Goa, famous for its sun-kissed beaches and vibrant nightlife, conceals a rare treasure in its varied wildlife sanctuaries. Far from the busy beaches exists a world vibrant with exotic flora and fauna, giving a taste of the ecological bounty that nature lovers would cherish. In case you're interested in knowing about the wild side of Goa, here are the top seven wildlife sanctuaries in Goa purported to give an unforgettable experience.
About 240 sq. km, the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is Goa's largest wildlife sanctuary. Blessed with the wealth of the Western Ghats, the sanctuary is an abode for leopards, elephants, and the endemic gaur, among many other species. The holy site also harbours one of the most conspicuous, beautiful and amazing tourist wonders, the Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Tourists can pack guided treks for even more adventure in the deep forest where wildlife can be spotted in natural habitat.
At the western tip of Chorao Island along the Mandovi, one finds the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, which is a bird-watcher's and ornithologist's wonderland. A mangrove swamp that brings forth many birds, like eagles, kingfishers, and mynas. The best bet is the early-morning visit, for then the melodic calls of various birds fill the place with grandeur. The mangroves are accessible by boat rides through them, immersing one in the reality of the winged wonder.
It is the pocket-sized heart and crimson blood of Canacona Taluka, South Goa, set in 1968. The area is about 86 square kilometres with dense forests, which have tall trees up to 30m. The flying squirrel, slender loris, and four-horned antelope are some species found in this sanctuary. The salient feature is the treetop observation tower located 25 m above a watering hole to allow visitors a unique vantage point for viewing animals at dawn and dusk. The sanctuary offers eight nature trails with lengths that vary from 500 metres to 5 kilometres for the casual walker to the serious trekker.
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The smallest sanctuary in India with an area of just 7.98 km, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary possesses so much variety. The reserve comes from the northeast edge of Goa and was established for the rescue of leopards and other animals that have suffered harm due to human-wildlife conflicts. The animal collection includes the Indian bison, Malabar giant squirrel, and sambar deer. A botanical garden, a zoo for gaurs breeding, and nature trails that wind round about the green cover are other attractions. It is a place where family outings and visits could enjoy experiencing the delightful gift of nature in Goa.
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Molem Wildlife Sanctuary, which is an integral part of the Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary, is situated in Sanguem Taluka. Molem Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its rich biodiversity, including black panthers, Bengal tiger, and several snake species. The Wildlife Sanctuary organizes guided safaris for tourists, allowing them to see the grand mammals in their habitat. A 12th-century Shiva temple within the sanctuary, the Tambdi Surla Temple, adds a historical layer to the visit by interweaving nature and heritage.
The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in North Goa, extends over an area of 208 square kilometres. It is within the UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Site of the Western Ghats and has rugged terrain and dense forests. Being home to diverse fauna like tigers, leopards, and innumerable birds, the sanctuary also has several waterfalls, like Vazra Sakla and Virdi Falls, that add to its charm. The flowing Mhadei River bestows the lushness upon this sanctuary, and any nature lover would love it.
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Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary extends into Southeast Goa with a state area of 211 square kilometres. The sanctuary serves as a significant corridor within the Western Ghats and moist deciduous forests peppered with evergreen and semi-evergreen habitats. This places it in the habitat with the Malabar giant squirrel, four-horned antelope, and several species of bird, such as the great pied hornbill. The sanctuary can be travelled through several nature trails, and it consists of two perennial waterfalls.
Exploring these wildlife sanctuaries in Goa brings a refreshing atmosphere apart from the beach-centric itinerary. From the real and passionate naturalists to those just-wondering tourists, these centuries complement unforgettable experiences showcasing Goa's untamed and wild beauty.
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