Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Chorao
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Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Chorao

3.8
·4k reviews·Madel, India

A serene mangrove sanctuary on Chorao Island, offering incredible birdwatching opportunities and a peaceful escape into nature.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings (6-7 AM)

Prime time for bird activity

CrowdLow
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Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Chorao

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Chorao

Best Time

Early mornings (6-7 AM)

Prime time for bird activity

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene mangrove sanctuary on Chorao Island, offering incredible birdwatching opportunities and a peaceful escape into nature.

3.8
(4k reviews)

"A paradise for birdwatchers with a serene mangrove forest and diverse wildlife."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Views

Visit around 6-7 AM for optimal bird sightings and boat rides. :sunrise:

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

Entry is just ₹10 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mangrove Boardwalk

Mangrove Boardwalk

Chorao Island

Stroll through the lush mangrove forest on a paved walkway, offering a unique perspective of the ecosystem.

InstagramReddit
Birdwatching Watchtower

Birdwatching Watchtower

Within the sanctuary

Ascend the multi-level watchtower for panoramic views and excellent opportunities to spot diverse bird species.

Reddit
Boat Safari

Boat Safari

Mandovi River

Embark on a boat ride through the mangroves to discover hidden avian life and potentially spot crocodiles.

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Bird Sightings

Visit early morning (around 6-7 AM) or late afternoon (around 5 PM) for the best chances to spot migratory birds and other wildlife. Boat rides are typically only available during these prime hours. Reddit+1

Access and Renovation Updates

The sanctuary is accessible via ferry from Ribandar. Be aware that pathways may be under renovation, potentially impacting accessibility. Check for the latest updates before your visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings (6-7 AM)
Why
Prime time for bird activity
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons (5 PM)
Why
Birds return to roost
Crowd
Low
When
Winter months
Why
Migratory bird season
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Things get HEATED when Salim swoops in and steals Steinys girl !! #fullsend #nelk #nelkIRL #nelkonkick
@eclipsguy
7K likes • 165.7K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Views

Visit around 6-7 AM for optimal bird sightings and boat rides. Reddit+1 :sunrise:

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

Entry is just ₹10 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners. Instagram :moneybag:

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is one of the smallest protected areas in Goa. This slice of ornithological heaven is undoubtedly a fabulous insight into the fragile eco system. Located on the island of Chorao in the Mandovi river, the sanctuary is accessible by a ferry which starts at the Ribandar ferry wharf, about 15 mins drive from Panjim. . . Follow @beautyofgoa for more!! . . #goa #beautyofgoa ...
beautyofgoa
94.5K likes • 2.4M views
📍Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary,Chora Island Goa You can Visit Chorao Island by ferry from Ribandar Timings:09:00am- 06:pm Follow @melissa_dias27
melissa_dias27
10K likes • 247.3K views

🚗 Ferry Access

Take the ferry from Ribandar; it's a short ride and affordable for pedestrians and vehicles. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Mangrove Walk

Enjoy a peaceful 1 km walk through the stunning mangrove forest. Reddit :walking:

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is an estuarine mangrove habitat, which is declared as the bird sanctuary, and located on western tip of the Island of Chorao along the Mandovi River, Goa, in India. The sanctuary is named after Salim Ali, the eminent Indian ornithologist. #serene #kayak #friends #memories #kayaking #mangroveforest #travel #trend #trendingreels #travelphotography #birdsanctuary #bird...
salehayohann
35 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Views

Visit around 6-7 AM for optimal bird sightings and boat rides. Reddit+1 :sunrise:

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

Entry is just ₹10 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners. Instagram :moneybag:

🚗 Ferry Access

Take the ferry from Ribandar; it's a short ride and affordable for pedestrians and vehicles. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Mangrove Walk

Enjoy a peaceful 1 km walk through the stunning mangrove forest. Reddit :walking:

🗣️ Hire a Local Guide

Enhance your experience with local stories and insights from a guide. Reddit :bustsinsilhouette:

What Travellers Say

3.8
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the sanctuary as a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, highlighting the serene mangrove environment and the chance to see diverse wildlife. However, some reviews mention ongoing renovation work that can impact pathways and accessibility, and boat ride costs can be a consideration for some. Reddit+2

"Place is closed as on 01-Oct. All the pathways are destroyed for renovation. The renovation is ongoing and expected to complete by 2027. Only way to reach here is by ferry and they charge INR300 one way for self drive cars. Do not waste your time here."

