Goa State

Beyond The Sunny Beaches

An Ecotourist’s Guide
to the Wildlife Sanctuaries of Goa

Forest Department
Government of Goa

Goa: Cozily nestled between the rumbling waves of the Arabian Sea and the rising hump of the Western Ghats is the small emerald land - Goa, where palm fringed shore of India’s western coast spills over with the bounty of nature.

In course of time, Goa has touched the hearts of visitors in many ways. Goa is fascinating from the sandy beaches and sunny resorts to the mighty forts and memorable monuments.

Goa also provides a natural habitat to a range of birds and animals in the midst of a rich vegetation, well preserved as wildlife sanctuaries. Untouched and unspoilt by pollution, they are beckoning.

Come and experience these unique places of flora and fauna. The sunkissed, wind-touched and rain-washed wildlife world.

A sojourn away from the dust and din of the city, that offers a cool respite.

About the Wildlife Protected Areas of Goa
Around 755 sq. km i.e. 20 percent of the total geographical area of 3702 sq. km of the state has been constituted into wildlife protected areas to afford complete protection to the natural fauna and flora and to conserve the unique biological diversity of the State. These areas are located along the verdant Western Ghats - one of the richest reservoirs of biodiversity in the world. The section that lie within Goa (the Sahyadris) and which dominates its ecosytem, readily reflects this bewildering complexity in plant, animal and bird life.

The highly undulating terrain and the thickly wooded lots test the patience of the visitors intent on quickly sighting land animals. While you wait to sight the fauna these sanctuaries have to offer, it is, however well worth your while to luxuriate also in the peace and silence of the majestic moist deciduous and semi evergreen forests, dense and green with tall trees, lianas, vines, climbers, ground flora and fauna. The hills and valleys are lush green and cotton like clouds roll freely in the area.

The common fauna found in these sanctuaries are Indian bison, sambar, cheetal, barking deer, mouse deer, hog deer, sloth bear, black faced langur, wild boar, giant squirrel etc. And carnivores like leopard, jungle cat, wild dog, civets, jackals etc. The reptilian fauna is also very rich and a wide variety of snakes, monitor lizards and crocodiles can be seen. Elephants and tigers frequently visit these sanctuaries from across the borders. A diverse variety of colourful birds mes-merise the visitors with its enchanting beauty and unbelievable cacaphony also found in these sanctuaries to keep the birdwatcher busy amidst thick woods.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
With just 8 sq. km. area, Bondla is rather small. However, it boasts of a Mini Zoo, Deer Safari Park, Formal Gardens, Botanic Gardens and Ecotourism Cottages.

Late evenings and nights are very pleasant Bondla is a paradise for ecotourists.

The area is covered with moist deciduous forests, with small patches of evergreens and canes along the nullahs. The state tree Terminalia Crenulata (Matti) and Rosewood are common here.

Gaur, the state animal is frequently seen here. Panther, jungle cat, leopard cat, toddy cat, deer, wild boars, procupines, ant eaters, squirrels are some of the other animals here. Over a hundred species of birds are also residents.

What to see
Zoological Park - A tiny Zoo permits one to see the fauna of Goa in moated enclosures with natural surroundings. Animal exhibits include elephant, Panther, Lion, Gaur, Sambar, Deers, Sloth Bear, Porcupine, Wild Boar, Crocodiles, Reptiles etc.

Deer Safari Park - Visitors can move among deers in vehicles inside the sprawling Deer Safari Park housing Sambar and Spotted Deers.

Formal Gardens - Spacious lawns, exotic trees, Varieties of roses, and colourful flowering plants in the middle of the forest do please the eye.

Botanical Gardens - The large collection of plants is of interest to students.

Nature Education Centre - The NEC houses several exhibits, which visitors can see, feel and interpret. An attached library provides details to the inquisitive, and video and cine movies are screened on request.

Birdlife - Bondla is home to over a hundred bird species. For details on bird-watching areas contact the Park Range Office.

