Manohar International Airport

Overview

Manohar International Airport, also known as Mopa Airport, is Goa’s second international airport, designed to relieve the older Dabolim Airport and meet growing demand for air travel to this popular coastal state. Located in the northernmost part of Goa, it primarily serves leisure travellers heading to the beaches of North Goa, as well as business visitors and local residents. The airport handles both domestic and international flights, and its modern infrastructure aims to provide a seamless experience from check-in to baggage claim. Since its opening, it has become a key gateway for tourists from across India and abroad, offering efficient connectivity to the region’s many attractions.

Location & Access

Manohar International Airport is situated in Mopa, in the Pernem taluka of North Goa district. It lies approximately 35–40 kilometres north of the state capital, Panaji (Panjim), and about 60 kilometres from the city of Vasco da Gama, which houses the older Dabolim airport. The airport is easily accessible via National Highway 66 and well-maintained state roads. For travellers heading to popular beach destinations such as Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, and Vagator, the drive typically takes 40 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The airport also serves the southern parts of Maharashtra, with the town of Sawantwadi and the coastal belt of Sindhudurg about 50–70 kilometres away. A new railway station at Pernem, located roughly 10 kilometres from the airport, provides an alternative transport link for those arriving by train. Prepaid taxis, app-based cabs, and rental cars are readily available from the terminal. Parking is available on site but is a paid facility only.

Facilities

Manohar International Airport offers a range of amenities focused on accessibility and passenger comfort. The terminal is fully wheelchair-accessible, with dedicated car parking spaces, level entrances, spacious seating areas, and accessible toilets. Wheelchair rental is available for those who need it, and an assistive hearing loop aids passengers with hearing impairments. The airport is committed to inclusivity and is marked as LGBTQ+ friendly.

General facilities include clean and well-maintained toilets, baby changing tables, and baggage storage services for those who wish to explore Goa without their luggage. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected while waiting for flights. The airport also provides several seating options and a staffed information desk. For those arriving or departing, paid parking is the only parking option, with short-term and long-term spaces. Note that the terminal is not open 24 hours a day; operations align with flight schedules, and the building may be closed overnight when no flights are scheduled.

About the Region

Goa is India’s smallest state by area but one of its most visited, renowned for its stunning coastline along the Arabian Sea, Portuguese colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. The northern part of the state, served by Mopa Airport, is particularly famous for its long sandy beaches, water sports, nightlife, and beach shacks. Beyond the coast, the Western Ghats rise inland, offering lush spice plantations, wildlife sanctuaries like Bhagwan Mahavir, and trekking trails. Goa’s heritage includes 16th-century churches (many UNESCO-listed), forts such as Fort Aguada and Chapora, and colourful festivals like Carnival and Shigmo. The region’s economy relies heavily on tourism, but also on mining, agriculture (cashew, coconut, spices), and small-scale industries. Travellers to North Goa can easily combine beach relaxation with cultural sightseeing, making the area a year-round destination.

Practical Information

The airport is not open 24 hours; its terminal operates during flight hours, so passengers should plan their arrival accordingly and avoid arriving overnight if no flights are scheduled. Peak times for passenger traffic are around 9:00 am and 10:00 am. For enquiries, the airport can be contacted at +91 832 249 9999, and the official website is https://www.miagoaairport.com. The website provides real-time flight information, details on services, and updates on any changes. Travellers are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport. While the airport does not offer on-site accommodation, many hotels in nearby beach towns provide easy access. For those driving, navigation apps offer accurate directions to the terminal.