Four Days in Goa on a Shoestring Budget in July 2023

1. Day 1: Explore Panjim
   30 minutes (10.5 km) from Goa International Airport

   Begin your day with a stroll through Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panjim. Admire the colourful Portuguese-style houses and narrow streets before heading to the nearby Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church. Afterwards, visit the vibrant Mapusa Market, where you can find all sorts of local produce, spices and souvenirs. In the afternoon, head to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary to spot some of the 400+ bird species that inhabit the area. End the day at Miramar Beach to catch a beautiful sunset and enjoy a stroll along the shore.

2. Day 2: Visit Old Goa and a Spice Plantation
   30 minutes (10.7 km) from Panjim

   Start the day at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Afterwards, head to the nearby Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. In the afternoon, head to a spice plantation for a tour and lunch. Learn about the various spices grown in the region and enjoy a traditional Goan meal. End the day by relaxing at Anjuna Beach, where you can find beach shacks and live music performances.

3. Day 3: Explore South Goa Beaches
   1 hour 20 minutes (46.5 km) from Anjuna Beach

   Start your day at Colva Beach, one of the oldest and largest beaches in South Goa. Head to nearby Benaulim Beach, a less crowded option with beautiful views of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, visit the Cabo de Rama Fort, a Portuguese fort that offers panoramic views of the coastline. End the day at Palolem Beach, a popular spot for swimming and beachside dining.

4. Day 4: Trek to Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours 20 minutes (81.3 km) from Palolem Beach

   Start your day early with a trek to the stunning Dudhsagar Falls. The trek takes about 2-3 hours and takes you through lush forests and streams. Once you reach the falls, take a refreshing dip in the pool and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, head back to Goa and spend your last evening at Baga Beach, where you can find plenty of restaurants and bars.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on visiting the Reis Magos Fort, a 16th century fort that offers beautiful views of the Mandovi River. If you have time, consider taking a day trip to the beautiful Chorao Island, home to a variety of bird species and the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. To maximize your fun, try participating in a yoga class on one of the beaches or take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Goan dishes.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church (1 hour, Free)
• Mapusa Market (2 hours, Free)
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Basilica of Bom Jesus (1 hour, Free)
• Se Cathedral (1 hour, Free)
• Spice Plantation Tour and Lunch (4 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Cabo de Rama Fort (2 hours, Free)
• Dudhsagar Falls Trek (6 hours, INR 1500 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2100 per person

Check hotel and flight prices here.