Wild Animals - For those seeking greater adventure and excitement, we have watch-towers where wild animals like Gaur, Sambar, Wild Boar can be seen at water-holes However, sighting of animals is mere luck.

Nature Trails - For the more energetic the Nature Trails provide information simultaneously affording opportunities to see nature as it is.

Archeological exhibit - One of the best worked images of deity “Gajalaxmi” with several motives in bold relief belonging to the period between VI and VIII century venerated by ancient settlers are located here.

The zoo, deer safari, and garden are closed for public on thursdays.,

Where to stay?
This sanctuary has been developed with a view to accommodate day as well as overnight visitors. It has furnished ecotourism cottages, which can accommodate 24 persons and 2 dormitories with a total of 48 beds. A spacious restaurant “The Den” adequately caters to the food requirement of the visitor.

How to get there?
By Road:
Bondla is off National Highway 4A (Belgaum - Panaji). Branch off. at Mollem.

Route: Mollem - Satpal Sancorda - Shivddem - Bondla. (20 kms). Branch off. at Tiska Route: Tiska - Usgaon - Ganhem - Bondla (14 kms).
Route : Margao - Ponda-Usgao-Ganjem-Bondla (36 kms)
Panjim-Ponda-Usgao-Ganjem-Bondla (52 kms).

By Rail: Collem- (on the Marmagao Hubli line of South Central Railway),
Route: Collem-Mollem-Sancorda-Shivddem-Bondla: 28 kms.

Carambolim (Karmali Railway Station - Konkan Railway)
Route: Carambolim - Old Goa-Ponda-Usgao-Ganjem-Bondla: 40 kms.

By air: Dabolim-Ponda-Usgao-Ganjem-Bondla (70 kms)

Transport
The Forest Department is contemplating to run a bus service from TISKA to BONDLA everyday, except Thursday.
Dep. Tiska 11.00 hrs & 19.30 hrs
Dep. Bondla 07.30 hrs & 17.45 hrs

*It is better to have one’s own transport or hired taxi to avoid inconvenience, though hired taxi is little bit costly.

Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary & Mollem National Park
Jointly they form the largest contiguous wildlife protected area, covering 240 sq. kms in Goa. Thick forests varying from moist deciduous to evergreen types can be seen here.

The dense vegetation provides ample cover to wild animals. If you are lucky, the largest herbivore - the magnificent Gaur can be seen here. Other herebivores found here are: Deer, WIld Boar, and many more. The carnivores - Tiger, Panther, Jungle Cat and Leopard cat can also be seen. By & large the sightings are poor.

Besides flora and fauna there are many important geographical and historical features in this sanctuary.

Dudhsagar falls is the highest and largest waterfalls of Goa, hidden in the bowl shaped evergreen valley in the Western Ghats.

What to See?
Dudhsagar Falls - Hidden away in an evergreen valley in the Westerm Ghats the highest and largest waterfalls of Goa, cascades down 306 mts in two segments, 10 km from Collem is a trekking paradise.

Devil’s Canyon - A formation of rock broken into criss-cross sections and under water passages through which Dudshsagar river flows with great turbulence.

Lord Mahadev’s Temple -This 13th Century A.D. temples is the only one constructed from black basalt in Goa. It is 13 km from Mollem, situated at Tambdi Surla.

Nature Interpretation Centre - Located at Mollem within the Park Complex, It is a store house of information on nature, environment and wildlife.

Ghat Road- A drive along NH 4 upto the border of Goa is full of scenic and memorable facets of the Landscape.

Sunset Point- Combine the charm and beauty, commanding extensive pannoramic view of hills and vallys. The sunset and sunshine can be seen at the same time from here on a full moon evening. A spot to have a data with nature. While you are there watch out for the sloth bear and our state animal- Gaur. Get a telescope view of the blue water of Arabian Sea and golden beaches. Experience the thrill of negotiating the meandering 9 km track with your own four wheeler.

