Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa Travel Guide

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Explore Goa's avian paradise: A serene mangrove ecosystem teeming with diverse birdlife and natural beauty on Chorao Island.

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Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, named after the renowned Indian ornithologist, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Located on Goa's Chorao Island, this estuarine mangrove ecosystem is home to a diverse array of local and migratory bird species, as well as other fascinating wildlife.

A brief summary to Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

GV7C+657, Madel, Raybandar, Ilhas, Goa, 403006, IN
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Monday 6 am-6 pm
Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
Thursday 6 am-6 pm
Friday 6 am-6 pm
Saturday 6 am-6 pm
Sunday 6 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best birdwatching opportunities.
Hire a boat for a unique perspective of the mangrove ecosystem and its diverse birdlife.
Bring binoculars to enhance your birdwatching experience.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for a humid climate.
Maintain silence to avoid disturbing the birds and other wildlife.

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Explore Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, take a bus from Panaji to the Ribandar ferry wharf. The bus ride is approximately 10-15 minutes and costs around ₹10. From the Ribandar ferry wharf, take the free ferry to Chorao Island. The ferry ride is about 20 minutes. The sanctuary entrance is a short walk from the ferry drop-off point.
Taxi/Ride-share

From Panaji, hire a taxi or ride-share to the Ribandar ferry wharf. The ride is approximately 10-15 minutes and costs around ₹50-₹100. From the Ribandar ferry wharf, take the free ferry to Chorao Island. The ferry ride is about 20 minutes. The sanctuary entrance is a short walk from the ferry drop-off point.
Walking

If you are in Panjim, you can walk across the bridge over the Mandovi River and take a bus to Ribandar. From Ribandar ferry wharf, take the free ferry to Chorao Island. The ferry ride is about 20 minutes. The sanctuary entrance is a short walk from the ferry drop-off point.

Discover more about Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, situated on the western tip of Chorao Island along the Mandovi River in Goa, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Named after the eminent Indian ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, the sanctuary spans 178 hectares (440 acres) and is renowned for its rich estuarine mangrove habitat. Declared a reserved area in 1988, it is Goa's only bird sanctuary.The sanctuary's diverse flora includes 14 species of mangrove vegetation, providing a fertile environment for various fish, insects, and birds. Visitors can explore the sanctuary via a paved walkway that meanders through the mangroves. Boat tours are also available, offering a unique perspective of the ecosystem and its inhabitants. Keep an eye out for a variety of bird species, including kingfishers, egrets, herons, cormorants, kites, eagles, woodpeckers, sandpipers, curlews, drongos, and mynahs. Lucky visitors may also spot rarer species such as the purple heron, striated heron, black bittern, and pied avocet.Beyond birds, the sanctuary is home to other fascinating creatures, including mudskippers, fiddler crabs, crocodiles, otters, flying foxes, and jackals. The sanctuary also has a Nature Research Centre, providing further insights into the area's unique ecosystem. The best time to visit is between October and March, when migratory birds flock to the sanctuary. Early morning visits (6 am to 8 am) or late afternoon visits are ideal for spotting the most birds.