The small and beautiful Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary lies in Canacona taluka in south-eastern Goa. It is irrigated by the Talpona river. The Galjibaga river lines the south-eastern boundary of the park. The variety of flora in the sanctuary is a treat to the eyes of nature lovers. However, there are not many wildlife sightings here, as their numbers are very low.
Entry Fee Adult ₹20; Children ₹10 Timings 7.00am–5.30pm Vehicle Entry Two-wheelers ₹25; Cars ₹75; Mini-buses/ Vans ₹150
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
There is a 3-m-high watchtower at the Tulsimol watering hole, from where you can spot animals. You might see a few monkeys and wild boars and perhaps, a bison. Take the trail at Bhutpal, which also lies within the precincts, and climb the 18-m-tall ladder into a treetop shelter for a view of the surrounds. Bela lake is a 2.5-km-walk from the Hathipua Eco-tourism Complex.
WHERE TO STAY AND EAT
The forest department’s Hathipua Eco-tourism Complex has three Mini Cottages (Tel: 0832-2965601; Tariff: ₹800) – Bulbul, Robin and Koyal; two Bamboo Cottages (Tariff: ₹500) and one Peacock Cottage (Tariff: ₹1,500, with attached bath).
An FRH (Tel: 2641548; Tariff: ₹500 per person) at Poinguinim is mostly used by forest officers.