One of the smallest protected areas in Goa, the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a popular place to see birds. It is situated on the island of Chorao in the Mandovi River and holds the name of renowned ornithologist Dr Salim Ali. From the Ribandar ferry wharf near Panjim, it takes 15 minutes to reach the sanctuary by ferry. The greatest time to go is in the winter, from October to March, to see the migratory birds. Surrounded by dense tropical plant life, this sanctuary is home to rarely-seen animals and over 473 species of birds. 

The Forest Department of Goa initially recognized the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary as a national park in 1988, and since then, birdwatchers from all over the world have been drawn to it. However, the sanctuary serves as a natural habitat for a large number of other wild animals. During low tide, one can spot marsh crocodiles and mudskipper fish living in the park's crisscrossing water channels that travel through the mangrove forest.

The park provides boat rides in dugout canoes through its mangrove swamps, providing you with a fun outdoor experience and some knowledge of the aquatic creatures that live there. In the park, you may observe the fascinating behavior of the birds and animals while taking in an aerial perspective of your surroundings from the watchtower. 

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a fantastic getaway location for activities like boating, nature trekking, sightseeing, picnics outside, and cycling rides in addition to wildlife expeditions. Some further information about this Goan Sylvan retreat is given below.

As soon as you enter this sanctuary, you will be surrounded by an array of bird sounds, each one more beautiful than the last. With more than 400 different types of birds from small sunbirds to imposing eagles the sanctuary offers a refuge for both resident and migratory birds. The chance to see these magnificent beauties in their native habitat, from the graceful purple heron to the secretive Malabar pied hornbill, will please birdwatchers and nature lovers.

As you proceed through the sanctuary, the dense foliage of the mangrove forests will surround you, their tangled roots creating a confusing network of trails and waterfalls. A wide range of aquatic species, from vibrant fish to elusive crabs, depend on these mangrove ecosystems as important breeding sites and nurseries. For a unique perspective on this biodiverse habitat, visitors can take a guided boat trip through the sanctuary's winding waterways.

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is not just a popular tourist destination; It is also an important part of conservation efforts to protect Goa's abundant biodiversity. Visitors can take advantage of educational programs and guided tours that provide practical information about the value of wetland ecosystems and the need to protect them. Scientists and conservationists can also research bird behavior, habitat restoration and environmental monitoring in the sanctuary.

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Using your Goan accommodations as a starting point, set your GPS to the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chor o Island. Popular tourist destinations like Panaji and Calangute are about 30 kilometers away from the sanctuary. As you head into the sanctuary, take in the gorgeous trip by lush scenery and charming Goan villages.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is still open daily from 6 am to 6 pm. One should reach the sanctuary before 7 am. The best time to see birds in their most playful mood is early morning. You can also go on a boat ride in the nearby Mandovi River. Winter is the ideal time of year to visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary as migratory birds come from far-flung areas and spend several months there. The sanctuary sees the highest traffic in October to March. Additionally, around dawn and dusk are the best times of the day to view wildlife.

Following a quick journey in a self drive rental car, you can explore a few neighbouring tourist attractions from the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. These places are:

A short drive from the sanctuary lies the famous Reis Magos Fort, an ideal place to immerse oneself in Goan history. This centuries-old stronghold, perched atop a hill overlooking the Mandovi River, provides insight into Goa's colonial past in addition to offering expansive views of the surrounding countryside.

Go off the beaten track and experience the rustic charm of Divar Island, which is reachable from Chor o Island by a picturesque drive and ferry journey. Experience the timeless charm of rural Goa as you stroll through the island's charming villages, historic churches, and verdant landscapes.

Hire a self drive car from Car4Hires for easy travel to these nearby tourist destinations if you'd like to see them. By renting a self drive car from Car4Hires, you can visit any tourist destination in Goa. This will make your trip to Goa much more enjoyable.

In short, the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary invites visitors to fully appreciate Goa's breathtaking natural surroundings and the fascinating world of bird diversity. A visit to this sanctuary promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience, regardless of whether you're an experienced birdwatcher, a wildlife enthusiast, or just looking for peace and quiet in calm surroundings. So grab your walking shoes and binoculars and head out on an amazing trip of discovery right in the middle of Goa's birdwatching paradise.