Introduction
Winter season in Goa elevates the festive and celebratory spirits for both residents and visitors. As the cold air and foggy morning arrests the northern parts of India, Goa with its tropical allure draws in tourists to spend their year-end celebration with beach parties, international music festivals and its fervent clubbing scene. Rightfully called the Party Capital of India, Goa extends a diverse range of activities in peak season to its visitors seeking rejuvenation and recharge their minds and souls.
Here are some of the must-do activities to enjoy in Goa during winter season
Explore Goan Heritage:
Goa’s culture and heritage is a beautiful blend of Portuguese and Indian culture which is visible in centuries-old forts, beautiful townhouses and awe-inspiring cathedrals. Go on a cultural tour to witness heritage villas in Goa with gabled-roof tops, courtyards and arched windows. A must-visit attraction to explore in Goa is Fort Aguada, built in the 17th century by the Portuguese to fortify their land against the Dutch. Till date this fort stands strong on the shores of Sinquerim beach alongside the lighthouse. Witness the waves of the majestic Arabian sea as it crashes against the exterior of the massive fort. Take a camera along with you and catch the most instagrammable shots of scenic sunset from here.
Attend a Music Festival
As the year concludes, Goa turns into a hotspot for EDM concerts and music festivals. This coastal state is one of the largest music festivals in Asia—Sunburn Goa. It is an electronic music festival where a line up of renowned DJs and musicians from all over the globe come and showcase their exquisite artistry, captivating audiences. Attend this sonic fiesta for music lovers, if you are seeking to spend your time in Goa in December. Feel free to sing and dance your heart out and create everlasting memories.
Water and Adventure Sports
A must-do activity to do in Goa participating in a myriad of adventure sports. The clear skies, dry days, and calm sea conditions facilitates hassle-free sporting activities. Whether you wish to hop on a banana boat ride or challenge yourself on paddle boarding, surfboarding or kayaking in Nerul river, the excitement and fun in Goa is never ending. If you aren’t too fond of water sports, fret not. Goa’s adventure sports aren’t just limited to its waterbodies, you can also try adventure activities such as hang gliding, parasailing, ziplining and ATV rides.
Enjoy Christmas & New Year’s Festivities
The vibrant festivities of Christmas and New Year’s Eve are best experienced on the beaches, restaurants and cafes of Goa. There are a myriad of beach shacks, chic cafes and restaurants serving epicurean Christmas-themed lunches and dinners. If you are staying at a luxury hotel in Goa, you can also attend their organised Christmas parties and dinners for guests with your loved ones. There is nothing quite like relishing a scrumptious festive meal with your favourite drink in hand, soaking in the ambiance of excitement and revelry. Besides feasting and celebrating, you can also attend a Christmas mass, visit churches or take part in merit-making to evoke the Christmas spirit.
Taste Goan Delicacies
It would be criminal to spend a vacation in Goa without savouring its mouth-watering local delicacies. The local flavours consist of tangy, spicy and sweet, and uses meat and seafood. Delight your taste buds with popular dishes such as Chicken Cafreal, Chicken Xacuti, Pork Vindaloo, Ros Omellete, Goan Fish Thali, Prawn balchão, and Pav Bhaji. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to relish decadent desserts of Goa, including Bebinca, Baath Cake, Dodol, Alle Belle, Chana Doce, etc.
Beach Hopping
Goa has some of the best beaches in India where you can sunbathe, watch a sunset, laze around in a hammock, play water sports, and grab a quick bite at a beach shack. The buzz, the liveliness, and all the parties mostly take place on the beaches of North Goa. Find yourself from partying at Baga beach to relaxing at Candolim beach. Those who wish to partake in any watersports, must head to Calangute beach. Sinquerim beach is ideal for those seeking tranquillity and watching a beautiful sunset. And if you want to avoid the crowds (which might be slightly challenging since it’s the peak season), head to Keri beach.
Dance ‘til the Dawn
Put on your dancing shoes and head to Goa’s exquisite clubs for drinks, dance and electrifying music. These clubs are ideal for jamming to the latest trendy beats, relishing your favourite beverages and render as the perfect hangout spots for young people. Some of the best clubs in Goa include Hammerz Nightclub, SinQ Nightclub, LPK Waterfront Club, Goa Gossips Club.
Shop at Goan Markets
Shop from Anjuna weekly market organised every Wednesday and Calangute Saturday market for items such as textiles, carpets, leather goods, trinkets, beachwear, bags, and other knick knacks. You can also browse home decor, flavoured teas, kombuchas, cashews, coconut items, and spices
Travel Tips for Visiting Goa in Winter
The peak season in Goa can be a little hectic, if you have not prepared in advance regarding travel and accommodation logistics. During peak season there might be limited availability of luxurious stays and flight tickets, therefore book everything in advance. If you are planning to have an extended stay in Goa, it is advisable to rent a villa or a luxury apartment for a comfortable and sophisticated stay.
Weather in Goa in Winter
Being a tropical state situated on the western coast, Goa does not experience the typical chilly winter season. In fact, when the temperatures up north are at freezing levels, Goa’s weather is extremely pleasant and conducive for sightseeing, spending time on beach, sunbathing, partaking in watersports, and going on heritage walks. The temperature in Goa during peak season (October to March) oscillates between 29°C and drops to as low as 17° C at night, with late December and early January being the coolest time of the year.
What to Pack for Goa During Winter?
You are all set to spend a gala time partying in Goa during the peak season but are wondering what to pack? Don’t worry, here are simple tips to help pack your suitcase without overwhelming it.
Clothes – If you are wondering what to wear in Goa in winter, it is recommended to keep your sartorial choices aligned with Goa’s weather. From October to March, the days are slightly warm, but the evenings are cooler, with temperatures dipping low as the nights progress. Therefore, pack light and breathable clothes made up of fabrics such as cotton and linen. This can include shirts, shorts, pants/jeans, for men and dresses, shorts, shirts/t-shirts for women. Do pack a light jacket, a scarf or a light hoodie, if you’re visiting in December. Also pack a pair of swimwear and dry fit clothes, if you plan to swim or participate in water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing or banana boat rides.
Footwear – Keep your footwear light and comfortable. Both men and women can pack a pair of sneakers/sandals for their Goa excursions and flip flops for the beach. Keep your stilettos and formal footwear for parties or any clubs that require a certain dress code.
Accessories – Pack a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes, a polo cap or a small hat, and if you have limited space in your suitcase, you can always buy one after reaching Goa. For beach picnics and sunbathing, always carry a tote bag with all your items secure in one place.
Toiletries – It is advisable to keep your toiletries bag small. Put in a broad spectrum SPF for sun protection, a shampoo and conditioner, a hairbrush, and a deodorant. Carry your makeup in travel-friendly bottles for vanity purposes.
Miscellaneous – This includes items such as powerbank, adapters, waterproof phone case, beach towels, and always carry some petty cash for spending in the flea markets of Goa.