
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Chorao
A serene mangrove sanctuary on Chorao Island, offering incredible birdwatching opportunities and a peaceful escape into nature.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for bird activity

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Chorao
Best Time
Prime time for bird activity

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene mangrove sanctuary on Chorao Island, offering incredible birdwatching opportunities and a peaceful escape into nature.
"A paradise for birdwatchers with a serene mangrove forest and diverse wildlife."

🎯 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Boat Safari
Mandovi River
Embark on a boat ride through the mangroves to discover hidden avian life and potentially spot crocodiles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Bird Sightings
Access and Renovation Updates
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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:🚗 Ferry Access
Take the ferry from Ribandar; it's a short ride and affordable for pedestrians and vehicles.
🚶♀️ Explore the Mangrove Walk
Enjoy a peaceful 1 km walk through the stunning mangrove forest.
:walking:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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:🚗 Ferry Access
Take the ferry from Ribandar; it's a short ride and affordable for pedestrians and vehicles.
🚶♀️ Explore the Mangrove Walk
Enjoy a peaceful 1 km walk through the stunning mangrove forest.
:walking:🗣️ Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your experience with local stories and insights from a guide.
:bustsinsilhouette:What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
Some travelers suggest using Atal Setu to reach the area as well.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.
The ferry typically costs ₹10 for four-wheelers and is free for pedestrians.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
The sanctuary is generally open from 6 AM to 6 PM. Visiting early in the morning is highly recommended for birdwatching.
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.
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.
Information on specific discounts for students or groups is not widely available. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival.
🎫 🐦 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.
Yes, boat rides are available and highly recommended for exploring the mangrove creeks and spotting birds. They are usually offered in the early morning.
Boat ride prices can vary. One source mentions ₹1200 per boat trip for a group of 6, which comes to about ₹200 per head.
The sanctuary features a three-story watchtower offering different viewing levels, and a paved walkway through the mangroves.
Absolutely! The mangrove forest, diverse birdlife, and serene environment make it a fantastic spot for nature photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no significant dining facilities directly within the sanctuary. It's advisable to carry your own snacks and water.
You can find local eateries and restaurants in Ribandar or Panjim before or after your visit to the sanctuary.
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks. Please ensure you dispose of any waste responsibly.
While not directly adjacent, exploring Ribandar or Panjim will offer opportunities to try authentic Goan dishes.
Packing a picnic is a great idea, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring the sanctuary and its surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The mangrove boardwalk, the watchtower, and the boat safari routes offer excellent photographic opportunities. Early morning light is particularly beautiful.
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.
You can photograph a variety of resident and migratory birds, fiddler crabs, and potentially jackals and crocodiles.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing detailed shots of birds, especially if they are at a distance.
The golden hours, early morning and late afternoon, provide the best light for photography and are also when wildlife is most active.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich Avian Life of Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
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. The presence of these diverse species underscores the ecological importance of this protected area.
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. The sanctuary's design, with its boardwalks and watchtower, is intended to facilitate observation without disturbing the natural habitat.
Navigating Chorao Island and the Sanctuary Experience
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. For a more comprehensive view, the multi-tiered watchtower offers panoramic vistas of the sanctuary, ideal for spotting birds from different vantage points. Many visitors recommend hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the island's history and the sanctuary's ecology.
Boat rides are a highlight, offering a unique perspective from the water as you navigate the mangrove creeks. These tours are particularly rewarding in the early morning when wildlife is most active. 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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit