4-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Goa

  1. Day 1: Basilica of Bom Jesus
    35 minutes (15.3 km) from Goa Airport

    The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India's oldest churches, completed in 1605. It is famous for the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, which are displayed every ten years and attract pilgrims from all over the world. The impressive Baroque-style architecture, intricate woodwork, and beautiful altars make this church an unmissable attraction.

  2. Day 2: Anjuna Beach
    30 minutes (17.6 km) from Basilica of Bom Jesus

    Anjuna Beach is popular with families for its calm waters and soft sandy beaches. The beach also offers a variety of water sports such as parasailing, banana boat rides, and jet-skiing. The famous flea market is held every Wednesday where you can explore local handicrafts, clothes, souvenirs, and enjoy street food. The restaurants and shacks near the beach offer fresh seafood and drinks with live music performances in the evenings.

  3. Day 3: Dudhsagar Falls
    1 hour 30 minutes (64 km) from Anjuna Beach

    The Dudhsagar Falls is a four-tiered waterfall located on the Mandovi River in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. The waterfall got its name from its milky white color as the water cascades down from a height of 310 meters. You can enjoy the view of the waterfall, swim in the natural pool created by the waterfall, and indulge in trekking through the lush green forest.

  4. Day 4: Aguada Fort
    45 minutes (16 km) from Dudhsagar Falls

    The Aguada Fort is a 17th-century Portuguese fort overlooking the Arabian Sea and the Mandovi River. The fort served as a defense against the Dutch and Marathas and was strategically built to keep the entry of ships in check. You can explore the lighthouse, visit a prison, and take a stroll around the fort to enjoy the scenic views. The fort also houses the Central Jail, which is one of the largest jails in Goa.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus (1-2 hours, free entry)
  • Anjuna Beach (4-5 hours, water sports and food extra)
  • Dudhsagar Falls (5-6 hours, entry fee and trekking charges extra)
  • Aguada Fort (2-3 hours, free entry)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 3000-4000 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add visits to other beaches such as Baga and Calangute. Goa is also famous for its nightlife and casinos, so you can explore them too. Additionally, you can subtract activities or places if you have less time available, for example, you can skip the flea market at Anjuna beach if you're visiting on a day other than Wednesday, or you can avoid trekking at Dudhsagar Falls if you're traveling with young children.

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