Bondla Wildlife Sancuary: The Ultimate Day Trip Guide

You are in Goa and have heard so much about the wildlife and forests there, but don’t want to do a 2 plus hour drive to one of the sanctuaries. Fret not, as Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, though the smallest one, is an hour’s drive away from most tourist spots in North Goa.

This place is more like a zoo in a wildlife sanctuary. Located in Ponda, it is ideal for a day trip, though one can stay overnight too. It is a great place to visit throughout the year, due to the vast availability of flora and fauna.

Additionally, it has a deer safari park, a zoo, a botanical garden and loads of jungle trails to indulge in some bird-watching or animal sightings. They even have watchtowers at strategic locations, as well as the Nature Interpretation Centre & Rehabilitation Centre for Animals.

Of course, the chances of sighting animals are higher in the months of summer, but even the October to March months offer great trips. The admission fee is a minimal INR 5 for adults and it is open every day except Mondays from 9 AM to 5 PM. They do charge extra for cameras or any other recording devices.

Best Time To Visit:

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, with its diverse sights and activities, is a popular destination year-round. While most tourists, especially eco-enthusiasts, visit during the peak season from October to March, the monsoon season is also considered an excellent time to explore, as the rains amplify the sanctuary's natural beauty.

By Air: The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport (approximately 50 km away). You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to the sanctuary.

By Rail: The closest railway stations are Margao (32 km) and Kulem (20 km). Taxis and buses are available from these stations to the sanctuary.

By Road: Bondla is well-connected by road. It is about 38 km from Panaji. You can drive your own vehicle, hire a taxi, or take a local bus from nearby towns.

If you have wondered what is Goa’s state tree and thought it is the coconut tree, then a visit to this sanctuary will show you otherwise. You will sight the Terminalia Crenulata (or locally called Matti tree) here a lot, which also happens to be the state tree. You will also find lots of gaurs here, which happen to be the state’s animal, besides panthers, leopards, wild boars and of course the ruby throated yellow bulbul, which again, as you might have guessed, is the state bird. The park rangers here have a wealth of information and are the most helpful lot on your visits there.

If you're planning a trip to Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, early morning is the perfect time to visit, as it’s when you’re most likely to spot wildlife. While you're there, check out the mini-zoo, deer park, and botanical gardens. Make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, water bottles, binoculars for birdwatching, some sun protection like a hat or sunscreen, and maybe a camera if you want to capture the beautiful surroundings.

If you’re thinking of staying overnight, don’t forget to book the forest cottages in advance through the Goa Forest Department. Also, a heads-up—carry some cash with you because there’s little to no network for online payments. If you plan to take your two-wheeler inside, the entrance fee for two people is  INR 100.

Since the sanctuary is quite far from main roads and petrol pumps, it’s a good idea to make sure your vehicle is in good condition and your fuel tank is at least half full so you can make it back easily. The good news? The roads leading to the sanctuary are well-maintained, though they’re narrow, so a two-wheeler is a great choice for getting around. 

You can also stop and visit the Mystic Meadows Butterfly Sanctuary on your way there.

Beyond beaches and parties, here are some other wildlife sanctuaries in and around Goa that you can check out!