Surla Waterfall Itinerary: Complete Travel Guide.

If you are looking for a natural wonder in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, near the Goa-Karnataka border, you should not miss the Surla waterfalls. These are a series of stunning falls that offer a thrilling experience for trekkers and a serene view for nature enthusiasts. You can also explore the rich flora and fauna of the dense forest around the waterfalls.

Overview of Surla Waterfall

• Location: Satari, North Goa District, Near the Karnataka and Goa Border
• Entry Fee: There is no entry fee for visiting Surla Waterfall.
• Opening Hour: Surla Waterfall is open 24 hours a day.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Surla Waterfall is during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.
• Nearest Town/City: The closest town to Surla Waterfall is Satari, which is 27 km away. The nearest city is Belagavi, which is 47 km away.
• Nearest Railway Station: Belagavi Railway Station (47 km)
• Nearest Airport: Belagavi Airport (61 km)
• Nearby Attractions: There are waterfalls in Jalavane, Shimbola, Hivrem, Sada, and other places.

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What to expect at Surla waterfall

Surla waterfall is a beautiful cascade located near the border of Goa and Karnataka in India. It is also known as Sural Falls or Ladkyacho Vozar, meaning Falls of the Beloved. It is about 300 feet tall and surrounded by dense forests and wildlife. Some of the things you can expect at Surla waterfall are:

• Trekking: The waterfall is accessible by a moderate trek of about 1.5 hours through the jungle. You can enjoy the scenic views of nature and spot some rare snakes and birds along the way. You can also visit the nearby Surla Temple, which is one of the oldest temples in Goa.
• Bathing: The waterfall has a pool at its base where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool water. You can take a shower under the waterfall and feel the force of the falling water on your body. It is a great way to relax and rejuvenate after the trek.
• Picnic: The waterfall is perfect for a picnic with friends or family. You can bring your food and drinks and enjoy them in the shade of the trees. You can also explore nearby attractions such as Jalavane Waterfalls, Shimbola Waterfall, Hivrem Waterfall, and Sada Waterfall.

Best Time to Visit Surla Waterfall

The best times to see Surla Waterfall are during and after the rainy season. When a lot of water flows, the land is green and lush. 

• Monsoon Season (June to September):

The best time to see Surla Waterfall in all its glory is during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. When it rains, the falling water rises, making a loud, roaring sound and mist that dances in the air. The Western Ghats in the area are full of bright green plants, making the walk to the falls a beautiful natural experience. The paths can be tricky when wet and slick, but the monsoon walk is a unique experience for those who are okay with getting dirty.

• Post-Monsoon (October to January):

The rain stops, showing clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Now is the perfect time to have lunch by the waterfall and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The water level stays high enough to swim and cool off in the pool at the base of the falls. The paths become less wet, making walking more accessible and better for families and older travelers.

• Dry Season (February to May):

The waterfall changes into a gentle flow, creating a peaceful space for reflection and meditation. Now is the best time to see animals and birds entering the last water source. Going into the caves and temples around the area is easy with less water.

When you should go to Surla Waterfall depends on what you like. If you want fresh air and many trees, the rain is the time for you. It’s nice outside and fun to be on the water after the rain. And if you want quiet and to see wildlife, the dry season might be best.

2-Day Itinerary of Surla Waterfall

To make the most of your trip, I suggest you follow this 2-day itinerary that covers some of the nearby attractions of Surla Waterfall:

How to Reach Surla Waterfall Goa

There are several ways to reach Surla Waterfall in Goa, depending on your budget, preferred mode of transportation, and level of physical activity. Here are some options:

In a car/taxi:

• This is the most convenient option, especially if you’re coming from far away.
• The drive from Panjim, Goa’s capital, takes around 2 hours.
• From Margao, another major city in Goa, it takes approximately 1.30 hours.
• You can either rent a car or hire a taxi for the trip.
• Google Maps will give you the best route, depending on your starting point.

By bus:

• It is a more budget-friendly option but will take longer than driving.
• Buses from Panjim and Margao run to Mollem, the nearest town to the waterfall.
• From Mollem, you’ll need to take a shared taxi or autorickshaw to the temple and then trek for 1.5-2 hours to reach the waterfall.
• The total travel time can be 3-4 hours, depending on connections.

By train:

• Dudhsagar Station, Castle Rock Station, and Kulem Station are the nearest railway stations.
• However, these stations are quite far from the waterfall, and you’ll need to hire a jeep or taxi from there to reach Mollem and then follow the same route as buses.
• This option may only be the most convenient if you want a train journey.

Trekking:

• For the adventurous souls, there’s a scenic 5-km trek from the Mahadev Temple in Mollem to the waterfall.
• This trek takes around 2–3 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding forest.
• This option is not recommended for children or older adults, as the path can be steep and slippery during monsoon season.

What should I carry to Surla Waterfall?

Surla Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall near the border of Goa and Karnataka in India. You must trek through the dense forest for about 90 minutes to visit this waterfall. Here are some things you should carry to Surla Waterfall:

• One that has enough drinks, snacks, and a first-aid kit in it.
• Comfortable clothes and shoes that are suitable for trekking and bathing.
• Something to protect you from the rain, since it might rain during the rainy season.
• A camera or a smartphone to capture the scenic views of the waterfall and the surrounding nature.
• Wear comfortable clothes that are suitable for trekking. Avoid loose-fitting clothing that could snag on bushes.
• Leave valuables and expensive items at your accommodation.
• Pack light, as you’ll be carrying your backpack during the trek.
• Take care of the environment and don’t leave any signs of your stay.
• Be prepared for minor cuts or scrapes.