Pranav Ramakrishnan

"This is nothing less than a paradise of birth watchers as a wide array of migratory birds can be spotted here. Apart from rich avian fauna, one can also spot jackals and crocodiles. Winter birds such as coots and pintails are also seen. Inside the sanctuary, you will find a three storeyed watchtower, which has been built to facilitate birdwatching. This tower offers an enchanting view of the sanctuary at three different levels. Tourist can get a panoramic view of the area at the canopy level, below canopy level and above canopy level of the vegetation."

ABHILASH T P

"The place has its charm but could use better maintenance to enhance the overall experience. One of the highlights is the opportunity to spot various species of mud crabs, which is quite fascinating.

To make the most of your visit, it’s best to go early in the morning, around 6:30-7 AM, as boat rides are only available during this time. Despite some maintenance needs, it's worth visiting for nature enthusiasts."

Vivek Dhande

What People Like

Serene mangrove ecosystem
Abundant birdlife
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Renovation impacting pathways
Boat ride cost

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The sanctuary is located on Chorao Island and is best accessed by taking a ferry from the Ribandar ferry wharf. The ferry is frequent and accommodates both pedestrians and vehicles. InstagramReddit+1 Some travelers suggest using Atal Setu to reach the area as well. Reddit

Limited parking is usually available at the Ribandar ferry point. It's advisable to arrive early, especially if you are driving, to secure a spot. Instagram

The ferry typically costs ₹10 for four-wheelers and is free for pedestrians. Instagram

While direct public transport to the sanctuary might be limited, you can take a bus to Panjim and then a local bus or taxi to Ribandar ferry wharf. From there, you'll take the ferry. Instagram

There have been reports of pathways being under renovation, which might affect access. It's recommended to check for the latest updates on the sanctuary's status before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entry fee is approximately ₹10 for Indian nationals and ₹100 for foreign nationals. There are also separate charges for still and video cameras. Instagram

The sanctuary is generally open from 6 AM to 6 PM. Visiting early in the morning is highly recommended for birdwatching. InstagramReddit+1

Advance booking is usually not required for general entry. However, for specific activities like boat tours, it's best to inquire upon arrival or book in advance if possible. Reddit

The mangrove walk is often included with the general entry fee, or there might be a nominal charge. One source mentions ₹100 for the walk trial. Reddit

Information on specific discounts for students or groups is not widely available. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🐦 Onsite Experience

The sanctuary is home to a wide array of avian fauna, including migratory birds like coots and pintails during winter. You can also spot resident birds and various species of mud crabs. Reddit+1

Yes, boat rides are available and highly recommended for exploring the mangrove creeks and spotting birds. They are usually offered in the early morning. InstagramReddit

Boat ride prices can vary. One source mentions ₹1200 per boat trip for a group of 6, which comes to about ₹200 per head. Reddit

The sanctuary features a three-story watchtower offering different viewing levels, and a paved walkway through the mangroves. Reddit+1

Absolutely! The mangrove forest, diverse birdlife, and serene environment make it a fantastic spot for nature photography. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no significant dining facilities directly within the sanctuary. It's advisable to carry your own snacks and water. Instagram

You can find local eateries and restaurants in Ribandar or Panjim before or after your visit to the sanctuary. Instagram

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks. Please ensure you dispose of any waste responsibly. Instagram

