After pouring across the Deccan plateau, the headwaters
of the Mandovi River form a foaming torrent that fan into
three streams, then cascade down a near-vertical cliff face
into a deep green pool.
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.
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