Best Time to Visit Goa: Events, Season & Best Packages

The beautiful state, of Goa, has a vast culture that is visible thoughts its festivals and events that takes place throughout the year. It is a perfect place for a destination wedding in India. The sprawling paradise, as Goa is known amongst tourists, has Karnataka in the east and Mumbai in the west, which makes it one of the ideal tourist places for North and south India. It boasts a number of beaches that are different from one another, and popular for water activities. Want to know which month is best to visit Goa? Well, the best time to visit Goa is during the winter –November to March, the temperature is quite pleasant during winters, and one can explore the entire city without any hassle.

Best Time to Visit Goa in 2023

Best Month to Visit Goa	Min/Max Temperature	Goa Season Time
March-May	25-35 °C	Hot and Sunny days
June – August	24-30°C	Slightly cooler  climate with frequent rain
November- March	21 to 32°C	Cool and pleasant climate

1. Peak Season- Peak Season is characterized as the season during which tourism in the respective city is active, and prices are also highest. The peak season in Goa is from November to March.

2. Shoulder Season- The shoulder time is the time that falls between peak and off-peak time. The shoulder time for Goa is from April to October.

3. Off-Season – Off-season or low season is the season when tourism at a particular place is low. The low season to visit Goa is from May to September.

Best Time to Visit Goa with Family and Friends

Summer Season in Goa (March to May)

While Summer is not considered to be the right time to visit Goa as the temperature during this time shoots from 25°C to 35°C. However, mornings and evenings are a bit relieved as the temperature is not on the top during morning and evening. Moreover, this is an ideal time to soak in the sun’s rays and take sunbathe. During summers, you can opt for water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing.

Since this time is less touristy, thus it is the best time for Goa for those people who are looking for affordable packages.

During summer, Festivals like Shigmo Festival and Sao Jao festival are celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm. Summers in Goa is the best time for shopping in the markets as the crowd is less.

Tips to travel to Goa in Summers– Since summers are too hot, make sure you carry comfortable cotton clothes. And stay hydrated while sipping on water, coconut water, and juices. Also, if you want to know the best time to visit Goa for water sports activities then opt for early mornings and evenings.

Monsoon in Goa (Mid-June to August)

During the Monsoon, the temperature varies from 24°C and 30°C. The rainy season in Goa is a treat for all nature lovers. The Monsoon there is humid during the day, and the nights are cold and pleasant, which makes it the best season for Goa for party animals.

One of the main highlights of this season is Patolleanchem Feast. Patollea is a sweet dish that is made up of coconut, rice, and Jaggery. Besides this, another festival celebrated during the Monsoon season is Bonderam which takes place on Diva Island, which is 12 kilometers away from Panjim.

During Monsoon Goa is no less than a paradise as you can see different shares of greens during this season of the year. Monsoon is the best season to visit Goa for people who love nature. To see the magic of the Monsoon, tourists can head to Dudhsagar Waterfalls.

Handy Tips to Visit Goa in Monsoon- Do carry a windcheater or light jacket at night could be colder during the Monsoon season. Since this is not the best season for Goa; thus, you will get a massive discount on hotels.

Winter Season in Goa (Mid November – March)

Winter season is one of the best times to visit Goa as the temperature during this season is 21 to 32°C, which is beloved to be pleasant and cold. This season is perfect for all types of adventurous and sports activities. This is the reason why Goa is crowded during the winter season. Winters in Goa call for festivals like Goa Carnival and Christmas celebrations. Since the temperature is cool, thus you would be able to visit most of the places in Goa, including North and South Goa.

Places to Visit in Goa with Family or Friends:

Goa is divided into two parts that are South Goa and North Goa. While North Goa is a more touristy place than South Goa. However, if you are going for a honeymoon, South Goa would be the best place as it does not have much of a crowd. Here we have listed some of the places that one must visit in Goa.

1. Baga Beach

Baga Beach is one of the famous beaches in Goa. This mesmerizing destination is ideal for water sports activities. One can relish Goan delicacies and party post-sunset. The nearest airport to Baga Beach is Dabolim.

Timings- 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.

2. Calangute Beach

Also known as the Queen of Beaches, Calangute Beach is the largest beach in Goa. The beach stretches to the Northeastern part of Panaji. The place is no less than a party hub. Besides this, one can go for various sports activities at Calangute beach. The beach is also known for sunbathing.  It is located in North Goa. It is also one of the ideal pre-wedding destination places in India.

3. Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Nestled between Karnataka and Goa border is the picturesque -Dudhsagar Waterfalls, which means a sea of water. Dudhsagar Waterfalls are located near the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and are counted among India’s highest waterfalls. The lush greenery surrounds the mesmerizing waterfall; it offers an unmatched scenic view that attracts a large number of tourists each year.

4. Chapora Fort

Located on Vagator beach, Chapora fort is one of the most mesmerizing forts in India. The fort is made out of red brakes, making it stand out amongst the other forts. The noteworthy feature of the fort is its underground tunnels. However, the fort is not in the best condition, but still, thousands of tourists visit. The fort rises above the Chapora River, which makes it a picturesque place.

5. Basilica of Bom Jesus

This mesmerizing church has huge significance amongst Christians. It boasts 16^th-century architecture.  Basilica of Bom Jesus is listed as a World Heritage site. Its architecture has white marble along with mesmeric friezes. It is operational between 9:00 am to 6:30 pm.

