Rivers and lakes in Goa

The beaches and parties get all the attention in Goa. But away from the beaches, there are many other fabulous attractions, like Goa’s backwaters, for example. Goa has 11 rivers and 42 smaller tributaries. These water bodies along with the many lakes form the backwaters of Goa. In India, most people associate backwaters with the state of Kerala. Goa’s backwaters are equally beautiful, if not more, because they are not yet commercialized. In many places, the rivers are surrounded by hills. You will see swaying palm trees, coconut groves, traditional homes, beautiful churches, and rice fields. You can see many species of birds, bats, crocodiles, and even dolphins. There are mangrove swamps and forests like the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, which is one of the largest homes of birds in India. The Goa backwaters are indeed stunningly beautiful.

You can get breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. You can enjoy a laid-back cruise. Sail lazily and enjoy the stunning natural beauty. You will get to see a different side of Goa. A kayak trip will take you closer to the birds. Adventure tourists can enjoy whitewater rafting in the monsoon months. And like Kerala, there are houseboat tours as well.

The biggest rivers are Sal, Tiracol, Chapora, Baga, Mandovi, Zuari, Saleri, Talpona, and Galgibaga. The basins of Mandovi and Zuari occupy an area of 2553 square kilometers, which is about 70% of the area of Goa. The navigable rivers of Goa cover an area of 253 kilometers.

Chapora River Backwaters

Chapora River is in North Goa. Originating from the neighboring Maharashtra state, it meets the Arabian Sea between the beaches of Vagator and Morjim. There are many islands close to the bay like River Island, Rogue Island, and Sentinel Island. The Anjuna River meets Chapora close to Uddo Beach. Further upstream, there is a huge mangrove area where you can see many birds. Birding and crocodile trips are held here. Photo walking tours and kayaking expeditions are also organized. A little up the river, there is Dolphin Island. You have a real chance of seeing dolphins here.

Mandovi River Backwaters

Mandovi River meets the sea and Panaji. Sunset cruises and evening cruises leave from the Panaji jetty. Many private luxury cruises leave from the other side of the river. Sail under the Atal Setu Bridge to visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and the nearby Divar Island. Nature and adventure lovers will enjoy the narrow water channels of the bird sanctuary. Diver has many authentic Goan villages, churches, and temples. On the opposite bank of the river, there is Old Goa and its many UNESCO Heritage sites.

Sal River

Kayaking in the backwaters of the Sal will be a unique experience. This stunning river in South Goa meets the Arabian Sea at Mobor Beach. Its narrow waterways will also take you deep into yet another mangrove. You can see red and white lotus flowers and many migratory birds, bats, and otters. The river widens just before meeting the sea. You can see dolphins in the sea and on the bay area. Visit a working fishing boat. You can also visit Betul Fort and Betul Temple.

Cumbarjua Backwater Canal

This is a 15-kilometer long distributor channel that connects the Mandovi and Zuari rivers. Enjoy a backwater cruise through the canal’s mangrove marshes and trees. You can see Indian Mugger crocodiles sunbathing on the banks. You can also see flying fish and many birds. Along the narrow creek, you will see many villages with their traditional homes. This is authentic Goa, away from the touristy areas.

Goa Backwater Activities

• Kayaking
• Houseboats
• Sailing
• Luxury yacht cruises
• Fishing
• Visit Old Goa
• Visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
• See crocodiles, birds, bats
• Sunset cruises
• Walking tours