5-Day Goa Itinerary for December 2023

1. Day 1: Aguada Fort
   25 minutes (10.3 miles) from Goa International Airport

   In the morning, visit Aguada Fort which was built in the early 17th century as a defense against the Dutch. Its lighthouse is the oldest of its kind in Asia. In the afternoon, head to Calangute Beach which is known for its water sports activities. End your day with a visit to Baga Beach which is known for its nightlife and shacks.

2. Day 2: Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours 10 minutes (46.4 miles) from Baga Beach

   Start your day early and head to Dudhsagar Falls which is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The falls are located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. Afternoon, visit the historic temple of Shanta Durga. In the evening, drive to Panaji and visit the Mandovi River for a scenic boat ride.

3. Day 3: Basilica of Bom Jesus
   1 hour 10 minutes (21.7 miles) from Mandovi River

   In the morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Basilica of Bom Jesus which is one of the oldest churches in Goa. The remains of St. Francis Xavier are kept here. Afternoon, head to Anjuna Beach which is known for its flea market and sunset views. In the evening, visit the Chapora Fort which offers panoramic views of the Arabian sea.

4. Day 4: Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
   1 hour 10 minutes (19.4 miles) from Chapora Fort

   Start your day by visiting the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary which is named after the famous Indian ornithologist. The sanctuary is home to numerous species of birds and you can enjoy a serene boat ride through the mangroves. Afternoon, head to Fort Aguada which was built in 1612 to guard against the Dutch and the Marathas. In the evening, visit the bustling market of Mapusa which is known for its fresh produce and local handicrafts.

5. Day 5: Palolem Beach
   1 hour 45 minutes (38.2 miles) from Mapusa Market

   On your last day in Goa, visit Palolem Beach which is known for its natural beauty and tranquility. You can take a boat ride to see the dolphins and enjoy the sunset. Afternoon, head to Margao and explore the colonial architecture of the city. In the evening, visit the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church which is one of the oldest churches in Goa.

Recommendations

If you have an extra day, you can visit the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary or the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary. If you are a foodie, do try the local seafood and the famous Goan sausages. You can also take a day trip to the neighboring state of Karnataka and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi. To maximize your fun, try to plan your itinerary around the various festivals that happen in Goa such as the Sunburn Festival and the Carnival.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Aguada Fort (2 hours, free)
• Calangute Beach (3 hours, Rs. 500 for water sports)
• Baga Beach (2 hours, as per actuals)
• Dudhsagar Falls (6-7 hours, Rs. 400 for entrance fee and Rs. 2500 for Jeep Safari)
• Shanta Durga Temple (1 hour, free)
• Mandovi River Boat Ride (2 hours, Rs. 300-500 per person)
• Basilica of Bom Jesus (1 hour, free)
• Anjuna Beach (3 hours, as per actuals)
• Chapora Fort (1 hour, free)
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (3 hours, Rs. 20 for entrance fee and Rs. 100 for boat ride)
• Fort Aguada (2 hours, free)
• Mapusa Market (2 hours, as per actuals)
• Palolem Beach (4 hours, as per actuals)
• Margao (2 hours, as per actuals)
• Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church (1 hour, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: Rs. 4500-6000 per person (excluding hotel and flight prices)

To check hotel and flight prices, click here.