7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Goa in December 2023

1. Day 1: Basilica of Bom Jesus
   20 minutes (12.3 km) from Goa International Airport

   Start your trip with a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at its Baroque architecture and take a stroll around the beautiful gardens. After lunch, head to Dona Paula Beach for water sports and relaxing on the beach. In the evening, explore the vibrant night markets of Anjuna and Baga.

2. Day 2: Ancestral Goa and Mangueshi Temple
   1 hour 10 minutes (31.6 km) from Dona Paula Beach

   Take a trip to Ancestral Goa, a cultural village showcasing the history and traditions of the state. Then head to the Mangueshi Temple, one of the oldest and most important Hindu temples in the state. Finish off the day with a sunset river cruise on the Mandovi River.

3. Day 3: Dudhsagar Falls
   1 hour 30 minutes (57.4 km) from Mangueshi Temple

   Take a day trip to the stunning Dudhsagar Falls, a four-tiered waterfall located on the Mandovi River. Go on a trek to the waterfall or take a jeep safari. After lunch, visit the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, known for its rich wildlife and bird species. Return to your hotel in the evening.

4. Day 4: Se Cathedral and Fort Aguada
   40 minutes (18.1 km) from Dudhsagar Falls

   Visit the Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia. Then head to Fort Aguada, a 17th-century fort with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy seafood at a beachside restaurant and spend the afternoon relaxing on Candolim Beach. In the evening, head to the nearby Reis Magos Fort for a cultural programme.

5. Day 5: Shantadurga Temple and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
   1 hour 20 minutes (29.3 km) from Candolim Beach

   Visit the Shantadurga Temple, dedicated to the goddess of peace and tranquillity. Then head to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers. After lunch, visit the Museum of Christian Art, showcasing the art and artefacts of the Portuguese era. Return to your hotel in the evening.

6. Day 6: Chapora Fort and Vagator Beach
   40 minutes (14.6 km) from Museum of Christian Art

   Take a morning visit to the Chapora Fort, a popular shooting location for Bollywood movies. Enjoy the panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the Chapora River. Then head to Vagator Beach, known for its red cliffs and stunning sunset views. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach and trying out some beach sports.

7. Day 7: Goa State Museum and Miramar Beach
   40 minutes (12.7 km) from Vagator Beach

   Visit the Goa State Museum, showcasing the art, culture, and history of the state. Then head to Miramar Beach, known for its golden sand and clear waters. Spend the afternoon strolling along the beach and trying out some local snacks. In the evening, head to a local restaurant for some authentic Goan cuisine.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on visiting the famous churches of Old Goa, such as the Church of St. Francis of Assisi and the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. Take a day trip to the stunning Palolem Beach and explore the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary. Rent a scooter and explore the scenic backroads of Goa for an offbeat experience.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Basilica of Bom Jesus (2 hours, free)
• Dona Paula Beach (3 hours, INR 500 for water sports)
• Ancestral Goa (2 hours, INR 300 per person)
• Mangueshi Temple (1 hour, free)
• Dudhsagar Falls (6 hours, INR 1,500 per person for jeep safari and trek)
• Fort Aguada (2 hours, free)
• Candolim Beach (3 hours, INR 500 for beach sports)
• Shantadurga Temple (1 hour, free)
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Chapora Fort (1 hour, free)
• Vagator Beach (3 hours, free)
• Goa State Museum (2 hours, INR 50 per person)
• Miramar Beach (3 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,950 per person

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