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India.com
26-05-2025
- India.com
Top 6 Stunning Photography Spots in Goa This Monsoon
The Indian western coast tropical haven of Goa attracts tourists with its untouched beaches and traditional culture and its forested terrain. During monsoon many tourists avoid Goa but the state reveals a wondrous display of lush green landscapes and flowing waterfalls along with misty mountainous regions. During the wet season this becomes an excellent chance for photography enthusiasts to photograph Goa's natural scenes in their finest state. Seven mind-boggling photography locations near Goa City show their most magical appearance during the wet season. 1. Dudhsagar Falls Visitors should experience Dudhsagar Falls which stands as one of the country's most impressive waterfall locations when traveling during India's rainy season. During this season Dudhsagar Falls grows larger as water accumulates so that it appears as if streams of white milk drop from the mountains toward the valley below. The dramatic qualities of this photography spot are enhanced by the thick vegetation which surrounds the waterfalls. Long-exposure photography at the falls will produce dreamy ethereal results or you can shoot the fall mist arising from its base. 2. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in Western Ghats stands as a sanctuary for photographers together with people who love nature. When the monsoon arrives the wildlife sanctuary bursts with abundant flora and fauna while its wildflowers and varied animal population thrive. A mystical charm forms around the trees due to sunlight shining through leaves which become wet from rain. Guard your camera at hand to photograph special bird species alongside butterflies as well as deer and macaques when they appear within the forest's beautiful environment. 3. Old Goa Churches During the monsoon season the historic Old Goa churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral shine with timeless grace through the dull skies. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites gain a golden appearance from the diffuse light that illuminates their patina-covered exteriors combined with moist trails that reflect the sunlight. The buildings offer adequate possibilities to capture both vast panoramic views and minute shots of their complex decorative elements and stained-glass designs. 4. Tambdi Surla Temple Located in deep forest space near Mollem National Park lies the hidden Tambdi Surla Temple that exudes special charm when the monsoon rains arrive. Immersed within the 12th century dating black basalt temple the sacred Shiva structure stands magnificent with its unique carving techniques across magnificent tree cover. Fields of moss over stones receive a magical touch from the rainfall which helps to generate extraordinary moody atmospheric photographs in this peaceful monsoon setting. Visits made during the early part of the day lead to the most favorable lighting conditions. 5. Arambol Hill The panoramic Arabian Sea vista along with the emerald landscape from Arambol Hill increases its visual appeal in monsoon season. Hilltop viewers have scenic opportunities to capture swirling clouds as well as rolling hills extending to the point where the endless ocean horizon meets the landscape. Arambol Beach presents an enchanting atmosphere at this time with lesser people and calmer waves creating perfect conditions for scenic and silhouetted photographs. 6. Mayem Lake The picturesque Mayem Lake delivers a serene escape to people looking for relaxation outside urban environments since it exists within stunning hills and coconut groves. The monsoon period allows the lake to fill completely so photographers can capture mirror reflections of the surrounding green scenery. Boating across still waters allows you to discover new views of the landscape until raindrops produce attractive visual texture in your photographs. Photograph the serene relations between tiny human-built bridges with their surroundings that remain untouched by humans. Tips for Photographing in the Monsoon These locations require you to follow the below mentioned recommendations when visiting. Your camera equipment needs waterproof protection through the use of hard shells or bags for defense against rain while maintaining humidity levels. Research optimal visiting times for each spot since they will determine both light conditions and rain intensity. Do not fear rain when taking photographs since wet conditions create dramatic effects that increase picture depth. Delicate subjects such as leaf droplets along with puddle ripples and water reflections from shiny surfaces make excellent targets to create stunning macro images. You should approach forested regions as well as waterfalls with safety in mind due to slippery paths that form during monsoon conditions. Final Thoughts The rainy season gives new energy to Goa's natural wonders so photographers have the chance to create beautiful compositions from raw scenery across the region. One can find endless creative composition opportunities at Dudhsagar Falls and Mayem Lake alongside these seven spots. As both a specialist photographer or beginner enthusiast you can find exceptional photography moments during Goa's rainy season. Grab your equipment then take the rain into account as you witness the monsoon wonders of Goa through photographic art.
