Explore the majesty of Goa's quiet flowing rivers

IN SHADOWS OF ITS BEACHES

Did you know the navigable length of 253 km (157 miles) of Goa’s rivers is bigger than its coastline of around 105 (65 miles)? Yes, an extensive riverine world, overshadowed by its beaches, exists here.

BABBLING & GURGLING

The coastal State’s main rivers are the Mandovi, the Zuari, the Terekhol, Chapora River and the Sal. These rivers, along with their tributaries, babble and gurgle through Goa offering breathtaking views.

SNAKING RIVERS

Goa’s major twin rivers – the Mandovi (in North Goa) and the Zuari (in South Goa) – and their tributaries drain 69 percent of its geographical area as they snake through hills, forests, villages and cities.    

MHADEI TO MANDOVI

Mandovi’s journey begins as Mhadei in Karnataka, covering 35 km before entering Goa. She, then, flows, tumbles, gushes and trickles over 82 km to embrace the Arabian Sea at Miramar.  

STUFF OF RIVERINE DREAMS

Her grandeur never leaves her as she flows through Cumbarjua, Divar and Chorao, swirling, creating riverine islands with scenic views and all the stuff of dreams. Her beauty in Sattari and the Western Ghats is enthralling.

BLISSFULLY ZUARI

Zuari drops off from the Western Ghats, winding through forests and hills. A boat ride on the swollen river feels blissfully transcendence. She sweeps through mangroves full of crocodiles and exotic birds.

SPIRITUAL TRANSENDENCE

After quenching the thirst of fields and orchards, she vanishes into the depth of the Arabian Sea at Mormugao and Dona Paula. She has witnessed Goa’s history and past on its banks dotted with ancient churches and temples.

COURSE CHANGE

So, the next time you’re in Goa, get off the beaten track of beaches to explore its riverine wonder that’ll take you to another world.  

NEXT: Discover serenity through a river boating experience in Agonda