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Goa is one of the smallest states in India, famous for its beautiful beaches, active nightlife, and a blend of Portuguese culture. But the flip side is during the monsoon season which prevails from June to September, Goa turns into a serene place with a green background. The normally crowded sandy beaches are replaced by quiet ones and the whole area becomes characterised by a fresh, invigorating feel. From adventurous outdoor activities to exotic Goan cultural tours or just to take a break and relax amidst nature there are an array of amusing things to do in Goa in monsoon.
10 Things To Do In Goa In Monsoon
Are you wondering what to do in Goa in monsoon? Whether it is navigating through the foggy waterfalls or gliding through the calm rivers, here are ten exciting things to do in Goa in monsoon.
1. Explore Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Photo: Samuel Ferrara / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Dudhsagar Falls is one of the tallest and most magnificent waterfalls in India and during the monsoon period, the beauty of the place is unbelievable. Dudhsagar, situated on the border of Goa and Karnataka, got its name due to its whitish colour as it cascades down with a height of more than 300 metres. Visiting the waterfall during the monsoon season is indeed breathtaking. The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary around becomes a place filled with so much greenery that the whole journey towards the falls becomes more of an adventure.
Location: Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Sonaulim
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Entry Fee: ₹400 for adults, additional charges for jeep safari
Suggested Read: Things To Do In South Goa With Family On Your Next Trip
2. Take A Monsoon Cruise On The Mandovi River
Photo: Mark McGregor / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
One such enjoyable activity is a monsoon cruise especially on the Mandovi River which gives an altogether different experience. When it begins to rain, the shores of the river are filled with green vegetation, which gives a certain mystique to the trip with an overcast sky. Such cruises are accompanied by live Goan music and folk dances for tourists while giving them an opportunity to taste traditional Goan cuisine through a sumptuous buffet. While on the boat, one gets to see old constructions, and beautiful mangroves, and may even be lucky to see some wildlife. It is one of the best things to do in Goa in monsoon.
Location: Panaji, Mandovi River
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Cost/Person:₹600
3. Explore The Spice Plantations
Photo: Muhammad Taufik / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Goa spice plantations are at their best during the monsoon and visiting the place during this period can be spectacular due to the beautiful effects that rain has on the spice crops. Sited predominantly around the Ponda and Savoi-Verem regions, these plantations cultivate different spices like cardamom, cinnamon and black pepper. There are numerous guided tours provided where one can see how these spices are grown, and harvested, and each with the bonus of taking place in a lush rainforest. After the plantation tour, visitors are accorded a Goan meal on banana leaves, which is the highlight of the plantation visit.
Location: Ponda and Savoi-Verem
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Entry Fee/Person: ₹400, including lunch
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Anjuna For A Mesmerising Vacation In The Coastal Gem
4. Attend The Monsoon Festivals
Photo: John Thomas / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Monsoon does not only bring life to Goan landscapes, it also introduces colourful festivals that signify the beauty of Goan culture and traditions. Some of the most important monsoon festivals celebrated include Sao Joao and Bonderam. Sao Joao, observed in June, is a baptize festival in the name of Saint John, The Baptist. People plunge into the water wells, rivers and even ponds as a replica of a saint leaping in his mother’s womb. Another vibrant festival is Bonderam which takes place in August in Divar Island and involves depicting the former territorial disputes through a parade.
Best Time to Visit: June (Sao Joao), August (Bonderam)
5. Explore Goa’s Ghats
Photo: Zephir Brush / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Western Ghats, a mountain range that borders Goa on the east, has been listed as a Natural World Heritage Site due to its biological and geological significance. These ghats are even more scenic during the monsoon with the hills appearing greener than ever, the peaks veiled in mist, and waterfalls in full force. The journey through the ghats is something to be savoured on this side of heaven. Whether it is an outing in a car or a trekking, or perhaps simply to appreciate the natural wonders, the Ghats are indeed best to be explored during the Goan monsoon.
Location: Chorla Ghat, Amboli Ghat
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Suggested Read: Top Beaches In Goa For A Fun-Filled And Sunny Vacation
6. Bicycle Tours Of Rural Goa
Photo: Marek Piwnicki / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Indeed, one of the most effective ways of engaging in a tour within the uncharted territories of Goa during the monsoon is by bike touring. The rains add a new, lively colour to the countryside with the fields becoming deep green. Most of these tours follow the roads that are bordered by coconut palm trees, rice paddies and small villages. One can get down at local markets, have first-hand experience with the locals and get an insight into the Goan rural life. This environmentally friendly mode offers an unhurried and close interaction with nature and heritage.
Location: South Goa, Divar Island
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Cost/person: ₹1,500 for guided tours
7. Visit Ancient Temples and Churches
Photo: Debby Hudson / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Goa is home to a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, with ancient temples and churches that stand as a testament to its diverse history. The monsoon season, with its tranquil ambience, provides the perfect backdrop for exploring these architectural marvels. Notable sites include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the relics of St. Francis Xavier, and the Mangeshi Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or spirituality, these ancient structures offer a deep dive into Goa’s rich cultural heritage, with the added charm of monsoon’s lush, green surroundings.
Location: Old Goa, Ponda
strong>Best Time to Visit: June to September
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Goa In December For A Serene Getaway In The Tropical Paradise
8. Enjoy Kayaking In The Backwaters
Photo: Alexander Bobrov / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
A must-do in Goa, in monsoon, is to take up kayaking in the backwaters. The rivers and backwaters rise during the rainy season, and this makes it suitable for kayaking. Enjoy a quiet boat ride through the Chapora or Sal River where the water is calm and there is a great chance to see fish jump out of the water and dense mangrove vegetation all around. Hiring a kayak for the monsoon season also means that a range of bird and animal species can also be spotted in such regions.
Location: Chapora River, Sal Backwaters
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Cost/Person: ₹1,200 for guided tours
9. Discover Hidden Waterfalls
Photo: Jeffrey Workman / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Monsoon is the best time to trek across the Goan mountains in search of beautiful waterfalls other than the famous Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Waterfalls like Tambdi Surla, Arvalem, and Netravali are at their best and this is the ideal time to avoid crowds and enjoy the beauty of waterfalls. Here, you can enjoy a quiet time outdoors, in the midst of breathtaking views of the natural landscapes. The access to these waterfalls is most often accompanied by the views of the rich greenery and magical nature. These are one of the serene things to see in Goa in monsoon.
Location: Tambdi Surla (Sanguem), Arvalem (Sanquelim)
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Suggested Read: Explore The Top Places To Visit Near Goa For An Unforgettable Adventure
10. Explore The Wildlife Sanctuaries
Photo: Eli Prater / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
A great time to visit Goa is during the monsoon season particularly for those interested in wildlife since most of the sanctuary areas rejuvenate during this time. The Mollem National Park also known as the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in Mollem, and the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in Ponda regions look beautiful with the rain bringing a change of colours to the green leafy surroundings. This time offers the best opportunity to come across different fauna like deer, bison, and a variety of birds, which can be seen much more easily against the background of the bright green foliage after the rain.
Location: Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary (Mollem), Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary (Ponda)
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Entry Fee/Person: ₹50, additional charges for jeep safaris
Exploring Goa during the monsoon season is a great way to see another beautiful side of this well-known amazing state. During this time, cultural celebrations brighten the place, and there are several waterfalls and river cruises that make touring interesting. Bring along your raincoats and umbrellas and indulge in a plethora of amusing things to do in Goa in monsoon with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Kiran Patel / Pexels
