If you were thinking to take a vacation to Goa and missed it during December, here’s why January is also a very exciting month to visit Goa. The clubs are in full swing after the overload of December parties but January in Goa has a lot more on the plate for you besides the parties. Tourists prefer a beach holiday in January due to the temperate weather.
Goa’s Weather Conditions during January
January is one of the driest months of the year for Goa. Days are warm and sunny while the nights are cold enough to use some light over clothing. With serene beaches and suitable weather, it is the best time to relax and laze about in the sun as much as you want and not get scorched.
Events taking place in Goa during January
What most don’t know about Goa during January is the plethora of festivities that take place here!
Zatrotsav of Shantadurga
Zatras are basically the annual festivals of hindu temples in Goa. One of the most famous Zatrotsav is of Shree Shantadurga at the beautiful temple of Kuncoliencarin in Fatorpa. Devotees belonging to different religions and communities from all over Goa come together to attend the 6-day long festivities. The highlight of the celebrations is the chariot procession and the fair that attracts thousands of people every year.
Here’s a list of various chariot processions which will be a part of this grand festival observed from 3rd to 8th of January:
4th January: Procession of the Deity on Ambari (Elephant Chariot)
5th January: Flower Chariot
6th January: Vijay Ratha (Victory Chariot)
7th January: Maha Ratha
Photo credit: LynnBarettoMiranda
Feast of Three Kings
The Feast of three kings is celebrated on 6 Jan of every year in the North Goa and South Goa and has many names to itself. The famous one happens at the Cansaulim Church. It is dedicated to Three Kings of Magi who came with their gifts to infant Jesus the Christ.This whole scene is re-enacted during this feast by three boys from elite families dressing up as the kings along with an entourage from the respective villages. Christians as well as the Hindus from all parts of Goa throng in to witness this festival. Apart from these, they also have the local feri (Fair) that goes on for the whole week.
Date: January 6 Place: Church of St.Thomas & Three Kings Chapel, Cansaulim
Photo credit: Goavilla
Goa Tribal Festival
An initiative by the Government of Goa, this festival aims to preserve the tribal livelihood of the state. Several tribal communities will be exhibiting the traditions of Goa to a huge crowd of tourists and urbanites.This year, the festival will take place at the Village Panchayat Ground, Xeldem, Quepem from Jan 7-8. The annual souvenir of the Tribal Association will also released as a part of the fiesta. Conventional Handicrafts like Mol’la (palm leaf mat), Nivoni (paddy grass weaving) and Fulla Fati (head bands of flowers), Instruments and Clothing unique to the tribal community and local delicacies like Pinagre, Donne, Sanna, Pattoleo etc. will be on display and sale.
Date: January 7 & 8 Place: Village Panchayat Ground, Xeldem, Quepem
Credits: PlanetGoaOnline
Goa Tattoo Festival
The 4th Annual & International Goa Tattoo Festival takes place from Jan 18 – 20, 2019. The event showcases the talent of the best local and international tattoo artists from around the world. It will not only be a celebration of tattoo art but will also feature live entertainment, stunning art galleries, live tattoo displays, stalls and much more. Tito’s Whitehouse in Anjuna will house this unique festival, with its open air grounds and ambient music adding a quirky vibe to the atmosphere.
Date: January 13-15 Place: Tito’s Whitehouse, Anjuna
Picture Credits: World Tattoo Festival
Places to Stay in Goa during January
The tourists’ inflow in Goa is at its peak during January with most coming down during the first half of the month. Right from luxury resorts to guest houses and budget hotels, there are abundant options for accommodation in Goa.
The top places that are usually chosen for a stay in Goa include Calangute, Baga, Candolim and Colva because of the bustling beaches and parties in its neighbourhood. But, If you’re a person who would like to spend his/her holiday in a peaceful and secluded environment, head out to Morjim & Arambol in the North and Palolem & Canacona in the South.
There will be lots of vacancies as the month progresses due to the end of winter vacations. Even though you might find a room or two at the last minute, it is advisable to book way before landing in Goa. The prices of the hospitality services will remain comparatively high, but still lower than the rates during new year’s holiday period.
What you shouldn’t miss out in Goa during January
The Adil Shah Palace, Goa’s old State Secretariat building by the river Mandovi had played host to a number of exhibitions which were a part of the Serendipity Arts Festival. Though the 8-day festival drew to a close recently, authorities have decided to keep the art showcase at Adil Shah Palace open till the end of January. This venue houses the most interesting installations witnessed during the festival.
As soon as you enter the building you will find a wall with the colourful rings from festival’s logo welcoming you. On the ground floor are the colourful presentations of folk art in the form of terracotta pottery, mural, paper crafts and digital art. Here the focus is on visual art. On the first floor, you can find an array of photo exhibits curated by several experts. Some other objects at display include 17th century gold cross, Narkasur effigy and a 7th century Buddhist sculpture.
Credits: Lokaso.in
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