Search flights to Goa

About Goa

Goa, the smallest state in India, is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. As of 2023, Goa is home to around 1.5 million residents and attracts millions of visitors each year, making it one of India's most popular tourist destinations. Located on the western coast along the Arabian Sea, Goa is a blend of Indian and Portuguese influences, offering a unique charm.

Goa experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with hot summers, a rainy season from June to September, and pleasant, cooler winters. The best time to visit Goa is from November to March when the weather is ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor exploration.

Dabolim Airport, also known as Goa International Airport, is located around 30 kilometers from the state capital, Panaji. Saudi Arabian citizens can easily access Goa via flights operated by airlines such as Saudia, Air Arabia, FlyDubai, and Etihad Airways, with direct and connecting flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.

Goa’s culinary scene reflects its coastal location and multicultural heritage. Seafood is a highlight, with dishes like Goan fish curry, prawn balchão, and crab xec xec being local specialties. The region’s Portuguese influence is evident in dishes like vindaloo and bebinca (a traditional Goan dessert). Street food is also a key attraction, with vendors offering items like ros omelette and Goan chorizo pav.

Tourists visiting Goa can explore a variety of attractions, from its iconic beaches to its historical landmarks. Popular beaches such as Baga, Anjuna, and Calangute are known for their vibrant atmosphere, water sports, and lively nightlife. Old Goa, with its UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, reflects the state’s rich colonial history. The Latin Quarter in Panaji is another highlight, with its colorful Portuguese-style houses and winding streets.

For nature enthusiasts, Goa offers much more than its beaches. The Dudhsagar Waterfalls, located in the Western Ghats, is one of the tallest waterfalls in India, providing a stunning view, especially during the monsoon season. The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers.

Saudi Arabian nationals can obtain an Indian electronic visa (e-Visa) for visiting Goa and other parts of India. The e-Visa is available for various purposes including tourism, business, and medical visits. Tourist e-Visas are offered in categories of 1 month, 1 year, or 5 years, with specific conditions on the number of entries and length of stay. The process is straightforward, allowing travelers to apply online before their trip.

Transportation to Goa City Center from Airport

Dabolim Airport

It is very easy to travel to Goa city center which is 4 km from Goa International Airport (Diabolim Airport)) by choosing either bus, train, shuttle, taxi or car rental companies. The maximum journey time it will take you is only 10 minutes. It is possible to travel to North Goa and South Goa in 30-35 minutes using the same type of vehicles.

Train

The train station called Dabolim Railway Station is located 1 km from Goa International Airport which provides access by express trains to the central points of Goa. These trains provide direct access to two railway stations in Margao and Vasco de Gama. You can reach other important cities of India via Konkan Railway which has high speed trains.

Bus and Shuttle

There are city bus services from Goa Airport to Chicalim and Vasco de Gama. If you want to go to different parts of Goa, you first need to take a taxi to Panaji. You can then take the bus from Panaji to North Goa and South Goa. Since there are a lack of regular city buses at Goa Airport, it is better for you to use private company shuttle buses serving at Goa Airport. This will prevent you lossing time and by pre booking provides you more affordable prices.

Taxi

Because of the short distance between the airport and the city center of 4km it can be quite practical to use a taxi. Airport taxis which can easily be seen at the exit of the terminal provide quick access to the city center and other parts of the city. To travel from Goa Airport to the center of Panaji, South of Goa you need to pay 400-500 Indian Rupees to the taxi driver.

Rent a Car

There are multiple local and foreign car rental companies in the airport terminal building. You can pre book your car rental at these car rental companies for daily or for however long you are needing the car. With a rented car to Goa city center from the airport it takes about 7-8 minutes.

Weather in Goa

DayMin - Max
WednesdayMin 15ºC - Max 33ºC
ThursdayMin 15ºC - Max 34ºC
FridayMin 18ºC - Max 33ºC
SaturdayMin 19ºC - Max 32ºC
SundayMin 21ºC - Max 32ºC

Frequently Asked Questions

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