As the southwest monsoon sets in gradually, it certainly marks the start of June in Goa. It has long been recognised as a lean period for seafood and tourism in the state. On one side, it’s a perfect time for the “Susegaad” life in Goa where you can sit in peace and enjoy a cup of tea under heavy downpour. And on the other hand, it is also that time of the year when adrenaline junkies go on waterfall treks and river rappelling.
Temperatures are at an all time low and outdoor partying is at its minimum. Life tends to be a little dull like the grey skies, but hey ! Don’t let that ruin your day. Goa is what it is and it’s never a bad time to be here <3
Here’s some hands-on information that will help you make the most out of your June in Goa:
Goa’s weather in June
Above photo by: Sunaira Peris
While the long hot summer comes to an end as the month of June elapses, the parched Earth cools down with the heavy downpour that follows. It is said that June brings out an altogether different side to Goa. The statement couldn’t have been truer. With lush greenery blooming up as far as the eye can see, the monsoons bring out the unseen views of Goa that are usually absent during the summers. The springs become active and the waterfalls start gushing with stronger currents of water. While we encourage you to explore Goa during monsoons, we would also like to advise you to spend your time indoors on those days when strong winds & heavy rains take over the state. Overall, there’s just something else about experiencing monsoons in Goa and the end of June is the best time for it.
June, Goa & Your wallet! There couldn’t have been a better match
Trust us when we say this, your wallet will be the happiest if you plan on spending June in Goa. With a great drop in tourists comes a greater drop in prices. And this is the time you can make the most out of it. From flights to hotels and even local markets, expect massive discounts everywhere that you otherwise wouldn’t have even have dreamt of during the peak season. In fact, there’s a chance you might get a big bang for your buck at some of the luxury hotels and resorts. The low influx of tourists is just an added bonus because of which you can pretty much expect all hotels to be unoccupied.
What can you do in Goa during June?
Goa has ample empty beaches to stroll
So, expect the otherwise popular beaches to be pretty uninhabited during this time of the year. For once in your life, you can have the beach to yourself; the ocean to yourself. Run towards the water as the first wave hits your ankles and then rush back to avoid the undercurrent. Stop and see a lone crab struggling against the water as it tries to burrow in. Then walk back to wash the sand off your feet and look back to see your footsteps getting washed away by the high tides.
PS: DO NOT SWIM. The current is very unpredictable at this time of the year. And never forget an umbrella no matter where you head to.
Need recommendations for some serene beaches that look good during monsoons too?
We’ve already got you covered. Check it out here – Best Beaches in Goa
Below photo: The much hyped Anjuna beach during monsoons by Rohan Pandit
Attend Goa’s favourite June festival – The Sao Joao
Also known as feast of St John the Baptist, The Sao Joao festival is an integral part of Goa’s Portuguese heritage. It is held in the beginning of monsoon season every year. This holiday is quite an auspicious and awaited one in the North Goa. The Sao Joao festival is celebrated exactly 6 months before the birth of Jesus (i.e) on the 24th of June every year. Popular mostly among youngsters in villages, get ready to experience good vibes only. The most unique thing about this fest is where people wear crowns made of fruits and leaves called ‘kopels’ as a part of the traditions.
Don’t be startled if you see people jumping into a well or any kind of a pool of water. That’s the most fun part of Sao Joao in Goa. Because, YOLO.
Boat festivities are a norm in the village of Siolim during Sao Joao festival. Anyone can join the multi-various activities during the day such as ‘kopel’ making competitions.
Expect a grand feast at the end of all the festivities. Because that’s kind of a highlight too.
Below photo by: Ashit Desai
Feast with the locals at the Sangodd Festival in Goa
The Sangodd tradition is celebrated annually by the fishing community across the northern coast of Goa on June 29th. A morning church service is followed by a large feast, during which plays, folk dances and songs are performed.
