BY ARTI DAS | NT NETWORK

Think of a cozy afternoon under the blanket, listening to the sound of raindrops outside the window, followed by a hot cup of tea with some bhajiyas. Yes, it does sound tempting especially when you have weather like this to support it.

But, ideally one should enjoy this particular weather by being a part of it–there is no real fun in enjoying the wet weather if you keep yourself dry.

One can explore various places during the weekends to see the wonders of nature. It is the best time to come face to face with varieties of species like frogs, toads snakes and insects.

But, when we think of monsoon outings we only think of the waterfalls at Amboli. Besides this, there are various places in Goa where you can go on a trek with friends. If you are adventurous and nature lover, then you should arm yourself with a trekking gear to witness the wild side of Goa.

Tambdi Surla waterfall: Tambdi Surla is famous for its 12th century temple built during the Kadamba era. Along with this temple there is one more treasure, a waterfall that is located in the nearby forest area.

One needs to trek for more than an hour to reach this spot. But, be ready to cross streams and rivulets, fields and deep forest on a lesser known forest path to a magnificent waterfall known as the ‘Tambdi Falls’.

This place is also a biodiversity hotspot as one will witness various bird calls, variety of butterflies like Common Crow, Blue Mormon and the Glass Yellow. This forest is also the home of the rare hump nosed pit viper.

Kuskem waterfall: This is yet another not-so-explored waterfall of Goa. It is situated in Canacona taluka around 20 kms from Cotigao. Kuskem waterfall is located on the way to the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary.

Kuskem waterfall is ideally situated in a village called Kuskem. The best time to visit this place is during the rains as it dries up during the summer. A short trek from the village for just a few minutes will bring you to this spot. Any local villager can guide you till the waterfall.

Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary: It is the biggest sanctuary of Goa, a home for waterfalls, streams and endemic biodiversity of Western Ghats. During the monsoons one can trek from Mollem to Collem for around 8 kms. During this walk you will come across various varieties of frogs, mushrooms, birds and mammals like Malabar Giant squirrel and the state animal, bison.

Mitra, a Ponda-based group is organising a trek to this place on June 27. The volunteers of Mitra group will also provide you with valuable information about the flora and fauna of this protected area.

Some points to keep in mind

No littering should be allowed at any site as it not only spoils the beauty, but also affects that habitat of that place. Carry an empty plastic bag to collect your litter.

Be careful of leeches during monsoons. Wear  gumboots, full length pants and t-shirts to avoid them.

Carry an extra set of clothing

Always take the help of a professional guide or trekker or a local villager while visiting any forest area.

Maintain the sanctity of that place.

Avoid being in the forest area till evening. Start return journey by late afternoon.

Do not harm any living beings including plants and trees.