Goa in the Monsoon: Your Complete Travel Guide

Experiencing Goa’s Monsoon Magic: An Insider’s Guide
It has been more than ten years since my partner and I explored Goa during the rainy season. How we stumbled upon what turned out to be quite an adventure. Clearly etched in my memory are those days of riding across Goa’s countryside on a motorbike, taking refuge under ancient banyan trees during heavy downpours with coseteners, watching peacocks dancing amidst lush greenery, cycling through tranquil islands, and interacting with farmers in their paddy fields. Participated in the vibrant Sao Joao festival—a celebration where locals leap into wells with gay abandon!

Much has changed in Goa since that monsoon adventure. What was once a quiet season is now a time of great activity. Many of those small cafes and restaurants that used to shut down during the rains now stay open, and the roads are bustling with people. The picturesque paddy fields and sweet Portuguese-era homes are gradually being replaced by modern developments and ever-increasing traffic.

Still, there are bits and pieces of Goa where monsoon magic has retained its magic. A retreat for nature lovers, the backwaters, rivers, and emerald hills offer a secluded spot for rest. I love going to sleep with the rhythmic patter of tropical rain and the dramatic shows of light and thunder.

In this article, I share some of the top experiences one could have in Goa during the monsoon season, the season that spells hidden gems, local experiences, and tranquility.

Why Goa in the Monsoon?
Explore a New Goa: This season unfolds a new side of Goa. While the beaches are definitely not ideal for sunbathing or swimming—there is rough sand and wet sea on offer, but this time evinces other aspects of Goa. Come and experience the rich cultural heritage, lively farming life, serene backwaters, and breathtaking seasonal waterfalls.

Fewer Crowds: Although the monsoon has started attracting more and more visitors over the years, it is still far less crowded than the peak tourist season, October to February. This means less congestion and more opportunities to enjoy the beauty of Goa in peace.

Budget travel: With fewer tourists, and heaps of accommodations offering special monsoon rates, this is a good time to visit if you are on a budget. Bike rentals and other services are also cheaper during the monsoon.

Perfect for Slow Travel: The monsoon season is just the time if you like it slow. With fewer tourists, it becomes easy to find rentals for a longer duration and live life like a local. This is the ideal time to see Goa in a more leisurely pace.

Seasonal Waterfalls: One of the many unique charms of the rainy season is how the waterfalls of Goa turn into absolutely stunning natural spectacles.

When is Monsoon Season in Goa?
Knowing the Monsoon Cycle: Traditionally, the pre-monsoon rains break out in early to mid-June. However, it is usually pretty hot and humid until the actual monsoon gets underway at the end of June. Once the monsoon gets into full swing, there are cloudy skies, frequent showers, and at times, cool evenings. The peak monsoon duration—from late June to August—is matched by heavy rains and lush landscapes. It is only by early September that the intensity of the rain decreases, though intermittent showers still continue till the month’s end. I really like visiting at the end of August when the rains are not as heavy, and everything is really green and refreshed.

Things to Do during Goa’s Monsoon
Waterfall Adventures: If you want to feel the wild side of Goa, take a waterfall hike by local guides. With Beatroute Explorers, have a slice of Goan hospitality coupled with hiking around waterfalls. Under the guidance of Keith, local Goan from his heart and soul, this trek will be for secret waterfalls and beautiful forests.

Cliff Diving and Wild Swimming: For the adrenaline junkie, Local Beat provides exciting cliff jumping and wild swimming opportunities, and the tale-spinning founder, Mack, takes groups to hidden swimming spots to chill, sponsored by local folklore, making for an extremely unique glimpse into Goa’s natural beauty.

Cycling and E-Biking: Cycling through the Goan countryside during the monsoon is an absolute delight. Tour companies such as Cycling Zens and B
Cycle through emerald rice fields, picturesque meadows and tranquil rivers to get a feel of the countryside. Or, rent a bicycle or e-bike and do it on your own.

Birding with Uday Mandrekar: If the weather is clear, then birdwatching should be on your to-do list. Meet Uday Mandrekar, better known as the ‘Birdman of Chorao,’ who takes visitors on a guided tour through the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Whether you are an avid birdwatcher or an amateur, an outing with Uday is always great fun.

Mangrove Kayaking: Another outstanding experience is kayaking through the mangrove forests of Goa. Konkan Explorers organizes monsoon kayaking trips along the Chapora River and other backwaters that let you explore serene beauty in the midst of the mangrove forests.

Recommended Accommodations for Monsoon Travel
Lamrin Ucassaim, Moira: This masterfully restored 18th-century Goan-Portuguese house invites an envious chance to stay amidst the splendor of monsoons and rich heritage of Goa. Located in the quaint village of Moira, it is the ultimate stay during the rainy season.

The Island Sanctuary, Chorao: On an island off Charao’s coast is the calm and peaceful retreat furnished with beautiful cycling routes. It makes for a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern Goa.

Vivenda Rebelo, Panjim: Welcome to a whiff of Portuguese colonial charisma at this 100-year-old mansion in Panjim’s Latin Quarter. This ancient property transports you back into Goa’s colonial history and the cozy haven from the rain.

Turia Villa, Canacona, Goa: And this reconstructed Goan home at Canacona, designed by Achitect Sandesh Prabhu, speaks volumes for the spirit of slow travel – the old courtyard and the hammocks at Turia Villa make it a place to chill out and relax and soak the Monsoon.

More Monsoon Highlights
Explore Unknown Routes: The best way to experience the beauty of Goa’s monsoon has to be by way of exploring its unknown routes. Hop on to a bike and ride down small by-lanes; you will come across quite a good number of silent coconut-lined trails, serene backwaters, and meadows of colorful wildflowers.