Fontainhas Heritage Walk: Explore Centuries of Portuguese Culture in India's Colorful Neighborhood

Immerse yourself in the centuries-old Portuguese culture of Fontainhas, a vibrant neighborhood in India. Discover historic sites, colorful architecture, and traditional treats on this heritage walk.

Duration: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Fontainhas - Fontainhas is not only the oldest but the largest Latin quarter of Asia. Located at the foot of the hills, Altinho hills with springs surround Fontainhas on the west side, which give it its name from Portuguese for “little fountain”. Witness the Portuguese past that eventually survived the onslaught of development in the 21st century. The houses are dressed in yellow, green and blue, balconies fronted by wrought iron railings and tiled roofs transporting you to another era.
What's Included
  • Music Performance by a renowned Goan Musician
  • Tasting of Traditional Goan Sweets
  • All fees and/or taxes included
  • Complimentary carbonated beverages
  • Access to exclusive Heritage Buildings
What's Not Included
  • Private transportation
Additional Information

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of a neighborhood that historian William Dalrymple described as a ‘small chunk of Portugal washed up on the shores of the Indian Ocean’. Engage with locals who are dedicated to preserving centuries-old culture to this day.

Uncover the hidden history of Panjim at Tobacco Square, and listen to fascinating stories about the neighborhood’s former Portuguese colonial inhabitants.

Step back in time as we explore meticulously preserved heritage buildings that have withstood the pressures of 21st-century development.

The charming streets are adorned with traditional Portuguese-style homes in a vibrant array of colors, making it a photographer’s dream.

Stop by Panjim’s oldest bakery to savor traditional Goan treats paired with a refreshing beverage (subject to the bakery’s operational days and hours).

Meet a celebrated local Goan musician and enjoy a live performance featuring his unique blend of Konkani and Latin musical styles.

Location
Panjim Post Office
Out Tour Presenter will be waiting at the entrance of the Post Office.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(2136 Ratings)
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Purnendu
Sep 1, 2024
A great experience of Fountainhas - The walk gave us a beautiful inside into the history and life in Fountainhas. Our guide Valencia is very friendly, insightful and a great storyteller. We were quick to plan another walk with them.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Anjankd
Sep 1, 2024
Simply unforgettable. - Enchanting tales and anecdotes on Goan history down the memory lane. The unique Goan hospitability embraces all their visitors with open arms and gives a mesmerizing experience of natural bounty along with an amazing music, wining and dining options. Love you Goa !
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ajith_n
Sep 1, 2024
Excellent experience ! - Outstanding walking tour that you must undertake if you wanted to get know some Goan history and get away from the usual tourist traps. It was a small group of friendly folks and our guide Hinaz was excellent, with her subject knowledge. She showed great patience with us and was more than willing to answer our questions. She paced it pretty well without needlessly rushing through despite the sporadic showers. The final stop was at the home of the famous musician Chico who at that age was gracious enough to belt out a few numbers for the group. Overall a must if you are around in the Panjim area.
Review provided by Viator
Pratibhajadeja
Aug 31, 2024
Enjoyable and memorable walk at Fountainhas - My husband and I went for the Fountainhas walk to explore the area and understand the history of the UNESCO world heritage site. Alilia was our host/storyteller and her personal interest and passion for Goan architecture could be felt. We enjoyed every minute and learnt a great deal. The Goan sweets, Kokum and the visit to the art gallery were added perks. The other members in the group were nice too and overall we had a memorable experience that we would highly recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Quest45476636905
Aug 29, 2024
family - ently stayed at The Grand Palace Hotel and had a fantastic experience. The hotel offers luxurious rooms with elegant decor and modern amenities. The staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive, making sure all my needs were met promptly. The on-site restaurant served delicious meals with a variety of options, and the complimentary breakfast was a great start to each day. The hotel's location is ideal, close to major attractions and public transport. Overall, The Grand Palace Hotel provided exceptional service and comfort, making it a perfect choice for both business and leisure travelers. Highly recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tour25068614798
Aug 28, 2024
Experience of a lifetime - Thank you so much to the entire team of Make it Happen for giving us the experience of a lifetime... The walk was so well curated and gave us an insight to the rich Goan - Portuguese culture... The confectionery session and the live music was the cherry to the cake... Great efforts by the entire team which we could witness through Mrs Vimala, our warm and welcoming storyteller.. Their multiple wals sessions are Highly recommended to every traveller in Goa ....
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dream68214207947
Aug 26, 2024
Amazing tour by Hinaz! - Hinaz made the walking tour very enjoyable with stories and a lot of history that would have been lost to me otherwise. Highly recommend it!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Raghavc74
Aug 26, 2024
Celebrating Heritage and Culture: A Memorable Walk Through Fontainhas, Goa - The walk was expertly curated by Make It Happen, and our guide Hinaz did a fantastic job! She was an engaging storyteller, resourceful, and thoughtful throughout the walk. My wife and I participated in the heritage walk on our anniversary, and Hinaz graciously organized a special song by renowned Goan singer Chico Fonseca as a dedication. It truly made our day! The experience included Goan sweet delicacies, Kokum juice at a heritage building, music, great company, and captivating stories that brought the art, culture, and heritage of Fontainhas, Goa, to life!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mayankdsharma03
Aug 25, 2024
Beautiful Fontainhas! - We had a wonderful time at the Fontainhas heritage walk. Hinaz is a wonderful tour guide who was able to transport us back in time with her detailed description about the various spots we visited. Her depth of knowledge about everything Goan was incredible. The sweets and the music by Mr Chico Fonseca were the icing on the cake. A highly recommended tour for anyone interested in a slice of Goan history and heritage.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Navigator01909234094
Aug 25, 2024
A Memorable Journey Through Fontainhas: History, Culture, and Music - We had a fantastic time at the Fontainhas Heritage Walk! Though the weather tried to play spoilsport with heavy rain in the morning, we still managed to enjoy a delightful and memorable walk. A special shoutout to Hinaz, our storyteller and a local resident of Fontainhas, who shared fascinating anecdotes and offered insights I hadn’t known, even as a Goan. To top it off, we were serenaded by the talented Chico, who graced us with beautiful songs in Portuguese, Spanish, and Konkani. It was truly a morning well spent, and I highly recommend this walk to everyone!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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