News18
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Beyond the Waves: 6 Cultural Festivals That Embody Goa's Spirit
Last Updated: Across villages, temples, riversides, and town squares, age-old festivals continue to unite generations, narrate timeless stories, and reflect Goa's living heritage Goa is emerging as a land of festivals that celebrate its rich cultural tapestry, deep-rooted traditions, and vibrant community life. Across villages, temples, riversides, and town squares, age-old festivals continue to unite generations, narrate timeless stories, and reflect Goa's living heritage. These celebrations not only keep cultural legacies alive but also position Goa as a thriving hub of heritage tourism that goes beyond its iconic coastline. As Goa charts its journey towards Regenerative Tourism, its festivals stand testament to the state's commitment to preserving and promoting its intangible cultural heritage while nurturing sustainable and inclusive tourism models. Here's a look at six iconic cultural festivals that truly embody Goa's spirit: Held in the serene village of Marcel, Chikal Kalo is a celebration of Lord Krishna's playful childhood, where villagers and visitors come together to revel in mud games, folk music, and community feasting. This unique festival not only revives ancient traditions but also brings communities closer through shared cultural expressions. São João (Feast of St. John the Baptist) Celebrated with unique fervour in villages like Siolim, São João is marked by revelers leaping into wells, streams, and ponds, symbolizing joy and thanksgiving for the monsoon rains. Traditional music, floral wreaths, boat processions, and communal feasting make São João a vibrant expression of Goa's Catholic heritage intertwined with its agrarian roots. Held on the banks of River Valvanti in Sankhali, this festival features a unique boat festival where intricately crafted miniature ships are set afloat, commemorating Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Tripurasur. Blending spirituality, craftsmanship, and community participation, Tripurari Poornima is a lesser-known yet deeply symbolic Goan celebration. Chorotsav Zarme village's annual Chorotsav recounts historical tales through the symbolic re-enactment of the story that revolves around some youths who were killed by the villagers as they were mistaken to be robbers (Chors). The preparations for this ritual are meticulous and time-consuming, even though the actual performance lasts merely 10 to 20 minutes before the Saptamatrika temple. Conducted on a full moon night at the sacred site known as Chavatho, this daring ritual involves four young men being buried in a pit with only their heads visible above the ground, while another four are positioned with their heads buried and their bodies exposed, holding swords in their hands. As the crowd gathers in eager anticipation, a hushed silence descends with the beating of drums ceasing, heightening the suspense until the Chors are dramatically revealed to the enthusiastic audience. Feast of St. Francis Xavier Held at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, this grand feast draws pilgrims from across the world to pay homage to Goa's patron saint. Religious masses, processions, and a vibrant fair mark the festivities, offering visitors a profound spiritual and cultural experience that reflects Goa's deep Catholic faith and its global connections. Speaking about Goa's evolving tourism narrative, Hon'ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, remarked 'Goa's cultural festivals are the living embodiment of our heritage, community pride, and regenerative ethos. As we promote 'Goa Beyond Beaches,' we aim to showcase these immersive cultural experiences that connect visitors with our land, people, and traditions. Every festival is a story, a celebration of sustainability, community, and cultural resilience." Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added 'In line with our Regenerative Tourism approach, we are committed to curating and promoting cultural festivals that not only attract mindful travelers but also generate economic opportunities for local communities, artisans, and performers, ensuring tourism benefits are shared inclusively." Through these festivals, Goa invites visitors to go beyond the waves, embracing a deeper, authentic connection with its land and legacy, a journey where every celebration becomes a step towards preserving and regenerating its cultural fabric for generations to come. First Published:
