If you're heading to Goa in May, you’re not avoiding crowds. Domestic tourism is at its peak and there is no off-season anymore. But you can avoid predictability. The heat being unbearable forces you to slow down and that’s where you need to step off the beaten path, and to uncover real stories.
It’s pointless trying to cram up a hectic schedule of ‘Things To Do’, if you’re not going to immerse in the experience. How about taking the time to notice the life happening outside of curated tours: in sleepy taverns, fish markets before sunrise, or in the quiet pride of someone serving you a home-style thali at their khanavod (local place for a working meal of fish, curry and rice).
Here’s a list for the curious.
VISIT A GOAN FISH MARKET AT DAWN
Want to understand Goa? Watch how it wakes up. Hit the fish market in Mapusa, Margao, or Siolim by 7 am. If you can go earlier, nothing like it. It's loud, chaotic, fragrant (smelly) and alive. Fisherwomen haggle like pros, men haul in the catch of the day, and there’s so much to know about local fish of the ocean that is part of our staple.
EAT AT A KHANAVOD – NO MENUS, NO FUSS
These no-frills local joints serve food that doesn’t need Instagram filters. You’ll likely get fish curry rice, seasonal vegetable dishes, solkadi, and whatever else is fresh that day. Ask a local where they eat lunch—you won’t find these places on food delivery app. And don’t be surprised to find these places with thatched roof.
GO BUY LOCAL BREAD
Walk into a traditional bakery around sunrise or in the morning or early in the evening and meet a poder (baker) when the poie or pao is still warm. Every village has at least a bakery or two that are run by families—still rolling out bread the old-fashioned way. Add a cup of chai (Goans say chao) and sit awhile.
TAKE A SPICE PLANTATION TOUR
Sheltered under a canopy of palm and betel trees, spice farms are naturally cooler and fragrant havens during the heat. A guided tour of a traditional plantation lets you sample fresh herbs, learn age-old agricultural wisdom, and enjoy a hearty Goan meal and get going with some fun activities there too.
CATCH A LOCAL TIATR
May is packed with cultural events and festive celebrations. Browse a local daily and book a ticket to watch a tiatr—a traditional Konkani theatre performance. Even if you don’t understand the language, you’ll still experience the essence of a beloved local art form. Enjoy the drama, humour, and emotion as these performances portray everyday Goan life. It’s a refreshing and immersive escape into the region’s vibrant culture.
GO CRAB CATCHING OR FISHING WITH LOCALS
For the adventure seekers, join locals for a day of traditional fishing or a playful crab hunt along muddy riverbanks. Whether you're casting a line or digging through the mangroves, it’s a hands-on experience rooted in local life—and you might just catch your next meal (if you have enough of patience)!
ATTEND A LOCAL FEAST OR FESTIVAL
May is dotted with community feasts, especially around churches and temples. These aren’t performances for tourists—they’re living traditions. If you’re invited, say yes. If not, visit respectfully. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of local faith, customs, and traditions. It’s a chance to witness the spirit of community in its most authentic form.
Here’s how you can feel the rhythm of Goa as it prepares for the monsoon—and discover a raw, soulful side of Goa you’ll never forget. Are you ready to explore it?