Attractions
Dudhsager Falls
Dudhsager Falls are amongst the highest in India, with a drop of more than 600m (1,969ft), and they are at their most impressive during and soon after the monsoons. The Falls who name means 'sea of milk' - descend in stages across boulders and down rock faces, dividing and reuniting, and forming pools on the way. The journey into the nature reserve to get to the base of the falls is impressive. The off-road 4WD journey of almost 15km cost approximately 200 rupees and passes through river beds and dense forest cover. At the falls you will be greated by tame monkeys who will eat peanuts from your hand.
Boat trips
A number of operators offer boat trips for viewing dolphins and crocodiles along the rivers, fishing, bird watching and water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing and parasailing. The government has imposed safety regulations, including the provisions of life jackets for passengers, but it is best to see the boat before booking a trip. In the evenings, river cruises are offerd from Panji in open and semi-open launches, with stage performance of Goan music and dance.
Spice Plantations
There are spice plantations scattered all over India, where you can stock up with chilli, cardamom, turmeric, ginger, cumin, nutmeg, and coriander for your return journey. Alternatively, buy them at the markets. You may be pleased to know that according to the ancient canons of Indian medicine, the myriad of spices concealed in your meal are all working to improve your health. While the general combination stimulates the appetite and helps your digestion in this hot climate. Some of the individual spices have some surprising properties. Turmeric is very good for skin ailments, ginger for your liver and rheumatism. Cloves help the kidneys, relieve fevers and stimulates the heart. Coriander fights insomnia. One of the most versatile is cardamom, battling headaches and coughs.
Bird Sanctuary
This is Goa's only bird sanctuary, 2 Sq Km in area. A variety of local and migratory birds can be found on this island. On the western tip of the island of Chorao along River Mandovi, mangrove swamps cover this bird-watchers' paradise aptly named after India's best-known ornithologist Doctor Salim Ali.
Open throughout the year, the sanctuary can be visited with the permission of the Chief Wild Life Warden, Forest Department, Junta House, Panaji. Apart from a rich variety of coastal birds, one may spot flying foxes, jackals and crocodiles.