Full-Day Goa Shore Excursion with Lunch at a Spice Plantation

to the village of Mangueshi that is 20 miles away from Mormugao. Situated in the village is the largest and the most beautiful temple of Goa. The original temple dates back to the 16th century and the present building has been renovated several times since. The temple is dedicated to God Shiva. The seven story decorative lamp tower that stands at the entrance to the temple is the most striking piece of architecture of this temple complex.  Next visit the 18th century Shanta Durga temple. The temple stands at the foot of lush green mountains and has a unique architectural style. Unlike most Hindu temples, this has a pyramidal shape. The stained glass panes of the roman arched windows are also unique.

After the visit to the temple, drive over to a spice plantation and enjoy a Goan lunch (beverage excluded). After lunch spend some time exploring the plantation and the butterfly garden there. There are over 75 species of birds that can also be seen here.

Your next stop will be the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was completed in 1605 and is one of the best pieces of baroque architecture in India. The Basilica contains the mortal remains of Saint Francis Xavier, who brought Christianity to Goa. Also situated in Old Goa is the magnificent 16th century Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia. The building is Portuguese-Gothic in style with a Tuscan exterior and a Corinthian interior.

The last stop on the itinerary is the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Built in 1661, the architecture of the church is a mixture of Tuscan, Baroque and Corinthian styles. The walls are covered with paintings of events in the life of St. Francis. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped back at Mormugao Port or your hotel.