Welcome to Goa, the beach paradise of India! After your arrival, check-in at your chosen hotel and take some time to relax and settle in. In the morning, head to Baga Beach to soak up the sun and enjoy the warm waters of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, visit the Splashdown Waterpark, where your family can have a blast on thrilling water slides and enjoy various water activities. As the evening approaches, explore the vibrant Anjuna Flea Market, offering a wide range of local handicrafts, clothes, and mouth-watering street food.
Baga Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Splashdown Waterpark: Cost - INR 600 per person, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
A popular breakfast spot near Baga Beach is Cafe Sussegado. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options including traditional Goan dishes and international favorites. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Britto's, a renowned beachside restaurant in Baga. They serve a wide range of seafood dishes as well as Indian and Continental cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 800 per person.
In the evening, visit Gunpowder, a charming restaurant in Assagao. They specialize in South Indian and Goan dishes with a modern twist. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 1000 per person.
Saturday, December 16: Historical Charm and Nature's Beauty
Start your day by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa, known for its stunning cathedrals and churches. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, head to Dudhsagar Falls, a majestic four-tiered waterfall nestled in the lush Western Ghats. Enjoy the scenic beauty and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool beneath the falls. In the evening, take a relaxing sunset cruise on the Mandovi River, admiring the picturesque views of Goa's coastline.
Old Goa: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Dudhsagar Falls: Cost - INR 400 per person (approx.), Time Spent - 4-5 hours
Mandovi River Cruise: Cost - INR 300 per person (approx.), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Old Goa is Café Alchemia, known for their freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Martin's Corner in Betalbatim. This famous seafood restaurant offers a variety of Goan delicacies and the average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Mum's Kitchen in Panjim for dinner. They serve traditional Goan dishes with a contemporary twist and the average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, December 17: Wildlife Encounters and Adventure
Embark on an exciting day trip to the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. Explore the park's diverse flora and fauna, including the famous Bengal tigers and leopards. Take a thrilling jeep safari through the dense forests to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various species of birds, reptiles, and animals. Enjoy a family picnic amidst nature's tranquility. In the evening, head back to your hotel or explore the vibrant nightlife of Goa.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park: Cost - INR 100 per person (approx.), Time Spent - 4-5 hours
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost - INR 5 per person (approx.), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Evening leisure time: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Flexible
Restaurants
Cafe Suzettes: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Suzettes offering a wide range of crepes and pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Souza Lobo: Indulge in a traditional Goan lunch at Souza Lobo, known for its delectable seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Tuscany Gardens: Enjoy a memorable dinner at Tuscany Gardens, an Italian restaurant offering a variety of pasta, pizzas, and wine. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Monday, December 18: Beach Hopping and Water Sports
Start your day by visiting Calangute Beach, one of the most popular and largest beaches in Goa. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beach games with your family. In the afternoon, head to Candolim Beach for thrilling water sports activities such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing. Watch the sunset while sipping on refreshing coconut water. In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife and delicious seafood shacks in Panaji, the capital city of Goa.
Calangute Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - Flexible
Candolim Beach and Water Sports: Cost - Varies depending on activities, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Evening in Panaji: Cost - Varies depending on activities, Time Spent - Flexible
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Calangute Beach is Cafe Chocolatti, known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200-300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf in Candolim, a waterfront restaurant offering a variety of seafood dishes and Goan delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about 500-700 INR per person.
In Panaji, try out Vinayak Family Restaurant for dinner, famous for its North Indian and Goan cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 300-400 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 19: Cultural Delights and Spice Plantations
Immerse yourself in Goa's rich cultural heritage by visiting the Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses and narrow streets. Explore the area's art galleries, boutiques, and quaint cafes. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of a spice plantation in Ponda and learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amidst the lush greenery. In the evening, experience a mesmerizing live music and dance performance at one of Goa's popular cultural shows.
Fontainhas: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Spice Plantation Tour: Cost - INR 500 per person (approx.), Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Cultural Show: Cost - INR 300 per person (approx.), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Last Day in Paradise
On your last day in Goa, spend a relaxing morning at Palolem Beach, known for its pristine white sands and calm waters. Take a leisurely swim or indulge in beach yoga to rejuvenate your mind and body. In the afternoon, visit the Goa Chitra Museum, which showcases the rural agrarian lifestyle and traditional artifacts of Goa. Wrap up your trip by enjoying a delicious seafood dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants. Bid farewell to Goa with beautiful memories of your family-friendly adventure.
Palolem Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - Flexible
Goa Chitra Museum: Cost - INR 200 per person (approx.), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Seafood Dinner: Cost - Varies depending on restaurant, Time Spent - Flexible
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, visit the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, a lesser-known gem where you can spot unique flora and fauna, go bird watching, and explore nature trails. Another local favorite is the Divar Island, accessible by ferry, offering picturesque landscapes, traditional Goan houses, and a peaceful environment away from the tourist crowds. Don't forget to try out local Goan snacks like the delicious Goan fish cutlets and the mouth-watering bebinca, a layered Goan dessert made with coconut milk, eggs, and spices.