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Goa, India’s beloved beach paradise, is served primarily by one international airport, Dabolim Airport, also known as Goa International Airport. The airports in Goa are the gateway for millions of tourists visiting Goa’s sun-kissed beaches and vibrant culture each year. It handles both domestic and international flights, connecting Goa to major Indian cities and several international destinations. The airport, operated by the Indian Navy, shares its runways with INS Hansa, a naval air station. A new airport, Mopa International Airport, opened in January 2023, providing an additional entry point for visitors and easing the pressure on Dabolim during peak tourist seasons.
Location
Photo: Yeskay1211 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Dabolim Airport (GOI) is located in Vasco da Gama, South Goa, approximately 29 km southwest of the state capital, Panaji. It’s situated near the coast, about 4 km from Bogmalo Beach. Mopa International Airport (GOX), also known as New Goa International Airport, is located in Mopa village in North Goa, about 35 km north of Panaji. It’s situated inland, approximately 35 km from popular North Goan beach destinations like Vagator and Anjuna, and about 70 km north of Dabolim Airport.
Airports In Goa
Goa, the popular beach destination on India’s western coast, is served by two airports:
1. Dabolim Airport (Goa International Airport)
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
Dabolim Airport, also known as Goa International Airport, has been the primary gateway to Goa for decades. Located in the village of Dabolim in South Goa, this airport has a unique characteristic: it’s operated by the Indian Navy and shares its runways with INS Hansa, a naval air station. This dual-use arrangement means that civilian flights operate within specific time slots, working around naval operations. The airport has a single integrated terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. It’s equipped with modern amenities including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and currency exchange facilities.
Distance From The City: Airport Rd, Dabolim, Goa 403801
2. Mopa International Airport (Goa Manohar International Airport)
Photo: viarami / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Mopa International Airport, officially named Goa Manohar International Airport, is the newest addition to Goa’s aviation infrastructure. Inaugurated in January 2023, this greenfield airport is located in Mopa in North Goa. It was built to address the increasing air traffic to Goa and to provide an alternative to the capacity-constrained Dabolim Airport. The airport is designed to handle 4.4 million passengers annually in its first phase, with plans to expand its capacity to 13.1 million passengers per year by the fourth phase. Mopa Airport primarily handles domestic flights at present, connecting Goa to major Indian cities.
Location: Taluka Pernem, Mopa, Goa 403512
Where To Stay
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When visiting Goa, staying near the airports can be convenient for travellers. Near Dabolim Airport, you’ll find a range of accommodation options in the nearby towns of Vasco da Gama and Bogmalo. These areas offer a mix of budget-friendly guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and a few upscale resorts. Bogmalo Beach, just 4 km from the airport, is a popular spot with several beachfront hotels. In Vasco da Gama, about 5 km away, you’ll find more urban lodging options and easy access to local amenities. However, the popular beach towns of North Goa, like Morjim, Ashvem, and Arambol, are within a 30 – 45 minute drive.
Where To Eat
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Goa offers a rich culinary landscape that blends local Goan flavours with Portuguese influences. For authentic Goan cuisine, head to local shacks along popular beaches like Baga or Calangute, where you can savour spicy vindaloo, tangy fish curry rice, and fresh seafood. In Panaji, the capital, explore the Latin Quarter of Fontainhas for charming cafes and traditional Goan-Portuguese restaurants. For a more upscale dining experience, visit the upmarket restaurants in North Goa’s beach towns like Anjuna and Vagator. Street food enthusiasts should explore local markets for treats like chorizo pao (spicy sausage in bread) or bebinca (a layered dessert).
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Goa is generally from November to February. During these months, the weather is pleasantly cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 32°C. This period offers ideal conditions for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor explorations. October and March are shoulder months, still good for visiting, but with increasing humidity. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, making it less suitable for beach holidays. However, this period offers lush green landscapes and is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more affordable Goa experience.
Tips For Travellers
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- Goa’s peak tourist season (October to March) can lead to crowded airports and longer wait times, especially at the more established Dabolim Airport.
- Mopa Airport, being newer, may have fewer taxi and public transport options compared to Dabolim. Pre-booking airport transfers can be advisable.
- Dabolim is closer to South Goa’s beaches and heritage sites, while Mopa provides easier access to North Goa’s popular beach towns and nightlife areas.
The airports in Goa, Dabolim and Mopa, offer travellers diverse options for accessing this popular destination. While Dabolim has long been the primary gateway, Mopa’s recent addition expands capacity and opens up North Goa. Together, these airports enhance Goa’s connectivity, supporting its thriving tourism industry and economic growth. As you plan your next trip to Goa, let TripXL shoulder the burden of bookings and the best deals.
Cover Photo: keithmavor / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
