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When one utters the word "Goa," the mind invariably conjures images of sun-kissed beaches or, for the more discerning, the forts that stand guard along the coastline. 

Yet, in Goa, a network of stunningly beautiful treks shows us the real beauty of Goa.

They take you to parts of Goa that only some know about. In these parts, there are jungles, secluded villages, and ancient ruins. 

At Indiahikes, we love these treks. One of them is the new Goa Netravali Forest Trek. It combines the best of the beaches and the jungles and shows us the Goa few know about.

Imagine us camping on a beach, the sound of waves near tents, and a sunset casting a romantic glow. 

The following day, our trail takes us to an extraordinary sight of the palm-lined shoreline and the azure ocean from the Cabo de Rama hilltop.

The trek, though, starts in the more interior part of the state, at the lush green Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary. 

Walking through this green sanctuary is like entering a botanical wonderland where flora and fauna coexist. There is an infinite variety of birdsong and forest sounds. They stay with us all along the trek. 

The forest trek is a visual delight. For example, on the way, we rest beside a cascading waterfall, the waters of which form a clear pool. Not too deep, but enough to allow us to dip our feet to our knees in a cool embrace. 

Later, we pass through secluded villages where modernity hasn’t had much of an impact. This is the real Goa. We witness their culture and heritage closely. 

In the evening, we get to our camp on the Cabo de Rama beach—a secluded small bay surrounded by palm fronds. We watch the sun go down and take a dip in the water without any tourist crowds.

The next day, before returning to Margao, once we finish our trek, we soak in the mediaeval fort of Cabo de Rama that Shivaji built in 1679. The cannons and the bastions are still in place. From the vantage point of the fort, the Arabian Sea's boundless blue waters stare at us. 

The true essence of Goa is woven into this beautiful trek of beaches, forts, forests, villages, and history. It is a trek that will delight the trekker in you.

This trek is in official partnership with the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). 

This fee includes everything from Netravali to Cabo De Rama

Please note: The insurance has to be claimed within 7 days from the specific incident for it to be deemed valid.  

Goa Netravali Forest Trek - Complete Trek Information 

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on any trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a surface level experience.

Use this section to learn about the Goa Netravali Forest Trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into putting down this content for you. Don’t miss the ‘Frequently Asked Questions' section.

➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a photocopy of their photo ID along with the mandatory Disclaimer form.

➤Stay facility: Please note that you will be staying in tents on all days of the trek. Trekkers need to make their arrangements for a stay in Goa on Day 0 or after the trek.

Suhas is the head of the DIY and Documentation Team. He has been working at Indiahikes for the past 8 years. Nature, adventure, and wildlife are the top things that get his heart racing. He has done more than 14 Himalayan treks. Along with that, he has done explorations in the Himalayas, the Western Ghats, and around Bengaluru. And it was he who explored the grand Phulara Ridge trek. Suhas was also involved in the exploration of other treks like Ranthank Kharak, Pir Panjal Lakes, Vellore Amirthi Forest Trek and the Goa Netravali Forest Trek. 

Highlights of the Goa Netravali Forest Trek

On top of the surreal experience of Goa, I learnt a lot too.

It was a surreal experience. I am definitely repeating this trek

An unforgettable adventure indeed

The trek was awesome and an unforgettable experience.

An amazing trek for beginners and those seeking a quick escape from real life.

For those seeking to immerse themselves in the unspoiled natural beauty of Goa, the Goa Netravali Trek is an absolute must.

This trek combined the best of forests Goa has to offer and the beaches Goa is always known for.

A easy-moderate rating difficulty refers to marginally longer trekking days with a few steep climbs (For example: Descending down and up the Mainapi Waterfalls or the trek towards the cliff point). Sections like this make being fit essential for this trek. 

Goa, being in the torrid zone and near the Arabian Sea, has a hot and humid climate for most of the year. So the heat can also add on to the difficulty while trekking. 

The trek has easy exits and there are less technical sections.

But if you extend the trek further on your own, which is not part of the itinerary, then it can be a moderate trek, depending on your itinerary. During our exploration, we did check out the possibility of connecting to Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary or more beaches after Neum. For this, you need a lot more fitness. 

Also, be careful during the steep ascent and descent during the rainy season. Wearing good-quality trekking shoes with a great grip really helps here. (For details read: How To Choose The Best Trekking Shoes In India)

The Goa Netravali Forest Trek is rated as 'Easy-Moderate' with 5-6 hours of trekking on both the days. 

The best time to do the Goa Netravali Forest Trek is from September to March. These months are worth it if you are going for the trek. 

Post-monsoon, the greenery is still the forest and the region of South Goa. The weather is pleasant and cool until January and February. You can expect temperatures to go up to 27 degrees during the afternoon. 

Having said that, even the other months of the year can be trekked. Goa, being in the torrid zone and near the Arabian Sea, has a hot and humid climate for most of the year. There aren't too many variations, and it never gets unbearably hot, thanks to the ocean breeze. 

