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WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES IN GOA
BONDLA SANCTUARY
 38
kms from Margao it is the smaller of the three wildlife sanctuaries
of Goa. It is the smaller of the three wildlife sanctuaries of Goa.
More than a sanctuary it is an ideal jungle resort, a major attraction
for school going children and nature lowers. Its mini zoos, sprawling
deer park in natural habitat, botanical and rose gardens attract
people throughout the year. Comfortable cottages are available here
for tourists. The Zoological Park and garrden at Bondla remain closed
on Thursdays.
DUDHSAGAR FALLS
To the southeast of Molem, within the area of the Bhagwan Mahavir
Wildlife Sanctuary, is the Dudhsagar Falls, one of the
highest waterfalls in the country. Although the 603 mts drop is
not vertical, the sight is spectacular. Near the top of the falls,
the railway line from Vasco to Londa crosses the mountainside,
with excellent views from the train. There also a couple of pools
that you can swim in, making Dudhsagar a great place for
a day full of fun and frolic.
By far, the easiest and cheapest way to approach the falls is by
train. There are two trains a day that stop at Dudhsagar Station
and it's possible to catch a morning train up and spend several
hours at the falls before taking an afternoon train back. The alternate
way of reaching the falls is only advisable between January and
May, when the level of the water in the rivers abates enough to
permit jeeps to approach the base of the falls.
COTIGAO WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
 The
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest sanctuary in
Goa, with an area of 86 sq kms, and it was proclaimed as a conservation
area in the year 1962. As with many other nature reserves, most
of the animals, by preference, remain hidden, and therefore the
park boasts of an impressive array of fauna. In order to see these
animals you will have to make an effort to stay here for at least
a night, spending either the late evening or early morning in the
treetop watch - tower or the observation post. For those who have
the time and patience, there are, among other species, The Indian
Bison or Gaur, Barking Deer, Sambar and Jackals.
If you come here on a day trip, there are pleasant walks through
the forest and the area contains some unspoilt Ghat scenery, but
don't expect to see much or even any - wildlife. There's only one
room at the Forest Rest House for which bookings must be
made in advance through the office of the Conservator of Forests
in Panaji.
The entrance to the park is 7 kms southeast of Chaudi on
the National Highway towards Karwar. As you head south
from Chaudi, the first entrance you come to (signposted 'Govt
of Goa Forest Check Post') allows access to the area generally.
The second, some 2 kms further on, which is prominently marked with
a large sign saying 'Protect Nature' is the entrance to the
wildlife sanctuary.
SALIM BIRD SANCTUARY
Spread over 1.78 sq kms, it is located at the western tip of the
island of Chorao along river Mandovi near Panaji. It is fully
covered with mangrove species. Varieties of local as well as migratory
birds frequently visit the area. This sanctuary can be visited anytime
of the year with the permission of the Chief Wildlife Warden,
Forest Department, Junta House, Panaji. The sanctuary is approachable
by walk after crossing over by ferry from Ribandar to Chorao. There
are some private guides who take tourists around in their canoes,
fitted with outboard motors.
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