Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Goa
Major Attractions: Gaur, Sambar
Best time to Visit: October to March
About Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
While on a trip to the beach capital of India, Goa, a good option would be to top your holiday with a visit to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Situated at an altitude of 3000 feet in the lush western ghats, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary spreads over an area of just 8 sq. km, making it the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa. A perfect place for people looking to spend a quiet time in the lap of mother nature, Bondla wildlife sanctuary with its lush forests, meandering rivers, fenced deer park, joyful elephant rides, and a mini zoo is the
ideal place for a perfect family vacation.
The sprawling jungles of Bondla are home to a variety of animals including the giant red Malabar squirrel, gaur, sambar, langur, wild boar, and jackals. An ancient statue of goddess Gajalaxmi is another major attraction that attracts tourists from all corners of the state. People with a bit of spare time on their hands can also check out the beautiful collection of rare artifacts at the Nature Education Centre.
Wildlife Attractions at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary consists of a number of well-maintained gardens and lawns which act as favorite hangout spots for visitors. The vegetation is mainly deciduous forests along with a few stretches of semi-evergreen forests. A mini zoo housed inside the sanctuary has various animals including the wild boar, gaur, jackals, peacocks, toddy cat, deer, etc.
Seen along the water bodies are a number of species of crocodiles basking in the sun. Bondla wildlife sanctuary also houses a variety of colorful birds which often paint the sky in a colorful hue and reverberate the surroundings with their chirps. Elephant rides offered by the forest department are a popular activity amongst both children and adults.
Stay At
Although not many staying options are located close to the sanctuary, the forest department offers 8 cottages and 2 dormitories that provide excellent accommodation options at reasonable prices. These can be booked through the office of the main range, the officer located at Panaji.
Getting There
By Air: Dabolim Airport, situated 50 km from Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is the nearest air connection. The onwards journey from Dabolim to Bondla can be covered on a taxi which can be easily hired from various places in Panaji.
By Rail: Margao is the nearest railhead, located 36 km from Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Taxis and buses are the available means of transport to cover the distance between Margao and Bondla.
By Road: Bondla wildlife sanctuary is located in the Ponda taluka of central Goa at a distance of 20 km from Mollem and 52 km from Panaji. The region is well connected with other cities in the state through a network of well-built roads.
Important Information for Visitors
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Entry fee to Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is Rs. 5 for adults and Rs. 2 for children.
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The sanctuary remains open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day. Garden and zoo remain closed every Thursday.
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Private vehicles are allowed inside the sanctuary at a nominal fee.
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Elephant ride costs Rs. 80 per elephant which can accommodate 4 persons at a time.
