Set amidst the picturesque surroundings of a sleepy Goan village, the Mayem Lake is a popular tourist picnic in North Goa. Even the journey to reach the lake is a beautiful one on a winding Goan road through the thickets of cashew trees, areca nut trees and pineapple plantations.

The region around the lake is hilly, and the slopes are covered with forests and wild cashews. Around the lake are vendors selling trinkets and snacks most notably coconuts and coconut water.

Where to Go
Located in the Bicholim Taluka of North Goa, the Mayem Lake is just a few kilometers east of Mapusa, and can easily be reached using public transport.

When to Go
Although the lake is beautiful all through the year, this place is most popular during the tourist season i.e. from October to March. However, a monsoon on the lake is also an unforgettable experience since this is the time that Goa is at its greenest and nature’s beauty really unfolds.

Where to Stay
Mayem is surrounded by a plethora of things to do and places to see. A day trip is not always enough time to really enjoy this lesser known portion of Goa. Fortunately the GTDC Mayem LakeView Resort is located practically on the lake. The resort endeavors to provide tourists with affordable yet comfortable accommodation as well as a number of other add-ons and services.

What to Do
For the history buffs the picturesque Corjuem fort, is just a short road trip away. Set amidst the glorious surroundings and scenic vistas, this is also a great place for a picnic. The historic Arvalem caves are also located close by here.

Those on the lookout for religious architecture and tourism, the famous Rudreshwar temple is located in the nearby village of Sanquelim, near the Arvalem caves which also have religious significance. The Chamundi temple at Pilligao is also worth a visit. The deity of this temple far predates the temple itself as it was brought here from Velha Goa, for safekeeping during the invasion of Malik Kafur in 1312.

Nature lovers would be pleased to note that the Arvalem waterfall is also located near here, as is the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, which boasts a number of rare animals and plants as well as being one of the best places to view the biodiversity of the Western Ghats. The sanctuary is hoping to soon be a Tiger Reserve as well, and is accounted a great place for tiger watching.

Adventure sport enthusiasts can get their adrenaline rush with the white water rafting facilities which have been set up on the Mhadei River. The trip begins with a meeting spot at Valpoi, which is a few kilometres south east of Mayem. White water rafting is a great way to combine a love of adventure with a quick look at the Mhadei Sanctuary.

A great place to visit any time of the year, and an even better place to stay, the Mayem Lake offers peace and tranquility to those who need to take a break and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.