When people think of Goa, the first images that come to mind are golden beaches, beach shacks serving fresh seafood, and endless parties under the stars. But beyond the coastal charm, Goa hides a world of scenic roads, lush forests, and heritage trails waiting to be explored. And the best way to experience them? By taking control of the wheel. With a good car rental in Goa, travelers can move at their own pace—stopping by quaint villages, hidden waterfalls, and sunset points that never make it to guidebooks. Whether you’re in a cozy hatchback, a convertible with the top down, or one of the many self drive cars in Calangute, Goa’s open roads invite you to experience freedom in its purest form. This blog takes you through the most scenic routes in Goa, perfect for self drive adventurers who want to explore beyond the usual beaches.
The Classic Coastal Drive: Panjim to Palolem
If you want the best of Goa’s coastal charm, start your journey from Panjim and drive all the way down to Palolem in South Goa. This drive offers the essence of Goan beauty—seaside views, quaint villages, and glimpses of local life.
Route Highlights:
Start at Miramar Beach, where the Mandovi River meets the Arabian Sea.
Pass through Dona Paula, known for its sweeping sea views.
Take the road towards Colva and Betalbatim, where coconut groves flank the roads.
End at Palolem Beach, one of South Goa’s most serene spots.
Why it’s special:
You’ll see both modern and old-world Goa blend seamlessly—Portuguese villas on one side, vast paddy fields on the other. Stop at beach shacks along the way for a quick seafood meal and watch the sun paint the sky gold.
Pro tip: Rent your vehicle from a car rental in Goa near Panjim early in the morning to avoid traffic and catch the best light for photos.
Through the Ghats: Chorla Ghat Route
For those who crave a bit of adventure and love mountain drives, Chorla Ghat is a dream come true. This route connects Goa with Karnataka and Maharashtra, cutting through dense forests and misty valleys.
Route Highlights:
Start from Mapusa or Bicholim.
Drive through lush greenery and winding ghats.
Stop by the famous Lasni Waterfall or check out the Twin Waterfalls at Chorla.
Why it’s special:
The drive offers breathtaking viewpoints, cool air, and wildlife sightings if you’re lucky. The route is perfect during monsoon or winter when everything turns emerald green.
Driving tip: Since the road has curves and inclines, it’s best to take self drive cars in Calangute with good mileage and control. Avoid night drives due to fog and limited visibility.
The River Route: Along the Mandovi
This one is for those who love slow travel. The Mandovi River flows gracefully through Goa, and driving along its banks is an experience of calm and discovery.
Route Highlights:
Begin your journey from Panjim, following the river road past the Patto Bridge.
Visit the Ribandar Causeway—one of Goa’s oldest causeways built in the 1600s.
Drive towards Divar Island via ferry.
Why it’s special:
This drive combines heritage and tranquility. The ferry ride to Divar Island adds a unique twist—you’ll find no traffic, just narrow lanes lined with Portuguese houses, mango trees, and locals greeting you with a smile.
Pro tip: For a peaceful half-day drive, start after breakfast and end with lunch at a riverside café in Old Goa.
The Spice Trail: Ponda to the Western Ghats
If you’re drawn to nature and culture, this is your route. The Ponda region is often called the cultural heart of Goa, home to spice plantations, temples, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Route Highlights:
Start in Ponda and visit the Sahakari Spice Farm or Tropical Spice Plantation.
Continue towards the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary.
If you’re up for a longer drive, head further into the Western Ghats toward Mollem National Park.
Why it’s special:
You’ll experience Goa’s lush interiors—where pepper, cardamom, and vanilla fill the air. The winding roads are peaceful and photogenic, especially during early morning.
Driving tip: Choose a compact SUV from a car rental in Goa for comfort, as some sections can be uneven or narrow.
North Goa Explorer: Calangute to Morjim
This route is perfect if you’ve rented self drive cars in Calangute and want a quick yet beautiful coastal adventure. It’s short, scenic, and packed with things to see.
Route Highlights:
Begin at Calangute Beach, then drive towards Candolim and SinQ stretch.
Follow the coast to Vagator, where cliffs meet the sea.
Continue to Morjim and Ashwem, famous for their laid-back vibe and beach cafés.
Why it’s special:
It’s a beach-hopping dream. You can stop every 15 minutes at a different beach, enjoy the breeze, or even catch a live music gig by evening.
