5 Famous Bird Sanctuary in Rajasthan!is home to some of India’s most significant birdwatching destinations, thanks to its varied ecosystems ranging from wetlands to the Thar desert.
The most famous and internationally acclaimed bird sanctuary in the state is Keoladeo National Park (formerly Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary). This UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ramsar Wetland is a man-made mosaic of swamps, grasslands, and woodlands. It hosts over 370 bird species, including numerous migratory waterfowl like ducks, geese, and waders, and was historically a wintering ground for the critically endangered Siberian Crane. The best time to visit is from October to March.
Another important destination is Khichan Village in Jodhpur, globally recognized as the largest congregation site for the majestic Demoiselle Cranes (Kurja), which migrate from Central Asia.
For desert birdlife and the protection of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB), the vast Desert National Park (DNP) near Jaisalmer is essential.
Finally, Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary in Churu is famous for its Blackbuck population and is a vital area for migratory raptors like various Harriers and Eagles.
Would you like to know the best ways to reach Keoladeo National Park, or the peak season for Demoiselle Cranes at Khichan?
1. Keoladeo Ghana National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary)
A perfect place for an avid bird lover, also called as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a UNESCO declared world heritage site. On your visit to this huge national park, you will come across at least 360 species of birds. Geese, Ducks, Pelicans, Cranes, Eagles, Stints, Hawks, and Wagtails are the most found birds of this sanctuary. Bharatpur bird sanctuary is also home to various wildlife including Boar, Sambar, Nilgai, and Chital. One can also spot 15 species of snakes, 50 species of fish, 7 turtle species, 7 species of aquatic animals, 5 species of lizards, and 379 floral species. Keoladeo is a beautiful region located in the Indo-Gangetic Plains and is adorned with vivid varieties of microhabitats including dikes, trees, mounds, and submerged or emergent plants. So, if you are a wildlife or a nature lover then add Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in your travel list.
Visiting Time: 8 am to 5 pm
Entrance Fee: INR 50 for Indians and INR 400 for international tourists + INR 100 if you opt for rickshaw rides.
5 Famous Bird Sanctuary in Rajasthan!
2. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to some rare flora and species, this is a well-known tourist attraction in Rajasthan due to its colourful culture. The sanctuary was formerly a hunting reserve for the Bikaner Maharajas. It is now a popular destination for environmentalists and those keen in desert flora and fauna.
You can find many species here, including golden orioles, bulbuls, doves, and kingfishers, amongst other birds and animals.
Khichan is a village in Phalodi tehsil of Jodhpur district in Rajasthan. This village is also known as Demoiselle Crane Village. These birds migrate here usually from October to March. Around 20,000 cranes come here and build their temporary homes. These birds migrate from various regions including southwest Europe, the Black sea region, Poland, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan to escape the cold weather of those places.
Khichan Bird Sanctuary is a gorgeous place surrounded by lush greenery and rare species of birds. It is like a treat to the eyes. You can also take a safari ride for amazing experiences.
Let’s discuss some significant details about the sanctuary. Entry to the park is free and visiting at dawn will give you the best experience. You can visit anytime between October to February, to spot rare birds.
Located near Jaisalmer, the sanctuary is one of India’s largest national parks, encompassing 3,162 square kilometres. This nature bird sanctuary is known for its rich avifauna and is every bird-watcher and photographer’s paradise.
You can spot numerous bird species here, including laggar falcons, spotted eagles, buzzards, kestrels, sandgrouse, and great Indian bustards. You will also find a collection of fossilised animals and plants older than 100 million years.
Best time to visit: October to March
5. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1980, occupying an area of 288 sq km. It is located in Aravalli Ranges, Mount Abu. Spread across Guru Shikhar, the highest peak of Rajasthan, It is rich in flora and fauna. The forests Are thorn and evergreen forests. In 1980, it was declared a wildlife sanctuary.
It has 81 species of trees, 89 species of shrubs, 28 species of climbers, and 17 species of tuberous plants. Rare and endemic plants, a variety of orchids and bryophytes, and algae can be perceived here. The Southwest part of the forest is taken up by bamboo trees. Indian Leopard, Wild boar, Sloth bear, Indian Fox, and Grey langur are some faunas living here. This is the only place where Orchids can be noticed. Bryophytes and Algaes can also be caught here.
