Any soul who is in search of leaving the urban chaos and go for a road trip, then the coastal charm through the Konkan region will be one of the most refreshing drives of your life.
Yes, I am talking about the infamous Mumbai to Goa road trip, one of the most hyped but also worth the hype road trip in India. This scenic route takes you along the picturesque Konkan coast, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea, lush green valleys, and charming coastal villages.
From crossing the historic town of Kolad to a quick detour to hill station of Mahabaleshwar, from the winding ghats of Amboli Ghat to the lively beaches of North Goa like Baga and Anjuna, I promise you this road trip will be one of the most memorable trips of your lifetime.
Lets buckle up and join the roads for an unforgettable journey ahead!
Distance from Mumbai to Goa Trip
Mumbai to Goa By Car: Approximately 590 km, Around 10-12 hours
Mumbai to Goa By Bike: Approximately 590 km, Around 12-14 hours (depending on the bike speed and stops)
Mumbai to Goa By Bus: Approximately 590 km, Around 12-14 hours (depending on the bus type and stops)
Route 1: Via NH 66 (Coastal Route)
Route: Mumbai — Navi Mumbai — Panvel — Pen — Kolad — Chiplun — Ratnagiri — Sawantwadi — Goa
Total Distance: Approximately 580 km
Total Time Required: Around 12-14 hours (without long stops)
Starting your journey from Mumbai, you will quickly move towards Navi Mumbai. In 30 minutes from Navi Mumbai, you’ll head towards Panvel. As a gateway to the Konkan region, Panvel is surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes, including the Karnala Bird Sanctuary and the Karnala Fort, which are popular spots for trekking and nature walks.
Leaving Panvel, you will take NH 66 and head towards Pen. The roads are narrower but well-paved. The landscape begins to change as you move into the heart of the Konkan region. You must have heard of Pen for its traditional Ganesh idols and offers a glimpse into the local culture. It’s a perfect spot for a quick tea break and to stretch your legs.
The next stop from Pen is Kolad, with lush greenery on both sides. You’ll cross several small villages and get a true sense of rural Maharashtra. Kolad is famous for its adventure sports, especially river rafting on the Kundalika River. If you have the time and an adventurous spirit, a short rafting session can add excitement to your trip.
As you continue towards your Bombay to Goa trip, the next stop is going to be Chiplun, around the road through the Sahyadri hills. This stretch is particularly picturesque, with panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
Chiplun is a great place for travelers for a lunch stop, offering delicious local Konkani cuisine on road side food joints as well. Take an hour out and visit the Parshuram Temple and enjoy the serene Vashishti River at this stop on your Goa trip route.
From Chiplun, in another 2.5 hours you will reach towards Ratnagiri. The drive is through lush green valleys and coastal plains is a major highlight of this stop. Have you heard of Alphanso mangoes? Then you must have heard of Ratnagiri as well for its production. Don’t miss the Ratnadurg Fort and the serene Ganpatipule Beach.
From Ratnagiri, in another 160 kms you will reach Sawantwadi which takes into deeper into the Konkan belt. The final leg of your journey takes you from Sawantwadi to Goa in just 2 more hours. The road is smooth and well-maintained, making for a pleasant drive. As you approach Goa, you’ll notice the change in architecture and atmosphere, signaling the start of a more relaxed, beachside vibe.
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Major Pitstops via Coastal Route for Bombay Goa Road Trip
1. Kharghar Hills: Kharghar Hills, located in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, offer a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle, providing stunning panoramic views of the region.
The hills are a popular destination for nature walks and trekking, attract bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Do not miss this ideal spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
2. Sahyadri Mountain Range: The Sahyadri Mountain Range, also known as the Western Ghats, stretches across Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Goa, forming a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This ancient mountain range is a biodiversity hotspot, home to stunning scenery, including lush forests, rolling hills, and spectacular waterfalls, especially vibrant during the monsoon season.
3. Tamhini Ghat: Located between Mulshi and Tamhini in Maharashtra, is a scenic mountain pass celebrated for its greenery, cascading waterfalls, and misty atmosphere, particularly during the monsoon season.
The numerous waterfalls, including the Valse and Kansai waterfalls, add to the area's allure. Rich in biodiversity, Tamhini Ghat provides a serene retreat for relaxation and nature exploration.
4. Parshuram Temple: Parshuram Temple in Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, is an ancient and revered shrine dedicated to Lord Parshuram, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu.
If you admire temples, then visit this for its beautiful traditional Hindu architecture, featuring intricate carvings and a peaceful courtyard.
