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Mapusa is Goa’s main market town,
the administrative capital of Bardez Taluka, 13 km south of Panjim. Mapusa
is a small town, with a cross section of commercial and residential
establishments.
Mapusa is close to one of the main centres of Goa's
tourism industry. Mapusa's proximity to many beaches in the north Goa makes
it a suitable base during the tourist season (November to April). Because it
is a mainly commercial town (for locals) with a large resident population,
Mapusa has only a limited number of hotels and accommodation.
Mapusa offers a wide range of
sightseeing options ranging from lively bazaars to historical forts that are
a visual delight. The Mapusa Bazaar is a vivid way of savouring the delights
of a rural market and picking up authentic Goa ware. The whole town comes
alive with the spirited call of vendors pedalling their goods, and with the
colourful stacks of fresh fruit and spices piled up on the dusty pavements.
Your nostrils are assailed with the intense fragrance of incense and
sandalwood, of fresh fish and aromatic spices.
The nearest airport is
Goa International Airport,
located at Dabolim, 38 km from Mapusa. The Airport has a number of domestic
flights coming in from major Indian cities and chartered flights from
European destinations. From the Airport, pre-paid cabs and shared taxis are
available for Mapusa and the resorts around Mapusa.
The nearest railhead to Mapusa is Margaon. From there taxis are easily
available for Mapusa.
Mapusa is 15 km from the capital, Panaji, a bus journey of 30 minutes.
Mapusa is a convenient base for reaching the beaches of Anjuna, Calangute,
Vagator, Chapora and Baga, and it is fairly close to Arambol and Margao. It
is especially convenient for tourists coming in by bus from neighbouring
states of Maharashtra and Karnataka.
The Kadamba Bus Terminal in Mapusa's main square is an important junction
for both private and State Transport buses coming in from Mumbai (17 hours),
Pune (14 hours) and Bangalore (14 hours). Buses are also available for
Belgaum, Hubli, Pune and Mangalore. Buses and minibuses from most towns of
Goa terminate at Mapusa; from here you can get onward connections to other
places in the state. These roadways buses connect Mapusa to the Panaji,
Margao, Vasco, Ponda and other towns and villages in the state.
Mapusa Quick Facts
State: Goa
Languages: English, Konkani and Hindi
STD Code: 0832
Weather: Summer 23°C to 40°C; Winter 15°C to 33°C
Best Season: Winter; October to April
Famous For: Beaches |
