Enjoy a private visit to Goa, renowned for its beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture. Visit beautiful temples and churches, a lush spice farm, and learn about the history of the region. Explore Old Goa, once the administrative capital of the Portuguese Empire to the east, on this full-day private/ group tour. The Old Goa Day Tour of 8 hours includes tour of the Spice Farm Sahakar, Se Cathedral, Shree Mahalsa and much more.
With your pick up from your hotel of stay, Old Goa Day Tour will commence. Our day will start with a visit to Shree Mangesh Temple. This famous temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located on a hill surrounded by verdant hills. Although small, it has an air of distinctive elegance. Its high white tower at the entrance is a landmark of the countryside.
From here, proceed to visit the Shree Mahalsa Temple, just a short distance away. This temple is a place of worship of one of the manifestations of the god Vishnu. Then we will visit the Spice Farm Sahakari, found in a beautiful green setting.
Then we will continue to the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Built in the 16th century, this magnificent building is the most popular and famous of all the churches in Goa. The mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, kept in a silver box, are buried here. The coffin was forged by Goa goldsmiths in 1636-1637. Dedicated to the Infant Jesus, this church is now a World Heritage monument.
From there, we head towards the Se Cathedral. The most imposing of all the churches of Old Goa, its vaulted interior overwhelms the visitors by its sheer grandeur. This cathedral has five bells, among which the famous golden bell is the largest in Goa and one of the best in the world. This church is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria.
Finally, we will visit the church of St. Francis of Assisi. The entrance and the choir were built in the Manueline style, the only fragment of its kind in the East. First built in 1517, it was later rebuilt twice, in 1521 and in 1661. The interior is illustrated by exquisite paintings and the floor has a large number of headstones with coats of arms. The adjacent convent now houses the archaeological museum. Discover this and more of the remarkable history, architecture and culture of Goa when you come along!