Mhadei River

This adrenaline-pumping sport picks up pace mainly during the monsoon season and usually kicks off at the start of July. Though new, this Sanctuary is located near the village of Valpoi in the Sattari taluka and is rich in biodiversity (both flora and fauna) that covers the Western Ghats.

The Mhadei sanctuary is well-equipped to cater to the needs of overnight visitors as there are rest houses and private resorts located nearby. Tour operators and the state tourism department can arrange for packaged tours, treks, and hikes inside the sanctuary. Visits to the sanctuary can be planned from the month of October till March, while the monsoons are ideally suited for white water rafting. Also, the months between July and  September are quite spectacular when the Mhadei river is in full flow and ideally suited for white water rafting tours.

The sanctuary is a perfect world for wildlife enthusiasts and if lucky the Black Panther, Sloth bear, Leopard, Tiger, Dhole, Jungle cat, Mouse deer, Giant squirrel and Flying squirrel can be spotted. Over 300 butterfly species are also known to be residents here.

Among other activities, the Vagheri Hills and Chorla Ghat are the major attraction as they happen to be one of the highest mountains in Goa. Seasonal hikers and trekkers organize tours and indulge in hiking, trekking, and rock climbing. Though there are numerous picturesque waterfalls located inside the sanctuary boundaries, the Vazra Sakla Falls and the Virdi Falls are major attractions. The cliff face just adjacent to the Vazra falls is a renowned nesting ground for the endangered Long-billed vultures.