While not directly adjacent, exploring Ribandar or Panjim will offer opportunities to try authentic Goan dishes. Instagram

Packing a picnic is a great idea, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring the sanctuary and its surroundings. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The mangrove boardwalk, the watchtower, and the boat safari routes offer excellent photographic opportunities. Early morning light is particularly beautiful. Instagram+1

There might be separate fees for still and video cameras. It's always good practice to be respectful of wildlife and avoid disturbing them for a shot. Instagram

You can photograph a variety of resident and migratory birds, fiddler crabs, and potentially jackals and crocodiles. Reddit+1

A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing detailed shots of birds, especially if they are at a distance. Instagram

The golden hours, early morning and late afternoon, provide the best light for photography and are also when wildlife is most active. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary offers a wonderful educational outing for families. The mangrove boardwalk provides a safe and engaging way for children to explore nature. InstagramReddit The watchtower is also a hit, offering a sense of adventure as kids can climb and survey the surroundings. Reddit Consider a boat ride for an exciting way to spot wildlife, which can be a memorable experience for younger ones. InstagramReddit Pack plenty of snacks and water, as dining options are limited. Instagram

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers

This sanctuary is a must-visit for anyone passionate about ornithology and nature. The early morning and late afternoon hours are crucial for maximizing bird sightings. Reddit+1 Don't miss the opportunity for a boat safari through the mangroves, which offers a unique perspective and chances to see a wider variety of species. InstagramReddit Bringing a good telephoto lens will greatly enhance your photography experience. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers seeking tranquility, the mangrove boardwalk offers a peaceful and contemplative walk. InstagramReddit The sanctuary is relatively small, making it manageable for a solo exploration. Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the area's biodiversity and local lore. Reddit The ferry ride itself is a pleasant experience, and the sanctuary provides a great opportunity for quiet observation and photography. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rich Avian Life of Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting a diverse range of avian species. During the winter months, it becomes a crucial stop for numerous migratory birds, including popular species like coots and pintails. Reddit The sanctuary's estuarine mangrove habitat provides a rich feeding ground, attracting a variety of resident birds as well. Visitors often report hearing the constant chirping of birds even if they don't spot them directly. Instagram

Beyond the feathered inhabitants, the sanctuary is also known for its unique ecosystem. You might spot other fascinating creatures like fiddler crabs scuttling across the mudflats, and occasionally, jackals or even crocodiles. Reddit+1 The presence of these diverse species underscores the ecological importance of this protected area. Instagram+1

To truly appreciate the birdlife, visiting during the optimal times of early morning or late afternoon is key. These periods offer the best chances for sightings as birds are most active. Reddit+1 The sanctuary's design, with its boardwalks and watchtower, is intended to facilitate observation without disturbing the natural habitat. Reddit

Navigating Chorao Island and the Sanctuary Experience

Reaching Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary involves a scenic ferry ride from Ribandar, a charming town itself worth exploring. Instagram+1 The ferry is a crucial part of the journey, offering a glimpse of the Mandovi River and the island's tranquility. Instagram Once on Chorao Island, the sanctuary is accessible, though it's important to be aware of potential ongoing renovations that might affect pathways. Reddit

The sanctuary experience is centered around its natural beauty. The mangrove boardwalk provides an immersive walk through the dense forest, allowing visitors to feel connected to the environment. InstagramReddit For a more comprehensive view, the multi-tiered watchtower offers panoramic vistas of the sanctuary, ideal for spotting birds from different vantage points. Reddit Many visitors recommend hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the island's history and the sanctuary's ecology. Reddit

Boat rides are a highlight, offering a unique perspective from the water as you navigate the mangrove creeks. Instagram+1 These tours are particularly rewarding in the early morning when wildlife is most active. InstagramReddit While the sanctuary offers a serene escape, remember to check for any updates regarding maintenance or access before your visit to ensure a smooth experience. Reddit

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