Nomadic Lives Local, Experiential India Travel Blog
5. Mumbai – Goa – NH17
The National Highway 17, connects Panvel, near Mumbai to Kochi, in a 1296 KM long stretch. The country’s 7th longest highway, the route passes through the coastal states of Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala & Karnataka. More commonly known as the Bombay-Goa highway, the 582 KM long stretch from Panvel to Panjim is one of the prettiest roads around the country.
Winding through beautiful rural wilderness for most parts, the NH17 is a challenging task for most accomplished drivers – the narrow Ghats overlooking steep valleys can be a real handful and needs a steady hand. The view is generally brilliant throughout the drive with lush greenery and a whiff of sea-breeze just around the corner at all times. Road is a 2-car pass for most part but almost always in top condition. You can maintain a breezy speed but always be mindful of the hairpin curves. When you finally get to Goa, do read about my recent trip to the place for some handy tips and stories at Playing the Guide in Goa .
Route – Mumbai – Panvel – Khed – Dapoli – Ratnagiri – Sindhudurg – Sawantwadi – Pernem – Panjim
Great post! India isn’t a country I would think of doing a road trip in but these routes sound great! Awesome photos as well- love the windy paths!
Hannah,
you’re right in a way – driving in India can be a challenge in
itself; especially the urban areas! I know so many westerners who marvel
at the way locals drive in this country, but some of these routes are
really breath-taking, you must try some day 🙂
Beautiful! I have only been to Northern India to date, but this post makes me want to explore a lot more of it!
Interesting! I wouldn’t think to be road tripping through India. We will be visiting India for 2-3 months in February, so nice to see what our options are for getting around.
great idea for a post! India is not the country one thinks in relation to road trips, but there are some amazing ones to do!
Awesome! I have only been to South part India – Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Vizag. This post makes me want to explore more in India!