Salaulim Dam,Hidden Place of South Goa.

The stunning Indian state of Goa has many tourist attractions, one of the highlights to go beyond the tourist beaches. One of those places i visited was the Sahakari Spice farm where many visitors did not make way. The Salaulim Dam is another attraction that is very unique and not to be missed during your trip to Goa, particularly during the monsoons. I had seen some pictures of the impressive Salaulim Dam posted by one of my local friends a couple of months ago and i knew this had to be on the list once we planned a trip to Goa.

Come monsoons and Goa's water bodies represented in another avatar. Water from the Western Ghats is created by a number of seasonal cascades. Dams spill over and create a beautiful scene as they fall to the rivers from high altitudes. In short, Goa is turned into monsoons on its other side, the history. Even if Goa is green all year round, the shades of green during monsoons will leave the shades counting. Salaulim Dam is one such monsoon in Goa.

I stayed in Baywatch Resort in colva,South Goa during my recent visit to Goa and there are a lot of attractions in South Goa to explore. One of them is Salaulim Dam. The Salaulim Dam is situated on the Salaulim River near the Netravali wildlife sanctuary, a tributary of the Zuari River about 5 km from Sanguem city. The dam, the composite Earth-cum-masonry dam style structure, was completed in 2000, at a height of 140 ft. It is part of the salaulim water supply project and is now a primary source of water supply in South Goa for both domestic and industrial uses.

The Salaulim is distinct from other dams that have a special semi-circular canal configuration, forming a waterfall that flows in a spectacular sight into the Salaulim River. And the water gushing violently into the spillway produces a mist in the air that is enough for the viewers to see the action on the bridge.

The dam spill is a ungated structure of unique design of the Duckbill type, where the water falls to around 50 ft at the first level and again to a depth of 100 ft to reach the river Salaulim below. You can also walk along a lengthy bridge along the kilometer and enjoy views of the green and peaceful waters on one side of the dam and on the other side of the lush gardens. A variety of plants and trees live in the Botanical Garden, which provides access to the Bridge.

There's a small canteen in the premises where you can have a few juices and icecreams, but if you're having a picnic here, make sure you have your own food.

The best time to visit is during the months of June, July and August, when you can see waters falling into the dam. Some months the dam is empty, although you can enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area, you won't be able to see the water show pulled into the semi-circular spillway. Remember that a set of stairs that are not wheelchair accessible will enter the dam bridge to see the catchment area and the special spillway.

The botanical gardens are accepted with an entry ticket. You must have a photo identity card and only after you have entered the registry are allowed inside. There is a small parking lot available at the entrance. The dam can be accessed between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. The dam lies about 60 km from Panajim and the only way to reach the dam is to hire a taxi or a private vehicle.