Home to more than 450 species, Goa is a wonderful place to embark on some birdwatching.
A rewarding destination for many holiday-makers, Goa's best-known characteristic is, for most, its golden, palm-backed bays. However, for those who choose to pay a visit, you'll quickly discover Goa's huge variety of activities beyond the beach, one of which is birdwatching.
Why go birdwatching in Goa?
The first benefit of birdwatching in Goa, is that it's easy to visit several popular birding sites during your stay. The entire state is only 3,702 km², and from Tiracol in the very north to Polem in the far south, Goa is less than 150km long – around a 3.5 hour drive. So, if you’re not having much luck in one location, chances are there's another fantastic birding site very nearby.
Above: Asian Fairy Bluebird
There are currently six conservation areas where you can head to explore the birdlife, including the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary in South Goa, and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in Central Goa. What's more, you might also get the opportunity to spot some very rare birds in Goa, including the Long-billed Vulture, Darter, Great Pied Hornbill and Indian Skimmer. Goa is also a fantastic spot for birders, as you'll find all kinds of terrain to explore. From beaches and streams through to grasslands and even mountains, the differing landscapes are part of what attracts the many species you can find, not just in Goa, but in the whole of India.
Above: Fisherman in the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Birds which are commonly sighted in Goa include the Striated Heron, the Crested Serpent Eagle, the Shikra and the Black-winged Stilt, but there are plenty more of the state's 450+ species which you’re sure to spot through your binoculars.
Above: Kingfisher
Birdwatching excursions
Whether you're a passionate twitcher, or want to try something different to your usual holiday activities, we've got some great new birdwatching excursions which you can add to your holiday in Goa. As they're both early morning starts which see you back to your hotel before lunchtime, you've still got the rest of the day to enjoy the sunshine and relax by the pool or on the beach. Find out more about birdwatching in Goa here.
Above: Vigors Sunbird
If you’re tempted to know more about a holiday in Goa, be sure to pay a visit to our Holiday Ideas page, where you'll find everything from beach inspired getaways through to India Tours.
