Betul Beach

Cozy… that’s the feel you get when you hit Betul. This small (small when compared to other beaches in Salcete taluka) strip of a beach hosted by the village of Betul was first put on the international map when the five star resort of Betul set up shop here a couple of decades ago. A predominantly fishing community makes up for Betul.

It makes for a picturesque setting, when trawlers leave for their catch in the late sluggish afternoon off the Mobor harbor, a small distance from Betul beach. The Betul village is flanked by the gentle Sal River which empties into the Arabian Sea off this coast.

Weather

The sun stays wherever you stay in Goa. That’s one thing you can’t run away from, unless you hit Goa during the rains. The weather alters only during the monsoons between mid May and September. Else, be prepared for a 33 degrees Celsius summer with a maximum temperature of 39 degrees. Winters are almost nonexistent.

Best time to visit:

Goa’s great is summers and winters but if beaches are not your only poison, its superlative in the monsoons. Conventionally popular visiting months are from October to March.

GETTING THERE / Route Information

By Bus

From the Margao bus terminus, there are several buses heading straight for Betul. It’s a distance of about 22 km. You could even board a bus to Chinchinim, which would drop you at Betul village, which adjoins the beach.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Margao and that’s about 22 km away. You would need to get to the Margao bus stand and board a bus headed for Betul from there on.

Pictures of Betul Beach

 

Major attractions

Being a slightly ‘off the mainstream’ beach Betul does not offer you the buzz which people are used to seeing on Goan beaches. But what it does offer you is a certain degree of tranquil. Its one of those places which makes perfect postcard backdrops. A secluded sandy stretch fringed with coconut palms against the rocky outcropping.

The beach is very popular amongst the local populace of Salcete for this very reason.

The view of the Mobor peninsula from the hillock, which overlooks Betul, is worth its weight in gold.

Vital Tourist Information

Hotel availability

Though small, Betul offers a modest range of accommodation for tourists. So accommodation is not an issue. But if you are staying put here, please do not miss out on the range of cheap, but extraordinary fish, which the restaurants have on fare here. Having a sizeable fishing jetty in the region has its advantages.

Local Transport

Motorcycle

The most preferred mode of transport is a motorcycle pilot, which are in effect two wheeler taxis, driven by licenced riders, who can transport one individual at a time.

Rent-a-bike

This is the latest addition to the transport modes in Goa and has become an instant hit. These self-driven yellow-letters-on-black number plate two wheelers or four wheelers can be sourced from the hotel you are put up in.

Taxis

Taxis, although are easily available during the peak season, the rates charged are exorbitant. Try hardball bargaining.

Nearest known city

Madgaon, 25 km approx.

Contacts in case of contingency

Police:	Maina Curtorim police station. Tel: (0832)-2722687
Hospitals:	Kerkar hospital. Tel: (0832) – 2702777, 2735776