Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Panaji, Goa!

Fontainhas

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Fontainhas, Goa

Experience the vibrant hues and historical charm of Fontainhas, Goa"s Latin Quarter, with our accessible and engaging tour designed specifically for visitors on wheelchairs and mobile scooters.

Getting There

Fontainhas is easily accessible from central Panaji. The best way to get there is by hired taxi, which can accommodate wheelchairs and scooters. Ask the driver to drop you off at the General Post Office, a central location that’s convenient for beginning your tour.

Start Your Tour at the General Post Office

Kick off your exploration at this iconic colonial building. There’s a ramp available, allowing easy access to admire the architecture from inside.

Stroll through Fontainhas’ Colorful Streets

Proceed to the heart of Fontainhas. The narrow but navigable streets are lined with traditional Portuguese houses, painted in a palette of pastel colors. The area is relatively flat, making it feasible for wheelchairs and scooters. Notably, the streets are cobbled, so be prepared for a slightly bumpy ride.

Visit the Gitanjali Gallery

Continue to the Gitanjali Gallery, which is accessible and offers a platform lift. Here, you can enjoy contemporary art housed in a vintage Portuguese building. The gallery features works from both Indian and international artists and is an ideal spot for art enthusiasts.

Refresh at the Verandah Restaurant

Time for a break at the Verandah Restaurant, located in the Panjim Inn. The restaurant offers a wheelchair-friendly entrance and an accessible restroom. Indulge in some Indo-Portuguese fusion cuisine while enjoying the view of Fontainhas’ vibrant streets.

Conclude at the Chapel of St. Sebastian

End your tour at this 19th-century white-washed church, known for its striking crucifix which originally depicted Christ with open eyes. The chapel is accessible, featuring smooth entry for visitors on wheelchairs.

Interesting Fact

Fontainhas remains one of the best-preserved Latin Quarters in Asia, with its heritage influenced strongly by the Portuguese who lived here during the colonial era.

Enjoy your accessible adventure through the quaint and picturesque streets of Fontainhas, soaking in the area’s rich heritage and lively atmosphere.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Dudhsagar Falls

Why Visit?

Discover Dudhsagar Falls: An Accessible Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating journey to one of India"s tallest waterfalls, Dudhsagar Falls, renowned for its majestic four-tiered cascade. This wheelchair-friendly tour promises captivating views and unforgettable experiences, tailored for everyone.

Getting There

Start your adventure from Goa, as it’s the most accessible route for those using wheelchairs or scooters. The ideal base would be the town of Madgaon, well-connected by road and rail. From here, specially arranged accessible vehicles can take you to the Collem village, the main gateway to the falls. The drive is scenic and smooth, ensuring comfort throughout.

At Collem

Upon reaching Collem, transfer to the specially designed jeeps equipped with ramps and secure spaces for wheelchairs. These vehicles are approved by the forest department and ensure a safe, 45-minute journey through Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot. Keep your eyes peeled for fleeting glimpses of local wildlife, including exotic birds and maybe even a shy monkey or two!

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

The climax of your tour, Dudhsagar Falls, stands at an impressive 310 meters. The viewing area is well-paved and flat, offering spectacular views of the water cascading down in full force, particularly mesmerizing during the monsoon season. The sound of the falls, coupled with the lush greenery, makes for a therapeutic backdrop.

Interesting Fact

Dudhsagar translates to ‘Sea of Milk’. Legend has it that a beautiful princess used to bathe at the top of the falls, and to protect her modesty from prying eyes, she poured a jug of milk, which then cascaded down, giving the falls their milky white appearance.

After soaking in the sights and sounds, conclude your tour with a serene picnic at the nearby accessible areas, specially maintained for visitors on wheelchairs, before heading back to Madgaon.

Discover Dudhsagar Falls not just as a place, but as an experience, tailored to be inclusive and exhilarating for all.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Old Goa (Goa Velha)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Old Goa (Goa Velha)

Morning Exploration: Basilica of Bom Jesus

Start your journey into the heart of Portuguese legacy in India with a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for housing the relics of St. Francis Xavier, offers ramp access for a smooth entry to experience its awe-inspiring baroque architecture. Arrive early to enjoy the serene ambiance. You can hire a wheelchair-accessible taxi or opt for specially equipped buses from Panaji, which is approximately 10 km away.

Midday Marvel: Sé Cathedral

Just a short roll away is the Sé Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. The cathedral"s majestic towers and exquisite Iberian façade are accessible via flat surfaces making it easy to navigate. Inside, you"re greeted by a vast nave and striking altars, all viewable from designated wheelchair spots.