The monsoon months will have very lush greenery all around—in the forests, farmlands, and the entire region of Goa. However, the rain can be uncomfortable for a few. But if you are into a monsoon trek, then even these months can be considered for this trek. 

During the summer season, the crowd will be smaller. If you tackle the heat, then you will be treated to some of the most clearest skies. The temperatures can go up to 35 degrees during the peak of the day. However, the good news is since your first day is through the forest section, you have shade throughout the day. The second day will be exposed and challenging for trekkers. 

Day time temperature: Between 20° C and 27° C | Night time temperature: Between 18° C and 24° C

Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.   

Crocin (Paracetamol) – 6 tablets (fever)

Norflox TZ – 3 tablets (diarrhoea/ severe GI issue)

Knee Cap (Optional), if you are prone to a knee injury

Our trek leaders carry a medical kit with them. If there is an emergency our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines listed here.

Pro Tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit. 

These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. ID cards of either Aadhar card or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.  

Disclaimer certificate: Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate

Please carry the above document with you. The document needs to be downloaded (PDF), filled in, signed, and handed over to the trek leader at the base camp. Please print these back-to-back on two sheets. Do not print separately and help in reducing paper usage.

Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet.

The Goa Netravali Forest Trek requires trekking shoes that are sturdy, have good grip, have ankle support. Here is a quick video on how to choose your trekking shoes.  

| Buying Tip: The Trek series and MH series are good options by Decathlon. They are tried and tested. There really isn’t any necessity to buy the higher-priced models. Here is a list of other budget shoes that trekkers are using.

And learn the difference between a trekking shoe and a sports shoe here. 

For a trek like Goa Netravali Forest Trek, you need a 30-40 litre backpack. Make sure your backpack has good hip support, shoulder support, and quick access pockets. Here is a guide on how to choose a backpack.

| Buying Tip: Wildcraft, Decathlon and Adventure Worx usually make good backpacks. While Wildcraft has more expensive ones, the other two brands have budget-friendly backpacks to choose from.

On a trek, carry fewer clothes than you would normally need. Do not pack for ‘what if situations’. That will only add to the weight of your backpack and not be used on the trek. Once your clothes get warmed up on a trek, you will not feel like changing. Just maintain personal hygiene.

One layer of warm cloth: Carry one fleece sweater/jacket. The evening at Netravali Forest or while camping at the beach can get chilly. 

Two trek pants: Carry light quick dry trek pants. One trek pant while trekking and an another pant inside the backpack. Denim/jeans and shorts are not suitable for trekking.

Three t-shirts: You will wear one t-shirt while trekking and the rest two t-shirt inside your backpack. Carry light, full-sleeved t-shirts that prevent sunburns on the neck and arms. Let one of these be a dry-fit t-shirt. It will dry quickly in case you are trekking on a rainy day.

You need a pair of either sandals or floaters with straps, or even Crocs will be good. You can use an existing one itself. These will be helpful around the campsites and also when you are walking on the beach or travelling in between. 

Alternatively, you can even think of getting the Aquashoes from Decathlon, which are very light and easy to carry. Trekkers have found this good during treks where you walk on the beach or have some stream crossings. 


Sunglasses: Sunglasses are mandatory. This is to protect you from the harsh sun.

Sun Cap: In the jungles, even though there is heavy tree cover, the harsh sun can dehydrate you very quickly. A sun cap comes in handy to prevent the moisture to escape when you are sweating.

Socks (4 pairs): Your normal cotton/ sport socks are good, but make sure they are all high ankle socks

Headlamp/LED torch: Mandatory + extra Batteries.

Trekking pole: Watch this video to understand why you need a trekking pole. 

Ponchos: In a jungle, unexpected rain is possible at any time, and hence it’s mandatory to carry a poncho so that you don’t get wet.

Umbrella: To protect yourself from the sun

Toiletries: Sunscreen, light towel, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer. Do not carry wet wipes since these are not biodegradable. We do not like biodegradable wet wipes because they take a long time to decompose in the mountains. Use toilet paper instead.

Sanitary waste: Make sure you bring your used sanitary napkins back to the city with you. Carry a zip lock bag to put used napkins. Bring this ziplock bag back with you to the city and do not dispose of sanitary napkins in the mountains.

Cutlery: Carry a spoon, coffee mug and a lunch box. We insist on trekkers getting their cutlery for hygiene reasons. We do not allow biodegradable or disposable cutlery on our treks.

Plastic covers: While packing, use plastic bags to compartmentalize things and carry a few extra plastic bags for wet clothes.

Note: We strongly recommend not carrying trolley bags. Our campsite is not very close to the roadhead, and it becomes a hustle to carry trolley bags. A duffle bag or backpack is recommended.

We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools. 

To do this trek comfortably, as the Goa Netravali Forest trek comes under easy-moderate category and is a 2-day trek, the fitness requirement is different than our traditional Himalayan treks. 

