Braganza House heritage mansion tour
Braganza House (Casa Bragança) is a privately owned Portuguese-era mansion in Chandor, South Goa. The house is an excellent example of Goan-Portuguese aristocratic homes and contains generations of family heirlooms — carved rosewood furniture, Chinese porcelain, antique mirrors and chandeliers, hand-painted azulejos (Portuguese tiles), family portraits and a small private chapel. The property offers a glimpse into Goa's colonial past and the lifestyle of wealthy landowning families. Visits are by guided tour with a family member or an appointed guide, usually by appointment.
Location
Braganza House (Casa Bragança), Chandor, Chandor (near Margao), South Goa, India
Duration
45–75 minutes (standard visit). Private/group tours 1–2 hours depending on depth and Q&A.
Best Time to Visit
Best months: November to March (cool, dry season). Best time of day: early morning (9:00–11:00) or late afternoon (15:00–17:30) to avoid mid-day heat and get softer light for photography.
Pricing
Approximate pricing: INR 200–500 per person for a standard guided tour. Private or group tours: rates available on request (typically INR 1,500–3,000 for small groups). Children under 6: usually free. Note: Cash preferred; some arrangements may accept digital payments but booking in advance is recommended.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Well-preserved Portuguese-era interiors and architecture
Collections of Chinese porcelain, Victorian chandeliers and antique mirrors
Hand-painted azulejos (Portuguese tiles) and carved rosewood furniture
Family portraits and historic documents that trace local history
A small private chapel and formal courtyard/garden spaces
Opportunities for close-up photography of antiques and decorative details (with permission)
Itinerary
Arrival, welcome and short introduction
Meet your guide or family host; quick orientation about the house's history, rules, and photography permissions.
Guided room-by-room tour of the mansion
Explore main living areas, dining room, library, decorative tile work, antique furniture and family portraits. Guides typically share anecdotes and historical context.
Chapel, courtyard and garden walk
Visit the private chapel and stroll the courtyard/garden. Learn about landscaping, old trees and any family memorials.
Q&A, photography and wrap-up
Final questions, optional photos (follow the house’s photography policy), information on further reading or local sites. Souvenir or donation if offered.
Safety Requirements
No flash photography in rooms where antiques or paintings are labeled 'no flash'
Do not touch or move antiques, furniture or display items
Modest dress recommended out of respect for a private family home (cover shoulders and avoid wet/dirty clothing)
Stairs, thresholds and old flooring may be uneven—watch your step; not fully wheelchair accessible
Advance booking recommended; family-run tours may be canceled at short notice
Tips
Book in advance — Braganza House is privately owned and visits are often by appointment only.
Carry cash (small denominations) for entry fees, tips or small purchases; digital payment may not always be available.
Ask for permission before photographing interiors or people; some rooms may be off-limits.
Combine with nearby attractions — schedule with a visit to Margao market, nearby churches and village walks in Chandor for a half-day trip.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat/sunscreen during hotter months.
Respect the space — this is a lived-in heritage home; keep noise low and follow the guide’s instructions.
