Delhi to Goa Road Trip: Routes, Itinerary, Cost, and Travel Guide

Travelling from Delhi to Goa by road is more than just covering kilometres; it is about experiencing the cultural and geographical variety of India at every stage of the journey. Starting from the capital city in North India and moving towards the western coastline, travellers pass through multiple states, each with its own food, traditions, and attractions.

For many, a Delhi to Goa trip is not just about reaching the beaches but about making the road itself a highlight. Whether by car or bike, the journey is long yet rewarding, filled with highways, heritage towns, natural sights, and food stops worth remembering.

This guide takes a closer look at the best route from Delhi to Goa by car, the Delhi to Goa road trip cost, suggested itineraries, weather, and even accommodation options like booking a villa in Goa once you arrive.

Delhi to Goa by Road: Distance and Travel Time

The Delhi to Goa by road distance is approximately 1,850 to 1,950 kilometres, depending on the chosen route. It generally takes around 32 to 36 hours of continuous driving.

Most travellers break the journey into three or four days, using the road trip as an opportunity to see attractions along the way. With a proper plan, the trip can be turned into a combination of sightseeing and driving, rather than just a long stretch of hours on the highway.

Best Route from Delhi to Goa by Car

There are several ways to travel to Goa by road from Delhi, but two stand out for travellers:

1. Delhi – Jaipur – Udaipur – Ahmedabad – Surat – Mumbai – Goa (NH48)

• Distance: ~1,880 km
• Time: 34–36 hours
• This is the most popular and practically the best route from Delhi to Goa by car. It runs through Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra before reaching Goa.
• Highlights along the way: Jaipur’s forts, Udaipur’s lakes, Ahmedabad’s food culture, Surat’s textile markets, and Mumbai’s coastal stretch.

2. Delhi – Indore – Nashik – Goa (via NH52 and NH60)

• Distance: ~1,760 km
• Time: 32–34 hours
• Considered the shortest route from Delhi to Goa by road, this path takes travellers through central India.
• Highlights along the way: Gwalior fort, Indore’s street food, Nashik’s vineyards, and Maharashtra’s ghats closer to Goa

Both routes are safe and well-connected. Those looking for variety and sightseeing can choose the NH48 route, while those preferring a shorter drive can take the Indore–Nashik route.

Delhi to Goa Road Trip Cost

The Delhi to Goa road trip cost depends on several factors:

• Fuel: A car giving 15 km per litre will need about 120 litres of fuel for 1,800 km, costing approximately ₹12,000–₹14,000 at current petrol prices.
• Toll charges: Expect around ₹3,500–₹5,000 in tolls depending on the route.
• Accommodation: Mid-range hotels cost ₹2,000–₹3,000 per night. For a 3-day journey, budget around ₹6,000–₹9,000.
• Food and Miscellaneous: Around ₹4,000–₹5,000 for two people.

Overall, the cost comes to about ₹25,000–₹30,000 for two people travelling in a car. A bike trip will reduce fuel and toll expenses, making it cheaper.

Delhi to Goa Road Trip Itinerary

A suggested Delhi to Goa road trip itinerary for travellers who want to balance driving and sightseeing could look like this:

Day 1: Delhi to Udaipur (670 km, 11–12 hours)

• Start early from Delhi.
• Stop at Jaipur for breakfast or sightseeing if time permits.
• Reach Udaipur by evening and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola.
• Tourist attractions in Udaipur: City Palace, Jag Mandir, Saheliyon Ki Bari.

Day 2: Udaipur to Mumbai (760 km, 13–14 hours)

• Drive through Ahmedabad and Surat.
• Food lovers can take breaks in Ahmedabad for Gujarati thalis or in Surat for snacks.
• Arrive in Mumbai late evening.
• Things to do in Mumbai: Marine Drive walk, visit the Gateway of India, and try street food at Chowpatty.

Day 3: Mumbai to Goa (590 km, 10–11 hours)

• Leave Mumbai early to avoid traffic.
• Drive via NH66 along the Konkan coast for scenic views.
• Reach Goa by evening and check into a villa in Goa or a resort.

Optional Alternative Route (via Indore and Nashik)

• Day 1: Delhi to Indore (820 km, 13–14 hours). Evening visit to Sarafa Bazaar for local food.
• Day 2: Indore to Nashik (410 km, 7–8 hours). Wine tasting in Sula Vineyards.
• Day 3: Nashik to Goa (540 km, 10–11 hours). Scenic ghats and winding roads before reaching Goa.

Weather in Goa

Planning the trip according to the weather in Goa makes the experience more enjoyable.

• Summer (March–May): Hot and humid, with temperatures around 35°C.
  
• Monsoon (June–September): Heavy rainfall; roads are scenic, but driving may take longer.
  
• Winter (October–February): The best time to visit Goa, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 28°C. This is also the peak season for tourism, with festivals and beach activities.
  

Best Time to Visit Goa

The best time to visit Goa is between November and February. The weather is pleasant, the beaches are lively, and many cultural events take place during this time, including Christmas and New Year celebrations.

For those who prefer fewer crowds and lower costs, October and March are also good months for a Delhi to Goa trip.

Things to Do in Goa

Once travellers reach their destination, there are plenty of experiences waiting:

• Beaches: Baga, Anjuna, Palolem, and Morjim are among the most visited.
  
• Heritage Attractions: Churches of Old Goa, Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort.
  
• Adventure Sports: Parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving.
  
• Food Experiences: Local seafood, Goan curries, and beachside shacks.
  
• Nature Walks: Spice plantations and butterfly conservatories.
  

These varied things to do in Goa make the long road journey worth it.

Accommodation in Goa

From beach huts to luxury resorts, Goa has it all. Travellers looking for privacy and comfort often choose a villa in Goa, which provides more space, often comes with a private pool, and is ideal for groups or families. Many villas are located near beaches or in quieter villages, making them perfect for a relaxed stay after a long road journey.

Tips for a Smooth Delhi to Goa Trip

• Start early each day to cover maximum distance before nightfall.
  
• Keep documents handy, including a driving licence, vehicle papers, and a FASTag for tolls.
  
• Pack snacks and water, especially for stretches between towns.
  
• Plan fuel stops in advance on longer routes.
  
• Book accommodation in advance, especially in Udaipur, Mumbai, or Indore if following the suggested itinerary.
  

Explore the Delhi to Goa Road Trip in a Whole New Way

A Delhi to Goa road trip is not just about reaching the coast but about experiencing a cross-country journey filled with history, food, and diverse cultures. With multiple route options, the flexibility of choosing stopovers, and countless attractions along the way, the drive is as memorable as the destination itself.

Whether taking the best route from Delhi to Goa by car via Udaipur and Mumbai or choosing the shortest route from Delhi to Goa by road through Indore and Nashik, both paths guarantee variety and excitement. The overall Delhi to Goa road trip cost is reasonable compared to the experiences it delivers.

Once in Goa, with pleasant weather in Goa, plenty of things to do in Goa, and the option of staying in a villa in Goa, the journey truly feels complete. For travellers looking to combine adventure, comfort, and culture, few road journeys in India can match the experience of going to Goa by road from Delhi.

Banner image credits: Dilip Bheda via WordPress Photo

Written By: Ruben Saha