Goa is all about losing track of time. Where you don’t know when the sun goes down and the stars come out as you dance the night away. The throbbing beaches and the cheerful outlook of the many tourists in Goa make you feel like something magical is always about to happen. Goa is in a constant state of excitement. A tropical paradise where night and day merge into an unending journey of relaxation and rejuvenation – almost like a party that everybody has been invited to. However, Goa is also about wandering away from the restless crowds and heading to quaint, unusual cafes to spend some time with yourself or a loved one. It is about stealing away moments and escaping the chatter of the many people around you. In short, Goa is both the calm and the chaos.
Goa has many shades highlighted by its seasons. Which shade you want to witness, is totally your choice. We, at Thomas Cook, will make sure you make the right decision by helping you choose when to take the big step. Each season in Goa has something different to offer. Here, we have for you all the information that you may require in order to choose the most ideal time to travel. Listed for you are also the precautions that you must take before and while you are on your trip.
Take a look!
Peak Season – November to March
Shoulder Season – April and October
Low Season – May to September
| Travel Seasons | Min/Max Temperature | Season |
| March – May | 25-35 °C | Sunny and hot days |
| June – August | 24-30°C | Slightly cooler with frequent rain showers |
| November- March | 21 to 32C | Cool and pleasant winds |
Goa In Winter (November – March)
Temperature – The air temperature during the season of winter fluctuates between 21°C and 32°C.
Weather – The aftermath of the monsoon gives way to all kinds of greens when winter falls. The warm rays of the sun kiss your skin as slightly cold winds play with your hair. You take in the scent of the salty sea as the clear sky above you calls for an adventure. The pleasant weather during the winter season makes it the best time to visit Goa. Tourists start pouring in, owing to the agreeable weather that kicks off the high season. Goa in winter is all about late nights that make you want to sit by the sea with a light shawl wrapping you in a tight embrace as you watch the sea waves beat against the rocks on the seashore.
Significant events – The clement weather calls for a plethora of activities and festivals, attracting tourists from all over the globe. This is perhaps the most suitable time for you to venture outdoors and acquaint yourself with the surroundings. Gallivant around Goa in the winter season and you will sense celebrations in the air. The many churches of Goa look ever so beautiful, illuminated with pristine lights in the night as the sound of carols echo from their walls announcing the arrival of Christmas. Not just Christmas, Goa also has festivals that are central to its culture and spirit. One of the main highlights of this season is the Goa Carnival held in the month of February. This carnival just has one rule, leave your worries at home and get ready to feast on amazing food, music, dance and have a lot of fun. Not just any other festival, musical parades held in the capital do not fail to catch anybody’s eye. It is also a ritual to take the party to the streets, concluding with the famous black and red dance performed by the Clube Nacional in the state capital.
Why you should visit now – This time of the year is all about lit up and crowded streets, watching fellow tourists or locals whiz by you in scooters and dancing the night away with your loved ones. With Goa usually being a warm place and a victim of the strong sunrays, this time of the year grants some mercy to the land of good times. Do not disappoint the adventurer in you as you enjoy the thrill of water sports at Mahdei River or Agonda Beach.
Things to know before the visit – If you are looking for some peace and serenity, we advise you to head to South Goa and the north in case you wish to explore Goa’s much talked about nightlife. Keep in mind that Goa remains shut between 1 and 4 pm in the afternoon. Hence, plan your trip accordingly.
Tips – Since this is the peak season, ensure that your tickets are booked well in advance. Plan your activities and itinerary according to the weather. While you pack, make sure you include both warm and cool clothes as well as sunscreen and some glasses. Carry flip-flops, sandals and some swimwear as well.
Goa In Monsoon (June – August)
Temperature – The air temperature during the season of monsoon ranges between 24°C and 30°C.
Weather – Goa in Monsoon is home to frequent rain showers, subtle drizzle with a chance of thunderstorm. With the scent of the salty sea mixing with the earthy aroma that comes with the rains, Goa is a treat for all the nature-lovers out there. While the days are humid, the nights provide some relief by being cool and pleasant.
Significant events – A little rain never dampened the spirit of Goa. Festivals and events exist in abundance to entertain both locals and tourists coming from all over the globe to this Party State. Goa is not a place but a state of mind. One of the main highlights of this time of the year is the Patolleanchem Feast which is a treat for those who have a sweet tooth. Patollea is a dish that is made out of coconut, jaggery and rice. Not just this delicacy, this festival that is celebrated on 15 August also has local handicrafts on display all through the day. Another festival that is celebrated during this time of the year is Bonderam celebrated at the Divar island, 12 kilometres from Panjim. This festival comprises energetic crowds donning brightly coloured costumes accompanied by some music. Here, berries and toys created from bamboo stems are used to knock down some flags as a mockery of the days of conflict between the districts of a village during the Portuguese era.
Why you should visit now – The rains highlight the beauty of this tropical paradise and reveal all shades of green during this time of the year. This is a good time to witness Goa in all its glory. Since the tourist season is not at its peak, Goa will not be as crowded as it is otherwise. Hence, you do have some leeway. Head to the Dudhsagar Waterfalls to witness the magic of the monsoon. If you are feeling brave, you could trek the jungle paths and make your by crossing the roaring river streams to get a good view of the falls. Or else, taking a train and pass through the falls to marvel at the sheer magnificence.
Things to know before the visit – Do not forget to check the weather reports before booking your tickets and accommodation. Book a hotel that is centrally located and accessible. Carry some cash in case you plan to travel to remote areas and beaches. Watch out for some discounts on accommodation since this is not really the peak season.
Tips – Do carry a lightweight jacket. Carry wind cheaters, sunscreen, sports shoes, mosquito repellents and torches when you plan to venture outdoors.
Goa In Summer (March– May)
Temperature – The air temperature during the season of summer fluctuates between 25°C and 35°C.
Weather – The weather of Goa in summer is all about watching the sunrise as you walk along the seashore, laying on the sandy beaches by the sea to get yourself a tan and sipping on a cold beverage to beat the heat. However, if you feel that a little heat never harmed anyone and wish to take up a challenge, try out some of the water sports such as snorkelling, jet skiing and scuba diving! However, always carry a sunblock and some glasses with you for protection.
Significant events – Though this time of the year is deemed to be less touristy and quieter, Goa seems to be at peace with this fact. Plenty of festivals are in store for you if you are planning to head to Goa in the summer season. One of the main highlights of this season is the Shigmo Festival which is Goa’s version of Holi. The Shigmo Parade in Panjim is what sets this festival apart and makes it so popular. Another popular festival is the Sao Joao Festival that is held in the month of June. Celebrated in a rather unique way, this festival is actually celebrated by people in Goa leaping into wells! However, there it more to this, people say prayers hoping for a good monsoon. The locals also go around singing traditional songs for a good harvest.
Why you should visit now – If you would rather go for the road less traveled by, this is the best time to visit Goa. Goa in the summer season is all about palm trees swaying as the wind touches them, half-empty beaches and quaint cafes. A sweet silence fills the air and opens up scope for many a conversation. Summer in Goa is all about endless possibilities. This is also the best time for shopping with markets offering you unbelievable prices that you must take advantage of.
Things to know before the visit – Do check for discounts that may be available at this time of the year since this is the off season. Plan your activities and itinerary keeping the weather in mind. Wear hats and sunglasses at all times to protect yourself from the heat. Try stepping outdoors after four pm.
Tips – Carry cool and cotton clothes. Stay hydrated by sipping on water, juice or some coconut water to make sure the heat doesn’t get the better of you. If you plan on engaging in water sports, try going in the early hours of the morning.
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