Nerul Backwaters Goa
Discover the tranquil beauty of Goa's Nerul Backwaters, a serene escape with lush mangroves and calm river waters, perfect for boat rides and kayaking...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Calm waters, lush greenery
Nerul Backwaters Goa
Best Time
Calm waters, lush greenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the tranquil beauty of Goa's Nerul Backwaters, a serene escape with lush mangroves and calm river waters, perfect for boat rides and kayaking.
"A peaceful escape from the usual Goan hustle, offering serene mangrove views and enjoyable boat rides."
🎯 Boat Ride Value
Boat rides are around ₹350 per person for an hour. A great way to see the mangroves!
🛶 Kayak Rental Costs
Kayak rentals range from ₹100-300 per person, excluding safety jackets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Backwater Boat Ride
Nerul River
Glide through serene waters, surrounded by mangroves and lush greenery. A peaceful escape from the usual Goan hustle.
Kayaking Adventure
Nerul River
Paddle your own kayak through the tranquil backwaters, exploring hidden nooks and enjoying nature up close.
Riverside Dining
Near Nerul Backwaters
Enjoy Goan cuisine with stunning views at riverside restaurants like The Lazy Goose.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Best Time for Calm Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Boat Ride Value
Boat rides are around ₹350 per person for an hour. A great way to see the mangroves!
🛶 Kayak Rental Costs
Kayak rentals range from ₹100-300 per person, excluding safety jackets.
📸 Photogenic Views
The backwaters offer stunning, serene landscapes perfect for photography.
🍽️ Riverside Dining
Enjoy Goan food with a view at places like The Lazy Goose, which also offers boat rides.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Boat Ride Value
Boat rides are around ₹350 per person for an hour. A great way to see the mangroves!
🛶 Kayak Rental Costs
Kayak rentals range from ₹100-300 per person, excluding safety jackets.
📸 Photogenic Views
The backwaters offer stunning, serene landscapes perfect for photography.
🍽️ Riverside Dining
Enjoy Goan food with a view at places like The Lazy Goose, which also offers boat rides.
🌿 Mangrove Exploration
Explore the unique mangrove forests by boat or kayak for a close encounter with nature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Nerul Backwaters for their serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere, offering a welcome escape from Goa's busy beaches. The boat rides and kayaking opportunities are highlighted as enjoyable experiences, with many appreciating the lush mangrove scenery and riverside dining options. Some found the experience to be a unique and refreshing perspective on Goa.
"We recently went boating here for half an hour. It was really great and worth it. Had a peaceful and awesome time roaming around this river seeing temples, sculptures, tower and mangrove forest trees."
Surya Rajagopal R
"The Nerul River is known for its photogenic surroundings, with lush mangroves and calm waters. The landscape provides a soothing and serene environment, making it an excellent spot for relaxation and nature lovers.
Boat rides : One of the highlights of the Nerul River is the opportunity to take boat rides along its waters. Many boat operators offer trips that take you through the river's winding paths, giving you a chance to admire the surrounding greenery and enjoy the pleasant breeze."
Chaitra S
"Beautiful View - Surprisingly we have spotted Kerala Houseboats here"
Randal Whelpdale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Nerul Backwaters are located in North Goa, near Candolim. You can reach them by taxi or rented scooter from major Goan towns. The area is accessible via a bridge connecting to Candolim.
While direct public transport to the exact backwater spots might be limited, you can take buses towards Candolim and then hire a local auto-rickshaw or taxi for the final stretch.
Renting a scooter or a car is highly recommended for exploring Nerul and its surroundings at your own pace. Taxis are also readily available.
There isn't one single 'entry point.' Access is often gained through local boat operators or by reaching riverside restaurants and resorts that offer access.
Nerul Backwaters are conveniently located near popular beaches like Candolim and Calangute, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's no general entry fee for the backwaters themselves. However, boat rides and kayaking activities will have separate charges.
Boat rides typically cost around ₹350 per person for a 1-hour trip. Prices can vary slightly depending on the operator and season.
For popular spots like The Lazy Goose, it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season. For smaller operators, you can often arrange rides on the spot.
Kayak rentals are generally between ₹100 to ₹300 per person, not including safety jackets.
Yes, many boat operators offer guided tours that can include insights into the local flora and fauna, and sometimes even eagle feeding.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy peaceful boat rides, kayaking, explore mangrove forests, and dine at riverside restaurants. Some operators offer eagle feeding experiences.
Absolutely! The lush mangroves, calm waters, and diverse birdlife make it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Swimming is generally not recommended due to currents, depth, and potential wildlife. Stick to boat rides and kayaking for water activities.
You might spot various bird species, fish, and the unique ecosystem of the mangrove forests. Some boat tours even involve feeding eagles.
Yes, the serene landscapes, reflections on the water, and lush greenery offer excellent photographic opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Lazy Goose is a popular riverside restaurant known for its Goan cuisine and scenic location.
Expect delicious Goan specialties, seafood, and international dishes at the riverside eateries.
Some boat operators might offer basic refreshments, but it's best to dine at a restaurant before or after your ride.
While riverside restaurants can be mid-range, exploring nearby local eateries in Nerul village might offer more budget-friendly choices.
Many restaurants, like The Lazy Goose, are specifically chosen for their prime locations offering beautiful views of the backwaters.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with soft, golden hues and fewer crowds.
Capture serene water reflections, lush mangrove textures, diverse birdlife, and the unique Goan houseboats that are sometimes spotted here.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive landscapes.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography. However, always be respectful of private property and other visitors.
Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas or require permits. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like early mornings, to keep everyone comfortable. While kayaking might be an option for older children, a boat ride is generally more suitable for younger ones. Pack snacks and drinks, as options might be limited on the water.
💰 Budget Travelers
For dining, look for local eateries in Nerul village rather than solely relying on the prime riverside restaurants, which can be pricier. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views, and keep an eye out for diverse birdlife. The occasional sighting of traditional Goan houseboats adds an interesting element to your photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Nerul River by Boat
Expect to see a variety of bird species and the intricate root systems of the mangroves. Some boatmen even offer the unique experience of feeding eagles and hawks, adding an element of wildlife interaction to the journey. The cost for a typical 1-hour boat ride is around ₹350 per person, making it an accessible activity for most travelers.
For a more immersive experience, consider looking for operators who can take you to less-explored parts of the backwaters. The calm waters and scenic beauty make it an ideal setting for relaxation and photography, providing a different perspective of Goa beyond its famous coastline.
Kayaking in the Backwaters
Kayaking rentals are quite affordable, typically ranging from ₹100 to ₹300 per person. It's a great way to experience the quietude of the backwaters without the engine noise of a boat. Even if you're not an experienced swimmer, kayaking in shallow waters is manageable, and safety jackets are provided.
The best times for kayaking are early mornings or late afternoons when the water is calm and the light is beautiful for photos. It's an excellent opportunity to spot local birdlife and enjoy the serene natural beauty of this less-visited part of Goa.
Riverside Dining and Ambiance
These establishments often provide a relaxed ambiance, sometimes featuring live music, making them ideal for a romantic dinner or a leisurely lunch. The culinary offerings typically focus on fresh seafood and authentic Goan flavors, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the backwaters.
While these riverside spots offer a premium experience, exploring the village of Nerul might reveal more local eateries for a budget-friendly meal. However, for the full experience of dining with a view, the dedicated riverside restaurants are highly recommended.
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