Best time to visit in

Goa

Weather & Temperature

Hot to very humid. Daytime 27–35°C, nights 24–28°C. UV index is high; sea ~28–29°C. Little rain in April–May; pre-monsoon showers late May; southwest monsoon typically arrives in June with frequent heavy showers and gusty winds. Humidity 70–85%.

What to Expect

Fewer crowds and better hotel deals than winter. Beach shacks and night markets run through May; some close as June rains intensify. Water sports operate until seas turn rough (often early June). Midday heat can be oppressive; mornings and evenings are pleasant.

Key Events & Festivals

• Igitun Chalne (Fire-walking festival, May)
• Sao Joao – Feast of St John (late June)
• Easter celebrations (if in April)

Recommended Activities

• Early-morning beach walks and sea dips (April–May; heed flags)
• Backwater kayaking and sunset cruises on the Mandovi
• SCUBA/snorkeling and island trips until seas get rough
• Fontainhas heritage walk and Latin Quarter cafés
• Spice plantation and feni distillery tours
• Wildlife sanctuaries (Bhagwan Mahavir/Mollem) and birding

Travel Tips

• Plan outdoor time for early mornings/evenings; hydrate and use high-SPF sunscreen.
• Choose AC stays; check for reliable power backup.
• By June, carry a light rain jacket/umbrella and waterproof footwear.
• Confirm if water sports are operating; many operators suspend activities once monsoon sets in.
• Use UPI/contactless payments widely accepted in Goa.
• Follow lifeguard flags; currents strengthen around the monsoon onset.

Weather & Temperature

Core monsoon. Frequent heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong onshore winds. Temperatures 24–30°C with very high humidity (85–95%). Seas are rough; tidal surges possible. Cloudy skies dominate; short sunny breaks occur between showers.

What to Expect

Lush green landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and very light tourist crowds. Many beach shacks and most motorized water sports are shut; some inland cafés and boutique stays remain open. Great value on stays, but expect occasional travel delays and patchy road conditions.

Key Events & Festivals

• Bonderam Festival, Divar Island (August)
• Ganesh Chaturthi/Chavath (Aug–Sep)
• Chikal Kalo – traditional mud festival (July)

Recommended Activities

• Guided monsoon treks in the Western Ghats (with permits/safety gear)
• Spice plantation tours and cooking classes
• Backwater kayaking when river conditions are deemed safe by operators
• Museum, church, and gallery hopping in Panaji/Old Goa
• Ayurveda/yoga retreats and spa days
• Monsoon photography and café-hopping

Travel Tips

• Carry a quality rain jacket, quick-dry layers, and waterproof covers for electronics.
• Expect transport delays; keep buffer time between connections.
• Do not swim in the sea; obey red flags and lifeguard instructions.
• Check current access rules for Dudhsagar and protected areas; operations vary with rainfall.
• Footwear with good grip helps on slick steps and trails; carry mosquito repellent.
• Pick accommodations with on-site dining or nearby eateries in case of heavy downpours.

Weather & Temperature

Best beach weather. October can be humid with retreating showers; November–February are dry and sunny with pleasant breeze. Days 24–32°C; nights 18–24°C (coolest in Dec–Jan). March warms up to ~34°C by day. Humidity 55–75%; seas generally calm.

What to Expect

Full swing season: most beach shacks open, water sports run, nightlife is vibrant. Highest prices and crowds around Christmas–New Year and popular long weekends. Advance bookings are essential for top stays and restaurants.

Key Events & Festivals

• International Film Festival of India (November)
• Diwali (Oct/Nov, date varies)
• Feast of St Francis Xavier, Old Goa (Dec 3)
• Sunburn Festival, Vagator (late December, dates vary)
• Christmas (Dec 25) and New Year’s Eve (Dec 31)
• Goa Carnival (Feb, dates vary)
• Shigmo Spring Festival (March)

Recommended Activities

• Beach days with parasailing, jet-skiing, kayaking, and banana boat rides
• SCUBA diving/snorkeling and Grande Island boat trips (fair-sea days)
• Sunset cruises on the Mandovi and backwater SUP/kayak
• Fontainhas heritage walk, Reis Magos/Aguada forts, and Old Goa churches
• Anjuna/Arpora night markets and Mapusa market runs
• Birding at Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (Dec–Feb)
• Yoga classes and cycling through village backroads

Travel Tips

• Book flights/hotels well in advance—especially for Dec 20–Jan 5.
• Reserve top restaurants and beach clubs for holiday weeks; expect surge pricing.
• Carry a light layer for cooler evenings in Dec–Jan and bring reef-safe sunscreen.
• Use licensed water-sports operators; check sea conditions daily and heed flags.
• Traffic and parking get busy—consider taxis, app cabs, or scooters (helmet mandatory).
• UPI is widely accepted; carry some cash for markets and small shacks.
• Respect local noise and beach cleanliness norms; avoid single-use plastic.