To begin with, it’s an island; which means that it is protected by deep waters from most encroachers. But that doesn’t stop hundreds of feathered visitors who find it a convenient and beautiful enough place to make it their home.

This unique bird sanctuary in Goa is named after Salim Ali, legendary lover of birds, India’s most famous ornithologist; and why not? This is what a birdwatcher would call a paradise, the perfect haven for the winged species.

This integral part of any Goa tour also boasts of a non-winged variety of visitors. Travellers, who come from around the world to experience first hand the unlimited diversity of feathers and beaks.

Going to this sanctuary is also an experience in itself. The ferry from the Ribandar Ferry Wharf takes you across the Mandovi River into the island of Chorao; where of course the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is situated.

Plants: Strange as it may seem but one of the most important inhabitants of this sanctuary is its Mangrove trees. As any biologist will tell you, a Mangrove ecosystem is usually one of the most prolific. The Mangrove offers the birds their perches and nesting grounds are also home to hundreds of other animals.

Birds and Animals: Birds are the reason why this is so important among the Goa tourist attractions. If you have the time and patience you can spot as many as 400 different species here. Some of them are found the year around while some are migratory.

For those who want more, this sanctuary also plays home to the highly unusual mudskipper fish. Also watch out for the crocodiles, foxes and jackals.

Chorao Village: You will find the Chorao village mentioned in any Goa travel guide; and rightly so, because this quaint little hamlet is definitely worth a visit. Age old Portuguese styled houses, a sparkling white church, and a culture which seems untouched by the ravages of modern day civilisation.

The ideal way to discover the picturesque lanes and by-lanes of this village is by motorcycle, which you can hire locally.