Zuari River

Nestled in the heart of Goa, the Zuari River is a testament to the state's rich natural heritage. This majestic river, often referred to as the Aghanashini or the destroyer of sun, winds its way through the Sahyadri Hills, tracing a zigzag path of about 145 kilometers before it merges with the Arabian Sea at the Mormugao-Dona Paula point. As it flows, the Zuari River carves out a basin that covers nearly 27% of Goa, including the lush Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary. The river's banks are adorned with dense forests and vibrant mangrove ecosystems, hosting an array of wildlife from Indian crocodiles to a variety of bird species. A boat ride along its waters offers a surreal experience, with the exposed roots of mangrove trees and the soft lapping of the tidal waters against the shore, creating a symphony of sights and sounds that define the essence of this Goan gem.