Goa has a number of pristine waterfalls that visitors from all over the world look forward to visiting. Among these, Kesarval Waterfall is a relatively small spring that visitors often miss out on. But this waterfall presents a beautiful sight during the monsoon season. The waters are believed to have medicinal properties and aid the healing process of several diseases. This waterfall is located in the Cortalim Village of Goa and the source of this waterfall is the Zurai river. There are also many places to visit near the Kesarval Waterfall that should be on your list when you visit Goa for a holiday.
Quick Details About Kesarval Waterfall
Elevation: 90 feet
Where To Stay: The Fern Kesarval Hotel and Spa, Kesarval Garden Retreat
Where To Eat: Jess Family Restaurant and Bar, Antique Mardol Restaurant, Filsu’s Restaurant
Kesarval Waterfall Timings: 24*7
Best Time To Visit Kesarval Waterfall: June to September
Kesarval Waterfall Location
Photo: JB Kalola (patel) / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Kesarval Spring Verna Waterfalls is located in Quelossim in Goa. It is situated very close to the quaint village of Cortalim. The capital city of Panaji in Goa is located 22 km away from this waterfall and this region is close to the Verna plateau.
Suggested Read: Explore The Top Places To Visit Near Goa For An Unforgettable Adventure
How To Reach Kesarval Waterfall
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Take the Panjim Margao Highway. Proceed with crossing the Zuari River Bridge and go to Cortalim.
By Bus: You can take a bus from Panaji KTC Bus Stand to the Kesarval Gardens Bus Stand. The local bus rides take around 19 minutes.
By Train: The Madgaon Railway Station is the closest to this waterfall. It is located at a distance of 18 kms. From here, it will take you 30 minutes to reach the waterfall.
By Air: The airport closest to Kesarval Waterfall is the Dabolim Airport, from where it will take you 25 minutes to reach the waterfall. You can also travel to the waterfall via the Manohar International Airport in Mopa. From here, it will take you an hour to reach.
Things To Do At Kesarval Waterfall
You can find a number of enjoyable things to do at the Kesarval Waterfall. Here is a list of activities you can choose from.
1. Trekking
Photo: JosepMonter / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Kesarval Waterfall is surrounded by forests on all sides and provides an adventurous trekking experience. A lot of visitors choose the Panaji-Margao route for their treks. You can also follow a number of other trek routes that are designated by organisations. Though climbing up may be exhausting at first, the view at the waterfall will surely make it worth the while. There is also a designated staircase that leads visitors to the waterfall, to ease the journey. You can also take Kesarval Waterfall photos when you reach this scenic spot.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Goa In Monsoon For A Scenic Escapade
2. Wildlife Spotting
Photo: JonPauling / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Located in a dense forest of the Verna plateau, the area adjoining the Kesarval Waterfall is rich in diverse flora and fauna. While embarking on your trekking journey, you will find a lot of monkeys and squirrels on your way. It is the perfect place for nature enthusiasts. A lot of beautiful birds including eagles can also be seen in this area. You can also find a number of vibrantly coloured butterflies around the waterfall.
Places To Visit Around Kesarval Waterfall
There are many tourist attractions and places to visit around this waterfall like serene beaches, churches and more.
1. Siridao Beach
Photo: abcdz2000 / Wikimedia Commons
This beautiful beach is located on an island called Tiswadi, which is one of many talukas of Goa. This beach is identified by three statues playing various instruments along with a dog, at its entrance. These figures are carved out of stone. It is believed that a giant man-like creature used to live here and was locally referred to as ‘Paulist.’ The Siridao Beach has quite rugged terrain, consisting of uneven rocks and coarse sand. The mouth of the Zuari river is found at this beach. You can find a diverse variety of shells on this beach.
Distance From Kesarval Waterfall: 11 kms
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Top Beaches In Goa For A Fun-Filled And Sunny Vacation
2. The Chapel of Nazareth Jesus
Photo: mittalpatel / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
This chapel is located in the village of Siridao on top of a hill. From here, you can get a panoramic view of the Zuari River. This chapel is of great significance to the Christian community of Goa. During the Pejechem Feast or the Annunciation of Our Lady Feast, a lot of visitors and devotees gather at this chapel to mark the sacred occasion after Easter. The façade of the chapel follows a colour scheme of teal and white, radiating serenity and comfort amidst visitors. The church is located amidst a picturesque landscape and stands as a small but significant architectural wonder in Goa.
Distance From Kesarval Waterfall: 12.3 kms
Timings: 6 AM – 4:30 PM
3. New Zuari Bridge
Photo: joegoauk34 / Wikimedia Commons
If you have ever wondered how South Goa and North Goa are interlinked, then this bridge is your answer. As the name suggests, this bridge is built on the significant Zuari river, connecting the two most important parts of Goa. The bridge is a cable-styled one and is 640m long. It is the second longest of its kind in the country. Steel pylons, as high as 125m have been used to build this bridge. The bridge is very well maintained and brightly lit after sunset. It is an architectural marvel of the modern times and significantly reduces travel time.
Distance From Kesarval Waterfall: 4.5 kms
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Goa Art Museums For Every Aesthete To Explore At Least Once
4. Velsao Beach
Photo: belyakovacat / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
This beach is known for its pure white sand and crystal clear waters. It is visited by tourists from all around the world. One of the star attractions at this beach is the Three Kings Church. If you are looking for serenity and solitude, then this beach is perfect for you. It is much less crowded than most other beaches in Goa. The beach is lined with coconut trees which add an element of freshness to the environment. The beach is bordered by the Bogmalo beach, the Majorda beach and the Colva Beach on three sides.
Distance From Kesarval Waterfall: 8kms
Timings: 24*7
5. Se Cathedral
Photo: Danny Burke / Wikimedia Commons
This Cathedral is also known as Sé Cathedral de Santa Catarina. It is one of the most important churches and convents in Goa and is also considered a World Heritage Site. The cathedral owes its origin to the 17th century CE. The cathedral is built in a Gothic style, with Portuguese -Manueline elements. The main attraction here is the large Golden Bell which is believed to be the largest of its kind in Goa. The altar at this cathedral is in dedication to Catherine of Alexandria. You can also spot gilded reredos at the top of the altar.
Distance From Kesarval Waterfall: 18 kms
Timings: 7 AM – 6:30 PM
Suggested Read: Things To Do In South Goa With Family On Your Next Trip
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ben_Kerckx / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Carry a pair of binoculars while travelling to Kesarval Waterfall. This will help you in spotting birds and animals even from a distance.
- If you know how to drive a two wheeler, then renting it in Goa is the best option. A lot of visitors choose two wheelers for a comfortable experience in Goa.
- Wear waterproof and sturdy shoes when you are visiting the waterfall. This will give you a good grip over the slippery surfaces surrounding the waterfall.
- Do not litter the vicinity of the waterfall. It is recommended that you respect the environment in order to make your travelling experience a responsible one.
Kesarval Waterfall is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Goa, especially during the monsoon season when it is well fed by rainwater. There are also a number of tourist attractions around the waterfall that provide for a memorable travelling experience. If you are planning a trip to this waterfall in Goa, do not forget to choose TripXL for your bookings.
Cover Photo: nicolasjaegergaard / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only