Old Goa, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Old Goa, India? If you're planning to go to Old Goa, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Old Goa, India

Based on the climate and weather in Old Goa, India, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Old Goa, India

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Old Goa, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Old Goa, India by month

January

If you visit Old Goa during January, you will probably notice that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you get the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you visit Old Goa during February, you are likely to find that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you pick the right type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March for Old Goa is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you vacation in Old Goa during April, you are likely to notice that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you visit Old Goa during May, you may find that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to get the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you go to Old Goa in June, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July for Old Goa is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you go to Old Goa in August, you will notice that it is hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Old Goa is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to find the right type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Old Goa can be very hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you vacation in Old Goa during November, you may see that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Old Goa can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Old Goa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to get the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you want to go to the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Old Goa, India

Old Goa, located in the west coastal state of India, is a historical destination that reveals the rich and vibrant past of Portugal-era India. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unique fusion of Indian and Portuguese architectural styles. Old Goa was the capital of the Indian province on the western coast and served as the center of activities for spiritual and worldly pursuits. Tourists come from all corners of the world to witness the cultural and historical significance of Old Goa, as it boasts of several attractions. Let's delve into some of the top tourist attractions of Old Goa.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a 16th-century church that is home to the tomb of St. Francis Xavier, a Christian missionary who was responsible for the proliferation of Christianity in India. The architecture of the church is breathtaking and features intricate carvings and exquisite artistry. The church also hosts a museum that displays the rich history of Christianity in the region.

Se Cathedral

The Se Cathedral is an epitome of the religious architecture of the Portuguese era. The church, dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, was built in the 16th century and is one of the largest churches in Asia. Se Cathedral is famous for its unique decorative features, including the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier and the eight chapels that depict different scenes from the life of Christ. The church stands tall at the backdrop of Old Goa, and its architecture is awe-inspiring.

Church of St. Francis of Assisi

The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, built-in 1926, is a testimony to the Portuguese influence on Indian architecture. It is a gothic-style church that is home to richly ornate interiors with sculptures and intricate woodwork. The church boasts of stunning frescos depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi, reflecting the transition of Indian sculpture and architecture.

Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery

The Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery in Old Goa is just a short walk from the Basilica of Bom Jesus. It features a unique collection of artifacts, statues, and portraits from the historical period of Portuguese colonialism in India. The museum is a must-visit for history lovers as it features numerous exhibits that detail Goa's evolution from early times to the Portuguese and subsequent periods.

Fontainhas

Fontainhas is a picturesque neighborhood that served as the residential hub of Portuguese officials in Goa. The yellow, blue, and green-colored houses in Fontainhas are still standing, and they reflect the Portuguese influence on Indian architecture. The area is perfect for a stroll, and it is an excellent place to take photos with its charming setting, and it is easy to find a coffee shop or restaurant to spend the day.

In conclusion, Old Goa is an idyllic destination for history enthusiasts and tourists who simply enjoy a touch of elegance and culture. The city offers a perfect blend of rich Indian and Portuguese cultures with its breathtaking churches, museums, and monuments. The top tourist attractions will take you back in time to explore the cultural heritage of India and the world. So, whether you are traveling solo, with family or friends, Old Goa has plenty to offer, and it is a must-visit destination in India.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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