8 Places To Enjoy Birding In India

Do you have intentions of experiencing the Bird Sanctuary tour in India? The delightful melodies of birdsong form the most captivating aspect of India's wildlife sanctuaries. Renowned as one of the most explicit and enchanting destinations for diverse wildlife species, and an absolute haven for ornithologists, India's Bird Sanctuaries hold immense significance with the presence of 1250 bird species across various sanctuaries. These sanctuaries contribute significantly to the allure of wildlife tours.

Embarking on a birding tour to one or two of India's renowned Bird Sanctuaries allows nature enthusiasts and bird lovers to gather unforgettable experiences. By visiting these sanctuaries, tourists can witness the remarkable and praiseworthy presence of unique bird species, providing them with a marvelous and enduring opportunity. The list of the best places for birdwatching in India and the notable Indian bird sanctuaries mentioned below is sure to inspire you to plan your visit soon, equipped with binoculars, cameras, and maps.

# Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Bharatpur

Renowned as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary stands out as a premier birding destination in India, having been established nearly 250 years ago. It gained recognition as a protective sanctuary in 1971.

As a haven for ornithologists, the sanctuary provides an exciting chance to reside close to its natural wonders at well-designed hotels. Enthusiasts of avian life can discover excellent accommodations at various appealing resorts and lodges, including Bharatpur Forest Lodge, Chandra Mahal Haveli, Laxmi Vilas Palace, and The Bagh Resort.

# Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom

Known alternatively as Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Kottayam district, emerges as the ultimate haven for ornithologists amidst the picturesque Kerala backwaters, making it one of the premier birdwatching destinations in India.

Kumarakom village comprises a collection of small islands on Vembanad Lake, seamlessly integrated into the Kuttanad region. The area serves as a habitat for indigenous bird species like waterfowl, cuckoos, owls, egrets, herons, and water ducks. Additionally, it hosts migratory birds, including the Siberian Stork, flycatchers, larks, and teal.

# Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa

Located on the western edge of Chorao Island in Goa, the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary stands as a true haven for ornithologists, bird enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Encompassing an area of 1.8 square kilometers, it proudly holds the distinction of being the sole bird sanctuary in Goa.

The entire expanse of the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is adorned with mangroves, and its ecosystem is recognized as one of the most prolific. The sanctuary's popularity among birds stems from the fact that mangroves serve as habitats for a diverse array of insects and fish.

# Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka

Situated in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, the Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary emerges as a significant attraction for bird watchers. Today, it has transformed into a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature lovers alike.

Located in close proximity to the historic town of Srirangapatna, the sanctuary encompasses six islets along the banks of the Kaveri River. Among the notable bird species found in Karnataka are the Painted Stork, Indian Shag, Black-headed Ibis, and Stork-billed Kingfisher, among others.

# Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala

Situated along the Priyer River in Kerala, the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary stands as one of India's most frequented and esteemed bird sanctuaries. Encompassing approximately 253 bird species, it is surrounded by teak and sandalwood vegetation.

This sanctuary was meticulously planned by the renowned ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali. Commonly observed bird species within its boundaries include black-winged kites, bee-eaters, shrikes, sunbirds, and grey-headed fishing eagles.

# Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat

Recognized as the most extensive wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat, the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary also holds the distinction of being one of the largest in India. Situated approximately 64 kilometers from Ahmedabad, this sanctuary features a vast lake spanning 123 square kilometers. As the autumn season unfolds in India, a multitude of birds begins their migration to the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, where they stay through the spring and winter seasons.

# Nameri National Park, Assam

Encompassing a sprawling expanse of 200 square kilometers, Nameri National Park, situated at the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, holds the distinction of being the second Tiger Reserve in Assam. Regarded as one of the premier national parks in East India, Nameri serves as a sanctuary for numerous rare animals, including tigers, black bears, elephants, leopards, clouded leopards, deer, Indian wild dogs, jackals, Civet Caps, Capped Langurs, and Indian bison. Additionally, it is renowned for the Golden Masheer, turning the park into a wildlife lover's paradise.

# Jim Corbett National Park, Nainital

Initially founded as Hailey National Park, Jim Corbett National Park was established to commemorate the hunter who dealt with man-eating tigers in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand.

Recognized as one of India's premier national parks, Corbett National Park boasts 585 species of migratory and resident birds, with notable ones including the Red Jungle Fowl, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Blossom Headed Parakeet.

In addition to bird watching, visitors can partake in various activities like Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari, as well as explore the Corbett Museum.