Itinerary 1
Day 01
On reaching Goa, we will directly proceed to the hotel. You can first check-in and then enjoy the delicious Goan breakfast. After that we will go to Old Goa, a historical city which was constructed by the Bijapur Sultanate in the 15th century. It served as capital of Portuguese India from 16th century until its abandonment in the 18th century.Today it has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. First we will visit the Se Cathedral of Santa Catarina built in 1619 to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese under Afonso de Albuquerque over a Muslim army commissioned by Governor George Cabral. Next we will head to Basilica of Bom Jesus. This UNESCO World Heritage Monument was constructed in the year 1605. It has the body of St. Francis Xavier, a very close friend of St. Ignatius Loyola with whom he founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). Francis Xavier died on the Sancian Island while en route to Continental China. This is one of the oldest churches in Goa and is carpeted with marble flooring and inlaid with precious stones. Apart from the elaborate gilded altars, the interior of the church is simple. The church also holds paintings with scenes taken from the life of St. Francis Xavier.
After the churches we will head to the beaches. We will first visit the Anjuna Beach, perhaps the most famous beach in India known throughout the world for its Flea Market on Wednesdays, where one can find everything ranging from Indian Souvenirs to Trance Music. Here you can swim or tan your body or grab a drink and relax at one of numerous shack lined up on the beach. In evening you can return back to your hotel and have a great relaxing sleep.
Day 02
We will start the second day with a trip to Fort Aguada, constructed in 1612 to guard against the Dutch and the Marathas. It was a reference point for the vessels coming from Europe at that time. This old Portuguese fort stands on the beach south of Candolim, at the shore of the Mandovi River. Fort Aguada was the most prized and crucial fort for the Portuguese. The fort is so large that it envelops the entire peninsula at the south western tip of Bardez. Today the fort houses the Central Aguada Jail, where many of the foreign tourists convicted for crimes in Goa are kept.
After Aguada we head towards Calangute & Baga beaches. These beaches are very popular with the domestic as well as the international tourists. Calangute & Baga are the hub for water sports in Goa. Indulge in some adrenaline pumping activities here. For sunset we go aboard Santa Monica, a cruise down the River Mandovi to the mouth of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy the spectacular sunset view from your cruise and also witness some of the best folk dancers showcasing their skills. This brings an end to another enthralling day in Goa.
Day 03
In the morning we will first visit one of most famous temples of Goa - Shri Naguesh Temple. The Naguesh Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, an incarnation of Lord Naguesh is one of the most ancient temples of Goa. It is located in Bandora which is 4 kms east of Ponda. It was established even before Alfonso de Albuquerque arrived in Goa. In the afternoon you can flock the streets of Panjim and indulge in fun shopping. You can also try some exotic Goan dishes on your leisurely street walk. Finally it will be time for you to bid adieu to Goa and treasure the beautiful memories of this awesome place.
Note: We will provide 3 star category accommodation, buffet breakfast and dinner at Goa. The package price does not include airfares.