6-Day Nature Itinerary in Goa, September 2023

1. Day 1: Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
   40 minutes (20 miles) from Goa International Airport

   Morning: Explore the wildlife sanctuary and spot leopards, deer, and birds.
   Afternoon: Take a dip in the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the tallest in India.
   Evening: Enjoy a bonfire and camping at the Mollem National Park.

2. Day 2: Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
   1 hour (35 miles) from Mollem National Park

   Morning: Spot local and migratory birds like the Malabar pied hornbill and the kingfisher.
   Afternoon: Take a boat tour of the mangroves and backwaters and spot crocodiles and otters.
   Evening: Enjoy some fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

3. Day 3: Mollem National Park
   1 hour (30 miles) from Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

   Morning: Go on a jeep safari through the park and spot black panthers, tigers, and bison.
   Afternoon: Take a dip in the Tambdi Surla Waterfalls and explore the 12th century Mahadev Temple.
   Evening: Enjoy a traditional Goan meal and music at a local bar.

4. Day 4: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour (20 miles) from Mollem National Park

   Morning: Explore the mini-zoo and botanical gardens.
   Afternoon: Go on a nature trail and spot the giant squirrel, mouse deer, and Malabar civet.
   Evening: Explore the nearby villages and markets.

5. Day 5: Dudhsagar Plantation
   1 hour (20 miles) from Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

   Morning: Go on a guided tour through the spice plantations and learn about the history of spice trade in India.
   Afternoon: Take a cooking class and learn how to cook Goan cuisine with fresh spices.
   Evening: Enjoy a relaxing massage with essential oils at the plantation spa.

6. Day 6: Butterfly Conservatory of Goa
   1 hour (30 miles) from Dudhsagar Plantation

   Morning: Explore the butterfly park and spot different species of butterflies and moths.
   Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic at the nearby Karmali Lake and spot different species of birds.
   Evening: Watch the sunset at the nearby beach.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to rare species of fauna like the flying lizard and the slender loris. Take a day trip to the beautiful beaches of Palolem and Agonda for some relaxation and water sports. Don't forget to try the local drink, Feni, made from cashews or coconuts.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary (6 hours, £10)
• Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (6 hours, £5)
• Mollem National Park (6 hours, £12)
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary (5 hours, £8)
• Dudhsagar Plantation (5 hours, £15)
• Butterfly Conservatory of Goa (4 hours, £6)
• Total Estimated Costs: £56