Photo: Sumit Sourav / UnsplashGoa
Goa, India
Two Goas in one small state: lively beaches and markets in the north, quiet coves in the south, with Portuguese churches and spice farms in between.
- Backpacker / day
- ₹1,800–3,000
- Mid-range / day
- ₹5,800–12,800
- Best time
- November to February
- Ideal length
- 4–6 days
Day by day
5-day itinerary
₹9,000–15,000per person on a backpacker budget (estimate), excluding travel to get there
- 1
Day 1: North Goa beaches
Anjuna and Vagator, and sunset from Chapora Fort.
- 2
Day 2: Markets and Arambol
Anjuna's Wednesday flea market (in season), then Arambol's drum circle at sunset.
- 3
Day 3: Old Goa and Panaji
The Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, then a walk through Fontainhas, Panaji's Latin quarter.
- 4
Day 4: Spice farm and the south
A spice plantation tour near Ponda, then on to Palolem.
- 5
Day 5: South Goa coves
Kayak at Palolem, or head to quieter Agonda or Cola beach.
When to go
- Jan★ Best
- Feb★ Best
- MarGood
- AprGood
- MayGood
- Jun—
- Jul—
- Aug—
- Sep—
- OctGood
- Nov★ Best
- Dec★ Best
November to February.
Money notes
Prices can double over Christmas and New Year, so book early for those dates. Renting a scooter is the cheapest way to explore, but you need a valid licence and a helmet.