Are you ready for a fun-filled family adventure in South Goa? This 5-day itinerary will take you to some of the most iconic and family-friendly attractions in the region. From beautiful beaches to historical sites, there's something for everyone to enjoy!
Tuesday, September 26: Old Goa
In the morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa. Explore the stunning churches, such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, which are rich in history and architectural beauty. In the afternoon, head to the Museum of Christian Art to learn more about the region's religious heritage. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Mandovi River and enjoy the sunset.
Old Goa Churches: Entrance fees: INR 10-50 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Museum of Christian Art: Entrance fees: INR 10-20 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Mandovi River Walk: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, where you can indulge in delicious pancakes and fresh fruit smoothies. The average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf and savor their mouthwatering seafood dishes, like the Goan prawn curry. The average cost for a meal is about 700 rupees per person.
End your day with an exquisite dinner at Martin's Corner, known for its delectable Goan cuisine. Try their famous Goan fish curry and bebinca for dessert. The average cost for a meal is about 800 rupees per person.
Wednesday, September 27: Colva Beach
Start your day with a relaxing morning at Colva Beach. Enjoy the soft sand, gentle waves, and picturesque views. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Our Lady of Merces Church, known for its stunning architecture. As the evening approaches, explore the local market for souvenirs and indulge in some Goan street food.
Colva Beach: Free, Time spent: 4-6 hours
Our Lady of Merces Church: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Local Market: Cost of souvenirs, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Colva Beach is Café Coffee Day, known for its range of coffees and tasty breakfast options. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh catch and Goan specialties. Enjoy the laid-back ambience and delicious food at an average cost of around INR 800 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Martin's Corner, a famous restaurant offering a variety of Goan dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 900 per person.
Thursday, September 28: Dudhsagar Falls
Embark on an exciting adventure to Dudhsagar Falls. Start early in the morning and take a scenic train ride from Madgaon to Kulem. From there, enjoy a thrilling jeep safari to the waterfalls and marvel at the stunning cascades amidst the lush greenery. Spend the afternoon swimming and relaxing in the natural pools before returning to South Goa.
Train from Madgaon to Kulem: INR 100-200 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Jeep Safari to Dudhsagar Falls: INR 400-800 per person, Time spent: 4-6 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Martin's Corner, known for its traditional Goan cuisine. Indulge in their fluffy omelettes and crispy bacon. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf for an authentic seafood experience. Try their famous Goan fish curry with rice and enjoy the panoramic river view. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Garden Restaurant at Taj Exotica Resort. Savor their gourmet dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients and enjoy the elegant ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
Friday, September 29: Palolem Beach
Spend a day at the beautiful Palolem Beach. Start your morning with a yoga session on the beach to rejuvenate your mind and body. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Butterfly Beach, where you can spot dolphins and indulge in snorkeling. As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside dinner at one of the many shacks offering delicious seafood.
Yoga Session: INR 200-500 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Boat Trip to Butterfly Beach: INR 800-1500 per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Beachside Dinner: Cost of food, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Space Goa, a cozy cafe serving delicious omelettes and fresh fruit juices. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Dropadi, a charming beachside restaurant that offers a variety of seafood dishes including grilled prawns and crispy calamari. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Ourem 88, a popular restaurant known for its mouthwatering Goan cuisine. Don't miss their famous fish curry and traditional Goan sweets. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Saturday, September 30: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
End your trip with a visit to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Explore the lush greenery and encounter various animal species. Take a nature walk to spot birds and butterflies, visit the zoo to see wildlife up close, and enjoy a picnic amidst the serene surroundings. In the evening, head back to South Goa and relax at your hotel.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fees: INR 5-10 per person, Time spent: 4-6 hours
Picnic: Cost of food, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Alchemia which offers a variety of delicious continental and Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try Fisherman's Wharf, a waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and Goan delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
For dinner, visit Martin's Corner, a popular family restaurant famous for its authentic Goan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring South Goa, make sure to visit the peaceful Galgibaga Beach, known for its pristine beauty and the nesting site of olive ridley sea turtles. Another hidden gem is the Chandor Village, where you can admire beautifully preserved heritage houses. Locals also recommend visiting the Agonda Beach, famous for its serene ambiance and picturesque sunsets. These off the beaten path attractions will provide you with a unique and memorable experience for the whole family.