Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

There's talk about Mhadei becoming a Tiger Reserve. So, here's a tip: Head out to this lovely forest before regulations plug easier movement, relatively speaking. Just as you cross the check post for Mhadei WLS, a road branches off uphill towards Chidambar Temple and a watch tower. Meet the caretakers of the temple before heading out on that trail towards the watch tower and a waterfall. Sometimes, there is no guard at the forest gates to announce your entry. So informing temple folks insures that someone knows about your whereabouts in the locality. Tucked away in the northern corner of Goa along the border with Maharashtra and Karnataka, Mhadei offers similar chills and creepiness that you might have witnessed during trails and hikes in Netravali or Cotigao wildlife sanctuaries in the south. So, pick up a long enough wooden log that acts like an extension of your body. Usually, a big game won’t surprise. Rather, it is the reptiles that you should be careful about while walking. That said giant squirrels and hornbills make for easy sightings in early mornings. Enjoy nature to the fullest!

Here's another tip: Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary does not offer a guest house and if you want to explore this jungle over multiple visits, it is better to rent a hotel in the town of Ponda that is about 40 km southwest or better choose a guesthouse near Dudhsagar Waterfall. Either way, arrange your own transport to explore at your own pace.