Welcome to Goa! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and unwinding after your journey. In the morning, head to Baga Beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere and water sports activities. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the beachside shacks. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with stunning ocean views. In the evening, explore the lively streets of Calangute and indulge in the local cuisine.
Fort Aguada: Estimated cost - INR 200 (entrance fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Calangute: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Mambo, a charming beachfront cafe that offers a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelets, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, visit Brittos, a popular beachside shack known for its delicious seafood dishes and laid-back ambiance. Try their signature prawn curry or grilled fish. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, dine at Martin's Corner, a renowned restaurant that serves Goan and Portuguese cuisine. Enjoy their famous Goan fish curry or traditional pork vindaloo. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Wednesday, August 23: Old Goa Exploration
Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa. Begin at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, housing the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. Explore the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panaji, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses. End your day with a relaxing sunset cruise on the Mandovi River.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Se Cathedral: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Fontainhas: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunset Cruise on Mandovi River: Estimated cost - INR 500-1000, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, located near Old Goa. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly brewed coffees and homemade pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant, situated in Fontainhas. Indulge in authentic Goan cuisine, including mouthwatering seafood dishes and traditional curries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Mum's Kitchen, known for its warm hospitality and traditional Goan flavors. Enjoy dishes like Goan fish curry and pork vindaloo in a charming setting. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Thursday, August 24: Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Embark on an exciting day trip to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Enjoy a scenic train ride through the picturesque Western Ghats to reach the falls. Spend the morning swimming in the refreshing waters and capturing beautiful photographs. Afterward, visit the Tambdi Surla Temple, a 13th-century temple nestled in the forest. Return to Goa in the evening and relax at your hotel.
Experience the flavors of Goa with a visit to a spice plantation. Embark on a guided tour that takes you through the lush greenery, where you can learn about various spices and their medicinal properties. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch made with fresh spices. In the afternoon, relax at the peaceful Palolem Beach and witness a mesmerizing sunset. Indulge in some beachside dining for dinner.
Savor a delicious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, known for its wide variety of Goan and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant and sample their authentic Goan thali, which includes a selection of rice, curries, and seafood. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Martin's Corner, a popular seafood restaurant famous for its Goan specialties such as fish curry and prawn balchao. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, August 26: South Goa Exploration
Explore the serene beaches of South Goa. Start with a visit to Colva Beach, known for its white sands and palm-fringed coastline. Visit the nearby Cabo de Rama Fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, head to Benaulim Beach, where you can relax and enjoy water sports activities. End your day with a candlelight dinner at a beachside restaurant.
Embark on an adventurous Jeep safari to Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Ride through the rugged terrain of the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and spot exotic flora and fauna along the way. Reach the base of the falls and enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool. Afterward, return to your hotel and spend the evening exploring the vibrant nightlife of Goa.
Take a ferry to Divar Island, a hidden gem of Goa. Explore the quaint village life, visit the beautiful Our Lady of Compassion Church, and enjoy panoramic views from the Piedade Viewpoint. In the afternoon, head to the bustling Mapusa Market, known for its fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts. End your trip with a sunset walk along Miramar Beach.
Divar Island: Estimated cost - Ferry charges (INR 20-50), Time spent - 3-4 hours
For off the beaten path attractions, visit the peaceful Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, home to a variety of colorful butterflies. Explore the quiet villages of Aldona and Assagao, known for their picturesque landscapes and traditional Goan houses. Don't miss the chance to try Goan delicacies like Bebinca, Feni, and Prawn Balchão at local eateries.
To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Goa, click here.