Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary — Attraction in Goa

Thank you Dr Salim Ali The good thing bout good places is that it offers you a lot while travelling and yet it leaves many things for you to see,so that you want to come back to that place again and again. One such place on my recent sojourn to Goa was Dr Salim Ali's bird sanctuary at chora, in Goa. The only way to reach there is through a barge which took is across a river. With fog and mist hanging in the air and visibility down to few metres,it looked very spooky akin to the boat ride in one of the scenes of kingkong ,the skull island. We reached there and got a little late than our anticipated time . Just one more family was on the ticket counter,a local goan family. I could perceive the urgency of getting inside the sanctuary amongst them also. Initial part of the sanctuary was a trail amongst the mangrooves . As that trail came to an end we were directed to board a small steamer,which was supposed to show us around the place. We had mangrooves all around us and they appeared to be having quite some diversity amongst them,14 to be precise as told by the guide later. it was a place as tranquil and serene as one can dream of.Except for the noise of engine and smell of diesel in air. there was nothing else except our mind to hold us back. and once the mind was relaxed enough ,it started feeling meditatively peaceful.Though it was foggy day( a rare and not so good phenomena for bird watching) still we were lucky enough to have hawk like eyes of our guide to show us few aviary friends on our radar.there were an array of poles all around the island,meant to hold the fishing net,catching up fish on low tides.May be because of this or perhaps otherwise,we could see many birds perched atop them. Notably western reef egret and Kingfishers. Hopping along the mangroves ,we could see few sand pipers and terns. One particular stork became friendly with our boat and showcased it's graceful flight and take off .neither was it driven away by the sounds of engine. Then there were few sightings of hawk and kite,one particular with couple with a nest. Our guides recount of crocodile sighting last day by him made the place look even more adventurous,making us strain our eyes in between mangroves for it's sighting. We alighted the steamer a little early to get a feel of nature trail.it is an awesome experience to nature walk and more so amongst mangroves.with all the kind of roots defying gravity and creating eerie formations amongst themselves ,it was a sight to behold. On closer look the apparent placid mangroves turn into a hub of activity. Crabs,samll fishes, frogs and many other small animals were having active day in office. An incessant activity of these animal was making a live front.certain fossilized conches and seashells were scattered ,which we gladly picked up as souvenirs, along with memories deeply etched in our travelling...

Nestled within the serene Chorao Islands of Goa, the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a unique destination for those who revel in the unadulterated beauty of nature. Operated by the local forest department, this sanctuary offers an exceptional opportunity to immerse oneself in the untouched wilderness.

Upon arrival, you'll find clearly displayed ticket prices, with child admission at an affordable Rs. 30 and adults at Rs. 100. Don't forget to obtain a camera ticket if you plan to capture the sanctuary's beauty; it's a must for photography enthusiasts.

Parking facilities are basic, with no dedicated lot, but you can conveniently park alongside the sanctuary's entrance on the main road. Once inside, you'll notice the absence of shops and stalls. It's advisable to bring your own water bottle and any necessary snacks, as the focus here is on preserving the natural environment.

The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is as natural as it gets. Proper clothing and comfortable shoes are a must, as the sanctuary is home to various insects, reptiles, snakes, and, occasionally, even crocodiles. Staying on designated paths and within authorized areas is crucial for your safety and for preserving the ecosystem.

Respecting nature and maintaining a litter-free environment is a shared responsibility. As you explore the sanctuary, be mindful of your surroundings and ensure that you leave with all your waste. This effort is essential to keep the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary a pristine haven for both wildlife and visitors.

The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a tranquil escape into the natural world, offering a rare opportunity to witness diverse bird species and wildlife in their native habitat. For nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat, a visit to this sanctuary comes highly recommended. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Chorao Islands and depart with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the...

The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, nestled on the picturesque Chorao Island in Goa, India, is a natural haven that beckons both avian enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Named in honor of the legendary Indian ornithologist, Dr. Salim Ali, this sanctuary is a vital refuge for diverse bird species, establishing itself as a significant hub for ornithological exploration.

Spread across the western tip of Chorao Island, the sanctuary encompasses a rich mosaic of mangrove forests and tidal water bodies. The interplay of these ecosystems provides a unique habitat that attracts a plethora of migratory and resident birds. Ornithologists and birdwatchers flock to this tranquil haven to witness the vibrant avian life.

The mangroves, acting as a natural buffer along the Mandovi River, not only shelter numerous bird species but also contribute to the overall biodiversity of the region. Visitors can traverse the sanctuary through meandering water channels, providing an immersive experience in the heart of nature.

As the gentle rustle of leaves accompanies the melodic calls of birds, the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary stands as a testament to the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of preserving such sanctuaries for the conservation of avian diversity. It is a serene retreat where the symphony of nature unfolds, captivating all who venture into its...