Goa is the perfect destination for all beach lovers. The thought of Goa takes us closer to golden sandy beaches, tall palm trees, yoga retreats, loud parties, etc. Though Goa can be visited all around the year, the best time to visit Goa is from mid-November to March. December is the best time to visit Goa and December receives maximum footfall from all over the world. Not only backpackers & youth prefer visiting Goa, but also honeymooners and families love visiting Goa in December. From beach parties to shacks to swanky resorts, to sparkling nightclubs, and casinos, Goa is an ideal destination for all.
Ideal Time to Visit Goa
The best time to visit Goa start in November and ends in March. During these months, the weather is quite pleasant with a clear sky. During December, Goa witnesses some major celebrations such as Christmas and New Year, and the place is decked up like a doll with colorful streets, and music all around. Also during the winter season in Goa, many carnivals, parades, parties, and festivals are also organized.
How to Reach Goa
Goa is easily accessible by all modes including air, rail, road, and sea.
By Air: The Dabolim airport is the only airport in Goa managing domestic and international flights. The airport is located near Vasco da Gama and is just 30 km from Panaji. The Goa airport is well connected to all the major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Cochin, etc.
By Rail: Goa has two main railheads located in the state including Vasco da Gama and Madgaon. Vasco da Gama railway station is also 29 km away from Panaji while Madgaon station lies is 38 km away. From any of the railway stations, you can book a taxi or take a bus to get to other destinations within Goa.
By Road: Travelersfrom nearby cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore can travel by road to reach Goa.
By Sea: Goa is also accessible by sea route but only certain cruises cover the route from Mumbai to Panaji. So first, you have to reach Mumbai to reach Goa via cruise.
Best Places to Visit in Goa in December 2024
Some of the best places to visit in Goa in December include:
Old Goa – Christmas Celebrations
If you are coming to Goa in December, then you can visit old Goa to enjoy some super enthralling things in the store. Goa looks dazzling and beautiful during Christmas and the happy-go-lucky locals get into a complete festive vibe. All the streets and beaches are decorated with lights, stars, ribbons, and huge Christmas trees, giving that wow look to the place.
Anjuna Beach
Goa is listed among the most vibrant & happening party destinations in India. And when it’s the New Year Eve’s party, the place becomes much more lively & exhilarating. Though all the beaches in Goa are quite happening, Anjuna beach makes it one of the most happening places to visit in North Goa in December. The popular beachside pubs throw the most lavish parties with a super enthusiast crowd, vibrant music, mouth-watering food, and an amazing ambiance.
Panaji
Located on the banks of the Mandovi river, Panaji is the capital of Goa. Goa is home to many beautiful churches and quaint quarters. The Portuguese-inspired culture makes Goa one of the most popular places to see in Goa in December. Some of the places to see in Panaji include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Reis Magos Fort, Fort Aguada, Goa Archaeological Museum, etc.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Dudhsagar means ‘sea of milk. It is one of the gorgeous waterfalls located on the Goa-Karnataka border. The waterfall is located amidst lush green forests and the waterfall emerges from the top of a crescent-shaped valley, making the view more mesmerizing.
Chorao Island for Visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Located on the Mandovi River, Charao Island is home to the most famous Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. This small & pristine island always remains on the top list of visitors visiting Goa in December. The travelers can spot the most colorful & rare domestic & migratory birds in this fascinating bird sanctuary. If you are a nature lover or a trekker, visit Chorao Island.
Things to do in Goa in December 2022
Casinos – Witness the Lavishness
The casinos on huge boats and ships docked in River Mandovi are quite popular among tourists and listed among the best things to do in Goa in December. During the peak season, these casinos receive the maximum footfall of domestic and international travelers and the packages offered by most of the casinos include unlimited drinks & food till you play.
The most popular casinos in Goa include Casino Paradise, Casino Pride, Deltin Royale, etc.
Arpora for Shopping
The shopping therapy in Goa always energies the travelers and December is no exception. Arpora’s Saturday Night Market is one of the best places to explore in Goa in December. In this market, the shopkeepers bring the best to attract the large influx of tourists in December. The market opens every Saturday in the evening and runs till early morning. Arpora night market is a shopping paradise for the ones who look for some Goanese souvenirs
Dona Paula Bay
Planning a trip to Goa in December means a lot of watersports activities as well. Dona Paula Bay one of the best places in Goa is quite a happening adventure sports place. The kind of water activities one can do here include Dinghy sailing, windsurfing, parasailing, and scuba diving
Sunbathing
Sunbathing is among the definitive activities in Goa in December which gives you a chance to soak up the Sun on the palm-fringed beaches. Spend your lazy day either swimming or sunbathing in Goa. There are many beaches in Goa including Baga, Candolim, Vagator, Anjuna, Calangute, Colva, Agonda, Betul, etc. which are ideal destinations for sunbathing.
Hot Air Balloon
To enjoy an aerial view of the sea and its shore, book a hot air balloon ride in Goa in December. The thrill of being lifted up to 2,500 ft from the ground can best be experienced in a hot air balloon. It’s an incredible experience for all travelers and thus is one of the must things to do in Goa in December.
Silent Party in Goa
We all have been to parties with so loud music and have danced to our favorite songs as well. But have you ever been to any silent party in Goa? If not, then this time attend the Silent Party in Goa- one of the coolest things to do in Goa in December. The silent noise party is organized at Palolem, Goa, and with this party, you don’t have to worry about the sound as your headphones keep you grooving all night. So party like never before by having this unique experience only in Goa.
Dolphin
The wide ocean creates so many opportunities for travelers in Goa of which one is dolphin spotting. The coastline of the Arabian Sea is a natural habitat of dolphins. So, if you happen to venture into a faraway sea, book a boat ride and spot a school of dolphin swimming and frolicking in the water. You can see Dolphins in South Goa in December.
River Cruise
Among numerous things to do in Goa in December, the Mandovi river cruise can add charm to your Goa trip. This two-hour-long sunset cruise includes an entertainment show, gala dinner, music, masti, and all. Travelers can also opt for an overnight stay.
So when December is just a few months away, what are you waiting for? Plan your thrilling holiday to Goa in December and take your loved ones to the most happening places in Goa.
Goa Tour Packages from Other Cities
FAQs About Goa Trip in December
What places should I visit in Goa in December?
Some of the places to visit in Goa in December include Calangute beach, Fort Aguada, Baga Beach, Basilica of Bom Jesus Church, Dudhsagar waterfalls, Tito’s Lane Anjuna beach, etc.
Is Goa expensive in December?
Yes, since December is the peak tourist month in Goa so you can expect the prices on the higher side. The high demand for services including flights, accommodation, food, and activities results in a hike in Goa packages in December. To avoid all kinds of discomfort later, it’s best to book the Goa honeymoon package in advance.
Can you name some popular churches in Goa?
Some of the popular churches in Goa include Bom Jesus Basilica, Church of Lady of the Rosary, etc.
What should I wear in Goa in December?
The travelers are suggested to wear light cotton clothes in Goa. Make sure you carry all the required items with you to blend in the Goan vibe:
- Swimsuits
- Skirts
- Jeans/Cotton pants
- Light fabric tops
- Tops
- Short pants
What can I do in Goa at night in December?
There are numerous things to do in Goa in December at night. You can go to any of the casinos in Goa or can shop from a flea market Goa. The popular night markets for shopping in Goa include the Saturday Night Flea Market, Mackie’s Saturday Night Bazaar, etc.
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