With the arrival of the monsoon, Netravali’s stunning Mainapi and Savari waterfalls have roared back to life, drawing in nature lovers and tourists from across Goa and beyond. Surrounded by lush greenery and surging streams, the waterfalls offer a breathtaking escape into the heart of the Western Ghats. However, the 2025 season has opened under a stricter set of regulations, sparking a mixed reaction from visitors.
In an effort to preserve the fragile ecosystem and enhance safety, the Forest Department has introduced several new rules. Daily visitor numbers are now capped, with mandatory online pre-registration for entry. Forest guards are stationed in the area to enforce guidelines on waste disposal, plastic use, and crowd control. Swimming has been prohibited in certain areas, and fines for rule violations have been significantly increased.
While many welcome the new measures as essential for protecting the natural environment and avoiding overcrowding, others find them restrictive. Some visitors have expressed disappointment at being denied entry due to limited quotas, and local guides and vendors say the reduced tourist traffic is impacting their earnings. The new rules have sparked debate between conservation priorities and tourism livelihoods—but most agree that preserving the beauty of Netravali is a shared responsibility.