Wednesday, September 13: Exploring the Heritage of Old Goa
Start your cultural immersion in North Goa by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa. In the morning, explore the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a 16th-century church that houses the sacred remains of St. Francis Xavier. Afterward, head to the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Christian Art to learn about the region's religious art and history. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll through the Fontainhas neighborhood, known for its quaint Portuguese-style houses and vibrant street art.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Se Cathedral: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Museum of Christian Art: Estimated cost - ₹100 ($1.35), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Alchemia, known for its cozy ambience and wide variety of European and Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Goan cuisine including mouthwatering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Ritz Classic, a charming restaurant offering a mix of Indian and Chinese delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Thursday, September 14: An Exploration of Goa's Spice Plantations
Embark on a journey to explore Goa's aromatic spice plantations. In the morning, visit the Sahakari Spice Farm and indulge in a guided tour that introduces you to the various spices grown in the region. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amidst the serene surroundings of the plantation. In the afternoon, take a refreshing dip in the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, known for its milky white cascades. As the evening sets in, witness a mesmerizing sunset at the Mandovi River while cruising on a traditional Goan boat.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Estimated cost - ₹400 ($5.40) for entry and transportation, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Mandovi River Sunset Cruise: Estimated cost - ₹800 ($10.80), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Start your day with a delightful breakfast at The Breakfast Club, a cozy cafe known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Spice Garden Restaurant: Treat yourself to a flavorful Goan lunch at Spice Garden Restaurant, located within the Sahakari Spice Farm. Enjoy traditional Goan delicacies infused with authentic spices from the plantation. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
The River View Grill: End your day with a delightful dinner at The River View Grill, a waterfront restaurant offering panoramic views of the Mandovi River. Savor delectable seafood dishes and local Goan specialties while enjoying the serene ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, September 15: Cultural Delights in the Village of Assagao
Experience the rustic charm of the village of Assagao, known for its art galleries and traditional Goan houses. In the morning, visit the Dattatreya Temple, a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya. Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in a yoga or meditation session. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant art scene with visits to the various art galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional Goan artworks. As the evening arrives, savor the flavors of Goan cuisine at a traditional Goan restaurant.
Art Galleries in Assagao: Estimated cost - Free (some may have entry fees), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Traditional Goan Restaurant: Estimated cost - ₹800-₹1500 ($10.80-$20.20) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, September 16: Sunrise at Chapora Fort and Beach Exploration
Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise view from Chapora Fort. In the morning, hike up to the fort and witness the golden hues of the rising sun over the Arabian Sea. Afterward, head to Vagator Beach, known for its pristine shores and vibrant beach shacks. Enjoy water sports activities or simply relax by the beach. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Anjuna Beach, famous for its flea market where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs. As the evening sets in, indulge in beachside dining and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Anjuna Flea Market: Estimated cost - Free entry, shopping expenses as per choice, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Beachside Dining: Estimated cost - ₹800-₹1500 ($10.80-$20.20) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Mango Tree Restaurant. This cozy eatery offers a wide range of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to traditional Goan pao bhaji. The average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Satisfy your hunger at Fisherman's Wharf for a scrumptious lunch. This waterfront restaurant serves fresh seafood delicacies, such as Goan fish curry and grilled prawns. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Gunpowder Restaurant. Indulge in a fusion of Indian and South-East Asian cuisines, with dishes like Andhra-style mutton curry and spicy Vietnamese pork. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, September 17: Cultural Heritage of Mapusa and Authentic Goan Music
Explore the cultural heritage of Mapusa, a bustling town known for its vibrant market and historical landmarks. In the morning, visit the Mapusa Market, a bustling hub where locals gather to buy fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and interact with local vendors. In the afternoon, visit the Sri Kalika Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. As the evening approaches, head to a Goan music performance where you can enjoy traditional Goan music and dance performances.
Sri Kalika Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Goan Music Performance: Estimated cost - ₹500-₹1000 ($6.75-$13.50) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Mapusa is Café Tato, known for its delicious Goan-style pao bhaji and a cup of hot chai. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Vinanti Restaurant, a local eatery offering a variety of Goan seafood dishes such as prawn curry and fish thali. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, have dinner at Vinayak Family Restaurant, known for its authentic Goan delicacies like chicken xacuti and pork vindaloo. Average cost for a dinner meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly immersive cultural experience, consider exploring the lesser-known gems of North Goa. Visit the peaceful village of Aldona, known for its picturesque backwaters and traditional Goan way of life. Explore the ancestral houses and interact with the locals to get a glimpse into their customs and traditions. Another hidden gem is the Museum of Goa in Pilerne, offering a unique perspective on Goan art and history. Additionally, take a walk through the peaceful village of Chorao and visit the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, an ideal spot for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.
Before finalizing your trip, make sure to check the latest hotel and flight prices on Kayak.