Stretching along the coastline of the Arabian Sea, Goa is best known for its 17th-century churches, and tropical spice plantations. Once a Portuguese colony, Goa is now an attractive destination for tourists who are looking to kick back on its beautiful beaches or experience its low-key fishing villages.
There are plenty of things to do in Goa as this area is rich in natural beauty. Adventure tourists who are looking to step away from the beaches and experience something more should explore the many stunning waterfalls in the area. This handy travel guide will walk you through some popular Goa waterfall trips and help you decide which spots are perfect for your adventure.
Tips to Consider Before Waterfall Sightseeing in Goa
Many of these waterfall locations require hiking to reach, so visitors should come prepared with comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes so that they can arrive at their destinations safely and easily. Another thing to consider is that visitors should read up on and keep local customs in mind when traveling to waterfalls. Dress modestly and know that nudity is not allowed in public areas, including waterfalls.
Adequate water, sun protection, and awareness of the weather and seasons are a must, as some waterfalls may be dangerous to visit during monsoon season. There is plenty of wildlife near Goa waterfalls, like monkeys, deer, and wild cats, so situational awareness is a much. Additionally, it’s good hiking practice to carry out anything that you bring with you, including clothes, food items, or any waste. Travelers should be sure to leave these pristine Goa waterfalls as beautiful as they found them.
Another thing to consider for your trip is that some of these waterfall attractions may be easier to find and get to with the help of a handy tour guide. Your Goa hotel may be able to make recommendations for local guides to help you through the area, so be certain to ask your front desk or concierge for options. Alternatively, sometimes private Jeep or car rentals are an option and can be quite affordable with a group. Having access to reliable transit makes it easier to get to and from the many stunning natural landmarks of Goa.
Goa is a beautiful area and a nature lover’s dream. Along with the falls, there are plenty of hiking, swimming, and nature-watching opportunities in the area to enjoy. So, lace up your hiking boots, put on your sun hat, and get ready for adventure in the great state of Goa.
Mainapi Falls in Neturlim, Netravali
Hikers rejoice and take a visit to Mainapi Falls in Neturlim, Netravali, Goa. Located in South Goa, near the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, which is an hour drive south from Madgaon. Travelers to the wildlife sanctuary can expect to pay a small fee to enter the park (generally, around $1.20). From the park gate, the three-mile hike to the falls takes about an hour to complete, depending on your hiking ability and, once there, you can expect to see pristine falls in a lush landscape. While this hike is not advanced, it does have a bit of an incline and may not be a great fit for older travelers or travelers with children.
Kuske Waterfall, Cotigao
Kuske Waterfall is located in the Kuskem Village, which is about 12 miles from Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary in South Goa. Driving by car to Kuske Waterfall from Madgaon, Goa takes about an hour and a half. Kuske Waterfall is considered one of the top tropical waterfalls in India, and should not be missed if you’re making a trip to Goa. It’s recommended that visitors make a trek to this waterfall during monsoon season, as that’s when its water flow will be most impressive, and the cascading flow and deep pools will be a nice reward to beat the heat. This waterfall is an easy 15-to-20-minute hike away from the main area (depending on individual hiking ability) and is one of the top Goa family-friendly waterfalls for this reason. Easy to reach and beautiful to view, Kuske Waterfall will please visitors of all ages.
Netravali Waterfalls, Netravali
Netravali Waterfalls, which is also known as Netravali Khandepar Waterfalls, is a must-see attraction for nature lovers. This Goa nature attraction is located in the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, which is an hour’s drive south of Madgaon. The trek to the falls takes about 20 to 30 minutes on a well-marked trail through dense forest and is perfect for individuals who are hoping for a spot that’s pristine and unspoiled.
With moss-covered rocks and crystal-clear pools, all surrounded by towering trees and other lush greenery, the falls offer visitors a piece of paradise in Goa that they’re sure to appreciate. While the falls are stunning, it’s advised that visitors take care when swimming during monsoon season, as the force of the water is quite strong during this time, and could be dangerous to swimmers.
Tambdi Surla Waterfalls
A visit to Tambdi Surla Waterfalls is more than just a visit to a pristine natural site. This Goa waterfall tour also stands near the Tambdi Surla Temple, a 13th-century Shaivite temple that’s dedicated to Lord Shiva. This black basalt temple is nestled in the lush greenery of the surrounding area and is the starting point for the trek to the falls. The falls are located near Surla, which is an hour or so drive from Panjim, Goa.
