8 Things to Do in Goa in Monsoon

Goa, often known for its sunny beaches and vibrant nightlife, transforms into a lush paradise during the monsoon season. From June to September, the rain-kissed landscapes, misty hills, and roaring waterfalls create a magical experience unlike any other. While beach activities may be limited, Goa offers plenty of unique adventures, cultural experiences, and serene escapes during this season. Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or someone looking for a relaxing retreat, the monsoon in Goa has something special for you. 

Here are eight exciting things to do in Goa during the rainy season.

1. Explore Big Foot Museum
2. River Cruises
3. Museums and Art Galleries
4. Spice Plantation Tours
5. Waterfall Hiking
6. Trekking at Udaan Dongor
7. Go Rafting in the Mhadei River
8. Enjoy the Monsoon Festivals

Why Visit Goa in Monsoon?

Visiting Goa in the monsoon (June to September) offers a completely different experience from its usual sunny and crowded vibe. The rains bring out Goa’s lush greenery, misty landscapes, and serene beaches, making it an ideal time for a peaceful getaway. 

Here’s why you should consider visiting Goa during the monsoon:

• Fewer Crowds & Budget-Friendly Travel – With fewer tourists, you can enjoy Goa’s beauty in tranquillity, and accommodations, flights, and activities come at discounted rates.
• Lush Greenery & Waterfalls – The Western Ghats and Goa’s countryside come alive with vibrant green landscapes, full-flowing rivers, and stunning waterfalls like Dudhsagar.
• Romantic & Refreshing Weather – The cool breeze, light drizzles, and overcast skies make for a perfect romantic or relaxing vacation.
• Adventure & Unique Experiences – Enjoy monsoon treks, spice plantation tours, river cruises, and the thrill of white-water rafting in the Mhadei River.
• Cultural Festivities – Experience traditional Goan festivals like Sao Joao (June), where locals celebrate with boat races and lively festivities.

If you love nature, adventure, and a peaceful ambience, Goa in the monsoon is a hidden gem waiting to be explored! 

Explore Big Foot Museum

Nestled in the quaint village of Loutolim, South Goa, Big Foot Museum is a fascinating open-air museum that offers a glimpse into Goa’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. Also known as Ancestral Goa, this museum beautifully recreates a traditional Goan village, complete with life-sized sculptures, ancient homes, and depictions of local customs. It is home to Goa’s largest laterite sculpture, a 14-foot-long footprint believed to be of a humble saint. A visit to Big Foot Museum takes you back in time, showcasing Goa’s folklore, rural lifestyle, and craftsmanship, making it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts. 

River Cruises

Goa’s river cruises offer a unique way to explore the state’s serene waterways while enjoying breathtaking views, live entertainment, and delicious Goan cuisine. Whether it's a sunset cruise, dinner cruise, or backwater ride, these cruises provide a perfect mix of relaxation and cultural immersion. Popular river cruises operate on the Mandovi River, offering stunning views of Panaji’s skyline, illuminated bridges, and mangrove forests. For a more immersive experience, backwater cruises through Goa’s lush interiors let you witness vibrant birdlife and traditional Goan villages. Ideal for couples, families, and adventure seekers, a river cruise in Goa is a delightful way to soak in its beauty from a different perspective.

Museums and Art Galleries

Beyond its beaches and nightlife, Goa boasts a rich artistic and historical heritage, showcased in its fascinating museums and art galleries. From ancient artefacts to contemporary art, these cultural hubs provide a deeper insight into Goa’s history, traditions, and creative expressions.

• Goa State Museum – Located in Panaji, this museum houses artefacts, sculptures, coins, and paintings depicting Goa’s past.
• Museum of Christian Art – Showcasing exquisite Indo-Portuguese Christian artefacts, this museum is a must-visit for history lovers.
• Ancestral Goa (Big Foot Museum) – An open-air museum in Loutolim that recreates a traditional Goan village and rural lifestyle.
• Houses of Goa Museum – Designed like a ship, this museum in Bardez highlights Goa’s unique Portuguese-influenced architecture.
• Mario Miranda Gallery – A tribute to the legendary Goan cartoonist, featuring his humorous and vibrant artworks.
• Sunaparanta – Goa Centre for the Arts – A contemporary art gallery in Panaji that hosts exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events.

Whether you're an art enthusiast, history buff, or curious traveller, Goa’s museums and galleries offer a fascinating journey into its rich and diverse culture.

Spice Plantation Tours

Goa’s spice plantations offer a refreshing escape into nature, where visitors can explore lush green estates, learn about exotic spices, and experience Goa’s rich agricultural heritage. Located mostly in Ponda and its surrounding areas, these plantations grow spices like cardamom, pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves. A guided tour takes you through the plantations, explaining the cultivation, medicinal uses, and culinary importance of various spices. Visitors can also enjoy a traditional Goan meal cooked with fresh farm ingredients and sometimes even indulge in an elephant ride or spice-infused tea tasting. Popular plantations include Sahakari Spice Farm, Savoi Plantation, and Pascoal Spice Village. Perfect for nature lovers and food enthusiasts, a spice plantation tour in Goa is a sensory delight, offering an authentic and educational experience away from the beaches!

