Want to change a cold winter with snowstorms to a hot sun? Or celebrate New Year in an exotic place? Then you can consider going on a vacation to Goa in December. Despite the fact that Goa is considered the smallest state in the country, in December it offers simply ideal conditions for recreation.
Goa in November
If, by coincidence, your vacation took place in November, December, a vacation in Goa will be a great option in order to enjoy the sea and the sun. It is in November that the high season begins. If until this time there were heavy rains and the weather was incredibly stuffy, then at the end of autumn everything will stabilize. Days become sunny and rains stop. As a rule, in November there is no rain at all, but if they happen, then there are no more than three short-term rains. There are no winds, only sometimes breezes blow from the sea. At lunchtime, the air temperature reaches +31 ... +32 gr. In Goa, the sun is always active, and with the advent of winter it becomes even more scorching. If during the day you can only sunbathe peacefully in the shade, then in the evening it is quite possible to take a walk, since the temperature drops to +22 degrees.
In November, the holiday season begins, so the whole tourist infrastructure begins to work actively. After the rainy season, shakes, cafes and equipment rental points open. In other words, the state greets tourists with open arms.
Goa in December
In December, in Goa, rest is very good. There is no rain at all this month, since the monsoon season is long over. For this reason, it is believed that the weather in December for a vacation in Goa is just perfect. Indeed, if we compare the months in terms of rainfall and winds, then winter time is very favorably different from summer. In December, the state is dry and clear. And it’s certainly not worth taking an umbrella with you. But during the high season, you can forget about a relaxing holiday in Goa. In December, it is incredibly crowded. The coast of the Arabian Sea is literally teeming with tourists who come to soak up the sun away from the cold and slush. If you plan to have a rest in Goa in December with your children, you will have to come to terms with the fact that acclimatization is guaranteed to happen to you, since it is difficult for the body to change dramatically to hot after frosty weather. It takes about two to three days to adapt.
Weather at the beginning of winter
According to tourists, a holiday in Goa in December is good primarily because of the very warm weather. However, at this time there is a decrease in humidity, so the heat is well tolerated. The average temperature in the daytime is +32 degrees. But quite often, the air temperature reaches the level of +35 ... +36 gr. Despite such high temperatures, according to tourists' reviews, it is still worth taking things with a long sleeve for a vacation in Goa in December. The bright sun is so active that during a long stay on the street it is worth covering the skin with more closed outfits. The use of sunscreens alone does not always protect the skin.
But in the evening, sometimes you want to throw a lightweight blouse on your shoulders, because with the sunset the air temperature drops to +21 degrees. Evening and night bring the long-awaited coolness after a sultry day. Nevertheless, it can be stuffy to spend the night in a room, so you should book air-conditioned rooms. An equally necessary thing on a vacation in December in Goa (India) is a fumigator, which you can hardly do without.
What to choose: South or North Goa?
In general, a vacation in December in North Goa or South, as at any other time, is not very different. Across the state, roughly the same prices for food, shelter, drinks, and entertainment are observed. It is believed that in the northern part there are more various entertainments and it is more party. This is partly true. However, it cannot be said that in the south there are no such proposals. Our compatriots, as a rule, prefer to relax in North Goa. Here you can find Russian shops, cafes and even hairdressers, so there is practically no language barrier.
Holidays in South Goa in December are calmer than in the north. This area is believed to be cleaner. Perhaps this is due to the fact that the sandy coast here has a lighter coating. There is rubbish on the sidelines, as well as throughout India. The main difference between a vacation in December in South Goa is that there are much fewer tourists on its coast. The beaches of the resort are calmer than in the northern region.
What to do in December?
In the summer months, the resort’s list of entertainment is modest. One of the features of a holiday in Goa in December is the opportunity to participate in any kind of entertainment. And their choice during this period is simply colossal. Beautiful weather favors languid beach vacations. In addition, local residents will offer you Ayurvedic treatments. You can also spend time shopping.
Beach vacation
A beach holiday in Goa in December is the sea, the sun and sand. According to experts, this is the best time to visit the state. In December, you will find a warm sea, tropical fruits, rustling palm trees, delicious cocktails and a pleasant breeze. The sea at this time will please you with its purity, because there are no showers and storms. Its temperature on average ranges between +28 degrees. December is a great time to go snorkeling and diving. A light breeze from the sea significantly softens the heat on the coast. Nevertheless, it is worth remembering the rules of conduct under the scorching rays of the sun.
Very often, tourists who visit Goa for the first time do not calculate their strength and still burn out on the first day of rest. The proximity to the equator makes itself felt. The midday sun is very active. Therefore, for a beach holiday, you should choose certain hours: from 7.00 to 10.00 or from 15.00 to 18.00.
Tours and activities
The main feature of a holiday in Goa in December is the opportunity to visit all the attractions. But for this it is worth stocking up closed shoes. In addition, on any trip you need to take water with you. In addition, it is worth having a hat and some kind of light cape or shawl on your shoulders. In the hot period, the issue of unsanitary conditions is more acute. Do not forget that you are in India. Therefore, a hand sanitizer is the main tool that should always be at your fingertips.
An incredibly popular place among tourists is the famous Dudhsagar Falls, which is considered one of the largest in the country. Its height reaches 310 meters. Tropical landscapes and water extravaganza - all this you can see after an exciting, but difficult journey in a jeep. It is recommended to visit this beautiful place during the period from November to February, since in the spring in this area it is very hot and humid. And in the summer, during the monsoon rains, it is often impossible to even get to the waterfall. Therefore, December is one of the best months to visit.
