Top 7 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa You Must Visit in 2026
Explore Goa's well-known wildlife sanctuaries as we go on a tour of its natural beauties.
Popular Wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa: Goa is one of the very reputed and utmost beautiful states which lies in western India sharing its coastlines with the mighty Arabian Sea. Bestowed by colonial Portuguese architecture and housing beauties like 17th century churches which exemplifies its charm and beauty leaving the locals and tourists in awe with its fascinating and utmost beautiful views.
Goa is very well recognised for its mighty beaches such as Baga and Palolem let alone the very fine laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda. Being a great tourist destination, it is very obvious to offer several amazing attractions and points of interest however in this article below, we would be precisely discussing the wildlife sanctuaries in Goa which is truly worth a visit.
The article covers the following subjects:
7 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries In Goa
If you thought Goa was just about parties, beaches, dancing the nights away and drinking then wait till we tell you about the beautiful and rich in flora and fauna, wildlife sanctuaries in Goa. For those who wish to get closer to mother nature and simply enjoy the refreshing aura of nature, these wildlife sanctuaries are perfect!
1. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
2. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
4. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
5. Molem Wildlife Sanctuary
6. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
7. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located at the western tip of the Chorao Island right along the mighty Mandovi River. It is a very fascinating mangrove swamp, ‘an ornithologist’s paradise’ and one of the top wildlife sanctuaries in Goa.
If you are a keen bird lover then this place is simply meant for you without an inch of doubt or hesitation as it is known to be home to a variety of exotic birds. Visitors can experience and enjoy the boat rides in the sanctuary’s vicinity and this place is simply perfect for visitors travelling with family and friends.
There is a wide variety of birds seen and witnessed here such as Eagles, Drongos, Kingfishers, Myna, Kites, Curlews, Sandpiper, Redshank and Hoopoe. Early morning or late evening are usually recommended to witness the charm and beauty of the sanctuary at its very best.
Location: Chorao Island, Ilhas, Ribandar, Goa 403006
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Also Read: Best Beaches in Goa
2. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
This may be the smallest of all the wildlife sanctuaries in Goa but it is certainly one of the finest in the region for several reasons. It lies in the Ponda region and is well situated slightly away from the coast covering quite a decent distance of about 8 sq. km long natural reserve and it is gracefully set amidst lush green Western Ghats.
You will have the opportunity to see the wide range of wildlife species such as Indian Bison, Sambar Deer, Indian Peafowl, Malabar Giant Squirrel, a variety of deer and snakes.
It is an amazing jungle resort with Eco-Tourism cottages which makes it nothing but a paradise for nature enthusiasts where they have the opportunity to stay and explore the very beautiful yet diverse wildlife. Nevertheless, there is a zoological park, botanical and rose garden and of course a very beautiful yet an expansive deer park. This sanctuary is indeed an ideal spot to enjoy the perfect picturesque natural ambience.
Location: Usgao-Ganjem VP, Goa 403105
Best time to visit: Recommended to visit between December and January
Also Read: Best Churches in Goa
3. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
Molem Wildlife Sanctuary is the core area of Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary has been crowned as the largest wildlife sanctuaries in Goa. It is well located in the Sanguem region of Goa and is widely visited by tourists as well as locals. You can see and witness a wide variety of wildlife species in their natural habitat such as Barking Deer, Black Panther, Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Bonnet Macaque, Wild Boar and several others.
It is a haven for bird lovers as the sanctuary is said to be home to 120 plus species of birds and to name few we can start with Wagtails, Fairy Bluebird, Three-Toed Kingfisher, Drongo, Great Indian Hornbill and Golden Oriole.
It is very well reputed and recognised for its magnificent and very adventurous jungle safari and this said sanctuary is, of course, a very ideal place for trekking trails in Goa.
Location: NH 4A, Caranzol, Goa 403410
Best time to visit: Best explored in between November to March.
