Five-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Goa, November 13-17, 2023

Monday, November 13: Exploring Panaji

Begin your trip by exploring the charming city of Panaji, the capital of Goa. In the morning, visit the beautiful Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, a historic Catholic church known for its stunning architecture. Afterward, head to the vibrant Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, filled with colorful houses and quaint streets. Enjoy a delicious Goan lunch at a local restaurant.

  • Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour
  • Fontainhas: Free, approximately 2 hours
  • Lunch: Estimated cost INR 500 per person, 1 hour

In the afternoon, take a scenic boat ride along the Mandovi River to explore the Divar Island. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and visit the ancient Saptakoteshwar Temple. In the evening, stroll along the lively waterfront promenade of Panaji and indulge in some street food.

  • Mandovi River Boat Ride: Estimated cost INR 500 per person, 2 hours
  • Saptakoteshwar Temple: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour
  • Street Food: Estimated cost INR 200 per person, 1 hour
Tuesday, November 14: Beach Day in Calangute

Start your day by heading to Calangute Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Goa. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands, swimming in the azure waters, and soaking up the sun. Try some thrilling water sports such as parasailing or jet skiing.

  • Calangute Beach: Free, approximately 3 hours
  • Water Sports: Estimated cost INR 1000 per person, 2 hours

Enjoy a delicious beachside lunch at one of the shacks offering fresh seafood. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Calangute market, known for its handicrafts and souvenirs. End the day with a mesmerizing sunset view from the nearby Baga Beach.

  • Beachside Lunch: Estimated cost INR 800 per person, 1 hour
  • Calangute Market: Free, approximately 2 hours
  • Baga Beach: Free, approximately 1 hour
Wednesday, November 15: Cultural Heritage in Old Goa

Embark on a cultural journey by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa. Start your morning with a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a 16th-century church housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Explore the nearby Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia.

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour
  • Se Cathedral: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour

Afterward, explore the Museum of Christian Art to admire its collection of Christian artifacts. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, visit the Archaeological Museum and Wax World Museum to gain insights into Goa's rich history and culture.

  • Museum of Christian Art: Estimated cost INR 100 per person, approximately 1 hour
  • Traditional Goan Lunch: Estimated cost INR 500 per person, 1 hour
  • Archaeological Museum: Estimated cost INR 200 per person, approximately 1 hour
  • Wax World Museum: Estimated cost INR 150 per person, approximately 1 hour
Thursday, November 16: Nature and Wildlife in Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature by visiting the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, explore the sanctuary's lush greenery and spot various species of birds and animals. Take a guided nature trail and visit the mini zoo to see deer, elephants, and monkeys.

  • Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee INR 20 per person, approximately 3 hours
  • Guided Nature Trail: Estimated cost INR 300 per person, 1 hour
  • Mini Zoo: Entrance fee INR 10 per person, approximately 1 hour

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings of the sanctuary. In the afternoon, relax by the man-made lake and visit the Botanical Gardens. End the day with a leisurely drive to the nearby Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple, a 13th-century temple hidden in the Western Ghats.

  • Picnic Lunch: Estimated cost INR 500 per person, 1 hour
  • Botanical Gardens: Entrance fee INR 10 per person, approximately 1 hour
  • Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour
Friday, November 17: Adventure at Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Embark on an exciting adventure by visiting the majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Start your day with an early morning jeep safari through the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, enjoying the scenic beauty and wildlife sightings along the way.

  • Jeep Safari: Estimated cost INR 1500 per person, approximately 4 hours

Upon reaching the waterfalls, marvel at the cascading waters and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the picturesque surroundings. In the afternoon, head back to Goa and spend some time relaxing at your hotel or exploring the local markets.

  • Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Entrance fee INR 400 per person, approximately 3 hours
  • Packed Lunch: Estimated cost INR 300 per person, 1 hour
  • Hotel/Market Explorations: Free, flexible time

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the peaceful Divar Island, a hidden gem in Goa. Explore the quaint village life, ride a bicycle along the narrow lanes, and interact with the friendly locals. Don't miss the chance to savor traditional Goan sweets and delicacies at the local bakeries. Divar Island offers a glimpse into the authentic Goan lifestyle away from the bustling tourist spots.

Check hotel and flight prices here.

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