Discovering Goa on a Shoestring Budget

Saturday, November 25: Arrive in Goa

Welcome to Goa! Start your trip by checking into your accommodation and getting settled. Spend the morning exploring the local area around your hotel, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant coastal city. In the afternoon, head to Anjuna Beach, known for its laid-back atmosphere and lively flea market. Enjoy some beach time, soak up the sun, and grab a bite to eat at one of the beachside shacks. As the evening approaches, make your way to the bustling Baga Beach, famous for its nightlife and beachside restaurants.

  • Anjuna Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Baga Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Cafe Alchemia, a charming cafe known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
  • If you're looking for a tasty lunch option, try Gunpowder, a cozy restaurant that serves mouthwatering South Indian cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
  • In the evening, dine at Fisherman's Wharf, a popular seafood restaurant located on the riverfront. Enjoy the catch of the day while enjoying the serene ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Sunday, November 26: Heritage and Culture

Start your day by visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in India. Explore the intricate carvings and marvel at the preserved remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, head to the vibrant Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, admiring the art galleries and quaint cafes. As the evening sets in, visit the vibrant market at Mapusa, where you can shop for local handicrafts and enjoy delicious street food.

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Fontainhas: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Mapusa Market: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, known for its cozy ambiance and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
  • For lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant, a popular spot among the locals. Enjoy their tasty seafood dishes and traditional Goan curries. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Mum's Kitchen, where you can savor authentic Goan cuisine like Goan prawn curry and pork vindaloo. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, November 27: Nature and Adventure

Start your day with a visit to Dudhsagar Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India. Marvel at the cascading water surrounded by lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. In the afternoon, head to the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of flora and fauna. Explore the trails and keep an eye out for monkeys, deer, and bird species. As the evening approaches, watch a mesmerizing sunset at Coco Beach, a serene and less crowded beach known for its picturesque beauty.

  • Dudhsagar Falls: Estimated Cost - Minimal entry fee, Time Spent - Half-day
  • Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost - Minimal entry fee, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Coco Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Chocolatti, known for its scrumptious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
  • For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, a popular seafood restaurant offering a wide range of Goan delicacies. Enjoy their delectable fish curry and rice. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
  • In the evening, dine at Vinayak Family Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Goan cuisine. Indulge in their mouthwatering prawn curry or pork vindaloo. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Tuesday, November 28: Local Cuisine and Relaxation

Start your day by indulging in a traditional Goan breakfast at a local eatery. Try dishes like poi (Goan bread), xacuti, and Goan sausages. In the afternoon, explore the local markets of Panaji, such as the Municipal Market and the Market at Altinho. Shop for spices, cashews, and souvenirs to take home. As the evening sets in, head to Calangute Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Goa. Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the Arabian Sea, and enjoy a beachside dinner at one of the shacks.

  • Local Goan Breakfast: Estimated Cost - Budget-friendly, Time Spent - Morning
  • Panaji Markets: Estimated Cost - Shopping budget, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Calangute Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Cafe Bhonsle located in Panaji. This cozy eatery offers a traditional Goan breakfast with dishes like poi, xacuti, and Goan sausages. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
  • For lunch, try Vinayak Family Restaurant in Panaji. This local joint serves authentic Goan cuisine including seafood dishes like fish curry and prawn balchao. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
  • For dinner, visit Souza Lobo in Calangute. This beachside shack offers a delightful dining experience with a range of Goan seafood, Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, head to the peaceful Butterfly Beach, known for its tranquil surroundings and abundance of butterflies. Take a boat ride to reach this hidden gem and spend a relaxing day by the beach. Another local favorite is the Chapora Fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Explore the ruins and watch a mesmerizing sunset from this historical site. Finally, don't miss out on sampling Goan street food, such as pao bhaji, Goan fish curry, and bebinca, at local food stalls and small eateries to truly experience the flavors of Goa without breaking the bank.

Check out the best deals on hotels and flights for your trip to Goa here.

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Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed