Surla is Goa's summer retreat for nature lovers

Samrudhdi Kerkar

PACE IN PEACE

Surla, one of Goa’s highest villages in Sattari taluka, situated at the height of 811 m above sea level, is a monsoon paradise. But, even in summer, it is a refreshing retreat for nature lovers.

Surla in Summer| Goa| Nature | Western Ghats | Unexplored | Forest trail | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

SACRED ABODE

The Surlachi Rai sacred grove, wrapped in lush greenery, provides a peaceful escape into nature’s quiet sanctuary.

Surla in Summer| Goa| Nature | Western Ghats | Unexplored | Sacred grove | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

COLOURFUL FOLIAGE

A walk through the forest is met with the colourful, fragrant crunch of fallen leaves, showcasing the region’s rich diversity.

Surla in Summer| Goa| Nature | Western Ghats | Unexplored | Biodiverse | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

FRAGRANT JUNGLE

The jungle bursts with colours and aromas, with flowers like Anjan-Kunjan filling the air with their scent.

Surla in Summer| Goa| Nature | Western Ghats | Unexplored | Flowers | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

TANGY TREATS

Wild fruits along the way offer a tangy taste of the forest, deepening one’s connection with nature.

Surla in Summer| Goa| Nature | Western Ghats | Unexplored | Forest fruits | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

BIRD LOVERS' PARADISE

A hotspot for avian diversity, Surla is home to many birds, including the Malabar Grey Hornbill.

Surla in Summer| Goa| Nature | Western Ghats | Unexplored | Birdlife | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

HIDE AND SEEK

The forest hides masters of disguise. Some creatures lie in wait to ambush prey, while others, like the leaf mantis, camouflage with leaves to hide from predators.

Surla in Summer| Goa| Nature | Western Ghats | Unexplored | Forest creatures | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

ALIVE NIGHTS

As night falls, the forest comes to life, with Nightjars and other nocturnal creatures taking centre stage.

Surla in Summer| Goa| Nature | Western Ghats | Unexplored | Nocturnal | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

SIGNS OF CAUTION

One must be cautious while entering the forest. Pits dug by bears, seeking coolness from the earth, serve as warning signs of their strong presence in the area.

Surla in Summer| Goa| Nature | Western Ghats | Unexplored | Bears | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

UNTAMED FOOTPRINTS

The forest is home to gaurs, bears and leopards, their footprints marking their dominance as bold signatures.

Surla in Summer| Goa| Nature | Western Ghats | Unexplored | Forest footprints | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

NEXT: Step away from the city, and discover Goan village charm