5-Day Adventure Itinerary in Goa, August 29 - September 2, 2023
Tuesday, August 29: Exploring Panaji
Start your adventure in Goa by discovering the capital city, Panaji. In the morning, head to the Fontainhas neighborhood, known for its picturesque streets and colorful Portuguese-style houses. Explore the narrow lanes on foot, taking in the charming architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Goa State Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. As the evening approaches, enjoy a sunset cruise along the Mandovi River, taking in the scenic views of the city's skyline.
Fontainhas: No cost, 2-3 hours
Goa State Museum: Entrance fee: approximately ₹200 ($3), 2-3 hours
Sunset Cruise: Approximately ₹500-1000 ($7-14), 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Panaji is Cafe Bhonsle, known for its delicious Goan breakfast dishes such as poha, upma, and Goan poee bread. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Ritz Classic, a local favorite known for its authentic Goan seafood dishes like fish curry and prawn balchão. The average cost for a meal at Ritz Classic is about ₹400 per person.
To end your day in Panaji, enjoy dinner at Mum's Kitchen, a restaurant famous for its traditional Goan delicacies. Try the Goan fish curry rice or pork vindaloo for an authentic Goan dining experience. The average cost for a meal at Mum's Kitchen is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, August 30: Trekking in Dudhsagar
Embark on an exciting trek to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of Goa's most stunning natural wonders. Start your day early and reach the base of the falls by mid-morning. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool beneath the cascades. After a picnic lunch, trek through the lush forests surrounding the falls and admire the panoramic views. Return to the base by late afternoon. In the evening, relax and unwind at your hotel.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls: No cost, 6-8 hours
Restaurants
Mama's Breakfast House: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Mama's Breakfast House, where you can enjoy a variety of fresh and tasty options. From fluffy pancakes to hearty omelettes, Mama's has it all. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
Beach Shack: For a leisurely lunch by the beach, head to Beach Shack. This laid-back restaurant offers a menu filled with seafood delicacies, such as grilled prawns, fish curry, and calamari. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
Taverna: Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Taverna, known for its rustic ambience and delectable Goan cuisine. From mouthwatering vindaloo to succulent seafood platters, Taverna's menu has something to please every palate. Average cost for a meal is about INR 600 per person.
Thursday, August 31: Water Sports in Calangute
Head to the popular beach town of Calangute for an adventurous day filled with water sports. Start your morning by trying your hand at parasailing or jet skiing, enjoying the thrill of speeding through the waves. After a delicious beachside lunch, experience the exhilaration of banana boat rides or water tubing. Wrap up the day with a relaxing sunset yoga session on the beach. In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife and indulge in Goan cuisine.
Calangute Beach: No cost, full day
Water Sports: Approximately ₹1000-3000 ($14-42) per activity, 4-6 hours
Sunset Yoga: No cost, 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Calangute is Cafe Sussegado Souza, known for its deliciously fluffy pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, visit Souza Lobo, a beachside restaurant that offers a variety of Goan seafood specialties. Don't miss their mouthwatering prawn curry. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹800 per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Martin's Corner for dinner. This restaurant is famous for its authentic Goan dishes, such as Goan fish curry and pork vindaloo. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹1000 per person.
Friday, September 1: Trekking in Mollem National Park
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mollem National Park. Start your day with a guided trek through the dense forests, encountering diverse flora and fauna along the way. Visit the iconic Tambdi Surla Temple, a 13th-century Hindu temple tucked away in the wilderness. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings. As you hike back, stop by the picturesque Devil's Canyon for breathtaking views. Return to your hotel in the evening for relaxation.
Mollem National Park: Entrance fee: approximately ₹100 ($1.4), 6-8 hours
Tambdi Surla Temple: No cost, 1-2 hours
Devil's Canyon: No cost, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Alchemia: A charming cafe nestled in the heart of Mollem, serving delicious breakfast options including freshly baked pastries, organic eggs, and smoothie bowls. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Mollem View Restaurant: Enjoy a hearty lunch at this restaurant offering panoramic views of Mollem National Park. Indulge in Goan specialties like fish curry and rice, pork vindaloo, and vegetarian thali. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Wilderness Grill: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at this open-air restaurant where you can savor grilled seafood, juicy steaks, and flavorsome vegetarian dishes. The cozy ambiance and live music add to the experience. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, September 2: Scuba Diving in Grande Island
Conclude your adventure in Goa with an unforgettable scuba diving experience at Grande Island. Join a guided diving excursion to explore the vibrant underwater world of Goa. Marvel at colorful coral reefs, spot exotic marine life, and swim alongside beautiful fish. After the dive, enjoy a scrumptious beachside lunch on the island. Spend the afternoon relaxing and snorkeling before returning to the mainland. In the evening, bid farewell to Goa and cherish the memories of your exciting adventure.
Grande Island: Approximately ₹4000-6000 ($56-84) for a scuba diving package, full day
Snorkeling: Approximately ₹500-1000 ($7-14), 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Cafe del Mar: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe del Mar, located near Grande Island. This charming beachfront cafe offers a variety of breakfast options such as fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about ₹300 per person.
Lazy Dog's Bar & Restaurant: For lunch, head to Lazy Dog's Bar & Restaurant, a cozy eatery overlooking the picturesque beach. Indulge in a mouthwatering seafood platter or relish their famous Goan curry dishes. The average cost for a lunch meal is about ₹600 per person.
Viva Panjim: Enjoy a memorable dinner experience at Viva Panjim, a quaint Goan restaurant that serves traditional Goan delicacies. Savor the flavors of their signature fish curry, prawn balchao, and Goan sausage pulao. The average cost for a dinner meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites:
For adventurous travelers seeking off the beaten path experiences, head to Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary. Located in South Goa, this lesser-known sanctuary offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring its pristine forests. Another local favorite is the Tambdi Surla Waterfall, a secluded and serene cascade nestled amid lush greenery. Venture out and discover these hidden gems to add an extra touch of adventure to your Goa trip.