The Bondla wildlife sanctuary is probably the most popular sanctuary in the state. It is quite small and covers an area of just 8 square km. It is located in the hills and covers small parts of three Talukas: Ponda, Sanguem and Satari. Well developed the sanctuary boasts of a mini zoo, a deer safari park, Botanical Gardens and Eco tourism cottages. Which can be rented out at very nominal rates (Rs.100 per night double occupancy per during the season and Rs 60 per night during the off season).

Bondla is covered with moist Deciduous forest with the state tree Terminalia Crenulata (Matti) and Rosewood being the most common trees around. Evergreens and a variety of canes can also be found. Where fauna is concerned you can find the Gaur (bison), a number of jungle cats and a variety of birds.

Zoological Park: Bondla boasts of Goa's only zoo, albeit a bit small one. Inmates include panther, Asiatic Lion, Gaurm sambar, three types of deer, Sloth bears, crocodiles and a number of snakes.

Deer safari park: You can watch deer in their natural habitats in the comfort of your vehicle.

Bird Watching: Bondla is home to over a hundred species of birds.

Wild Animals: The sanctuary is equipped with watch towers where the adventurous can watch wild animals at their water holes.

Nature Trails: Bondla has a number of nature trails, which the more energetic can explore.

How do you get there: Bondla is just a little way off the National Highway 4A. If you branch off at Mollem: Mollem-Satpal – Sancorda – Shivddem – Bondla, it would work out to about 20 km if you branch off at Tiska: Tiska – Usgaon – Gangem – Bondla. This route is approximately 14 km long.

Whom to contact:

Dy. Conservator of Forests
Wildlife Division
Forest Department
4 th Floor, Junta House
Panjim
Tel: 2229701

The Chief Wildlife Warden
Forest Department
3 rd Floor, Junta House
Panjim                  
Tel: 2225926

Note: The zoo, deer safari, and gardens are closed to public on Thursdays.