Goa Heritage Tours

Soak in the rich heritage of a neighborhood described by historian William Dalrymple as a ‘small chunk of Portugal washed up on the shores of the Indian Ocean’, and interact with locals who strive to keep centuries of culture alive to this day. Discover the untold history of the city of Panjim at Tobacco Square, and hear intriguing tales of the neighborhood's former colonial Portuguese residents. Be transported to a bygone era as we explore painstakingly preserved heritage buildings that have survived the onslaught of development in the 21st century. The quaint streets are lined with traditional Portuguese style homes in a palette of striking bright colors, making this every photographer’s paradise. Visit Panjim’s oldest bakery and have a taste of their traditional Goan treats with a refreshing beverage (subject to the bakery’s operational days & timings). Meet with a renowned local Goan musician and enjoy a live performance of his distinctive blend of Konkani and Latin styles.

The Old Goa Heritage Walk revisits some of the most fascinating facts during Portuguese rule. When Old Goa was Goa’s former capital city, it was a thriving city even during prior to Portuguese times. It was the capital of the Bahmani Sultan Adil Shah empire. The Portuguese arrived here in 1510 under their commander Afonso de Albuquerque, and captured the city from Adil Shah, the ruler of the Bijapur Kingdom. They came to the East in search of trade and to eventually spread Christianity. In our Old Goa Heritage Walk, explore some of the most historically significant buildings. Old Goa is a World Heritage site housing some of most grandest and oldest churches in the region. Special Note: Please note that on certain days, when the Se Cathedral or Basilica of Bom Jesus may be inaccessible due to mass services, we will include a visit to the majestic Our Lady of Rosary Church located on the historic Holy Hill as part of the Old Goa Heritage Walk.

Located in the capital of Goa, Fontainhas is a mesmerizing area to view colourful lanes and houses. We learn how ‘Nova Goa’ developed as the new capital city after the older capital, Old Goa crumbled down with disease. We listen to stories about the most prominent monuments of the area. In addition, we visit a local house and one of the oldest bakeries in the city and try out some local delicacies. Highlights -Walking Trail covering the first Portuguese Settlement in Panjim -Re-discovering defining elements in Sao Tome Locality -Colourful Lanes & Beautiful Architectural elements of Fontainhas -Snacks at a local Goan Bakery Operational from 1920s -Indo-Portuguese House Visit -Local Legends & Stories

Experience the Aguada jail through riveting tales of battles from the Portuguese era to the liberation of Goa from colonial powers. The formidable fortress overlooking the Arabian Sea is located strategically defending the entry points to the Port and was later repurposed by the Portuguese as a jail. Guided tour of Aguada Jail through vivid stories narrated by a knowledgeable Storyteller.Exclusive access to various areas within the fort – including the Kal Kothri (Dark Prison Cells), a beautiful Chapel, jail kitchen, a natural spring and a secret tunnel. Immerse yourself in the vivid narrative of Goa’s liberation movement and its unsung heroes.

Take a break from the beach and learn more about Goa’s history, culture, and architecture on a private tour of Goa . See the Portuguese colonial influence on the local culture at impressive sites including the UNESCO-listed churches and cathedrals Old Goa (Goa Velha). while your guide takes you through hundreds of years of history, with a focus on what Goa was like under Portuguese rule.

Discover Portuguese heritage & cultural in Goa, Enjoy a guided walk into the colourful neighbourhood of "Fontainhas", which stands as a testament to the region’s rich colonial history and cultural heritage. Also discover best preserved colonial era churches like: Basilica of Bom Jesus which houses the mummified body of the patron saint of Goa, St. Francis Xavier. Magnificent "Se Cathedral" & finally experience the panoramic view from Dona Paula jetty. NOTE: Tourists arriving by CRUISE ships CANNOT book this tour, because Sea Port authorities have their own transport setup.

Chandor was one of the oldest known capitals of Goa. Goa was a Portuguese colony for over four centuries during which there was a strong influence of culture, language, tradition and architecture. All over the state, there are beautiful houses which have floor plans and features from what you would observe in Portugal. Highlights -The First Capital of Goa -Story about curse on the Village -visit to Indo Portuguese Houses over 500+ years old -The Footprints of the Queen -Visit to Kadamba Dynasty Temple Ruins and story behind it -River Kushavati Note: This is not a walking trail. Transport is required to get between the points in between the trail. We recommend using the same transport that you come by to get between the points in the trail. SOUL TRAVELLING DOES NOT PROVIDE TRANSPORT.

