Amarkantak Express: Holy for Railfans as holy as Amarkantak is for devotees. - Ayan G

Yo, what's the closest station to get to Panjim, the big shot spot in Goa for government offices and major academies? It's also a hot spot to check out the Mangeshi temple, Bom Jesus Basilica, Bambolim, Candolim, Miramar, Dona Paula, Calangute, and Baga Beach. It's about a 13 km wavy ride along the coast of the Mandovi River - hop on a taxi outside the station, but they'll try to charge ya 500-700 bucks depending on the season. If you don't pack heavy and only have a handbag or backpack and you're rolling solo or double, you can walk down the Ratnagiri tracks to catch a bus to Panjim Bus Stand every 10 minutes for 15 rupees - just head toward the NH 748 flyover, a.k.a. Belgaum Road, locally. Konkan railways doesn't have too many bells and whistles here - the entrance is narrow and the only canteen around is in the railway. This spot ain't too fancy for being the capital, but if you pack light, you could reserve a rental bike...