After breakfast, we start our full-day South Goa tour with Shree Mangesh Temple, also
called Shri Manguesh Temple, located within Mangeshi Village of Goa. This gorgeous 400-yearold temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who’s worshipped in the form of Lord Mahueshi. Legends says that Lord Shiva who lost everything to Parvati over a game of dice came to Goa and disguised himself as a Tiger. He coincidentally scared Parvati who then asked to be rescued and Lord Shiva transformed back to his original form and followed her back. The name Manguesh came from Parvati who spoke “Mam Grisha” when asking for help.
Goa is known for its serious of churches and convents of Old Goa. You don’t want to miss the famous Basilica of Bom Jesus, a church from the 1600s and the most popular church of Old Goa. It is within the UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains as an iconic landmark in Goa. Bom Jesus means “Good/Baby Jesus” As you enter the Jesuit church, you’ll see what remains some well-preserved remains of baroque architecture brought in by the Portuguese, earning it a place in the Seven Wonders of Portuguese Origin in the World. We’ll also visit Church of Our Lady, which is a Gothic-style church first built in 1541 on a hill that overlooks Panjim. The imposing design is credited to a famed architect of his time, Antoni Gaudi. Initially built as a chapel, it became a Paris in 1600 before a major construction took place in 1609 and turned it into the church we know today. In 18th century, the iconic symmetrical zigzag stairs were added and finally, Goa’s second largest bell tower in 1871. Then we move to where Goa’s largest bell is located, the Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina, a cathedral built to celebrate the Portuguese victory over a Muslim army in 1510 before capturing Old Goa on the day of the feast of Saint Catherine. The construction finished in 1619 since it began in 1562 and houses some of the most historically valuable artworks, paintings, sculptures, and the Chapel of the Cross of Miracles it was said a vision of Christ appeared on the year the construction finished.
If you have been dying to shop in Goa, then you’ll love Panjim Market, the haven of shopping lovers for local products, souvenirs, snacks, and anything you want in Goa. Take home something of Goa from here and maybe along with gifts to share with your loved ones back home.
But if being in the crowd has been draining your energy, you’ll appreciate the quiet surrounding Dona Paul Beach has to offer. Named after a woman of charity in Portuguese India, Dona Paula Amaral Antónia de Souto Maior, the villagers of Dona Paula renamed their village with hers to honor her memory after her contribution to improve the village’s quality of life. Today, people love to visit the beach which is only visited during peak seasons and is considerably sparse of people otherwise. Enjoy the gorgeous view of Mormugao Harbour, a major trading port of India since 1963, as vessels make their way in and out after exporting iron ores that reach 27.33 million tons a year.
Miramar Beach of Goa is another stunning place you don’t want to miss. It used to be called the Gasper Dias Beach and is a hotspot for hangout or take part in watersport activities. Restaurants and bars can also be seen lining up near the beach with a great nightlife aspect as people join the beach party where famous Goan drinks and foods are served.
Spice up your trip with Mandovi River Cruise at an extra cost. For around one hour, you’ll be taken on a ride on luxurious cruise through the Mandovi River and with the sunset as your backdrop. There is live DJ music, traditional dance performances in the Carnival Village before boarding.
Overnight at hotel