This heritage walk will bring alive the glorious and eventful past of Panjim. We will trace the morphing of the city from a sleepy little retreat for the elite to become the capital of Goa in 1843 after the outbreak of Plague in Old Goa.

A two & a half hour hour walking tour of what is known as Old Goa. Old Goa is a World Heritage site housing some of the most historically significant buildings and churches in the region. Among these are the Basilica of Bom Jesus where the remains of St. Francis Xavier are to be found, the imposing Sé Cathedral, the Church of St Francis of Assisi, the Chapel of St Catherine, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, the Church of Our Lady of Rosary, the Church of St Cajetan, the Chapel of St Anthony and the ruins of the Tower of St Augustine’s Church.

Explore Panjim the local way! Walk along the Immaculate Conception church, the only pre-colonial palace of Panjim, the largest Latin Quarters of Asia with its picture-perfect lanes and listen to the stories that mark the neighbourhood on world map as UNESCO Heritage zone. Connect to the stories of Fontainhas through its architecture, vibrant lanes, guided not just by a local, but by a ishht (friend) of the neighbourhood. Get to taste traditional wood fired oven-baked Goan sweets at a vintage bakery, dance to the sound of lively Goan music by a local musician. Along the way chat with locals who would gladly welcome to their version of Panjim! Perfect for those who believe travel is about tasting slowly, listening deeply, and engaging meaningfully with the community.

Walk through some of most scenic and planned neighborhoods of Panjim, get amazed by the beautiful clash of old vs new, discover beautiful monuments, ancient indo-portuguese buildings and modern buildings on this walking tour of Campal. See the intricately designed and brightly colored Campal Houses are a treat to gaze at which are marvel at the architectural design and urban planning of the city's establishments. Highlights of the tour will be following 1. See inside of the city, it's charming places with a beautiful view which travelers don't want to miss and capture the beauty of colorful lanes, houses, historical monuments in your lens to cherish life-long from this tour. 2. We follow a unique style of ‘infotainment’ to ensure that you enjoy the tour and don't get bored, irrespective of whether you love history or not. 3. Develop a great perspective of the city, its culture and you will also get some great insider tips and tricks to save money and to explore the best of the city.

Get insights about the history of Goa dating back to the era of empires and dynasties This tour highlights the kaleidoscope of history to be found in the hinterland of South Goa. Immerse yourself in pre-Portuguese history dating back over 1000 years, when Chandor then known as Chandrapur was a buzzing trade center. The experience begins at the Church of Nossa Senhora de Belem in Chandor and then leads into sites and ruins of historical importance that date back over 1000 years, followed by the scenic view of the Kushavati River. We visit two heritage houses that predates the Portuguese era and contains interesting artifacts which highlight Kadamba era. Please note that this is not a walking trail and guests need to have transportation for this trail.

This tour is curated for travelers who love to explore the city on foot. This tour takes you through the quaint streets of Fontainhas in Panjim the capital city of Goa. An exciting and interesting way to learn history ,culture and heritage of the bygone days.

Unlike other areas of Panaji, the Campal heritage area is unique in its nature and characteristics. The street pattern consists of a grid iron pattern and only residential houses fully self sufficient in their needs and demands. Every house is different in its character, accessible with well tarred roads, parking space and compound is housed with ornamental railings carved in stones, and a distinct construction technology used to construct these houses. Basically, a formal layout with a garden (Jardin de Francisco Luis Gomes) facing the river front as focal point. Campal lies along river Mandovi and predominantly a residential area, occupied by higher economic group of population. The area is serene and tranquil away from the main hub of activity.

Experience the glimpse of Portuguese Era, beautiful Indo-portuguese buildings and monuments that riddled with history and heritage of the vintage city. Pass through the Fontainhas Neighborhood and see the inside of the city with some charming places with a beautiful view which we have discovered and travelers don't want to miss in this amazing walking tour of the old town. Highlights of Portuguese influenced Goa is an unmatched heritage experience with awesome stories to understand a city's existence, culture and lifestyle. Capture the beauty of colorful lanes, houses, historical monuments and friendly local people in your lens, capture memories not just only pictures and store them in your memories to cherish life-long from this tour. We follow a unique style of ‘infotainment’ to ensure that you enjoy the tour and don't get bored, irrespective of whether you love history or not, this walking tour will be a unique, fun and memorable experience for you.