Pro tip: Plan your drive during the golden hour for stunning views and photos. Don’t rush—Goa is best enjoyed at a slow pace.
The Hidden Hinterland Trail: Assagao to Aldona
If you’re tired of the crowds and want to see the rustic side of Goa, take this charming inland drive through North Goa’s villages.
Route Highlights:
Start from Assagao, often called the “Beverly Hills of Goa” for its beautiful homes and cafés.
Drive through Parra—the palm-lined road that became famous from Bollywood movies.
Head toward Aldona via Saligao and Ucassaim.
Why it’s special:
This is the real, authentic Goa—old Portuguese houses, tiny chapels, and lush fields. You’ll find local bakeries serving hot poi (Goan bread) and roadside taverns offering feni.
Pro tip: Stop by the Aldona Cable Bridge for a quiet sunset moment—it’s one of Goa’s most underrated spots.
The Monsoon Drive: Netravali and Cotigao
During monsoon, Goa turns into a paradise of waterfalls and mist-covered forests. The southern part of the state, especially Netravali and Cotigao, is perfect for nature lovers.
Route Highlights:
Start from Canacona or Quepem.
Drive through dense forests, small streams, and charming villages.
Stop by the Netravali Bubbling Lake and Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary.
Why it’s special:
This is Goa beyond beaches. The smell of rain-soaked soil, chirping of birds, and gushing waterfalls make it magical.
Driving tip: Roads can get slippery during rains, so it’s wise to choose a sturdy vehicle from a trusted car rental in Goa. Keep your headlights on and drive slowly.
The Heritage Loop: Old Goa to Divar and Chorao
History lovers will adore this route. Starting from Old Goa—home to centuries-old churches—you can drive to the river islands of Divar and Chorao, known for their Portuguese charm and mangrove forests.
Route Highlights:
Start from the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.
Take the ferry from Ribandar to Chorao Island.
Visit the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
Cross over to Divar Island and explore the village roads.
Why it’s special:
It’s like stepping back in time. Narrow roads, colorful houses, and friendly locals give you a glimpse of what Goa was like decades ago.
Pro tip: Early morning drives are best here for bird watching and cooler weather.
Beach to Hill Route: Anjuna to Keri via Arambol
This drive combines the best of both worlds—beaches and hills. It’s ideal for travelers who want a long, scenic day on the road.
Route Highlights:
Begin at Anjuna and head north through Chapora and Arambol.
Continue towards Keri (Querim), one of Goa’s quietest beaches.
Climb up to the Tiracol Fort via ferry.
Why it’s special:
The views change dramatically—from bustling beaches to quiet hills overlooking the sea. It’s also one of the best routes to end your day with a sunset over the fort.
Driving tip: Carry snacks and water, as this route passes through less commercialized areas.
Offbeat Adventure: Quepem to Cabo de Rama
If you crave a cinematic road experience, this one’s for you. The drive from Quepem to Cabo de Rama is full of dramatic landscapes—cliffs, forests, and ocean views.
Route Highlights:
Start at Quepem town and drive toward Canaguinim.
Stop at Cabo de Rama Fort for one of the best views in Goa.
Why it’s special:
It’s less crowded and offers pure tranquility. Standing atop Cabo de Rama, you can see the vast Arabian Sea stretching endlessly before you—a perfect spot for reflection.
Tips for the Perfect self drive Adventure in Goa
Choose the right car: Whether you pick a compact sedan or SUV, ensure it’s from a reliable car rental in Goa. Check fuel, tyres, and documentation before starting.
Avoid night driving: Many routes, especially through forests or villages, have limited lighting.
Respect local rules: Drive slowly through villages and avoid honking unnecessarily.
Stay connected: Keep your GPS handy, but also enjoy moments without screens—Goa’s charm lies in getting a little lost.
Plan fuel stops: Some interior routes don’t have petrol stations nearby.
Final Thoughts
Driving through Goa isn’t just about reaching your destination—it’s about the journey itself. Every bend in the road reveals something new—a fisherman casting his net, a church bell ringing in the distance, or kids playing football on a dusty field. Whether you pick up your self drive car in Calangute for a short coastal trip or embark on a multi-day adventure through the Western Ghats, Goa rewards those who explore it at their own pace.