Experienced tourists also recommend visiting a very interesting tour called “Spices and Crocodiles” in the Savoy Spice Garden. This plantation is the most popular among tourists. On it you can see with your own eyes how the spices grow, which we use so often in preparing all kinds of dishes. On the plantation you can see real breadfruit trees and see how nuts are harvested.
Workers treat guests to traditional Indian dishes served on banana leaves. But the return journey from the plantation runs through the Kambarhua canal, in which an incredible number of crocodiles live.
If we talk about real purely Indian entertainment, then it is definitely worth a ride on elephants. Or rather, on the elephants, since the males are quite aggressive and do not allow strangers to approach them, and even more so they will not be happy with the prospect of riding tourists on their backs.
If you are a nature lover, then you should visit the Kotigao Nature Reserve. It is located literally in the south of Goa. On its territory you can see the virgin jungle and a large number of monkeys. The main feature of this place is the presence of two observation towers, each of which is 25 meters high. At their top there are observation platforms from which a unique view of the jungle and waterfall opens. You can also see the watering place, to which wild animals come in the morning and evening.
No less interesting place is Fort Redi. When you first saw him, you immediately catch yourself thinking that this is exactly what the abandoned city looked like in which Mowgli found treasures. Once upon a time, powerful stone walls were completely entwined with vines and pierced by the roots of trees. And on all the ledges, macaques sit busily and watch tourists with interest. Despite the fact that the fort is far from civilization, people often come here to see the old structure and take stunning photographs as a keepsake.
The powerful building was built in the sixteenth century. But later it was captured by the Portuguese, after which the fortress passed from hand to hand. But in the end, nature took its toll. It is she who now rules not the territory of the structure.
Shopping
Resting in Goa, of course, it is worth visiting the local incredibly colorful markets. One of them is Anjuna's market. It was founded by hippies in the 60s of the last century, who, wasting their savings, were forced to earn a living by selling their own goods. Later, locals and Chinese appeared on the market. Now on its territory you can buy all kinds of trinkets, jewelry, souvenirs, national clothes, tea, spices and Buddhist talismans.
One of Goa's main markets is the Bazaar. It is located on the coast of the river of the same name. By the way, the market only works during the high season: from November to May, so in December you can safely go to wander along its malls. A colorful place is worthy of your attention.
Mapusa market differs significantly from other brethren in that it is the place where the local population buys food and food. It works daily, but Friday is considered the main trading day. From all over Goa, many Indians and tourists come here.
All Inclusive Vacation
Most of our compatriots are supporters of a comfortable all-inclusive holiday. In December, prices in Goa are far from the lowest. This is due to the fact that the high season has come, which means that the cost of food and accommodation will be maximum. If you arrive at the beginning of the month, you can find more reasonable prices. The closer to New Year and Christmas, the higher the cost of tours. By the second half of the month, prices increase by about 10-12%. If you want to celebrate the New Year in India, you will have to pay almost a double price for such a tour. The average cost of trips in December for two for five days is from 37 thousand rubles, subject to accommodation in a four-star institution. Three-star hotels are slightly cheaper - from 35 thousand rubles.
One of the good all-inclusive hotels is the Bollywood Sia Queen Beach Resort. It is located in South Goa in the village of Colva on the very coast of the sea.
Tourists also recommend the three-star Aldea Santa Rita Hotel, located near Candolim Beach in North Goa. In the Arpora region, you should pay attention to the institution "Lazilagun Sarovar Portico". The hotel has the status of four stars. It is located among tropical flower beds and trees. The apartments offer stunning sea views.
One of the respectable beach hotels can be called Radisson Goa Candolim. You can already understand from the name that the institution is located in the North Goa region in the village of Candolim on the very coast of the sea. The hotel offers stylishly decorated rooms with tropical plants, a pool, a garden, modern technology in the rooms. In the hotel complex you can have a good rest even with children.
"Citrus Goa" is another three-star institution in North Goa, located in the village of Calangut. The hotel features a gym, spa and outdoor pool. It is located a 10-minute walk from the beach on a busy street, near cafes, restaurants and other establishments.
In general, it is worth noting that tourists prefer those hotels that are located on the coast itself or within walking distance from it. Of course, rooms in such establishments are somewhat more expensive, but it's worth it. Not all Goa hotels profess the all-inclusive concept. If this nuance is important to you, then be sure to check the information when booking.
New Year in Goa
December in Goa is a series of holidays. The rich cultural heritage of the region was reflected on the calendar. So, for example, December 3 in Old Goa celebrates the day of the patron saint of the state. The holiday is accompanied by lush processions and religious services.
December 8 opens a big fair in honor of the next holiday. And on the beach of Magao, there is a festival of cuisine and culture, where you can taste the best Indian dishes. Last weekend in December, Candolim Beach hosts a trance music festival.
But Christmas in Goa is celebrated on December 25. Of course, Christmas trees are not dressed up here, but the basic principles of the holiday are still the same. Festivities reign on the streets, and services are held in temples. The New Year itself, as in European countries, is greeted with great pathos and scope. Here everywhere you can see parties right in the open air, animated shows, entertainment programs and events are held in cafes and restaurants. In general, the atmosphere of general fun and celebration in December adds a pleasant sensation to tourists traveling to India.
Reviews for Holidays in Goa in December
Goa is one of those resorts that are very popular among our compatriots. According to experienced tourists, December can be safely attributed to one of the best months for a vacation in India. This is largely due to weather conditions. The heat at this time is normally tolerated due to breezes. In wetter periods, it is quite difficult for our people to stay in high humidity. Of course, the arrival of the high season is accompanied by an increase in prices for tours, but the vacation is worth it. Especially vacationers recommend visiting the resort to celebrate the New Year. After all, you can celebrate the holiday in an unusual environment and get a lot of impressions.