Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Day Trip: Deer Safaris, Nature Trails And Hidden Gems

Have a day in hand and curious about checking out Goa's flora and fauna? Get ready to make a trip to Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary – an amazing spot in Goa, covering just 7.98 km²!  The Sanctuary has a small zoo, a deer safari park, botanical gardens, and an epic Eco-tourism Complex. It might be the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa, but it's the king of the hill for kids, families, and eco-tourists. Located in Ponda, this spot makes for a perfect day trip. So, here's everything you need to know about Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary.

Getting to Bondla Sanctuary is a breeze! Whether you're jetting in from Mopa or Dabolim airports, grab a prepaid taxi or roll with Goa Miles. And if you're already soaking up the Goan vibes then it's only 50 km from Panjim and 38 km from Margao. So, you can jump on a tourist bus from either city!

Bondla is a total hotspot all year round! The place is buzzing with nature-loving folks from October to March. But guess what? Monsoon season is a hidden gem—those life-giving rains amp up the whole scenery, making it a must-visit time too. Rain or shine, this place is always full of beauty and adventures!

The doors at Bondla Wildlife Park open every day, except Mondays, from 9 AM to 5 PM, ensuring you soak up all the daylight action. It's a steal for explorers – just Rs 5 for adults and a mere Rs 2 for the kiddos. Parking your two-wheeler is barely Rs 10, four-wheeler is Rs 50. Camera buffs, it's Rs 25 for still cams and Rs 100 for video. 

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary has a plethora of things to do. The Bondla Zoo is everyone's favourite pitstop – a mini haven within the sanctuary. From tigers, elephants, and panthers to gaurs, sloth bears, and even crocs – it's a zoo-palooza! You can also hit up a Deer Safari and meet the spotted deer, hog deer, barking deer, and the downright adorable mouse deer (Chevrotain). Put nature trails next – its guided by experts who spill the beans on the coolest flora, fauna, and maybe a rare sight or two!

And hold on tight for the Botanical Gardens – a dreamy landscape with rare trees and vibrant plants that'll make nature buffs and botany nerds geek out. There's also a formal garden with lawns to chill in. Do stop by at the Rehabilitation Centre. It's the superhero hub for wounded animals. Big kudos to Bondla for this eco-rescue mission! The Nature Education Centre is a nerd's paradise with exhibits, a library, and movie nights on request that you have to check out. Oh, and a hidden gem – an ancient deity “Gajalaxmi” with bold motives dating back to VI-VIII century.

Curious about the wild wonders of Ponda Taluka's sanctuary? Here’s what's in store for you: lush greenery, a mix of moist deciduous and evergreen vibes – it's nature's playground. The State tree, Matti (Terminalia Crenulata), and Rosewood are like the rockstars of this green concert.

Wondering who you can say hello to? The cool crew includes Gaur, Goa's state animal, Sambhar deer, panther, jungle cat, leopard, toddy cat, wild boar, porcupine, scaly anteater, and the Malabar giant squirrel. They have got watchtowers strategically placed for some serious animal watching – a front-row seat to their daily drama!

Birdwatchers, you're also in for a treat. Meet the locals: Ruby-throated yellow bulbul (the state bird), common grey hornbill, and the golden-backed woodpecker. Rare bird species also drop by for a visit, and the park rangers are your VIP guides for the best bird-watching spots. 

Excited about an incredible stay amidst the lush wonders of Bondla at the Eco-tourism Complex? Whether you're a solo explorer or planning a family escapade, they've got the best of accommodations for you.

The 2-bedded suite in Tourist Cottages is ideal for two adults and a child below 12, priced at just Rs. 1000 per day. If you're bringing along an extra adventurer, it's only an additional Rs. 200, and no worries about squeezing in another bed! Solo travellers can opt for the Tourist Cottage Single Occupancy at Rs. 700 per day. For the budget-conscious, the Dormitory offers a bed for Rs. 200 per day.

To book your jungle retreat, reach out to the Dy. Conservator of Forest, Wildlife, and Eco-tourism (North) at Junta House, Panjim, via phone at 0832-2229701 or email at dcfwlnorth-forest.goa@nic.in.

Rock a comfy hat, trek-friendly clothes, and kickass hiking shoes. Make sure to apply ample sunscreen, and don't forget to apply insect repellent to fend off the bugs. Do not litter, especially plastics. Don't forget to bring your reusable water bottle.