Sick of sand and sun? Escape into another world at the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa, a beautiful mangrove forest that provides an entirely different nature experience from Goa’s beaches. Located at the western tip of the island of Chorao in the Mandovi River estuary, and named after the renowned “Birdman of India,” the sanctuary offers an escape into a wonderful ecological space far removed from the rush of Goa’s coastline.
Although birdwatching may be the main focus of the sanctuary, it also provides a personal encounter with a rich, vibrant ecosystem in which the only sound is the chirping of apparently innumerable birds, the rustling of leaves, and the lapping of water. This is an ecotourism destination to partake in for thoughtful travel.
Fascinating Facts & History
The sanctuary is more than just a natural reserve; it is a historical site with ecological importance. It was created in honor of Dr. Salim Ali, India’s most important ornithologist, who established bird study in India for the world with his singular insights. The mangroves are ecological superstars; they serve as an important barrier that slows down coastal erosion and storm surges, protecting inland areas. It is also a nursery for many fish and crustaceans, a boon for local fishers. This ecotourism jewel shows the balance of protection and sustainable human-environmental interaction.
A Birder’s Paradise (Key Activities)
The main pastime in this area is undoubtedly birdwatching. The sanctuary has over 400 species of birds that are either resident birds or migratory birds. With your field glasses in hand, you can expect to see all sorts of birds, including eagles, kingfishers, egrets, cormorants, and many more. From October to March (the winter months) is especially spectacular as migratory birds from Siberia come to use these mangroves for refuge. And, as I said before, it is not just about the birds; the mangrove forests provide an ample variety of flora and fauna beyond birds, including mudskippers, fiddler crabs, and the occasional sighting of flying fox and jackal making every footstep on the trail full of potential surprises.
Beyond Birding: Experiential Activities
While a walk through the trails is enjoyable, the true charm of the sanctuary can be revealed when you join a boat safari, gliding effortlessly through the narrow and winding creeks in a local canoe. The experience of paddling on the water is something special, as it allows you to venture deep into the mangrove ecosystem and discover the tall and intricate root systems while getting very close to wildlife that may be out of sight on the trails.
The paddling experience is very soothing as you only hear the gentle lapping of water against the boat, and the soft, filtered light that comes through the green canopy directly above you can create a feeling of serenity. In fact, for many visitors, the boat ride is the highlight of their stay and transforms a casual visit into a full-fledged adventure.
Night Life & Alternative Experiences
It’s crucial to set expectations straight; the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is not a nightlife destination. The sanctuary closes just after sunset, sticking with the sanctuary’s purpose of preserving a natural habitat without artificial disturbance. Luckily, Chorao Island is situated in a great location; after your day at the Sanctuary, you are perfectly placed for a fun evening. In a short drive back toward Panaji, you will find yourself in the capital city of the state with the option of a lovely sunset cruise on the Mandovi River, multiple choices of great restaurants, and some pretty laid-back casinos. The sanctuary is a great and peaceful start to an evening of adventure!
Visitor Information & Pro Tips
For the best results from your visit, think ahead. The sanctuary is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM except on Thursday. The fee is cheap to enter. The best times to visit would be early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the activity of birds is at its peak and the weather is perfect. Wear comfortable shoes to walk in, dress in light colors (to blend in), and don’t forget to wear insect repellent. Bring binoculars and a camera. We would also recommend hiring a guide right at the entrance because having an expert’s eye will allow you to spot and identify wildlife that you would miss, and that will enhance your experience massively.
Location & How to Get There
Part of the charm of exploring the natural sanctuary is in actually getting there. The sanctuary is located on Chorao Island, which is just a hop from the capital of the state, Panaji. The drive from Panaji to the ferry point is a scenic 7 – 8 km. You will be on the main highway across the iconic Mandovi bridge, passing a small turn-off just before the bridge.
The road will continue toward the Ribandar ferry point – an awesome spot to catch a free ferry to Chorao Island. Once you’ve arrived on the island, you’ll take a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride from the ferry point, and you’re there! The locatio,n so close to the state capital, makes for a great half-day trip to incorporate nature into your Goan travel plans.