How to get to Belagavi

Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Belagavi (also known as Belgaum) attracts travellers with its pleasant climate, historic forts, and rich cultural heritage. When planning how to reach Belagavi, tourists can choose a convenient flight, a scenic train journey, or a road trip across India. This city serves as a major regional transport hub, making it easy to access from both major metropolises and neighbouring states.

The fastest way to reach the city is by air, landing at Belgaum Airport (IXG). This aviation hub receives regular flights and is located quite close to the centre, allowing you to save time on transfers.

If direct tickets are unavailable, airports in neighbouring cities are good alternatives. For instance, you can fly into Hubli-Dharwad or the tourist-friendly Vasco da Gama (Goa), located less than 100 kilometres away. Travellers also frequently choose Kolhapur as an arrival point, from where it is easy to continue the journey by ground transport.

Rail travel is one of the most popular and accessible ways to get to Belagavi. The city is served by its own railway station (Belagavi/Belgaum), which is a key junction on the line connecting major regional metropolises such as Mumbai and Bangalore.

Travelling by train allows you to enjoy views of nature, especially if you are coming from the coast, for example, from Vasco da Gama station. Convenient connections and routes also pass through the neighbouring cities of Hubli-Dharwad and Kolhapur, making the train journey comfortable and logistically simple.

The region's bus network is excellently developed, offering tourists a budget-friendly travel option. A trip from the city of Hubli-Dharwad will take just about 2.3 hours, covering a distance of 98 km. For those coming from the state of Maharashtra, the route from Kolhapur is convenient: the journey of 109 km lasts approximately 3.8 hours.

A longer but more picturesque journey awaits tourists departing from the coast of Goa, from the city of Vasco da Gama. The road, spanning about 141 km, takes around 6.7 hours and passes through beautiful landscapes, turning the transfer into a small excursion across India.

Travelling by private car or taxi offers freedom of movement and comfort. The fastest route runs from the city of Hubli-Dharwad: the distance of 94 km can be comfortably covered in 2 hours on the highway. The drive from Kolhapur (113 km) will take a little longer — about 2.4 hours.

Lovers of scenic views should choose the road from Vasco da Gama. Covering 137 km will take approximately 3.5 hours, revealing panoramas of the transition from the coast to the highlands along the way. Hiring a car with a chauffeur is a common and safe practice for such trips to Belagavi.

To make your stay in Belagavi as pleasant and safe as possible, it is worth noting a few local specifics. This city is famous for its hospitality, but knowing basic guidelines will help you adapt faster.

1. Clothing and Season. The climate here is moderate, but it can be hot during the day. Choose light clothing made of cotton or linen. Modest dress is essential when visiting temples (shoulders and knees must be covered).
2. Transport. The most convenient way to move around the city is by auto-rickshaw. Be sure to negotiate the fare in advance or ask the driver to use the meter to avoid overpaying.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Major hotels accept cards, but always carry small denomination cash for markets, transport, and small cafes.
4. Health. Drink only bottled water and check that the cap seal is intact when purchasing. Avoid ice in drinks at street establishments.
5. Communication. The main languages are Kannada and Marathi. In tourist spots, hotels, and restaurants, staff usually speak basic English.
6. Etiquette. Always remove your shoes when entering any temple or private home. A greeting with folded palms ("Namaste") is always received with respect.
7. Safety. Be mindful of personal belongings in crowded places. Avoid photographing locals, especially women, without their explicit permission.
8. Gastronomic Souvenir. You must try the famous local sweet "Kunda", made from milk and sugar — it is the city's main culinary hallmark.

By following these simple recommendations, you can avoid awkward situations and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this amazing Indian city.