Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden treasure in the Indian state of Goa. With a total size of 105 square kilometres, this sanctuary is ideal for nature lovers and animal aficionados. It is one of the region's remaining intact and maintained wildlife areas. The sanctuary, which is part of the Western Ghats, is located 60 kilometres south of Panaji. Cotigao's forest has a mixture of deciduous and evergreen trees, including old giants such as Tectona Grandis, Terminalia Arjuna, Lagerstroemia Macrocarpa, and Bauhinia racemose.
Leopards, Bengal tigers, hyenas, sambar deer, Indian bison, wild boars, and Malabar giant squirrels live at the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary features around 200 kinds of birds, including the Indian Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Yellow-browed Bulbul, Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher, and Black-naped Monarch. The sanctuary also houses a few reptiles such as cobras and pythons.
The refuge features several hiking trails that lead you through beautiful woodland, streams, and rocky terrain. The Cotigao River, which flows through the forest and is a favourite site for a refreshing plunge, is another prominent feature in the sanctuary. The sanctuary's eco-tourism cottages are ideal for an overnight stay and provide an authentic experience of the forest. For first-time visitors, the forest department provides guided excursions, which are highly recommended.