From Goa to Gokarna: Ancient Temples and Ayurveda

When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be privately transferred to your accommodation, an intimate hotel perched between Old Goa and the Mandovi River. Your room will be available for you on arrival, so you can relax and refresh before heading out to explore. When you’re ready, you’ll take a private tour of Goa. In the old town, many remnants of the state’s Portuguese occupation have been preserved, in particular its beautiful religious buildings. In the distinctive atmosphere of this seaside town, you can visit the cathedral, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, the UNESCO World Heritage Chapel of St. Catherine, the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, or the Church of Saint Cajetan. You’ll then head to Panjim, around a 30-minute drive from Old Goa, to stroll around the Latin Quarter along charming alleys lined with colonial houses. When you return to your hotel, take a dip in the swimming pool, or enjoy a drink on the patio to unwind before dinner.

Today is all about Goa’s spices and temples. North of Ponda near the village of Priol, you’ll visit the Shri Manguesh temple, perched on top of a green hill. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is a fine example of Hindu architecture. Your day will continue with a visit to another renowned temple, Shri Shantadurga, before moving on to discover a different side to Goa: its spice culture. During a visit to a spice plantation, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and learn more about the process of growing cardamom, vanilla, cinnamon and medicinal plants. Because of Goa’s history as a Portuguese colony, its architecture is an attractive mix of Western and Hindu influences. If you like, we can arrange for you to take a private tour of a Portuguese colonial house and a 17th-century Indo-Portuguese palace to experience their magnificent architecture in greater depth.

Today you’ll be privately transferred to Gokarna, which takes around three-and-a-half hours. You’ll spend the next five nights in the heart of a coconut grove on the shores of the Arabian Sea. This intimate setting is dedicated to wellbeing and tranquillity, so kick off these next five days of relaxation with a personalised Ayurvedic consultation or by lounging in your private garden. For lunch and dinner, enjoy dishes prepared with fresh, local produce.

You have the next four days to spend however you please, whether that means nature walks, regenerative massages or simply cooling off in the pool or sparkling sea. You’ll have access to daily meditation sessions along with Yoga Nidra and Ashtanga Yoga sessions while you’re here, allowing you to reconnect with your body and restore peace to your mind. Enjoy healthy food and enchanting surroundings as you savour these days of ultimate tranquillity.