Private Cultural Tour: Ancestral Goa, Shantadurga Temple and Spice Village Including Lunch

Meet your driver at your Goa hotel in the morning and travel south to Ancestral Goa. Commonly referred to by locals as Big Foot Museum, this cultural center in the village of Loutolim is designed to preserve the culture and traditions of the region and pays homage to Portuguese influences.

Tour the village with your expert guide and gain insight into age-old traditions like bringing feni—a local moonshine made from cashews or coconut. Check out the 250-year-old Portuguese mansion called Casa Araujo and explore its lavish rooms, which include a dining hall and chapel. An impressive doorway leads to a towering staircase that makes this historic structure truly stunning.

From there, head to Shantadurga Temple. This impressive complex was built in 1738 AD and is surrounded by brilliant green foliage. Your guide explains more about the Indo-Portuguese architecture when you venture inside. Brilliant stained-glass windows and a golden palanquin known as a palkhi decorate this religious center.

Next, head to the 400-year-old Mangueshi Temple. Built to honor the goddess Shiva, the temple and its iconic pillars play an essential role in the community.

Finally, drive in air-conditioned comfort to a nearby spice village where you are greeted by a biologist who explains the vegetation that lives on the plantation. Learn about medicinal purposes for herbs and sample cuisine that uses these flavorful spices during a full buffet lunch of authentic Indian fare. 

At the conclusion of your private cultural tour, head back to your hotel in Goa for the evening.