Goa, India’s most popular hippie destination, is one of the loveliest beach vacation spots in the world. Hoards of travellers, from India and abroad, flock to Goa in the summer to swim, stretch, and relax in the sunshine. A lesser known fact is that this little coastal state gets even better in the monsoon. Picture it- clean and empty beaches, lush green surroundings, and roaring waterfalls. It’s beautiful! We tell you exactly why you should head over there now.
1. A Relieved Bank Account
Flight tickets for a round trip to Goa in the monsoon season (June to August) will cost you almost half of what they would in the peak season. Alternatively, a train journey to Goa can be worth your while (even though it may take a lot of time) because you will get to view beautiful rain-soaked scenes from your window. Even accommodation in Goa is cheaper in the rainy season since it is the supposedly ‘off season’ and rates fall. Additionally, you can enjoy water sports like jet skiing and paragliding at slashed prices. Travel in luxury, live comfortably, and experience everything ‘Goan’ without burning a hole in your pocket.
2. Solitude and Peace
If there is one thing people do not like about Goa, it is the maddening crowds that seem to be there all the time. But guess what? During the monsoons, even the most popular beaches are pretty empty and the less visited ones are completely deserted. You can actually see and experience the pure beauty of the ocean, unhindered by the presence of a huge mass of people. Besides, it’s a brilliant opportunity to click some super aesthetic photographs!
3. Glorious Waterfalls
Located in the Mollem National Park, the Dudhsagar Falls flow in full glory in the monsoons. An astounding height of 301 metres makes the waterfall a sight to behold. On the journey to the falls, you will be surrounded by lush green foliage; the trek to the falls is an experience in itself. The gentle rainfall, cloudy sky, and cool wind will make this an even more special and memorable visit.
4. Local Culture In Its Element
A festival unique to Goa is the Sao Joao Festival, also known as the Fertility Feast of Saint John the Baptist, which happens to fall in the monsoon season around late June. It is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm and travellers from many parts of the world come just to witness it. The village men jump into wells to retrieve bottles of the local liquor known as Feni.
The feasts of Saint Paul and Peter are some other festivals that are celebrated in late June. During these events, people sing and dance on rafts in the river. There is a sizeable Hindu population too, and the Ganesh Chathurti festival is celebrated with fervour. In addition, the Bonderam festival is celebrated in the Divar Islands in August with parades, local bands, delicacies, and lots of colour.
5. Wild, Wild Goa!
The wildlife sanctuaries of Goa cannot be enjoyed as well in any other season as in the monsoons. The green trees and plants, glistening with raindrops, make for a magnificent sight. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary, Mollem National Park, and Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the famous national parks in Goa.
The spice plantations, which are in full bloom in the period between June and August, are a must-visit. A drive through the gorgeous valley will take you to the Savoi spice plantation. Road trip, anyone?
A different magic is in the air during the monsoons in Goa. It is gentle, and yet it is more alive. So what are you waiting for? We are heading to the beach this August before the storms leave, and we would love to have you on board!
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