has a consistent tourist footfall all through the year; however, the best time to visit Goa, as well as a road trip to Goa, is between November and March. The weather is pleasant and cool, and there are some interesting festivals and activities to enjoy on the glistening sands of Goa.
That said, a lot of folks take road trips to Goa during the monsoons, as the spectacular vistas along the road get only lovelier during monsoons.
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How To Get There
NH48 is well maintained and while you take detours, the roads may get narrow but they are in decent conditions overall. Going via car or hired cabs is advisable, many prefer buses and bikes too. Self hire cars are available online which charge you per hour.
Online deals offer good bargains on cab rentals which include round trips. Private bus operators charge from Rs. 1000 onwards for non-AC and AC buses. Avid bikers can take a bike trip keeping in mind it is a long route, thus planning their overnight stays in advance.
Route Options
There are three routes you can take to have a wholesome road trip to Goa.
Route 1: Hubli-Anmod Ghat Route
Bangalore → Tumkur → Chitradurga → Hubli → Dharwad → Ramnagar → Anmod → Panaji
One of the more popular ones for a road trip, the Anmod Ghat route will take approximately nine hours with a distance of 600 kilometres. You will be driving on NH48.
Popular activities from Bangalore to Goa by road
- Chitradurga Fort: Atop a flat valley, the fort is built in a series of seven fortification walls; thus the name ‘Seven Circles Fort’.
- Ranebennur Blackbuck Deer Sanctuary: A few kilometres of a detour will take you to this sanctuary famous for its endangered blackbuck population.
- Sira and Haveri: If you’d like to drive through the small and historically significant towns of Sira and Haveri, this trip would be the ideal excuse.
- Anmod Ghats: The winding and majestic Anmod Ghats are great for photo opportunities, paved with streams and waterfalls that run all along the route.
- Dudhsagar Falls: Dudhsagar is a four-tiered waterfall showcasing the stunning beauty of the Western Ghats. The area offers good trekking trails too.
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Route 2: The Karwar Route
Bangalore → Nelamangala → Tumkur → Chitradurga → Sirsi → Ankola → Karwar → Panaji
If you are travelling to South Goa, the Karwar Route is a good one to try. It will take you approximately 12 hours across 620 kilometres via NH 48 and then NH 66.
Popular activities from Bangalore to Goa by road
- Jog Falls: India’s second-highest plunge waterfall, Jog falls is at its best during the monsoons. You will have to take a detour off of Sirsi to reach here.
- Gokarna: A peaceful and beautiful beach haven, you can spend time lounging around its famous beaches or enjoy some water sports. Paradise Beach and Om Beach are the most popular.
- Karwar Warship Museum: A place where you can check out missile launchers and torpedoes as well as other curiosities.
Route 3: The Belgaum Route
Bangalore → Nelamangala → Tumkur → Chitradurga → Belgaum → Chorla Ghat → Panaji
This route through NH75 will take approximately 11 hours across 630 km. Check out some fun things to do on your way.
Popular activities from Bangalore to Goa by road
- Surla Waterfalls: A mesmerising sight, the terrain here also offers trekking opportunities. Or simply sit in the green landscape and meditate.
- Belgaum Fort: History buffs might enjoy visiting this oval shaped fort which also has temples and mosques.
- Anjunem Keri Dam: Stop by to bask in the serene sights and sounds of Anjunem Keri Dam enroute Chorla Ghats. Picture opportunities are plenty.
- Chorla Ghats: Enjoy the green abundance of Chorla Ghats with its many waterfalls, enchanting foot trails, and indulge in some bird watching.
- Arvalem Caves: In Sanquelim village, you will find a hidden gem in the form of Arvalem Caves, which dates back to the 6th century. Entry is denied after 5 pm.
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Safety Measures
- The roads are in good condition, more or less. Up until Hubli, there are good eateries throughout.
- The Karwar route is a breeze all throughout. Diversions and detours may take you through narrower and less maintained roads but it is advisable to drive slowly during such stretches.
- The Belgaum-Chorla roads are also pretty decent although they are two lanes, there are hardly any potholes. Sira and Tumkur even have a CCD.
- Consult your GPS while approaching by-passes, intersections and route landmarks.
- Keep snacks and water bottles stocked.
- As the drive may take an entire day, get plenty of rest the night before and start early in the morning.
- Driving at night is not advisable.
- Take overnight breaks in a lodge if fatigue takes over.
- You will need to take at least 5 breaks if you are the single driver through the trip or switch drivers regularly, if not.
- Keep cash handy for payments at tolls and restaurants.
Enjoy your drive and be sure to stop over at some of the places we’ve mentioned. Let us know what you thought of our suggestions in the comments.
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