Tambdi Surla Monsoon Trek Goa: Temple & Waterfall

Walk into a 12th-century temple carved from one piece of stone, then follow the monsoon forest to its waterfall

The Monsoon Trek at Tambdi Surla is a guided trek in Goa's Western Ghats that combines history and wilderness in one morning or afternoon. You visit the Shri Mahadev Temple, a rare Kadamba-Yadava structure carved from a single basalt block in the 12th century, then trek through dense forest following gushing streams to a natural water cascade where you can swim. A naturalist guide leads the walk, pointing out the forest's flora and fauna as you move through it. The trek runs 5 to 6 hours and includes a traditional Goan lunch and basic facilities. You'll need your own transportation to and from the trailhead.

Step-by-step itinerary

Trek to temple and water cascade

• Visit 12th-century Shri Mahadev Temple
• Trek through Western Ghats jungle
• Spot unique flora and fauna
• Learn from expert naturalist
• Take dip in natural water cascade
• Enjoy traditional Goan lunch

The experience

If you have a free afternoon in Goa and want to move beyond the beaches, this trek takes you into the Western Ghats to a temple most visitors never find. The Shri Mahadev Temple at Tambdi Surla sits alone in the forest, carved from a single piece of basalt in the 12th century: the only one of its kind in the state. The walk itself is not a sprint: it follows the monsoon's work, moving through lush foliage alongside streams that swell during the rains, and ends at a natural cascade where you can step into the water.

A naturalist guide walks with you the whole way, which changes what you actually see. Instead of moving through the forest as scenery, you learn to spot the living species around you: the plants, birds and creatures that belong there. The trek covers the foothills of the Western Ghats, so the terrain is steep in places but manageable for most fitness levels. The 5 to 6 hours includes the walk, the temple stop, and time at the cascade. Afterward, a traditional Goan lunch spread (vegetarian or non-vegetarian, your choice) is part of the day.

Bring your own transportation to the trailhead. The operator does not arrange pickup. Washroom facilities are available at the site. The guide speaks English and Hindi, so if you're comfortable in either language, you can follow the naturalist's commentary without translation.

What’s included

• Guided trek with a naturalist who points out the forest's flora and fauna.
• entry to the Shri Mahadev Temple.
• access to the natural water cascade.
• a traditional Goan lunch (vegetarian or non-vegetarian).
• washroom facilities.
• Soul Travelling Goodies.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:30

AgesAdult (10 to 75 years) · Child (5 to 9 years) · Infant (under 5): free

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish and Hindi

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 9 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Soul Travelling

Is this one for you?The guide speaks English and Hindi, so you can follow the naturalist's commentary comfortably in either language. If you're traveling solo or with a small group and want to understand what you're walking through rather than just move past it, a naturalist guide makes the difference between a forest walk and actually seeing the forest.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Hindi.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 9 years); Infant (under 5): free.

What is the Shri Mahadev Temple at Tambdi Surla, and why does it matter?

The Shri Mahadev Temple is a 12th-century structure carved from a single piece of basalt, a Kadamba-Yadava design that is the only one of its kind in Goa. It sits deep in the Western Ghats forest and is the historical anchor of the trek.

Can I swim in the natural cascade at the end of the trek?

Yes, the trek ends at a natural water cascade inside the reserve forest where you can take a dip. It's part of the experience and a chance to cool off after the walk.

How difficult is the trek, and what is the terrain like?

The trek is suitable for all physical fitness levels and runs through the foothills of the Western Ghats, following monsoon streams through dense forest. The terrain is steep in places but the pace is guided, not rushed.

What does the lunch include, and are there dietary options?

A traditional Goan lunch spread is included. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available depending on your preference.

Do I need to arrange my own way to the trailhead?

Yes, you are required to have your own transportation for the entire experience, including getting to and from the trek start point.