Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Cotigao has trees and plantations that range of from tropical deciduous to evergreen. So if you are going between October and March, expect to see a lot of foliage scattered on both sides of any trails or sanctuary roads. This foliage with shades of brown, yellow and green, overlooked by evergreen trees gives the landscape a mystic feel, while supporting camouflage for wildlife thriving on the ground.

The pattern of roads in Cotigao, right from its main entrance off the highway, is unique. Roads fork every few kilometers with trails heading south and east, while west and northbound roads take you to the nearby villages. Trails would invariably lead you to watering holes that are accompanied by watch towers. For the most popular watering hole, enter the forest, crossing Astagal boom barrier and park your vehicle when you notice the signage 'Treetop' to your right. From here, it is a 700 m hike inside the jungle.
The southernmost sanctuary of Goa lies on the Margao-Karwar highway, just a short distance ahead of Partagali Matha. Forest Department, Government of Goa, offer cottages that are supported by canteen. The eco-tourism complex at Hathipaul (Cotigao WLS) is excellent for kids, given that it sports a nature interpretation centre, a butterfly park, a cycling trail plus a rescue-enclosure for rescued animals and birds. Depending on your interest, you can explore this site anywhere between two to six hours or simply stay overnight in those jungle cottages.