Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Protected wildlife area in North Goa District, India
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected forest area covering about 208 square kilometers within the Western Ghats mountains. It contains dense forests, waterfalls, and varied habitats spread across elevations near 800 meters.
The sanctuary was established on May 18, 1999, making Goa the first Indian state to fully protect its Western Ghats section within its boundaries. This milestone marked a major step forward for forest conservation in the region.
Local villages maintain sacred groves like Devachi rai in Copardem, where traditional religious practices guide how people protect and interact with the forest. These customs shape the community's relationship with nature today.
Rest houses near Valpoi and Keri offer basic lodging, while private eco-resorts at Chorla Ghat provide more comfortable options. Visitors should expect slippery trails and changing weather, especially during the rainy season.
The area is home to around 255 bird species, and Bengal tigers have recently been documented there. This rediscovery prompted discussions about designating it as a tiger reserve.
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