About Goa

Overview

India's party capital and beach paradise, Goa is where Portuguese heritage meets tropical bliss. With golden beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious seafood. Explore ancient churches of Old Goa, indulge in water sports, experience laid-back lifestyle, and enjoy beach parties. From sunrise yoga to sunset celebrations, Goa promises unforgettable memories.

Cities in Goa

11 places to explore

Upcoming events in Goa

Festivals and celebrations across the state

Narkasur Night

Goa's Diwali eve: giant Narakasura effigies, street music and dawn burning across Panjim and other towns on 7 to 8 November.

7th to 8th November 2026
Panjim, Goa

Goa Sunsplash

After a decade of music and good vibes, Goa Sunsplash returns in 2027. Asia’s biggest reggae and sound system festival comes back to Ashwem Beach in North Goa for two days of peace, love, and unity. What started as a grassroots beach meeting has grown into a world-class festival, bringing together legendary international artists and India’s finest homegrown talent for a weekend by the sea. --- ### Quick Guide for Visitors | What You Need to Know | 2027 Information | | :--- | :--- | | **Dates** | January 16 to January 17, 2027 | | **Location** | Thalassa Beach Boutique Resort, Ashwem Beach, North Goa | | **Entry Fee** | To be announced | | **Nearest Airport** | Manohar International Airport (MOPA) | #### Festival Hours and Access * **General Timings:** 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM each day. * **Stages:** Three distinct stages featuring live reggae, dub, and dancehall. * **Age Limit:** 18+ for general entry; dedicated Kids Zone available for families. * **Pet Policy:** Pet-friendly atmosphere. --- ### Highlights from the 2026 Edition (10th Anniversary) * **Legendary Lineup:** Featuring Luciano (Jamaica), Macka B (UK), Hempress Sativa (Jamaica), and Iration Steppas (UK). * **Hand-Built Sound Systems:** High-fidelity audio through custom Jamaican-style sound systems like BFR and 10,000 Lions. * **Performance Art:** Live murals, stilt walkers, and fire dancers throughout the beach venue. * **Global Village:** A beach flea market featuring vinyl records, handmade crafts, and anniversary apparel. * **Island Flavors:** Dedicated food court serving Jamaican Jerk, tropical cocktails, and organic vegan options. --- ### Useful Tips for Your Trip * **Transport:** Hire a scooter or car for the easiest access to Ashwem. The venue is approximately 30 km from MOPA airport. * **Stay Sun-Safe:** January sun in Goa is strong; carry sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. * **Dress Code:** Barefoot or sandals are recommended as most activities take place directly on the sand. * **Cash and Connectivity:** Mobile network can be unstable on the beach; carry some cash as a backup for UPI or card payments. * **Eco-Conscious:** The festival follows a zero-waste policy. Please use designated recycling bins to keep the coastline clean.

16th to 17th January 2027
Goa

Serendipity Arts Festival

Serendipity Arts Festival is a major multi-disciplinary arts festival held every December in **Panjim, Goa**, showcasing visual arts, music, dance, theatre, photography, crafts, and culinary arts. The festival transforms the city’s riverfronts and heritage spaces into vibrant cultural venues, featuring exhibitions, live performances, installations, workshops, and community events. Organized by the **Serendipity Arts Foundation**, it aims to make art accessible, inclusive, and engaging for all, while supporting both traditional and contemporary creative practices. It is one of India’s most diverse and immersive cultural festivals, drawing artists and visitors from across the world.

Dec 13–20, 2026
Panjim, Goa

Feast of St. Francis Xavier

The Feast of St. Francis Xavier, celebrated every year on 3rd December, honors **St. Francis Xavier** - one of the most revered Christian missionaries and co-founder of the Jesuit Order. In Goa, the festival holds special significance, as his sacred relics are preserved at the **Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa**. Thousands of devotees from India and abroad gather for masses, novenas, prayers and processions leading up to the feast day. The atmosphere becomes festive with **illuminated churches, traditional music, long prayer** queues and a vibrant fair around the church complex. The celebration reflects St. Francis Xavier’s legacy of compassion, service and missionary work, making it one of Goa’s most important spiritual events.

Dec 03, 2026
Goa