Start your trip by visiting the beautiful capital city of Goa, Panaji. In the morning, take a walk along the picturesque streets of Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses. Visit the historic Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church and soak in the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, head to the vibrant market of Altinho and indulge in some local shopping. As the evening sets in, walk along the Mandovi River promenade and enjoy the sunset.
Fontainhas: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Mandovi River promenade: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Panaji is Cafe Bhonsle, serving delicious Goan and Indian breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Viva Panjim, a charming Goan restaurant known for its authentic flavors and seafood specialties. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Mum's Kitchen, a renowned restaurant offering a wide range of traditional Goan dishes prepared with a modern twist. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Tuesday, September 5: Beaches of North Goa
On the second day, head to the famous beaches of North Goa. Start your morning by visiting Calangute Beach, known for its golden sand and water sports activities. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Anjuna Flea Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and taste local delicacies. In the evening, watch the sunset at Vagator Beach and enjoy a beachside dinner at one of the shacks.
Embark on a cultural journey through the heritage sites of Old Goa. Start your morning by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site, Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Explore the Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia, and marvel at its impressive architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Christian Art and learn about the rich history and art of Goa. End the day with a visit to the beautiful Church of St. Cajetan.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Se Cathedral: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Museum of Christian Art: Estimated cost - INR 10, Time spent - 1 hour
Church of St. Cajetan: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Old Goa is Cafe Alchemia, known for its delicious traditional Goan breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant, which serves authentic Goan cuisine at affordable prices. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 300 per person.
In the evening, enjoy a dinner at Viva Panjim, a quaint restaurant offering a fusion of Goan and Portuguese flavors. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 500 per person.
Thursday, September 7: Dudhsagar Waterfalls and Spice Plantations
On your last day, embark on an adventure to Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Start your morning early and take a jeep safari through the Mollem National Park to reach the majestic waterfalls. Enjoy the breathtaking views and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool. In the afternoon, visit one of the spice plantations in Ponda and learn about the aromatic spices grown in Goa. End the day with a sumptuous Goan lunch at the plantation.
Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast at Cafe Mambo. This popular breakfast spot offers a variety of options such as eggs, pancakes, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Martin's Corner, a renowned Goan restaurant known for its authentic seafood dishes. Indulge in fresh fish curries, spicy prawns, and flavorful Goan thalis. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Gunpowder. This charming restaurant serves mouthwatering South Indian and Goan fusion dishes. Don't miss their signature pork dishes and homemade desserts. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Goa, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the peaceful Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, where you can witness a wide variety of colorful butterflies. Take a leisurely cruise on the Mandovi River during sunset to experience the beauty of Goa from a different perspective. Explore the charming village of Divar Island and immerse yourself in its laid-back atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. Lastly, indulge in authentic Goan cuisine at local eateries like Mum's Kitchen and Fisherman's Wharf.