When it comes to planning the vacation, the first option that comes to mind is Goa. For the Bollywood obsessed Mumbaikar, a Mumbai to Goa road trip is a must-have experience. Many movies are inspired by a trip through this romantic route.
How to Get There
The 600 odd kilometres trip takes about 10-12 hours depending on the number of pit-stops one makes. One can book a Mumbai to Goa one way taxi and not worry about renting the same for a round trip in case of long vacation plans. One may book the vehicle of one’s choice via mobile app or online and enjoy the journey, and then drop it off at the destination and continue with the vacation.
Deciding a Route
The best way to start on a vacation would be to take the Mumbai-Goa Highway via NH66 / NH17, a route which travels through Mumbai-Panvel-Penn-Kolad-Khed-Chiplun-Pali-Sawantwadi-Goa. ONe may even plan for beachside halt at Ganapati Pule which is known for pristine beaches located close to the famous Ganesha Temple.
Choosing a Vehicle
Negotiating on the bendy roads of NH17 is safest in trusty vehicles that are serviced beforehand so that they are in perfect condition for a safe trip. A well-equipped tool kit and fully inflated tyres are small things that go a long way in preventing unpleasant incidents en route. The route through the mesmerising Western Ghats to the land of beaches is a delightful scenic drive dotted with paddy fields, coconut trees and areca nut plantations and a dependable vehicle add comfort and ease to a journey which one is sure to enjoy as much as the destination.
The Right Start
Starting early in the morning helps one skip the city traffic and zip through signal free flyovers from Mumbai to Panvel. Birdwatchers can stop-over at Karnala Bird sanctuary, which is home to over 150 species of birds. If one is religiously inclined, the historically-important port city of Penn is a treat. The city is well-known as the place where huge Ganesha idols are made to be worshipped during Ganeshotsava. Chiplun in Ratnagiri district is the halfway point where one may halt for lunch. The place is famous for beautiful waterfalls, Parshuram Temple and Ratnagiri mangoes.A bit of skilful bargaining is all one needs to pick some juicy Alphonsos at the best rates if one happens to take the trip during summers.
An exhilarating drive through the ghats, a magnificent view of Vashisthi River, the chirping of birds and the distinct fresh fragrance of the forest accompanies the traveller on this enticing trip. Past Talera, NH17 enters Sindhudurg and then Sawantwadi at the border of Goa as one reaches the destination.
Not owning a car is no reason to be deprived of this memorable experience, as dependable providers like Zoomcar now offer self-drive cars at competent rates to anyone who holds a valid driving license.