Tourism
of Goa
Wildlife
in Goa
Bhagvan
Mahavir Wildlife SanctuaryAlong
the north from Panaji on the road to Belgaum, is a sanctuary that covers
240-sq-kms. Thick forest clad slopes of the Western Ghats that is rich in
wildlife and a paradise for bird watchers.
The Bhagwan Mahavir
Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Goan town of Mollem. With a total area
of 240 sq kms, this is the largest of Goa's four protected wildlife areas,
and contains within it The Molem National Park.
The sanctuary is
situated on the eastern border of Goa, with Karnataka 53 kms away from
Panaji and 54 kms away from Margao. It is easily accessible by both road and
rail.
Unless you stay for at least a couple of days, it is
unlikely that you will catch a glimpse of many of the animals that are
sheltered in the sanctuary, including Gaur, Sambar, Leopards, Spotted Deer,
Slender Toris, Jungle Cats, Malayan Giant Squirrels, Pythons and Cobras.
There are important geographical and historical features in this
sanctuary. Jeeps on private arrangements go to the interior of the forest.
The sanctuary is particularly known for its Leopards, Elephants, Deers &
Gaur Or Indian Bison.
It is more convenient to view wild animals
from the Devil's Canion View Point. Bird lovers may also find their best
time over here. The famous temple of Tambdisurla of the Kadambas is situated
13-km from here. In Mangalore to Margao journey on Konkan Railway one can
enjoy the beauty of Dudhsagar through the windows.
Mollem has
comfortable cottages and dormitories built by the Directorate of Tourism for
accommodation. Police Outpost at the gateway of the sanctuary in calm and
quiet surroundings is like a painting on a canvas in Mollem.
The
sanctuary's setting in the foothills of the Western Ghats is wonderful and
the countryside is one of the most peaceful that you'll come across in Goa.
One hundred metres west of the entrance to the Molem Tourist Resort is the
Nature Education Centre, where you can contact the Range Forest Officer,
from whom you can obtain permission for vehicle access through the main park
gate (which is about 3 km east along the National Highway 4A). There is also
an observation platform a few kms into the park and the best time to see
wildlife is in the early morning or late evening.
Around Molem
The
structure of the 13th century Mahadeva Temple at Tambdi Surla is the only
surviving evidence of the glorious Kadamba Dynasty in Goa. Besides being
historically interesting, it's also visually striking.
The temple
appears to have survived the ravages of both the Muslim and Portuguese
invaders by the virtue of its incredibly isolated location. The temple is
about 13 kms north of Molem, and a trip out to it, along the quiet country
lanes, is an experience not to be missed.
About
Goa