Swap the beach for binoculars; explore Nanda Lake’s birds in Goa

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NANDA LAKE

Goa’s first, and only Ramsar site, Nanda Lake, is situated in Quepem’s Curchorem village, covering an area of about 0.42 sq km.

Goa | Curchorem | Quepem | Nanda Lake | Ramsar site | river | Photo: Fianka Barreto

BIODIVERSITY BOUNTY

Designated as Ramsar Site No. 2471, this lake is a preview of the rich biodiversity that is found in the Western Ghats.

Goa | Curchorem | Quepem | Nanda Lake | Western Ghats | Ramsar site | Photo: Fianka Barreto

THE GIVING LAKE

Nanda Lake is a vital reservoir, serving as a key source of irrigation during the dry season. It is also popular for recreational activities such as fishing and birdwatching.

Goa | Curchorem | Birdwatching | Nanda Lake | Reservoir | Photo: Fianka Barreto

HOME SWEET HOME

Nanda Lake is home to a wide range of flora and fauna and is especially known for drawing migratory birds. Bird watchers often flock to this site, cameras in hand and lenses ready to capture avian activity.

Goa | Ecosystem | Quepem | Nanda Lake | Migratory birds | Ramsar site | Photo: Fianka Barreto

BEYOND BIRDS

Many visitors flock to this spot — some to enjoy a quiet evening, others to photograph birds in their natural habitat. In recent times, it’s also become a popular destination for photoshoots.

Goa | Curchorem | Nature | Bird-watching | Western Ghat | Ramsar site | Photo: Fianka Barreto

WATER WORKS

Besides being a biodiversity hotspot, this lake helps recharge groundwater, acts as a sediment sink, purifies water, and plays a key role in flood control.

Goa | Curchorem | Nanda Lake | Groundwater recharging | Ramsar site | Photo: Fianka Barreto

PERFECT TIMING

It’s best to visit during the monsoon season when the lake is full and surrounded by vibrant greenery, creating a truly refreshing and scenic experience.

Goa | Curchorem | Monsoon getaway | Nanda Lake | Western Ghat | Ramsar site | Photo: Fianka Barreto

DO NOT DISTURB

While entry is free, visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism by respecting the flora and fauna, and helping preserve the lake’s biodiversity and ecosystems.

Goa | Curchorem | Bird-watching | Nanda Lake | Responsible Tourism | Ramsar site | Photo: Fianka Barreto

HANDLE WITH CARE

While many see this spot as a recreational retreat, it’s important to remember that it’s a natural sanctuary that must be treated with care and respect.

Goa | Curchorem | Quepem | Nanda Lake | Western Ghat | Ramsar site | Photo: Fianka Barreto

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