Passenger25479643330
★★2.0Wrote on 3 Dec 2023
Dissappinted
We arrived just before 7 am. We are keen birdwatchers so we're looking forward to our visit. We went to the entrance to pay, and found the guy behind the counter unfriendly and indifferent. Another guy came out of the office to offer us a boat ride for an hour and he wanted 2500 rupees! We said no thanks and entered the reserve. We saw hardly any birds which was very disappointing. There were information boards dotted around but everything was so tired.
Veritas28
★★★★4.0Wrote on 26 Nov 2023
Hidden gem and make sure to arrange a boat ride in advance
This is a hidden gem for those who enjoy birding and nature. During our two hour boat ride through the mangrove swamps with Mr. Uday, we saw over 20 species of birds. With more attention from forest officials, and draconian measures to prevent residents from dumping trash everywhere, this could become a more rewarding birding hotspot and a fitting tribute to Dr. Salim Ali, India’s great ornithologist. Here’s what I liked about our visit to this park: It is convenient to access as it is close to Panjim (and about 30 minutes away from the Baga beach area if you leave early around 6 AM). There are very frequent (and free) ferries that help you cross from Ribander to the island in which this sanctuary is located. I had previously made arrangements with Mr. Uday who met us at the ferry drop off point, and drove us a short distance to his boat. During the two-hour boat ride between 7 to 9 AM with him, we saw numerous birds - very large numbers of Black-headed ibis, Brahmini kites, and various egret species. The boat ride through the serene setting with the lush mangrove forests was very enjoyable. There is a lot of room for improvement though. The fees for entry to the park were not clearly listed and I was surprised to find that they do not accept cash payments for ticket entry. Unfortunately, my US credit card did not work there (although it was accepted for transactions everywhere else in Goa). Fortunately, I was able to pay Rs. 750 (for two adult tickets and a camera) to Mr. Uday, who then paid for my entry using his credit card. Also, I would’ve like to see brochures or signs that introduce tourists to the park, its ecosystem and birds. But worst of all is the trash. This sanctuary is in an island that is quite densely populated. As a result, there a piles of plastic bottles and trash bags everywhere. I was horrified to see people openly dumping trash into the back waters near the mangrove swamps. I’m assuming there are garbage collection facilities for residents on this island and therefore there is simply no excuse for this kind of behavior.
KeshavChakraborty
★★★★★5.0Wrote on 10 Jun 2023
Heaven for nature lovers
Its a 2 kms adventurous trail through the forest and mangroves to find different birds, insects and crabs. Specially the 500 meter bamboo bridge on black water gives you the exhilarating experience.
pinkfloyd13uk
★1.0Wrote on 4 Apr 2023
No boat service available
We traveled here from Candolim and took the ferry to the entrance. The ticket was 100 rupee to walk a path of about 1km through the mangrove, we were informed that no boats were running that day, no explanation as to why. Walking in the mangrove we saw nothing and as such the effort we had made to come here was a total waste of time. On returning to the ferry we actually saw more birds, kingfisher and raptors from the ferry and I am sure the trip would have been better had we been able to use a boat
familyslaughter
★★★★★5.0Wrote on 20 Mar 2023
Lovey way to spend a morning spotting birds, fresh air, beautiful mangroves
We went early and took a boat through the mangrove forest and saw many amazing birds. Any later than 9 and you won't see as much. To get there you have to go cross the river by ferry which runs frequently. There are a few stalls at the entrance and boardwalk through the forest with informative signs. It is well worth taking the boat ride as the boat man can spot a bird a mile off!