While we suggest running as the best exercise to get fit for the trek, being able to brisk walk 5 km under 45-50 minutes should be sufficient to do the trek comfortably. Share your fitness screenshot in the WhatsApp group with your experience coordinator once you register for the trek. 

How to achieve this fitness? 

Start with walking at least 4 days a week 

If you cannot brisk walk/jog 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.

Once you’re able to reach 5 km, increase your pace day by day. 

Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 45 mins.

Frequently Asked Questions About Goa Netravali Forest Trek

Trekkers share their experience with Indiahikes

Here are the unedited reviews by trekkers

As industry leaders, we have innovated and set safety standards in the trekking industry. Our people, our processes, and our equipment are what make Indiahikes the safest trekking organisation in India.

Complete the steps below to register for your Goa Netravali Forest Trek

We go to great lengths to keep you safe on your trek. However, trekking with the safest organisation in India comes with certain commitments from your end. 

Eligibility Criteria for Goa Netravali Forest Trek

Complete information on the Goa Netravali Forest Trek. Trek details, itinerary, cost, maps, photos, videos and more. 

Goa Netravali Forest Trek 2024 - Treks In Goa - Indiahikes

goa goa netravali jungle beach gao cabo de rama

Please note that this is a special trek designed for stargazing enthusiasts. The trek fee is slightly more than the regular fee. Know more about the trek here. 

This is a trek specially designed for trekkers above 58 years. The trek fee is Rs 3000 more than the regular fee (Please note this is only for Himalayan treks) Know more about the trek here. 

Please note that this is a special trek. The trek fee is Rs 3000 more than the regular fee. Know more about the trek here. 

Please note that the family treks are meant for families with a child/children under 14 years of age. If you do not fit this criteria, you can register for any of our regular groups. Read more about family treks here.

You are joining our waitlist. Your chances of getting a confirmation are high, but not certain. We will notify you as soon as a trekker cancels their trek.

When we brought out new trails in Indian trekking, safety came with us. Back in 2012, we were the first to introduce microspikes, and two years later, pulse oximeters became standard thanks to us. Nobody does safe treks like Indiahikes. In the mountains, emergencies don't care who you're with – everyone knows that when trouble hits, you look for the yellow tents of Indiahikes.

We are India’s safest trekking organisation

We are pioneers in trekking. Since 2007, we have brought out treks that have become India's most famous treks: Roopkund, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Kedarkantha, Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar, Brahmatal, Phulara Ridge—the list goes on. In 2023 alone, we brought out five new treks in Indian trekking. We know treks better than anyone. This comes directly from the reason why Indiahikes was born: to bring out trek information and enable trekkers to trek on their own.

We are pioneers of treks in India

More than 25,000 people trek with us every year. We are the largest trekking organisation in India. 24% of our trekkers come back to trek with us every year. Over 4,000 students from the top educational institutions trek with us every year. Aside from this, families with children choose to trek with Indiahikes knowing that our treks are the safest. We have taken over 8000 children trekking so far, and the number continues to grow. 

We are India’s largest trekking organisation

We focus on designing transformative experiences. Our trek leaders conduct thought-provoking exercises that help you reflect and contemplate. This impact stays with you for a long time. Trekkers return feeling energised, more confident, or developing abilities to deal with difficulties. Many have changed careers, rethought their core values, become more humble, shown gratitude to others, or started a new fitness journey. 

Our treks are transformative

Since 2012, we have pioneered sustainable practices that have become standard in trekking. Using eco-bags, our trekkers have cleared over 120 tonnes of litter from the mountains. We do not carry packaged foods; instead, we serve freshly made food. We do not light campfires; we carry coal to light angethis to keep you warm. Our bio-toilets not only keep our toilets odour-free but also enrich the soil. When you trek with us, you leave mountains better.

We are India's most sustainable trekking organisation

5 Reasons Why Indiahikes

If you are unable to complete a trek, or if you love a trek, you can repeat it with us anytime. You don’t have to pay us for it. See our thoughts behind this here.

You’re guarded with our trek again philosophy

Our thrice-a-day oxi-metre checks keep altitude sickness at bay, never allowing you to reach a point where you need evacuation.

Daily 3-time health checks keep you safe at any altitude

With around 30% of our trekkers being women, all women, including those travelling solo are comfortable to join any of our groups.

Join any group, they are all women-friendly groups 

Our kitchen teams understand your needs as a vegan (or a Jain). We will take special care of your food, even in the remote Himalayas. 

We have specially designed bio toilets to ensure you have no sight or smell in toilets, at the same time making sure the toilets cause no harm to the fragile ecosystem we trek in.

Be comfortable and sustainable with bio toilets

We’ll admit it. Our love for food surpasses our love for minimalism. Expect freshly cooked, multi-cuisine food at all camps, designed to meet your nutritional requirements and keep your taste buds happy!

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