Bhandaras and Mineral water springs - Beckons you with the awe-inspiring sight of magnificent wildlife.

Bolcornem Nursery - Cradle for the future forest formations, ideal for field study.

How to reach there?
By Road: National Highway 4A cuts through the Sanctuary. All inter state buses from Belgaum, Hubli, Bangalore halt at Mollem where the Park Office is located.

Route: Panaji-Ponda-Tiska-Mollem. (57 kms)
Margao-Ponda-Tiska-Mollem (42 kms)

By Rail:
Nearest Station: Collem (South Central Railway);
Route: Collem-Mollem - 6 km

Carambolim (Karmali Railway Station - Konkan Railways),
Route: Carambolim-Old Goa-Ponda-Tiska-Mollem-50 km.

By Air:
Nearest Airport : Dabolim;
Route : Dabolim-Margao-Ponda-Tiska-Mollem-67 km.

Where to stay
There is no accommodation under the administrative control of Wildlife & Ecotourism Wing at present at Mollem. However, the Forest Department has one suite available at the Forest Rest House-Mollem, booking for which can be done with the Dy. Conservator of Forest (North Goa) Dhavli-Ponda (Tel.: 0832 - 2312095)

The Goa Tourism Development Corporation manages one Forest Resort Complex having Cottages & Dormitories for tourists at Mollem.
Please contact telephone No:- 0832 - 2226728 / 2226515 / 2224132 / 2612238

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Spread over 1.78 sq.kms, this sanctuary is located on the western end of the island of Chorao along River Mandovi near Panaji.

The whole area has Mangrove vegetation of 14 different species and is covered by a network of criss-cross water channels having tidal variations. It is a suitable habitat for plankton, shrimps, prawns and small fish.

During winter, between November and January, migratory birds flock in thousands to feed on the banks of river Mandovi, adjoining the sanctuary. Apart from that, a number of resident birds and a few animals can also be seen inside the sanctuary.

Watch Towers provide an excellent view of the sanctuary and its birdlife. To get a feel of mangrove vegetation boats and canoes can be hired run by private people from Chorao jetty.

With the variety of colourful resident & migratory birds, mangrove flora & fauna, and the lush green surrounding with the Mandovi water flowing through the creeks, particularly during low tide it is a feast to the eyes to this totally different ecosystem and feel its enchanting beauty amidst the calls of birds break the silence which mes-merise the visitors one can wake on. Raised pathways camouflaged by mangrove vegetation to commune with nature. A boat ride in the early misty hours of the morning can be magical. An intricate network of shimmering waterways embroider the richly green lanscape adding charm to every details of the mangrove.

Location:
Chorao Island is 5 km from Panaji, Margao is 40 km away, and Bicholim is at a distance of 18 km. The sanctuary is located on the west end of the island. It is accessible by ferry from Ribandar, which is on the southern bank of the river Mandovi.

What you can experience?
Boat and Canoe Excursion. As tidal water impose some restrictions on the movement inside the sanctuary, you can use boats during high tide, and canoes during low tide. Boats and canoes are available on hire. Motor boats are not allowed to operate inside the sanctuary to avoid noise pollution.

Birds Eye-View- You can go up the watch-tower, and get an excellent view of the sanctuary and its wildlife.

Birds Feeding: Take a look at birds feeding in the river waters. You will enjoy it.

Besides birds at Dr. Salim Ali Sanctuary, one may stroll through the magnificent Mangrove forests in tranquility. Pneumato-phores (aerial respiratory roots) are clearly visible during the low tides. The main species are Rhizophora, Avicennia, Brugueria, Exocaria, Sonneratia etc.

How to Reach?
The Forest Department operates one motor boat to take visitors inside the sanctuary. It is available from the Chorao ferry jetty, which can be reached by ferry plying from Ribandar. Distances to Ribandar from some of the places are given below: It is better to hire private boats & canoes operated from Chorao jetty to avoid loss of time in waiting for forest department boat.