5. Sawantwadi Palace: Sawantwadi Palace, built in traditional style, houses a museum showcasing traditional arts and crafts, including the famous Ganjifa cards and lacquerware. It is a must visit on your Mumbai Goa road trip.
The royal family of Sawantwadi still resides here, adding to the palace's historical charm. The palace grounds include lush gardens and a tranquil lake, making it a must visit destination on your Bombay to goa road trip route.
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Best places to eat at Coastal Route for Bombay Goa Road Trip
1. Hotel Amantran, Ratnagiri: Hotel Amantran is a renowned eatery in Ratnagiri, known for its delectable seafood dishes.
The restaurant sources fresh fish from local fishermen and prepares it in traditional Malvani style, using a blend of spices and coconut. The menu boasts a variety of fish curries, fried fish, and seafood thalis, offering a true taste of coastal Maharashtra.
2. Hotel Konkan Crown, Sawantwadi: Hotel Konkan Crown is a popular dining destination in Sawantwadi, celebrated for its authentic Malvani cuisine. The restaurant specializes in seafood delicacies, including fish fry, crab curry, and prawn masala, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes.
Route 2: Via NH 48 (Expressway and Highway Route)
Route: Mumbai — Navi Mumbai — Lonavala — Satara — Karad — Kolhapur — Sankeshwar — Belgaum — Mollem — Goa
Total Distance: Approximately 600 km
Total Time Required: Around 10-12 hours (without long stops)
Begin your road trip from Mumbai and navigate through the city's traffic before merging onto the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. From Navi Mumbai, you continue on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway towards Lonavala. This stretch is a mix of all with multiple lanes ensuring a swift journey. As you drive through the Western Ghats, the lush greenery and breathtaking views are sure to captivate you. Lonavala is a perfect spot for a short break; indulge in some local chikki and enjoy the scenic viewpoints.
Leaving Lonavala, you continue on NH 48, and reach Satara in next 2 hours. The drive to Satara is scenic, with the road meandering through hills and valleys. Satara is all about natural beauty, less crowded roads and more serene ambience. You can take a brief stop here to explore the Ajinkyatara Fort or enjoy the serenity of the Kaas Plateau if you have extra time here.
Next is the journey from Satara to Karad. This quaint town is known for its lush green surroundings and the confluence of the Krishna and Koyna rivers. A quick stop here can be refreshing, allowing you to soak in the local ambiance and perhaps enjoy a snack.
Continuing south, you’ll head towards Kolhapur. Apart from the fame of Kolhapuri chappals of this region, Kolhapur is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, including the Mahalakshmi Temple and the historic Panhala Fort.
In the next two hours you will cross Sankeshwar and drive towards Belgaum, crossing another 110 kms. Here at Belgaum, you can spend some time visiting the Belgaum Fort or the Kapileshwar Temple, walking through the history of this place.
Next head from Belgaum to Mollem which takes you through picturesque landscapes and is the gateway to the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. The road conditions are generally good, but be careful because as you approach the border of Goa, the terrain becomes more rugged and forested.
The final leg of your journey takes you from Mollem to Goa. The road here is narrow but well-maintained, winding through the scenic Western Ghats, a key highlight of this Bombay to Goa road trip. As you descend towards the coast, the lush greenery and fresh air welcome you for your Goa weekend trip. Needless to say, this will be one of the best road trip from Mumbai.
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Major Pitstops via Expressway and Highway Route for Bombay to Goa Road Trip
1. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park: Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, located in Goa, covers an area of approximately 240 square kilometers and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including species like the Indian bison, leopard, and a variety of bird species.
The park is also famous for the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of India's tallest and most picturesque waterfalls, which cascades down from a height of over 300 meters.
2. Belgaum Fort: Originally built in the 12th century by the Ratta dynasty, the fort has witnessed numerous rulers, including the Yadavas, Vijayanagara Empire, Adil Shahi dynasty, and the British.
The fort's architecture features an amalgamation of Indo-Islamic and colonial styles. Inside the fort complex, you can explore ancient temples like the Kamal Basti and mosques such as the Safa Masjid.
3. Sankeshwar Temple: Sankeshwar Temple, situated in the town of Sankeshwar in Karnataka, is a prominent Jain pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Neminatha, the 22nd Tirthankara.
The temple is renowned for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and serene ambiance. The temple complex includes other smaller shrines and a dharamshala (rest house) for pilgrims.
4. Sadashivgad Hill Fort: This historic fort offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the Kali River, a must visit on your Goa weekend trip.
