It is a goal for all Indians to spend a vacation in Goa, once in a life. It is thought to be the place where fun combines with serenity to give visitors the ultimate holiday experience. Spending time in the breathtaking beaches throughout the coastline of the state is perhaps the only reason people get so attracted to Goa. What often goes neglected is the fact that Goa is also a prime Western Ghats location making it the abode of some of the best waterfalls in the country. The following are the ones not to miss:
1. Dudhsagar Falls
The Dudhsagar Falls is one of the most celebrated waterfalls in India. The name itself speaks for its beauty – dudh meaning milk and sagar meaning ocean, implying that it is a heavy flow of foamy milky white waters. The waterfall is located on the border of Goa and Karnataka in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National park. It originates from the Mandovi River and cascades down a height of 300 m. There is an incessant gushing sound of the waters which adds to the beauty of the place. It is surrounded by lush green forests. One can reach Dudhsagar Falls from Kulem Station and then take a vehicle to reach Mollem (6 km).
2. Netravali Falls
Netravali falls is one of the most attractive falls in Western Ghats. It is located in the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary and can be reached by a 2 hours’ drive from Madgao. Birdwatching must be done here as the sanctuary is frequented by birds. A number of wildlife species can also be spotted here. Panthers, cobras, hornbills and loris are common here.
3. Savari Waterfall
Savari Waterfall is located in Sanguem. It is situated in Eastern Goa and is known for the wildlife surrounding it. The activities one can undertake here are trekking, mountain climbing and a memorable jungle walk exploring the wildlife.
4. Mainapi Waterfall
Mainapi Waterfall is also located in Netravali. It is smaller than the main Netravali waterfall. It is tucked away in the interiors and is less intruded upon by tourists. One can trek till the main location of the waterfall but the trek takes about 2 hours. It is a slightly difficult trek as the path becomes very steep at places. Swimming is a popular activity here.
5. Kesarval Falls
Kesarval Falls are located in Verna plateau, 20 km from Panaji. It is also known as Kesarval Spring which is famous for its medicinal elements. The word Kesarval translates to ‘eagles’ as it is said to be a house of the eagles. The waterfall is stunning as there are beautiful forests around, with mainly betel palm trees. There is a winding trail through the forest to reach the waterfall. Swimming is a popular activity here.
6. Surla Waterfalls
Located in Belgaum on the Goa Karnataka border, it is a spectacular place with good trekking options. During monsoon, the beauty of the place is enhanced. The trek begins from the rocky banks of the Kalsa River, crosses the Kalsa waterfall and then reaches Surla, ending at Surla valley.
7. Charavane Falls
This falls is located in Charavane in Goa near the city of Valpoi. It is located in the Mhadei Wildlife sanctuary and therefore offers great trekking options through picturesque green landscapes. The Charavane Falls has a beautiful cascade and is surrounded by greenery.
8. Kuske Waterfall
Kuske Waterfall is one of the smallest waterfalls in Goa. It is also a seasonal one and has volume only during monsoon. It is located in Canacona near the Cotigao wildlife sanctuary. It falls from a good height. The colour of the water is milky white making it quite serene for an isolated getaway.
9. Bamanbudo Waterfalls
Bamanbudo waterfalls are located at the Ambeghat. It is a very pretty waterfall, situated right on the road, hence easier to locate. The interesting thing to do here is go bird watching. It is a pristine waterfall located in South Goa, and remains still unexplored. The crowd here is very limited, thus making it perfect for visiting.
10. Tambdi Surla
Tambdi Surla is a spectacular waterfall located inside Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife sanctuary. The waterfall is surrounded by thick forests, which bring out the prettiness in the cascade. There is a temple at the bottom of the waterfall. One has to trek through the forests to reach the fall.
11. Arvalem waterfall
Arvalem or Harvalem waterfall is located in Sanquelim. It is a splendid waterfall cascading down 50 metres from a hill. There is a park and a view point to marvel at the waterfall. It is great for swimming as well as picnics. The Arvalem Rock Cut caves, Mayem Lake and the Rudreshwar temple are nearby attractions.
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