Panaji - 3 kms
Margao - 35 kms
Bicholim - 18 kms
Carambolim Rly Stn - 12 kms

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
This sanctuary is representative of the ecosystem of the Western Ghats region. Which is located on southern end of Goa abutting Karnataka.

Leafy trees of the moist deciduous type densely cover this area. Some of those are among the loftiest ones, attaining heights of about 30 metres.

Though there are many animals, they are all scattered in small pockets at various spots inside the sanctuary. However, birds are aplenty throughout. About 200 species could be seen, including the Indian Pied Hornbill, Larger Golden Backed Woodpecker And the Great Indian Woodpecker.

The Nature Interpretation Centre at the sanctuary houses wildlife exhibits and a library, which are open to all visitors.

Things of Interest to Ecotourists

* Dense Multistoried Forests with tall trees and rare plants where hardly any light reaches the ground.
* Perennial streams (Talpons river) and pitcturesque undulating terrain with a variety of wildlife, a paradise for birdwatchers.
*Acient Jeevothan Partagal Math noted for vedic studies is in the vicinity of sanctuary. An ancient Banyan Tree here which covers vast area is a botanical miracle.
* Nature interpretation centre with exhibits and mini-library, which is a great source of information to the visitor.
*Watch towers, Water holes, Bhandaras, Salt licks for viewing animals. - The sight of wild animals moving casually in their natural habitat is a refreshing experience.

* The Bela lake, where one can relax in fresh air after a long promenade through the forests, amidst the sylvan serenity of wooded plains. The solitude tranquality, gentle breeze and stars spangled sky here are all enchanting beyond words.
* The tree top at Bhutpal - whose immediate environment affords a sylvan and peaceful retreat for body and mind- and wake to the tune of chirping birds and rustling leaves.
* Plantations with a host of variety of insects & butterflies.
* An exciting place for cycling and trekking, offers some of the finest vistas of the undulating terrain.
* Films on nature & wildlife on 16 mm screen.
* Gurgling Waters and Gathering Spots, ideal picnic spots or to laze.
* Early settlers living in their traditional ways, its distinct social and cultural life.
* The Famous temple of Parshurama, who according to the mythology created Goa, is situated opposite Forest Rest House.
* Turtle Nesting Sites at Galgibag & Agonda Beaches.
* Ancient temple at Kuskem is well worth exploring.

How to reach there
By road from Panaji to Margao (32 kms) onto Canacona (36.8 kms) and further down for 7 kms on NH-17 up to Poinguinim. Then to the left at the entrance board of the sanctuary, is a small settlement from where the boundary of the Sanctuary starts. About 2 kms further is the sanctuary gate at Shisheval.

Where to Stay
The Forest Department can provide accommodation in The 4 - bed capacity in Forest Rest House at Poinguinim (4 kms). For which please contact Dy. Conservator of Forest - (South Goa), Madgaon Tel. No. 0832 - 750246

Besides an Ecotourism Complex at Hathipal (entry point of Sanctuary) provides 4 bed capacity tents, one twin bedded mini cottage & one medium size cottage which can accommodate 4-6 persons.

Best time to Visit
The best season to visit the Sanctuaries is from October to March. However, during the monsoon (June to September) also it is enchanting to visit the widlerness of Goa, which is at its best at this time of the year and truly a feast for the eyes.

Interesting Eco-touristic spots beyond the wildlife protected areas

Sacred groves - located at Bambar in Satari Taluka is the abode of rare medicinal plants refuse for a unique forest- classified ads Myristca Swamp Forest having great ecological siginificance. This grove is known to exist for the last 250 year and the reigning deity is the God”Nirankar”. one of the uniqe feature of the trees in this habitat is the presence of numerous aerial roots in the shape of :u”arching th mud.

Cumbarjua Canal - 15 km. stretch of water, Link Zuari with Mandovi river,a vibrant mangrove habitat, home for fresh water or marsh crocodile and migratory birds. Boat cruise packages are being thoughtfully designed by enthusiastic people to give visitors most memorable experience. The enchanting journey will take through the river to the picturesque back waters.

