Summary
Goa is India’s smallest and most liberated state. It was actually a colony of Portugal up until 1961, and a strong Portuguese influence still remains. Goa’s coastline stretches for around 100 kilometers (62 miles) and its beaches have become extremely popular tourist destinations.
However, Goa has much more to offer than just the beach! It is particularly picturesque during monsoon time from June to September. Nature flourishes, the rain brings refreshment and romance, and Goa takes on a more traditional flavor. Traveling to Goa during the monsoon allows you to experience it in a local way, as most of the party crowd has gone and it is mainly visited by Indian families on vacation at this time of year.
What’s the Monsoon Like in Goa?
Those who are unfamiliar with the monsoon in India will probably wonder just how much it rains. The reality is that the monsoon is very unpredictable! It can rain heavily for days and then be dry for days. It does rain frequently, and the power often goes out. July is the wettest month, while the rain eases up in August and September, with shorter downpours and more sunny patches. Here’s all you need to know about India’s epic monsoon season.
North or South Goa?
It is essential to note that Goa’s beach shacks are packed up during the monsoon season. As a result, the lesser-developed South Goa is virtually deserted. Therefore, it’s better to head to North Goa, which has more permanent structures. The most action can be found along the developed stretch from Candolim to Baga beaches. Baga, in particular, is favored by Indian tourists during the monsoon. Unfortunately, many groups of guys do get drunk and rowdy, making some women feel uncomfortable. Instead, exploring inland to experience Goa’s hinterland and villages in places such as Aldona, Saligao, or Siolim is recommended.
Things to Do During the Monsoon Season in Goa
Goa’s wildlife sanctuaries are open year-round. Major sanctuaries include Mollem National Park (within Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary) in eastern Goa and Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary in South Goa near the Karnataka border. The stunning Dudhsagar Falls is on the edge of Mollem National Park, and while the waterfall rages down during the monsoon, it is off-limits to tourists for safety reasons. Alternatively, consider visiting Tambdi Sula waterfall in Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary, which requires a steep uphill trek; most people tend to avoid it due to the difficulty. Remember, a guide is essential as the trail isn’t clearly marked. This is one option for a guided day trip where you can also visit the ancient 12th-century Mahadev Temple, believed to be the oldest Hindu temple in Goa.
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a lesser-known destination in the Swapnagandha Valley of northeast Goa, near Valpoi. An unusual attraction during monsoon is the bio-luminescent fungi called Mycena, which glows in the dark. Activities like white water rafting and hiking around Vagheri Hills and Chorla Ghat are also popular. The area boasts several waterfalls, with Vazra Sakla Falls at Chorla Ghat being the largest.
Trekking to Mynapi and Savri waterfalls in Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, located in southeast Goa, is possible during the monsoon. However, canyoning and abseiling in the Upper Sauri region are usually suspended during this season.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, the smallest but most accessible sanctuary in Goa, is perfect for families. Located near Ponda, it features nature trails, botanical gardens, an animal rehabilitation center, mini zoo, and deer safari park.
The spice plantations around Ponda also welcome visitors during the monsoon season. One of the oldest and most recognized is the 130-acre Sahakari Spice Farm.
If the sun emerges, you may spot birds drying off at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorao Island in the Mandovi River.
For those interested in Goa’s heritage, exploring the characterful Fontainhas Latin Quarter in Panjim, visiting old restored Portuguese mansions in South Goa, or exploring Reis Margos Fort can be enriching experiences.
An electric bike tour is an offbeat way to explore hidden gems in Goa, conducted daily by B:Ride in collaboration with Goa Tourism.
The rain won’t hinder your sightseeing, as the Hop-On-Hop-Off sightseeing bus operates daily year-round. This service conveniently connects many of Goa’s tourist spots, including Old Goa.
However, if the weather is too wet, consider visiting interesting museums such as the Museum of Goa, which brings Goa’s history to life through contemporary art, or Goa Chitra, showcasing artifacts dedicated to agriculture and traditional Goan lifestyles.
Thrill-seekers can explore bungee jumping, flyboarding, or paintball. Trip Raja, based in Calangute, offers these exciting activities along with numerous water sports and boat trips.
