Forest, birds and the Western Ghats — a different Goa an hour from the beach.
Goa protects a large part of its Western Ghats forest. The biggest reserve is Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park (home to Dudhsagar Falls and the Tambdi Surla temple); others are Cotigao and Netravali in the south, Mhadei in the north-east and the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, a mangrove reserve on Chorão island near Panaji.
Updated November 2026 · GoaPlace editors · facts checked against our own listingsOn the Karnataka border near Mollem, this is Goa's largest protected forest. Most visitors see it on the Dudhsagar jeep safari (Dudhsagar jeep safari) or on the way to Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple. Go with a licensed guide and stay on marked tracks.
| Name | Area | Best for | Best time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary | Chorão Island | Mangrove birding | Oct–Mar, just after sunrise |
| Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary | Canacona | Forest & treetop towers | Oct–Mar, early morning |
| Dandeli | Uttara Kannada | Rafting & jungle stays | Oct–May (rafting is seasonal) |
| Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary | Sanguem | Goa's wild side | Oct–Feb |
A mangrove sanctuary on Chorão island, reached by ferry from Ribandar. Walk the boardwalk or ask local boatmen about a slow canoe trip early in the morning for kingfishers, herons and a parade of mudskippers.
Dense forest in Goa's deep south, with trails and treetop watchtowers. Early mornings are best for birds and langurs. Go with a local guide and gentle expectations — the forest itself is the star.
Jungle country on the Kali river with white-water rafting in season, kayaking and forest lodges. Great for a two-night adventure break.
Forested hills in Goa's south-east, known for the curious 'bubbling lake' and several waterfalls reached on foot. Go with a local guide, especially in or after the monsoon when trails can be closed.
October to March for walks and birding. Many sanctuaries limit access in the monsoon.
Sightings are rare — think birds, butterflies, giant squirrels and gaur tracks rather than a safari park.
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