Mumbai Orbit


Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

About:

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a well-known bird sanctuary located on the western tip of the Chorao Island along the Mandovi River in Goa, India. Named after the famous Indian ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, this sanctuary is home to a variety of resident and migratory birds, making it a popular spot for bird watchers and nature lovers.



The island landscape abounds with thick mangrove vegetation found sporadically along the banks of River Mandovi. The mangrove ecosystem facilitates breeding grounds for several varieties of fish and insects that are natural preys for birds. A watch-tower inside the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary serves the cause of enthusiastic bird-watchers.

Location info:
Address:Chorao Island, on River Mandovi,Goa,India.
District: North Goa.
Nearest City: Panaji
Best time to visit: October to March

Climate/Weather:
Summer (March to June): Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. Monsoon (July to September): The sanctuary receives heavy rainfall during this period, and the lush greenery makes it a beautiful time to visit. Winter (November to February): Cool and pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C and 28°C, making it the best time for bird watching and exploring the sanctuary..

History:
The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary was established in 1988 in honor of Dr. Salim Ali, who made significant contributions to ornithology in India. It is one of the few protected areas in Goa and plays a vital role in the conservation of the region's rich avian biodiversity. The sanctuary’s mangrove ecosystem is essential for the health of the local wildlife and coastal environment.

The sanctuary can be visited after seeking permission from the Chief Wild Life Warden, Forest Department, Panaji. Besides a rich diversity of exotic birds, one may catch a glimpse of wild animals like crocodiles, foxes, and jackals. The sanctuary is open throughout the year, though it is better to avoid it during the monsoons and summers when it can get really hot and humid.

Interesting things to do:

Mayem Lake:
This is flowing at the distance of 35 kms surrounded amidst rolling green hills and is an ideal picnic spot. Good accommodation facilities are available in Cottages. Boating is also available on the lake. People often visit the place to enjoy its picturesque beauty.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary:
10 kms North-east of the Usgao Tisk Village in north Goa, Bondla is home to black-faced langurs, Indian bison, jackal and wild boar besides other animals. It also has a tiny zoo. You can go for elephant rides in this park

Mahadei Wildlife Sanctuary:
Located in the Sattari Taluka of North Goa, the sanctuary boasts of 209 sq km of thick dense forests, abundant in plant and animal life. Mahadei Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the Indian Gaur, leopard, wild pig, jackal, sloth bear, bonnet macaques, sambhar, wild dog and mouse deer.

Interesting things to Visit:

Mangrove Ecosystem:
The sanctuary’s dense mangrove forests are fascinating to explore, offering insight into this critical coastal ecosystem.

Archaeological Museum:
Collection depicts the history of Goa before and during Portuguese period. The museum is in the former Convent of St. Francis of Assi, between the Church of St. Francis and Se Cathedral.

Aguada Fort:
This is located at 18 kms away from the Panaji. The Portuguese built this fort in 1609-1612. The main purpose of this was to command the entry into the river Mandovi, in order to protect Old Goa from potential enemy attacks. A spring within the fort once provided water supply to the ships that called there. A lighthouse is situated nearby to this fort.

Dr. Salim Ali Memorial:
A memorial in honor of Dr. Salim Ali, paying tribute to his contributions to ornithology.

Mobile range info:
Mobile network coverage is available in the area, but it may be spotty in some parts of the sanctuary, especially within the dense mangrove forests.

How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Karmali, located about 15 km from the sanctuary.
Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Goa International Airport (Dabolim), about 30 km away from the sanctuary.
Road Transport: From Panaji, visitors can take a ferry from Ribandar to Chorao Island, which is a short 10-minute ride. Once on the island, the sanctuary is accessible by local transport or by walking.

Nearest Visiting places:
1.Anjuna
2.Baga
3.Colva
4.Candolim
5.Benavali
6.Calangute
7.Cavelossim
8.Palolem
9.Bogmalo
10.Varca
11.Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
12.Chapora Fort
13.Cabo Fort
14.Vagator

Nearest Petrol Pump:
HP Petrol Pump, Ribandar: Located near the Ribandar ferry point, about 5 km from the sanctuary.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
1.Panjim Inn - Panjim Peoples.
2.Hotel Orion.
3.Sun N Sand Goa.

Things to carry:
Binoculars for bird watching and observing wildlife in the sanctuary. Camera to capture the beauty of the birds and the mangrove ecosystem. Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the sanctuary’s trails. Water bottles and snacks as amenities inside the sanctuary are limited. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun during outdoor activities.

Tips & Suggestions:
The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the winter months (November to February), when the weather is pleasant, and migratory birds are present. It’s advisable to take a guided boat tour to explore the sanctuary more effectively and learn about the flora and fauna. Carry mosquito repellent, as the mangrove area can have a lot of insects, especially during the monsoon season. Make sure to respect the natural environment by not littering or disturbing the wildlife.

Help Line/Phone Number:
Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:Panaji is well equpped with Govt. and Pvt. hospitals