Monthly Archives: August 2025

Optimized Route from Happy Moon Homestay (Approx. 17–40 km)


Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Chorão
Take a scenic mangrove boat safari through Goa’s famous birdwatching sanctuary.
View on Map – 17 km

Offshore Casinos (Deltin Royale, Big Daddy, etc.)
Asia’s largest floating casinos with live games, entertainment & buffet dining—anchored on the Mandovi River.
View on Map – 18.8 km

Bhagwan Parshuram Statue & Yog Setu, Panjim Riverfront
Striking 20-ft sculpture on the Smart City promenade—honouring the mythical founder of Goa.
View on Map – 19.7 km

Mandovi River Cruise (Santa Monica Jetty)
One-hour sunset or dinner cruise with live music, folk dance & city skyline views.
View on Map – 20.9 km

Fontainhas Latin Quarter, Panjim
A charming stroll through narrow lanes with pastel Portuguese villas, cafés & street art.
View on Map – 20 km

Maruti Temple, Altinho
A beautifully illuminated hilltop shrine of Lord Hanuman, overlooking Fontainhas by night.
View on Map – 20.5 km

Miramar Beach
Clean city beach perfect for jogging at sunrise or enjoying chaat at sunset.
View on Map – 23 km

Dona Paula Viewpoint
A romantic jetty where rivers meet the sea—panoramic views, local snacks, and water sports.
View on Map – 26 km

Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa
UNESCO World Heritage church housing the relics of St. Francis Xavier (built 1594–1605).
View on Map – 28.5 km

Sé Cathedral, Old Goa
Asia’s largest church with a Portuguese-Manueline façade & the famous “Golden Bell.”
View on Map – 28.7 km

Ponda Spice Plantations
Guided plantation tours with authentic Goan lunch in a farm setting.
View on Map – 40 km

Optimized Route from Happy Moon Homestay (Approx. 40–93 km)


Shree Mahalasa Narayani Temple, Verna
Vibrant temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalasa (Mohini avatar of Vishnu). Don’t miss the evening arti.
View on Map – 40 km

Birla Mandir (Lakshminarayan Temple), Zuarinagar
Modern marble temple by the Birla family overlooking the Zuari valley—peaceful and scenic.
View on Map – 43 km

Bogmalo Beach
Quiet cove near the airport with calm waves, beach shacks, and a diving school.
View on Map – 45.7 km

Big Foot (Ancestral Goa), Loutolim
Open-air village museum with a giant footprint, feni demo, art installations & cultural vibes.
View on Map – 47 km

Goa Chitra Museum, Benaulim
Ethnographic museum of Goan agrarian life with café & organic farm. Great for culture lovers.
View on Map – 51.2 km

Colva Beach
A lively stretch of white sand with water-sports during the day and beach bars by night.
View on Map – 53 km

Cabo de Rama Fort
Cliff-top 17th-century fort offering dramatic views over the Arabian Sea.
View on Map – 78 km

Butterfly Beach (by boat only)
Hidden gem cove with turquoise water and cliff surroundings; often filled with fluttering butterflies.
View on Map – 86.4 km

Palolem Beach
Crescent bay with calm waters, kayak rentals, dolphin-watching & famous silent discos at night.
View on Map – 87.1 km

‍♀️ Agonda Beach
Quiet, scenic beach and turtle sanctuary (Nov–Feb) perfect for yoga and undisturbed swimming.
View on Map – 87 km

Galgibaga (“Turtle”) Beach
India’s cleanest beach with no shacks—just pure sand, sea, and peace. A rare untouched beauty.
View on Map – 93.1 km

Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
One of India’s tallest waterfalls (310 ft), accessible by forest jeep or train trek. Start early morning!
View on Map – 71 km (inland route)

Optimized Day Route (≈ 18–51 km from Happy Moon Homestay)
A soul-soothing journey through Goa’s most revered temples, rich in history, devotion, and architectural grace.


