Goa to Karwar Road Trip Guide - Scenic Route, Attractions & Tips

Why Choose Karwar for a Road Trip from Goa?

Karwar is a lesser-known gem located in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district, about 90 km south of Goa. Often overshadowed by its popular neighbor, Karwar boasts unspoiled beaches, tranquil backwaters, hill viewpoints, ancient forts, and river estuaries. It’s a destination that gives you the feel of Goa—but without the hustle.

What Makes Karwar Special?

• Devbagh Beach – A quiet island beach accessible by boat

• Sadashivgad Fort – A scenic riverside fort near the Kali River

• Rabindranath Tagore Beach – Where the poet found creative inspiration

• Authentic Coastal Cuisine – Karwari fish curry, Bangda fry, Neer Dosa

• Tilmati Black Sand Beach – A unique beach with volcanic black sand

Add to that the breathtaking drive itself—lush green forests, coconut groves, and glimpses of the Arabian Sea make this road trip spectacular.

Best Time for a Goa to Karwar Road Trip

Timing your trip is key to enjoying the journey and the destination.

Recommended: Plan your trip between October and February for the best beach weather.

Best Route from Goa to Karwar (with Map)

• Total Distance: Approx. 90 km
• Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours (without stops)

Route Overview:

Goa (Panaji or North Goa) → NH66 via Margao → Canacona → Polem Checkpost (Goa-Karnataka border) → Karwar

Route Breakdown:

1. Start from Panaji or North Goa

2. Head south on NH66, passing through Margao and Cuncolim

3. Continue past Canacona (near Palolem Beach)

4. Cross the Goa-Karnataka border at Polem (expect a brief security check)

5. Drive into Karwar Town, just 12 km ahead

The drive hugs the western coastline, with intermittent views of the Arabian Sea and glimpses of rural life.

Ideal Itinerary: One-Day to Two-Day Plan

Depending on your schedule, here are two itinerary options:

Option 1: One-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Morning:

• 7:00 AM: Depart from Goa

• 9:00 AM: Reach Karwar, enjoy breakfast at local restaurant (try Hotel Amrut)

• 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Visit Sadashivgad Fort & Kali River Bridge (great photo spots)

Midday:

• 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM: Take a boat ride to Devbagh Beach (enjoy water sports or relax)

• 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Lunch at a beach shack or Karwar town (seafood thali is a must)

Afternoon:

• 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Relax at Rabindranath Tagore Beach

• 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Optional visit to Tilmati Beach (requires a short hike)

Evening:

• 6:00 PM: Start drive back to Goa

• 8:00 PM: Arrive in Goa

Option 2: Two-Day Itinerary (with Stay)

Day 1:

• Follow the above plan until 5:30 PM

• 6:00 PM: Check-in at a beachside stay like Devbagh Beach Resort or Sterling Karwar

• 7:00 PM: Dinner by the beach under the stars

Day 2:

• 6:30 AM: Sunrise walk on Devbagh or Tagore Beach

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast at resort

• 9:30 AM: Visit Kurumgad Island (accessible by boat)

• 12:30 PM: Return and enjoy lunch

• 2:00 PM: Begin return journey to Goa

Top Places to Visit in Karwar

Here are some must-see attractions that add value to your trip:

Sadashivgad Fort

• Located on a hill overlooking the Kali River

• Great panoramic views, especially during sunset

Devbagh Beach

• Calm, isolated island beach

• Reachable by boat from Kodibag Jetty

• Perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, or reading under palm trees

Rabindranath Tagore Beach

• Named after the Nobel laureate who stayed in Karwar

• Ideal for evening walks, kids' play area nearby

Tilmati Beach (Black Sand Beach)

• Unusual black volcanic sand

• Accessible via a scenic walk from Majali village

Kurumgad Island

• Tortoise-shaped island with a ruined fort and temple

• Boating tours available from Devbagh Beach

What to Eat in Karwar – Local Food Guide

Karwar’s coastal cuisine is a flavorful mix of Konkani and Karwari traditions. If you're a seafood lover, you're in for a treat.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Karwari Fish Curry – Made with coconut and tamarind

• Bangda (Mackerel) Fry – Crispy and spicy

• Prawn Sukka – Dry coconut prawn dish

• Neer Dosa – Thin rice crepes

• Solkadi – Cool digestive drink made from kokum and coconut milk

Recommended Restaurants:

• Hotel Amrut (Karwar Town) – Famous for seafood

• Swetha Lunch Home – Homestyle coastal meals

• Devbagh Beach Resort Dining – Great for beachfront meals

Where to Stay in Karwar

If you plan to stay overnight, here are top accommodation options:

Luxury & Mid-Range:

• Devbagh Beach Resort – Cottages on a secluded beach, water sports available

• Sterling Karwar – Scenic location with family-friendly amenities

• Aditi Comforts – Budget hotel in Karwar town, clean and convenient

Hidden Gems En Route from Goa to Karwar

Want to make your journey more exciting? Here are lesser-known stops to add to your itinerary:

Palolem Beach (Canacona, Goa)

Before leaving Goa, enjoy a sunrise view or a breakfast by the beach.

Polem Beach

Last beach in Goa, untouched and quiet. Ideal for a peaceful swim or quick break.

Galgibaga Beach

Known for Olive Ridley turtle nesting. Clean and rarely crowded.

Conclusion: Why This Road Trip is Totally Worth It

The Goa to Karwar road trip is one of those rare journeys that blend coastal charm, cultural richness, and scenic beauty—without demanding much time or money. In just a few hours’ drive, you’re transported from Goa’s buzzing beaches to Karwar’s peaceful shores and forested hills.

Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or on a family adventure, Karwar delivers relaxation and exploration in perfect balance. So fuel up, turn on your road trip playlist, and get ready to discover one of India’s best short-distance coastal escapes!