Benaulim, Varca and Cavelossim to Palolem, Agonda and Canacona
Your options
Ways to make the journey
1 h 10 min
The fast route follows the NH66 south from Margao through the hills of Canacona to Chaudi and Palolem. The scenic route crosses the Sal at Cavelossim and follows the coast through Assolna and Betul to Cabo de Rama fort, then on to Agonda and Palolem, adding about 30 minutes plus time at the fort.
45 min + transfers
Konkan Railway trains run from Madgaon to Canacona, 3 km from Palolem, in about 45 minutes. Only some trains stop at Canacona. It is a pretty line through the hills, but the car is simpler with luggage.
1 h 40 min
From Dabolim Airport (GOI), Palolem is about 70 km and 1 h 40 min by car. Guests heading straight to the far south can go direct, then move north to Benaulim or Cavelossim for the second half of the trip.
Worth a stop
- Assolna and Betul fishing villages
- Cabo de Rama fort
- Agonda beach
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How long is the drive from Benaulim to Palolem?
About 1 h 10 min for 42 km on the NH66. The coastal route via Cabo de Rama takes about 1 h 40 min without stops. From Cavelossim, the coast road is the more natural choice.
Is it worth splitting a south Goa stay between Benaulim and Palolem?
Yes, for stays of six nights or more. Benaulim is close to the mansions and Margao; Palolem has the prettiest bays, Cotigao forest and the quiet beaches of the far south. Three nights in each works well.
Can you visit Palolem as a day trip from Benaulim?
Yes. Leave at 8 am, take a boat to Butterfly Beach, have lunch at Agonda, and visit Cabo de Rama on the way back. It makes a long but enjoyable day of about 9 hours.
Is there a train to Palolem?
Canacona station, 3 km from Palolem, is on the Konkan Railway, and some trains from Madgaon, Mumbai and Mangaluru stop there. Check current status before you travel, as stops vary by train.