7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Goa in December 2023

1. Day 1: Explore Panaji
   30 minutes (9.7 km) from Goa International Airport

   Start your exploration of Goa by visiting the capital city of Panaji. Walk around the city center to see the colonial-style architecture, visit the Latin Quarter to see the colorful houses and narrow streets, and end the day with a sunset at Miramar beach.

2. Day 2: Visit Old Goa and Basilica of Bom Jesus
   30 minutes (13.1 km) from Panaji

   Take a trip back in time by visiting Old Goa, the former capital of Portuguese India. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and St. Augustine Tower. In the evening, head to the nearby town of Ponda, known for its spice plantations.

3. Day 3: Relax in Palolem Beach
   1 hour 30 minutes (70.7 km) from Ponda

   Take a break from the sightseeing and spend a day relaxing at Palolem beach. The crescent-shaped beach is surrounded by palm trees and has plenty of beach shacks serving local food and drinks. Take a boat trip to see dolphins or enjoy a yoga class on the beach.

4. Day 4: Explore Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours (75.2 km) from Palolem Beach

   Take a day trip to see the majestic Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. You can hike to the falls or take a jeep safari through the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary. After the adventure, head to the nearby village of Mollem to see the Tambdi Surla temple.

5. Day 5: Discover Fort Aguada and Candolim Beach
   1 hour (24.7 km) from Dudhsagar Falls

   Visit the 17th-century Fort Aguada and its lighthouse for stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Then head to Candolim beach for some water sports or relax in one of the many beach shacks. End the day with a seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant.

6. Day 6: Visit Anjuna Flea Market and Vagator Beach
   45 minutes (19.1 km) from Candolim Beach

   Get your shopping fix at the famous Anjuna Flea Market, held every Wednesday. Afterward, head to nearby Vagator Beach to relax and enjoy the sunset. Vagator is also known for its cliffs and shacks serving international cuisine.

7. Day 7: End with a Day Trip to Divar Island
   30 minutes (10.8 km) from Panaji

   End your trip with a day trip to the charming Divar Island. Rent a bike or scooter to explore the island's winding roads and churches, and enjoy a traditional Goan meal in one of the village restaurants. Don't forget to try the local feni drink!

Recommendations

Other attractions and activities to consider include visiting the Goa State Museum, taking a spice plantation tour, and attending a classical Indian music concert. For side trips, head to the nearby state of Karnataka to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi or the beach town of Gokarna. To maximize your fun, try local street food and drinks and interact with the friendly locals.

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