The Lost City of Kurdi in Goa
- Clyde Tellis
- May 11
- 5 min read
Exploring Goa’s Submerged Village Before It Disappears Again
Most travelers visiting Goa never hear about Kurdi.
Hidden deep within South Goa, Kurdi is a submerged village that reappears only during peak summer when water levels around the Salaulim Dam recede. Once a thriving settlement, the village was abandoned after the construction of the dam transformed the surrounding region into a submergence zone.
Today, during a short seasonal window in May, visitors can explore the haunting remains of old homes, temple ruins, pathways, coconut tree remnants, and forgotten structures slowly emerging from the landscape.
For travelers looking to experience a different side of Goa beyond beaches and nightlife, Kurdi offers one of the most unusual and offbeat experiences in the state.
What Is the Lost City of Kurdi?
Kurdi was once a functioning village in South Goa before residents were forced to evacuate due to the construction of the Salaulim Dam which began in 1975.
As water levels rose over the years, homes, roads, agricultural land, and religious structures gradually turned into ruins. Families had to leave behind generations of history, carrying only what they could take at short notice.
Today, when water levels reduce during summer, traces of the village become visible again.
Visitors exploring Kurdi can still spot:
Old house foundations
Ruins of walls and structures
Coconut tree remains
Village roads
Tulsi Vrindavans
Religious crosses
The famous Mahadev temple ruins
The result is a landscape that feels both beautiful and eerie at the same time.
Open skies, calm waters, abandoned structures, and quiet surroundings create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Goa.
The Scenic Ride Through South Goa
The journey to Kurdi is a major part of the experience itself.
The route passes through:
Dense greenery
Scenic village roads
Plantations
Jungle stretches
Quiet countryside landscapes
Unlike the busy tourist belt of North Goa, this side of the state feels slower, greener, and more untouched. During our recent summer ride to Kurdi, the changing scenery throughout the journey made the trip feel less like sightseeing and more like an immersive road expedition into hidden Goa.
This experience is especially enjoyable for:
Riders
Road trip enthusiasts
Adventure seekers
Nature lovers
Photography enthusiasts
Heritage Lovers
Visiting Salaulim Dam: Goa’s Unique Duckbill Spillway
One of the biggest highlights of the journey is a stop at the famous Salaulim Dam.
Located in South Goa, Salaulim Dam is known for having Goa’s only duckbill spillway system and is considered one of the largest structures of its kind in India.
During monsoon season, visitors usually witness water dramatically spilling over the curved spillway structure. However, during peak summer, the lower water levels reveal much more of the actual engineering structure of the dam.
This creates a completely different visual experience compared to the monsoons.
The surrounding viewpoints and open landscapes also make it one of the most scenic dam locations in Goa.
The Story of the Transplanted Xelpem Temple
After Salaulim Dam, Just a 100m away the journey continues to one of Goa’s most fascinating heritage landmarks: the Xelpem temple.
What makes this temple extraordinary is that it was completely transplanted from the original submergence zone before flooding took place.
Every stone from the temple was carefully relocated while maintaining:
Original orientation of each stone
Stone placement exactly as the original structure
Structural alignment
Sacred positioning
It is believed that this temple is from the Kadamba Era. While you visit, you can observe the numbers and markings on the stones which signifies how all the stones have maintained their orientation.
Why Kurdi Is Visible Only in May
One of the most fascinating aspects of Kurdi is that the village is seasonal.
The submerged ruins are usually visible only during peak summer, especially in May, when water levels around the Salaulim reservoir recede significantly.
Once the monsoon arrives, the area gradually disappears underwater again.
This short seasonal window makes the experience feel rare and time-sensitive, especially for travelers interested in:
Hidden places in Goa
Abandoned locations
Unusual summer experiences
Offbeat South Goa exploration
For travelers visiting Goa during summer, Kurdi becomes one of the most unique experiences available in the state.
Exploring the Ruins of Kurdi
Walking through Kurdi feels surreal.
As water levels retreat, old pathways, foundations, and structures slowly emerge from the landscape.
Some of the most striking sights include:
The Mahadev temple ruins
Stone roads still visible beneath the surface
Abandoned house remains
Religious markers and crosses
Coconut tree trunks standing isolated in the open landscape
Tulsi Vrindavans from former homes
The contrast between natural beauty and the tragic history of displacement gives Kurdi a deeply emotional atmosphere. For photographers, storytellers, and explorers, it offers visuals rarely associated with Goa’s mainstream tourism image.
Authentic Goan Lunch at a Local Farm
After a full morning of exploration, the experience concludes with a relaxing stop at a local farm at Rivona for an authentic Goan lunch.
The slower pace of this part of the trip allows visitors to:
Relax after the ride
Cool off with a chilled glass of Kokum Juice
Enjoy Conversation while tasting Local Goan Flavours
Learn about the slow life in Goa
The Farm is popular for Nutmeg cultivation and has a special Nutmeg Jam available only at the farm and not in stores. If you would like to visit the farm, look up Rishivan Farms Rivona.
Rather than rushing through tourist attractions like most rides, the experience is intentionally designed to feel immersive and unhurried.
Trip Pricing & Inclusions
Includes | Details |
Price | ₹2000 per person plus GST |
Guided Ride | Ride captain and local guidance |
Entry & Permissions | Included |
Breakfast | Goan Breakfast |
Lunch | Authentic Buffet Meal |
Experience Type | Full-day guided trip |
Private group experiences can also be organized depending on group size and requirements.
How to Reach Kurdi in South Goa?
Kurdi is located in the South Goa region near the Salaulim reservoir area.
Because the visibility of the submerged village depends entirely on seasonal water levels, access routes can vary throughout the year.
Travelers visiting independently may find it difficult to:
Time the visit correctly
Navigate seasonal routes
Understand the historical significance of the site
Locate hidden landmarks around the area
This is why many visitors prefer joining guided local experiences that combine:
Transportation planning
Historical storytelling
Scenic stops
Local insights
Coordinated timing based on water levels
The closest landmark to get into the submerged area is the Chapel at Kurpem
Who Might Not Enjoy This Experience?
This trip may not be ideal for:
Travelers expecting luxury sightseeing
Visitors looking for nightlife-focused tourism
Guests uncomfortable with long road journeys
People expecting commercial tourist infrastructure around the location
People sensitive to Heat as this Experience takes place in the peak of Summers
Travelers who do not like to walk for distances in the sun
Frequently Asked Questions About Kurdi Goa
Is Kurdi village visible throughout the year?
No. Kurdi is usually visible only during peak summer, especially during May when water levels recede.
Why was Kurdi submerged?
The village became part of the submergence zone created after the construction of the Salaulim Dam.
Can you visit Kurdi without a guide?
Yes, but seasonal access and navigation without network can be confusing without a local guide.
What is special about Salaulim Dam?
Salaulim Dam is known for its duckbill spillway system, which is unique in Goa.
Is the Kurdi experience beginner-friendly?
Yes. The trip mainly involves scenic riding and light exploration, making it suitable for most travelers. However, moderate endurance against the heat will be needed.
Final Thoughts
The lost city of Kurdi is one of the most unusual and emotionally powerful places to visit in Goa.
Combining scenic South Goa roads, engineering landmarks like Salaulim Dam, submerged ruins, heritage storytelling, and authentic local experiences, the journey offers a completely different perspective on Goa beyond its beaches and nightlife.
For travelers seeking hidden places, meaningful stories, and immersive exploration, Kurdi remains one of Goa’s most unforgettable offbeat experiences.
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