Saptakoteshwar Temple, Narve
An ancient Kadamba-era Shiva shrine restored by Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1668. Set on a peaceful island.
View on Map – ≈ 18 km

Mahalaxmi Temple, Panaji
Built in 1818, this was the first Hindu temple allowed by the Portuguese in the capital. Kuladevata of many Goan families.
View on Map – ≈ 20 km

Maruti (Hanuman) Temple, Altinho
Bright-orange hilltop shrine overlooking Fontainhas. Beautifully lit at night with panoramic city views.
View on Map – ≈ 20.5 km

Mangueshi Temple, Priol
Goa’s most renowned Shiva temple, featuring a majestic 7-storey deepstambha (lamp-tower). Modest dress required.
View on Map – ≈ 30 km

Mahalsa Narayani Temple, Mardol
Goddess Mahalsa—Mohini form of Vishnu. Don’t miss the oil-lit samai tower at dusk.
View on Map – ≈ 30.5 km

Shantadurga Temple, Kavlem
18th-century temple where Shantadurga is said to mediate between Shiva and Vishnu. Rich red laterite architecture.
Website | View on Map – ≈ 32 km

Mahalaxmi Temple, Bandora
Historic temple of the Kadamba royal family, with a serene palm-fringed courtyard.
View on Map – ≈ 34 km

Nagueshi Temple, Bandora
Swayambhu Shiva linga reflected perfectly in its sacred temple tank. Simple white architecture. Dress-code enforced.
View on Map – ≈ 35 km

Ramnathi Temple, Ramnathim
Panchayatana (5-deity) complex symbolizing Hari-Hara unity. Deep spiritual resonance.
View on Map – ≈ 40 km

⚔️ Kamakshi Temple, Shiroda
Dramatic 16th-century temple to the fierce and compassionate Goddess Kamakshi. Grand entrance gate (mahadwar).
View on Map – ≈ 51 km


Tips for the Temple Circuit:

  • Cover shoulders and knees; avoid shorts/sleeveless tops

  • Remove footwear at temple entrances

  • Many temples close from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

  • Break for vegetarian lunch near Mardol or Ponda

  • Photography inside sanctums is usually not permitted

Optimised Route: ≈ 1–81 km (From Happy Moon Homestay)

Explore Goa’s layered history through its stunning Portuguese-era forts—from jungle outposts and riverside bastions to dramatic cliff-top citadels.


Corjuem Fort, Aldona
A small but scenic star-shaped fort (1705) offering panoramic views of the Mapusa and Corjuem rivers. Perfect for sunrise.
View on Map – 1.2 km

Reis Magos Fort, Bardez
1551 laterite fortress restored into a museum with coastal cannons, art exhibits, and sweeping Mandovi River views.
View on Map – 16 km

Chapora Fort, Vagator
Red-laterite hilltop fort famous for “Dil Chahta Hai” scenes and panoramic sunsets over Vagator Beach.
View on Map – 18.6 km

Fort Aguada & Lighthouse, Sinquerim
Iconic 17th-century fortress overlooking the Arabian Sea, with its white lighthouse and expansive coastal ramparts.
View on Map – 24.3 km

Sinquerim Fort
Lower bastion of Aguada built right into the rocks—waves crash directly into its ancient walls.
View on Map – 24.8 km

Fort Tiracol, Goa–Maharashtra Border
17th-century clifftop stronghold turned into a boutique heritage hotel—ideal for a quieter northern day trip.
View on Map – 49 km

Cabo de Rama Fort, South Goa
Dramatic, rugged laterite citadel with sweeping Arabian Sea views and an old chapel inside.
View on Map – 78 km

Betul Fort, Sal River Estuary
Hidden southern gem guarding the mouth of the Sal River, offering peaceful views opposite Mobor Beach.
View on Map – ≈ 81 km


Suggested Route Tip:

  • Start with Corjuem at sunrise (5-min from the homestay)

  • ️ Proceed south along the coast: Reis Magos → Chapora → Aguada → Sinquerim

  • ️ Break for lunch in Panjim or Candolim

  • Continue to Cabo de Rama & Betul if you have a full-day plan

  • ️ Save Tiracol Fort for a dedicated northern route (great with Arambol)

Optimised Route: ≈ 2 – 30 km | North & Central Goa
Explore Baroque, Gothic, and Indo-Portuguese architecture, vibrant community chapels, and UNESCO-listed cathedrals that shaped Goa’s spiritual identity.

