Discover a sacred 'rai' deep in a prehistoric forest in Goa

WHERE NATURE AND DIVINITY INTERTWINE

In the coastal paradise of Goa, where sun-kissed beaches meet lush green forests, there's a concept of 'sacred groves' (traditionally protected patches of forest, preserved in the name of God).

ANCIENT ROOTS, ETERNAL SPIRIT

‘Nirankarachi Rai’, a sacred grove in the village of Maloli, is a prehistoric forest that dates back to the age of dinosaurs. It showcases beautiful facets of Goa’s ecological heritage.

FOREST GUARDIAN

While entering the Rai, you’re likely to be greeted by one of its charming dwellers — the Malabar Giant Squirrel (shekro) —scampering playfully among the treetops.

CALM IN THE CHAOS

Even during the peak afternoon hours, the sun-dappled pathways, surrounded by towering trees like Caryota urens and Crocodile Bark Tree, exude a calming energy that washes over you.

MYSTICAL REALM OF MYRISTICA

This Rai is home to a unique ecosystem — the Myristica swamp vegetation, known for its distinctive U-shaped, upturned roots that resemble miniature rollercoasters.

ENDANGERED ECOSYSTEM

Once widespread across the Konkan, this rare vegetation is now fragmented and endangered, surviving only in small patches like this one in Goa.

A BREATHING BIO-HAVEN

The forest remains damp throughout the year. With a thick cover of trees and constant leaf litter, the area becomes a thriving habitat for ants, reptiles, insects and worms.

PARADISE FOR NYMPHS

This sacred grove is also a rich abode for Goa’s State butterfly, the Malabar Tree Nymph, often seen hovering gracefully like a delicate nymph descending from the heavens into paradise.

SPRING OF LIFE

A perennial spring flows through the forest, offering thirst-quenching water. Locals believe this water holds medicinal properties and visit the grove to collect it for drinking.

SIGNS OF PURITY

The trees are covered in a rich green lichen — an indicator of the pristine and untouched nature of this forest patch.

THE FORMLESS DIVINE

The word, nirankar, means 'formless', something that cannot be seen but only felt. It is the god that resides in nature itself. However, a small shrine has now been built near the Rai.

NATURE’S EMBRACE

Beyond its spiritual essence, the sacred grove protects rich biodiversity. In its serene stillness, under ancient trees and birdsong, one feels deeply connected to the universe.

NEXT: In Goa, there's a sacred hue in nature, called 'keshari'