About this experience
This tour combines history and faith, gods and demons, colorful streets of Goa's capital, and a gleaming white church. During this journey, you will learn about India's colonial past in the oldest fort of Goa; discover the peculiarities of two rare religions, Jainism and Sikhism; visit revered Hindu temples and get answers to questions about mysterious India.
What to Expect
Ancient Fort and Panaji's Atmosphere
The day will begin at the Reis Magos Fort, a beautiful and even fairy-tale place at the mouth of the Mandovi River. The fortress has been radiating grandeur for 500 years: as you explore it stone by stone, you will trace the fort's path, which has also served as a prison, represent historical battles, and learn about the colonial period of Goa.
Not far from the fort, you will admire the gleaming white Church of the Immaculate Conception on the central square of Panaji, the capital of the Goa state. You will stroll through the cobblestone streets of this city with quaint balconies and tiled roofs, peek into Portuguese quarters, and see modern buildings. Additionally, you will have time for shopping in stores of renowned brands (prices here are lower than in Europe).
To the south of Panaji, we will ascend a hill to the vibrant Hanuman temple, which is rarely visited by tourists. From here, you will have a great panorama of the city!
Sacred Places of Goa
Throughout the day, you will touch upon the traditions of three out of the five religious currents of Goa.
- In a small Jain temple, you will learn about the peculiarities of Jainism—an ancient religion whose followers are forbidden to harm any living being.
- At the Sikh Gurudwara with white walls and golden domes, we will talk about the duties of Sikhs, warriors and defenders, as well as about charity, as an absolute virtue of Sikhism.
- Of course, you will visit the most majestic and revered Hindu shrines in Goa. In the Shri Shantadurga Temple, you will realize how the divine and the historical interweave, admire the marble details and delicate carvings in the interior. The Shri Mahalakshmi Temple will be remembered for its collection of 18 wooden sculptures of the god Vishnu and the legend of his transformation.
Organizational Details
- Included in the price:
— transport with air conditioning
— insurance
— entrance tickets - Lunch is paid separately (at a restaurant of your choice in Panaji).
- Transfers: the price includes transfer from/to hotels on the beaches of Candolim, Calangute, Baga, Arpora, Anjuna, and Vagator. If you are staying in other locations, the transfer is paid separately:
— for Arambol beach ($5 per person)
— for South Goa beaches ($15-20 per person)
— for Palolem and Agonda beaches ($80 for a round trip by car) - The duration of the excursion is from 9 to 10 hours (depending on the location of your hotel).
- The tour will be conducted by one of our team's guides.
