A 4-Day Shoestring Budget South Goa Itinerary in October 2023

1. Day 1: Explore the Heritage Sites of Old Goa
   30 minutes (15.5 km) from Dabolim Airport

   Start your day with a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Then, head to the nearby Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, with its stunning Portuguese-Gothic architecture and a bell tower that offers panoramic views. After a quick lunch of Goan fish curry and rice, head to the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, perched atop a hill, and enjoy the view of Panaji city. End your day with a sunset walk at Miramar Beach.

2. Day 2: Explore the Beaches of South Goa
   40 minutes (14.2 km) from Panaji city

   Begin your day with a visit to Colva Beach, one of the longest beaches in Goa, and enjoy a swim or a stroll. Then, head to Benaulim Beach, where you can watch fishermen bring in their catch of the day. Next, visit the Cabo de Rama Fort, perched atop a cliff, for stunning views of the Arabian Sea. End your day with a sunset at Palolem Beach, where you can enjoy a beachside dinner of fresh seafood.

3. Day 3: Explore the Wildlife of South Goa
   1 hour 5 minutes (37.8 km) from Palolem Beach

   Start your day with a visit to the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the Indian Bison and the Golden-back Gliding Snake. Then, head to the nearby Galgibaga Beach, where you can watch Olive Ridley sea turtles nesting from October to March. After lunch, visit the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, home to the Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Take a dip in the refreshing waterfall pool and hike to the Tambdi Surla Temple, a 12th-century Shiva temple hidden deep in the forest.

4. Day 4: Explore the Culture of South Goa
   40 minutes (32.2 km) from Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary

   Start your day with a visit to the Ancestral Goa Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of Goa. Then, head to the nearby Sahakari Spice Farm, where you can take a guided tour of the plantation, taste local spices, and enjoy a traditional Goan meal. After lunch, visit the Mangueshi Temple, one of the oldest and most visited temples in Goa, and learn about Hindu culture and mythology. End your day with a visit to the Fontainhas Heritage Walk, a colorful Latin Quarter in Panaji city, and admire the Portuguese-style houses and narrow streets.

Recommendations

Don't miss the chance to experience a traditional Goan dance and music performance at the Tiatr or the Zagor festivals. Take a side trip to the nearby Chorao Island, home to the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and the Divar Island, known for its scenic countryside and quaint villages. To maximize your fun, rent a scooter or a bicycle and explore the offbeat beaches and villages of South Goa. Don't forget to try the local delicacies, such as Bebinca, Feni, and Goan sausages.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Basilica of Bom Jesus (1 hour, free)
• Se Cathedral (1 hour, free)
• Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception (1 hour, free)
• Miramar Beach (2 hours, free)
• Colva Beach (2 hours, free)
• Benaulim Beach (2 hours, free)
• Cabo de Rama Fort (2 hours, free)
• Palolem Beach (2 hours, free)
• Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Galgibaga Beach (2 hours, free)
• Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park (4 hours, INR 400 per person for entry and jeep ride)
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls (3 hours, INR 400 per person for jeep ride)
• Ancestral Goa Museum (2 hours, INR 300 per person)
• Sahakari Spice Farm (3 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Mangueshi Temple (1 hour, free)
• Fontainhas Heritage Walk (2 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,700 per person

To plan your budget-friendly trip to South Goa, check hotel and flight prices on https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.