 

️ St. Thomas Church, Aldona
16th-century riverside church with peaceful grounds and panoramic Mapusa River views. Great starting point close to the homestay.
View on Google Maps – 2.7 km

 Sé Cathedral, Old Goa
Asia’s largest cathedral, dedicated to St. Catherine. Known for its imposing Portuguese-Manueline façade and famed Golden Bell.
View on Google Maps – 28.7 km

✨ Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa
UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Intricately carved gilded interiors; a pilgrimage hub.
View on Google Maps – 28.5 km

 Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Old Goa
Next to the Basilica; famous for its richly painted walls, baroque façade and Portuguese inscriptions.
View on Google Maps – 28.4 km

 Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, Old Goa
Hilltop church with stunning views of Old Goa and the Mandovi; peaceful, usually empty—perfect for photography.
View on Google Maps – 29.2 km

 Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Panjim
Dramatic staircase and whitewashed baroque exterior; a postcard-perfect icon of Panjim, lit beautifully at night.
View on Google Maps – 20 km

 Reis Magos Church, Reis Magos
Church of the Three Wise Men, perched above the river with spectacular views; linked to the adjacent Reis Magos Fort.
View on Google Maps – 16.8 km

 Mae de Deus Church, Saligao
Neo-Gothic gem with pointed spires and nighttime illumination; unique among Goan churches for its European styling.
View on Google Maps – 15.4 km

 

 Suggested Itinerary Tip:
Start nearby with St. Thomas, Aldona
Drive to Saligao, Panjim, and then on to Old Goa
Break for lunch in Fontainhas or near Old Goa
Visit Reis Magos or Lady of the Mount for sunset

Grocery Shopping
Pratik Supermarket – Daily essentials, packaged goods, snacks, beverages

Pharmacies Nearby
Option 1 – Pharmacy
Option 2 – Pharmacy

Doctors & Clinics
‍⚕️ Option 1 – Doctor
‍⚕️ Option 2 – Doctor

Fresh Organic Cow Milk
Local Milk Vendor

Vegetable Shopping
Option 1 – Veg Stall
Option 2 – Veg Stall
Option 3 – Veg Stall

Fitness & Gym
Sai Gym & Fitness Center

Street Food Stalls
Area 1 – Street Food Stalls
Area 2 – Street Food Stalls

Popular Goan Restaurants Nearby
Bluemoon Family Restaurant & Bar – Authentic Goan food, family-friendly with drinks
Sai Family Restaurant & Bar – Budget-friendly, home-style Goan meals

(0–15 km loop · Scenic, Peaceful, Cultural)

Serene Local Spots

  • Corjuem Maanas – Tranquil outdoor space for quiet evening reflection
    View on Map

  • Ganapati Visarjan Shed – Peaceful riverside spot to visit any time of day
    View on Map


Historical & Scenic Walks

  • Corjuem Fort – 1705 Portuguese star-fort with river views
    View on Map

  • Corjuem Cable Bridge – Goa’s first cable-stayed bridge; best for sunset walks
    View on Map


Heritage Architecture

  • St. Thomas Church, Aldona – 16th-century riverside church with murals & 400+ years of history
    View on Map


Bridges & Birding

  • Carona–Calvim Bridge – Quiet mangrove-lined bridge perfect for bird-watching or golden-hour walks
    View on Map


Nature & Leisure

  • Mayem Lake – Boating, lakeside cafés & newly added bungee tower
    View on Map


️ Local Markets

  • Mapusa Friday Market – Famous bazaar for spices, Goan pottery, cashew feni, and souvenirs
    View on Map

From Happy Moon Homestay | Optimised Route: ≈ 2 – 65 km | North & South Goa

 3D Parks & Science Theme Parks

⚡ Thunder World – India’s First Science-Based Theme Park
India’s one and only electricity-focused theme park featuring Tesla Coil Shows, static electricity demonstrations, and interactive science experiences. Watch your hair stand on end and experience millions of volts safely!
View on Google Maps – 15 km (Arpora)
⏰ Timings: Daily: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
⚠️ Duration: 2-3 hours recommended for full experience

Ulta Pulta Museum – Upside Down Experience
Unique gravity-defying museum with 7 upside-down themed rooms where everyday objects appear suspended in mid-air. Playful and surreal photo experience.
[View on Google Maps] ⏰ Timings: Daily: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM

