About Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a 208.5 sq km protected area in the Western Ghats of North Goa, near Valpoi in Sattari taluka. Established in 1999, it safeguards high biodiversity including Bengal tigers, leopards, and over 255 bird species. The sanctuary encompasses Goa's highest peaks and the Mhadei River basin. It is recognized as an International Bird Area and is being considered for Project Tiger status due to confirmed tiger presence.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect dense evergreen and moist deciduous forests within the Western Ghats landscape. The sanctuary offers trekking routes from Valpoi or Keri to peaks like Sonsogod and Vagheri, often culminating at waterfalls such as Shivaling or Vazra Sakla. White-water rafting on the Mhadei River is available during monsoon months. Wildlife sightings may include gaur, deer, civets, and various birds, though tigers and leopards are rarely seen. Guided tours and forest rest houses are available.
Key highlights
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Confirmed presence of Bengal tigers with photographic evidence recorded in 2019
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Over 255 bird species including globally threatened Nilgiri wood-pigeon and Malabar grey hornbill
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White-water rafting on Mhadei River with Class II and III rapids during monsoon season
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Trekking routes to Goa's highest peaks including Sonsogod (1027 m) and Vagheri Hills
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Home to all four of India's 'Big Four' venomous snakes: Indian krait, Russell's viper, saw-scaled viper, and spectacled cobra
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Multiple waterfalls including twin 143m Vazra Sakla falls and Shivaling Waterfall
History of Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
Established on 18 May 1999, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Goa's newer protected areas. Its creation made Goa the only Indian state to protect the entire Western Ghats section within its boundaries. The region contains sacred groves with ancient stone sculptures dating to Goa's archaeological heritage, reflecting traditional community conservation practices.
Culture & Context
The sanctuary area includes villages with sacred grove traditions known locally as Devachi rai, where communities historically protected forests in honor of local deities. Villages like Copardem and Nanoda maintain ancient nature worship traditions. These groves contain stone sculptures of Gajlaxmi, Mahishasurmardini, and Ravalnath that form part of Goa's cultural heritage.