Ultimate Guide to 7 Days in Goa (December 2023)

1. Day 1: Basilica of Bom Jesus
   30 minutes (13.4 km) from Goa International Airport

   Start your trip with a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the Baroque architecture and learn about the history of the church in the museum. Afternoon, walk to the nearby Fontainhas neighborhood for lunch at Viva Panjim, a charming Goan restaurant. In the evening, head to the Miramar Beach for a sunset stroll.

2. Day 2: Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours 20 minutes (76.5 km) from Basilica of Bom Jesus

   Take a scenic drive through the Western Ghats to reach the majestic Dudhsagar Falls. Trek to the base of the waterfalls and take a refreshing dip in the pool. Enjoy a packed lunch and then head back to the hotel in the evening.

3. Day 3: Fort Aguada and Candolim Beach
   30 minutes (12.9 km) from Dudhsagar Falls

   Explore the historic Fort Aguada and get stunning views of the Arabian Sea from the lighthouse. Head to the Candolim Beach for afternoon sunbathing and water sports. In the evening, unwind at the LPK Waterfront, a waterfront club with live music and drinks.

4. Day 4: Anjuna Flea Market and Chapora Fort
   50 minutes (20.7 km) from Fort Aguada

   Shop for souvenirs, jewelry, and handicrafts at the famous Anjuna Flea Market. Afternoon, take a short drive to the Chapora Fort and enjoy breathtaking views of the Vagator Beach. End the day with dinner at Gunpowder, a rustic restaurant serving traditional Goan cuisine.

5. Day 5: Divar Island and Old Goa
   1 hour 10 minutes (28.5 km) from Anjuna Flea Market

   Take a scenic ferry ride to the Divar Island and explore the quaint village and churches. Head back to Old Goa for a visit to the Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mandovi River.

6. Day 6: Spice Plantations and Colva Beach
   1 hour 30 minutes (47.4 km) from Old Goa

   Take an informative tour of the spice plantations and learn about the different spices grown in Goa. Afternoon, head to the Colva Beach for sunbathing and swimming. End the day with a seafood platter at Fisherman's Wharf, a popular restaurant with live music and views of the Arabian Sea.

7. Day 7: Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
   50 minutes (22.2 km) from Colva Beach

   Explore the lush green Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and spot exotic wildlife. Afternoon, head to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and spot migratory birds. End the day with a sunset dinner at Thirsty Bear, a rooftop bar with panoramic views of Panaji.

Recommendations

Don't miss the chance to attend a traditional Goan dance performance at the Tiatr Academy. Take a day trip to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary or the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to spot tigers and leopards. To maximize your fun, rent a motorbike and explore the beautiful Goan coastline at your own pace.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Basilica of Bom Jesus (2 hours, free)
• Dudhsagar Falls (6 hours, INR 1,500)
• Fort Aguada (2 hours, free)
• Anjuna Flea Market (3 hours, free)
• Divar Island (4 hours, INR 500)
• Spice Plantations (3 hours, INR 1,000)
• Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary (5 hours, INR 500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 3,500