5-Day Nature Itinerary in Goa (July 2023)

1. Day 1: Dudhsagar Falls
   1 hr 30 mins (47.7 km) from Goa International Airport

   Start your day early and head to Dudhsagar Falls, the fourth tallest waterfall in India. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool and explore the lush surroundings with a guided trek. In the afternoon, try some local seafood at the nearby restaurants. In the evening, relax by the falls and witness the sunset.

2. Day 2: Mollem National Park
   40 mins (21.7 km) from Dudhsagar Falls

   Today, explore the Mollem National Park, home to a variety of flora and fauna. Take a safari ride to see the park's famous residents, such as the Bengal tiger and Indian bison. Visit the Tambdi Surla Temple, a 12th-century shrine hidden in the park's dense jungle. In the evening, head to the nearby Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary for more wildlife sightings.

3. Day 3: Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
   1 hr 10 mins (35.7 km) from Mollem National Park

   Start your day with a bird-watching tour at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, named after India's most famous ornithologist. Spot some of the sanctuary's 400 bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and storks. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the wetlands and mangroves. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Dona Paula Beach for some sun and sand. End your day with a sunset cruise on the Mandovi River.

4. Day 4: Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hr 20 mins (61.4 km) from Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

   Visit the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most pristine and peaceful wildlife sanctuaries in Goa. Take a guided trek to see the sanctuary's rich biodiversity, including the Indian pangolin, slender loris, and giant squirrels. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the sanctuary's lush greenery. In the evening, head to the nearby Palolem Beach for some seafood and drinks.

5. Day 5: Tambdi Surla Waterfall
   1 hr 20 mins (46.6 km) from Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

   End your trip with a visit to Tambdi Surla Waterfall, a hidden gem in the Western Ghats. Take a dip in the natural pool and relax amidst the serene surroundings. Visit the nearby Tambdi Surla Temple, a beautifully preserved 12th-century shrine. In the afternoon, head back to Panaji for some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Recommendations

Explore the quiet village of Chorao, home to the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and the Chorao Island Crocodile Sanctuary. Take a day trip to the nearby Dudh Sagar Plantation and enjoy a spice tour amidst the verdant plantation. For the adventure seekers, try a trek to the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary or a dolphin-watching tour at the Arabian Sea.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Dudhsagar Falls (4 hrs, INR 400 per person)
• Mollem National Park (5 hrs, INR 700 per person)
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (3 hrs, INR 500 per person)
• Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary (6 hrs, INR 600 per person)
• Tambdi Surla Waterfall (4 hrs, INR 200 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,400 per person

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