Goa is a tiny part of India on the west coast. This small state is one of India's most popular attractions -- a land of more than 26 wonderful beaches, natural springs known for their medicinal powers, green hills, a huge collection of historic temples and churches, lush fields of vegetables and grains, plus kind hearted and very hospitable people with a rich cultural milieu.
This morning we include a sightseeing tour of Panjim. a former fishing village made the capital of Goa by a decree from Lisbon. The Goan capital has a different feel from any other Indian city. Stacked around the side of lush terraced hillsides at the mouth of the Mandovi River, its skyline of sloping red-tiled roofs, whitewashed churches and concrete apartment blocks, the essence of the city, purely based on Portuguese architectural style, is distinctively seen all around. It is spread around Altinho, a residential area with Portuguese style bungalows. The dominant structure is the Patriarch's Palace with the statue of Christ the King on its lawns. The Idalcao (Adil Shah's palace), built in 1490, is the oldest monument in Panjim. The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conceptions offers the best views of the city.
Driving through the historic neighbourhood of Fontainhas, known as the Latin Quarter, past old, colourful villas. We will pause at the small St Sebastian Chapel to view several statues of historical figures including the Roman Catholic monk Abade Faria.
Our tour also takes us to Old Goa, the heartland of Asian Christianity, once a bustling metropolis but is now in ruins. Old Goa, called “Rome of the East,” bounds in churches and chapels, some dating back to the 16th century. The profusion and architectural excellence of churches include superb examples of late renaissance, early baroque, Manueline and Gothic. Visit some of the most popular and the best-known churches and cathedrals in Old Goa.
At some point in our day, we’ll enjoy lunch at Sahakari Spice Farm, an award -inning spice plantation set amidst lush green surroundings. A guide takes us around the farm, explaining the usefulness of the spices, tropical fruits, herbs and roots grown here, such as cashew, Areca nut (betel nut), and tropical fruit like star fruit, jackfruit, custard apple, banana, papaya and pineapple. After the tour, we are served an exquisite Goan lunch in traditional style.
Balance of the day at leisure to enjoy this laid-back town.
Overnight in Goa.
 
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner