Start your trip in the capital city of Goa, Panaji. In the morning, visit the historic Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses. Afternoon can be spent at the serene Miramar Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the scenic views. In the evening, head to the vibrant Market Square for local street food and shopping.
Fontainhas: INR 0, 2 hours
Miramar Beach: INR 0, 3 hours
Market Square: INR 100, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Bhonsle, a charming café in Panaji known for its delicious breakfast menu. Enjoy a hearty meal of traditional Goan dishes like poha and poi. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try Vinayak Family Restaurant, a popular eatery in Panaji known for its authentic Goan cuisine. Indulge in dishes like fish curry and rice or prawn balchao. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit Mum's Kitchen, a cozy restaurant in Panaji that offers a variety of Goan and international dishes. Try their famous Goan fish curry or Goan sausage pulao. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹500 per person.
Sunday, December 10: Explore Old Goa
Discover the rich heritage of Old Goa. Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site, Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Afternoon can be spent exploring the ancient Se Cathedral and the beautifully preserved Church of St. Cajetan. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mandovi River.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: INR 0, 1 hour
Se Cathedral: INR 0, 1 hour
Church of St. Cajetan: INR 0, 1 hour
Sunset Cruise: INR 500, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Alchemia where you can enjoy delicious Goan poee bread sandwiches and refreshing masala chai. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Vinayak Family Restaurant which offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Goan dishes like fish curry, vindaloo, and prawn balchao. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Martin's Corner that serves mouthwatering Goan delicacies like pork sorpotel, Goan fish curry, and bebinca for dessert. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, December 11: Visit Dudhsagar Falls
Embark on an adventure to Dudhsagar Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls. Take a guided trek through the lush green forests to witness the breathtaking cascades. Spend the day enjoying the natural beauty and take a refreshing dip in the pool beneath the falls. Return to Goa in the evening.
Dudhsagar Falls Trek: INR 1,000, 8 hours
Restaurants
Mango Tree Restaurant: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Mango Tree Restaurant, located near Dudhsagar Falls. This charming restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Goan dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Butterfly Beach Café: For a satisfying lunch, head to Butterfly Beach Café, which is situated on the beautiful Butterfly Beach. Enjoy stunning views of the beach while feasting on fresh seafood, sandwiches, and salads. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Gunpowder: End your day with a delightful dinner at Gunpowder, a popular restaurant in Goa known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Indulge in flavorsome curries, dosas, and biryanis, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 12: Relax at Palolem Beach
Head to the picturesque Palolem Beach in South Goa. Spend the morning lounging on the golden sands and swimming in the clear waters. In the afternoon, explore the quaint town surrounding the beach, visit the market for local handicrafts, and indulge in some delicious seafood. Enjoy the stunning sunset from a beachside shack.
Palolem Beach: INR 0, 4 hours
Local Market: INR 200, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty Indian breakfast at Spice Goa. This restaurant offers a variety of traditional dishes such as dosas, idlis, and poha. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a delicious seafood lunch, head to Dropadi Beach Shack. Located right on Palolem Beach, this restaurant serves fresh seafood dishes like grilled fish, prawn curry, and calamari. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a delectable dinner at Artjuna Garden Cafe. This cozy cafe offers a range of international cuisine, including Mediterranean and Italian dishes. Don't miss out on their wood-fired pizzas and homemade desserts. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, December 13: Discover the Spice Plantations
Experience the aromatic world of spice plantations in Ponda. Take a guided tour through the lush plantations, learning about the cultivation and processing of various spices. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amidst the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Mangeshi Temple, a popular Hindu pilgrimage site.
Spice Plantation Tour: INR 400, 4 hours
Mangeshi Temple: INR 0, 1 hour
Thursday, December 14: Explore Fort Aguada and Anjuna Beach
Start your day by visiting the historic Fort Aguada, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Explore the intricate architecture and the lighthouse. In the afternoon, head to Anjuna Beach, known for its vibrant flea market. Stroll along the beach, shop for unique souvenirs, and enjoy a mesmerizing sunset.
Fort Aguada: INR 0, 2 hours
Anjuna Flea Market: INR 0, 3 hours
Friday, December 15: Explore the Dudhsagar Plantation and Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Spend your last day in Goa amidst nature. Begin with a visit to the Dudhsagar Plantation, where you can learn about organic farming and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Afterward, head to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various flora and fauna. Take a leisurely walk in the sanctuary and visit the mini zoo.
Dudhsagar Plantation: INR 300, 3 hours
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 50, 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, explore the peaceful Divar Island, just a short ferry ride from Panaji. Visit the picturesque Churches of Divar and enjoy the tranquility of the island. Another local favorite is the bustling Mapusa Market, where you can find a wide range of Goan spices, handicrafts, and fresh produce at affordable prices.