Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore Goa’s Natural

The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the richest areas in terms of biodiversity. It attracts a lot of tourists who are interested in wildlife. Stretched over a land mass of approximately 208 square kilometres. It is home to the Indian giant squirrel, Malabar pied hornbill, black panther other rare species. For all adventure enthusiasts nature lovers or those who wish to spend their time away from the city noise, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places that offers the best experience of wildlife and nature.

Quick Details

Where To Stay: The Diwa Club by Alila Diwa Goa, Goa Marriott Resort & Spa

Where To Eat: Magzika Beach Shack: Chinese and Indian food, Martins: Steakhouse and Indian food

Best Time To Visit: October to March, April to June

About Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

Snapshot of the water flowing through the canal amidst the surrounding of Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

Photo: John Knouse / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rare animals that you can not find easily in the rest of the county which include the Black Panther, the sloth bear, the giant squirrel, the mouse deer, the dhole the Asian wild dog and so on. The dense and pristine landscape of this wildlife sanctuary makes it one of the most idyllic places for the survival of rare flora and fauna in the western ghat region of India.

Suggested Read: Discover The Best Hill Stations Near Goa

Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Scenic view sfrom the hilltop of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary of the Western Ghats

Photo: Julia Volk / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Sattari taluk of the North Goan region, close to the border of Karnataka state. Located about 60 km from the state capital Panaji, the sanctuary is a part of the Western Ghats which is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site for its bio-diversity importance. It is connected by road and the nearest town is Valpoi which is approximately 20 km away from the Sanctuary.

How To Reach Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

Alluring sunset viiews from the national highway 748 on the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

Photo: JosephAssisFernandes / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary can be accessed by taking National Highway 748 or the MDR22 and State Highway 1. You can conveniently use rail transport or even hire a car, taxi, or bus to get to this place or even drive on your own. Or, one can go through railway transportation to get to Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary. By public transport, one has to catch a train from Panaji to Margao after which a vehicle can be hired to the sanctuary. The distance between both places is approximately 60 kilometres.

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Places To Visit In And Around Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

Here is the list of places that you can discover near the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary on your idyllic trip to Goa.

1. Chorla Ghat

Scenic views from the hills of Chorla Ghats in the monthe of summer which is the best time to visit

Photo: Vikram2784 / Wikimedia Commons

Chorla Ghat is situated at the borders of Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra and forms a part of the Western Sahyadris. It has the Twin Vajra waterfalls. It is a famous weekend destination in the Konkan area as the drive through the roads of Chorla is said to offer scenic view of the western ghats. This ghat has become a biker’s delight and a favourite on the list of those who love to take road trips. This hilly area was used to set up a Nature Conservation Facility for observation of biotic density. The place also presents families who come to view indigenous plants& animals including the restricted Barred Wolf Snake (Lycodon striatus).

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

2. Tambdi Surla Temple

Panoramic views of the Tambdi Surla Temple and its beautiful vicinity amdist the forest in Goa

Photo: Bhuppigraphy / Wikimedia Commons

Tambdi Surla, also known as the Mahadev Temple Tambdi Surla is a temple belonging to the 12th century and is a fine example of Shaivite Temple. This temple is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Goa and the whole structure of the temple was constructed from black basalt and thus has a high architectural value. The inner sanctum has a Shivalinga which is very royal-like and has also a statue of a headless bull. Besides that, the temple is located beside River Surla which makes the place even more beautiful and natural.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Timings: 7 AM – 5:30 PM

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3. Mollem National Park

Snapshot of the dense forest of the Mollem National Park in western ghat region in Goa

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Mollem National Park which is under the famous Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest national park in Goa that offers people a wonderful wildlife tour. Jeep safaris allow the tourists to penetrate deep into the forest reserve thus giving them a better experience of the active wildlife. Without any doubt, it is a place that any tourist interested in nature and wildlife cannot afford to miss. Visiting the park on a monsoon tour is also considered as a fine recreational activity.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM

4. Salaulim Dam

Majestic aerial views of the beautiful Salaulim Dam which is surrounded by the forest in Goa

Photo: Nvvchar / Wikimedia Commons

Salaulim Dam is one of the major sources of water which is famous for its geographical location and design. Located on the Salaulim River which is a branch of the Zuari River, this dam plays a significant role in enabling the supply of water especially to support irrigation and domestic use. One of its outstanding features is the semi-circular spillway that provides the beauty of a waterfall the moment the monsoon rains begin. Apart from being the primary source of water for the people of Goa, Salaulim Dam is also a place of attraction for tourists as it has lush green surroundings and gives beautiful views of the Western Ghats.

Best Time To Visit: July to November
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

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5. Sonsogor Peak

Snapshot of the campaigning site on the top of the hill of the beautiful trekk in Sonsogor Peak

Photo: Jovy Fullon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Sonsogor Peak is the highest peak of Goa that is situated at a height of about 1,167 meters from sea level. Sitting in the Western Ghats this great peak provides a magnificent view of the region including the forest, undulating hills and the ocean in the distance. Lush forests with steep rocky cliffs, Sonsogor is admired by hikers and tourists from around the world. It is possible to get acquainted with the unique flora and fauna of the region during the trekking to the peak.

Best Time To Visit: October to February
Timings: Early Morning

Other Factors To Consider

 Heard of elephants roaming in their natural habitat of the mhadei wildlife sanctuary

Photo: hbieser / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Prior to making any arrangement travellers are advised to consider the following factors to make their trip smooth and memorable on their adventure to Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

Tips For Travellers

  • Make sure to bring some sunblock, and sunglasses to prevent exposure to the sun.
  • To directly observe the birds around the sanctuary, always carry binoculars with you.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes. Do not neglect to check your shoes now and then to avoid scorpions and other insects.
  • Travel with anti-allergic mosquito and insect repellent creams to prevent allergic and insect stings.
  • When coming in winter, proper winter woollens and effective sun protection should be carried.
  • People should dress comfortably and in forest colours such as earth tones or muted greens like beiges.

Suggested Read: Discover Hidden Waterfalls In Goa

Are you ready to embark on your wilderness adventure? Check out Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary by booking your trip with TripXL and let them handle all the arrangements to make it smooth and enjoyable for you. Plan for one and be prepared to discover one of the most fascinating and least-known parts of Goa.

Cover Photo: NewtonCourt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Tigers are not commonly seen in the sanctuary. The sanctuary is more famous for the presence of Indian bison, deer and different species of birds. Nevertheless, it is a major site for biological diversity preservation.
Volunteer programs are available with some conservation organizations and local Non-Governmental Organizations. Such programs may entail activities such as reforestation, wildlife tracking, and public awareness creation.
Do not go off trek trails, never come close to the animals and never feed them, always take with you enough drinking water and some snacks, always obey your guide and/or park rangers.
Yes, adventure activities involve trekking and camping at Dudhsagar Waterfalls as well as night nature walks and wildlife trips to various wildlife sanctuaries such as Mahavir and Netravali.
Check out the local Goan restaurants in towns such as Ponda and Margao. Try out the dining experiences at the spice farms. They often serve traditional Goan food that's super fresh and made with local ingredients.

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