Also Read: Forts in Goa
4. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
It is merely a new addition to the list of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Goa however the said spot has made it possible to earn its share fair of credit for being one of the finest attractions in the state. It is very well located in the Sanguem Taluka of Eastern Goa and the entire sanctuary is said to stretch over an area of 211 sq. km amidst the enchanting Western Ghats. It inherited the name from the Netravali or Natural which is a significant tributary of the Zuari River and an utmost important source of freshwater in the given region.
Surrounded with deciduous woods and evergreen patches, the said sanctuary is known to boast its rich and diverse abode of the wilds and stunning range of fauna such as Panthers, Cobras, Giant Squirrels, Malabar Tree Toad and several others. It is also a well-known home to the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Grey Headed Bulbul, Great Pied Hornbill and there are species of butterflies such as Black Rajah, Gaudy Baron and Malabar Tree Nymph.
Location: Verlem, Goa 403704
Best time to visit: Best visited in the months from October to March
Also Read: Famous Waterfalls in Goa
5. Molem Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the most tranquil wildlife sanctuaries in Goa, Molem Wildlife Sanctuary is idyllic for all the wildlife admirers out there. For thrill seekers, this is the perfect place as Molem happens to be the core area of Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, housing varied wild species that are nothing less than beautiful. One can observe around 130 different species of birds residing in this sanctuary and that is exactly what makes Molem an escape for bird watchers.
Other wildlife species that one can find in this sanctuary includes Barking Deer, Bonnet Macaque, Leopard, Bengal Tiger, and more. This wildlife sanctuary gives one a chance to enjoy an adventurous jungle safari. Apart from that, there are endless possibilities for trekking here in Goa!
Location: Colem, Goa 403410
Best time to visit: November to March
Also Read: Trekking Places in Goa
6. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Sitting in the Western Ghats of the country, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is best known for its delicate ecosystem. Visited mostly by the students of Botany, the variety of trees and shrubs found in this sanctuary is simply mind-blowing. The dense and lush deciduous forest gives one a chance to witness the varied shades of green that is truly a treat.
Various wildlife species that inhabit this region are Flying Lizard, White-Bellied Woodpecker, Velvet-Fronted Nuthatch, Gloden Back Gliding Snake, and more. This forest cum sanctuary has a Nature Interpretation Centre that organizes numerous walks and treks through the thick jungles, getting one closer to mother nature.
Location: Canacona Taluka, Khotigao, Goa 403702
Best time to visit: October to March
Also Read: Famous Temples in Goa
7. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is sitting in the Sattari Taluka of Valpoi in Goa. This sanctuary offers some of the most beautiful and rich biodiversity for one to observe. Home to Royal Bengal Tigers, this is one of the sanctuaries that have been promoted as one of the few Project Tiger Reserves in the country. This is the spot where one can observe natural marvels at best.
From waterfalls to lush greens, there is plenty to see here in this destination. All the wildlife lovers can calm their souls by witnessing the exotic species of the sanctuary including Barking Deer, Asian Palm Civet, Sloth Bears, Indian Pangolin, Dhole, and more. This wildlife sanctuary has been awarded the title of an International Bird Area.
Location: Valpoi, Goa 403505
Best time to visit: October to March
Also Read: Best Museums in Goa
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the largest wildlife sanctuary in Goa?
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest wildlife protection area in Goa which covers an area of 240 sq. kms.
2. What species of animal kingdom can be found in Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary?
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is home to some of the rare and exotic creatures of the animal kingdom such as Indian gaur, Barking deer, Sambar deer, Asian palm civet, Wild boar, Bonnet macaque, Black Panther, Sloth bear, Leopard and Tiger.
3. Are there jungle lodges located inside the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary?
Yes, you can find accommodation facilities such as jungle cottages and dormitories inside Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary.
4. Where is the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary located?
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located on the island of Chorao on Mandovi River. It is only accessible via ferry which starts at Ribandar ferry wharf. From here, local boatmen take tourists on a dugout canoe.
5. In which wildlife sanctuary is the Dudhsagar Waterfall located?
Dudhsagar Waterfall is located within the boundaries of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.
Also Read:
