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A Week in Goa: Family Friendly Itinerary

Friday September 1: Explore Panaji

Start your trip by exploring the capital city of Goa, Panaji. In the morning, visit the beautiful Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its Baroque architecture and the preserved remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Mandovi River and enjoy the picturesque views. As the evening sets in, head to the vibrant Fontainhas district, known for its colourful Portuguese-style houses and charming atmosphere.

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus: Entrance is free. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Mandovi Riverwalk: Free. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Fontainhas: Free. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Saturday September 2: Beach Day in Calangute

Spend a day relaxing and enjoying the sun at Calangute Beach, one of Goa's most popular and family-friendly beaches. In the morning, take a dip in the clear blue waters and soak up the warm sun. In the afternoon, indulge in some water sports activities such as jet skiing or parasailing. As the evening approaches, explore the bustling market stalls and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner by the beach.

  • Calangute Beach: Free. Estimated time spent: Full day.
  • Water sports activities: Prices vary. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Beachside dinner: Estimated cost depends on the restaurant chosen.
Sunday September 3: Wildlife at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Spend the day exploring the natural beauty and wildlife at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, take a guided nature walk through the lush greenery and spot various species of birds and animals. In the afternoon, visit the mini zoo and interact with the friendly deer and peacocks. As the evening sets in, enjoy a picnic amidst the serene surroundings.

  • Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee is INR 20 per person. Estimated time spent: Full day.
  • Guided nature walk: Free. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Mini zoo visit: Free. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Monday September 4: Explore Old Goa

Dive into Goa's rich history by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa. In the morning, visit the magnificent churches, including Se Cathedral and Church of St. Francis of Assisi. In the afternoon, explore the Archaeological Museum of Goa, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque streets and enjoy the colonial architecture.

  • Se Cathedral: Free. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Church of St. Francis of Assisi: Free. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Archaeological Museum of Goa: Entrance fee is INR 5 per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Tuesday September 5: Waterfalls at Dudhsagar

Embark on an adventurous day trip to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of India's tallest waterfalls. In the morning, take a scenic train ride through the lush green forests to reach the waterfalls. Enjoy the breathtaking views and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding area and have a picnic amidst nature. As the evening sets in, return to Goa and relax after an exciting day.

  • Train ride to Dudhsagar: Prices vary depending on the class of travel. Estimated time spent: Full day.
  • Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Entrance fee is INR 400 per person. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
  • Picnic at the waterfalls: Cost depends on personal preferences.
Wednesday September 6: Spice Plantations in Ponda

Discover the aromatic world of spices at the spice plantations in Ponda. In the morning, take a guided tour of the plantation and learn about different spices and their cultivation. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amidst the lush green surroundings. In the afternoon, take an elephant ride and explore the beautiful gardens. As the evening approaches, indulge in a spice shopping spree and bring home some authentic Goan spices.

  • Spice plantation tour: Prices vary. Estimated time spent: Full day.
  • Goan lunch: Cost depends on the plantation chosen.
  • Elephant ride: Prices vary. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Thursday September 7: Goan Cuisine in Margao

End your trip by experiencing the flavors of Goan cuisine in the vibrant city of Margao. In the morning, visit the bustling local markets and shop for fresh produce and spices. In the afternoon, attend a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Goan dishes. As the evening sets in, enjoy a delicious Goan dinner at a local restaurant and savor the unique flavors.

  • Margao Market: Free. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Cooking class: Prices vary. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Goan dinner: Estimated cost depends on the restaurant chosen.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a more off the beaten path experience, head to the peaceful Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, where you can witness the beauty of various butterfly species and learn about their lifecycle. Another local favorite is the Arambol Sweet Water Lake, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by green hills. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing swim or a picnic with the family.

To check hotel and flight prices for your Goa trip, visit Kayak.

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