Old Goa
Transport
How to reach Old Goa? Transport options?
Question Details
What are the best ways to travel to Old Goa? Looking for options by flight, train, bus, or road. What are the nearest airports and railway stations?
Answers
1 Answer
Here's a full breakdown of how to reach Old Goa:
Getting to Goa first
Old Goa is about 10 km east of Panaji (the state capital). So you first need to get to Goa:
- By Air: Fly into Goa International Airport (Dabolim) or the newer Mopa Airport (Manohar International). Dabolim is closer to Old Goa.
- By Train: The nearest railway stations are Karmali (Old Goa station — literally walking distance!) and Thivim. Karmali is the most convenient if you're coming specifically for Old Goa.
- By Road: Goa is well-connected via NH-66. Buses from Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and other cities drop you at Panaji or Margao.
Getting around once in Goa
From Panaji → Old Goa (~10 km):
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| KTC/Local Bus | Most budget-friendly. Buses run frequently from Panaji's Kadamba Bus Stand. ~₹15–20, takes 20–30 min. |
| Auto-rickshaw | ₹150–250 one way, negotiate beforehand. |
| Taxi / Ola / Rapido | ₹200–350 one way. Convenient, app-based options available. |
| Rental Scooter/Bike | Very popular in Goa. ₹300–500/day. Great if you want to explore at your own pace. |
| River Cruise | Some operators run heritage boat rides on the Mandovi River that stop near Old Goa — a scenic alternative! |
From Karmali Railway Station: Old Goa churches are literally a short walk or a 5-minute auto ride away — the most seamless option if you're arriving by train.
Pro tips
- All the major monuments (Basilica of Bom Jesus, Sé Cathedral, St. Francis of Assisi) are clustered within a short walking distance of each other, so once you're there, no transport is needed between them.
- Go early morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
- Sé Cathedral opens at 7:30 AM, while most other churches open at 9 AM (Basilica is closed Sunday mornings until 11 AM).
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