Wildlife In Goa

Being considered as a treat for wildlife lovers and photographers, the wildlife sanctuaries of Goa offer exotic wildlife with varied species of animals and birds along with beautiful flora & fauna in abundance. Peace lovers can also visit the sanctuaries surrounded with lush greenery far from the bustling city life. Here are some popular wildlife sanctuaries of Goa.

1. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Along the North Eastern border of Goa, Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary is situated at Molem, 13 km away from the well-known Mahadeva Temple at Tambi Surla. About 240 sq.km of slopes cladded with dense forest on the Western Ghats, 60 km away from Panaji, this Wildlife Sanctuary also has valleys. It is the biggest wild life sanctuary among all others in Goa. One can get to see numerous species of birds, flora and fauna, geological and historical features in abundance. Dudhsagar is only at an hour’s distance from Colem by train, the ‘Devil Canyon’ is an attractive geological spot nearby.

Comfortable cottages and dormitories have been built by the Department of Tourism for the tourists.

  • Famous for : Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Entrance Fee : Rs.10/- Per Adult, Rs.5/- Per Child and Rs.3/- Per Student
  • Visiting Time : 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM on All Days of the Week

2. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Along the Mandovi River, at the western tip of island of Chorao near Panaji is located Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary covering an area of 1.78 Sq. km. It has mangrove species spread all over. Varied migratory and local birds can be seen here. With the permission of the Chief Wildlife Warden, Forest Department, Junta House, Panaji, this sanctuary can be visited anytime of the year. The sanctuary is at a walking distance, after traveling through ferry from Ribandar to Chorao. Other private boats like canoes also take tourists around.

  • Famous for : Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Entrance Fee : Rs.10/- Per Person Indian/Foreign Tourist
  • Camera Charges : Rs.25/- Per Still Camera, Rs.30/- Per Camcorder
  • Visiting Time : 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days of the week.

3. Bondla Wildllife Sanctuary

The Bodla Wildlife Sanctuary is the smallest in Goa and yet the most popular among the other wildlife sanctuaries. Located 38km from Margoa, it is filled with lush greeneries and one can even book jungle resorts. The sanctuary is a major attraction for nature lovers and school going children. The common animals that can be seen over here include the Gaur (a species of bison) and the Sambhal deer. Tourists can also get an elephant ride while enjoying the sights around the flora and fauna of the sanctuary.

  • Famous For : Wildlife animals like leopard and Gaur
  • Entrance Fee : Rupees 5 (adults) Rupees 2 (Children)
  • Camera Charges : Rs 25
  • Visiting Time : 9am – 5pm (closed on Thursdays)

4. Molem Wildlife Sanctuary

The Molem Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Bhagwan Mahaveer sanctuary and is one of the main parts of the sanctuary. Located in Sanguam region, the best time to explore this sanctuary is during November to March. The jungle safaris are one of the main attractions of the park and is loved by photographers for its unusual set of animal. The park also has a trekking trail, a 12th century temple, viewpoints and waterfalls. Some of the animals that can be spotted in the sanctuary include Bengal tiger, black panther, civet and wild boar.

  • Famous For : Endangered animals
  • Entrance Fee : Rs 20 (Adults) Rs 5(kids)
  • Camera Charges : Rs 30
  • Visiting Time : 8 Am – 5.30 Pm

5. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

The Cotigao wildlife sanctuary is located in Palolem and is the second largest sanctuary in Goa. The sanctuary has really tall trees that goes upto 30 mm and a collection of rare plants and is quite a dense forest. The park shares borders with the state of Karnataka. Even though the forest is quite dense, it is not so rich when it comes to animal spotting. The tigers and leopards in the area where hunted and killed years ago and the animals just come close to the forest for water. While there are panthers, bears and other animals, they rarely come out and prefer to stay inside the dense forest. The forest department has set tree houses and cottages in the forest and for all those enthusiastic about wildlife, can spend a day or two over here.

  • Famous For : Rare plants and trees
  • Entrance Fee : Rs 5
  • Camera Charges : Rs 25
  • Visiting Time : 7am – 5.30pm

6. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary is located in North Goa and is a bird watcher’s paradise. With a wide range of wildlife and a variety of bird species, any nature lover could find their true calling over here. The sanctuary is known for the spotting of Bengal tigers and one can even trek through some of the trails. The sanctuary also has many waterfalls. The sanctuary has set up water rafting for those water lovers out there. The sanctuary is a huge attraction for herpetologist as it contains a large variety of snakes including some of the rare ones such as the Indian krait, Russels Viper, Saw-scaled viper and the spectacled cobra.

  • Famous For : Bengal Tiger and snakes
  • Visiting Time : 5am – 5.30 pm

7. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated in Eastern Goa, the wildlife sanctuary is a significant source of fresh water. In fact, it is named after the tributary Neturli of Zuari river. High mountain ranges are part of the sanctuary and the local residents of the area culturally worship it. The sanctuary is known for spotting black panther, Giant squirrel, Great Indian hornbill and a number of snakes.

  • Famous For : Black Panther
  • Visiting Time : 8.30am – 4.30 pm