Wild Life

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary - Situated at Molem, 60 km from Panaji

Situated along the North-East border of Goa at Molem, about one and half hours journey from Panaji 60 Kms along Panaji-Belgaum National Highway, the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary covers 240 sq.kms. of thich forest clad sploes of Western ghats and its valleys and is the biggest of the three sanctuaries of Goa. The sanctuary is rich in wildlife. It is a paradise for bird watchers. Besides flora and fauna there are many important geological and historical features in this sanctuary. Dudhsagar falls, about an hour's journey from Colem by train, is a feast for the eyes. The "Devil Canyon" is another beautiful geological spot. The famous Tambdi Surla Temple is about 13 kms from Molem.

Bondla Forest - 38 km from Margao

Bondla Forest 50 Kms - 38 Kms from Margao. More than a sanctuary it is an ideal jungle resort and a major attraction for school going children and nature lovers. Its mini zoos, sprawling deer park in natural habitat, botanical and rose gardens attract people throughout the year. Up in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Bondla is being promoted by the Department of Tourism and is a good place to see sambar and wild boar among other things. It's the smallest of the Goan wildlife sanctuaries but the only one at present which has accommodatioon for those wishing to stay more than a day. The Zoological Park and gardens at Bondla remain closed on Thursdays.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary - 60 km from Panaji on the Panaji Mangalore National Highway

The second largest of the three wildlife sanctuaries in Goa, with an area of 105 sq. Kms. is located at about 60 Kms from Panaji, in Canacona taluka in South Goa, nearly 3 kms off the Panaji-Mangalore National Highway No.17. It is covered with dense forest and varied wildlife, avi fauna and reptiles. The ancient Jeevottam Partagal Math, noted for vedic studies, lies in the vicinity of the sanctuary.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary - Located on the Western tip of the island of Chorao along river river Mandovi near Panaji

Spread over 1.78 Sq Kms and located at the western tip of the island of Chorao along river Mandovi near Panaji. It is fully covered with mangrove species. Varieties of local as well as migratory birds frequently visit the area. This Sanctuary can be visited any time of the year with the permission of the Chief Wild Life Warden, Forest Department, Junta House, Panaji - Goa. the sanctuary is approachable by walk after crossing over by ferry from Ribandar to Chorao. There are some private parties who can take tourists around in their canoes fitted with outboard motors.

More National Parks and Wild Life Sanctuaries in India