Location: Ponda Taluka, Goa
Heading to Goa this season? Then don’t forget to set foot in the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary for a close rendezvous with your favorite animals. The smallest yet most popular sanctuary in Goa, it is located in Ponda Taluka in the northeastern part of the city. Contained in a very small area of just 8 km, the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is covered with moist deciduous forest and evergreen vegetation patches. This little sanctuary proudly houses a Mini Zoo, Rose Garden, Deer Safari Park, Botanical Gardens, Nature Education Centre and Eco-Tourism Cottages within its premises.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a picturesque location with a beautiful landscape and lush greenery all around. This place provides a very soothing natural environment to its inhabitants. The sanctuary provides habitat to a large number of wild animals and a variety of bird species. Some of the occupants here are panthers, Asiatic lions, a variety of deer, crocodiles, snakes, wild cats, etc. Birds like Kingfishers, Hornbills, Yellow Bulbul, Woodpeckers, etc., are also sighted here. The Nature Education Centre, exclusively set up here, imparts useful knowledge about the wildlife to its visitors by showcasing a number of exhibits, books and videos.
The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is much popular among school children and animal lovers, and a favorite destination for the schools and families. The impressive collection of a variety of plants also proves beneficial for researchers and the students of Botany. Being an Eco-tourism destination, it is looked upon greatly by the state. One can even choose to stay at the sanctuary, as comfortable accommodation is provided by the forest department. The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary provides an exquisite experience to its visitors, especially during early mornings and evenings.
Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Thursdays)
Entry Fee: Rs. 5 (adults); Rs. 2 (children)
Parking charges: Rs. 10 for bikes; Rs. 50 for cars
Camera charges: Rs. 25
Video camera: Rs.100
Accommodation: Cottages – Rs. 1,000 per day; dormitories – Rs. 600 per head.
