Discovering Salaulim Dam: Goa’s Best-Kept Secret Beyond the Beaches
Confession time: My Goa trips always followed the same old script—beach-hopping, indulging in amazing food, shopping sprees, and, of course, endless beer (because, Goa). Venturing beyond the beaches? That idea never even crossed my mind. But then, those irresistible Instagram reels started popping up, showing off a place that looked straight out of a storybook—Salaulim Dam. Naturally, I had to check it out. Spoiler alert: it absolutely lives up to the hype. Sprawled across a massive 24-square-kilometer area, Salaulim Dam was a complete change of pace from the usual beach vibes I’m used to in Goa. 5 kilometers from Sanguem Town, it’s perched on the Salaulim River, a tributary of the Zuari, and supplies drinking water to all of South Goa. Practical? Yes. Stunning? Absolutely. But what really stole the show for me was its unique design and natural beauty. The spillway, shaped like a duckbill (seriously, I Googled it before going—it’s fascinating), sends water cascading in the most mesmerizing semi-circular flow. The water plunges 50 feet, then takes another dramatic 100-foot dive into a deep gorge, creating a misty spray that fills the air. Standing nearby, I couldn’t help but laugh as the cool droplets soaked me—it was such a fun and unexpected experience. Before You Go: Don’t forget your photo ID (they’ll check at the entrance). The dam is open from 9 AM to 6 PM, and the entry fee is just INR 60— If, like me, you’ve been sticking to Goa’s beaches and are craving something different, Salaulim Dam is the perfect escape. It’s peaceful, gorgeous, and gives you a whole new side of Goa to fall in love with.
Rubal Saluja
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Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary Goa: Discover Goa’s Untouched Natural Paradise
Goa may be synonymous with sun-kissed beaches and vibrant nightlife, but on my recent visit, inspired by endless recommendations, I swapped my beach towel for an adventure I had never truly experienced before. What unfolded was a journey into the serene and secretive heart of Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, a paradise for nature lovers tucked away in South-Eastern Goa. Just a few kilometers from Canacona Market, the transformation was dramatic. The noise of city life was replaced by the gentle hum of the forest, and with every passing mile, the air grew fresher. I felt a strange sense of calm as the vibrant greens of Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary enveloped me. As I ventured deeper, sunlight struggled to penetrate the thick canopy, creating an enchanting twilight effect—a mystical experience that made midday feel magical. Spanning an impressive 211 sq. km, Netravali is one of India’s most significant wildlife sanctuaries, teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Towering mountains, gushing waterfalls, and lush green valleys define its untamed beauty. Among its star attractions are the Savari (Neturlim) Waterfall and Mainapi Falls, each offering a nature-packed adventure. The journey is an experience in itself—a thrilling 30-kilometer jungle ride, a hidden waterfall, a refreshing 1.5 km trek through the woods, and finally, the breathtaking sight of the towering falls. The sanctuary also boasts mysterious bubbling lakes and hills that host ancient shrines with religious significance. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, the sanctuary is best explored during the cool, vibrant months between October and March. Arrive early to fully immerse yourself in this untouched haven. (Be sure to confirm timings before your visit.) So, the next time you’re in Goa, give the beaches a break and let nature take center stage. Explore Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary—a hidden gem that promises a slice of paradise and memories you’ll cherish forever. PS: Unfortunately, due to my battery I missed capturing the main waterfall.
Rubal Saluja
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