Located in the middle of Goa’s vast and beautiful expanse, Chorao Island is designed to appeal to adventurers and lovers of nature. On most occasions, this place tends to be ignored by the typical traveller, and this should be discouraged since it holds a great combination of biodiversity, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. When you arrive at Chorao Island, you will be able to observe the island, whose mangrove forests are home to birds, which make their nests here; witness the tranquillity of Goan villages, which have preserved their traditional flavour and pace of life.
About Chorao Island
Chorao Island, also recognised as Ilha de Chorão, is a riverine island in the Mandovi River of Goa, India. Covering an area of about 3000 acres, this beautiful place is thirty-five minutes by boat ride from Ribandar, which is close to Panaji, the capital of the state of Goa.
Archaeological exploration reveals that the island was established during the 1500s as a centre of Christianity when Goa was under Portuguese control. Chorao Island has become famous for its ornithological importance, mainly because it hosts the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and tracts of mangroves.
Being an island, it has its climate, and the plants and animals that live on this island are in their natural habitat. While the area boasts reasonably unspoiled terrain, it differs significantly from the overdeveloped beaches and heavily frequented Goa tourist attractions, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in its pristine nature and local character.
Also Read: Wedding Venues In Goa
Places To Visit On Chorao Island
Although small, Chorao Island is big on tourist attractions that reveal its natural beauty and richness in terms of history. From wildlife sanctuaries to ancient churches, here are the top spots you shouldn’t miss during your visit:
1. Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Image Credit: Rajiv98761 for Wikimedia Commons
Since its inception in 1979, Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary has remained a popular tourist destination and is famous for its Flamingoes. This bird sanctuary is named after Chorao’s legendary bird-watching ambassador, Salim Ali, and is Chorao’s most prominent attraction. Spread across an area of 8 square kilometres; it is a perfect place for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts in general. While sailing through the many channels in a canoe, one is enclosed by mangrove bushlands, home to various wildlife. These bushlands also provide habitats to other species, such as mudskippers, fiddler crabs, and, on rare occasions, crocodiles.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
Entry Fee: ₹20 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners (boat ride charges extra)
Distance: Located on the western tip of Chorao Island
2. Church Of Our Lady Of Grace
Image Credit: Francome for Wikimedia Commons
Relive the moments of history as you turn back to the past and stand in front of the Church of Our Lady of Grace, one of the oldest churches in Goa. This architectural building was built in 1569 and fell under the colonial Portuguese regime on this island. The church’s outside and inside appearance and its quiet background make it ideal for tourists who want to explore the place’s architecture and history. It presents superb examples of restored altars and other religious relics. The church, of course, still conducts its services, and visitors can observe the spiritual practices of the local community.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily
Entry Fee: Free
Distance: About 2 km from the ferry point
Related Post: Famous Beaches In Goa
3. Chorao Chapel Of Our Lady Of Candelaria
The other religious point of interest is the Chorao Chapel of Our Lady of Candelaria, which will take you back in time. Initially constructed in the 16th century, this chapel is a fine specimen of the traditional Portuguese architecture of Chorao. Even though its design is much less complicated, it stands out in harmony with the ornate Church of Our Lady of Grace. The chapel’s relatively quiet location makes the building perfect for meditation. Religious artefacts and paintings that are well preserved are also exhibited inside. This place has the annual feast of Our Lady of Candelaria, which is held in February and is a colourful representation of the people’s culture and devotion.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily
Entry Fee: Free
Distance: About 2.5 km from the ferry point
4. Chorao Island Ferry Point
The starting point for your journey to Chorao Island is the ferry point, which is a tourist attraction. About an hour from Ribandar, the boat ride has beautiful scenery from the Mandovi River and its environs. When you are directly in front of the island, you will likely see coconut trees swaying and Goan-style houses. The island houses a few stores that offer soft drinks and other snacks that will significantly help once visitors are done with the island.
Timings: Ferries run from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free for pedestrians, nominal fee for vehicles
Distance: Starting point of your island adventure
Related Post: North Goa VS South Goa
5. Chorao Village
It is impossible to get bored when exploring the villages of Chorao Island. Stroll around the winding alleys flanked by multi-hued Portuguese architecture buildings, some older than a hundred years. The town has relaxed feel differs from the standard Goan life. One can go to a nearby café to taste Goan delicacies or visit the village market to see the number of vegetable vendors and local handicrafts. Please do not hesitate to initiate communication with the locals; they are warm and willing to share much about the island.
Timings: Best visited during daylight hours
Entry Fee: Free
Distance: Spread across the island
How To Reach Chorao Island
Getting to Chorao Island is in itself exciting. Here’s how you can get there
By Ferry: The easiest and most beautiful route to Chorao Island is by boat from Ribandar. Ferries operate 24/7 from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and it takes about 10 minutes to reach the other side.
From Panaji: To go to Ribandar, one must take a bus or taxi as the distance is 6 km from Panaji, and the ferry point is there. From there, take a ferry to Chorao Island.
From Goa Airport: The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport, which is about 30 km from the city centre. Hire a taxi and get to the Ribandar ferry point before proceeding to the island by ferry.
You May Also Like To Read: Places To Visit In Old Goa
Chorao Island is a perfect place for tourists who seek more than the sun and sand of Goa. Everything, starting with the biological diversity and ending with the history and culture, will make the trip unforgettable. Chorao Island is great for nature, history lovers, and those who want to rest in a quiet place. You must take advantage of this place on your next visit to Goa; it is a beautiful find. Don’t wait; go for a trip to Goa and let your soul be filled with the beauty of nature and the silence of the place, which is considered an ecological island.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source: Pexels
Frequently Asked Questions About Chorao Island
Is it advisable to visit Chorao Island from December to May.
Chorao Island is most favourable for visiting from October to March because of the favourable climate. This period is also suitable for bird watching since it is when migratory birds are expected to be around.
Is it possible to get accommodation at Chorao Island?
There are few options for staying on Chorao Island. However, there are some guest houses and homestays. Most tourists spend a night in Panaji, the nearest town, and then visit the island on a day’s excursion.
Can I drive to Chorao Island in my car?
Yes, you can take your car or bike on the ferry to Chorao Island. There are small charges for vehicles on the ferry.
How many hours does it take to go to Chorao Island?
Chorao Island only takes a little time to explore. One day is enough to visit all the tourist attractions. But suppose you wish to obtain all the advantages of the island and its atmosphere. In that case, spending 2-3 days there is better.
Can one visit Chorao Island alone?
Yes, Chorao Island is relatively safe for solo travellers. However, as always, one should follow general safety guidelines and be cautious, especially in areas that are not so crowded.
People Also Read:
Bay Of Islands New Guinea Island Malaysia Islands
Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.
