Wild Life Sanctuaries:

Goa is rich with thick forests and a variety of wild life. The popular sanctuaries are  Mollem, Bondla, Cotigao, Chorao which are located amidst lust greenery. 

Bhavan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary :
Situated along the North-East border of Goa at Molem, about one and half hours' journey from Panjim along Panjim- Belgaum National Highway, the Bhagvan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary covers about 240 sq km 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 a paradise for bird watchers.  Besides flora and fauna there are many important geological and historical features in this sanctuary.  Dudhsagar falls, about an hour's journey from Colem by train, is a feast for the eyes.  "Devil's Canyon" is another beautiful geological spot.  The famous Tambdi Surla temple is about 13 km from Molem.  

Bondla Forest :  
(55 km) It is one of the three wildlife sanctuaries of Goa.  More than a sanctuary, it is an ideal jungle resort and a major attraction for school going children and nature lovers.  Its mini zoos, sprawling deer park in natural habitat, botanical and rose garden attract people throughout the year.  The Zoological Park and gardens at Bondla remain closed on Thursday.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary :  
The second largest of the three wildlife sanctuaries in Goa, with an area of 105 sq km is located at about 60 km from Panjim, in Canacona Taluka in South Goa, nearly 3 km off the Panjim-Mangalore National Highway No. 17.  It is covered with dense forest and varied wildlife, Avifauna and reptiles.  The ancient Jeevottam Partagal Math, noted for Vedic studies, lies in the vicinity of the sanctuary. 

Salim Bird Sanctuary :
Spread over 1.78 sq kms, it is located at the western tip of the island of Chorao along river Mandovi near Panaji. It is fully covered with mangrove species. Varieties of local as well as migratory birds frequently visit the area. This sanctuary can be visited anytime of the year with the permission of the Chief Wildlife Warden, Forest Department, Junta House, Panaji.