Tucked away in the lush foothills of the Western Ghats, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is the smallest protected forest in Goa, covering just 7.98 square kilometers. Located in Ponda Taluka, about 50 km from Panaji and 38 km from Margao, this compact sanctuary packs a rich natural and educational experience for families, students, and nature enthusiasts.

Natural Beauty and Forest Landscape

Bondla’s landscape features a mix of moist deciduous forests, semi-evergreen patches, and riparian vegetation. The forest canopy includes:

• Goa’s state tree: Matti (Terminalia crenulata)
• Indian rosewood, crape-myrtle, mimusops, jamba
• Dense bamboo groves and medicinal plants

You’ll also find beautifully maintained botanical gardens and ornamental flower beds, ideal for photography, relaxation, and botany lovers.

Wildlife Diversity   

Despite its small size, Bondla supports a surprising variety of wildlife:

1. Mammals

• Gaur (Indian Bison) – Goa’s state animal
• Sloth bears, leopards, porcupines, Malabar giant squirrels
• Various deer species – sambar, spotted, barking, hog, and mouse deer
• Wild boar, jungle cats, and pangolins

2. Birds

Home to 180+ bird species, Bondla is a paradise for birdwatchers:

• Malabar and common grey hornbills
• Flame-throated and golden-backed woodpeckers
• Kingfishers, Sri Lanka frogmouth, ruby-throated bulbul (Goa’s state bird)

3. Reptiles and Others

• Crocodiles, cobras, pythons, and rare sand boas
• A wide range of butterflies, insects, and amphibians including a unique caecilian species

Visitor Information

• Timings :  Open Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
• Entry Fees : ₹5–₹20 for Indians, ~₹50 for foreigners, Camera fee ₹25–₹150
• Parking Charges Bikes: ₹10–₹25, Cars: ₹50–₹75, Buses: ₹150
• Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather); Monsoons (lush         greenery, fungi, birdlife)
• Nearest Access Points : Airport: Dabolim (50 km), Railway: Kulem (28 km), Margao (38 km)

Top Attractions in Bondla

1. Mini Zoo & Rescue Center

Goa’s only zoo features tigers, bears, snakes, leopards, and elephants. The zoo also rehabilitates rescued animals, such as former “dancing” bears and injured leopards.

2. Deer Safari Park

An open enclosure where different deer species roam freely—a highlight for kids and wildlife photographers.

3. Botanical and Formal Gardens

Ideal for a quiet walk or plant study, the gardens house native and exotic plants with labeled paths and manicured lawns.

4. Nature Education Centre

An informative space featuring displays, a library, documentaries, and even ancient relics—like a 6th–8th century Gajalakshmi sculpture.

5. Guided Nature Trails

Recently introduced guided trails (day and night) allow visitors to explore Bondla’s deeper forest zones—spot frogs, mushrooms, night birds, and more.

6. Eco-Tourism Cottages

Stay overnight in simple yet serene forest cottages or dormitories operated by the Goa Forest Department.

Why Visit Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

• Family & School-Friendly: The mini-zoo and deer safari provide a safe, fun, and educational outing for children and students.
• Eco-Tourism Escape: Peaceful walking trails, botanical gardens, and forest cottages offer a serene nature retreat.
• Wildlife & Birdwatching: Spot diverse animals, over 275 bird species, reptiles, butterflies, and native plants in a compact area.
• Educational Value: Learn about conservation through exhibits, a nature library, guided tours, and a rescue and rehabilitation center.

Images of Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Tips for visiting Bondla wildlife sanctuary

1. Planning Your Visit

• Arrive early (around 9–10 AM) to enjoy cooler temperatures and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
• Avoid Mondays – the sanctuary remains closed every Monday.
• Plan your visit between October and March for pleasant weather; monsoon season (July–September) offers lush greenery and vibrant birdlife.

2. What to Carry

• Water bottle – no plastic disposal points inside, so reusable bottles are ideal.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for protection from the sun.
• Insect repellent – helpful, especially during treks and in monsoon months.
• Binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
• Camera with extra batteries/memory – a must for photography lovers (note: camera fee applicable).
• Light snacks – there are limited food facilities inside; avoid carrying plastic.

3. What to Wear

• Wear lightweight, full-sleeved clothing in earthy or neutral tones to blend into the environment.
• Comfortable walking shoes or trekking sandals are ideal, especially for nature trails.

4. While Exploring the Sanctuary

• Stick to designated paths and guided trails to avoid disturbing the habitat.
• Maintain silence during walks and safaris—wildlife is sensitive to noise.
• Do not feed or provoke animals.
• Refrain from picking plants, flowers, or disturbing insects.
• Do not litter – use designated dustbins or carry your waste out.

5. Staying at Bondla

• If planning an overnight stay in eco-cottages or dormitories, book in advance through the Goa Forest Department.
• Carry a torch/flashlight if staying overnight for ease during power fluctuations or guided night trails.

6. Extra Recommendations

• Visit the Nature Interpretation Centre to learn about Bondla’s biodiversity and local conservation efforts.
• Enjoy the Botanical Garden, especially if you’re interested in plant species or macro photography.
• Don’t miss the Deer Safari Park and Mini Zoo, especially if visiting with kids.

7. Important Reminders

• Follow all sanctuary rules and signage.
• Mobile network might be patchy, especially deep inside the sanctuary—inform someone before your visit.
• Pets are not allowed inside the sanctuary.

How to reach Bondla wildlife sanctuary

1. By Air

The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport, approximately 48–50 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi, rent a car, or catch a bus to Bondla. Typical travel time is around 1¼ hours.

2. By Train

Kulem (Collem) on the Mormugao–Hubli line is about 28 km from Bondla. Taxis or buses are available from there.

Margao (Madgaon) station is approximately 35–38 km away, also serviced by taxis and buses.

Carambolim (Karmali) station is about 40 km distant.

3. By Road

• From Panaji (Panjim): ~46–52 km, ~1–1¼ hours via NH 4A, passing through Ponda → Usgao/Ganjem → Bondla
• From Margao: ~36–38 km via Ponda → Usgao/Ganjem → Bondla .

From Mollem (off NH 4A):

Two routes

• Mollem → Satpal → Sancorda → Shivddem → Bondla (~20 km).
• Tiska → Usgao → Ganjem → Bondla (~14 km).

Buses run regularly from Panaji and Margao, and taxis/cabs are readily available.

Many visitors also prefer traveling by rental bike, as the roads are scenic and well-maintained.