Lunch Break: Garden Café

For lunch, head to the nearby Garden Café. This charming spot offers accessible dining options with a splendid view of the surrounding relics and lush gardens, providing a perfect mix of taste and tranquility.

Afternoon Delight: Archaeological Museum

Post-lunch, make your way to the Archaeological Museum, housed in the former convent of St. Francis of Assisi. The museum features a ramp entrance and spacious corridors to accommodate mobility scooters and wheelchairs. Delve into Goa’s rich history with artifacts that trace back to the medieval period, displayed in an accessible layout.

Evening Stroll: Viceroy"s Arch

Conclude your tour with a visit to the Viceroy"s Arch, another heritage site that"s easily accessible. The arch offers a picturesque view of the river and is a great spot for some memorable pictures.

Each site in Old Goa is equipped with restrooms adapted for wheelchair users. Throughout your tour, you’ll find that the warmth and hospitality of Goans make for an inviting and unforgettable experience.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Palolem Beach

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Palolem Beach

Morning: Arrival and Beach Exploration

Start your day at Palolem Beach, a crescent-shaped expanse known for its calm waters and scenic beauty, nestled in South Goa. Arrive by a rented accessible van, which you can book from Goa’s Dabolim Airport or Margao Railway Station. The beach is equipped with wooden ramps which make the soft sands accessible to wheelchair users. Begin with a soothing wheel along the firm parts of the beach, or rent a beach wheelchair available at local shacks to get closer to the waves.

Afternoon: Lunch and Leisure

For lunch, head to one of the accessible beachfront cafes like ‘Dropadi’, which offers not just an accessible entrance but also an unbeatable view of the Arabian Sea. Relish local Goan dishes such as seafood curry and rice, or enjoy international cuisines. Post-lunch, experience a relaxing Ayurvedic massage at an accessible spa, where therapists are trained to accommodate guests with mobility needs.

Late Afternoon: Dolphin Watching

Next, join a wheelchair-accessible boat tour, specially arranged by local operators upon request, for an enchanting dolphin-watching session. These serene creatures are often spotted frolicking in the nearby waters and make for a delightful sight.

Evening: Sunset and Shopping

As the sun begins to set, wheel yourself to the north end of the beach which is known for its spectacular sunset views. Following this natural display, explore the local market accessible by paved paths, offering handicrafts, souvenirs, and beachwear.

Night: Starlit Dinner

Conclude your day with a dinner under the stars at ‘Magic Italy’, known for its accessible setup and authentic Italian cuisine. Enjoy a pizza alongside the sound of waves, rounding off the perfect day at one of Goa’s most beloved beaches.

Palolem Beach offers not just a trip to the seaside but an accessible adventure that catcalls to the heart of every traveler, ensuring no one misses out on the fun.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Anjuna Beach

Why Visit?

Anjuna Beach Wheelchair-Friendly Itinerary

Morning: Arrival & Beach Time

Start your day by arriving at Anjuna Beach, renowned for its stunning coastline and vibrant atmosphere. Accessible parking is available near the main beach entrance, which is equipped with ramps. Begin with a leisurely roll along the paved paths lining the beach, offering gorgeous sea views and breezy coconut palms overhead. The beach is equipped with wheelchair-accessible loungers, making it easy to relax and soak in the sun or watch the morning waves.

Midday: Explore Anjuna’s Flea Market

Around noon, head to the famous Anjuna Flea Market, just a short distance from the main beach area. Held every Wednesday, the market features wide, flat paths between stalls, ensuring easy navigation for wheelchairs and scooters. Shop for handicrafts, spices, and colorful clothing. Local vendors are often helpful and can assist in bringing items down for a closer look if needed.

Lunch: Wheelchair-Friendly Dining

For lunch, visit one of the nearby wheelchair-accessible restaurants that overlook the sea. Many have ramped entrances and spacious seating. Enjoy traditional Goan dishes like seafood curry and rice, or choose from international cuisines available.

Afternoon: Sunset Viewing

As the day cools, make your way to the Sunset Point, an area specifically modified for accessibility. This spot offers unobstructed views of the horizon. Anjuna’s sunsets are legendary, painting the sky in hues of oranges and pinks.

Evening: Return Home or Relax at a Cafe

Conclude your visit by either heading back to your accommodation or relaxing at one of the accessible beachfront cafes. Sip a cold drink as the beach quiets down, reflecting on a day well spent along one of Goa’s most charismatic shores.

Getting Around

For getting around, consider renting a motorized scooter if you haven"t brought your own mobility device. Local rental agencies often deliver directly to your hotel. Ensure to book in advance to secure the best options.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.