When you live in Arambol, Goa, and need to reach Kolkata, it’s not just a trip — it’s a story. My partner recently made this long journey for work, and what started as a practical travel plan soon turned into an experience filled with landscapes, conversations, and the small surprises that only India’s roads and railways can offer.
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Leaving Arambol: The Local Way
The adventure began early morning at Arambol bus stand, with the soft sound of the sea still echoing behind him. A local bus rolled in, colorful and noisy, headed for Mapusa — about an hour’s journey through coconut groves, sleepy villages, and the crisp air of North Goa.
From Mapusa, he switched to another bus bound for Panjim, Goa’s breezy capital, and then one more to Vasco da Gama.
All told, the trip took about four hours, including the waiting time between buses — not the fastest route, but definitely the most immersive. The joy of this kind of travel lies in the details: the chatter of locals, the honking rhythm of Goan roads, and the feeling of being part of everyday life rather than rushing past it.
For those who prefer the train from Pernem, it’s indeed closer to Arambol. But there’s a catch — no public transport connects the railway station to the village. You’d have to take a taxi (₹700–₹1000), which makes the Vasco route a bit more budget-friendly, if slightly longer.
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A Stopover in Vasco
He reached Vasco da Gama by late afternoon, but his train — the Amravati–Kolkata Express — wasn’t scheduled to depart until the next morning. Instead of spending a restless night at the station, he checked into a simple, affordable BnB nearby. Vasco isn’t glamorous, but it’s practical: small eateries, friendly locals, and plenty of budget stay options within walking distance of the railway station.
An early night’s rest was worth it — the train would leave at sunrise, and a 40-hour journey lay ahead.
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40 Hours Across India
At 6:30 a.m., the Amravati–Kolkata Express rolled out of Vasco, beginning its long, beautiful ride across India.
Through Karnataka, the train passed lush forests and distant waterfalls shimmering in the morning light. Andhra Pradesh brought flat green fields and glimpses of village life through open carriage windows. By the time the train skirted Chilika Lake in Odisha, the view outside turned into a mirror of sky and water — a scene you could watch for hours.
One important note for travelers: there’s no pantry car on this train. Pack enough food and water or be ready to stock up during the longer halts. With some planning, though, it’s a surprisingly comfortable and scenic ride.
After nearly two days, the train finally reached Shalimar Railway Station in Kolkata around 11:30 p.m. — tired, yes, but also a little awed by how much of India one train can reveal.
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The Return Home: Choosing Madgaon
On his way back, he decided to get off at Madgaon instead of Vasco — a decision that saved him both time and energy. From Madgaon, it’s easy to find buses heading toward Panjim, then Mapusa, and finally Arambol. By 7 p.m., he was home again, greeted by wagging tails and the familiar sound of waves.
Had he continued to Vasco, it would have meant another night away and an early morning bus. Sometimes, the trick to smart travel is knowing where not to go all the way.
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The Takeaway
This wasn’t just a business trip; it was a reminder of what travel in India really means — imperfect, unpredictable, but deeply alive. From the crowded Goan buses to the endless rail tracks winding through forests and lakes, every leg of the journey had its own rhythm.
If you’re ever planning the trip between Kolkata and Goa, take it slow. Skip the flights for once. Board that long train. Watch the country change outside your window — and let the journey itself become the destination.
Chilika Lake
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