train from palolem to north goa info please!!

hi all,im going to stay with wife and myself in palolem in nov,for 4 or 5 nights,then plan on going to baga /calangute for 7 or 8 nights.as opposed to getting a taxi ,would it be possible to get a train instead,never been on a train before in india,weve always stayed in one area when weve been there,how long on train,costs,where to get train from,etc...thanks for any advice offered guys.

There is one direct train to Thivim from Cancona but it's very early in the morning at 05.12
Failing that you would need to change at Margao, then of course you have to get to Calangute from Thivim.

You'll have no problem getting a taxi to take you to thivim even that early!

There are a few trains that run from Canacona to Karmali/Thivim. You will have to cab it to Calangute from Thivim railway station or change buses at Mapusa. Rail tickets can be bought here www.cleartrip.com

He needs to get FROM Thivim, and taxis tend to congregate when a train is arriving (not one that has only travelled a few miles on its journey)

Realistically, using a train to travel short distances in Goa doesnt work, the system is not geared to it. Also on such a short trip you will not really get the railway experience, the food, the changing terrain etc etc.

If you dont want to use the (extortionate) taxis, get yourself to Margao and do the bus to Panjim then on Calangute. (incidentally, Thivim is as far from Cal as Panjim, if not further)
This will be an adventure in itself, especially if you are lugging your holiday baggage with you

or do what i would do which is avoid Calungute like the plague and stay in palolem. at that early season you don't need to make plans. Stay put if you are loving it, move on if you're not.

Here are you trains from south to north Goa changing at Madgoan junction.

Disagree with Musicsavedmylife2, nothing wrong with north Goa, just his personal opinion. Make up your own mind....

Train and bus is a good experience......

thanks guys for all info ,think i will do the easy thing and get a taxi when we are ready to leave palolem,thanks again guys

Based on my trip from Agonda to Arpora last Jan, I figure it should be about 2000 rs...and will save you a TON of hassle. Good plan.

To give an idea of cost:
Took the daily passenger train (2nd class, no advance booking) from Gokarna (further south than Palolem)to Margao/Madgaon for Rs23 one-way. Took about 2 hours.
My first time on Indian railways and it was a surprisingly pleasant trip, even though it was 2nd class with hard seats. Everyone friendly and a considerably better experience than many had at home in the UK!