Mayem lake - A calm spread of water with geese and pedal boats in the midst of green hills is an exciting experience, where one can commune with nature. As you drive to the lake, the picturesque countryside with lovely villages and smiling folks on the way, offers a spectacular sight.

Turtle Nesting Sites - Morjim, Galgibag and Agonda beaches- the largest nesting places of the giant olive ridley turle. An amazing phenomena of nature, this is a regular annual occurrence since 1997-98. While earlier it was hunting ground for sea turtles, today it is a modal conservation centre for turtles.

Carambolim lake - Adding to the charm of the quiet village of Carambolim is the scenic reservoir fringed by lush greenery. Migratory birds seek this verdant landscape every year to frolic in the natural splendor till the end of the season. The cacophony of 80 different varieties of birds is unbelievable, tending to their young in the mixed heronries on the aquatic vegetation. Jacanas with their iridescent colours and the spectacular purple moorhens can be seen delicately treading over the floating vegetation.

Satpal arboratum - Established in 1972, is about 3 kms from Mollem. A number of research plots have been laid here. The Arboratum is ideally suited to meet the requirement of students for their field studies.

Netravalli lake - This lake in Sanguem Taluka has unique characteristics; there are continuous bubbles emerging on the lake surface, and upon clapping the intensity of the bubbles grow, with live springs, which suddenly gushes out in full spectacle.

Kesarval springs - Flowing thorough the woods at Quelossim off the Panjim-Margao Highway NH-17, the spring emerges from hard and compact rocks and people bathe in its water with strong belief that it has medicinal properties. Besides this spring, the springs at Socoile (Fort Aguada), Pomburpa, (Fondvem), Candolim, Camurlim in Bardez taluka. Keri in Ponda, Maina in Battim village - Tiswadi Taluka are others of interest. This waters run unadvertised, though full of health and curative power.

Arvalem Water fall - in Bicholim Taluka is set amidst verdure and sylvan surroundings. At this beautiful spot, streams tricks as they make their way through the landscape and waters roar as they cascade down the mountains from a height of 70 ft. The forests here offer a soothing canopy. One can descend the staircase to look at a majestic waterfall shedding its exuberant silvery showers. The fall is best seen when in full flux just after the copious monsoon, when it presents a rapturous, ravishing and riotous aspect.

Arvalem Caves - The celebrated caves of Arvalem, belonging to a remote era, are in a westerly direction not far away from the temple of Rudreshwar and are of archaeological interest. A mythical background is attached to these caves.

Salaulim dam - The monochromatic landscape, its silent, serene splendour beckons the travelor to relax secured in the secluded warmth of nature. A quaint picnic spot ideal for a languorous break is an exhilarating experience.

Driving to the these places with your own vehicle will be always an exhilarating and memorable experience.

We strongly recommend to have one’s transport or a hired vehicle throughout the day to avoid problems & wastage of time.

How to get more inoformation:

Contact:
Office of the Chief Conservator of Forests
Govt. of Goa
Gomantak Maratha Samaj Building,
Panaji-Goa
Tel:- (0832) 2225926 (O) / 2224747 (O) / 2223508 (R) Mb.: 9422439953,
Fax:- (0832) 2224747

Dy. Conservator of Forest - Wildlife & Eco-Tourism
3rd Floor, Junta House, Panaji 403 001
Tel.: (0832) 2229701 (O) / 2421188 (R)

Range Forest Officer, Wildlife
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary,
Tel.: (0832) 2610022

Range Forest Officer, Wildlife
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park - Mollem
Tel.: (0832)2612211

Range Forest Officer, Wildlife
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary - Campal, Panaji-Goa
Tel.: (0832) 2228772

Range Forest Officer, Wildlife
Cotigaon Wildlife Sanctuary - Canacona.
Tel.: (0832) 2644263