Feeling lucky? Experience gambling at one of the offshore casinos in Goa. The casino boats are frequently bustling with Indian tourists and offer lively entertainment at night.
Festivals During the Monsoon Season in Goa
One of the best reasons to visit Goa during the monsoon is the vibrant festivals that take place. The most popular festival, Sao-Joao (the fertility feast of Saint John the Baptist), is celebrated in late June, involving the fascinating sight of men jumping into overflowing village wells to retrieve bottles of local feni alcohol. The feast of Saints Peter and Paul at the end of June invites attendees to sail upriver on rafts, performing plays and songs. In late August, the carnival-like Bonderam flag festival is held on tiny Divar Island, off the coast from Panjim. Ganesh Chaturthi is also observed in Goa in late August or September.
Where to Stay
Wildernest Nature Resort, ranked among the best eco resorts in India, offers enticing monsoon season specials. Nestled in nature at Chorla Ghat, cottages start from 5,500 rupees per night for a double, including all meals, tax, and activities like nature walks and trekking—nearly 50% less than peak season rates.
Inland, along the backwaters of Goa’s hinterland in Aldona, Olaulim Backyards becomes lush during the monsoon season.
Dudhsagar Plantation Farmstay, known as one of the top farm stays in India, is conveniently located near Dudhsagar and Tambdi Sula waterfalls. The most engaging monsoon activity offered there is a fish foot spa in the local river, where fish nibble at your feet!
Most luxury hotels in Goa also offer attractive monsoon rates, so consider checking out these irresistible luxury private villas in Goa, villa hotels, homestays, and budget accommodations.
Where to Eat and Drink
Restaurants located away from the beach generally remain open during the monsoon. Lloyd’s in Calangute, situated after the chapel on Candolim Main Road, is a popular destination on stormy monsoon evenings. It serves delicious Goan home cooking and remains open throughout the night, fostering a lively atmosphere with frequent visitors. Britto’s on Baga Beach is another excellent spot for seafood.
The immensely popular Thalassa now operates year-round at its new location, Teso Waterfront in Siolim.
Additional restaurants that proudly remain open include the funky Artjuna garden cafe and lifestyle shop in Anjuna, Cantare in Saligao (a tavern featuring live music), Gunpowder (serving South Indian cuisine) in Assagao, and Mustard (offering Bengali-French fusion) and Morgan’s Place (serving Italian) in Sangolda.
Goa’s Latin Quarter also features numerous delightful restaurants and bars.
Nightlife During the Monsoon Season in Goa
Goa’s famous nightlife is quite subdued during the monsoon; however, the renowned Mambo’s and Tito’s at Baga Beach remain lively throughout the year. Cape Town Cafe, situated on the same road, also operates during this time. In Candolim, you can find the vibrant Cohiba Bar and Kitchen with live music, along with Sinq Beach Club and LPK Waterfront featuring DJs. Retro music bands perform at Cavala, which attracts a more mature crowd. Curlies, located on Anjuna beach, stays open during the monsoon season, although Anjuna often appears deserted.
For event listings, visit What’s Up Goa to stay informed about happenings in Goa.
Getting There
Goa boasts excellent connectivity to the rest of India via various modes of transport. However, the bus can be slow and uncomfortable; hence, flying or taking the train is often preferable. Prepaid taxis are readily available at the Goa airport.
Trains on the Konkan Railway can cover the distance from Mumbai to Goa in less than 10 hours, with most trains stopping at Margao (Madgaon), Goa’s main railway station. Some trains, such as the Konkankanya Express, may stop at additional stations. For details on the best trains from Mumbai to Goa, be aware that a monsoon timetable is enforced from mid-June until the end of October. Trains slow their speed during the monsoon for safety, resulting in many rescheduling earlier than usual. Expect the trip to take at least two or three hours longer than normal.
Should You Visit Goa in the Monsoon?
The reality is that Goa experiences a significant drop in tourist traffic during the monsoon, with many places closing down. Therefore, if you anticipate a beach holiday or vibrant parties, you may be disappointed. In contrast, take advantage of fantastic hotel discounts, indulge in delicious food, embrace village life, and appreciate the natural beauty and unique Portuguese heritage that Goa has to offer during this enchanting season.