Waterfall Hiking

Goa is not just about beaches; it is also home to some stunning waterfalls hidden amidst lush forests, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Waterfall hiking in Goa takes you through scenic trails, dense jungles, and rocky terrains, leading to breathtaking cascades surrounded by untouched wilderness.

Some of the most popular waterfall hikes include:

• Dudhsagar Waterfalls – Goa’s most famous waterfall, a four-tiered marvel resembling a milky stream, accessible via a thrilling trek or jeep safari through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Tambdi Surla Waterfall – A scenic trek through dense forests near the historic Mahadev Temple, offering a serene and less-crowded experience.
• Netravali Waterfalls – Located in the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, this moderate hike takes you through rich biodiversity and offers mesmerising views of the falls.
• Hivrem Waterfalls – A hidden gem near Valpoi, reached after a challenging yet rewarding trek through forests and hilly terrain.

Hiking to these waterfalls not only offers adventure and stunning views but also a chance to witness Goa’s diverse flora and fauna. Ideal for adventure lovers, these treks provide a refreshing break from the usual tourist trails!

Trekking at Udaan Dongor

Udaan Dongor, one of Goa’s lesser-known trekking spots, offers an exciting adventure for nature lovers and trekkers. Located in the Sattari region of North Goa, this hill stands tall at 300 meters, providing a moderate yet thrilling trek through lush forests, rocky terrains, and scenic landscapes.

The trail takes you through dense vegetation, rich wildlife, and panoramic viewpoints, making it a perfect escape from the usual tourist spots. As you reach the top, you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and the surrounding countryside. The trek is best enjoyed during the monsoon and post-monsoon months (June to November) when the greenery is at its peak. Ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers, Udaan Dongor Trek is a hidden treasure for those seeking adventure, tranquillity, and a deep connection with nature in Goa!

Go Rafting in the Mhadei River

For adventure seekers, white-water rafting in the Mhadei River is one of the most thrilling experiences in Goa. Located in the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, this river offers an exciting rafting course with rapids ranging from Grade II to III, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced rafters. The rafting route stretches for about 10 km, taking you through lush forests, rocky landscapes, and gushing waters, providing an adrenaline rush like no other. The best time for rafting is during the monsoon (June to September) when the river is at its fullest, creating strong currents and powerful rapids.

Guided by professional instructors, Mhadei River rafting is a must-try adventure for those looking to experience Goa’s wild side beyond the beaches. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature enthusiast, this exhilarating activity promises an unforgettable experience!

Enjoy the Monsoon Festivals

Goa’s monsoon season isn’t just about lush landscapes and scenic beauty. It’s also a time for vibrant local festivals that showcase the state’s rich traditions, music, and joyful spirit. These festivals offer a unique glimpse into Goa’s culture and are celebrated with music, dance, boat races, and traditional rituals.

• Sao Joao (June 24th) – One of Goa’s most famous monsoon festivals, celebrated with frenzied jumping into wells, vibrant parades, and lively music to honour St. John the Baptist.
• Ponsachem Fest (June) – A celebration of the jackfruit harvest, featuring local delicacies, traditional performances, and a lively market.
• Chikal Kalo (June) – A fun-filled mud festival held in Marcel, where people play in the mud, reenacting Krishna’s childhood games.
• Bonderam Festival (August, Divar Island) – A lively festival with colourful processions, mock battles, and folk music, resembling Goa’s past Portuguese influences.

These monsoon festivals bring Goa alive with cultural richness, community bonding, and joyous celebrations, making them a must-experience for visitors seeking something beyond the usual tourist attractions!

How to reach Goa

Goa is well-connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible for travellers. Here are the different ways to reach Goa:

• By Air – The fastest way to reach Goa is by flight. Manohar International Airport (North Goa) and Dabolim Airport (South Goa) receive domestic and international flights from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai.
• By Train – Goa has major railway stations like Madgaon and Vasco da Gama, well-connected to cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Scenic train journeys offer breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.
• By Road – Goa is accessible via national highways from nearby states. You can drive or take state-run or private buses from Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad for a scenic road trip.
• By Sea – A unique way to reach Goa is via cruise ships from Mumbai, offering a scenic and leisurely travel experience.

Where to stay in Goa

Club Mahindra Varca Resort in Goa is a beautiful beachfront retreat offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and a relaxing stay. Surrounded by swaying palm trees and white sandy beaches, this resort in Goa provides modern amenities, spacious rooms, and warm hospitality. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, from swimming and spa treatments to cultural experiences and Goan cuisine. Whether travelling with family or friends, it’s the perfect place to unwind and create memorable holiday moments.

A Club Mahindra Membership offers access to 140+ Club Mahindra resorts across India and worldwide, ensuring unforgettable vacations for every traveller. Members can enjoy premium stays, curated experiences, and family-friendly activities at stunning destinations. The membership provides flexible holiday options, allowing you to explore beaches, mountains, forests, and international getaways with ease. With benefits like priority bookings and exclusive experiences, it makes vacations seamless and stress-free. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, a Club Mahindra Membership enhances every holiday experience.

Goa in the monsoon transforms into a lush and serene paradise, offering a unique experience beyond its usual beach charm. With fewer crowds and budget-friendly options, it's the perfect time for a peaceful getaway. The rains bring a refreshing ambience, making every moment more magical. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this season reveals a hidden side of Goa. Embrace the beauty of the rains and create unforgettable memories!