52 kms. from Panaji, 36 kms. from Margao. It is the smaller of the three wildlife sanctuaries of Goa. More than a sanctuary it is an ideal jungle resort, a major attraction for school going children and nature lovers. Its mini Zoological Park, Deer Safari Park, formal gardens, Botanical gardens, Nature Education Centre, Birdlife, Wild animals, Nature Trails, Archaeological exhibit attract people through the year. Comfortable cottages are available here for tourists. The Zoological Park and garden at Bondla remain closed on Thursdays.
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Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
The second largest of the three wildlife sanctuaries in Goa, with an area of 105 sq.kms. is located at about 76 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.
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Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
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 thick forest clad slopes 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 Lord Mahadeva Temple situated at Tambdi Surla is about 13 kms. from Molem. The Department of Tourism has built comfortable cottages and dormitories for tourists.
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Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
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 anytime of the year with the permission of the Chief Wildlife 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 take tourists around in their canoes fitted with outboard motors.
