Goa has been such a craze among Indian youngsters and expat hippies alike. No wonder, it has got a lot of vibrant and clean beaches, appealing crowd, and easy-on-pocket drinks making it one of the best places to visit in India. And then, there exists this cliché that every one of us hears more often – “Visiting Goa in monsoons is a waste”. And I am not sure how many people have actually visited Goa in monsoons before saying this. I believe it’s a word of mouth.
I recently solo backpacked to Goa during monsoons and I couldn’t stop myself from sharing some of the reasons to visit this beautiful place at this time.
Also READ: Why to travel solo?
It may not be the best time to visit Goa but here are a few reasons why you should try it:
1. Good bye to the suntanned skin and stay energetic!
We all know that the usually sultry weather and the tanning heat drain most of our energy when we travel in Goa during daytime. Why not try monsoons instead to get rid of most of this part? It will be differently pleasant.
2. Experience bliss by driving through the lush green windy ghats.
Most of us don’t know that Goa has got a really good mountain side rather than only beaches. Like any other ghats you would love to drive along, Goa too has to offer many wonderful places along the beautiful and majestic Western Ghats ranges, which are at their best in monsoons. Anmod, Chorla, and Amboli ghats are a few to list out.
3. Chapora. Like never before.
Experience Chapora fort distinctly. Sit on the bordering walls of the Chapora fort facing the majestic Arabian sea and pray for the rains to happen. Your eyes will struggle to remain open by the splash of sweet water on your face and you will be drenched every inch. The beautiful sight will make you feel like all the seas are merging together till the horizon and you are a part of it. It’s different.
4. Mountain trek, beach trek, jungle trek. Name it!
Monsoon is the best time to trek along the many scenic destinations at Goa. Mountain Trek from Dudhsagar falls, Beach Trek from Keri to Arambol or any other Jungle Trek in wildlife sanctuaries can make your day. And the good news is, unlike any other wildlife sanctuaries in India which are closed during monsoons, the ones at Goa are open throughout the year. Cheers!
5. Stay lavishly in less than half the costs. Travel cheaper!
Believe me, this is true. When I came here in monsoons, even some of the 5-star resorts were already offering up to 80% discount on stay. Who would like to miss this golden opportunity to stay at lavish resorts at this cheap price? Not only the resorts but most of the standard hotels, backpackers’ hostels and lodges have their prices cut during this season and you cannot ask for any cheaper rates. If you are solo backpacking, check out Pappi Chulo near Vagator beach.
Not only this. The flight tickets during this period will be the best deal you can get!
6. Learn about local spices and herbs at spice plantations in Goa
India is popular for producing a variety of spices and Goa is no different. The colorful and fragrant spices, however attractive they might look at the shops, will be amazing to see in their natural habitats and monsoons enhance the beauty of this place. Vanilla (Yes, you read it right! Our favorite flavor!), cardamom, saffron, and nutmeg are some of the amazing spices you will get to learn about. Most of the spice plantations are located near Ponda village. So get ready to enter the pollution-free zone and admire the nature. Also, ditch the beer and try local cashew Feni and toddy palm Feni.
Goa has got a rich history. You can plan a visit to other forts apart from Chapora. Cabo De Rama, Aguada and Corjuem Reis Mogos are a few to enlist. Apart from forts, Goa houses a number of beautiful churches like St. Francis of Assisi, St. Augustine and Se Cathedral. Delve deeper into the immaculate Portuguese architecture at these places.
8. Want to try a different water sport? Row your own kayak
No water sports? Okay, no worries. If you happen to be at Palolem beach in South Goa, while walking towards the sunset point, you will observe a stretch of still water where you can do Kayaking. Grab a kayak on rent from a local shop nearby and row your way to the middle of the sea. And if it rains, it will be an adventure. Just ask the locals there about any risks, make sure you wear safety gear and don’t go too far. (Beginners, please be a spectator. Don’t try it!)
9. Discover yourself, party hard and stay green
Lastly, I must say, in monsoons, when there is lesser crowd, you can spend some time with yourself. The beaches will be all yours and their beauty will be all different. Parties will still be on at popular places like Curlies, Shiva’s and Tito’s and may be with happy hours extended. Drinks will still be tax-free and seafood will be fresh and at its best. Our clean and green Goa will be cleaner and greener.
Also, if you want to try an alternative to Goa, you can check out my blog on Gokarna. It’s a peaceful place with splendid beaches and an admirable scope for trekking and camping.
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