What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear Goa? Parties, yes. But did you know that not all of Goa is known for partying? This is a popular misconception that the state of Goa is a lot more than just parties and New Year celebrations. And it’s about time the title of party capital is crowned specifically in North Goa because South Goa is the more silent and tranquil sister, whereas North Goa is the more happening one.
As high on energy and events as Goa is, it is also one of the states where transportation still poses a problem. With no effective yet super expensive local transportation, you might find the commute to be a hurdle to your trip. However, the GTDC has come up with a solution that kills two birds with one stone – the HOHO (Hop On Hop Off) bus service! Read all about it here!
What Is The Go Goa Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour?
The Goa Tourism Development Corporation Ltd (GTDC), along with Prive Tourism Private Limited, have launched a new service that’ll let you explore all of North Goa in just INR 600. They have officially partnered with GTDC to provide a more convenient transport system for tourists called the HOHO Goa Bus service.
The Go Goa Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours or HOHO Goa is an initiative of this collaboration and the aim is to make your experience in Goa a lot more memorable, comfortable, pocket-friendly- basically holistic!
How Does It Work?
Are you already interested and ready to take a tour on the Goa Hop On Hop Off bus? Well, then, without wasting time, let’s discuss how you can book the tickets and begin your ride!
There are two packages available, depending on the number of days you wish to tour–either a one-day or a two-day tour. You can book your tickets for the same through the official websites of GTDC and Go Goa Hop On Hop Off. Don’t worry if you can’t book tickets online because you can always purchase tickets on the bus itself, without paying any extra charges!
After booking, you’ll receive the confirmation on your phone through SMS, WhatsApp, and email. Once you reach Goa, you can collect your passes from a guide on the bus and begin your adventure!
These buses will stop at every tourist attraction so you can explore at your convenience. And don’t panic if the bus leaves because there’s always going to be another one on its way. You can hop on any of the buses as long as you have your pass with you, so make sure you visit each spot for as long as you want, because you certainly won’t be lost.
Where Does The HOHO Bus Go?
HOHO buses will operate in North Goa. You’ll find these buses running from one tourist spot to another. But if you want to visit only a few of the places and not all of them, then you can choose from two designated routes.
Route 1: Red Line
Are you one of those who want to visit Goa but still go to sleep at a decent hour instead of partying like there’s no tomorrow? Then you must purchase the Red Line ticket of the Go Goa Hop On and Hop Off bus because the buses on this line will offer you just that.
The Red Line is a dedicated route for exploring the temples and churches. The religious spots in Goa have great stories to tell you, so be attentive! These places hold really interesting histories, which make them must-visit stops in North Goa. Not only will the buses take you there, but the guide on the bus will also tell you the history and significance of the attraction.
Places covered: Dona Paula, Santa Monica Cruise Terminal, Ribandar Ferry, Old Goa Churches, Mangeshi Temple, among other places.
Route 2: Blue Line
If you’re one of those who associate North Goa only with partying and ruins of ancient forts (thanks, Bollywood!), the Blue Line awaits you.
The Blue Line is a dedicated route for exploring all the beaches and forts in North Goa. You can hop off at any of the beaches in Goa and party and enjoy till you drop. And when you’re finally exhausted from all the partying, get on a bus on the Blue Line and head to the forts in North Goa and relax in serene surroundings.
Places covered: Fort Aguada, Calangute Beach, Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Chapora Fort, among others.
Features Of HOHO Goa
- Guide: If it’s the first time you’re visiting North Goa and don’t know the places to visit, fret not. There’ll be a guide on the bus to help you navigate through and will also enlighten you on the historical significance of the forts, churches, or whatever location you’re at.
- Double Deck Bus: This is an open double-deck bus. Confused? What it means is that it’s a double deck bus with the upper section being open so you can enjoy the breeze while exploring Goa. In case it gets too hot up there, you can always come down and relax in the air-conditioned lower section.
- Live GPS: You can always find your way back home or to the next stop with the GPS tracker on the bus.
To Be Introduced Soon
- Dinner Boat Cruise: GTDC, in partnership with Prive Tourism, will launch a luxurious cruise along with dinner for you to have the perfect night in Goa.
- Evening Boat Cruise: You’ll soon get to experience the breathtaking views of the sea and sunset while being in the middle of the sea with their evening boat cruise.
- Goa Duck Tour: This will be a unique experience with their amphibious bus tour along the Mandovi River towards Old Goa.
Summing Up
HOHO Goa is a great initiative to save you from the cumbersome process of looking for a taxi or renting a scooter. With this bus service, you’ll feel like you’ve left a lot of baggage (and money) back home because now you can hop on a bus with less than INR 1,000 and enjoy a lot more!
FAQs
What Is The Price Of A Go Goa Hop On Hop Off Bus Ticket?
The ticket price for touring on the Go Goa Hop On Hop Off bus for 1 day is INR 600. For 2 days, it is INR 1,200. No ticket is needed for children until the age of 3, however valid ID proof is required for the same.
Where Can I Avail The Bus Tickets?
You can buy tickets online from their official website or through the official website of the Goa Tourism Department Corporation (GTDC).
Do The Tour Buses Offer Hotel Pick-Up/Drop?
No, they don’t. But that shouldn’t be a hassle, as most of the stops are located close to the hotels.
Will We Get A Seat Number Or A Confirmed Seat Upon Booking?
Booking a ticket for the Go Goa Hop on Hop Off bus indicates that you’ve confirmed your travel. The availability of seats however is based on first cum first service.
If I Book A 2 Day Ticket On Sunday Can I Use The Same Ticket For Tuesday?
No. The ticket is applicable only for consecutive days and not alternate days.
How Much Time Do You Provide At Each Spot For Sightseeing, And How Long Will The Bus Wait?
You can explore a particular tourist attraction for as long as you want, as there is no time limit provided. Even if the bus happens to leave, you can hop on to the next Go Goa Hop Hop Off bus as long as you have your pass with you.
