A long weekend does entice you to take impromptu trips. One of the most popular destinations for a long weekend is Goa and a road trip from Mumbai to Goa is definitely on the bucket list of any traveller.
If one does not own a car, there is always the option of self-drive car rentals which are more affordable than last moment train reservations or expensive flights. Mumbai to Goa taxi services can be availed at the touch of a finger with easy-to-use mobile apps too! All one needs to do is throw in some essentials in a bag and connect the smartphone for directions and head out.
Getting There
The distance is approx 600 kms and about 10-12 hours drive, and one has 2 routes to choose from; through NH4 via Pune or NH17 via Ratnagiri, Ganapati Pule.
Route 1:
Mumbai Goa via NH4
Travel route: Mumbai-Pune-Satara-Kolhapur-Belgaum-Goa
Distance -607 kms
Time – 10 hours
The road is in great condition and is well developed with multiple wide lanes, proper route markings and dividers making it safe and fit for fast driving and yet a comfortable ride. Opt for this smooth and straight route to avoid motion sickness.
However, a number of tolls which need to be paid along the way makes it an expensive route.
Stopover to take the blessings at Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Temple , enjoy famous Belgaum kunda on the way.
Route 2:
Mumbai-Goa Highway via NH17, 66
Your travel route: Mumbai-Panvel-Kolad-Pali-Sawantwadi-Goa
Distance – 587 kms
Time – 12 hours
The route through the winding roads of western ghat makes for a wonderful trip from beginning to end. Scenic beauty on the way fuels the soul, making the journey as beautiful as the destination itself. The immaculate beauty of nature begs to be captured on camera from every angle. Take frequent pit stops and enjoy the breathtaking views of the rivers and mountains, paddy fields and coconut trees which make up the landscape. It is easy to fall in love with the ethereal views that mark the route. The adrenaline rush of navigating through the curves and narrow roads is best experienced in a self-drive car. One has to be a skilled and careful driver to take this route especially in monsoons. If one has time on hands, one may choose to make a stopover at Ganapati Pule to enjoy the pristine beaches by famous Ganesha Temple or stopover at Sawantwadi to buy wooden toys and lacquerware.
A Foodie’s Delight
Relish Malwani food on roadside dhabas or stop over to have vadapav, kanda bhajiya, missal pav and chai at tiny stalls. It is prudent to refuel as soon as the car shows the half-way mark on fuel indicator as gas stations en route are few and far between.
Non-car owners can enjoy the trip by availing of self drive car rental which is easily available through providers like Zoomcar. The experience of this journey is sure to be etched in memories forever.
Sujith Bhakthan
Tech Travel Eat
