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Goa, known for its stunning beaches, offers numerous attractions within a 50 km radius. Visit the tranquil Dudhsagar Falls, a majestic four-tiered waterfall perfect for nature lovers. Explore the historic charm of Old Goa, home to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Basilica of Bom Jesus. For a serene escape, head to the lesser-known Butterfly Beach or the peaceful Divar Island. These places to visit near Goa within 50 km offer a mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxation, ideal for short trips from Goa.
Best Places To Visit Near Goa Within 50 km
Here are some of the best places to visit near Goa within 50 km, for when you decide to take your next trip to Goa
1. Dudhsagar Falls
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Dudhsagar Falls, meaning “Sea of Milk,” is a majestic four-tiered waterfall located on the Mandovi River in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s one of India’s tallest waterfalls, with a height of 310 meters and an average width of 30 meters. The area around Dudhsagar is rich in biodiversity, home to various species of birds, butterflies, and animals, including the occasional sighting of leopards and tigers. For adventure enthusiasts, swimming in the pool at the base of the falls is a popular activity, though caution is advised due to strong currents.
Distance From Goa: Approximately 60 km
2. Tambdi Surla Temple
Photo: Josephdesousa / Wikimedia Commons
Tambdi Surla Temple is a 12th-century Shiva temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats. This ancient stone temple is the oldest known temple in Goa, having survived the Goa Inquisition and centuries of Portuguese rule. Built from basalt, the temple showcases intricate carvings and exquisite craftsmanship of the Kadamba-Yadava era. The temple’s architecture is a unique blend of Jain and Hindu styles, featuring a pillared porch, a tower, and a garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). The outer walls are adorned with beautiful carvings of Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, and Lord Shiva, along with various other deities and intricate floral designs.
Distance From Goa: About 65 km
3. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Rohanguj2 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem in South Goa, offering a pristine natural environment and rich biodiversity. Spread over an area of 211 square kilometres, this sanctuary is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exceptional biodiversity. The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. Visitors can spot animals such as the Indian bison (gaur), sloth bears, leopards, and various species of deer. The Netravali Bubbling Lake, a natural phenomenon where bubbles continuously rise to the water’s surface due to geothermal activity, is a unique attraction that shouldn’t be missed.
Distance From Goa: Approximately 60 km
4. Ancestral Goa
Photo: Basheer Olakara / Wikimedia Commons
Ancestral Goa, also known as the “BigFoot Museum,” is a unique open-air museum that offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Goan village life. Located in Loutolim, South Goa, this cultural park was created by local artist Maendra Jocelino Araujo Alvares to preserve and showcase Goan heritage. The centrepiece of Ancestral Goa is a life-size diorama of a traditional Goan village, complete with replicas of old houses, a village square, and various craftspeople at work. One of the main attractions is the “Big Foot” – a large footprint-shaped laterite rock carving that gives the museum its nickname.
Distance From Goa: About 10 km from Margao, South Goa.
5. Chapora Fort
Photo: Nikhilb239 / Wikimedia Commons
Chapora Fort, perched atop a hill overlooking the Chapora River and the Arabian Sea, is a 17th-century fort that offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. Made famous by the Bollywood movie “Dil Chahta Hai,” this fort has become a popular tourist destination in North Goa. Originally built by the ruler of Bijapur, Adil Shah, the fort was later captured and rebuilt by the Portuguese in 1617. The fort’s strategic location made it an important defence point against invasions from the Marathas and the Omanis. The surrounding area is dotted with cashew plantations, adding to the picturesque setting.
Distance From Goa: Approximately 10 km from Mapusa, North Goa.
6. Mollem National Park
Photo: JosephAssisFernandes / Wikimedia Commons
Mollem National Park, located in the Western Ghats, is a biodiversity hotspot covering an area of 240 square kilometres. This protected area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park boasts a variety of habitats, including moist deciduous forests, semi-evergreen forests, and tropical evergreen forests. This diversity supports a rich array of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, leopards, Indian bison (gaur), sambar deer, and over 200 species of birds. One of the main attractions within the park is the Dhangar nomad settlement, where visitors can learn about the traditional lifestyle of these indigenous people.
Distance From Goa: About 60 km from Panaji, Goa.
7. Arvalem Caves
Photo: Kavya Rastogi / Wikimedia Commons
The Arvalem Caves, also known as the Pandava Caves, are a group of 6th-century rock-cut caves located near the village of Sanquelim in North Goa. These ancient caves are shrouded in mystery and are believed to have been carved by Buddhist monks as a place of worship and meditation. The caves consist of five compartments cut into laterite rock, with the central cave housing a Shiva lingam. The architectural style of the caves shows influences of both Buddhist and Hindu traditions, reflecting the cultural synthesis of the region.
Distance From Goa: Approximately 35 km from Panaji, Goa.
8. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Aruna / Wikimedia Commons
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa, packs a wealth of biodiversity into its compact 8 square kilometre area. Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, this sanctuary offers visitors a chance to experience Goa’s rich flora and fauna in a more intimate setting. The sanctuary is home to various species of animals, including Indian bison (gaur), sambar deer, leopards, and several species of snakes. It’s particularly known for its bird population, with over 100 species of birds recorded, making it a favourite spot for birdwatchers. The sanctuary also features a botanical garden with a wide variety of plants, including medicinal herbs.
Distance From Goa: About 50 km from Panaji, Goa.
Exploring the areas around Goa within 50 km reveals hidden gems of nature, history, and tranquillity. From majestic waterfalls to serene beaches and historic sites, these destinations offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making them must-visit spots for anyone looking to experience the diverse beauty surrounding Goa. As you plan your next trip to Goa, let TripXL shoulder the burden of bookings and the best deals.
Cover Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
