Bharatpur, Rajasthan, India
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (also known as Keoladeo National Park) is one of India's most famous bird sanctuaries and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the town of Bharatpur in Rajasthan, it is an important haven for migratory birds, making it a significant ecological site for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Here's a detailed description of the sanctuary
Area : 1956 (as a bird sanctuary), upgraded to National Park status in 1982
UNESCO World Heritage Site : Inscribed in 1985 for its rich biodiversity and importance as a bird habitat.
Famous For : Hosting thousands of bird species, both migratory and resident.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is one of the most famous wetland reserves in India, with over 370 species of birds. It is particularly known for its incredible variety of migratory birds that visit during the winter season. In addition to birds, the sanctuary is home to a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and mammals.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, also known as Keoladeo National Park, is a renowned avian paradise located in Rajasthan, India. It is home to over 370 species of birds, including both resident and migratory species. During the winter months, the sanctuary becomes a major stopover for migratory birds from Central Asia, Siberia, and Europe, with species like the Siberian Crane, Bar-headed Goose, and various ducks and waders making it their temporary home. Resident birds such as the Painted Stork, Sarus Crane, Indian Peafowl, Egrets, Herons, and Kingfishers can be seen year-round. The park’s diverse habitats—wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands—support this incredible variety of birdlife, making it one of the most important birding destinations in the world.
The park also hosts animals such as nilgai (blue bull), sambar, jackals, wild boars, and small carnivores. Among reptiles, one can spot various types of turtles, snakes, and lizards.
The bird sanctuary is a year-round destination, though it is most famous during the winter months (from October to March), when migratory birds arrive. During this time, the park becomes a major attraction for bird watchers.
Winter (October to March) : This is the peak season when birds like Siberian cranes, flamingos, and various species of ducks and geese come to the sanctuary from regions as far as Siberia and Central Asia.
Summer (April to June) : While migratory birds leave, the resident bird species remain, though the heat can make it challenging to explore during the midday.
Monsoon (July to September) : The monsoon season brings a new influx of birdlife as the wetland ecosystem flourishes.
Water Bodies : The sanctuary is interspersed with several small lakes and seasonal floodplain areas that provide perfect habitats for waterfowl and aquatic plants..
Trees and Vegetation : There are numerous trees such as Babool, Tamarind, and Pipal, along with marsh plants like Cattails and Reeds..
Grasslands : The expansive grasslands are ideal for ground-nesting birds and large herbivores like Nilgai.
Aquatic Plants : Aquatic vegetation like water lilies, reeds, and lotus bloom in the wetland areas, attracting numerous species of waterfowl.
Trees : Keoladeo is also home to trees like Prosopis, Babul, and Acacia, which are a source of food for birds and other wildlife.
Grass : The grasslands host a variety of grasses, which are important for grazing animals like the Nilgai and for nesting ground birds.
The sanctuary originally started as a private duck shooting reserve for the Maharaja of Bharatpur in the 18th century. The maharajas maintained a series of water bodies and marshes to attract game birds. However, in 1956, it was declared a bird sanctuary by the Government of India, and over the years, its importance as a conservation site has grown immensely.
Keoladeo Temple : The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands as a prominent landmark within the sanctuary. The name "Keoladeo" is derived from the temple, which is a focal point for the area.
Mammals : In addition to birds, the sanctuary is also home to mammals like Nilgai (Blue Bull), Sambar Deer, and Wild Boar, which roam the park’s forests and grasslands.
Boating : Visitors can hire boats to explore the water bodies, offering a closer view of the birdlife.
Cycling : The park has well-maintained paths that allow visitors to cycle and observe birds at their leisure.
The park has faced challenges like water scarcity, poaching, and encroachment, but continuous conservation efforts have been underway. The Siberian Crane project has been one of the sanctuary's key achievements in preserving migratory species.
The local communities are also involved in conservation work, and eco-tourism is promoted to ensure that the sanctuary's beauty and biodiversity are protected.
Bird Watching : The sanctuary is renowned for bird watching and is a must-visit for bird lovers. Several guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region.
Photography : The sanctuary offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography, especially during the migration season.
Nature Walks : For a more intimate experience, nature walks with trained guides are available, allowing tourists to learn about the ecology and the species present in the park.
Cycling : Renting a bicycle is a popular way to explore the park's extensive trail system.
There are various accommodations available near the sanctuary, ranging from basic guest houses to luxury resorts. Some of the notable places include :
Winter (October to March) is the best time to visit for birdwatching, as this is when the migratory birds arrive in large numbers.
The sanctuary remains open throughout the year, though summer can be quite hot, making early mornings and evenings the best times to visit.
By Road : The sanctuary is easily accessible by road, with buses and taxis available from nearby cities like Delhi and Agra.
By Train : Bharatpur has a railway station with regular trains from Delhi, Jaipur, and other nearby cities.
By Air : The nearest major airport is in Agra, about 55 km away, which is well-connected by flights from major Indian cities.
