Highlights
- Discover the age-old caves and temples of Elephanta Island
- Ride a wild banana boat along the white-sand beaches of Goa
- See sleepy alligators lounging in the mangroves of Divar Island
- Shop, eat, and barter at Goa's colorful markets
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Mumbai, Explore | Mumbai |
| Day 2 | Elephanta Caves, Mumbai Sightseeing Tour, Juhu Beach | Mumbai |
| Day 3 | Transfer to Aurangabad, Ellora Caves | Aurangabad |
| Day 4 | Tour Ajanta Caves | Aurangabad |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Goa & Explore | Goa |
| Day 6 | Tour of Goa Landmarks, Old Goa Food Walk | Goa |
| Day 7 | Palolem Beach Day, Sun, Surf & Watersports | Goa |
| Day 8 | Excursion to Divar Island | Goa |
| Day 9 | Free Day in Goa, Shopping & Beaches | Goa |
| Day 10 | Depart Goa |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Mumbai, Explore
Welcome to India! Upon your arrival at Mumbai airport, you'll be met by your driver and transferred to your hotel. The capital city of the state of Maharashtra, Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay), is a true melting pot and is considered to be rich in opportunities for all who come here—hence its nickname, "The City of Dreams." At its core, visitors will find a wealth of history, with colonial buildings, ancient temples, and diverse culture. Once you've had a chance to freshen up and regroup, it's time to start exploring this amazing city!
If the kids need to expend some energy, start with a visit to Kamala Nehru Park, a 4-acre (1.6 ha) recreational area that is part of Mumbai's Hanging Gardens complex. Here, you'll find lots of green space, shaded pathways, and benches for relaxing. Grab a snack from one of the many food vendors, and let the kids play in the Boot House or Old Woman's Shoe, a giant play structure with an indoor space and stairway that goes up to the top.
Day 2: Elephanta Caves, Mumbai Sightseeing Tour, Juhu Beach
Today, visit Elephanta Caves, a large system of cave temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour starts with a one-hour catamaran ride across Mumbai Harbor to the picturesque greenery of Elephanta Island. Walk through the carved caves and temples, which date back to the seventh century, and see the large panels that depict episodes in the life of Lord Shiva. Older kids will appreciate the history and stories behind the caves, and the younger ones can keep an eye out for the curious monkeys that live here. Return to the city in time for lunch.
Later, get better acquainted with Mumbai on a guided tour. Your driver will take you to the city's most notable sites, including the Gateway of India, a large arch that was built to commemorate the landing of the British monarch George V, and Mani Bhavan, a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Cruise along Marine Drive and see the Rajabai Clock Towers as your driver regales the family with stories about these historic places. You'll also pass by Flora Fountain, a gorgeous sculpted monument located in south Mumbai, and Dhobi Ghat, an outdoor laundry where chaos, color, and activity create a lively atmosphere.
Day 3: Transfer to Aurangabad, Ellora Caves
Your next destination is the town of Aurangabad. Your driver will collect you in the morning and transport you to the airport, where you'll catch a quick, one-hour flight to the city. Founded in 1610, Aurangabad is considered one of the most important cities in the state of Maharashtra. It is most known for its historic sites, including the 17th-century Bibi ka Maqbara shrine, the Aurangabad Caves, and the Ellora Caves.
After you check in at your accommodations, start your visit here with a tour of Ellora Caves. Located about an hour from the city, this outstanding archaeological site consists of a series of 34 rock-cut cave temples spread out over 1.25 miles (2 km). See the Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist caves that were excavated out of the vertical face of the cliffs, with some of the caves dating back to 500 CE. Take in the stunning surroundings as you walk through the site, which highlights an unparalleled time of religious harmony in India's history.
After your return this afternoon, you can grab a bite to eat and see more of the city. The kids might like a visit to Siddharth Garden and Zoo, which has a beautifully landscaped garden space perfect for a family picnic, as well as a zoo and aquarium. A visit to Bibi ka Maqbara (Tomb of the Lady) is also not to be missed. This historic shrine was commissioned in the 1600s by the emperor Aurangzeb as a homage to his wife and is styled after the Taj Mahal, almost looking like a replica in miniature!
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Tour Ajanta Caves
Get an early start as you head to Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located approximately three hours from Aurangabad. Cut into the side of a cliff on the Waghur River, the caves are a masterpiece of Buddhist religious art, with paintings and sculptures that date back to 480 CE. A total of 30 caves have been excavated from the site, including Chaityas (places of worship) and Viharas (monk monasteries). Young artists in the family will appreciate the intricate beauty of the carvings and paintings, and the whole family will learn more about the fascinating history of these ancient monuments.