6. Fort Aguada

Constructed in the 16^th Century, Aguada Fort is divided into two parts. The upper part functions as a watering station. On the other hand, the lower part of the fort acted as safe berth ships of Portuguese. It was the most prized fort of the Portuguese. It offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and Sinquerim Beach.

7. Dona Paula

Dona Paula is a village and home to institutes, universities, hotels, and luxury resorts. The village also boasts a beach of the same name that attracts more than thousands of visitors. The rock of the sea at Dona Paula gives a spectacular view of the place.

8. Deltin Royale Casino

Goa is known for its casinos. It has an array of casinos that would offer you a game-changing experience. Deltin Royale provides live entertainment and the best of the cuisines. It is one of the best Casinos in Goa.

9. Tito’s Goa

It is the most famous and popular Night Clubs in India. It is located around Baga beach. Tito’s was one of the first Discos in Goa. It has three sections that are Café Mambo, Bollywood Discotheque, and club Tito’s. It also has a concert place. Tito’s Goa is also known for its Saturday parties.

Upcoming Festivals in Goa

Goa is not only a party state; it is a blend of different cultures and festivities. You can attend these festivities and can have an exceptional experience. Here, we have listed the various Goa festivals and the best month to visit Goa to attend these festivals.

1. Sunburn Festival

The month of the Festival: In December for 3 days

Location: Calangute Beach

The Sunburn festival is a perfect event for all the people out there who have an interest in music. The festival takes place for three days. It is also one of the most famous festivals of Goa that attracts tourists from around the globe.

2. Goa Carnival

Date: 22nd February to 25th February 2020

Location: Vasco Da Gama, Panjim, Mapusa,

It is one of Goa’s most happening festivals, which takes place in February, making it one of the best times to visit Goa. The streets of Goa are beautified with vibrant colors. The festival boasts foot-tapping music, people in colorful costumes, and spell-bound activities.

3. Goa Food and Cultural Festival

Month- February

Location- Goa Beaches

Do you wish to try different recipes of Goan cuisine? Well, if you want to then, the best time to visit Goa for you is during Goa food and cultural festival. Hoteliers from around the globe participate in the festival.

4. Goa Mango festival

Month- Summers

Location-Panaji

During summers, the variety of mangoes that are grown in Goa is put on display. The festival embraces many activities like mango cravings. Also, farmers showcase new techniques and ways of farming.

5. Sao Joao Festival

Month: June

Location: Throughout Goa

The festival calls for a massive celebration in the state. People are dressed up in feathers and leaves and carry Fenny. The festival is known for its great music and dance activities.

6. Christmas Festival

Month: December

Location: Across Goa

Christmas is the main festival that is celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm in Goa. All the markets of Goa are decked with Christmas trees, and trinkets. The USP of this festival is midnight masses, delicious cakes, and puddings prepared during the festival.

7. New Year Fiesta

Month: December

Location: Throughout Goa

Christmas festivities are extended with the new year, and the entire state celebrates the New year. The entire state is embellished. This is one of the vibrant beach festivals of Goa. The major attraction of the festival is the Euphoric church bells.

Adventure Activities to Do in Goa

Goa is known for its beaches and thrilling activities that are available in most of the seasons sans. People from across the country visit Goa, especially for water activities. Here we have listed some of the water activities that you must do during your trip to Goa.

1. Trekking

One of the most visited Trekking spots in Goa is Dudhsagar Falls. You can also consider the Ocean trek Neuti, from where you can look at the Arabian Sea and high hills around Goa. Another route for trekking in Goa is Keri to Arambol Beach.

2. Scuba Diving

For Scuba diving, you need not be a swimmer; you can dive into the Arabian sea and enjoy the activity.

3. Rafting

Goa is also one of the best rafting destinations in India. Taleri and Mehdi rivers are ideal for rafting. They offer grade 3+ rapids.

4. Hot Air Ballooning

This activity is available at most beaches. Through hot air ballooning, one can have a complete look at Goa from a distance.

5. Kayaking

In recent years, Kayaking has received immense popularity. You can indulge in this activity at Bambolim beach, from where you can paddle all the way to villages around.

6. Parasailing

Parasailing is one of the most favorite activities. Most of the beaches in Goa offer parasails. The best time for this activity is the summer.

How to Visit Goa?

One can visit Goa from any part of the world by train, flight, bus, and cab.

• Air Flights – Dabolim Airport is the only airport in Goa. It is 4 kilometers away from Vasco De Gama city, 30 km from Panji, and 23 kilometers away from Margao.
• Train-Goa has two major railway stations that are Vasco-Da-Gama and Margao.
• Bus – Tourists can also visit Goa by bus. Each city in Goa has its bus stands.
• Cabs- You can also book a taxi and visit Goa

Best Packages to Visit Goa

1. Goa Family Getaway

Price: Rs 34,200

Nights: 3

Services: Meals, Accommodation, Transfer, Sightseeing

2. Glimpse of Goa

Price: Rs 12,500

Nights: 2 nights

Services: Meals, Accommodation, Transfer, Sightseeing

3. Goa Super Saver with Flight

Price: Rs 10,500

Nights: 3 nights

Services: Meals, Flights, Accommodation, Transfer, Sightseeing

Conclusion:

There would be hardly any who does not have Goa on his list of places to visit. The state is home to numerous breaches that offer you peace and tranquillity. Goa is also a party hub, famous for its carnival and festivals. While the state enjoys three primary weather seasons: summers, Monsoon, and winters, the best time to visit Goa with family is throughout the year, depending on each one preference’s and activities they wish to do.