The onset of Monsoon in the Konkan region is mid July to mid September. The rains are intense, unrelenting, heavy, stormy, disrupting normal life many times. Power failure, risky and choppy waters of the Arabian Sea, slippery cliffs, wet sand, low visibility and risk of driving become extremely likely. Hence the vacation season of Goa is the school summer holidays and the winter months, specially the Christmas and New Year period. The summers are not ideal to holiday there because of extremely high temperatures while the happening season is post - monsoon till the New Year. However, there is a group of visitors / travellers who prefer the monsoons in Goa due to a variety of reasons which are as follows.
Why Go to Goa In The Off Season - Monsoon ?
Love of water, waterfalls and rain.
Negligible traffic at all tourist points, hotels, restaurants, clubs etc.
Cheaper accommodation, at almost 50 % off.
Cheaper air fares with great offers and discounts.
Better service from the hospitality industry as they have lesser guests to attend.
Enjoy the konkan monsoon at its full glory.
Empty beaches to walk, stroll, take in the beauty of the Arabian Sea and perfect for clicking pictures.
All services at much reduced prices be it cabs, food, drinks, club tickets etc.
Peace and quiet for those who prefer to enjoy nature with a select few loved ones.
Number of events are arranged in these monsoon months.
Explore the quaint konkani villages and try out the local cuisine.
Visit the majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
Visit the Spice Gardens, buy fresh spices and oils.
Go River Rafting, Wildlife Safari Tours, Long Drive in the Ghats, Nature walks and treks.
Luxury Cruise trip in the Mando river.
Participate in many local Goan festivals and events.
Lush Konkan greenery as far as the eye can see.
Bonfires on the empty beaches.
Where To Stay according to the location of the Beaches
North Goa Beaches
Baga, Calangute, Candolim, Anjuna, Vagator, and Ashwem.
South Goa Beaches
Palolem, Colva, Cavelossim, Benaulim, and Agonda.
North Goa has more activity, night life, crowd and hotels, shacks open all year round.
South Goa is very quiet, full of peace and tranquility
Monsoon Festivals Of Goa
13 June -Feast of St. Anthony
24 June - Sao Joao Feast of St. John the Baptist
Beach Side Party In June,
2nd or 3rd week of July -Chikhal Kalo
29 June Feast of Saint Peter and Paul - The locals build rafts and sail on Goa rivers, singing and playing songs.
29 th July - Touxeachem Fest, Santana Church or the Church of St Anne
15 August - Patolleanchem Feast organised by The Socorro Socio-Art and Cultural Association
20 August - World Goa Day
Last Saturday of August - Bonderam Festival
Festivals in Goa are full of life, exuberance, vibrant colours, dance, music, parades, fancy dress get ups, traditional floats, live music performances, authentic Goan cuisine, Boating, exhibitions.
Many night clubs, hotels, eateries and beaches remain closed due to it being the Off - Season.
Not many water and adventure sports are possible due to the risk factor.
Less crowds and fun activities that are available during peak season times.
Disruption in life due to thunderstorms.
Swimming and spending time on the beach might not be possible due to the violent, choppy waters of the Arabian Sea.
Limited choice in accommodation and food choices.
Stormy rains might impact going outdoors and limit the guest to stay safe and secure indoors.
As with everything in life, a trip to Goa in the monsoons might be full of pros and cons and the adventurous travel has to decide which side of the balance is heavier and plan accordingly.
Images - Courtesy www.istockphoto.com
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