Born free. Living free.

Tucked away in the dense, green blanket of nature in Ponda, Goa is Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. A small, yet impressively inhabited wildlife sanctuary that promises peace of mind, adventure, and education. You can walk around the trekking trail paths and be surprised by multifarious birds, one more colourful than the other. But sometimes walking and covering the entire 8 square kilometres can be tiring and exhausting. You can settle in at one of the watchtowers to scan and catch a glimpse of the motley crew of wild animals and nature’s other fascinating works of art. Lush forests, meandering streams, and diverse flora and fauna including deer, sloth bears, langurs, and other exotic birds, all wander around Bondla giving you a chance to witness them in their natural habitat.

But Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is not just a place for animals and birds to exercise their right to freedom. It is also an important conservation hub. It rehabilitates animals and extends a helping hand to care for and shelter injured and orphaned animals. Through its conservation efforts, Bondla plays a pivotal role in safeguarding Goa's native flora and fauna.

But do not mistake Bondla to be just a retreat into nature. It also offers educational experiences through interpretive trails, nature walks, and a botanical garden showcasing indigenous plant species. Whether seeking solace in the tranquillity of the wilderness or embarking on an adventure through its winding trails, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary promises an immersive journey into the heart of Goa's natural heritage.

Where the grass is green on every side

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the Ponda Taluka and stretches over 7.98 km. The area is thickened with deciduous forests with a few dapples of evergreen trees. The species of trees that reign supreme in this crowd is the State tree of Goa Terminalia Crenulata, fondly also known as Matti and Rosewood. Matti with its greyish-black bark is designed with longish fissures and bears fruits that are red when tender but gradually turn green. Rosewood, on the other hand, has a dark, rich wood that makes it a prize for ornamental and aromatic purposes. The trees stand like high-rises and create a showstopping visual of sun and shade. The green cover also nurtures the lives of smaller trees, animals, and insects that inhabit the sanctuary.

The rich vegetation will delight you with its striking gorgeousness. But on a grander scale, it also regulates the climate of the Konkan region and maintains the stability of the soil. The natives trust and depend on these trees for resources like timber, medicine, and food. While you are busy appreciating the green glory of this place, you will be interrupted by flowering trees. They seem like delightful blotches of reds, yellows, and oranges that break the monotony. But visual delight aside, these flowering plants also dispense nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and birds.

Enter jungle book

Where there’s the bounty of nature, can wildlife be far behind? As you wander around sifting through the greenness, you might encounter a host of animals that have made this sanctuary their forever home. The list includes Gaur, Goa’s state animal, Sambhar deer, panther, jungle cat, leopard, toddy cat, wild boar, porcupine, scaly anteater, and the Malabar giant squirrel. You will find watchtowers that have been thoughtfully installed for you to observe these animals in their natural spaces.

Timings

Tuesday to Sunday - 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Where the birds tweet more than you

If you like birdwatching, you are in for a treat at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. As you enter, the twittering musical orchestra will be enough to inform you about the richness of the species of birds that live in this sanctuary. The easiest to spot is the Ruby-throated yellow bulbul. Its golden feathers and ruby-red throat make you appreciate the artistic brilliance of Mother Nature. Apart from it, you will also find the common grey hornbill and golden-backed woodpecker. A few other rare species of birds do visit this sanctuary, and if you are an avid bird watcher we promise you the offering of this place will not disappoint you.

Get up close

The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary also has the little Bondla Zoo. Here you can catch a glimpse of animals like tigers, elephants, panthers, gaurs, sambars, deer, sloth bears, porcupines, wild boars, crocodiles, and reptiles. You can even stroll over to the Botanical Gardens. Gorgeously manicured lawns are laid out for the nature aficionados. You can spot quite a few rare and interesting species, which is why it’s a favourite haunt of researchers and botanists alike. There is even a Deer Safari Park where sightings of spotted deer, hog deer, barking deer, and mouse deer are common.

Beyond the beaten path

Once you are satiated with your trip to the sanctuary, you can enter the aromatic world of spices at Sahakari Spice Farm. Here you will be escorted on guided tours that will let you peek into Goa's rich agricultural heritage. Explore lush plantations and learn about the cultivation of cinnamon, cardamom, and other exotic spices. Some take a detour and experience the rustic charm of rural Goa at Gaonkars Nandanvan. It’s a conventional homestay that is adorned with fields and swaying palms. Indulge in authentic Goan cuisine, participate in cultural activities, and unwind in the serene ambience of this idyllic retreat. But if the heat is what you wish to beat, then Nagesh Water World, Goa's premier water park is the place to be. It has a thrilling array of slides, pools, and aquatic adventures for the whole family. Dive into excitement with adrenaline-pumping rides and relax in the tropical oasis of its lush surroundings.