Are you also the one who always thinks that Goa is only known for its stunning beaches? Then, you are absolutely wrong. Even though it is the smallest state in India, there is no shortage of things to do for your next picnic. Sounds exciting, right?
If you are looking for offbeat places in Goa, then don’t miss out on visiting the stunning lakes. Get the chance to touch the magic of natural beauty, which promises tranquillity, scenic views and lush greenery everywhere.
Spend some time soaking in the breathtaking beauty of nature. Decided about your next picnic, but don’t know which lakes to visit. No worries, just scroll down the blog and get to know about the stunning lakes in Goa.
So, let’s get started without any delay!
Explore The 7 Most Beautiful Lakes In Goa
Serenity comes when there is water, sand and open sky, and that’s what the beauty of lakes is calling you. Whether you are a nature lover or a frequent traveller, here is the list of lakes to visit in Goa to fill your heart with golden memories.
Mayem Lake
Let the refreshness of Mayem Lake fade away all your worries. Indulge in tranquillity, witness the beauty of a freshwater lake surrounded by hills and lush green forests. If you want to explore the surroundings from a unique perspective, then feel free to take a boat ride. Interestingly, the region also offers you the opportunity to enjoy bungee jumping. Don’t you get excited for picnic? Even if it is a year-round place to visit in Goa, it is even more beautiful during the monsoon season. So, make plans according to your preferences because you know visiting such places is one of the ways to release stress on the Goa trip.
- Location: Near Maem village
- Distance: Approximately 29 kilometres from Panaji
- Best Time: October to March
- Things to do: Boating, photography, birdwatching, exploring nearby attractions
Netravali Bubbling Lake
Get the chance of exporing sacred water reservoir, the Netravali Bubbling lake, which is a part of the Gopinath Temple. Wanted to know why it is called a bubbling lake. Try clapping and see how it starts bubbling at different points. Interesting, right? However, there are different mythological facts behind the effect of bubbling. But the real effect is due to the presence of limestone, carbon dioxide or methane in water. Surprisingly, witnessing nature is one of the experiences that gives you a real feel of Goa. Don’t you agree? So, don’t skip, just include to your picnic travel list.
- Location: Netravli, Vichundrem, South Goa
- Distance: Approximately 79 kilometres from Panaji
- Best Time: During cooler months from October to March
- Things to do: Visit the temple, witness bubbling effects, take photographs, and enjoy the serenity.
Carambolim Lake
Carambolim Lake, also known as Karmali Lake, is renowned for its freshwater wetland in North Goa. Even though it is a man-made lake, it is home to tons of bird species includes both native and migratory. Interestingly, this lake is made for the purpose of irrigation of the paddy fields in the surrounding area. Furthermore, the freshwater lake and the forested area are declared as the Carambolim Bird Sanctuary.
- Location: Situated in the Tiswadi Taluka
- Distance: Approximately 12 km from Panaji and 2 km from Old Goa
- Best Time: Early mornings, from October to March
- Things to do: Birdwatching, photography, exploring the area
Ambulor Lake
Ambulor Lake is one of the charming lakes in Goa, tucked away in the village of Verna. The region offers you a rich ecological tapestry, nested in the Salcellte taluka. The region is surrounded by beautiful, lush greenery and is a haven for native and migratory birds, ideal for nature lovers. It’s just a place for relaxation and enjoying the next-level peace, just you and the serenity. So, explore the beauty of one of the hidden places in Goa and enjoy to the fullest.
- Location: Located in the village of Verna, Goa
- Distance: Almost 25.5 kilometres from Panaji
- Best Time: Winter season from November to March
- Things to do: Enjoy greenery, hike to the rocky cliffs, enjoy a therapeutic mud bath, explore the bohemian market, and visit the Jungle/Banyan Tree and more.
Batim Lake
Batim Lake is one of the famous lakes in Goa. Also, it is the main attraction known for its exquisite population of birds. Witness the natural beauty and plan your visit all year round, especially during the migratory period. Must bring your camera to capture different birds: Lesser Whistling Duck, Purple Swamper, Cotton Pygmy-goose, Comb Duck, Darter, and Spot-billed Duck. However, the lake is an ideal picnic spot thanks to the lush greenery that adds coolness and refreshment to the region.
- Location: Located in the Tiswadi taluka of North Goa
- Distance: Only 11.1 kilometres
- Best Time: November to February
- Things to do: Witness Bioluminescence, enjoy sunset views, relax, swim, spot local wildlife and explore nearby attractions
Arambol Sweet Water Lake
Arambol Sweet Water Lake is locally known as Vagkolam lake one of the places to visit in Goa. Also, this freshwater lake lies near the Arabian Sea. Due to a mixture of both salt and spring water, the lake tastes sweet-salty. This natural freshwater lake is created by hot springs, and it is only 2 kilometers trek through off-road terrain from the Arambol beach. Furthermore, it is an ideal picnic spot to experience and enjoy the breathtaking vibes.
- Location: Situated at the end of Arambol Beach
- Distance: 50 kilometres from Panaji
- Best Time: November to February for the best atmosphere
- Things to do: Swimming, yoga, meditation, photography, sunbathing and much more.
Sarzora Lake
Again, Sarzora Lake is a man-made scenic lake, located in the village of Sarzora in South Goa. The lake is surrounded by lush green fields and hills, which serve as a peaceful and picturesque spot for relaxing in the evenings. Interestingly, it is recognised as an ecological wetland, serve quiet and scenic spot to enjoy nature. Furthermore, the region supports biodiversity, local agriculture and also provides drinking water.
- Location: Village of Sarzora in South Goa
- Distance: Around 56 kilometres from Panaji
- Best Time: November to February (winter)
- Things to do: Relax, birdwatching, photography, scenic walks and so on.
In A Nutshell
And that wraps up the guide!
Goa, the most ever-evolving state of India, is not only famous for its beaches, but also there are lakes to surprise you. If you are looking for something different and unique places for your next picnic, then choose to visit the most beautiful lakes in Goa. Feel the calmness and tranquillity of such regions to make your visit worthwhile.
That’s great, you have decided on your visit, but wait, what about your accommodation plans? Where will you stay during the picnic? Just look no further, as Swim Up has got you covered, the best hotel near Vagator Beach, promises an unforgettable stay for all kinds of travellers.
So, don’t think too much about it when you have this kind of choice, just start packing your bags for the best picnic near the lakes of Goa!
