6 Unbeatable Reasons for Visiting Goa This Monsoon

When one thinks of places to visit in Goa, the first thing that comes to your mind is the beach. But there’s a lot more to this beautiful little state than the sun, sand and surf, and the monsoon season is just the perfect time to discover that. Rich in natural beauty, complete with unending carpets of greenery, a laid back way of life and delicious cuisine, monsoons is the best time to visit Goa. Goa during monsoons, or the “off season”, as many like to call it is also a great time to avoid the throng of tourists and enjoy Goa at a leisurely pace. What’s more, you can even secure great deals on Hotels in Goa! So this monsoon, here are six things to experience Goa like a local and discover the romance of the rains. Thank me later.

Enjoy the Rain

There’s something truly magical about Goa during the monsoon. The rainy season means that Goa is taking a break from the busy tourist season and this is a perfect opportunity for you to put your feet up along with the locals as well. Take a lengthy siesta, or a rainy walk along the beach. If there's adventure on your mind then hike up to Fort Chapora (of Dil Chahta Hai Fame) and watch raindrops crashing into the ocean. If it’s relaxation on your mind, then sit in your balcony and enjoy the rainfall along with a hot cup of coffee and a book.

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Unlike wildlife sanctuaries across the rest of India, sanctuaries in Goa are open all year round. These sanctuaries are an absolute must-visit during the monsoons when they are washed clean by the rains. Some of Goa’s popular wildlife sanctuaries are the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary which is located in North Goa near Valpoi. This sanctuary has a large number of Bengal Tigers and is set to become a Project Tiger Reserve. The Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary and Mollem National Park is also a popular wildlife sanctuary, which is situated in Mollem along the Goa Karnatak border. Another sanctuary you must visit is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a popular one with tourists and school children. This wildlife park has a deer park, a mini zoo, as well as many beautiful nature trails which are perfect for hikes.

The Dudhsagar Falls

The Dudhsagar Falls, located in the Mollem National Park is a must-visit during the monsoon when the waters are in full flow. The milky white waters, from which these iconic falls derive their name, come cascading down a massive height of 301 metres (987 feet). Surrounded by dense green foliage, this is one of Goa’s most stunning natural phenomena. Trekking is a popular activity at the Dudhsagar Falls and there are four trekking routes that you can take to reach the falls. There are two abandoned shelters for the benefit of trekkers en route. Make sure you carry enough drinking water and medication along since none is available along the way.

Spice Plantations

Not something one immediately associates with Goa, but the spice plantations at Savoi-Verem are a popular attraction in the state. The main spices grown here are Cloves, Cinnamon, Cardamom, Nutmeg, Ginger and Pepper. Recommended highly by the locals, the Savoi Plantations come alive beautifully during the monsoon and this is one of the best times to visit them. Take a guided tour around the plantation for a richer experience. There is also a cashew distillery on the premises which is a must-visit. After your tour, enjoy a delicious, traditional Goan Saraswat meal served at the Sadafuli Restaurant in the plantation. Savour Goan delicacies such as Stuffed Crabs, Chicken Xacuti, Sol Kadi, Fried Mussels and Prawn and Vegetable Curries. Accommodation is also available on the premises if you wish to stay over.

Fertility Feast of St. John the Baptist

One of the prime reasons many tourists choose to visit Goa in the monsoon is because of the vibrant Sao Joao Festival. Also known as the Fertility Feast of Saint John the Baptist, this festival is celebrated in late June every year with great zest. The Sao Joao festival involves a group of men jumping into village wells (don’t worry they’re not committing suicide!) to retrieve bottles of Feni (the local alcohol).The feasts of Saint Peter and Paul are also celebrated towards the end of June with much enthusiasm. The feast witnesses people sailing on the river in rafts singing and dancing. Another colourful festival which is celebrated in Goa is the annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival.

Nightlife

At the end of the day, what is Goa without its vibrant parties!  This is by far the best season for party animals, as places like Mambo’s and Tito’s that you usually need to queue up endlessly to enter are now free of the crowds. Head to the Bar at Park Hotel in Calangute, or enjoy live music at the chilled out Cavala, on Baga-Calangute Road. If karaoke is what you’re looking for then head to St. Anthony’s bar on Baga Beach and sing your heart out. Another popular nightclub in Goa remains the LPK (short for Love Passion Karma) in Candolim, which is famous for its foot tapping music and peppy ambience. Goa is the only state in India where gambling is legal and there are many floating casinos where you can try your luck at the slot machines and roulette.

There are few destinations around the world that can rival the year round charm that Goa possesses. Contrary to popular opinion, a vacation in Goa during the rains is sheer bliss! So what are you waiting for? Plan your holiday to Goa and splash your way through the place this monsoon!  

And here are a few tips if you’re planning a quick getaway to Goa:

Where to Stay? Sinq Beach Resort (3 star), Neelam The Grand (4 star), Grand Hyatt (5 star). 

Budget: Rs 2,500 per person (inclusive of 2-night stay in a 3 star hotel)

Distance from Mumbai: 590 km (11 hrs by road, 1 hr by flight). 

Traveller Type: Friends, Solo Travellers, Couples

​Book Your Flight to Goa Now!