Best 8 Lakes to Visit in Goa for Offbeat Goan Getaway
A flourishing natural escape welcomes those who dare to venture to the other side of Goa. Tucked in between the Arabian Sea and the rolling Sahyadri mountain range, the state is full of unexplored locations that promise to be way better than the mainstream destinations. For instance, Goa is home to a long list of natural and artificial lakes that can offer respite from the summer heat and give you a break from its golden shores. If you are looking for an offbeat Goan getaway on a holiday, here are some Lakes to visit in Goa you can pack a picnic and drive down to:
Lakes in South Goa
Sarzora Lake
The Sarzora Lake sits languidly between lush green hills, away from all crowd and chaos. Located in the village of Sarzora, this man-made lake is one of the lesser-known destinations in Goa. In all its pristine beauty, most find it hard to believe that the lake is artificial. It was created to facilitate irrigation to the nearby areas and is a heavenly location to spend a day at. What’s more, if you visit it between the months of November to February, you might even spot some exquisite birds such as Kites, Kingfishers, Bulbuls, Barbets, Sunbirds, Peacocks, and the Green Bee-eater.
Pro Tip: The lake is in a remote location and the best way to find it would be to ask the locals. Maps might not be helpful.
Curtorim Lake
Located just a hop, skip, and jump away from the busy town of Margao, Curtorim is a cozy little village replete with scenic beauty. The Curtorim Lake is another man-made water body intended to support irrigation and fishing in the nearby villages. The lake can be a treat to the eyes and a wonderful destination for a long drive. The Raitollem Lake, a 10-minute drive from Curtorim Lake, is another gorgeous spot you can check out while you are there.
Pro Tip: Do try the famous cutlet pao (chicken, fish, or beef) in Curtorim. The best food kiosks are located in the Curtorim market, around the St Alex Church.
Ambulor Lake
The Ambulor Lake sits within shouting distance from the Goa Airport, in the charming village of Verna. It’s really quiet and peaceful, makes for the perfect all-day picnic spot, and is ideal for birdwatching during winter. This lake might not be very popular, but it’s worth stumbling upon for a perfect getaway.
Pro Tip: Try go-karting at the track just off the Verna highway.
Lakes in North Goa
Carambolim Lake
The Carambolim Lake is a magnificent expanse of blue and green, sheltering within its rich biodiversity of both aquatic as well as land animals. Located towards the interiors of Goa, the lake is just a stone’s throw away from Panjim and a popular favourite amongst both locals and tourists. Apart from the tranquillity and escape it offers, the lake is one of the largest in Goa and a well-loved bird-watching site. It is also one of Goa’s designated bird sanctuaries and home to some beautiful and exotic birds such as the Cattle Egret, Pond Heron, red-rumped swallow, little egret, pheasant-tailed jacana, coot, and bronze-winged jacana & purple moorhen.
Pro Tip: The lake also hosts some gorgeous pink flamingos during the winter months. Keep an eye out for them.
Mayem Lake
The Mayem Lake is well-loved because along with plentiful peace and quiet, it also offers a bunch of water activities to indulge in. You can opt for a romantic boat ride in the green waters or go all the way in and go bungee jumping. The lake is located in the serene taluka of Bicholim and even has a special children’s play area. The lush foliage that surrounds the water body is also home to a handful of birds that are worth looking out for. Some common visitors to this lake are the Orange-breasted Green-pigeon, Blue-bearded Bee-eater, Indian Scimitar-babbler, Yellow-crowned Woodpecker, Crested Serpent-eagle, and Changeable Hawk-eagle.
Pro Tip: You get a spacious patio with a view of the lake if you opt to stay in the Goa Government’s Mayem Lake View Hotel.
Mala Lake
If you aren’t one to take the lesser-known roads, Mala Lake is just the place for you. Tucked away in the winding lanes of Fontainhas in Panjim, the lake can be a joyful respite from the city, within the city. It’s the perfect spot to pack a picnic and make a pit stop at the end of a tiring day walking through the Latin Quarter.
Pro Tip: Visit the Maruti temple which can be easily spotted atop the hill of Altinho. It offers a beautiful view of the city.
Arambol Sweet Water Lake
Far away from the crowded lanes of the popular touristy corners of Goa sits the gorgeous village of Arambol. The Paliem sweet water lake in Arambol is draped in a lush forest cover and hidden away in plain sight. It is a natural fresh-water lake created by hot springs and is a 2 km trek through off-road terrain from the Arambol beach. It can be an ideal picnic spot and one can also find sunbeds on its banks.
Pro-Tip: Wear shoes since the trek to the lake can be daunting. If you keep walking ahead, you’ll also come across a waterfall. (via Tripadvisor)
Batim Lake
Located about 10 km from the city of Panjim, Batim Lake is a birdwatcher’s paradise. It is located in the peaceful and quaint village of Batim and is home to the Lesser Whistling Duck, Purple Swamper, Cotton Pygmy-goose, Comb Duck, Darter, and Spot-billed Duck. The lake makes for an incomparable picnic spot thanks to the lush greenery that wraps it and the coolness that it creates.
Pro Tip: Instead of driving, try cycling to the lake. It might make it more fun and easier to navigate through the narrow lanes of the village. However, beginners are advised to maybe pick a spot closer to the village (such as the Panchayat Hall) to cycle from.
