Exploring wild side of Goa: 5 wildlife sanctuaries that are a treat to the senses

Goa is not all about beaches and wild parties. There's more to Goa than that. Goa has much more to provide. There exists a side of Goa that remains largely untapped, and you can be the one to take the 'road not taken' by exploring a greener aspect of Goa. In Goa, one can visit the wildlife sanctuaries that are rich in biodiversity and natural beauty. This location is not just for party lovers; all those people seeking tranquility or a peaceful escape can also visit Goa.

Let’s look at some of the wildlife sanctuaries in Goa that should definitely be on your list:

This is the smallest wildlife sanctuary located in Goa but is easily accessible. This sanctuary is situated 50 km from Panaji in Goa. This site offers refuge to a number of animals like sambars, wild boars, leopards, and Indian bison. This site has a small zoo and deer safari park too, so it becomes a must visit destination for children. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is also a conservation center since it rehabilitates animals and gives a helping hand in taking care of and providing shelter to injured and orphaned animals. This sanctuary has scenic nature trails and botanical gardens. The best time to visit this sanctuary is during the months of November and February.

This wildlife sanctuary is found in the Mollem area of South Goa and also happens to be the state's largest wildlife sanctuary. This refuge is close to the border of Goa and Karnataka and falls within the Western Ghats as well. Tourists will be able to catch a glimpse of leopards, deer, black panthers, and sloth bears among others, as well as reptiles and innumerable birds. This place is also home to the highest waterfall of India the Dudhsagar Falls, which is found within the refuge and is the ideal mix of nature and wildlife. The ideal time to visit this sanctuary is from October to March when the forest is green and the climate is also relatively pleasant.

This wildlife sanctuary is found in South Goa in the region of Canacona, Cotigao. This destination is renowned for its thick green forest and the peacefulness which it provides. This refuge is predominantly renowned due to tall trees here reaching a height of 30 meters and the treetop observatory tower providing a bird's eye view of the entire landscape. Flying squirrels, mouse deer, slender loris, and Indian pangolins are some of the animals that could be seen here. There is a great variety of butterflies here. It is possible to observe some of the most gorgeous species of butterflies here. The ideal time to go here is October to February when the wildlife is very much active and the climate is also nice.

Netravali Sanctuary lies in South Goa and is a lesser-visited wildlife sanctuary compared to the other wildlife sanctuaries of the state. Netravali Sanctuary is an extension of the uninterrupted row of forest with the Cotigao Sanctuary. Though both of them lie on the same stretch of forest, this one's atmosphere is more peaceful. This is where the eco-tourists and adventure enthusiasts who love trekking can stay and even observe wildlife. There are animals such as the great pied hornbill, giant squirrel, barking deer, and Indian civet found here. The peak time to visit this place, is after monsoon from October to March when the forest is full of life and color.

This sanctuary is found in the northern region of Goa close to Valpoi, Mhadei. This is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. This is also referred to as a biodiversity area where it harbors tigers, black panthers, barking deer, and various kinds of monkeys. The most interesting feature of this sanctuary is its avifauna, featuring the grand Malabar grey hornbill and the Nilgiri wood pigeon. This destination serves a significant role in safeguarding Goa's rivers and water bodies. The ideal time to visit here is either the monsoon season between June and September or the months of October and March when wildlife sightings can be done with ease.