Goa is famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, but beyond the coast lies a world of lush forests and breathtaking waterfalls. On this adventure, we take you to two of Goa’s natural gems: Harvalem Falls and the majestic Dudhsagar Falls.
Harvalem Falls: Goa’s Lesser-Known Gem
Our journey started with a visit to Harvalem Falls (also known as Arvalem Falls), located near Sanquelim in North Goa. With a height of 50 meters and a width of 7 meters, Harvalem Falls might not be as tall as Dudhsagar, but it is no less captivating. This beautiful waterfall becomes a gushing torrent during the monsoon season (June to September), making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a refreshing nature escape. During our visit, which was near the beginning of summer, the water flow was much less, but it still remained a charming sight.
Harvalem Falls is conveniently located near some other fascinating attractions. Not far from the falls, you’ll find the Harvalem Caves (also known as Pandava Caves), which are believed to date back to the 6th century. These ancient caves offer a glimpse into Goa's historical and architectural past, making it a perfect stop for history buffs. There is also the Rudreshwar Temple, adding a spiritual dimension to the visit. We plan to explore these caves in an upcoming video, so make sure to keep an eye out for it!
The falls are surrounded by a tranquil setting, and there are a few viewing areas where you can take in different perspectives of the waterfall. Even though it wasn't the peak season, we enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nature.
Dudhsagar Falls: The Sea of Milk
After exploring Harvalem, we made our way to the mighty Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Located on the Mandovi River, Dudhsagar Falls is a four-tiered waterfall that plummets approximately 310 meters (1,017 feet), creating a stunning cascade of white water. The name "Dudhsagar" means "Sea of Milk," inspired by the waterfall’s milky-white appearance as it thunders down the rocky slopes of the Western Ghats.
Dudhsagar Falls gained widespread popularity after being featured in the Bollywood film "Chennai Express". Visiting the falls during the monsoon season (June to September) is the best way to experience its full glory, with the waterfall at its peak and the surrounding landscape beautifully lush.
The Journey to Dudhsagar Falls
We started our adventure to Dudhsagar Falls from Kulem, where we booked a jeep safari for ₹1,920 per person since it was getting late in the day and fewer travelers were around. The jeep ride was an adventure in itself, taking us through a 10-kilometer bumpy and dusty path through the forest, often crossing the Mandovi River. The journey took about 30-40 minutes, giving us a taste of the rugged beauty of the area.
Once we reached the drop-off point, we trekked to the viewpoint to admire the waterfall. Despite visiting during the start of summer, when the water levels were lower, Dudhsagar Falls was still a sight to behold. To our delight, we were able to see a train pass over the bridge above the falls—an iconic view that added an extra element of charm to our experience.
There are multiple ways to see Dudhsagar Falls. Apart from the jeep safari, you can also trek through the forest and along railway tracks, which starts from Kulem. However, it’s best to travel in groups for safety. Another option is to take a train that passes by the falls, although the stops are brief, allowing only a quick glimpse of the waterfall.
Exploring the Watchtower
After visiting the falls, we made our way back to the jeep drop-off point and climbed up to the nearby watchtower. From there, we enjoyed panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the distant falls—a perfect way to wrap up our Dudhsagar experience.
Tips for Travelers
- Best Time to Visit: Both Harvalem and Dudhsagar Falls are best experienced during the monsoon season (June to September), when the water flow is at its peak and the surrounding scenery is lush and vibrant.
- Entry Fees: For Dudhsagar Falls, a forest entry fee of ₹100 per person is required, and renting a life jacket costs ₹40 each. The Jeep ride cost 1920 per person as the number of people were less in our ride.
- Travel Options for Dudhsagar: The jeep safari is the most popular way to reach Dudhsagar Falls, but you can also opt for a forest trek from Kulem or take a train ride that offers a fleeting view of the falls.
Conclusion
Our adventure to Harvalem and Dudhsagar Falls provided a unique perspective on Goa, revealing a side of this beautiful state that goes beyond its famous beaches and bustling streets. The beauty of these waterfalls, surrounded by greenery, history, and adventure, made it an experience we’ll never forget.
We hope you enjoyed reading about our experience exploring these hidden gems of Goa. If you’re planning a trip to Goa, don’t forget to add these incredible waterfalls to your itinerary. Stay tuned for more travel stories and adventures!
Safe travels, and see you in the next journey!
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