On the border of Karnataka and Goa, the
Dudhsagar Falls drop to a spectacular 600m. Believed to be amongst the highest falls in
the country, these magnificent falls are located in a blissful tropical jungle with
crisscrossing streams.
After pouring across the Deccan plateau, the headwaters of the Mandovi River form a
foaming torrent that fans into three streams, then cascades down a near-vertical cliff
face into a deep green pool.
Jewel Of Konkan
The Konkani name for the falls, which literally translated means "sea of milk",
derives from clouds of foam kicked up at the bottom when the water levels are at their
highest. Overlooking a steep, crescent-shaped head of a valley carpeted with pristine
tropical forest, Dudhsagar is set amid breath taking scenery that is only accessible on
foot or by jeep. The old Vasco Castle Rock Railway actually passes over the falls on an
old stone viaduct, but has been closed for the past three years while track conversion
work is carried out.
Water Sports
The falls drop down to form a few pools, which are absolutely delightful for a swim. Take
care to ensure that the pool one is going into is relatively calm. The sure-footed
adventurers could try and climb up to the head of the falls through bushes, boulders and
water. It's a tough climb, which takes at least a couple of hours, but the mind-blowing
view from the top is well worth the effort.
The best time to visit Dudhsagar is immediately after the monsoons, from October until
mid-December, although the falls flow well into April.
HOW TO GET THERE
Rail: Take a train to the quaint Dudhsagar railway station, and then walk on the path that
takes one to the viewing point of the falls overlooking the nicest pool made by them.
Road: The only way to get over the waterfall site is by four-wheel drive
jeep from the railway junction village of Colem.
NOTE: It can be difficult to arrange transport of any kind from Molem
crossroads, where regular taxis are in short supply.
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