Best time to visit Goa

The best time to visit Goa depends on the type of vacation you are looking for. This tiny state in India is popular for its beaches, parties, and fresh seafood. Divided into North Goa and South Goa, both sides offer very different experiences.

While North Goa is great for partying, visiting cool cafes, and shopping, South Goa is more secluded, showing the natural beauty of the state. The beaches of North Goa are crowded and lively, while the beaches of South Goa are quieter and pristine.

Goa has a tropical climate, which means it is hot and humid for most of the year. However, the weather does not make the state any less of a crowd favorite among tourists. Read this article to find out the best season to visit Goa and its beaches.

Best time to visit Goa

The best time to visit Goa is from November to February, the winter season in India. This is also the peak season for tourism in the country. The weather in Goa during this time is around 22 to 32 degrees Celsius. The dry season with pleasant weather is perfect for sightseeing, exploring, or lazing around on the many, many beaches of Goa. There are also a lot of festivals and events happening during this time.

Summers in Goa are harsh, but you will still find a few tourists here. Although not the best time to visit Goa, you can still make the most of the weather by enjoying a staycation or exploring the water sports and activities along the beaches that are open in summer. Monsoon season is a beautiful time to visit Goa, despite the rain. You can explore the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks of Goa, visit the Dudhsagar Waterfalls in the rain, or simply embrace the beauty and peace that this wet season brings to Goa. July is the wettest month in the state, so most beach activities are closed during this weather.

Goa is a lot more than its beaches – with historical churches, temples, local markets, wildlife reserves, natural beauty, and plantations, there is something for everyone in this state. So whether you visit during the pleasant winters, hot summers, or the rains in monsoon, you will find a lot of things to experience.

Winter season in Goa (November to February)

November to February is the winter season in Goa, and the peak tourist season of the state. The temperatures hover between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius, and although there is no escape from the humidity, the climate is cool and comfortable. It is a dry season, though, compared to the rest of the year. There are a lot of things to do in this dry season and pleasant weather – tan at the beaches, enjoy water sports and beach activities, party through the night in North Goa, or explore the less-discovered South Goa. It is a great time for outdoor activities. Plus, there are a lot of fun festivities and events, such as Christmas, New Year, parties, fairs, and parades in this season.

However, since this is the prime tourist season, you will find a lot of crowds in Goa during this time, especially on Christmas and New Year. Plus, you will have to book your accommodations in advance, as the holiday rush means everything gets sold out quickly.

Best places to visit in Goa in winter season

Palolem Beach, Calangute Beach, Old Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fort Aguada, spice plantations

Basilica of Bom Jesus

Summer season in Goa (March to June)

Goa is extremely hot and humid in the summer season. From March to June, temperatures can go up to 40 degrees Celsius. Even though the beaches are windy, the air is very warm and most people cannot bear being outside for a long time in the intense heat. You can dodge the crowds and get some peace and quiet in summer in this beach state.

You can still enjoy outdoor activities and water sports like parasailing, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. However, make sure to use sunscreen liberally all over your body and carry sunglasses and hats for protection from the harsh sun.

For a budget traveler, this is a good time to visit Goa. Accommodations are cheap, and a lot of stores have sales and discounts. You can plan your activities during early mornings or in the evenings, when the weather is slightly tolerable.

Best places to visit in Goa in summer season

Splashdown Water Park, Anjuna Flea Market, Mapusa Market, Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Agonda Beach, Colva Beach

Monsoon season in Goa (June to September)

June to September is monsoon season in Goa. Goa is situated on the Konkan coast of India, which receives a lot of rain. The rain usually starts in May and goes on until September, but most of the rain is concentrated from June to August. July is the wettest month in Goa with heavy downpours and up to 27 days of rain. The state does not get more than 3 to 4 hours of sunlight throughout the day.

This wet season is not much frequented by travelers and tourists because of the heavy downpours. The beach activities are inactive, and a lot of restaurants and beach shacks are closed for the season due to the weather. The rivers of Goa swell due to the rain. While not a prime tourist season, monsoons in Goa are mesmerizing, and if you do not mind the frequent rain showers or heavy downpours, this is one of the best weather to visit the quaint state.

