Goa is one of India’s most famous tourist destinations, however, there are still many areas that remain untouched by visitors.
Whether you’re travelling from another country or another state in India, you’ll recognise Goa as an incredible tropical vacation. Travellers constantly tell us about the beach parties that took place in Goa. Surprisingly, there is a tranquil area in Goa where you can get away from the crowds and enjoy the view. Do you want to know what that place is and where it is in Goa? Continue reading!
The beautiful Indian state of Goa has several tourist attractions, one of which is to venture beyond the vacation beaches. The Salaulim Dam is a one-of-a-kind site in Goa that should not be missed, especially during the rainy season. You’ve probably seen photos of the spectacular Salaulim Dam shared by local tourists. However, you may have assumed that something does not exist in Goa and is located in another state of India.
Salaulim Dam, tucked away in south-eastern Goa, balances being a critical component in the state’s irrigation and drinking water distribution system and an advanced engineering marvel. With its cascading water spray, lush surrounding gardens, and stunning photo possibilities, it’s a sight to behold during the monsoons.
How to reach the Goa-Salaulim Dam?
Given the poor quality and nature of the roads leading to the destination, a two-wheeler is your best chance for transport. This could be one of several unexplained reasons why the dam is visited by so few tourists and locals throughout the year.
The dam is about 30 kilometres from the shore, with Sanguem being the closest recognised Goan town (around five km away).
More about the Dam:
The dam is erected on a stream of the Zuari River. It lowers to about 140 feet in height. The structure’s curled rim-like shape provides abundant area and force to the water rushing downwards as well as a breathtaking sight to the few people it hosts every day. It gives a wonderful reminder that the Arabian Sea isn’t the only type of water body in Goa susceptible to such stunning force.
The dam release is an ungated structure of the Duckbill type, with water falling to roughly 50 feet at the first level and then again to a depth of 100 feet to reach the Salaulim River beneath. You may also walk over a kilometer-long overpass and enjoy views of the green and serene waterways on one side of the dam and the beautiful gardens on the other. The Botanical Garden, which offers access to the Bridge, is home to a variety of plants and trees.
A few signboards around the area state unequivocally that photography was not permitted in the area. But you shouldn’t let that discourage you. The law appears to have been impotent amid the dam’s deafening yet peaceful aura. Indeed, the visual splendour of the site is certain to inspire even the most inexperienced photographers to short moments of mastery behind the camera.
When to visit?
While everyone else dismisses the Goan monsoons as “off-season” for a vacation, pack your things and make plans to visit the Goa-Salaulim dam during the rainfall. Despite the intermittent showers along the way, the roads remain mostly empty. And this promises a pleasant and scenic drive. Bring a jacket with you to keep the weather out and make sure you carry your photo ID for entry.
Remember that the dam is open from 9 pm to 6 pm, and the access fee is INR 20. Pack a picnic basket and spend the day in the Botanical Gardens on the other side of the dam. Before calling it a day, stop for lunch in Benaulim and watch the sunset at Agonda beach. And then, your South Goa day is all set.
