4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Goa in August 2023

1. Day 1: Basilica of Bom Jesus
   15 minutes (5.8 km) from Goa International Airport

   In the morning, visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest churches in Goa. The church is home to the remains of St. Francis Xavier and features stunning Baroque architecture. In the afternoon, head to Anjuna Beach, known for its lively flea market and hippie vibe. In the evening, take a sunset boat ride on the Mandovi River and enjoy the stunning views.

2. Day 2: Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours 15 minutes (75 km) from Anjuna Beach

   Start your day early and take a day trip to Dudhsagar Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls. The falls are located in a lush jungle and can be reached by jeep or trekking. Spend the afternoon at Palolem Beach, a gorgeous crescent-shaped beach with soft sand and clear turquoise waters. In the evening, head to Tito's Lane in Baga for a family-friendly night out with live music and great food.

3. Day 3: Fort Aguada
   30 minutes (15 km) from Palolem Beach

   Visit Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort that offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Walk around the fort and explore the lighthouse on the premises. In the afternoon, head to Candolim Beach, a family-friendly beach with plenty of water sports and activities for all ages. In the evening, take a stroll along the Calangute Beach and enjoy the lively atmosphere and street food.

4. Day 4: Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
   30 minutes (14 km) from Fort Aguada

   Start your final day with a visit to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, named after India's most famous ornithologist. The sanctuary is home to over 400 species of birds, including migratory birds that visit during August. In the afternoon, head to the Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panaji, and explore the colourful, narrow streets with colonial-style buildings. In the evening, take a sunset cruise on the Zuari River and enjoy the scenic views.

Recommendations

Other local attractions worth considering include the Se Cathedral, the Reis Magos Fort, and the Goa State Museum. For day trips, consider visiting the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary or the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. To maximize your fun, make sure to try Goan cuisine, including fish curry, vindaloo, and sorpotel, and attend a cultural event, such as a music or dance performance.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Basilica of Bom Jesus (2 hours, free)
• Anjuna Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Mandovi River sunset boat ride (1 hour, INR 500 per person)
• Dudhsagar Falls day trip (8-10 hours, INR 2000-3000 per person)
• Palolem Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Tito's Lane in Baga (2-3 hours, INR 1000 per person)
• Fort Aguada (2-3 hours, INR 200 per person)
• Candolim Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Calangute Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (2-3 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Fontainhas (2-3 hours, free)
• Zuari River sunset cruise (1 hour, INR 500 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 4500-6000 per person

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