Are you a nature lover looking for an adventure far away from the crowd? Something that's equally surrounded by greenery and water to beat the scorching heat of the sunny state. Then get ready to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Arvalem Waterfalls. Tucked away close to the Maharashtra border but very much in Goa, these falls also known as Harvalem falls have got to be your next spot on that Goa list.
But are you wondering how to reach Harvalem Falls in the first place? It’s very simple. Just fly into Goa, preferably the Mopa airport over Dabolim because of the distance. And then you can travel by bus to reach a major city like Mapusa, Panjim or Margao to Bicholim or Sanquelim before finally heading to the falls. While that might be easy on your pocket it may also be very time consuming and draining in the summers. So, the best way would be to get a taxi, so that you don't have to worry about directions or parking wherever you are. You can also rent a self-drive if you prefer to stop along the way and not stress about the clock. Bike rides can be fun too but may be better passed on in the rains.
The best time to visit is obviously after the monsoons between August and September as the waterfall is gushing and the lake is all swelled up. It also makes it a good time to swim unlike the monsoon when you can't take a dip due to the strong torrents and the colour of the water is muddy brown. There is lush greenery around which is refreshing. But the falls pretty much dry up during the summer. There is water in the lake where you can cool down by dipping in, but that's pretty much it.
The timings of Arvalem falls are 9 AM to 6 PM every day and the best part is that the entry to the falls is free of charge. So, it is pretty much a whole day's trip best done with friends or family. A date at this 50m high and 7m wide waterfall is fun idea too.
Just carry an umbrella, no matter what season it is. Because as you check out the falls, you’ll feel a sprinkle of water on you. Additionally, do carry wet bags, rubber shoes, mosquito repellent and travel in comfortable shoes to make it a fun trip. Pass on carrying heavy luggage or keep in mind elderlies and children as there are stairs to climb.
Do carry your own bottle to avoid single use PET bottles but don’t worry about carrying food, as you can grab a meal at JK Restaurant and Bar or Royal Retreat. Both restaurants serve Goan thalis and various local dishes like xacuti and cafreal a la carte. And if Goan food isn't your thing, check out their North Indian and Chinese specialities. They have got something for everyone.
Did you know the Arvalem falls are popular for movie shoots? Yes, but there’s a whole lot more to see, from the old arched bridge to the Rudreshwar temple. Walk over the old arched bridge right by the falls to catch the best views of falls and capture memories for a lifetime. Walk a little further and you will find the Recreation Centre developed by the Government. Sit there in the park, have a little picnic with your favourite people and immerse yourself in the stunning views of the waterfall.
The Rudreshwar temple is another popular site in walking distance. It has an ancient linga of Lord Shiva who was locally known as Rudreshwar, facing the waterfalls. During Shivratri, this temple gets very crowded, and the festivities are grand. The temple premises also house a space for last rites of the deceased to be held as releasing the soul here on the 12th day is important for the Hindus.
Arvalem caves have laterite stone walls are also known as Pandava caves. They are located in walking distance from the falls. Hello history buffs! You cannot miss the stories here from the 6th century. Apart from getting the name from the falls, it is believed that the Pandavas took shelter while they were on the 12-year exile as per the Mahabharata. The caves were in fact carved by the Buddhist monks. However, recently the British colonial Government had the Rajput mercenaries known as Ranes live here.
The nearest town is Sanquelim for any necessities. But if you are craving an adventure after all that peace, check out Mayem lake. Apart from scenic views, they also hold one of the best bungee jumping spots in Goa. Whereas in Valpoi you can even go white water rafting.
So Arvalem Falls has just so much to offer, for people with all kinds of interests, from nature to temples and adventure. And with it just being a short trip from anywhere in Goa, its well-done last minute too. Don’t miss it while you are in this tropical paradise.
