Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary : Siluated along the North-East border of Goa at Molem, about one and half hours' journey from Panaji (60 kms) along Panaji-Belgaum National Highway, the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary covers 240 sq.kms. of thick forest clad slopes of Western Ghats and its valleys and is the biggest of the three sanctuaries of Goa. The sanctuary is rich in wildlife. It is 2 paradise for bird watchers. Besides flora and fauna, there are many importani geological and historical features in this sanctuary. Dudhsagar falls, about an hour journey from Colem by train, is a feast for the eyes. The `Devil canyon' is another beautiful geological spot. The famous Tambdi Surla Temple is about 13 kms. frorr Molem. The Department of Tourism has built comfortable cottages and dormitorie for tourists.
Bondla Forest : 50 kms., 38 kms. from Margao. It is the smaller of the three wildlife sanctuaries of Goa. More than a sanctuary it is an ideal jungle resort, a major attraction for school going children and nature lovers. Its mini zoos, sprawling deer park in natural habitat, botanical and rose gardens attract people through the year. Comfortable cottages are available here for tourists.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary : The second largest of the three wildlife anctuaries in Goa, with an area of 105 sq.kms. is located at about 60 kms. from Panaji, in Canacona taluka in South Goa, nearly 3 kms. off the Panaji-Mangalore dational Highway No. 17. It is covered with dense forest and varied wildlife, avi auna and reptiles. The ancient Jeevottam Partagal Math , noted for vedic studies, les in the vicinity of the sanctuary.
Crocodile Trip : The thick mangrove jungle near the village of Cumbarjua is full of crocodiles that are often seen lazing around in the sun. In fact, the Cambarjua canal is the only place in Goa where crocodiles can be seen in all their wild glory. Though it must be mentioned that stray crocodiles can also be found in a few places like Tivim, Quepem and Chorao.
It is very interesting to note that the crocodiles found in Goa are actually freshwater crocodiles. They have amazingly adapted themselves to the salty waters of the canal, something that is very rare in India . So as the canoes and boats full of curious crocodile watchers make their way through the canal waters, these predators can actually be seen watching their visitors passing by. In fact, the crocodiles are quite used to human presence.
Crocodile watching in Goa is something you are sure to remember with great delight for a long time to come.
Vasco
