Spread across just 1.8 sq. km, the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorao Island is the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa, yet one of the most enchanting. Named after India’s legendary ornithologist, Dr. Salim Ali, this sanctuary is a must-visit for bird lovers, nature photographers, and eco-tourists exploring Goa.
Hidden within the lush mangrove forests of the Mandovi River, the sanctuary is home to a spectacular variety of resident and migratory birds. From colorful kingfishers and egrets to rare species like the little bittern, pied avocet, and red knot, every visit here is a delight. You may also spot jackals, otters, flying foxes, and even crocodiles basking in the marshy waters.
The sanctuary is located on Chorao Island, about a 15-minute drive from Panaji. To get there, visitors take a short ferry ride from the Ribandar ferry wharf. Once you reach the island, local boatmen offer canoe rides through the narrow creeks, giving you a close-up experience of the Goa mangroves and the birds that thrive here. The Forest Department of Goa also operates boat tours during high tide.
The sanctuary is open all year round from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, the best time to visit is between October and March when the winter migratory birds arrive, including pintail ducks, coots, and sandpipers. Early mornings and evenings are the most rewarding hours for bird watching and photography.
A highlight of the sanctuary is its three-storeyed birdwatching tower, which offers breathtaking panoramic views at three levels – below canopy, canopy, and above canopy. This unique perspective allows visitors to observe bird life and mangrove ecosystems up close.
Expect to see a variety of birds such as herons, curlews, drongos, cormorants, kites, eagles, and the ever-colorful kingfishers. Apart from birds, the marshland is alive with fiddler crabs, mudskippers, crocodiles, and other fascinating species that form part of this fragile ecosystem.
Whether you are a seasoned ornithologist, a curious traveler, or someone simply seeking peace away from Goa’s beaches, the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary offers a unique and refreshing experience. The leisurely canoe rides through shaded mangrove canals, the chorus of birds, and the untouched natural beauty make it one of the most rewarding eco-tourism spots in Goa.
If you want to witness Goa beyond its beaches, make sure to add a visit to Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorao Island to your travel plans.
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