6-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Goa (December 2023)

1. Day 1: Explore Panaji
   20 minutes (9.7 miles) from Goa International Airport

   In the morning, visit the historic Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses. Enjoy a traditional Goan breakfast at a local eatery. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant markets and shops in Panaji. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Mandovi River and enjoy the sunset.

2. Day 2: Beach Day at Baga
   30 minutes (9.8 miles) from Panaji

   Spend the morning relaxing on the beautiful Baga Beach. Try out water sports like parasailing or jet skiing (additional cost). Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the beach shacks. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Calangute Beach. As the day comes to an end, indulge in some beachside nightlife at Tito's Lane.

3. Day 3: Visit Old Goa
   40 minutes (12.5 miles) from Baga

   Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Explore the other magnificent churches in Old Goa, such as Se Cathedral and Church of St. Cajetan. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch at a local eatery. Spend the evening at Miramar Beach, watching the sunset.

4. Day 4: Dudhsagar Waterfalls
   2 hours 30 minutes (42.6 miles) from Old Goa

   Embark on a day trip to the mesmerizing Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Take a jeep safari through the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool formed by the waterfall. Carry a packed lunch as there are limited food options available. Head back to your accommodation in the evening.

5. Day 5: Explore South Goa
   1 hour 30 minutes (31.9 miles) from Dudhsagar Waterfalls

   Start your day by visiting the beautiful Palolem Beach. Enjoy a leisurely swim and soak up the sun. Explore the nearby Butterfly Beach and take a boat ride to see the dolphins. Have a delicious Goan lunch at a beachside shack. In the evening, visit the Cabo de Rama Fort and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

6. Day 6: Spice Plantation and Anjuna Market
   1 hour 10 minutes (18.2 miles) from South Goa

   Embark on a guided tour of a spice plantation and learn about the diverse spices grown in Goa. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amid the lush greenery. In the afternoon, visit the famous Anjuna Flea Market and browse through a variety of unique handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. End your day with a relaxing sunset at Vagator Beach.

Recommendations

If you have additional time, consider visiting the vibrant Saturday Night Market in Arpora or taking a day trip to the serene Divar Island. To maximize your fun, try the local cuisine at small, family-run eateries for an authentic experience. Don't forget to catch a Goan dance and music performance to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the region.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Latin Quarter of Fontainhas (2 hours, free)
• Baga Beach (5 hours, free)
• Water Sports at Baga Beach (2 hours, prices vary)
• Old Goa Churches (3 hours, free)
• Jeep Safari to Dudhsagar Waterfalls (8 hours, Jeep safari cost: INR 1,500 per person)
• Palolem Beach (4 hours, free)
• Boat Ride at Palolem Beach (1 hour, prices vary)
• Spice Plantation Tour (3 hours, tour cost: INR 500 per person)
• Anjuna Flea Market (3 hours, free)

Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,000 (excluding accommodation, transportation, and additional activity costs)

Check hotel and flight prices here!