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5-Day Goa Itinerary for Shoestring Budget Travelers in September 2023

  1. Day 1: Basilica of Bom Jesus
    30 minutes (14.4 km) from Dabolim Airport

    In the morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a 400-year-old church that houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, take a stroll through Fontainhas, Goa's Latin Quarter, and marvel at the colorful Portuguese-style houses. In the evening, head to Anjuna Beach to enjoy the sunset and grab some cheap drinks at one of the shacks.

  2. Day 2: Dudhsagar Falls
    2 hours (65 km) from Panaji

    Start your day early and head to the majestic Dudhsagar Falls, which literally means "sea of milk." Take a dip in the cool waters and admire the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit the Salaulim Dam, one of the largest dams in Goa, and enjoy a picnic by the reservoir. End your day on Baga Beach, known for its nightlife and bustling flea market.

  3. Day 3: Old Goa and Mangueshi Temple
    30 minutes (10 km) from Panaji

    Explore the historic city of Old Goa, which was once the capital of Portuguese India. Visit the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, which houses a museum of Christian art. In the afternoon, head to the Mangueshi Temple, one of the most famous Hindu temples in Goa, and witness the Aarti ceremony. End your day with a sunset cruise along the Mandovi River.

  4. Day 4: Spice Plantation Tour and Aguada Fort
    1 hour 30 minutes (35 km) from Margao

    Embark on a guided tour of a spice plantation and learn about the various spices used in Indian cuisine. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch before heading to the Aguada Fort, a 17th-century Portuguese fort overlooking the Arabian Sea. In the evening, visit the vibrant Mapusa Market for some bargain shopping and authentic street food.

  5. Day 5: Vagator Beach and Chapora Fort
    30 minutes (20 km) from Calangute Beach

    Spend your final day in Goa relaxing on Vagator Beach, known for its stunning cliffs and laid-back vibe. Take a short hike to the Chapora Fort, made famous by Bollywood movie "Dil Chahta Hai," and enjoy the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. In the evening, indulge in some seafood at one of the beach shacks and bid adieu to Goa.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary or the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary. You can also take a day trip to the neighboring state of Karnataka to visit the historic city of Hampi. To save money, use the local buses or rent a scooter to get around. Make sure to try the local delicacies, such as fish thali and bebinca.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus (2 hours, free)
  • Fontainhas (2 hours, free)
  • Anjuna Beach (2 hours, INR 500 for two people)
  • Dudhsagar Falls (4-5 hours, INR 1,500 per person)
  • Salaulim Dam (2 hours, free)
  • Baga Beach (2 hours, INR 500 for two people)
  • Old Goa (2 hours, free)
  • Mangueshi Temple (2 hours, free)
  • Sunset Cruise (1.5 hours, INR 600 per person)
  • Spice Plantation Tour (3-4 hours, INR 500 per person)
  • Aguada Fort (2 hours, free)
  • Mapusa Market (2 hours, free)
  • Vagator Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Chapora Fort (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 3,100 per person
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