INTRODUCTION
The Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary which was originally referred by the name Mollem Game Sanctuary is one of the largest wildlife preserve in Goa.It sprawls over an area of 240 square kilometers and got the status of a wildlife reserve in the year 1969.But however only in the year 1978 a limited portion of the main area of about 107 sq. km. was confirmed as the Mollem National Park.Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary noted for a unique geographical formations and scenic spots is of a major tourist attraction. Apart from this it is also known for its variety of flora and fauna along with the avian species. Adding to the feature of this sanctuary there are also other historically important places in and around this place. The tourists visiting this place can go for adventurous jeep safaris into the wildlife sanctuary.
ORIENTATION
 |
This sanctuary situated in Goa is at a distance of about 53 kilometers away from the state capital, Panaji and is oriented more towards the eastern side of the state in the vicinity of the Mollem village.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary remains open throughout the year and the ideal time to visit this place is either early in the morning or late in the evening.
PLACES OF INTERESTS
Flora
 |
The flora of the Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary comprises of mainly tropical evergreen forest, semi evergreen and moist deciduous forest.
The banks of the river and the terrains of higher altitudes are predominantly occupied by the evergreen type of forests.
Fauna
  |
The wildlife of the sanctuary includes deer, Indian Bison, monkeys, elephant, leopard, sloth bear, flying squirrel, Malayan Giant squirrel, porcupine, civet, cat, jungle fowl, tigers and a few black panthers.
Reptiles
 |
The reptile family inhabitants in the sanctuary includes King Cobra, snakes like python, Krait, Viper etc.
Avian Species
 |
There are at least more than 200 species of birds which includes both native and migratory birds.
Some of the common avian include Indian Black Woodpecker, the Malabar Pied Hornbill, Paradise Fly Catcher, Fairy Blue Bird, Drongo, Wag tails, Barbets, Great Indian Horn Bill,Kingfishers,Shrikes,Emerald Dove, Grey Jungle Fowl etc.
Dudhsagar Water Falls
 |
The Dudhsagar Water Falls is in proximity to the Mollem village and whose source is from Karnatka is supposed to be one of the highest water fall in the State of Goa which cascades from an altitude of about 200 mtr.
Because of the pure white colour of the waterfall is its name 'Dudhsagar'. This waterfall is now one of the major attraction of the tourists coming to this place.
Devil's Canyon
This place is actually called as "Devcharacho kond" which in Konkani means 'Devil's Canyon'. The Devil's Canyon is noted for its geological rock formation along with the river Khandepar which passes through the sanctuary and has cut across the basalt rock formation thus earning its dubious name.
Tambdi Surla
 |
The Tambdi Surla temple is situated at a distance of about 13kms from the Mollem village and was built by the Kadamba kings during the 13th Century.
The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Shiva where the entire temple is carved of black granite stone.
This temple is accessible by a good motor road.
EAT OUTSThough there are no big restaurants here there are small and decent places to eat in and around this area. You can find shops which sell snacks as well as seasonal fruit shops along the road. ACCOMMODATION1.Colonia Jose Menino Resort 2.Lemon Tree Amarante Beach Resort
3.Majorda Beach Resort 4.Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa 5.Nanutel Hotel 6.Willam's Beach resort 7.Silver Sands Beach Resort |
Travel Guide
Travel Information
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
HOW TO REACH
By Air
The nearest airport is Dabolim (80km).
By Trains
The nearest railway station is Colem (6 km). The Mormugao - Londa railway line passes through the area.
By Road
The National Highway NH-4A divides the Bhagwan Mahaveer sanctuary in two parts. Regular buses of the Kadamba Transport Corporation ply from Kadama bus station, Panaji, (53 km) to the sanctuary.