Start your trip by exploring the capital city of Goa, Panaji. In the morning, visit the beautiful Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and soak in its serene atmosphere. Afterward, head to the vibrant Fontainhas neighborhood, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Goa State Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll along the Mandovi River and enjoy the sunset.
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Fontainhas: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Goa State Museum: Cost - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
Mandovi River: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Breakfast: Café Alchemia - Located in the heart of Panaji, Café Alchemia offers a delicious breakfast menu with options ranging from freshly baked pastries to hearty omelettes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
Lunch: Fisherman's Wharf - Situated near the Mandovi River, Fisherman's Wharf is a popular restaurant known for its delectable seafood dishes. Enjoy the catch of the day while soaking in the riverside views. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Dinner: Viva Panjim - Experience authentic Goan cuisine at Viva Panjim, a cozy restaurant that showcases the culinary heritage of the region. Indulge in flavorful curries, spicy seafood, and traditional desserts. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 600 per person.
Wednesday, September 27: Beach Day in Colva
Spend a relaxing day at the popular Colva Beach. In the morning, enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline, taking in the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Set up your beach umbrella and spend the afternoon sunbathing or participating in water sports activities like jet skiing or parasailing. Indulge in delicious seafood at one of the beachside shacks for lunch. In the evening, explore the local markets and shops near the beach.
Colva Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - Full day
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Colva Beach is Café Del Mar. They serve delicious English breakfast options along with a range of continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, a charming restaurant overlooking the sea. They offer a variety of seafood delicacies like butter garlic prawns and fish curry. The average cost for a meal is about INR 600 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Martin's Corner. Known for its cozy ambiance and authentic Goan cuisine, this restaurant offers a wide range of dishes such as Goan fish curry and pork vindaloo. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Thursday, September 28: Wildlife Safari in Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Embark on an exciting wildlife adventure at Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary. Start your day with an early morning safari through the sanctuary. Spot various species of birds, monkeys, deer, and if you're lucky, even leopards. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst the serene surroundings. After the safari, take a nature walk along the trails and learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the sanctuary. In the afternoon, have a picnic lunch and relax in the peaceful ambiance. Before leaving, visit the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary Interpretation Centre to enhance your knowledge about the sanctuary's conservation efforts.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost - INR 200 per person, Time Spent - 6 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Spice Goa. This charming restaurant offers a wide variety of breakfast options, ranging from traditional Goan dishes to international favorites. The average cost for a meal at Spice Goa is about ₹300 per person.
For a scrumptious lunch, head to Martin's Corner. Located nearby, this popular restaurant serves delectable Goan seafood dishes along with a range of vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal at Martin's Corner is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Fisherman's Wharf. This waterfront restaurant offers a stunning ambiance and serves a wide selection of fresh seafood prepared in Goan and international styles. The average cost for a meal at Fisherman's Wharf is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, September 29: Cultural Heritage in Old Goa
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Old Goa. Begin your day by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Basilica of Bom Jesus, known for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Visit the nearby Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. Enjoy a Goan lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the Museum of Christian Art to witness the exquisite collection of religious artifacts. Take a walk through the picturesque streets of Old Goa, admiring the well-preserved Portuguese architecture. End your day with a relaxing sunset cruise on the Mandovi River.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Se Cathedral: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Museum of Christian Art: Cost - INR 10 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
Sunset Cruise on Mandovi River: Cost - INR 300 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Alchemia, a charming café known for its freshly brewed coffee and mouthwatering pastries. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Martin's Corner, a popular local restaurant serving authentic Goan cuisine. Indulge in their famous fish curry and rice or try their delicious Goan thali. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
In the evening, dine at Fisherman's Wharf, a waterfront restaurant offering a stunning view of the river. Enjoy their wide range of seafood dishes, including their famous prawn curry and Goan fish fry. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique family experience, visit the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, which offers a mini zoo, nature trails, and a deer park. Another offbeat attraction is the Naval Aviation Museum, showcasing the rich history of Indian naval aviation. Families can also enjoy a day trip to the picturesque Butterfly Beach, known for its pristine beauty and abundance of butterflies. Don't forget to try authentic Goan cuisine at local restaurants, such as fish curry, pork vindaloo, and bebinca, a traditional Goan dessert.