Things to do in Mandrem in 2025

Planning to visit Mandrem soon? We won’t let you do that without reading this detailed blog about the top things to do in Mandrem, including local events and cultural festivals.

Keep reading!

1. Witness Mandrem Saptah festival

Saptah is Hindi for ‘week,’ which is the duration of this vibrant festival. The Mandrem Saptah is a week-long celebration by the locals, filled with devotion and community spirit. It’s undoubtedly one of the most unique things to do in Mandrem if you’re visiting in November.

• History: The festival’s origins date back over 160 years. According to local legends, the village was once hit by a severe drought, leaving fields barren and causing immense distress. A local temple priest advised the villagers to pray to Bhagavati and Sapteshwar, and miraculously, it began to rain. Since then, this festival has been celebrated every year, beginning 7 days before the main event.
• What’s in it for you? During this period, seven villages or wards of Mandrem—Junaswaddo, Deulwaddo, Dandoswaddo, Askawaddo, Naikwaddo, Ashvewaddo, and Madhalamaj—come together to sing uninterrupted bhajans, locally known as ‘paar.’ The festivities also include a grand procession of deities Bhagavati and Sapteshwar, poojas, and the distribution of sweets. Local priests and community leaders take turns leading the bhajans.
• When to visit: Mandrem Saptah is celebrated on 12th November, with bhajans beginning 7 days in advance

A view of the Mandrem Saptah

2. Attend Mandrem Shigmotsav: 

Shigmotsav, also known as Shigmo, is a vibrant spring festival marking the harvest season. Attending Shigmotsav is a must when exploring the top things to do in Mandrem during March.

• History: Shigmo is celebrated in two parts: Dhakto Shigmo (Small Shigmo), mostly observed by rural communities like farmers, and Vhadlo Shigmo (Big Shigmo), celebrated by everyone. The festival includes spreading red powder called ‘Gulal’ on the fifth day to mark the occasion.
• What’s in it for you? Enjoy colorful processions, traditional street performances, and local Goan cuisine. Don’t miss unique dance forms like ‘Ghode-Morni’ (horse dance), ‘Fugdi,’ and ‘Rommatamel.’
• When to visit: 15th–29th March, 2025

Enjoy the vibrant festival of Shigmotsav in Mandrem

3. Feel the rhythm at Goa Sunsplash

Looking for lively music festivals as part of the things to do in Mandrem? Goa Sunsplash, held annually in Morjim, celebrates reggae and world music.

• History: Since 2016, Goa Sunsplash has brought the vibrant beats and soul of reggae to Goa. Legendary artists like Anthony B, Mad Professor, and Queen Omega have graced its stage, making it India’s most iconic reggae festival.
• What’s in it for you? Experience live music, workshops, and Goan cuisine at this festival. The event attracts both international and local artists, providing a multicultural music experience.
• Dates: 11th–12th January
• Venue: 251/4 Village Mandrem, Taluka Pernem, Ashvem
• Drive time from The Hosteller Goa, Mandrem: Approximately 10 minutes

Party like there's no tomorrow at Goa Sunsplash festival (Credits- @goasunsplash)

4. Join the fun at Mandrem carnival

The Mandrem Carnival is part of Goa’s famous carnival celebrations and is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Mandrem if you visit in early March.

• History: Originating during Portuguese rule over 450 years ago, the carnival began in the 18th century as a grand celebration. Over time, it evolved into a vibrant multicultural festival embraced by all communities.
• What’s in it for you? Witness King Momo lead the parade with musicians, dancers, and acrobats. Don’t miss ‘Assoltes,’ where people dress in unique costumes and prank others, or the grand finale—the Red and Black Dance, where men and women perform in stylish red and black attire.
• When to visit: 1st–4th March, before Lent

Contagious energy of the dancers in Mandrem Carnival

5. Splash into ColorFest (Mandrem Holi)

Looking for colorful and lively things to do in Mandrem? Mandrem’s ColorFest is a vibrant Holi celebration where locals and tourists come together to enjoy colors, music, and dance.

• What’s in it for you? Experience Goan culture through eco-friendly celebrations with organic colors, mist sprinklers, and vibrant decor. Relax in the VIP area, which includes a swimming pool and jacuzzis.

People having a good time at Goa ColorFest

6. Explore the Mandrem fishing festival

‘Ramponnkaranchem,’ or the fishing festival, is a unique event and one of the most interesting things to do in Mandrem for tourists who want to engage with local traditions.

• What’s in it for you? Tourists can join fishermen to pull in catches from the sea and cook them for lunch. The event also includes fishing competitions, demonstrations of traditional techniques, and seafood tastings.
• When to visit: Late November or December
• Venue: Arambol beach
• Drive time from The Hosteller Goa, Mandrem: Approximately 8 minutes

Witness the mesmerizing fishing techniques by local fishermen at the Mandrem Fishing festival

7. Experience Ganesh Chaturthi in Mandrem

Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most vibrant festivals if you’re visiting in late August. This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion.

• History: A key feature of the festival is the ‘matoli,’ a wooden canopy adorned with seasonal produce like coconuts, mango leaves, and betel nuts, reflecting Goa’s rich biodiversity.
• What’s in it for you? Homes and streets come alive with music, dance, and community feasts. The festival concludes with the immersion of the Ganesha idol, symbolizing renewal and prosperity.
• When to visit: 27th August–4th September

Celebrate Ganpati festival in Mandrem, Goa

8. Celebrate Dussehra (Vijayadashami)

Dussehra, celebrated across India, holds a special charm in Mandrem and is one of the most culturally rich events in Mandrem during October.

• History: This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Mandrem traditions include worshiping tools, vehicles, and instruments to express gratitude for prosperity.
• What’s in it for you? Decorated homes and temples, festive meals featuring Goan sweets like shrikhand puri, and the exchange of apta leaves, symbolizing goodwill and prosperity.
• Date: 1st October, 2025

Conclusion:

Sounds exciting? Mandrem may be the peaceful side of Goa, but it knows how to keep the fun alive with its vibrant festivals and events. So why wait? Pack your bags and get ready to witness the perfect blend of serenity and festivity! Also, if you’re looking for affordable accommodation options in Mandrem, check out The Hosteller Goa, Mandrem, located just 2-mins walk away from the peaceful Mandrem beach perfect for your beachside getaway.

Take a stroll on the peaceful Mandrem beach