Located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique protected area representing the coastal forest ecosystem of the Konkan region. Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1986, Phansad protects remnants of evergreen and semi-evergreen forests that once stretched along Maharashtra’s western coastline.
Situated between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, the sanctuary offers a rare blend of coastal biodiversity, forested hills, and tranquil nature trails.
Location & Landscape
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State: Maharashtra
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District: Raigad
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Region: Konkan Coast
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Nearby Towns: Alibaug, Murud, Roha
The sanctuary lies between the Savtali River and Madban River, with gentle hills, forest streams, and lateritic plateaus shaping its landscape.
Flora & Forest Type
Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is dominated by tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, unusual for Maharashtra. Key vegetation includes:
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Anjani
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Jambhul
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Mango
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Karvi
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Teak (patches)
The sanctuary is also rich in medicinal plants, orchids, and butterflies.
Wildlife of Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary
Mammals
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Leopard
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Sambar
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Barking Deer
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Indian Porcupine
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Wild Boar
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Indian Pangolin (rare)
Birdlife
Phansad is a birdwatcher’s delight with species such as:
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Malabar Whistling Thrush
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Indian Grey Hornbill
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Brown-headed Barbet
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Paradise Flycatcher
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White-bellied Sea Eagle
Butterflies & Reptiles
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Southern Birdwing
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Common Mormon
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Monitor Lizard
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Cobra
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Vine Snake
Tourism & Activities
Phansad is ideal for low-impact eco-tourism.
Things to Do
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🌿 Guided forest walks
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🦜 Birdwatching
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🦋 Butterfly spotting
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📸 Nature and macro photography
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🚶 Trekking to viewpoints
🎫 Entry permission is required from the Maharashtra Forest Department.
Best Time to Visit
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October to February: Best weather and wildlife activity
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March to May: Warm but suitable for short hikes
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June to September: Lush and scenic but limited access due to heavy rain
Nearby Attractions
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Alibaug Beach – Coastal getaway
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Murud-Janjira Fort – Historic sea fort
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Revdanda Beach & Fort
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Kashid Beach
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Roha Town – Cultural base
FAQ – Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary
Where is Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary located?
In Raigad district, Maharashtra, near Alibaug and Murud.
Is Phansad good for birdwatching?
Yes, it is one of Konkan’s best birding destinations.
Are tigers found in Phansad?
No, but leopards are present.
Is Phansad suitable for a day trip from Mumbai?
Yes, it’s approximately 140 km from Mumbai.
Are safaris available?
No jeep safaris; exploration is done on foot with guides.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What makes Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary unique?
Its coastal evergreen forests, rare in Maharashtra.
Is Phansad crowded?
No, it remains peaceful and less commercialized.
Which is the best season to visit Phansad?
Winter (October–February).
Can families visit Phansad?
Yes, especially nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Conclusion
Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is a quiet ecological treasure of Maharashtra’s Konkan coast. With its lush evergreen forests, coastal biodiversity, and proximity to the Arabian Sea, it offers a rare and refreshing wildlife experience. Phansad stands as a vital reminder of the importance of protecting coastal forest ecosystems for future generations.
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