The party capital of India consistently a 'to visit' destination for many Bangloreans. The old world charm, the vibrant culture and the serene beaches is the perfect getaway for the IT crowds who have been toiling away at their desks.
Despite the fairly large driving time, a Bangalore-Goa road trip remains extremely popular. The favored route is the Hubli NH4 and Karwar NH63 highway which would be around 706 km. The alternative route is through Dharwad NH4 and Ponda SH34, which is shorter and more scenic.
Suggested Pit Stops:
Chitradurga :- Located around 100 km from Bangalore on the NH4, this quaint rocky outcrop has some picturesque valleys. The famous of them is the stone fort with massive circular walls, oil cauldrons and grinding stones. There is an interesting legend attached to this fort. Onake Obbava, a soldier's wife singlehandly obliterated Hyder Ali's army who tried to sneak into the fort.
Ranebennur Blackbuck Deer Sanctuary :- Located on the NH4, this is a unique sanctuary located few kilometers from the Ranebennur town. It was envisioned to protect the endangered Great Indian Bustard and also has a large number of wolves.
Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve :- Located off NH63, this tiger reserve houses the Kali Adventure Camp ,a famed white water rafting spot. You can also visit the Cotiago Wildlife Sanctuary which has several watch towers for wildlife spotting.
Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary :- The shortest route to Goa is via Ponda, and it will take you past this well beautiful wildlife sanctuary. There are several flora and fauna in the vicinity and you can also manage a trek to the Dudhsagar waterfalls. Another recommended visit is the Butterfly Conservatory that offers guide tours on Sundays along with meals and a trek.
Tips:
Despite the fairly large driving time, a Bangalore-Goa road trip remains extremely popular. The favored route is the Hubli NH4 and Karwar NH63 highway which would be around 706 km. The alternative route is through Dharwad NH4 and Ponda SH34, which is shorter and more scenic.
Suggested Pit Stops:
Chitradurga :- Located around 100 km from Bangalore on the NH4, this quaint rocky outcrop has some picturesque valleys. The famous of them is the stone fort with massive circular walls, oil cauldrons and grinding stones. There is an interesting legend attached to this fort. Onake Obbava, a soldier's wife singlehandly obliterated Hyder Ali's army who tried to sneak into the fort.
Ranebennur Blackbuck Deer Sanctuary :- Located on the NH4, this is a unique sanctuary located few kilometers from the Ranebennur town. It was envisioned to protect the endangered Great Indian Bustard and also has a large number of wolves.
Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve :- Located off NH63, this tiger reserve houses the Kali Adventure Camp ,a famed white water rafting spot. You can also visit the Cotiago Wildlife Sanctuary which has several watch towers for wildlife spotting.
Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary :- The shortest route to Goa is via Ponda, and it will take you past this well beautiful wildlife sanctuary. There are several flora and fauna in the vicinity and you can also manage a trek to the Dudhsagar waterfalls. Another recommended visit is the Butterfly Conservatory that offers guide tours on Sundays along with meals and a trek.
Tips:
- Regardless of which route you take, plan to reach Goa by sunset
- Since there are several routes for this trip, try to mix and match so you get to see the best of both
- The road through Chitradurga is dotted with windmills and make for a pretty sight during sunrise and twilight.
It is suggested to book your hotels online while planning the trip. There are numerous travel portals offering budget hotels in Goa near popular beaches like Calangute, Baga and Palolem. Do some research to get the best rate.
