Old Goa : Saga of Saints, Spices and Sovereigns
Location:
Santa Monica Nunnery, Old Goa- North Goa
Duration:
2 hours
Frequency:
Everyday
Select date and travellers
Overview
Wander through grand cathedrals and crumbling convents. This is the unfolding Saga of Saints, Spices and Sovereigns tour. Local storytellers trace the footsteps of pilgrims, traders, and kings. Visit hidden nooks like the Rosary Church. Explore the ruins of the Augustinian monastery and Asia's oldest nunnery. A key highlight is the revered Basilica of Bom Jesus church in Old Goa. On this Old Goa heritage walk, learn how spices, ships, and salvation shaped a cosmopolitan city. You will explore with medieval maps. Hear stories from local voices deeply connected to this land. This journey reveals a destiny forged in faith and trade.
Highlights
Explore iconic sites like Se Cathedral and the Basilica of Bom Jesus | Discover hidden monastic ruins beyond the usual tourist trail | Admire unique Indo-Portuguese craftsmanship and sacred art | Walk through history, from ancient spice trades to missionary tales | Learn the hidden meanings behind architectural styles and elements | Engage with local storytellers and their personal heritage insights | Support community-based preservation and cultural revival | Enjoy a thoughtfully paced walk for a deep cultural connection | Conclude with a refreshing local drink
Itineraries
• Meet & Introduction
o Gather at a central point in Old Goa.
o Brief introduction to the day and the theme of saints, spices, and sovereigns.
• The Grand Cathedrals
o Visit the magnificent Se Cathedral.
o Explore the revered Basilica of Bom Jesus.
o Admire the sacred art and Indo-Portuguese architecture.
• Hidden Histories & Monastic Ruins
o Walk to the secluded Rosary Church.
o Discover the sprawling ruins of the St. Augustine complex.
o Hear forgotten stories of monastic life.
• Lived Heritage & Local Voices
o Interact with a local community storyteller.
o Gain personal insights into Goa's past and present.
o Learn about ongoing preservation efforts.
• Asia's Oldest Nunnery & Final Tales
o View the site of Asia's first nunnery, the Convent of St. Cajetan.
o Recap how trade, faith, and power shaped Old Goa.
• Conclusion & Refreshment
o Enjoy a refreshing local drink.
o The tour concludes at the final stop.
Cancellation Policy
Free Cancellation : Cancel 48 hrs+ for a full refund (minus 3% fee) | No Refund : No refunds within 48 hrs or for no-shows | Processing Fee : 3% fee applies to all cancellationsDescription
Duration of tour : 2 hrs (120 mins)
Tour Timings : Everyday (3 Time slots available – 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 03:00 PM – 05:00 PM)
Mode of Transport : By personal vehicle/ hired taxi to the starting point of the tour
Included Excluded
✅Tour led by a knowledgeable guide
✅Visits to hidden ruins, iconic churches
✅Refreshing drink at the end of the tour
❌Hotel pickups and drops
❌Sightseeing points that fall outside of the curated route
❌Any other services not mentioned in inclusions
Important Information
📌Essentials
• Best time: Throughout the year (weather permitting)
• Specific meeting point details will be shared 24 hours before your tour
• Modest dress is required for church entry; avoid shorts and sleeveless tops
• Photography is prohibited in some churches; you will be notified where
• Please arrive on time to ensure a smooth start for the group.
• Walk with purpose and explore with care.
🎒Pack
• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking
• Carry cap, wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a small towel
• Carry 2 ltrs drinking water in a reusable water bottle
• Carry your own umbrella/raincoat (during monsoons)
• Snacks, light lunch, or fruits
• Digital camera/ phone
⚠️Safety
• Pay attention to tour leader at all times
❌Avoid If
• Pregnant/ have serious medical issues
• Not for very young children
• Elderly or have mobility issues
• Under influence of alcohol/ drugs