Things To Do
in Surla
Surla is a picturesque village located in the Western Ghats of Goa, India, known for its lush greenery and serene landscapes. It is part of the Sattari sub-district and is recognized for its proximity to natural attractions, including waterfalls and trekking trails. The village is also home to the historic Surla Devi temple, which attracts both locals and tourists seeking spiritual solace.
The simple, rural lifestyle of Surla offers a glimpse into Goan culture away from the bustling tourist hubs.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike through the lush green forests surrounding Surla. Enjoy the tranquility of nature and the sounds of birds chirping.
Visit the nearby Surla Waterfall and take a refreshing dip in the waters. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery.
Return to Surla and unwind at a local café, sipping on some tea or coffee. Watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors.
Visit a local farm to learn about traditional farming practices. Interact with farmers and discover their daily routines.
Enjoy a farm-to-table experience with a meal prepared from fresh ingredients grown on-site. Participate in some farming activities if you wish!
Relax at the farm with a bonfire and share stories with the locals. Enjoy the simplicity and warmth of rural life.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and scenic views.
- Diverse local cuisine and delicious traditional dishes.
- Warm and welcoming community with friendly locals.
- Affordability in terms of living costs and daily expenses.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Infrastructure challenges, including transportation issues.
- Potential lack of job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Seasonal weather extremes can affect living conditions.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities.
Best Activities in Surla
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of the Western Ghats, known for their lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and stunning views.
Visit nearby waterfalls such as Tambdi Surla Waterfall, ideal for photography and enjoying the natural beauty.
Enjoy bird watching in the rich biodiversity around Surla, with many species of birds unique to the region.
Set up a campsite in one of the serene spots around Surla for a night under the stars.
Visit the ancient Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple, a historic site set amidst beautiful landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Surla with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Surla
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning natural waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for capturing the beauty of nature.
An architectural marvel with intricate designs, perfect for photographing both exteriors and interiors.
A serene water body offering picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Various hilltops around Surla provide panoramic views of the landscape, making for breathtaking photographs.
The lush green plantations and farms around Surla create vibrant backdrops for photography.
Historic ruins that offer a glimpse into the past with scenic views of the surrounding areas.
Food in Surla
Surla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential dish of Surla, made with local fish cooked in a tangy coconut-based curry with spices. Best enjoyed with steamed rice.
Must-Try!
A refreshing drink made from kokum and coconut milk, often enjoyed as an appetizer or digestive.
A dry prawn dish made with roasted coconut and spices, perfect as a side dish with rice.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Surla better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market that operates on weekends, offering fresh seafood, local vegetables, and spices. It’s the perfect spot to explore local flavors and purchase ingredients to take home.
Scattered throughout Surla, these stalls offer a variety of snacks like 'Pani Puri', 'Vada Pav', and 'Chaat'. Look for the stall near the Surla church for the best variety.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Surla, as in much of India, showing respect to elders is a fundamental cultural norm. It is customary to greet older individuals with greetings such as 'Namaste' and to use formal titles. Avoiding confrontational behavior in their presence is also advisable.
Modesty in dress is appreciated in Surla. While urban areas might be more relaxed, it is recommended to wear conservative clothing, especially in rural settings, to show respect for local customs and values.
Hospitality is highly valued in Surla. If invited to someone’s home, it is polite to accept food or drink offered to you. Showing gratitude and appreciation for the hospitality received is also important for maintaining respectful relationships.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Surla with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Surla
Ensure a smooth experience
In Surla, India, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a small amount of change or round up the bill in restaurants and cafes, particularly in tourist areas. In hotels, tipping staff for good service is also customary. The amount often varies based on the service quality, typically ranging from 10-15% of the bill.
Payment practices in Surla can vary widely. Cash is still a dominant form of payment, especially in local markets and small establishments. However, digital payments are becoming increasingly popular, with services like UPI (Unified Payments Interface) widely used. Credit and debit cards are accepted at many larger businesses and hotels, although it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Surla.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
From November to February, Surla experiences mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is the best time to visit, as the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and exploring the scenic landscapes.
From March to June, temperatures can soar between 25°C to 35°C. It's advisable to visit during early mornings or late evenings to avoid the heat, as midday can be quite hot.
From June to September, Surla receives heavy rainfall. This season transforms the region into a lush green paradise, making it ideal for nature lovers and monsoon trekking. However, heavy downpours can disrupt travel plans.
October to November showcases the region's rejuvenated flora and refreshing weather post-rain. The temperatures begin to cool, making it a good time for trekking and experiencing the local culture.
Surla at Night
Hiking in Surla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike to the beautiful Tambdi Surla Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.
A picturesque hike around Bhira Dam, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere.
A unique hike leading to the secluded Kakolem Beach, known for its golden sands and cliff views.
Explore the diverse flora and fauna on hiking trails through the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary.
Hiking trails within the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary provide a glimpse of the region's rich biodiversity.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Surla through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Surla by plane.
The main airport serving the state of Goa, located approximately 29 km from Surla.
The primary international airport serving Mumbai, located approximately 490 km from Surla.
An international airport located around 700 km from Surla, serving various destinations.
An international airport located around 380 km from Surla, serving the Malabar region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Surla, reflecting the overall religious composition of India.
A significant minority, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Another important minority group, adding to the religious diversity in Surla.
Includes Sikhs, Jains, and various tribal religions, forming a small part of the population.
The Soul of Surla
Discover the essence of Surla through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Surla, drawing large crowds and passionate fans. Many local tournaments and events are held throughout the year.
Football enjoys a strong following in Surla, with local clubs and schools often participating in friendly matches and competitions.
Kabaddi is a traditional sport that is popular in rural areas, including Surla. It is played in villages and is celebrated during local festivals.
Volleyball is often played in schools and community gatherings, making it a popular sport among the youth of Surla.
Badminton has seen a rise in popularity in Surla, with many people playing for recreation and health benefits.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Surla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Surla has a variety of vegetarian options available, especially in local restaurants and home-cooked meals, focusing on vegetables, lentils, and rice.
Many restaurants offer vegan adaptations of traditional dishes. Coconut-based curries and vegetable dishes are common, ensuring there are plenty of dairy-free options.
Rice is a staple in the region, making it easy for those with gluten intolerance. Options like rice-based dosas are widely available.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Surla with these cultural adventures.
