North Goa Adventure: 7-Day Itinerary

Friday, September 22: Arrival in North Goa

Welcome to North Goa! Start your adventure by checking into your hotel and exploring the nearby area. In the morning, take a stroll along the beautiful Calangute Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Goa. Enjoy the sun, sand, and breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with stunning panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. End your day with a vibrant evening at Baga Beach, known for its lively nightlife and water sports.

• Calangute Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Fort Aguada: INR 200 (entrance fee), 1-2 hours
• Baga Beach: Free, Evening

Saturday, September 23: Dudhsagar Waterfalls and Spice Plantation

Embark on an exciting day trip to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Start your morning with a scenic train ride through the lush Western Ghats to reach the falls. Spend the afternoon marveling at the magnificent cascades and taking a refreshing dip in the natural pool. On your way back, visit a spice plantation to learn about Goa's aromatic spice trade and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch.

• Dudhsagar Waterfalls: INR 400 (entrance fee + train journey), 6-8 hours
• Spice Plantation: INR 500 (approx.), 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Alchemia which offers a variety of freshly brewed coffees and delicious baked goodies. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, check out Spice Goa Restaurant located near the spice plantation. Indulge in authentic Goan cuisine including spicy seafood curries and flavorful vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 400 INR per person.
• For dinner, visit Gunpowder Restaurant known for its rustic ambiance and lip-smacking South Indian fare. Don't miss their signature dishes like appam with stew and Kerala-style fish curry. Average cost for a dinner meal is about 800 INR per person.

Sunday, September 24: Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Indulge in thrilling underwater adventures today. Start your morning by exploring the vibrant marine life through scuba diving at Grande Island. Marvel at the colorful coral reefs and swim alongside tropical fishes. Afterward, head to the picturesque Bogmalo Beach for some snorkeling. Relax on the beach and soak up the sun while enjoying the crystal-clear waters.

• Scuba Diving (Grande Island): INR 3,000-4,000 (approx.), 4-6 hours
• Snorkeling (Bogmalo Beach): INR 500 (approx.), 2-3 hours

Monday, September 25: Trekking at Chorla Ghat

Get ready for a day of adventure amidst the lush greenery of Chorla Ghat. Embark on a scenic trek through the dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque valleys. Enjoy breathtaking views from the viewpoints along the trail. After the trek, visit the beautiful Harvalem Waterfall and relax in its serene surroundings.

• Chorla Ghat Trek: INR 1,500 (approx.), 6-8 hours
• Harvalem Waterfall: Free, 1-2 hours

Tuesday, September 26: Kayaking in the Backwaters

Experience the tranquility of Goa's backwaters through an adventurous kayaking expedition. Start your morning by paddling through the calm waters of the Nerul River and exploring the mangrove-lined channels. Enjoy the scenic beauty and spot diverse bird species along the way. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Chapora Fort, famous for its panoramic views of the river and coastline.

• Kayaking in Nerul River: INR 1,000 (approx.), 3-4 hours
• Chapora Fort: Free, 1-2 hours

Wednesday, September 27: ATV Riding and Sunset Cruise

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience with ATV riding. Head to the sandy terrains of Anjuna and enjoy an off-road adventure on all-terrain vehicles. Feel the thrill as you maneuver through challenging trails and scenic landscapes. In the evening, take a relaxing sunset cruise along the Mandovi River, enjoying the mesmerizing views and Goan music.

• ATV Riding (Anjuna): INR 1,500 (approx.), 2-3 hours
• Sunset Cruise (Mandovi River): INR 1,000 (approx.), 2-3 hours

Thursday, September 28: Yoga and Spice Market Visit

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session on the serene beaches of North Goa. Immerse yourself in the calming atmosphere and learn the art of relaxation. Afterward, visit the bustling Mapusa Market, known for its vibrant colors and aromatic spices. Explore the stalls, interact with the locals, and purchase some unique souvenirs.

• Yoga Session: Free or INR 500 (approx.), 1-2 hours
• Mapusa Market: Free, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers looking for off-the-beaten-path attractions, head to Arambol Beach, located in North Goa. Known for its bohemian vibe, this beach offers opportunities for paragliding, yoga retreats, and drum circle gatherings. Another hidden gem is the Divar Island, accessible by ferry. Explore its scenic villages, ancient temples, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings away from the tourist crowds.

Check here for hotel and flight prices in North Goa.