South Goa on a Shoestring Budget: A 3-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Explore Panaji
    20 minutes (7.9 km) from Dabolim Airport

    Begin your trip to South Goa with a tour of the capital city, Panaji. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, the UNESCO World Heritage site that contains the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. Get a glimpse of colonial architecture at the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and the Adilshahi Palace. Take a relaxing walk along the Miramar Beach or enjoy the breeze at the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.

  2. Day 2: Beach Hopping in South Goa
    40 minutes (30.5 km) from Panaji

    Embark on a beach-hopping adventure in South Goa. Start at Betalbatim Beach, a serene and less crowded beach ideal for sunbathing. Proceed to Colva Beach, known for its water sports and nightlife. End your day at the Palolem Beach, a lively beach with shacks serving local cuisine and parties happening around.

  3. Day 3: Heritage Sites in Old Goa
    20 minutes (9.2 km) from Panaji

    Discover the rich cultural heritage of the state by visiting the historic sites in Old Goa. Admire the grandeur of the Se Cathedral and St. Catherine's Chapel, built-in 1652 and the largest church in Asia. Witness the intricate artwork and design at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi and the Church of Our Lady of Rosary. Take a stroll in the sprawling park surrounding the Braganza House, a 16th-century mansion with landscaped gardens.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus (1 hour, free)
  • Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception (30 mins, free)
  • Adilshahi Palace (1 hour, free)
  • Miramar Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (1 hour, INR 20 per head)
  • Betalbatim Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Colva Beach (3 hours, free)
  • Palolem Beach (3 hours, INR 200 for water sports)
  • Se Cathedral and St. Catherine's Chapel (1 hour, free)
  • Church of St. Francis of Assisi (1 hour, INR 5 per head)
  • Church of Our Lady of Rosary (30 mins, free)
  • Braganza House (2 hours, INR 50 per head)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 275 per head

Useful Tips

If you have more time in South Goa, add a visit to the Salaulim Dam or a trek to the Dudhsagar Falls. Adventure seekers can experience scuba diving and snorkeling at Grande Island or parasailing at Colva Beach.

If you have less time, consider visiting either Old Goa or Panaji for a day trip or opt to spend a relaxing day sunbathing on the Benaulim Beach. Avoid traveling to South Goa during the monsoon season.

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