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Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
The breath-takingly beautiful beaches draw much of Goa's share of limelight. But the hot and humid tropical climate of Goa coupled with the presence of more than forty estuarine, eight marine and about ninety riverine islands is conducive to a lush vegetation which in turn supports a varied wildlife. The wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa are home to a wide variety of land marine and avian wildlife population which make them a popular haunt for all wildlife enthusiasts and photography buffs from all over the country. The Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary on the eastern border of Goa is spread over 240 sq. km and is the largest wildlife reserve in Goa. It is located in the Sanguem Taluk in the North Goa district.
How to Reach
The Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary located at the foothills of the Wester Ghats is 53 kilometres away from the state capital, Panaji. On the north of Panaji along the road to Belgaum comes this sanctuary which was earlier named the Mollem Game Sanctuary (till 1978 when it became a national park). Regular bus service managed by the Kadamba Transport Corporation from Kadamba bus station at Panaji, (60km) connect sanctuary to Panaji.
Flora & Fauna
The vegetation consists mainly of Tropical evergreen forest, Semi evergreen and moist deciduous forest. The evergreen type of forests are mostly locayted on higher altitudes and along the river banks. The sanctuary abounds in a wide variety of wildlife including deer, Indian Bison, monkeys, elephant, leopard, sloth bear, flying squirrel, Malayan Giant squirrel, porcupine, civet, cat,
jungle fowl, tigers and a few black panthers. The famous inhabitant of the park is the King Cobra. Other snakes like python, Krait, Viper etc. have also been located. The avian population consists of 200 species of birds, of which the better known ones are Indian Black Woodpecker, the Malabar Pied Hornbill, Paradise Fly Catcher, Fairy Blue Bird, Drongo, Wag tails, Barbets, Great Indian Horn Bill, Kingfishers, Shrikes, Emerald Dove, Grey Jungle Fowl etc.
Other Attractions
Apart from the exciting reserve of wildlife, the beautiful Dudhsagar falls(200m), the highest waterfall in Goa is easily accessible. The nature interpretation centre at Mollem instructs the tourists on the vegetation and the character of the forest.
Access
Jeeps are available for venturing into the forest. Contact Forest range officer for the service. The best time to visit the sanctuary is either early in the morning or late in the evening since those are the times when the wildlife is most active. October to March is the best season for visiting the park.
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