Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is located in North Goa. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary was built in 1999. It is a famous mountain area with lots of greenery Forests and animals. The government of Goa opened this sanctuary to protect a few animals, mostly tigers, and the colorful forests around the Mhadei River.

The sanctuary covers about 208 square kilometers. It is one of the largest protected areas in Goa. In this place, you can find many types of animals here. Like, Bengal tiger (sometimes seen), Black panther, Sloth bear, Indian leopard, indian giant squirrel, Sambar deer, Mouse deer, Indian gaur (bison), Dhole (wild dog), Wild boar, Over 255 types of birds, like the Malabar pied hornbill and long-billed vulture.

One of the most loved trekking destinations in North Goa is the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary. Trekking offers a great opportunity to explore the lush green forests, beautiful views, and colorful wildlife of this environmentally rich area in North Goa.

This place is best for those people who enjoy outdoor activities, trekking, and adventure because it has many animals, birds, forests, rivers, and waterfalls.

Timings:

1. Sanctuary hours are generally 8:00am to 5:00pm.
2. The recommended time for wildlife sightings and activities is between 10:00am and 2:00pm.

Entry Fees:

1. Entry is free! There are currently no charges for locals, Indian tourists, or foreigners. Use of cameras and other equipment for photography is also free.

Why it is famous:

1. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Western Ghats, making it an ecologically important and recognized natural hotspot.
2. It maintains a rich variety of wildlife, including rare and endangered animals such as the Bengal tiger, black panther, Indian leopard, sloth bear, Indian gaur, and over 255 types of birds. This makes it a prime location for wildlife lovers and bird watchers.
3. The sanctuary offers thrilling activities like trekking, guided wildlife tours, and white-water rafting on the Mhadei River, attracting adventure travelers.
4. It is also environmentally and historically important, with local communities having lived in the area and maintained balance with nature.

Activities to do:

1. Trekking and Hiking: The sanctuary offers some of the best trekking paths in Goa. You can hike through lush green forests, rolling hills, and along the beautiful Mhadei River.
2. Bird Watching: With over 255 bird types, including hornbills and vultures, the sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers. Early mornings are ideal for spotting vibrant and rare birds.
3. White Water Rafting: The Mhadei River is famous for white water rafting during the monsoon season (typically July to September).
4. Wildlife Tours: Guided wildlife tours allow you to explore the sanctuary safely while spotting animals such as Bengal tigers, black panthers, Indian gaurs, sloth bears, and more.
5. Adventure Sports: Beyond rafting, there are river-crossing adventures and rappelling down rock faces for adventurers.

Nearby Attractions:

1. Dudhsagar Waterfalls
2. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Mahadev Temple (Tambdi Surla)
4. Chorla Ghat
5. Harvalem Waterfalls
6. Candolim Beach
7. Basilica of Bom Jesus
8. Vazra Sakla Falls & Virdi Falls