ECO-TOURISM

Game for Wildlife Sanctuaries?






Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park


Situated along the North East border of Goa at Molem, about one-and-a-half hours’ journey from Panaji (60 kms), the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary covers 240 sq.kms of thick forest clad slopes on the Western Ghats and its valleys and is the biggest of the three sanctuaries of Goa. Rich in wildlife, it is a paraside for bird watchers. Besides flora and fauna, there are many important geological and historical features in this sanctuary. Dushsagar 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. Entry fee Rs.10/- per adult, Rs.5/- per child and Rs.3/- per student.






Bondla Forest





52 kms. from Panaji and 36 kms. from Margao, it is the smaller of the three wildlife sanctuaries of Goa. More then 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, , Botanical gardens, Nature Education Centre, wildlife and nature trails, and archaeological exhibit attract people through the year.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

The second largest of the three wildlife sanctuaries in Goa, with an area of 105 sq. kms. is located about 76 kms. from Panaji, in Cancona Taluka in South Goa.. It is covered with dense forest and varied wildlife. The ancient Jeevottam Partagal Math, noted for its Vedic studies, lies in the vicinity of the sanctuary.

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Spread over 1.78 Sq. kms. and located at the western tip of the island of Chorao along the 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 on foot after crossing over by ferry from Ribandar to Chorao. There area some private parties who take tourists around in their canoes fitted with outboard motors.

Forever GOA.