Built in the 17th century by Basavlingraj, a ruler of the Sonda dynasty, the fort has witnessed several historical events and changes in power, including its capture by the Marathas and the British.
Best places to eat at Expressway and Highway Route for Bombay to Goa Road Trip
1. Hotel Parakh, Kolhapur: Hotel Parakh is a culinary landmark in Kolhapur, renowned for its authentic Kolhapuri cuisine. The restaurant's menu features a wide array of spicy and flavorful dishes, with a focus on mutton and chicken preparations.
Specialties include the iconic Kolhapuri mutton curry, chicken sukka, and tambda rassa. Hotel Parakh's traditional recipes and use of local spices ensure an unforgettable dining experience for those seeking the true taste of Kolhapur.
2. Niyaz Hotel, Belgaum: On your Goa tour from Mumbai, visit this well-known establishment in Belgaum - Niyaz Hotel, celebrated for its mouthwatering Hyderabadi biryani and Mughlai delicacies.
The restaurant's biryani is prepared using traditional methods and aromatic spices, creating a rich and flavorful dish. In addition to biryani, Niyaz Hotel offers a range of kebabs, curries, and breads, all prepared with authentic flavors.
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Route 3: Via NH 4 (Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH 48)
Route: Mumbai — Navi Mumbai — Pune — Satara — Karad — Kolhapur — Nippani — Belgaum — Khanapur — Londa — Mollem — Goa
Total Distance: Approximately 590 km
Total Time Required: Around 11-13 hours (without long stops)
Like the other two routes, your journey starts from Mumbai, merge onto the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, and transition to Navi Mumbai. Continuing on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway towards Pune, this route takes you through the scenic Western Ghats, offering stunning views of the hills. If you are taking a stop at Pune, explore the Aga Khan Palace or enjoy a meal at one of the city’s renowned eateries.
Leaving Pune, you’ll drive along NH 48 towards Satara. You can take a brief stop here to visit the Ajinkyatara Fort or the Kaas Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its seasonal wildflowers.
The drive from Satara to Karad is relatively short and pleasant, just like route 2 for Bombay to Goa road trip. The road conditions remain good, with minimal traffic. Karad, situated at the confluence of the Krishna and Koyna rivers, offers a peaceful environment.
Continuing south, you’ll reach Kolhapur where you can buy the famous Kolhapuri chappals and also taste the traditional Kolhapuri cuisine.
From Kolhapur, the route takes turn in new pitstops like Nippani. The highway here is smooth, making for a swift journey. Nippani is a small town known for its agricultural produce. Drive straight away to Belgaum from Nippani and then to Khanapur in 2 hours. Khanapur is a small town surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes. A brief stop here allows you to enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps take a short walk in the countryside.
From Khanapur, continue towards Londa. The road here winds through forested areas, offering a tranquil and scenic drive. If you have time, you can take a short detour to explore the nearby forests and enjoy the tranquility of the region.
The drive from Londa to Mollem takes you through more forested landscapes as you approach the Goa border. The final leg of your journey takes you from Mollem to Goa. The road narrows as you descend towards the coast,welcoming you with the beaches and pristine skies of Goa.
Major pitstops at Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH 48
1. Aga Khan Palace: Built in 1892 by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III, this palace is renowned for its beautiful architecture, featuring sprawling lawns and Italian arches.
It served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi, and his secretary Mahadev Desai during the Quit India Movement of 1942. The palace now houses a museum with exhibits related to Gandhi's life and the Indian freedom struggle, including his personal belongings and photographs.
2. Kaas Plateau: Also known as the Valley of Flowers of Maharashtra, this is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site located near Satara in Maharashtra, a must visit on your Mumbai Goa road trip.
The area is home to over 850 species of flowering plants, including many endemic and endangered species. In addition to the flowers, visitors can enjoy the tranquil Kaas Lake, which adds to the region's scenic beauty. Do take a stop and enjoy the beauty of hills here.
3. Preeti Sangam, Karad
Preeti Sangam, located in Karad, Maharashtra, is a picturesque spot where the Krishna and Koyna rivers converge.
The confluence, also known as the Lover's Meeting Point, is a serene and scenic location that holds significant cultural and spiritual value for the local community. The site is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful ambiance, making it a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
4. Gokak Falls: Gokak Falls, located on the Ghataprabha River in Belgaum, Karnataka, is a spectacular waterfall known for its striking resemblance to Niagara Falls.
The waterfall drops from a height of 52 meters over a cliff, creating a stunning sight as the water cascades down with great force. Especially in monsoon, this waterfall takes up its best dress.
5. Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary: The sanctuary, named after the historic Bhimgad Fort within its boundaries, covers an area of approximately 190 square kilometers and is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered Malabar pied hornbill, Indian bison, and several species of bats.
Best places to eat at Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH 48
1. Hotel Sangam, Karad: If you want a proper Maharashtrian Thali, this is the place. The thali features an assortment of traditional dishes, including bhakri (a type of bread), sabzis (vegetable dishes), dal (lentils), rice, and desserts.
2. Hotel Opal, Kolhapur: This is a renowned restaurant in Kolhapur, famous for its mouthwatering Kolhapuri cuisine. The restaurant's menu boasts a variety of spicy and flavorful dishes, with the Kolhapuri mutton curry and pandhra rassa (a white curry) being the highlights.
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Accomodation in Goa
1. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa: This luxury resort offers a serene and exclusive experience with its private beach, lush gardens, and
Mediterranean-style architecture. The Jiva Spa, golf course, and fine dining options add to its allure.
2. The Leela Goa: Situated amidst 75 acres of landscaped gardens, lagoons, and pristine beaches, The Leela offers a luxurious stay with its spacious rooms, private balconies, and world-class dining options.
3. W Goa: Known for its vibrant and trendy vibe, W Goa offers stylishly designed rooms, vibrant nightlife, and a range of dining options.
The Rock Pool, WooBar, and Spice Traders are popular spots.
4. Cidade de Goa: This beachfront resort offers a blend of Portuguese and Goan architecture, with rooms overlooking the sea
or the lush gardens. The resort also boasts multiple restaurants and a lively beach shack.
5. Vivanta Goa, Panaji: Located in the heart of Panaji, Vivanta offers easy access to the city's attractions. The hotel features contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool, and the award-winning Latitude restaurant.
6. Ahilya by the Sea: This boutique hotel offers a tranquil beachfront setting with spacious and beautifully designed rooms.
The hotel's focus on wellness and relaxation, with yoga sessions and Ayurvedic treatments, sets it apart.
Best Time for Mumbai to Goa Road Trip
The best time for a road trip from Mumbai to Goa is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool. This time of year offers comfortable temperatures for driving and exploring the coastal region, with less humidity than the summer months. Additionally, the winter months coincide with the tourist season in Goa, so you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and various festivals and events that take place during this time.
Nearby Road Trips from Mumbai
Mumbai to Lonavala - 83.7 km - 2 hr
Mumbai to Alibaug - 96.2 km - 2 hr 30 min
Mumbai to Pune - 148.2 km - 3 hr
Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar - 263.7 km - 5 hr
Mumbai to Nashik - 167.6 km - 3 hr
Nearby Road Trips from Goa
Goa to Gokarna - 145.8 km - 3 hr 30 min
Goa to Hampi - 315.2 km - 6 hr
Goa to Dudhsagar Waterfalls - 65.4 km - 2 hr
Goa to Belgaum - 125.7 km - 3 hr
Goa to Dandeli - 125.5 km - 3 hr
FAQ
How long does it take to drive from Mumbai to Goa?
It takes approximately 10 to 12 hours to drive from Mumbai to Goa, depending on traffic and road conditions.
What is the best route from Mumbai to Goa?
The best route is via NH 66, which offers a scenic drive along the Konkan coast.
Are there any tolls on the way from Mumbai to Goa?
Yes, there are several toll booths along the route, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash for toll payments.
What are some good pitstops and places to eat along the route?
Some popular pitstops include Lonavala, Kolhapur, and Sawantwadi, which offer a variety of dining options.
What is the best time of year to do the Mumbai to Goa road trip?
The best time is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant.
Are there any safety tips or precautions to keep in mind while driving?
It's important to drive carefully, especially on winding roads, and to stay alert for other vehicles and pedestrians.
What are the road conditions like on the Mumbai to Goa route?
The road conditions are generally good, but some patches may be uneven or under construction, so it's advisable to drive cautiously.
Are there any scenic spots or attractions worth stopping for along the way?
Yes, there are several scenic spots along the route, including beaches, waterfalls, and viewpoints, where you can stop and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
Is it safe to drive at night on the Mumbai to Goa route?
It's not advisable to drive at night, as visibility may be poor and the risk of accidents higher.
Are there any alternative modes of transportation, such as buses or trains, from Mumbai to Goa?
Yes, you can also travel by bus or train from Mumbai to Goa, which may be more convenient for some travelers.
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