Nature-Filled 4-Day Itinerary in North Goa for July 2023

1. Day 1: Mandovi River
   35 minutes (13 miles) from Goa International Airport

   Begin your trip with a calming river cruise on Mandovi River in Panaji. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the river and the Goan coastline as the boat sails towards the Arabian Sea. In the morning, you can spot dolphins playing in the river. In the afternoon, explore the ancient Ribandar Church, the famous Reis Magos Fort and the historic Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church. In the evening, explore the vibrant Fontainhas neighborhood and enjoy authentic Goan food at Viva Panjim.

2. Day 2: Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours 30 minutes (46 miles) from Panaji

   Start your day with a thrilling Jeep Safari to the magnificent Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The journey is a bumpy but fun ride through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. In the afternoon, relax and swim in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall. In the evening, take a drive to the Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple, a beautiful 12th-century Shiva temple surrounded by lush greenery.

3. Day 3: Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and Spice Plantation Tour
   30 minutes (9 miles) from Panaji

   Start your day bird-watching at the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, named after India's most renowned ornithologist. Spot exotic birds while strolling through the mangrove forest. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of a spice plantation and witness the harvesting of spices like cardamom and pepper. Learn about the medicinal properties of spices and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch made with local ingredients. In the evening, head to the Miramar Beach for a relaxing sunset walk.

4. Day 4: Mollem National Park
   1 hour 20 minutes (33 miles) from Panaji

   Explore the Mollem National Park, the largest protected area in Goa. Start your day with a guided trek to the Tambdi Waterfall, where you can swim in the clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Mahadev Temple and the famous Dudhsagar Plantation. In the evening, take a drive to the Cabo de Rama Fort, a 16th-century Portuguese fortress with stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

Recommendations

If you have some extra time, visit the Anjuna Flea Market, one of the biggest markets in Goa, held every Wednesday. Take a day trip to the charming Divar Island, a serene island with old Portuguese-style houses. To maximize your fun, try kayaking in the Nerul River, scuba diving in the Grande Island, or paragliding in Arambol Beach.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mandovi River cruise (3 hours, Rs. 500)
• Jeep safari to Dudhsagar Falls (6 hours, Rs. 3,500)
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, Rs. 200)
• Spice plantation tour (3 hours, Rs. 1,500)
• Trek to Tambdi Waterfall (2 hours, Rs. 500)
• Cabo de Rama Fort (1 hour, free entry)
• Total Estimated Costs: Rs. 6,700

Check for hotel and flight prices at https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.