Start your trip by exploring the capital city of Goa, Panaji. In the morning, visit the beautiful Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exquisite architecture. Afterward, head to the vibrant Mapusa Market and immerse yourself in the local culture while browsing through stalls selling spices, handicrafts, and fresh produce. In the afternoon, take a relaxing cruise on the Mandovi River and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the evening, visit the Fontainhas neighborhood, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses and charming cafes.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: No entrance fee, approximately 1 hour
Mapusa Market: No entrance fee, approximately 2 hours
Mandovi River Cruise: INR 300 per person, approximately 1 hour
Fontainhas: Free to explore, approximately 2 hours
Restaurants
A perfect spot for breakfast in Panaji is Café Bhonsle. This cozy café offers a delicious menu of breakfast items such as fluffy pancakes, tasty omelettes, and refreshing coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant. This local eatery serves a variety of Goan dishes including mouthwatering seafood curries, flavorful thali meals, and refreshing beverages. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Ritz Classic. This iconic Goan restaurant is known for its delectable Goan and Portuguese cuisine, featuring dishes like Goan fish curry, pork vindaloo, and bebinca for dessert. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, November 15: Beach Day in Calangute
Spend the day relaxing at Calangute Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Goa. In the morning, soak up the sun and enjoy swimming in the clear blue waters. You can also try water sports activities such as parasailing or jet skiing. After a beachside lunch, explore the nearby Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. In the evening, stroll along the bustling Calangute Market and shop for souvenirs.
Calangute Beach: Free, all day
Water sports activities: Prices vary, approximately 1-2 hours
Fort Aguada: INR 25 per person, approximately 1-2 hours
Calangute Market: Free to explore, approximately 2 hours
Restaurants
Café Lazydays: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Café Lazydays, known for its relaxing atmosphere and great selection of breakfast items. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Fisherman's Wharf: For a satisfying lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, a popular seafood restaurant near Calangute Beach. They offer a variety of fresh seafood dishes that are sure to please your taste buds. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Gunpowder: End your day with a memorable dinner at Gunpowder, a charming restaurant known for its South Indian and Goan cuisine. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food will leave you satisfied. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Calangute Beach is Cafe Lazydays, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, a seaside restaurant offering a variety of seafood dishes including the famous Goan fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about INR 700 per person.
In the evening, dine at Cavala, a charming restaurant and nightclub known for its live music performances and delectable grilled dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 900 per person.
Thursday, November 16: Wildlife Safari in Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Spend the day exploring the rich biodiversity of Goa at the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, embark on a thrilling wildlife safari and spot various species of animals and birds in their natural habitat. After the safari, visit the Deer Safari Park and get the opportunity to feed and interact with the gentle creatures. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature before visiting the Botanical Gardens, home to a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers. In the evening, relax and unwind in the serene surroundings of the sanctuary.
Wildlife Safari: INR 100 per person, approximately 2-3 hours
Deer Safari Park: INR 50 per person, approximately 1-2 hours
Botanical Gardens: INR 10 per person, approximately 1-2 hours
Picnic Lunch: Cost depends on personal preference
Restaurants
The Village Cafe is a quaint breakfast spot located near Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a variety of breakfast options such as sandwiches, omelettes, and pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Green Leaf Restaurant is a popular lunch spot known for its delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Try their Goan specialties like fish curry and prawn balchao. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
La Plage is a charming beachfront restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. Indulge in French and fusion cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, November 17: Waterfalls and Spice Plantations in Dudhsagar
Embark on an exciting day trip to Dudhsagar Waterfalls and spice plantations. In the morning, take a scenic train ride through the lush greenery to reach the majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Marvel at the cascading waterfalls and enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool. Afterward, visit a nearby spice plantation and learn about the cultivation of various spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amidst the plantation before returning to your accommodation in Goa.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls: INR 400 per person (includes train ride), approximately 4-5 hours
Spice Plantation: INR 500 per person (includes guided tour and lunch), approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Banyan Tree: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Banyan Tree, located near Dudhsagar Waterfalls. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options, including Goan specialties like poha and poi. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Garden of Spice: For a satisfying lunch after visiting the spice plantations, head to Garden of Spice. This restaurant serves authentic Goan cuisine cooked with farm-fresh spices. Indulge in dishes like Goan fish curry and prawn balchão. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Saltwater: End your day with a scrumptious dinner at Saltwater, a beachfront restaurant in Goa. Relish a range of seafood specialties like Goan fish thali and grilled prawns while enjoying the beautiful ocean view. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, November 18: Cultural Heritage in Old Goa
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Goa in Old Goa. In the morning, visit the iconic Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, and admire its stunning architecture. Explore the nearby Church of St. Francis of Assisi and the Archaeological Museum to delve deeper into the history and art of Goa. Afterward, visit the Museum of Christian Art, which houses a remarkable collection of Christian artifacts. In the evening, take a peaceful walk along the picturesque Divar Island and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Se Cathedral: No entrance fee, approximately 1 hour
Church of St. Francis of Assisi: INR 5 per person, approximately 1 hour
Archaeological Museum: INR 5 per person, approximately 1 hour
Museum of Christian Art: INR 10 per person, approximately 1 hour
Divar Island: Free to explore, approximately 2 hours
Restaurants
Head to Café Alchemia for breakfast, where you can indulge in a sumptuous spread of pancakes, waffles, and eggs cooked to perfection. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, visit Vinayak Family Restaurant and sample their delicious Goan cuisine, including mouthwatering fish curry and traditional thali. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
In the evening, dine at Mum's Kitchen, known for its authentic Goan flavors and warm ambiance. Don't miss their Goan Prawn Curry and Bebinca for dessert. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the peaceful and scenic Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda. This unique attraction allows you to witness numerous species of butterflies in their natural habitat. Another hidden gem is the Sahakari Spice Farm, where you can take a guided tour and learn about the cultivation of various spices. Kids will especially enjoy the Elephant Conservation and Wildlife Safari in the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, where they can see elephants up close and learn about wildlife conservation efforts.
For more information about hotels and flights in Goa, you can check here.