 Kayaking & Backwater Adventures

Chapora River Backwater Kayaking
Serene mangrove kayaking through pristine backwaters with expert guides. 45-75 minute experience exploring wildlife, birds, and lush greenery away from crowds.
View on Google Maps – 8 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (tide dependent)

️ Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Mangrove Kayaking
Navigate through dense mangroves spotting endemic and migratory birds while paddling through forest canals during high tide.
View on Google Maps – 25 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM | Season: October to May only

Sal Backwaters Sunset Kayaking
Famous for red and white lotus blooms along waterways. Peaceful cruise through mango groves with opportunities to spot fish, otters, and exotic birds.
View on Google Maps – 52 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Best Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM for sunset

❄️ Snow Parks & Indoor Adventures

Snow Park Goa – Baga’s Winter Wonderland
Goa’s premier indoor snow park featuring real snow at -5°C with ice slides, snow volleyball, climbing walls, DJ dancing, and ice bar with drinks in ice glasses.
View on Google Maps – 17 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (last entry 7:00 PM)
⚠️ Duration: Maximum 45-60 minutes due to extreme cold

 Water Parks & Aquatic Adventures

Froggyland – Goa’s Largest Water Park (35,000 sq.m)
Goa’s premier water park featuring lazy rivers, wave pools, rain dance, mushroom slides, bumper boats, and zorbing. The largest water park in the state with international safety standards.
View on Google Maps – 52 km
⏰ Timings: Tuesday-Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Closed Mondays

Farm 33 Water Park – Goa’s Newest Mega Water Park
Recently opened water park in Sal village featuring extensive water activities, authentic Goan dining, and 19 themed rooms with hand-painted cultural motifs.
View on Google Maps – 65 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

 Adventure Activities with Operating Schedules

Parasailing at Calangute Beach
Soar 300 feet above the Arabian Sea with 3-4 minutes of flying time and professional safety gear.
View on Google Maps – 18 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (weather dependent)

Grand Island Scuba Diving
PADI certified underwater experience up to 20 feet with complimentary GoPro videography.
View on Google Maps – 45 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM | Season: October to May (monsoon closure June-September)

Dudhsagar Waterfall with Jeep Safari
India’s 5th highest waterfall with thrilling jeep safari through Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.
View on Google Maps – 65 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Season: October to May only
⚠️ CLOSED: June 1st to October 2nd (monsoon season) for safety and wildlife protection

Nightlife with Operating Hours

Tito’s Club, Baga
Goa’s most legendary nightclub since 1971 with multiple venues and international DJs.
View on Google Maps – 17 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 6:00 PM – 3:00 AM | Peak Season: 9:00 PM – 3:00 AM

Casino Royale (Deltin Royale)
Asia’s largest floating casino with 1000+ gaming positions operating 24/7.
View on Google Maps – 21 km
⏰ Timings: 24/7 Operation
️ Restaurant Hours: Vegas: 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM (weekdays), 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM (weekends)

️ Saturday Night Market, Arpora
Vibrant night bazaar with hundreds of stalls, live music, and international food courts.
View on Google Maps – 15 km
⏰ Timings: Saturdays Only: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM | Season: November to April
⚠️ Peak Activity: December to February

Dolphin Cruises & Marine Adventures

Coco Beach Dolphin Spotting Cruise
45-60 minute cruise to spot Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins and finless porpoises with sightseeing of Fort Aguada, Lighthouse, and Millionaire’s Palace.
View on Google Maps – 18 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (weather dependent) | Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Panjim River Cruises & Evening Entertainment

Mandovi River Sunset Cruise
1-hour evening cruise with DJ music, traditional Goan dance performances, and sightseeing of Panjim cityscape, Fort Aguada, and Miramar Beach.
View on Google Maps – 21 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Sunset) | 7:15 PM – 8:15 PM (Sundown)

️ Paradise Dinner Cruise
2-hour dinner cruise with live entertainment, DJ music, traditional dance shows, buffet dinner, and panoramic views of illuminated Panjim.
View on Google Maps – 21 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 8:30 PM – 10:30 PM | Peak Season: 8:30 PM – 11:00 PM

Crocodile/Alligator Watching Adventures

Cumbarjua Canal Crocodile Safari
2-hour guided boat tour through mangroves to spot 40-50 Indian Mugger crocodiles in their natural habitat, combined with bird watching at Chorao Island.
View on Google Maps – 35 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Best Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (crocs sunbathing)

