Do you like bird watching a lot? India is home to many colorful domestic as well as migratory birds. You can find more than 1200 bird species in the country including rare birds. The Indian bird sanctuaries also offer stunning views of natural beauty. Here is a list of some of the best bird sanctuaries in India that every bird watcher must see.
1. Chilka Lake Bird Sanctuary, Odisha:
Situated in Puri city of Odisha, Chilka lake is the Asia’s largest and the most beautiful brackish water lake. Thousands of migratory birds from different places like Aral Sea, the Caspian sea, Lake Baikal etc come here during winters. Flamingos, Geese and eagles are the birds which can be easily seen. This pear-shaped lake also provides breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, thus don’t miss it too.
Best time to see birds: October-March
2. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa:
Located on the Chorao island in Goa, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is visited by various types of local as well as migratory birds, thus a perfect destination for bird lovers and ornithologists. Peafowl, Western reef heron, Pelicans and Parrots are the most visible birds here. There is a bird watching tower from where you can spot not only birds but also wild animals such as marsh crocodiles, foxes and jackals.
Best time to see birds: October-March
3. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan:
Also called Keoladeo National Park, it is one of the most popular bird sanctuaries in the country. There are around 360 bird species in the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary sprawling across 29 square kilometers . Many endangered and exotic birds arrive here in winters, thus it is a must-visit place for bird watchers. The birds that you can see here are Flycatchers, wheatears, wagtails, pipits, cranes, ducks etc.
Best time to see birds: August-November
4. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat:
Spreading over an area of 120 sq km, it is one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary houses about 200 bird species. You can spot coots, brahminy ducks, white storks, spoonbills and many other birds here. Boating and horse riding facilities are also available, so you can enjoy that too besides bird watching.
Best time to see birds: November-February
5. Mayani Bird Sanctuary, Maharashtra:
Situated in Satara district of Maharashtra, Mayani bird sanctuary is a must-see place for bird lovers. You can see approximately 400 species of migratory birds in winters including flamingos from Siberia. Painted storks, kingfishers, coot and black ibis are some of the common birds found here.
Best time to see birds: November-January
6. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Haryana:
Over 200 migratory bird species can be seen in the Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary located in Gurugram, Haryana. You can also see birds came from Europe, Turkey and Afghanistan. Northern Shoveler, Yellow Wagtail, Common Greenshank and Black winged Stilt are some of the most visible birds in this sanctuary.
Best time to see birds: December-February