Day 5: Transfer to Goa, Explore
It's off to the beaches of Goa! After you check out from your hotel, take a private transfer to the airport and catch your flight to this tropical beach paradise. The western state of Goa sits on the coastline of the Arabian Sea and has a long history as a Portuguese colony. Despite being India's smallest state, it's a popular destination with family-friendly beaches, 17th-century churches, and gorgeous architecture.
Once you've had a chance to settle at your hotel, the rest of the day is yours. For a relaxing and fun afternoon, take a tour of one of Goa's many famed spice plantations, some of which date back over 200 years. The kids can stretch their legs while walking along lush tropical pathways, and you'll all learn about the spices grown on the plantations and how they are incorporated into Goa's cuisine.
Budding scientists in the family might also enjoy a trip to the Goa Science Centre & Planetarium, part of the National Council of Science Museums and featuring interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and a 3-D theater. And if the beaches alone aren't enticing enough, you can visit Splashdown Waterpark, where you'll find multiple slides, wave pools, and a kiddie pool.
Day 6: Tour of Goa Landmarks, Old Goa Food Walk
Tour the historic streets of Old Goa today. Located in North Goa on the banks of the River Mandovi, the churches and cathedrals in this district have been collectively designated a UNESCO Heritage Site. Start at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses St. Francis Xavier's remains in a casket, before walking on to the towering Baroque Se Cathedral, completed in the mid-17th century. With its vaulted ceiling, 14 gold embossed altars, and dazzling Doric arches, it's considered the most beautiful cathedral in Goa.
Afterward, stroll to Dona Paula, a pier and picnic spot with sweeping views of Miramar Beach, and to Goa's capital, Panjim, with tree-lined avenues, cobbled streets, and colorful buildings that showcase its Portuguese influence. And be sure to take the kids by the Church of the Immaculate Conception, where they can climb a zig-zagging, switchback staircase to some incredible views.
Later, get an introduction to Goa's renowned cuisine with a guided food tour. Meet up with your guide and dive into the street food of Old Goa, sampling regional specialties that include pork vindaloo (pork with potatoes in a spicy sauce), ras omelets (egg served in gravy), and savory samosas (puff pastry stuffed with vegetables or meat). Of course, there will also be plenty of treats to entice the kids, such as Goan coconut cookies called bolinhas, or multi-layered bebinca cakes. During the tour, your guide will also share insight into Goa's fascinating heritage, with stories about various landmarks and their history.
Day 7: Palolem Beach Day, Sun, Surf & Watersports
Head to South Goa's Palolem Beach for some surf and sun. Palolem is one of the most spectacular beaches in Goa, backed by hazy hills and shady palm trees. Take a boat cruise along the coast for views of the shoreline and city, and check out some of the watersports offered here. You can rent Jet Skis or kayaks, take a wild ride on a banana boat, or just grab a beverage and laze in the shade while the kids splash and play along the shoreline's calm and clear waters. There are also several restaurants near the beach, which makes it a great place to grab dinner this evening and watch the sunset.
Day 8: Excursion to Divar Island
This morning, hop a ferry across the Mandovi River estuary to Divar Island. The island was once a popular Hindu pilgrimage site and is home to hidden caves, paddy fields, temple ruins, and old Portuguese villas. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the island, which spans more than 3 miles (5 km), taking you along lush forests, waterways, and picturesque villages. Be sure to climb the hill to the Church of Our Lady of Compassion for views of the countryside, and the kids will love getting a close look—but not too close!—of the saltwater crocodiles that live among the island's mangrove forests.
Day 9: Free Day in Goa, Shopping & Beaches
Make the most of your last full day in India exploring some of Goa's markets, where you'll find fun souvenirs for both adults and kids, unusual clothing and textiles, and of course, Goa's famous street foods. Visit Calangute Market Square, located on Calangute Beach, with leather goods and local handicrafts, or stop in at Mapusa Market for Goan pottery and antiques. End the day at the Arpora Market, an evening event with a wide assortment of sundries and plenty of food stalls.
If the kids are vying for one more beach day, you can spend your afternoon enjoying more of Goa's peaceful waters and white sands. Head to popular Baga, a long stretch of sandy beach lined by food shacks, or Morjim, a known sea turtle nesting ground with fewer amenities and a wilder, more natural feel. Hang out at Sinquerim if you want a quiet, sedate vibe, or hit the busy shores of Calangute for something more lively.
Day 10: Depart Goa
Your India adventure ends today as your driver transfers you from your hotel in Goa to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!
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