John’s Crocodile Dundee Backwater Tour
Expert-guided exploration through Mandovi-Zuari waterways with extensive crocodile knowledge, mangrove ecosystem education, and traditional boat experience.
View on Google Maps – 21 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Duration: 3 hours

Food & Cultural Experiences with Schedules

Anjuna Flea Market
Iconic Wednesday hippie market since the 1960s with handcrafted goods and live music.
View on Google Maps – 12 km
⏰ Timings: Wednesdays Only: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM | Season: October to April only
⚠️ Peak Hours: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Best Bargains: After 6:00 PM
⚠️ CLOSED: May to September (monsoon/off-season)

Sahakari Spice Plantation, Ponda
130-acre organic spice farm with traditional Goan buffet lunch and elephant experiences.
View on Google Maps – 35 km
⏰ Timings: Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Fontainhas Heritage Walk + Food Tour
Explore Goa’s Latin Quarter with Portuguese architecture, followed by authentic Goan cuisine tasting including vindaloo, bebinca, and feni cocktails.
View on Google Maps – 21 km

Beach Shack Experience, Baga
Authentic beachfront dining with fresh seafood, King’s beer, sunset views, and live music. Try the famous fish curry rice and prawn balchão.
View on Google Maps – 17 km

 Suggested Itinerary Tips:

Early Birds (6:00 AM): Start with hot air ballooning or Dudhsagar waterfall trip
Mid-Morning (10:00 AM): Hit Calangute for parasailing and water sports
Afternoon (1:00 PM): Lunch at spice plantation or heritage food tour
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM): Grand Island scuba diving or Anjuna/Arpora markets
Evening (8:00 PM): Beach shacks for sunset, then Tito’s or Casino Royale for nightlife
️ Special Days: Wednesdays for Anjuna Market, Saturdays for Arpora Night Market

⚡ Special Thunder World Experience Tips:

Key Attractions at Thunder World:

  • Tesla Coil Show: Spectacular lightning demonstration with millions of volts

  • Lifting Hair Experience: Static electricity makes your hair stand up naturally

  • Thor’s Hammer & Shield: Wield replica weapons with electrical effects

  • Plasma Chair: Sit on an electrified chair safely

  • Hand Cage: Feel high-voltage thrills in a protective cage

  • Bow & Arrow: Precision games with electrical twists

  • Cage Dance: Live performance inside an electrical cage

Best Photo Opportunities:

  • Hair-raising static electricity moments

  • Thor’s hammer wielding shots

  • Tesla coil lightning background

  • Interactive science demonstrations

‍‍‍ Perfect for: Science enthusiasts, families with curious kids, thrill-seekers, and anyone wanting a unique Indian experience

Optimized Day-Trip Loop (Approx. 15–45 km from Happy Moon Homestay)


Houses of Goa Museum, Salvador-do-Mundo
A ship-shaped building by architect Gerard da Cunha showcasing 500 years of Indo-Portuguese home design, Mario Miranda sketches & heritage artefacts.
View on Map – 14.3 km

Parra Coconut Tree Road (“Dear Zindagi Road”)
Postcard-perfect stretch lined with towering coconut palms; Instagram favorite and featured in Bollywood.
View on Map – 14.5 km

Mae de Deus Church, Saligao
Stunning Neo-Gothic architecture with dramatic spires, beautifully lit at night.
View on Map – 15.4 km

Baga Beach & Tito’s Lane
Goa’s iconic beach party zone with dolphin cruises, nightlife, and beachside bars.
View on Map – 17.6 km

Anjuna Flea Market
Legendary hippie-era market full of handicrafts, food stalls, and live music (Oct–Apr).
View on Map – 18.1 km

Calangute Beach
Known for water sports, beach shacks, and a vibrant energy throughout the day.
View on Map – 18.4 km

Chapora Fort
Scenic fort above Vagator Beach – famous for its sunset views and “Dil Chahta Hai” fame.
View on Map – 18.6 km

Fort Aguada & Lighthouse
Well-preserved 17th-century Portuguese fort with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
View on Map – 24.3 km

Arambol & Mandrem Beaches
Bohemian atmosphere, sunset drum circles, yoga cafes, and peaceful sands.
View on Map – 29 km