7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Goa in August 2023

1. Day 1: Explore Old Goa
   30 minutes (11.3 km) from Goa International Airport

   Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage sites like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral. Head to the Museum of Christian Art to learn about the history of Christianity in Goa. In the afternoon, enjoy a walk through the Fontainhas neighborhood with its colorful Portuguese-style houses. End your day with a sunset view at Miramar Beach.

2. Day 2: Visit the Beaches in North Goa
   30 minutes (14.4 km) from Fontainhas

   Start your day at the famous Baga Beach, enjoy some water sports and then head to Calangute Beach, the largest beach in North Goa. In the afternoon, relax at Anjuna Beach, known for its stunning sunsets and lively night markets.

3. Day 3: Explore the Lesser-known Beaches in South Goa
   1 hour 30 mins (50.5 km) from Anjuna Beach

   Start your day by driving down to Palolem Beach, the southernmost beach in Goa. Take a boat ride to see the dolphins and enjoy some fresh seafood. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Agonda Beach and then head to Butterfly Beach, accessible only by boat.

4. Day 4: Visit Spice Plantations and Waterfalls
   1 hour (34.5 km) from Butterfly Beach

   Take a tour of a spice plantation to see and learn about the different spices grown in Goa. In the afternoon, visit the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Take a dip in the refreshing waters and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

5. Day 5: Trek to Forts and Temples
   1 hour 30 mins (56.8 km) from Dudhsagar Waterfalls

   Start your day by hiking to Fort Aguada, built by the Portuguese in the 17th century to protect against Dutch and Maratha invasions. In the afternoon, visit the Shri Manguesh Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Shree Mahalsa Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

6. Day 6: Visit the Churches and Museums in Panjim
   40 minutes (18.1 km) from Shri Manguesh Temple

   Visit the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, one of the oldest churches in Goa and the Church of St Francis of Assisi, known for its intricate carvings. In the afternoon, visit the Goa State Museum to learn about the state's rich history and culture.

7. Day 7: Relax at the Beaches in South Goa
   30 minutes (14.6 km) from Goa State Museum

   Spend your last day in Goa by relaxing at the beaches in South Goa. Start at Colva Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. In the afternoon, head to the secluded Majorda Beach, known for its quiet and pristine surroundings. End your day with fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the night markets in North Goa like the Saturday Night Market in Arpora and the Mackie's Night Bazaar in Baga. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Dudhsagar Falls or the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. To maximize your fun, rent a scooter or a bike to explore Goa at your own pace.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Basilica of Bom Jesus (1.5 hours, free)
• Museum of Christian Art (1 hour, INR 100)
• Water Sports at Baga Beach (2 hours, INR 500)
• Boat Ride at Palolem Beach (1 hour, INR 300)
• Tour of Spice Plantation (2 hours, INR 400)
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls (3 hours, INR 300)
• Fort Aguada (2 hours, free)
• Goa State Museum (2 hours, INR 50)
• Fresh Seafood at a Beachside Restaurant (1 hour, INR 500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2200