Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary , Goa: How To Reach, Best Time & Tips

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Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary Overview

Goa, known for its exotic party life, has a lot more in store than beaches. Right from panthers to Indian venomous snakes, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary manages to shelter almost every common and rare species. One of the unexplored sights of India, this place is set up to protect and conserve the wildlife.

Step into the prized possessions of Goa, the sanctuary resides in the Western Ghats, and is spread over a vast area of 208 km2 near the village of Valpoi.

Mhadei holds many feathers in its hat. Due to the unique range of birds housing in this area, it was declared as an International Bird Area. Moreover, several Bengali tigers were recently spotted in the Sanctuary’s premises. It led to a proposal of making it into a ‘Project Tiger’ reserve.

Besides, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a staggering range of flora and fauna. From the blossoming flowers of Ashoka tree to the Indian venomous snakes, this place has a lot to offer.

Explore the wildlife sanctuary during the day time and get in touch with nature. Maintaining a safe distance from the animals, you can learn more about them from the professional guides.

Moreover, indulge in watersport activities like white water rafting, trekking at nearby suggested trails. A tip, keep your camera ready for some Insta-worthy photos!

Here is a rundown of the details you must know before planning your trip to this beautiful marvel!

History of Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary -

After the official declaration of wildlife preserve came in 1999, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary was accounted as a recent addition to the wildlife sanctuaries. Due to its formation, Goa became the only state of India to protect the Western Ghats that are located within its boundaries. The Western Ghats houses a staggering range of flora and fauna.

Flora and Fauna at Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary –

The biodiversity of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is staggering. Its 208.5 km2 covers a major part of Western Ghats. The different and sometimes dangerous, species of the Mhadei are endlessly fascinating
The most-varied biological reservoir, the sanctuary contains several species of insects, plants, birds, snakes, and other forms of life. On the contrary, it is one of the least-explored sanctuaries in India.

Flora – The trees amidst the sanctuary are massive and full of nutrients. Moist forests of Mhadei contains deciduous vegetation and some evergreen species. The presence of the flora amongst the sanctuary is a significant part of Western Ghats, as they influence Indian monsoon weather patterns.

Here, you can spot an evergreen variety of the Ashoka tree which blossoms with distinct saffron-coloured flowers. Also, sheltering under the Western Ghats, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary confines of several endemic and rare vegetation. You will come across many endemic orchids too.

Fauna – Away from the hustle-bustle of the city, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a safe repository of animal life. Some animals can be seen within the sanctuary, some rarely, whilst others are commonly seen.

The rare animals you can spot here are Black Panther, Sloth bear, Giant squirrel, Mouse deer, Dhole or Asian wild dog, and much more. Whereas, you can easily notice Sambar deer, Indian hare, Ruddy mongoose, Black-faced langur, and whatnot.

Apart from animals, Mhadei is home to more than 255 species of birds. The place is lively because of some unique birds like the Nilgiri wood-pigeon, Malabar parakeet, Malabar grey hornbill, Grey-headed Bulbul, etc.

Also, these birds are the reason behind the declaration of Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as an International Bird area. The results even show that 53 out of 255 species breed in the sanctuary.

What’s less known is the fact that the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary – contains a large variety of snakes and amphibians.

You can easily spot the ‘big four’ of Indian venomous snakes like Indian krait, Russell’s viper, Saw-scaled viper, and Spectacled cobra. Whereas, the amphibians include the endangered Marbled ramanella, Maharashtra bush frog, Malabar gliding frogs, and much more.

How To Reach

From Panaji – You can reach Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary via NH748 or MDR22 and SH1 routes. You can easily hire a cab, taxi, bus, or take your vehicle to visit this place. Or, you can reach Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary by rail. Catch a train from Panaji to Margao and then hire a cab to the sanctuary. The distance between both places is almost 60 km.

From Goa International Airport – After reaching the Goa international airport, you can hire a cab to Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary. Located almost 70 km away, the ride will take almost one and a half hours to reach.

Best Time To Visit

October to March is a really good time to visit. Also, the sanctuary experiences heaviest tourist traffic during winters. The weather is usually pleasant and convenient for strolling around the sanctuary. The monsoons, from July till September, are also a good time of the year to visit. The Mhadei river is at its peak and the scenery of this place comes alive.

Summers, from April to June, is usually avoided because of the humid and sweaty weather. The temperature usually exceeds 35 degrees Celsius during this time. Whereas, in the spring season, Goa starts getting warmer.

Other Essential Information

Location – Situated near the village of Valpoi, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the northern part of Goa.

Price – There is no entry fee for visiting the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary.

Timing – The sanctuary opens around 8 am and you can visit it until 5.30 pm.

Places to eat near Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary –

While exploring the splendid Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, you don’t want to miss the local eateries and delicacies of this place.

Sameer Bar and Restaurant – Looking for a frenzied bar and restaurant? Sameer Bar and Restaurant is the place you should be in. One of the most visited places in Valpoi, you can lose yourself in its beauty.

Here, parties can reach crazy levels because of its discotheque ambience, cool cocktails, and tranquil restaurant area. In the nights, you can witness dazzling lights, exotic ambience with rocking live music.

Big Bite Family Restaurant – Want to explore the local eateries? Head to Big Bite Family Restaurant. With an ambience of warm lights, the restaurant offers various cuisines and offers the same taste like home-cooked food. Konkani eateries are highly recommended.

Earthen Pot Restaurant – Yet another restaurant in Valpoi, Earthen Pot Restaurant is famed for its mouth-watering dishes and clean services.

It is popular among tourists for its polite and courteous staff. For relishing on authentic Konkani and Vegetarian food, you have to head here. Don’t forget to try its starters and beverages.

Uzair’s Kitchen – The restaurant is known for its pizza and fast food. One of the well-known places in Valpoi, Uzair’s Kitchen is the perfect place for aromatic spicy dishes and authentic Konkani food. Many tourists refer it to as elegant, refined, and comfortable.

Green View Bar and Restaurant – Looking for an extravagant place to eat? Head to Green View Bar and Restaurant. It is known for its aesthetic and cosy ambience, pulsating dance floor, and unique décor. Swing by the bar for cocktails and rejuvenating experience.

Sneha Hotel - Missing North Indian food while exploring Goa? Sneha Hotel is the place that would solve it. A perfect place for a family, it offers many options in their varied menu. Nibble on the appetizing while watching the sun go down across the steep trails of Western Ghats.

Tips for visiting Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary -

1. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and sunglasses for protecting your skin and eyes.

2.To spot the birds around the sanctuary, carry binoculars with you.

3. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Also, keep checking your shoes every time before wearing them to avoid scorpions and other creatures.

4. Carry mosquito and insect repellent creams with you to avoid allergies and insect bites.

5. If you are visiting during winters, carry proper woollens and effective sunscreen.

6. Wear comfortable clothes and muted forest colours like earthy green or beiges.

7. Look out for network connectivity as it can get patchy and provide no service at all.

Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary FAQs

How do I get to Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary?

By air – Take a direct flight to Goa International Airport and hire a cab to reach Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary.

By rail – You can take a train from Panaji Railway Station to Madgaon Railway Station and then hail a cab to the sanctuary.

By road – To travel by road, you can hire a cab, taxi, or motorcycle from Panaji. Local buses are also available.

What is the best time of the day to spot animals at Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary?

Usually, visitors prefer to explore Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary in the day time. You can reach here around 8 am and savour the pristine surroundings. Due to proper sunlight, you can witness animals and birds out in the open, enjoying the surroundings and the weather.