Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary hosts a rich variety of wildlife, including several endangered species. The sanctuary is home to Indian gaur, leopards, sloth bears, Indian giant squirrels, and various species of deer including sambar and barking deer. The bird life is equally diverse, with over 130 species recorded, including the Malabar pied hornbill and great Indian hornbill. The sanctuary also harbors numerous reptile species, including king cobras and monitor lizards.
The sanctuary boasts diverse vegetation types, primarily consisting of moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests. Notable plant species include teak, terminalia, bamboo, and various medicinal plants endemic to the Western Ghats. The forest canopy is multi-layered, with emergent trees reaching heights of up to 30 meters. The sanctuary is also home to numerous orchid species, wild mushrooms, and rare herbs that contribute to its botanical significance.
The sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats mountain range, characterized by undulating hills and valleys with elevations ranging from 200 to 800 meters above sea level. The terrain features lateritic soil formations typical of the Western Ghats, with numerous perennial streams and waterfalls cutting through the landscape. The Netravali River, a crucial water source in South Goa, originates within the sanctuary, creating a network of water bodies that support the local ecosystem.
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1999 to protect the rich biodiversity of Goa's Western Ghats region. The sanctuary derives its name from the Netravali village located within its boundaries. Historically, this area has been home to several indigenous communities who have lived in harmony with the forest for generations. The region played a significant role in Goa's mining history, but conservation efforts led to the area's protection status to preserve its unique ecosystem and wildlife.
Key attractions within the sanctuary include the spectacular Savari Falls, the sacred Gopinath Temple, and the Netravali Bubbling Lake, a unique geological phenomenon where bubbles continuously rise to the water's surface. The sanctuary offers several trekking trails, including the popular route to Mainapi Peak, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The area is also known for its traditional spice plantations and the opportunity to observe traditional tribal lifestyles in the villages within and around the sanctuary.
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary experiences a typical tropical monsoon climate characteristic of Goa. The sanctuary receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September, with annual precipitation averaging around 3000-4000mm. Summers (March to May) are hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 35°C, while winters (December to February) are mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C. The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is most favorable for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
India
15.1170°, 74.2170°
1999
211
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Western Ghats known for its rich biodiversity and waterfalls. The sanctuary is home to numerous endemic species and serves as an important watershed. It features dense tropical forests and is a significant habitat for the Indian giant squirrel.