Goa gets abundant rain, and the landscape turns lush green. You can enjoy trekking, birdwatching, and white water rafting in the rain. You will get all the solitude you need, since there are no crowds in Goa in the rainy season. You might also get some good discounts on accommodation. It is the perfect place and time for a budget-friendly vacation. If you prefer luxury, though, you can enjoy a beautiful staycation at one of the many luxurious resorts or villas in Goa at discounted rates.

For nature lovers, the wet season is the best time to see the state – South Goa is especially beautiful in the rain. While many national parks in India are closed during the rain, the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of Goa actually come alive in this weather! You can visit Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, or Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.

 However, if you are visiting Goa in July, the wettest month of the year, make sure to be up to date with the rain updates and weather forecasts, since the intensity of the rain can be unpredictable. Rain showers are especially prolonged during peak monsoon.

Best places to visit in Goa in the monsoon season

Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Chapora Fort, Cabo de Rama fort, Mandovi River, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Goa in monsoons

Festivals and events in Goa

Christmas: The entire state is adorned with lights, Christmas trees, and other decorations to celebrate Christmas on 25th December. Midnight masses and feasts take place throughout the state. There is a festive vibe all around.

New Year: New Year is the most popular holiday in Goa, as many tourists from across the country head  to this party destination to bring in the New Year in style. Music festivals, fireworks, parties, and food are a part of all the celebrations in the state. Needless to say, this is the busiest time in Goa, and also one of the most crowded.

Goa Carnival: The Goa Carnival that takes place in February is a three-day festival that is one of the major highlights of the state. Food, dance, music, and a lot of fun are the perfect words to describe the festival. There are many parades and parties that take to the streets, ending with the Black and Red dance performed in Panjim, the state capital.

Sao Joao Festival: The Sao Joao Festival is celebrated in June in a unique way – young men jump into lakes and rivers to celebrate the arrival of monsoons and pray and sing local songs for a better monsoon and good harvest.

The Grape Escapade: Held in January, the Grape Escapade is India’s biggest wine festival. Wine lovers from all over the country flock to Goa for wine tastings, delectable food, and cultural performances.

The Goa Food and Cultural Festival: Taking place in February, the Goa Food and Cultural Festival is a treat for foodies. The festival showcases the Goan cuisine in all its glory through local, traditional food. There are also cultural performances that accompany the authentic flavors.

Bonderam Festival: Bonderam festival is celebrated in August at Divar Island, a few kilometers from Panjim. The festival commemorates disputes for land and property during olden times. You will find crowds of people in vibrant costumes and music.

Feast of St Francis Xavier: Celebrated on 3rd December every year, this festival honors St Francis Xavier, who was instrumental in spreading Christianity in India. You will witness masses and processions on this day, which attracts many followers and tourists to Old Goa.

Festivals in Goa are a fun time to visit the state

Tips to enjoy your trip to Goa

• If you are visiting Goa in winter, make sure you book everything well in advance. Since it is peak tourist season, accommodations and flights tend to get sold out very quickly.
• If you want to enjoy the much talked about nightlife of Goa, visit North Goa. If you want some peace and tranquility, head to South Goa.
• Pack for the region and weather – swimwear, flip flops, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats – Goa is one of the places in India where you don’t have to worry much about what you wear. Wear light and breathable clothes, since the climate is hot and humid. If you are traveling in the rain, carry an umbrella or raincoat and appropriate footwear.
• Stay hydrated. The tropical weather can make you exhausted very easily, so drink plenty of water.
• One of the most popular ways of transport in Goa is renting a scooter or bike. It’s easy and fun. However, you will need a valid driver’s license if you want to try out this option. There are also auto-rickshaws and taxis available in most places. During rain showers, do not try to ride your bike in the rain. Take a cab or auto-rickshaw if the rain is intense.
• If you want to experience the local life of Goa, there are many homestays you can choose to stay at, and get a glimpse of the authentic Goan lifestyle.
• Stay safe and aware of your surroundings, especially in very crowded or isolated areas.

So, do you feel like packing your bags for a trip to Goa? Let us know, and we will make that happen! At India Someday, we plan personalized trips to India based on your requirements and interests. Contact us and together, we can plan the perfect trip to India for you!