3-day Family Friendly Itinerary for South Goa in May 2023

  1. Day 1: Explore the beaches
    30 minutes (11.6 miles) from Goa International Airport

    Goa is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in India, and your first day should be spent exploring them. Start your day off at Colva Beach, known for its white sand and clear blue water. Take a stroll along the shore or relax with a book. Drive to Benaulim Beach in the afternoon for a seafood lunch and a dip in the ocean. Finish off your day with a sunset picnic at Polem Beach, a relatively untouched beach known for its tranquility.

  2. Day 2: Historical Sites and Spice Plantations
    50 minutes (18.4 miles) from Polem Beach

    Begin your day at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which contains the preserved remains of Saint Francis Xavier, a Catholic missionary. Walk to the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, and admire its Portuguese-Gothic architecture. Learn about the region's spice industry at the Sahakari Spice Farm and tour its gardens. Finish up your day with a traditional Goan dinner at Mum's Kitchen, known for its unique blend of Indian, Portuguese, and Goan cuisine.

  3. Day 3: Mangroves and Crocodiles
    1 hour 30 minutes (45 miles) from Mum's Kitchen

    Start your day with a kayaking tour of the Sal Backwaters mangrove forests, home to a variety of plant and animal species, including crocodiles. Next, visit the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary to go on a guided trek and spot animals such as leopards, bison, and sambar deer. Take a break for lunch at The Black Sheep Bistro, known for its innovative fusion cuisine and cocktails. End your day with a visit to the Shri Mangeshi Temple, one of the largest Hindu temples in Goa, and marvel at its colorful architecture.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Colva Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Benaulim Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Polem Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Basilica of Bom Jesus (1 hour, free)
  • Se Cathedral (1 hour, free)
  • Sahakari Spice Farm (2 hours, INR 400 per person)
  • Mum's Kitchen (2 hours, INR 1000 for two people)
  • Kayaking Tour (2 hours, INR 1500 per person, equipment included)
  • Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 20 per person)
  • The Black Sheep Bistro (1.5 hours, INR 1500 for two people)
  • Shri Mangeshi Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 4280 ($58.60)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Dudhsagar Falls, a cascading waterfall that is a sight to behold. Alternatively, for a more relaxed experience, spend a day at a spa retreat and enjoy some rejuvenating treatments. If you have less time, you can skip the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary or the kayaking tour and still have an enjoyable trip. Make sure to check the opening and closing times of each location before you visit to avoid disappointment.

0