Goa is known for its stunning beaches, but beyond the coastline lies a world of lush forests, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. Goa National Parks provide visitors with enchanting wilderness opportunities such as jungle treks and encounters with unique animals, together with waterfall views. From the famous Bhagwan Mahavir National Park to the wildlife-rich Mhadei Sanctuary, these parks showcase a different side of Goa. Whether you're an adventure lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone seeking tranquility, these parks promise an unforgettable experience. The journey offers the unique chance to discover their hidden natural wonders!
How Many National Parks Are There in Goa?
The state of Goa contains one primary national park together with multiple wildlife sanctuaries, which protect a wide range of plant and animal species. The Bhagwan Mahavir National Park, which also houses the Mollem National Park, is the only designated national park in the state. However, Goa contains multiple wildlife sanctuaries, which host a rich biodiversity that delivers extraordinary experiences.
Here’s a detailed look at the list of national parks in Goa and what makes them special.
1. Bhagwan Mahavir National Park
Bhagwan Mahavir National Park stands as the largest and most diverse among all the Goa national parks. Visitors can find 240 square kilometers of pure paradise dedicated to nature lovers and adventure seekers in this area. The park contains dense forest areas, flowery waterfalls and multiple species of wildlife situated in the Western Ghats region. This location ranks as the top destination for people who wish to discover nature apart from Goa's beach attractions.
The famous Dudhsagar Waterfalls provide visitors with a mesmerizing view and are one of the highest waterfalls in India. The park wildlife population consists of leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison and more than 120 species of birds. The park draws many nature-lovers because people can walk between forested areas and attractive vistas through mountain paths. Visitors can discover the Tambdi Surla Temple, which is a 12th-century Shiva temple situated within the park boundaries.
- Location: Sanguem, South Goa
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
2. Mollem National Park – A Nature Lovers’ Paradise
Mollem National Park stands among the most stunning Goa national parks, and it resides inside Bhagwan Mahavir National Park. This biodiverse natural reserve stands out as a perfect destination for both wildlife observation and birdwatching because of its rich greenery. Visitors can use jeep safaris to explore dense forests of the area and watch the Bengal tigers, leopards, Malabar giant squirrels and many different bird species.
The Tambdi Surla Temple stands as a monumental shrine inside the park, which is an aged Shiva temple that attracts many visitors. Visitors can enjoy trekking routes through the park, which lead them into the depths of the jungle where they can experience wildlife in an immersive manner. Guests can visit Dudhsagar Waterfalls near the park, which is also delightfully the scenic natural attractions of the region. Goa residents seeking wild adventures should visit Mollem National Park for their perfect outdoor experience.
- Location: Sanguem, South Goa
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
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3. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary functions as a sanctuary rather than a national park, though it provides similar experiences to Goa National Parks. The sanctuary situated in South Goa wins fame for its majestic trees that rise to 30 meters tall. Visitors find peace in the dense forest environment that creates an ideal setting for trekking while providing excellent opportunities to watch wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy observing animals naturally in their environment while they stand on special tree-top watchtowers in Cotigao. The sanctuary contains Indian bison, also known as gaurs, sloth bears, panthers and Malabar giant squirrels. The sanctuary attracts nature enthusiasts through its plentiful bird species, yet large wildlife sightings remain difficult. Visitors seeking solitude among natural surroundings should choose Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary to escape typical tourist locations.
- Location: Canacona, South Goa
- Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
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4. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary represents a compact yet well-maintained Goa national park. This wildlife reserve stands apart from others since it provides a friendly environment for families, children and animal enthusiasts. The park consists of four main attractions that include a mini zoo, botanical garden, a deer safari park and an elephant rehabilitation center.
This sanctuary shelters five distinct animal species such as leopards, Indian bison, wild boars and multiple species of deer. Bird-watching enthusiasts will find many species to observe at this location. Educational programs at the nature education center make Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary one of the best locations for school group visits. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary stands as an excellent wildlife destination for those seeking easy yet pleasant encounters with wildlife.
- Location: Ponda, North Goa
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
5. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary stands as one of the purest Goa national parks where nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers can discover their paradise. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary occupies the northern section of Goa while offering dense forested areas and hilly landscapes together with abundant biodiversity. The sanctuary occupies 208 square kilometers of land while it functions as an integral part of maintaining the natural biodiversity of the region. This sanctuary stands among the most important parts of the Western Ghats World Heritage Site, so visitors interested in nature should see it.
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary draws many visitors because it provides a unique opportunity to witness the Royal Bengal Tiger since the area is proposed as a tiger reserve. The sanctuary shelters the rare black panthers, Indian gaurs, sloth bears, leopards, barking deer and black panthers. Birdwatchers come to Mhadei because they might observe three important species, which include the endangered Malabar pied hornbill, the paradise flycatcher and the colorful kingfisher.
In addition to its wildlife collection, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary presents two breathtaking waterfalls known as Vazra Sakla and Virdi Falls. Trekking stands as one popular outdoor pursuit in this area, where visitors walk through dense vegetation, which enables them to experience Goa's pristine wilderness. The offbeat destination, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, stands out as a paramount stop among Goa's national parks.
- Location: North Goa, near Valpoi
- Entry Fee: Free entry (guided tours recommended)
- Timings: Open all day, but early mornings are best for wildlife spotting
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6. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary stands among Goa's national parks as a peaceful and scenic sanctuary located in South Goa. The area consists of 211 square kilometers of essential Western Ghats terrain, which holds World Heritage status from UNESCO. This wildlife sanctuary received its name from the Netravali River, and it protects several species of wildlife, including leopards, Indian gaurs, Malabar giant squirrels together with sloth bears. Nature enthusiasts, along with activity enthusiasts, will find their haven at this destination because of its dense forest areas combined with waterfall displays and trekking paths.
A distinct feature of this place is Budbud Lake, a mysterious bubbling lake caused by underground gases. Birdwatchers can detect two rare species, which include the Nilgiri wood pigeon and Malabar trogon, in their territory. Visitors exploring this place will find peace among the natural elements.
- Location: Sanguem, South Goa
- Entry Fee: Free entry
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Goa offers its visitors more than the combination of beaches and nightlife because it functions as an absolute haven for nature enthusiasts as well. All these national parks, which include Bhagwan Mahavir National Park, Mollem National Park and Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, provide vacationers with distinct opportunities to experience wildlife together with outdoor expeditions and breathtaking vistas. Experience Goa's unexplored wilderness by visiting the national parks. These Goa national parks provide perfectly suitable experiences for every nature enthusiast who desires treks and animal observations or wants to enjoy peaceful natural settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many national parks are in Goa?
Goa has only one national park, known as Bhagwan Mahavir National Park, which encompasses both Bhagwan Mahavir National Park and Mollem National Park.
2. Which is the most famous national park in Goa?
The popular Bhagwan Mahavir National Park stands as the biggest of all the national parks in Goa, making it famous due to its beloved Dudhsagar Waterfalls and rich wildlife presence.
3. What are the 5 wildlife sanctuaries in Goa?
Wildlife sanctuaries in Goa include Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Molem Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, and many more.
4. Are there tigers in Goa?
Tigers can be observed within Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, and officials aim to establish it as a tiger reserve.
