5-Day Nature Itinerary for Goa in September 2023

1. Day 1: Mandovi River
   40 minutes (15 miles) from Goa International Airport

   Experience the natural beauty of Goa by taking a morning boat ride on the Mandovi River. Spot dolphins while you enjoy the warm sun and cool breeze. Afternoon, visit the Reis Magos Fort, which has a breathtaking view of the river. In the evening, head to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary to spot a variety of birds, including kingfishers, egrets, and herons.

2. Day 2: Dudhsagar Falls
   1.5 hours (37 miles) from Mandovi River

   Take a day trip to Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, and you can swim in the natural pools below the falls. In the afternoon, visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary to explore the diverse flora and fauna of Goa. In the evening, relax at the Anjuna Beach, famous for its scenic beauty and vibrant nightlife.

3. Day 3: Mollem National Park
   1 hour (25 miles) from Dudhsagar Falls

   Visit Mollem National Park in the morning to see the beautiful tropical forests, waterfalls and wildlife. You can trek to the Tambdi Surla temple, a 12th-century temple in the forest. In the afternoon, visit the spice plantations to see and learn about the different spices of India. In the evening, head to the Colva Beach to watch the sunset.

4. Day 4: Netravali Biodiversity Park
   1.5 hours (38 miles) from Mollem National Park

   Explore the Netravali Biodiversity Park in the morning, which is home to many rare plants and animals. You can trek to the Savari Waterfall, which is surrounded by dense forests. In the afternoon, head to the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary to see more unique flora and fauna. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Goan fish curry at the Fisherman's Wharf.

5. Day 5: Cumbarjua Canal
   1 hour (23 miles) from Netravali Biodiversity Park

   Take a morning boat ride on the Cumbarjua Canal, which is home to many species of crocodiles and birds. Afterward, head to the Chorao Island, the largest island in Goa, to visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, which has over 400 species of birds. In the evening, visit the Vagator Beach to watch the sunset and enjoy some cocktails.

Recommendations

Don't miss the chance to explore the historic Basilica of Bom Jesus and the beautiful beaches of Goa such as Baga and Calangute, which are popular for water sports. Also, consider taking a day trip to the Dudhsagar Plantation or the Terekhol Fort. To maximize fun, try popular Goan street foods such as Vada Pav, Prawn Balchão, and Bebinca.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mandovi River boat ride (2 hours, INR 500)
• Reis Magos Fort (1 hour, INR 50)
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 100)
• Dudhsagar Falls day trip (8 hours, INR 2500)
• Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 200)
• Anjuna Beach (3 hours, INR 500)
• Mollem National Park (4 hours, INR 500)
• Spice Plantations (2 hours, INR 300)
• Colva Beach (2 hours, INR 200)
• Netravali Biodiversity Park (4 hours, INR 500)
• Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 200)
• Fisherman's Wharf (1 hour, INR 400)
• Cumbarjua Canal boat ride (2 hours, INR 750)
• Chorao Island (2 hours, INR 100)
• Vagator Beach (2 hours, INR 500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 7050

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