Shoestring Budget Goa Itinerary for December 2023

1. Day 1: Explore Panaji
   30 minutes (12.8 km) from Goa International Airport

   In the morning, explore Fontainhas, the old Latin Quarter of Panaji with its charming winding streets and colorful houses. For lunch, head to the popular Ritz Classic for some Goan fish thali. Afternoon visits can include the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, the Mahalaxmi Temple, and the Maruti Temple. In the evening, take a stroll along the Miramar Beach and enjoy the sunset.

2. Day 2: Visit Aguada Fort and Beaches
   40 minutes (17.7 km) from Panaji

   Start your day early to visit the magnificent 17th century Aguada Fort and enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. After an hour or two, head to the Sinquerim Beach, where water sports activities are available. Next, visit the famous Calangute Beach, often referred to as the "Queen of Beaches," and explore its shacks and markets. In the evening, head to the Baga Beach for some nightlife and partying.

3. Day 3: Old Goa Churches
   30 minutes (10.8 km) from Panaji

   Spend the morning visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa, which was once the capital of Goa. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier, the Se Cathedral, which is one of the largest churches in Asia, and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. For lunch, head to the nearby Martin's Corner for some authentic Goan cuisine. In the evening, visit the Dona Paula Jetty for some stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

4. Day 4: Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours (76.8 km) from Panaji

   Start your day early to visit the mesmerizing Dudhsagar Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Take a dip in the natural pool and enjoy the scenic views. On the way back, visit the spice plantations of Goa and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch. In the evening, head to the Anjuna Flea Market to bargain for souvenirs and trinkets.

5. Day 5: Visit Fort Chapora and Vagator Beach
   30 minutes (13.8 km) from Panaji

   Start your day by visiting the iconic Fort Chapora, which offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Next, head to the serene and picturesque Vagator Beach, which is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the sun. In the evening, head to the Arambol Beach to witness a spectacular sunset and to enjoy some live music at one of the beach shacks.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the Dudhsagar trek, which takes you through the jungle and offers stunning views of the waterfall. Visit the Divar Island to experience the traditional Goan way of life. You can also consider taking a day trip to the nearby state of Karnataka to explore the historic Hampi.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Fontainhas (2 hours, free)
• Ritz Classic (1 hour, ₹500 for two)
• Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church (30 minutes, free)
• Mahalaxmi Temple (30 minutes, free)
• Maruti Temple (30 minutes, free)
• Miramar Beach (1 hour, free)
• Aguada Fort (2 hours, free)
• Sinquerim Beach (2 hours, water sports prices vary)
• Calangute Beach (2 hours, free)
• Baga Beach (2 hours, prices vary)
• Basilica of Bom Jesus (1 hour, free)
• Se Cathedral (1 hour, free)
• Church of St. Francis of Assisi (1 hour, free)
• Martin's Corner (1 hour, ₹800 for two)
• Dona Paula Jetty (1 hour, free)
• Dudhsagar Falls (6 hours, ₹1500 per person)
• Spice Plantations (2 hours, ₹500 per person)
• Anjuna Flea Market (2 hours, prices vary)
• Fort Chapora (2 hours, free)
• Vagator Beach (2 hours, free)
• Arambol Beach (2 hours, prices vary)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹6300 per person

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