Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature paradise based in the western state of Goa in India. This sprawling sanctuary abounds in its different scenic beauty spots, rich plant and animal varieties, and several adventurer activities outdoors. Located within the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is an ideal mixture between nature, adventure, and serenity.
A Sanctuary Named After Bhagwan Mahavir
This sanctuary is named after Bhagwan Mahavir, the 24th Jain Tirthankara. It is spread over about 240 square kilometers and includes rich biodiversity of the area, making it the oldest and largest wildlife sanctuary of this beautiful place called Goa. This sanctum has dense forests, wavy hills, chirping streams, and lovely waterfalls to form a beautiful background to entice visitors.
Variety of Flora and Fauna
The most important point regarding Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is its huge variety of both flora and fauna. There is a mix of different kinds of forests—the evergreen, the moist deciduous, and the semi-evergreen forests. Teak, bamboo, cashew, and eucalyptus trees dominate, harboring many animal species.
This sanctuary is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. There are several mammalian species, including the Indian bison, sloth bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, and wild boar. If you are lucky, then you can get a glimpse of the elusive leopard or the slender loris. Even bird watchers will have a lot to see as over 120 species of birds visit the sanctuary—an ornithologist’s delight, it is. Among the birds visiting this sanctuary are the Malabar pied hornbill, the paradise flycatcher, and Indian black woodpecker.
Activities on Offer
This sanctuary has loads of exciting activities. One can find nature trails and trekking routes to examine the scenic beauty at close range. One of the most beautiful waterfalls in India, the Dudhsagar Falls, is situated in this sanctuary; falling from more than 300 meters, the view of the cascading environs inspires the senses of the visitor.
It provides ample opportunity for bird watching, wildlife safaris, and even overnight camping. Walking or jeep safari inside this diverse ecosystem is full of thrills and offers views of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Historical and Cultural Significance
It has quite a lot of natural sanctioned sanctuary, along with some historical and cultural interest. Within its boundaries is an ancient Shiva temple, Tambdi Surla Temple, constructed during the 12th century. This temple has very intricate architecture and exquisite carvings, thus drawing a great deal of devotees and history buffs.
Visitor Amenities
This sanctuary also houses visitor facilities, including centres of information, guided tours, and nature interpretation centres. For a good experience, it would be advisable to plan a visit during the cooler months between October and March.
A Soul Sanctuary
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is a sanctuary not just for animals but also for the soul. The Aesthetic natural beauty, wide ranges of varieties of wildlife, and the serene atmosphere provide just the right relief from the chaos and hassle of city life. Be it the nature lover, the adventure enthusiast, or the spiritually minded, this sanctuary in Goa will surely have something or other to offer to one and all. Pack your bags, tie your walking shoes, and let the journey begin to discover and rejuvenate amidst nature in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park