In the village of Candolim, rafts slowly make their way along the river up to the Chapel of St Peter. The festival has a legacy that dates back to the Portuguese invasion of Goa. In a carnival-esque atmosphere, colourful rafts are created by the people and a massive procession takes place, followed by an elaborate feast. The enthusiasm of the locals is alluring and makes this carnival is a must-attend, during the monsoons rains.
You can't miss visiting the Dudhsagar Waterfall in June
A trip to Goa during the monsoons is never complete without a trip to the Dudhsagar Waterfall (more like a trek). This mighty waterfalls is famous for a reason. Besides featuring in Bollywood’s hit movie Chennai Express, it’s a natural beauty that deserves all your attention. Located in the southern part of Goa, within the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary/Molem National Park, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. With a total height of 306 meters and width of 30 meters, it is a sight worth seeing.
‘Dudhsagar’ translates to ‘sea of milk’ in Konkani, and if you manage to catch a glimpse of it during the monsoons you’d know why. During its peak flow i.e. in the monsoon months from mid-June to September, it’s a must visit for any one heading to Goa. The sudden shadow of silence accompanied with nothing but the soothing sounds of flowing water and birds from the surrounding forests is most certainly an experience that everyone should have a take on. Set amongst the Western Ghats, in the jungle along the border between Goa and Karnataka, access to it is limited. Dudhsagar Waterfall can also be reached by special jeeps from Kulem/Goa.
Above photos by: Nitin Uliya & Uzair Khan
Find your inner theist at the Church of the Holy Spirit Feast Goa
The towering, white – washed Holy Spirit church in Margao was built during the Portuguese rule in Goa. The elaborately carved interiors are splendid from ground to ceiling. The sheer skill-set and intricacies of the architecture is a stunning example of the craftsmanship gone into its making, back in the day.
The feast day of this beautiful church is on June 10 that has been celebrated time and time again since the late 17th century. After the holy mass, a procession takes place consisting of a priest, laity and members of confraternity wearing red ceremonial robes. Devotees from Margao and surrounding villages of Salcete meet up to pay their respects with great fervour.
Special Note: Many Old Portuguese mansions are built in front of the church around a square called Church Square or Largo de Igreja. Be sure to have a walk around this place too if you’re visiting the church.
Below photo by: Oscar Mascarenhas
June – The perfect time for a road trip to Ghats in Goa
This one has to go into your bucket list for Goa right away. All you need is a rented car/bike and some hunger for adventure. Wherever you are, when it drizzles or once the rains subside for the day, drive up any of the ghats in and around Goa – Amboli, Anmod or Chorla. The choice is yours. The Sheer joy of driving on misty roads under cascades of water in Amboli or the lovely valleys of Anmod ghat and Chorla Ghat with small little outpourings along the roads, is beyond words. Drive up to the tallest point and return back. We bet you won’t regret it. Utmost caution is necessary during the drive as the roads can be pretty dangerous and slippery due to the showers.
Below photo by: Rahul Satoskar
The best part about June in Goa: Cheap accommodations
June is that time of the year in Goa when you can pretty much expect to get into some luxury resort at minimal costs. While some of the seasonal hotels and shacks close down during this time because of monsoons, most of the other resorts away from the sea or with sea view still remain open. And available to stay at the lowest possible rates.
So, consider dropping the idea of staying in some muddy, mosquito-infested shack and just relax in the balcony of your resort instead while sipping on a hot cup of coffee. That’s right. With next to no tourists around, watching the downpour is as relaxing as taking a walk on the beach in rainy months. You could even hire a villa, or stay in one of those inns or lodges close to the villages and green hinterlands. The picturesque surroundings of paddy fields and small streams will make it worthwhile.
If you’re interested in some really special resorts to spend some time at, check out these Unique Nature Resorts and Boutique Stays for the Monsoons in Goa
Liked what you read? We hope so. Comment and let us know if we missed out on anything else that you find interesting in Goa during June. Stay tuned for more from Goa’s not so secret diary!
Featured Image Courtesy: Sunaira Peris
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