Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary — Attraction in Goa

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular wildlife reserve located in the Ponda taluka of Goa, India. It's the smallest wildlife sanctuary in the state but is known for its rich biodiversity, lush greenery, and efforts towards conservation and education.

Key Features of Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary:

Biodiversity: Despite its relatively small size (around 8 square kilometers), Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary houses various species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.

Animal Species: You can find animals like Indian bison, sambar deer, wild boars, Indian peafowls, various species of monkeys, and more. The sanctuary's mini-zoo also houses animals like sloth bears, Indian bisons, and deer that have been rescued or rehabilitated.

Avian Diversity: Birdwatchers will find joy in spotting a variety of bird species, including Malabar pied hornbills, Indian black woodpeckers, and various species of parrots, kingfishers, and mynas.

Botanical Garden: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is not only about animals; it also has a well-maintained botanical garden showcasing a wide array of plant species, including medicinal plants and ornamental trees.

Nature Interpretation Center: The sanctuary features a Nature Interpretation Center that offers information about the local ecology, species, and the efforts taken for conservation. It's an educational hub for visitors to learn about Goa's natural heritage.

Nature Trails: The sanctuary offers well-marked nature trails, allowing visitors to explore the dense forest cover and enjoy the natural beauty. The trails lead to vantage points where you can appreciate the serene surroundings.

Conservation Efforts: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary plays a crucial role in the conservation of the region's flora and fauna. It's also involved in breeding programs for various endangered species.

Education and Awareness: The sanctuary emphasizes education and awareness, especially among school students, to foster a sense of responsibility towards the environment and wildlife.

Visiting Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary can be a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in exploring Goa's wild side. The sanctuary's compact size makes it easily accessible, and the presence of amenities like the mini-zoo and botanical garden ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy. Just remember to follow the rules and guidelines set by the sanctuary authorities to help preserve this...

Bondla wildlife sanctuary is an ideal place to spend some leisure and fun time (2-4 hours) with you family and friends. Children's will just love this place. The drive about an hour from Margoa (Madgoan) is great. Don't just get distracted by your mobile, close it and enjoy the unparalleled beauty of this ride, mostly forest. Bondla is just so amazing, a perfect destination to explore for all the wildlife lovers. IMP - 1. You have to make this as a picnic trip by packing your food which can be had seated in the garden under a shady tree. 2. There is a very simple Govt forest dept restaurant, near (500 mtr) the entrance where you buy the tickets. When I say simple, it really means simple, like a thali of two chappati, little quantity of dal, 1 veg sabji, salad and rice (all non chilly and non spicy) with a dash of pickle @ Rs 80 per plate. You can also get a fish and a chicken plate. There is a toilet/wash room facility at the Govt. forest dept. restaurant which is clean, but you will have to ask for direction. 3. Put on your shoes, the ground is rough. 4. If you plan to spend more time or you have a big group, take games like badminton, flying saucer, ring etc, you get big, well spread lawns to play. 5. There is toilet/wash room facility, separately for men/women in the park which is reasonably clean. 6. There is a small canteen inside the park where you get chai(tea), dry snack like vada pav (it was cold), cold drink, wafers etc. 7. Pls check timing and days on which the sanctuary is closed. Don't go too late, you will miss the fun.

If you have plans to stay over night, for accommodation, the Forest Department offers 8 double-bedded cottages and 2 dormitories which you have to book through the Bondla Range Forest Office or the main Forest Office in Panaji.

I went to this place in mid Jan 2015 @ 12 noon. We got to see a lot of animals who were quite active, I guess it was their lunch time and they were looking out for the forest keeper who gets their lunch around...

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, tucked in the lush Western Ghats of North Goa, is a total gem for nature lovers and adventure junkies! 🌿 Spanning 8 sq km in the Ponda taluka, it’s the smallest sanctuary in Goa but packs a punch with its dense forests, rolling hills, and vibrant wildlife. Established in 1969, it’s a haven for spotted deer, sambar, wild boars, and even elusive leopards if you’re super lucky. A birdwatcher with binoculars was geeking out, saying, “Spotted a Malabar grey hornbill today—felt like I won the lottery!” 🦜 The sanctuary’s also got a mini zoo, botanical garden, and deer safari that make it a hit with families.

The vibe here is chill yet thrilling—perfect for a day trip. You can hop on a jeep safari (₹500 for 4 people) to spot animals or stroll through the nature trails lined with rosewood and teak trees. A kid on the deer safari shouted, “Mom, that deer’s posing for us!” 🦌 The zoo’s got pythons, sloth bears, and crocodiles, but a guy nearby grumbled, “Cages look a bit cramped, could be better.” The botanical garden’s a green escape with a lotus pond—great for pics. A couple snapping selfies said, “This place is straight outta a nature documentary!” 📸

Open from 9 AM to 5 PM, entry’s ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for kids, and ₹100 for cameras. It’s 55 km from Panaji—grab a cab (₹1500) or bus to Ponda (₹60), then an auto. Downsides? Food options are limited, so pack snacks, and a lady noted, “Wish there were more signboards for trails!” 😕 November to March is prime time; monsoons make it lush but slippery. You can also check out nearby Dudhsagar Falls or Tambdi Surla Temple. This is the real deal—wild vibes, green escape, and Goa’s jungle heart! Let’s...