Chorao Island Trip

Location:

Chorao Ferry Terminal

Duration:

1 hours

Frequency:

Saturday & Sunday

Select date and travellers

Booking Date

Check-In Time

Number of Travellers

Activity Cost

Number of ticket:

Adult Ticket Cost:

1

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5 Overview

Chorao Island, located in the Mandovi River near Panjim, Goa, is a tranquil destination known for its rich biodiversity, Portuguese-era heritage, and traditional Goan charm. The island’s highlight is the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers with its lush mangroves and diverse avian life. Visitors can enjoy guided nature and cultural trails, explore colonial churches, cycle through scenic villages, and savor authentic local cuisine. Accessible by a short ferry ride from Ribandar, Chorao offers a peaceful retreat ideal for nature lovers and cultural explorers, especially between October and March.

Highlights

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary – Mangrove-rich sanctuary ideal for birdwatching (cormorants, egrets, kingfishers).
_{Short ferry ride from Ribandar – Scenic and convenient access from Panjim.}
_{Nature and cultural trails – Guided tours explore Goan homes, farms, cuisine, and island history.}
_{Colonial-era churches – Visit historic sites like St. Bartholomew’s Church and Our Lady of Grace.}
_{Peaceful village life – Cycle or walk through paddy fields and interact with friendly locals.}
_{Authentic Goan food – Home-cooked meals, especially fresh seafood and traditional dishes.}
_{Best time to visit – October to March for pleasant weather and vibrant bird activity.}

Itineraries

8:00 AM – Depart from Panjim
Take the short scenic ferry ride from Ribandar to Chorao Island (ferry runs every few minutes).
8:30 AM – Visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Begin your day with a tranquil walk or boat ride (if tide allows) through the mangrove forests. Great for spotting birds like kingfishers, herons, and egrets.
10:00 AM – Breakfast at a local café or homestay
Try a light Goan breakfast with poi (Goan bread), chorizo, or bhaji-pao.
11:00 AM – Heritage and Village Walk
Explore the villages of Saude and Caraim with a local guide. Visit colonial-era churches like St. Bartholomew's and Our Lady of Grace. Appreciate Portuguese-influenced architecture and local legends.
1:00 PM – Traditional Goan lunch
Enjoy a home-cooked meal at a local family home or heritage homestay – think fish curry rice, kokum juice, and bebinca.
2:30 PM – Nature trail or cycling
Rent a bicycle or join a guided nature walk through the paddy fields and winding village roads. Optionally, visit a local farm.
4:00 PM – Relax and unwind
Sit by the river, enjoy a quiet moment with the view, or chat with locals at a small tea stall.
5:30 PM – Return ferry to Ribandar
Catch the sunset over the Mandovi River during your ride back to the mainland.