Essential information for Candolim

When to go

To make the most of Candolim‘s proximity to the coast it’s best to visit around May when temperatures frequently hit 30°C. After this, Candolim experiences a monsoon season from June to September when the beaches can experience frequent rains.

Alternatively, you can visit in the months following the monsoon season, when temperatures are slightly cooler at around 25°C but still warm enough to keep the feel of summer alive. Keep an eye out for cheap Goa holidays around this time, as well as our usual great deals through the winter.

Health and safety

Before travelling to Candolim, you’ll need to receive vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid, as well as a tetanus booster. Your doctor may also advise you receive shots to protect against Cholera, Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies. Because of the malaria risk in India, make sure you discuss your travel plans with your local GP so they can advise you on how to protect against the disease while you’re on holiday.

It’s recommended that you purchase bottled water for drinking, as water isn’t filtered in the same way as drinking water at home. Sun cream is also advisable given the hot climate.

As with any holiday, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself and family on your trip. If you’re visiting Candolim specifically to take part in sports or watersports, including hiking, you should make sure your insurance covers this.

See our holiday extras page for more information and for the latest health and safety information visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/health.

Passports and visas

In order to head off on holidays to Goa, you’ll require a visa. UK passport holders may be eligible for an e-tourist visathat you can apply and pay for online to make the process quicker and cheaper.

Alongside a visa you must have a valid passport to enter the country. By law, you must carry your passport with you and may need to show it when paying by credit card. For the most up-to- date passport and visa info, visitwww.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements.

Getting around

You’ll arrive at Goa International Airport in Dabolim, about 60 to 90 minutes away from Candolim. Most tour operators include transfers as part of a holiday package so getting to your resort is easy. Alternatively you can hire a car or hail a taxi. Public buses also run from the airport to Candolim, but these take slightly longer.

Much of the accommodation in Candolim is situated towards the west of the town, meaning the beach is only ever a few minutes’ walk away from where you’re staying. Travel within the town itself is best done via taxi, particularly when travelling from north to south or vice versa. Car rental and taxi services are available on Fort Aguada Road towards the north of Candolim.

Travelling outside of the town is easy thanks to frequent bus services to popular destinations like Mapusa, and the Goan capital Panaji. These trips only take around 15 to 20 minutes and are easy on your wallet.

Advice for travellers with children

The beach in Candolim is praised as being one of the cleanest along the Goan coastline, as well as being quieter than those of Calangute and Baga Beach further north. Young children have a lot more space to play around here, while the older ones can enjoy some me-time without feeling crowded by other beach-goers.

Visitors should note that there are a lack of changing rooms and toilets at the beach, so it’s best to make sure you’re prepared before leaving your accommodation.

Many restaurants are child-friendly in Candolim and its surrounding areas, giving families plenty of options for food when you wish to venture out for a spot of lunch or evening meal. If you’re not sure about scouting out the dining options yourself, book your Goa holidays All Inclusive to make sure that family-friendly dinners are readily available for no extra charge at your hotel.

Electricity

Connector type: Indian three-pin plug, type C, D and M.

Voltage Info: 220 to 240 volts

Emergency information

108 is the number in Goa for emergency situations.

For direct phone lines call: Fire services: 101 Ambulance: 102 Police: 100

You can also dial 1718 for the coastguard.

British Consulate

If you’re a victim of crime or affected by a crisis overseas, or if something happens to a relative or partner, contact the British Consulate in nearby Panaji.

Address: 303-304 Casa del Sol, Miramar, Goa, Panaji 403001

Email: consular.goa@fco.gov.uk

Phone (from within India): +91 832 6636 777 Phone (from the UK): 020 7008 1500

Hospital

Towards the north of Candolim there are a selection of healthcare facilities. Bosio Hospital is recommended for its reasonable pricing, while Dr. Dukle’s in Calangute houses a popular pharmacy.

Bosio Hospital Address: Pilern-Candolim Road, Pintos Waddo, Candolim, Goa 403515 Phone: +91 832 248 9034

Dr. Dukle’s Hospital and Research Centre Address: Aguade-Calangute Road, Candolim, Bardez, Goa 403515 Phone: +91 832 248 9333