Budget Travel Diary: A Weekend Getaway to Goa Under Rs 5000!

After numerous failed attempts to plan a getaway to Goa, my friends and I spontaneously decided to embark on a budget-friendly trip from Mumbai. This marked the first time I abandoned previously made plans with three different friends for a weekend escapade. Goa became the impromptu choice, and on the second day, I found myself packing my bags for this unplanned adventure. With a mere budget of Rs 5000, we set out on a two-day journey to explore the vibrant beaches and historic sites of Goa.

Day 1: Mumbai to Calangute on a Budget

Our journey began with a budget-friendly 3rd sleeper train from Mumbai to Goa, costing us Rs 1000 per person. We arrived at Thivim railway station, close to Calangute and Baga beach. Opting for a public bus over expensive cab services, we reached Calangute from Thivim Railway station for just Rs 50 per person.

Accommodation:

Choosing wisely, we booked a cost-effective room near Calangute Beach in Goa for Rs 500 per person, which proved to be both comfortable and affordable.

Day 1 Activities:

Upon freshening up, we explored Candolim Beach, Calangute Beach, and Baga Beach on foot, as they conveniently lined up in a straight direction. The evening was spent at Baga Market, where we indulged in a delightful fish fry dish for Rs 200, followed by a relaxed evening at our hotel with beer from a nearby wine shop.

Day 2: Old Goa on a Shoestring

The next day, our plans led us to Old Goa. After checking out, we opted for a budget-friendly Rs 40 per person bus ride to Panjim Bus Station, instead of a Rs 2000 taxi. To explore the city, we initially rented bikes, but a traffic violation set us back by Rs 1000, prompting us to return the bikes. Leaving the bikes behind, we stowed our bags at the Panjim bus station for Rs 50 each, making it easier to roam freely.

Day 2 Activities:

With bags safely stored, we enjoyed a Rs 160 per plate lunch at the station canteen. We visited two iconic sites near Panjim Bus Station, Immaculate Conception Church and Fontainhas, on foot, marveling at the Instagrammable beauty of Fontainhas. Later, we took a Rs 40 per person bus ride to Old Goa, where we visited Se Cathedral, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Basilica of Bom Jesus, and St. Augustine Tower, satisfying my love for art and history.  

Being an art and history enthusiast, Old Goa became the highlight of our trip. After sightseeing and shopping for dry fruits, we booked an Rs 850 return bus to Mumbai from Panjim Bus Station in the evening. The 15-hour bus journey, while uncomfortable, marked the end of our budget-friendly escapade to Goa.

Transport within Goa:

Skipping expensive cab services and rental bikes, we opted for public bus services to roam within Goa, saving us a significant amount. Although hiring bikes seemed like a good idea for exploring, a run-in with a traffic constable cost us Rs 1000. Lesson learned: stick to public transportation in unfamiliar cities.

Conclusion:

Our budget trip to Goa, filled with beach walks, historical explorations, and budget-friendly choices, proved that even with a limited budget, one can savor the beauty of this popular destination. This whirlwind adventure serves as a testament to the idea that one can experience the essence of a destination without breaking the bank.