Hikers rejoice because the trek from the temple to the falls will take about an hour and a half to complete, and will probably require the services of a hired guide, as the falls are found through a densely forested area. Once you arrive at the falls, you’ll see the 164-foot-high falls and a pool area where visitors can have a dip and relax. Tambdi Surla Waterfalls is the perfect pick for adventure seekers and those who love to get off the beaten track.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Dudhsagar Waterfalls is a four-tiered waterfall that’s 100 feet wide and is located about an hour and a half from Madgaon by car. Standing at 1,017 feet tall, this waterfall is one of India’s tallest, making it a must-see stop for nature lovers. The falls are situated within Mollem National Park and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, in the Mollem area. The area is full of lush plant life and animals, so visitors are sure to love a stop here. While trekking to Dudhsagar Waterfalls is an option, many opt for a rented Jeep to take them most of the way.
To get to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, visitors need to first head to the village of Colem, which is about 4.5 miles south of Mollem, either by rented jeep or by train. One benefit to taking the train as it will pass over the falls, offering unparalleled views of the water and the surrounding nature. Once in Colem, a rented jeep will take travelers the rest of the way to the falls over bumpy terrain. It’s about a 45-minute journey from Colem, and once the ride is finished, visitors will have to scale some rocks to reach the falls. This trip is best enjoyed by adults who don’t mind being in bumpy vehicles or who won’t mind getting a little dirty. Visitors may also wish to opt for a travel tour, as these guided options will alleviate some of the worry about traveling to this area.
Kesarval Waterfall
A tropical forest and gentle falls greet you on your visit to Kesarval Waterfall. Located near Verna, Kesarval Waterfall is a smaller waterfall that’s the perfect spot to stop and relax at. The surrounding area is also ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and even meditating, making it a valuable stop for travelers who love to relax in nature. The falls are at the end of a short trail which is easily walkable, making it perfect for visitors who are hoping to get a quick visit in.
Another benefit to Kesarval Waterfall is that many believe that the waters are medicinal, making this spot perfect for visitors who enjoy a dip in therapeutic waters. Many find that Kesarval Waterfall is the most beautiful to visit during the monsoon season, as its waters are the strongest during this time, but as long as visitors stop by outside of the summer months, they’re sure to enjoy this tropical oasis.
Arvalem Waterfalls
About 45 minutes northeast of Panaji is Arvalem Waterfalls. These falls cascade beautifully into a large pool that’s perfect for swimming in. Budding photographers are also sure to be happy with the natural beauty of these falls and the surrounding area. The best time to visit the falls is generally between October and March, and the summer months (April to May) should be avoided as the water flow may be very low or completely dry.
Visitors who are looking for a unique experience can visit during the monsoon season (June to September). During this time, the falls will be inundated with water, which turns the flowing water into a muddy-brown color and adds more force to the flow of the falls. During the monsoon, visitors won’t be able to swim in the pool below due to the power of the water, but it makes for an interesting sight, nonetheless.
Bamanbudo Waterfall
If you’re hoping to make a quick trip to some of Goa’s waterfalls with the kids, then Bamanbudo Waterfall is perfect for you. Located in Gaodongrem, a village in Canacona in South Goa, these falls are easily accessible from the roadside. While the ponds at the bottom of the waterfall may be too shallow for swimming, visitors will still enjoy the beautiful, cascading flow of the water. For ease of travel with kids and impressive beauty, Bamanbudo Waterfall is just the spot you should head to.
Hivre Waterfalls
Visitors to northern Goa should make certain that they stop at the majestic Hivre Waterfalls. Hivre Waterfalls, which is also known as Hivrem Waterfalls, are located about 9 miles from Valpoy (also known as Valpoi) in Hivrem village. Valpoy itself offers stunning views of the nearby Sahyadri mountains, making it well worth a visit in its own right. The Hivre Waterfalls stand at nearly 70 feet tall, which makes them one of the tallest in Goa.
The trip from Hivrem village to the falls themselves is a bit strenuous, and part of the way, visitors will need to traverse a steep hill climb. The trail to the falls also makes its way through thick vegetation, streams, and even a river. This is a trip that’s best left to experienced climbers and may be more easily completed with the help of a hired guide. However, once travelers make it to the falls, they’re greeted with amazing views. All told it will take experienced hikers about 40 minutes to reach the falls.
Charavane Waterfalls
When waterfall hiking in Goa, Charavane Waterfalls cannot be missed. This pristine piece of nature is located 7.5 miles from Valpoy, which is about an hour from coastal Panaji. Picturesque and tranquil, Charavane Waterfalls are also a part of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary and are the perfect spot for swimming, picnics, and even meditation. An easy trail from Charavane Village takes travelers to this majestic spot, making it a good fit for hikers of all ages and abilities.
