The monsoon season in Goa brings breathtaking beauty with its lush green landscapes, replenished waterfalls, and captivating coastal charm. While Goa is stereotyped as a peak season destination (between October to May), it is an attractive destination all year round, including the monsoon season. Goa during the monsoon season is the ideal time to explore the off-season wonders and indulge in authentic local experiences.
Water Sports Activities
Many tourists believe that Goa shuts down during the monsoon season, primarily because of the weather and activities available. While most beachside businesses and water sports activities may temporarily close or operate at limited capacity, there are several opportunities for enjoyment and exploration in Goa during the rainy season.
There is a notable shift in the water activities with the change in season. Beach water sports transition to river-based adventures as an alternate avenue for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts. River rafting, kayaking, and speedboat rides are some of the popular river water activities that can be enjoyed during the monsoon season in Goa. Safety precautions and guidance from experienced professionals are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Offbeat Experiences to Explore
The common misconception is that there are no fun outdoor activities during the monsoons. However, for those seeking offbeat adventure activities and a closer connection with nature, Goa in the monsoon season is a great time to visit. Whether it is trekking to waterfalls, cycling through scenic routes, or going on nature walks exploring quaint villages, Goa offers a wide range of activities during this season as well. Cycling tours will take you through the verdant countryside and scenic coastal routes, providing a glimpse into the local life and natural beauty Goa has to offer.
Trekking or hiking to waterfalls such as Dudhsagar Falls and Tambdi Surla Falls is another exciting activity that permits visitors to witness the magnificence and beauty of nature. Dedicate a day to trekking to a waterfall where you can enjoy swimming or even picnicking with family or friends. It is advisable to travel with a reliable guide or join organised tours for trekking and exploring waterfalls, ensuring you have an experienced companion who can navigate the terrain safely. Several tour operators in Goa specialise in organising and guiding these tours and provide the necessary logistics, routes, equipment, and support services to its participants. Avoid venturing into isolated areas during heavy rains and follow the instructions of local authorities.
Another upside to vacationing during the monsoon season is the availability of affordable accommodation and travel. With the reduced influx of tourists, many hotels and resorts offer attractive discounts and deals thereby permitting time to explore and experience Goa without breaking the bank. Additionally, airlines and other modes of transportation may offer discounted fares or special promotions, further enhancing the affordability of the trip.
The Local Cuisine and Nightlife
While most shacks are shut down during the off-season from June to September, certain popular shacks along the Baga stretch (Baga-Candolim-Calangute) are open to people all year round. There are a myriad of shacks and restaurants vegetarians can choose from as well. Although, it is perceived that the local cuisine primarily caters to seafood lovers and meat eaters, shacks and restaurants have a wide range of delicious vegetarian options to choose from. Some of the popular Goan vegetarian dishes are Sorak which is an onion and tomato paste hot curry served with rice, Bimbla Uddamethi (curry) made with coconut gravy served with rice, and Chanya ross (dry peas curry) with pao (Goan bread). Ghotache sasav, which is a ripe mango curry, is another must-try option.
Another misguided notion is that there is no thriving nightlife during this period. However, there are quite a few pubs, clubs, and sea view hotels in Goa that are open all year. However, it is essential to verify the status of these places closer to your visit. The availability during the monsoon season may be subject to changes and individual decisions made by the establishments. June and September would be the ideal time to visit as these months experience sporadic bursts of showers followed by a dry spell. The rains during these two months are less than the peak monsoon season of July and August.
To ensure your monsoon trip is a successful one, there are a few must-haves to consider when packing for Goa. Carry a sturdy umbrella or a raincoat to protect yourself from the rain. Waterproof footwear is essential for navigating through the streets and exploring muddy trails. Additionally, packing light, quick-drying clothing made of breathable fabrics is recommended to stay comfortable during rainy weather.
